The relation between rhythm and combat in action games as explored through the case studies of Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice and Black Myth: Wukong

Abstract

This dissertation seeks to explore the relation between rhythm and combat in action games. Many modern titles place great importance on the player’s ability to react and time their movements to succeed in a given combat encounter; the enemy presented to the player tends to follow a pattern of attacks, and the player must in turn react by inputting the correct sequence of button presses to successfully counter the presented attack pattern. This dissertation argues that these sequences can be understood for their rhythmical value, by applying concepts of rhythms drawn from music studies and game studies alike. Following this, the presence of rhythm in two case studies, Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice and Black Myth: Wukong, will be explored to identify a connection between rhythm and combat in action games. This connection will be further discussed in the conclusion, wherein the rhythmic affordances discussed in both case studies will be directly compared, showing that rhythm both is present and aids the player in progressing in a combat encounter.