Video game narratives refer to the storytelling elements within video games that guide players through the game's plot and character development. These narratives can be linear, where the story follows a set path, or non-linear, allowing players to make choices that affect the outcome. They often include themes, conflicts, and character arcs similar to traditional storytelling found in books and films. In many games, narratives are enhanced by cutscenes, dialogue, and gameplay mechanics that immerse players in the story. Popular genres like role-playing games (RPGs) and adventure games often emphasize rich narratives, while others, like puzzle games, may focus less on story and more on gameplay challenges.