Case Analysis of Collectible Mobile Game Storytelling Utilizing Multiverse: Through ‘Zaira’ in “”

Abstract

This paper explores how multiverse storytelling is applied in collectible mobile games, particularly in otaku culture games, and how it accentuates character narratives. Multiverse storytelling involves adopting a multiverse setting or revealing possibilities in different universes during the narrative development process. It enhances immersion by presenting diverse aspects of characters to the players. Due to its emphasis on characters, multiverse storytelling is actively utilized in otaku games. However, despite the expanding scale of otaku games globally, research on multiverse storytelling in this gaming genre is still lacking. The paper first examines the concept of multiverse and the characteristics of otaku content games. Subsequently, it analyzes the character “Zaira” from the otaku game “Lord of Heroes” using the “Character-Centric Storytelling Analysis Methodology.” The study then elucidates how multiverse storytelling varies and accentuates characters. Finally, it provides considerations for employing multiverse storytelling effectively.