The Role of Digital Narratives in Shaping Modern Storytelling: Analyzing Web Series and Interactive Fiction

Abstract

This study explores the role of digital narratives in shaping modern storytelling, with a particular focus on web series and interactive fiction. As digital media platforms become increasingly prominent, traditional storytelling methods are evolving to incorporate interactive and multimedia elements that engage audiences in new ways. This research examines how web series, as serialized digital content, and interactive fiction, which allows audience participation in the narrative, are redefining narrative structures, character development, and audience engagement. Through a critical analysis of selected web series and interactive fiction, the study investigates the techniques used to create immersive experiences and how these formats influence viewers' and readers' perceptions of storytelling. The research also considers the implications of these digital narratives on the broader landscape of literature and media, questioning whether they represent a fundamental shift in how stories are told and consumed in the digital age. The findings suggest that digital narratives are not only transforming storytelling but are also challenging traditional boundaries between creator and audience, leading to more collaborative and dynamic forms of narrative expression. This study contributes to the understanding of contemporary storytelling practices and their impact on cultural production in the digital era.