Speaking Symbols : A semiotic analysis of the Smart Ping system in League of Legends

Abstract:

This thesis brings attention to communication systems in games and how their development has stagnated. The focus is directed towards visual communication and the question of “Can the Smart Ping system in League of Legends suggest visual communication as a viable solution for in-game communication in multiplayer games, according to the semiotic model of Roland Barthes? ” is presented. Roland Barthes’ two order of signification model is then used to perform an analysis of the visual communication system called Smart Ping in the game League of Legends. The findings suggests that visual systems can be a viable solution as they provide visual techniques in design, tactic use for players while being effective to execute, helps removing language barrier problems and can use cultural aspects to an advantage in design when creating the system, making it easier for players to understand the message created. In-game multiplayer communication, is a vital part of how a game succeeds or falters when providing tools for players to communicate; as it is one of the main areas that creates frustration for the players. An aspect of this importance is that as frustration builds up, the flaws of design are found and questioned, and if not answered, damages the community due to the consequences of not solving the issues within the game. Therefore it is important that designers do not neglect the issues related to the current systems, and instead work to find new solutions, because if they do not, it damages the relationship between consumers and developers. This topic is discussed as frustration for players also bring toxicity into the community of games. To finalize the thesis suggests an approach in connection to visual communication systems and emphasizes experimentation in game design as an important part of development; while as a developer staying open towards feedback helps, as it strengthens the community and can provide new solutions from unexpected sources.