Analysis of Core Drive on Narrative-Driven Games using Octalysis Framework: Case Study on The Last of Us Series

To create an immersive gaming experience, narrative-driven games like The Last of Us Remastered and The Last of Us Part II use linear storytelling and emotionally layered character arcs to immerse players in morally complex challenges and visceral survival scenarios. By analyzing "Core Drives—fundamental motivators that drive player engagement—through the Octalysis framework, this study explores how these elements sustain immersion and drive progression. This research examines how "Core Drives are manifested in narrative-driven action games through an analysis of The Last of Us series using the Octalysis framework. The study reveals that the games utilize narrative, cap switcher, progress bar, real-time control, collection sets, countdown timer, evil egg, and visual storytelling to align with the eight "Core Drives. Notably, the absence of multiplayer modes limited insights into the "Social Influence and Relatedness" of "Core Drive." These findings highlight the series’ strategic integration of motivational elements, offering valuable insights for designing emotionally resonant and engaging narrative-driven games.