Communications in Humanities Research ISSN: 2753-7072
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Research Article

Exploring Media Mix in Transmedia Storytelling: A Case Study on ‘Cyberpunk 2077’ and ‘Cyberpunk: Edgerunners’

Nuozhou ChenWenzhou Business College Jiaqi LiMacau University of Science and Technology*

* Corresponding author: [email protected]

Abstract

The research investigates the combined role of video games and Japanese anime in transmedia storytelling. Taking “Cyberpunk 2077” and its anime adaptation “Cyberpunk: Edgerunners” as focal points, the study delves into the unique narrative experience this media pairing bestows upon the storytelling universe and its audience. Rather than adhering to traditional linear narratives, this amalgamation furnishes an unstructured, symbol-laden storytelling odyssey. The paper introduces and scrutinizes the notion of “media convergence”. It is noted that through the integration of Japanese manga and video game elements, “Cyberpunk 2077” witnessed a resurgence in sales and acclaim. Concurrently, “Cyberpunk: Edgerunners” influenced the game with its pronounced symbolic essence, hinting at an emergent lean towards postmodernism in modern media production.

Keywords: transmedia storytelling; media mix; Cyberpunk 2077; video game; post-modernism
Published: December 7, 2023
DOI: 10.54254/2753-7064/21/20231421
Volume: CHR Vol.21
pp. 78-84
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