From Digital to Analog: Disco Elysium’s Conflict Transformation Mechanisms  for Educational Larps

Minyue Wu

doi:10.33063/ijrp.vi19.1248

Authors

Minyue Wu University of Göttingen https://orcid.org/0009-0004-4711-4512

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.33063/ijrp.vi19.1248

Abstract

Abstract: This paper examines the narrative and mechanical elements of the role-playing video game Disco Elysium (ZA/UM 2019) through the lens of conflict transformation theory (Lederach 2003). Using a qualitative analysis of player-generated paratexts from Reddit communities alongside relevant game excerpts, the study explores two key elements. First, it explores the “character sheet” and internal monologue mechanism as a tool for self-reflection and personal conflict transformation. Second, it discusses the character arc of Cuno as a model for interpersonal conflict transformation. Findings suggest that Disco Elysium’s skill system,
narrative structure, and character design provide players with opportunities to thoughtfully navigate relationships, enhancing their competence in contextual analysis and critical self reflection. While the game offers meaningful narrative-dramatic agency, its predefined structure limits flexible and individualized player intervention in conflict resolution, highlighting a contrast with the transformational containers of live action role-playing games (larps) (Bowman and Baird 2022). Therefore, this study underscores the importance of larp, where participants exercise greater agency, and psychological effects such as bleed, providing recommendations for translating digital role-playing mechanisms into educational analog contexts for fostering
active engagement with conflict dynamics.

Keywords: conflict transformation, game mechanics, player reflection, Disco Elysium

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From Digital to Analog: Disco Elysium’s Conflict Transformation Mechanisms for Educational Larps

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