Second Story


Reviewed by Charla Lucero. The SECOND STORY website is unique, interesting and demonstrates the future of the interactive story with the advent of technology.  The idea is that the story no longer flows in one direction, they provide the characters, the stage, music, information, imagery and atmosphere that visitors use to weave their own story - the second story.  Established in 1994, the studio’s team of creative artists, producers, writers, animators, and programmers has developed over 40 award-winning interactive stories.  They are sponsored by names like Discovery, National Geographic, and DreamWorks Records to name a few.

The homepage has links to their newest features and relevant news along with a moving banner with a timeline of feature stories the group has been involved with since their existence in 1994.  The thumbnail pictures that scroll across the page provide links to the actual stories.  Above the banner there are nine links including the homepage which are detailed below.  The graphics in the middle change to an image related to the feature story as you scroll over the links.   What I like about this site is the team’s outlook on interactive digital storytelling.  They are dedicated to inspiring audiences through storytelling innovation.  The disadvantage of this site is that you will need a fast computer to enjoy the site.  The many pictures may take long to load.  The design is unique therefore can be confusing.  Navigation becomes simpler with regular use.  The pictures are fantastic and the animation is exciting.  Being new to the storytelling world, I wonder if traditional storytellers would find this site to be interesting in that they do label themselves as storytellers?  What do you think is the digital story a valid form of storytelling?