I came upon a wonderful article on
transmedia storytelling, the idea of connecting a narrative
universe through a variety of channels. Like how the universe of
Tron was started in a movie (way back in '84), but then expanded to
games, another movie, and a TV show. All which share the same world
but different stories.
And then you have the .hack series. In
order to follow the chronological story you have to play video games,
read comics, and watch the TV shows.
But a main part of transmedia
storytelling is opening up the world to the fans, think fanfictionand parody YouTube videos and @ItstheDoctor and homemade butterbeer recipes.
So I was thinking, some time in the
future on my way to become a common name author I'd like to
incorporate this. Getting my story out to many people and
encouraging fan participation.
Easy for George Lucas and Star Wars,
not so much for self-published authors. Or even indie published
authors. Or probably most first time authors.
Dark, crushing cloud of impossibility
aside (I've been get rather good at ignoring it and walking through)
what do you guys think small time authors could do to include
transmedia in our self-run marketing schemes? Do you even think it's a good idea?
I think it's a great idea! Besides being fun and engaging, this is being done on all sorts of sites. It's not just for storytellers. When selling other types of products, it's called gamification, and is usually a simpler type of "game": share this content, receive a badge; buy this product, get your name mentioned; etc. So, you could do simple gamification, and work your way up to actual game. :)
ReplyDeleteI think it's a whole new way to reach people and if you can find interest, do it! Whether or not they buy your book, at least you'll be making impressions in someone's world :)
ReplyDeleteTrue, and while I'd love to be rolling in cash and status like JK Rowling, my favorite reviews have always been from those who say my work makes an impression. I'm to think I'd rather have 10 good fans than 100 people who just bought my book and put it aside.
DeleteI didn't know that that's what it's called. It's a really great way to connect with all different types of people!
ReplyDeleteThat's what I figured. I think it'd be easy to build a website around a book series.
Delete