I would argue that all games have a story. Some have a scripted narrative–which, in the medium of video games, gives the player their own immersive role in the story–while other games give you the tools to create your own story as you play. You face conflicts and use your abilities and the resources around you to overcome them, ideally resulting in a satisfying progression throughout your playtime.
I asked ChatGPT to give me a narrative backstory of Tetris relating to oppression. You’re welcome:
In the realm of Tetris, each distinctive piece represents a fighter in a symbolic battle against oppression, embodying resilience and unity:
L-Block (Lenny): Lenny is the ingenious rebel, always finding clever ways to subvert the oppressor’s plans. His ability to fit into tight spots and support others symbolizes the fight against constraints and the power of innovative thinking.
J-Block (Jolene): Jolene represents the underestimated resistance. Often overlooked, her strength lies in her subtle yet impactful actions. She symbolizes the quiet but fierce fight against oppression, proving that every action, no matter how small, counts.
I-Block (Ivan): Ivan stands tall as the beacon of hope and solidarity. He represents the unwavering spirit of the oppressed, a reminder that standing firm and united can disrupt the oppressor’s designs.
O-Block (Olivia): Olivia embodies unity and cooperation. Her simple form represents the power of solidarity, showing how coming together can create an unbreakable force against tyranny.
S-Block (Sam): Sam is the symbol of unconventional resistance. His unique approach represents the innovative strategies used to outmaneuver oppressors, celebrating the creativity and adaptability of those fighting for freedom.
Z-Block (Zara): Zara, like Sam, challenges the status quo. She embodies the courage to be different and the strength found in diversity, essential in the struggle against a monolithic oppressor.
T-Block (Theo): Theo is the mastermind of the resistance, his versatile nature representing the strategic planning needed to overcome oppression. He signifies the importance of adaptability and foresight in the fight for liberation.
In this narrative of Tetris, the game becomes a metaphor for resistance against oppression. Each piece, with its unique qualities, plays a crucial role in the larger strategy of defying and dismantling oppressive structures. Their world is a constantly shifting battlefield where unity, creativity, and resilience are key to surviving and triumphing over tyranny.
Sure. The premise is that blocks are falling and can’t be allowed to reach a certain height. There is drama in knowing that, no matter what, it will eventually reach that height. You’re given the tools to fend off the inevitable for as long as you can. There’s conflict, resolution, and the plot details are determined both by the decisions you make and the order in which the game delivers the blocks to you. You are the protagonist, the computer is the antagonist. There’s a beginning, middle, and end to every game. It’s as reductive as stories get, but it’s a story.
I think I disagree that all games have a story because there are a lot of games that are closer to sports than interactive stories. Mostly multiplayer games like fps’s and rocket League, but also a lot of single player driving games like mudrunner or any of the rally games.
Most analogue games fall in the sports category too imo. There’s no story to poker, and you really shouldn’t overthink the lore of chess.
I would argue that all games have a story. Some have a scripted narrative–which, in the medium of video games, gives the player their own immersive role in the story–while other games give you the tools to create your own story as you play. You face conflicts and use your abilities and the resources around you to overcome them, ideally resulting in a satisfying progression throughout your playtime.
Both are cool for different reasons.
Tetris has story?
It’s a terrible tale of oppression if you read between the blocks.
I asked ChatGPT to give me a narrative backstory of Tetris relating to oppression. You’re welcome:
In the realm of Tetris, each distinctive piece represents a fighter in a symbolic battle against oppression, embodying resilience and unity:
L-Block (Lenny): Lenny is the ingenious rebel, always finding clever ways to subvert the oppressor’s plans. His ability to fit into tight spots and support others symbolizes the fight against constraints and the power of innovative thinking.
J-Block (Jolene): Jolene represents the underestimated resistance. Often overlooked, her strength lies in her subtle yet impactful actions. She symbolizes the quiet but fierce fight against oppression, proving that every action, no matter how small, counts.
I-Block (Ivan): Ivan stands tall as the beacon of hope and solidarity. He represents the unwavering spirit of the oppressed, a reminder that standing firm and united can disrupt the oppressor’s designs.
O-Block (Olivia): Olivia embodies unity and cooperation. Her simple form represents the power of solidarity, showing how coming together can create an unbreakable force against tyranny.
S-Block (Sam): Sam is the symbol of unconventional resistance. His unique approach represents the innovative strategies used to outmaneuver oppressors, celebrating the creativity and adaptability of those fighting for freedom.
Z-Block (Zara): Zara, like Sam, challenges the status quo. She embodies the courage to be different and the strength found in diversity, essential in the struggle against a monolithic oppressor.
T-Block (Theo): Theo is the mastermind of the resistance, his versatile nature representing the strategic planning needed to overcome oppression. He signifies the importance of adaptability and foresight in the fight for liberation.
In this narrative of Tetris, the game becomes a metaphor for resistance against oppression. Each piece, with its unique qualities, plays a crucial role in the larger strategy of defying and dismantling oppressive structures. Their world is a constantly shifting battlefield where unity, creativity, and resilience are key to surviving and triumphing over tyranny.
Ivan 100% Tetrises himself to save the others that have yet to fall. It’s just the kind of block he is.
Sure. The premise is that blocks are falling and can’t be allowed to reach a certain height. There is drama in knowing that, no matter what, it will eventually reach that height. You’re given the tools to fend off the inevitable for as long as you can. There’s conflict, resolution, and the plot details are determined both by the decisions you make and the order in which the game delivers the blocks to you. You are the protagonist, the computer is the antagonist. There’s a beginning, middle, and end to every game. It’s as reductive as stories get, but it’s a story.
I, I like the way you think.
I stand corrected. :)
The story of Tetris is the story of the entire history of Russia.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hWTFG3J1CP8
Enjoy :)
I think I disagree that all games have a story because there are a lot of games that are closer to sports than interactive stories. Mostly multiplayer games like fps’s and rocket League, but also a lot of single player driving games like mudrunner or any of the rally games.
Most analogue games fall in the sports category too imo. There’s no story to poker, and you really shouldn’t overthink the lore of chess.
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