Unreliable narrator in video games

This thesis explores in depth the use of the concept of unreliable narrators in video games. It aims to understand how unreliable narrators are utilised, the characteristics of narrators, the disclosure of unreliable narrators, and the possible effects of unreliable narrators on interactivity and game endings. Within the scope of the research, Bastion, Braid, Call of Juarez: Gunslinger, Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice and Portal, which have quite different characteristics from each other, were examined and analysed with the close reading technique and the results were compared with each other. This research reveals that the use of unreliable narrators in video games is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon. The games analyzed show that the unreliable narrator is integrated with game design, gameplay, visual and auditory elements. As a result, it is revealed that the unreliable narrator is used as a complex narrative technique in video games as in literature and cinema. It also provides comprehensive information on how the unreliable narrator in games contributes to game design and the communication between the designer and the player. The thesis offers a new perspective on narrative in the field of game studies and helps us to better understand the power and structures of the medium, which will lead to the design of even more quality and innovative products in the future.