Game Music

Non-verbal Storytelling: A Study on Wordless Narrative in Independent Games

The research topic “Non-verbal storytelling" refers to a video game with no dialogue or text, driven solely by visuals, sound, and other non-verbal forms allowing players to feel and empathize with the game's inherent emotions. The story is about Dylia. Dylia grows up craving love from her strict, emotionally distant mother, whose rare affection leaves a lasting imprint. As Dylia matures, she struggles under control and unmet expectations, ultimately leaving home and cutting contact to protect herself. Years later, she returns when her mother is ill, hoping for accountability, but finds only partial regret, not true reconciliation. Lydia ultimately chooses independence, accepting the pain of unresolved trauma while moving forward to define her own life.

The music was composed by Niklas Rönnberg, as a musical background to support the story in the game. The game design is a master's thesis by Dingye "Davy" Li at Linköping University exploring game design and storytelling.

Opening
The opening is brief, slightly subdued, and melancholic... The harmonica is played by Davy and the harmonica sound is a recurring symbol throughout the game.

Chapter 1
Chapter 1 has a subdued, melancholic atmosphere. The player is introduced to the game's mechanics while gradually exploring the world and its narrative. The storyline unfolds slowly, carrying a sombre mood that gently deepens into quiet melancholy.

Chapter 2
Chapter 2 introduces a more positive and energetic tone. The game character meets a friend—an unexpected and somewhat mystical presence—who brings warmth and companionship. This encounter lifts the character's mood and supports the player in completing the chapter.

Chapter 3 part 1
Chapter 3, part 1 is a dramatic descent through an emotional landslide in a dark and unfriendly and unfamiliar environment.

Chapter 3 part 2
Chapter 3 part 2 is where the landslide and the fall comes to an end with a sad, mournful, and desolate feeling.

Chapter 4
Chapter 4 starts with irritation and ends with reconciliation.

Ending
The ending is short and reflects on long-gone pain that cannot be healed, yet the new, beautiful life ahead is still there - worth exploring. The harmonica is played by Davy and the harmonica sound is a recurring symbol throughout the game.