The object of this research is the narrative tools used in the development of visual novels as a unique format of digital storytelling. The subject of analysis is the specific narrative techniques employed in the visual novel "Tiny Bunny," which allows for the achievement of the main objective of the study—identifying unique narrative devices that provide video games with emotional depth and artistic expressiveness comparable to traditional literary works. The research pays special attention to the analysis of nonlinear plot structures, including branching dialogue systems, multiple endings, and parallel storylines that form a multidimensional gameplay space. Furthermore, the role of audiovisual components in creating atmosphere and enhancing the narrative impact on the player is explored in detail. The analysis of these elements enables the determination of their functional significance within the specific game product and reveals general patterns in the construction of effective narratives in modern visual novels, contributing to the development of game storytelling theory. A structural analysis of narrative elements is combined with a semiotic approach to studying the interaction of verbal and audiovisual components. This entails a detailed playthrough of the game, including the documentation of gameplay mechanics, decision-making systems, and the variability of plot branches. A receptive approach is employed to evaluate the degree of the player’s immersion in the game’s story through the use of narrative tools. The scientific novelty of the research lies in the fact that the game "Tiny Bunny" becomes the subject of study in narratology for the first time. The author identifies both classical and unique narrative techniques for visual novels, expanding existing notions of the possibilities of this gaming genre. The research demonstrates the peculiarities of using gameplay mechanics in conjunction with narrative structures within the framework of psychological horror and player interaction. The results show that modern visual novels occupy a niche as a hybrid narrative form that combines a literary basis with cinematic expressiveness. What distinguishes visual novels from other forms of storytelling is the element of interactivity. "Tiny Bunny" combines typical visual novel text and audiovisual components (such as sprites, text boxes, and others) with unique features (character voice acting, interactive exploration of the game world). This approach enhances player engagement and distinguishes the game from other representatives of the genre.
Ekaterina Igorevna Skorokozova (Wed,) studied this question.