2: experimenting hypermedia in digital comics

Abstract

This article aims at exploring the relation between narration, interactivity and visual representation in digital comics. The article tries to show the interdependency relation established between interactivity and narration, as seen in narrative design; the possibilities for interactive mecanics to be materialized in interface design; and the strategies of resource integration specific of other media to the comics system. My argumentation is based on the analysis of 2 (www.2-bd.fr), a hypermediatic comics which creation is the basis of my PhD project of research and creation. The examples I quote show how narration and interaction work hand in hand to create involvement, rereading and changes in the motivations of the readactor’s choice; how the design of objects that are both narrative and interactive support immersion and empathy; and the compatibility of images—fixated and in movement—with the control of the rhythm of reading and the uniqueness of the interactive reading experience.