Designing Digital Uncanny: a practical and theoretical gamestudy

For my research presented in this thesis, I have taken a combined approach of theoretical analysis and informed practical application to further my understanding of digital uncanny. Specifically, I have looked at how particular use of aesthetics, sound, and gameplay in horror video games, could invite players to experience the uncanny. The uncanny is a phenomenon with a sensorial trigger, which is why the research is predominantly centred around visual and auditory stimuli. I have approached this research considering Jentsch and Freud's interpretation of the uncanny, alongside Homi Bhaba and Anthony Vidler's writings on the unhomely. Literary theory has also been a strong underlying theme with reference to the carnivalesque and a literary approach to aesthetics in games. I have tested my theories by creating a video game using the design elements discussed in the thesis. This video game was played by University of York Television, Film, Theatre, and Interactive Media undergraduate students. The participants were invited to answer a series of questions to determine if the design had evoked an emotional response. They were not aware of the intention to prompt stirrings of uncanny but were told that the aim was to discover the potential of digital design to create emotional response. The findings from this study have informed the written thesis and references to the work have been applied throughout.