Interactive Fiction
Bubble
Skill
Interactive Fiction (IF) is a creative community focused on crafting and experiencing digital stories where players shape the narrative...Show more
Interactive Fiction
Bubble
Skill
Interactive Fiction (IF) is a creative community focused on crafting and experiencing digital stories where players shape the narrative through typed input or choices. This group thrives on exploring new forms of storytelling driven by interactivity, branching paths, and the unique affordances of text.
Statistics
Estimated Global Reach
75K
Popularity
Low
Regional Hotspot
Worldwide
General Q&A
Interactive Fiction (IF) blends storytelling and player agency, letting people experience and shape narratives through text-based gameplay driven by commands or choices.
Community Q&A
Interactive Fiction (IF) blends storytelling and player agency, letting people experience and shape narratives through text-based gameplay driven by commands or choices.
Community bonds form through events like IFComp and Spring Thing, active discussion forums, collaborative beta-testing, and sharing resources around authoring tools.
Community Q&A
Summary
Key Findings
Parser Pride
Identity MarkersInsiders view mastering parser commands ('examine', 'inventory') as a rite of passage, valuing deep command fluency that outsiders often overlook as mere technical trivia.
Beta Rituals
Community DynamicsBeta-testing is communal and ritualistic, with members exchanging detailed feedback through established etiquette, creating trust and a shared sense of responsibility for narrative quality.
Format Debates
Social NormsThe community holds passionate but respectful debates over parser-based vs choice-based IF, shaping group identity and influencing design norms.
Legacy Vocabulary
Insider PerspectiveTerms like 'XYZZY' serve as insider shibboleths evoking shared history and bonding members, signaling deep immersion beyond simply playing the games.
Sub Groups
Parser IF Enthusiasts
Fans and creators focused on traditional text parser-based interactive fiction.
Choice-based IF Creators
Community centered on Twine, ChoiceScript, and other choice-driven IF tools.
Academic & Critical IF Community
Researchers and critics analyzing IF as a literary and cultural form.
IF Game Jams & Competitions
Groups organizing and participating in events like IFComp and themed writing jams.
Local IF Meetups
Regional groups meeting in person for writing, playtesting, and discussion.
Statistics and Demographics
Platform Distribution
1 / 3
Niche Forums
25%Dedicated interactive fiction forums are central hubs for discussion, sharing works, and community events.
Discussion Forumsonline
Discord
20%Many IF communities run active Discord servers for real-time discussion, collaboration, and playtesting.
Reddit
15%Subreddits like r/interactivefiction host vibrant discussions, recommendations, and community news.
Gender & Age Distribution
Ideological & Social Divides
Community Development
Discover Similar Bubbles
Insider Knowledge
Terminology
Greeting Salutations
Example Conversation
Insider
Have you tried typing XYZZY today?
Outsider
No, what’s that?
Insider
It's a classic magic word from an old IF game that teleport you around — saying it shows you're in the know about interactive fiction history.
Outsider
Oh cool, like a secret code for fans!
Cultural Context
Using XYZZY as a greeting is an homage to IF's origins, signaling shared insider knowledge and camaraderie.
Inside Jokes
Typing 'XYZZY' in unrelated software or chats as a secret handshake
Because XYZZY is a magic teleport command in classic IF, saying it signals to insiders shared knowledge and a wink to the community’s roots.
'I don't see that here'
A common parser response when the player tries to interact with something that doesn't exist; it's often humorously quoted among players to reference the sometimes frustrating parser limitations.
Facts & Sayings
„XYZZY“
A legendary magic word from the early text adventure game Adventure, used by insiders as an easter egg or to signify a shared heritage in classic interactive fiction.
„Examine (or x)“
A fundamental parser command used to inspect objects in the game world; mastery signals familiarity with traditional parser-based IF.
„IFComp“
Short for Interactive Fiction Competition, an annual community event where new games are submitted and judged, signaling participation in core IF culture.
„Glulx vs Z-machine“
Refers to two popular virtual machines for running IF games; mentioning them indicates technical insight into IF development.
Unwritten Rules
Always provide detailed beta-test feedback respectfully.
The community values constructive critique that helps authors improve games without harshness, maintaining a supportive environment.
Credit original authors and sources when referencing classic IF elements.
Respecting the history and creators preserves cultural heritage and honors contributions.
Don't spoil puzzle solutions when discussing games publicly without warnings.
Preserving player experience is important; insider etiquette demands spoiler warnings to respect newcomers.
Fictional Portraits
1 / 3
Emily, 27
Game DesignerfemaleEmily is a narrative-focused game designer who has recently joined the Interactive Fiction community to experiment with text-driven branching storylines for indie games.
CreativityPlayer agencyNarrative depth
Motivations
- Explore innovative storytelling techniques
- Engage with a community passionate about narrative design
- Get feedback on her interactive stories
Challenges
- Balancing complex branching plots with meaningful player choices
- Understanding technical constraints of IF tools
- Gaining visibility amid a niche, scattered community
Platforms
Discord servers for IF writersReddit r/interactivefictionLocal game dev meetups
branching narrativesparser-based gameschoice nodes
Insights & Background
Historical Timeline
Main Subjects
1 / 3
Works
1 / 3
First Steps & Resources
Get-Started Steps
Time to basics: 2-4 weeks
1
Play Acclaimed IF Games
3-5 hoursBasic
Summary: Experience several well-regarded interactive fiction titles to understand formats and storytelling styles.
Details: Begin by immersing yourself in a variety of highly regarded interactive fiction works. Choose games that represent different eras and styles—parser-based classics, choice-based narratives, and recent innovations. This hands-on exploration helps you grasp the diversity of IF, from puzzle-heavy adventures to emotionally driven stories. Take notes on what you enjoy, what confuses you, and how different interfaces work. Common beginner challenges include feeling overwhelmed by parser commands or missing narrative branches. Overcome this by reading in-game help, walkthroughs, and community hints. This step is crucial for building foundational literacy in IF conventions and understanding what makes interactive stories engaging. Evaluate your progress by reflecting on your enjoyment, ability to navigate stories, and recognition of different IF structures.
2
Join IF Community Spaces
1-2 hoursBasic
Summary: Register and participate in online forums or chat groups dedicated to interactive fiction discussion and support.
Details: Engaging with the IF community is vital for learning, support, and inspiration. Find active forums, Discord servers, or mailing lists where IF enthusiasts gather. Introduce yourself, read beginner threads, and ask questions about games or tools. Lurking is fine at first, but try to participate by commenting on discussions or sharing your experiences. Beginners may feel intimidated by jargon or established members, but most IF communities are welcoming to newcomers. Overcome hesitation by reading community guidelines and starting with simple questions. This step helps you build connections, stay updated on events, and access collective knowledge. Progress is measured by your comfort in asking questions, receiving feedback, and recognizing community norms.
3
Read IF Creation Guides
2-3 hoursIntermediate
Summary: Study beginner-friendly guides on writing and structuring interactive fiction, focusing on both narrative and technical basics.
Details: To move from player to creator, familiarize yourself with the fundamentals of IF writing and design. Seek out introductory guides that explain branching narratives, player agency, and basic scripting concepts. Focus on understanding story structure, how choices affect outcomes, and the basics of popular IF tools (like Twine or Inform). Beginners often struggle with the balance between story and interactivity, or feel overwhelmed by technical jargon. Overcome this by starting with high-level overviews before diving into tool-specific documentation. This step is essential for conceptualizing your own IF projects and understanding the creative process. Assess your progress by outlining a simple story idea with interactive elements or mapping a basic branching structure.
1
Play Acclaimed IF Games
3-5 hoursBasic
Summary: Experience several well-regarded interactive fiction titles to understand formats and storytelling styles.
Details: Begin by immersing yourself in a variety of highly regarded interactive fiction works. Choose games that represent different eras and styles—parser-based classics, choice-based narratives, and recent innovations. This hands-on exploration helps you grasp the diversity of IF, from puzzle-heavy adventures to emotionally driven stories. Take notes on what you enjoy, what confuses you, and how different interfaces work. Common beginner challenges include feeling overwhelmed by parser commands or missing narrative branches. Overcome this by reading in-game help, walkthroughs, and community hints. This step is crucial for building foundational literacy in IF conventions and understanding what makes interactive stories engaging. Evaluate your progress by reflecting on your enjoyment, ability to navigate stories, and recognition of different IF structures.
2
Join IF Community Spaces
1-2 hoursBasic
Summary: Register and participate in online forums or chat groups dedicated to interactive fiction discussion and support.
Details: Engaging with the IF community is vital for learning, support, and inspiration. Find active forums, Discord servers, or mailing lists where IF enthusiasts gather. Introduce yourself, read beginner threads, and ask questions about games or tools. Lurking is fine at first, but try to participate by commenting on discussions or sharing your experiences. Beginners may feel intimidated by jargon or established members, but most IF communities are welcoming to newcomers. Overcome hesitation by reading community guidelines and starting with simple questions. This step helps you build connections, stay updated on events, and access collective knowledge. Progress is measured by your comfort in asking questions, receiving feedback, and recognizing community norms.
3
Read IF Creation Guides
2-3 hoursIntermediate
Summary: Study beginner-friendly guides on writing and structuring interactive fiction, focusing on both narrative and technical basics.
Details: To move from player to creator, familiarize yourself with the fundamentals of IF writing and design. Seek out introductory guides that explain branching narratives, player agency, and basic scripting concepts. Focus on understanding story structure, how choices affect outcomes, and the basics of popular IF tools (like Twine or Inform). Beginners often struggle with the balance between story and interactivity, or feel overwhelmed by technical jargon. Overcome this by starting with high-level overviews before diving into tool-specific documentation. This step is essential for conceptualizing your own IF projects and understanding the creative process. Assess your progress by outlining a simple story idea with interactive elements or mapping a basic branching structure.
4
Create a Short IF Prototype
3-5 hoursIntermediate
Summary: Use a beginner-friendly tool to build a simple interactive story, focusing on basic branching or input.
Details: Apply your knowledge by creating a small interactive fiction piece using accessible tools like Twine (for choice-based) or Inform (for parser-based). Start with a very short story—perhaps a single scene with a few choices or commands. Focus on learning the tool’s interface, testing your story, and understanding how player input shapes the narrative. Beginners often get stuck on technical errors or try to create overly ambitious projects. Avoid this by keeping your scope small and using community tutorials for troubleshooting. This step is crucial for developing practical skills and gaining confidence as a creator. Evaluate your progress by sharing your prototype with others and noting their feedback or your own sense of accomplishment.
5
Share and Solicit Feedback
2-4 hoursIntermediate
Summary: Publish your prototype in a community space and request constructive feedback from experienced IF creators.
Details: Once you’ve created a basic IF piece, share it with the community for feedback. Post your work in beginner-friendly forums, feedback threads, or dedicated sharing spaces. Clearly state that you’re seeking constructive criticism and are open to suggestions. Be prepared for both praise and helpful critique—this is a learning opportunity. Beginners may fear negative feedback or feel exposed, but most IF communities value encouragement and growth. Overcome anxiety by focusing on specific questions (e.g., “Was the story clear?” “Did the choices feel meaningful?”). This step is vital for improving your craft, understanding audience perspectives, and integrating into the IF creator community. Progress is measured by the quality of feedback received and your ability to iterate on your work.
Welcoming Practices
„Newcomers are often invited to participate in beta-testing cycles.“
This practice helps integrate them into the community while contributing to game development and learning community norms.
„IF newcomers are encouraged to join forums like the Interactive Fiction Community Forum or Discord servers.“
These venues provide social support, advice, and entry points into cultural traditions and community events.
Beginner Mistakes
Assuming typing any random command will work without understanding parser syntax.
Learn basic parser commands and experiment thoughtfully to interact correctly with the game world.
Discussing game puzzles publicly without spoiler warnings.
Always use spoiler tags or give advance warning when sharing solutions to avoid ruining the experience for others.
Facts
Regional Differences
North America
North America hosts many core IF events like IFComp and Spring Thing, with a strong tradition of parser-based games.
Europe
European IF communities often emphasize translation and the inclusion of non-English interactive fiction, reflecting linguistic diversity.
Misconceptions
Misconception #1
Interactive Fiction is just 'choose your own adventure' books.
Reality
While some IF uses choice-based mechanics, a substantial part revolves around parser-based text adventures with complex command inputs and deep storytelling.
Misconception #2
Interactive Fiction is outdated technology, no longer relevant.
Reality
The IF community actively develops new tools and games, embracing experimental narratives and accessibility, keeping the bubble dynamic and evolving.
Clothing & Styles
T-shirts featuring references to classic IF (e.g., 'I said XYZZY and all I got was this lousy T-shirt')
Shows membership pride and a shared nod to IF history.
