On Transdiegetic Sounds in Computer Games

Abstract

This article will identify and define the concept of transdiegetic sound space in computer games, and discuss the relationship of this space to action and events in the game. The point of departure for the article is based on discussions of the diegetic space in film theory, but the argument will be supported by writings on the role of sound for usability purposes in web applications and software, as well as views on games as a framing of a separate field of action and how computer games interpret this. Although sound is in focus in this article, it should be noted that transdiegeticity is relevant for a greater understanding of spatial relationships in computer games in general.