The Rebellion by Apanuba Puhama

Unleash the Rebellion: Shape the Destiny of Earth in an Infinite Saga of Mystical Alliances! // For CRWR 312 - Interactive Storytelling 

12-year-old Althea’s journey in ‘The Rebellion’ explores the power of collaboration and resistance against oppression. It delves into the idea that unity between humans, mystical beasts, and the interactivity of player choices can lead to the overthrow of alien overlords and the reclamation of freedom for Earth. The piece aims to be received as an immersive and participatory experience, challenging players to consider the consequences of their choices and appreciate the agency they have in shaping the narrative.

Keeping my craft of play in mind, I approached storytelling through the lens of interactive storytelling - a form that deviates from the constraints of traditional non-linear storytelling. Interactive storytelling demands active participation from the audience, transforming them into co-authors who shape the narrative's trajectory through a series of choices and decisions. Interactivity plays a central role in these thematic arguments by granting agency to players. Through their choices, players actively contribute to the rebellion's strategy, alliances, and ultimate outcome. The game becomes a reflection of collective storytelling, emphasizing that true liberation emerges not from predetermined paths but from the dynamic collaboration between the audience and the narrative, echoing the principles of an infinite game.

Similar to a majority of the interactive storytelling we explored throughout the term like Wanderhome and Bandersnatch, the expansive nature of this piece allows for an array of choices and branches. Although not necessarily endless due to the limitations of time, expertise (or lack thereof), and other constraints, I believe the choices and structure still exemplify the magic of alternative, ‘infinite’ forms of storytelling. This concept draws inspiration from the notion that interactive storytelling enables a type of story progression through player participation that transcends the limitations of traditional non-linear storytelling.

Microscope also served as a significant influence by designating a game without a definite ending. ‘The Rebellion’ is set in the world Jia Hu, Diana Zhang, Ryan Lao and I developed together during a gameplay of Microscope. The work we did together to build this fascinating setting filled with super cool and captivating elements like robots, alien invasions, and mystical beasts served as a significant source of inspiration for Althea's journey.