Multilinear Narrative

A multilinear narrative is the narrative structure within a game created by the game designers. The storyline essentially has multiple paths that the players can take but the overall impact that they have in a story is limited. The paths given are already pre-decided, but it solely depends on what choices the players make. Unlike linear games however, the game does have choices although limited, which affect the endings you may receive in the game. A multilinear narrative contains the similar restrictions as to linear narrative, although the players are given the ability to choose which path they would like to proceed on.

A prime example of games with a multilinear narrative are the dating sims genre. You are given a set amount of potential partners, in which you chose to be with one of them. If the game designer deems it to fit, then you may potentially have bad or good endings for each potential partner.

Quick Summary


 * A limited number of pathways
 * Players have pre predetermined options which they select
 * Different pathways have different outcomes

Examples:


Mystic Messenger is a dating sims with a multilinear Narrative. You play as a female protagonist who goes through a series of meeting different potential partners. You proceed the game with the attempt of choosing which partner you would like to have a good ending with. Each partner does have a bad ending, and you build up their affections by picking the right choices. The game has a good and bad ending for each partner.