In the first week of this unit, the course introduced the overall framework of Design for Animation, Narrative Structures and Film Language. The lectures emphasized that animation, games and moving image should not be understood purely as entertainment products, but as cultural forms capable of conveying meaning, emotion and ideology. This perspective immediately shaped my approach to the unit, as it encouraged me to think critically about how design decisions influence audience or player experience.
At this early stage, my research interest was still broad. I was particularly drawn to the idea that interactive media, especially games, can influence emotional states and interpersonal relationships. I began to consider how collaboration, narrative and visual design might contribute to emotional engagement rather than focusing solely on technical or aesthetic aspects.
This week marked the beginning of my research journey. I started exploring the idea that emotional experience in games is not accidental, but designed. This initial reflection laid the foundation for my later focus on cooperative games and emotional healing, which gradually became the central theme of my research.