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Writer's pictureRodrigo Fernández

Liminal Spaces in Video Games

Liminal spaces are defined as transitional spaces that exist between two distinct states or phases. In videogames, these spaces often take the form of safe havens or hubs where players can rest, interact with NPCs, and prepare for the next stage of their journey.


From a Design Perspective


Liminal spaces are inherent to video games for a number of reasons. They can be put there on purpose merely because of a design standpoint. While you traverse the liminal space, the new area you are going to is finishing loading. It can also unclutter the level elements, or assets, allowing it to run smoothly, or having optimal performance.


This technique has been used by developers ever since video games became a thing. Usually, they are given a list of requirements like the size of the game file, platform architecture, platform memory, processing, and so on. Based on these elements, they design and program a game, and all its levels, characters, assets, and logic.


A very peculiar liminal space.

Perhaps you remember opening a door in Zelda: Ocarina of Time, and how the camera cleverly changed perspectives; this is a technique to ‘hide’ the blank space up front while the level was loading. Another clever trick is elevators, especially in huge open world games. Mass Effect used this technique but coated it with the characters chatting, or you could hear the news around the galaxy. While you were ‘entertained’ the area you were going, was loading.


They Provide Respite


Liminal spaces in videogames are necessary because they provide a break from the normal gameplay and allow players to relax and recharge. These spaces also provide a sense of immersion in the game world and can help to enhance the overall player experience.


One of the main benefits of liminal spaces is that they give players a chance to catch their breath after intense gameplay. Whether it's a battle-filled RPG or a fast-paced platformer, most videogames require a certain level of concentration and effort from players. Liminal spaces provide a much-needed respite from this constant mental and physical strain, allowing players to relax and recharge before diving back into the action.

A liminal space containing a cozy cabin (Majora's Mask).

Liminal spaces also enhance the sense of immersion in the game world. By providing a space for players to interact with NPCs and explore their surroundings, these spaces help to create a more believable and fully-realized game world. This is especially important for games that try to tell a compelling story, as it allows players to become more emotionally invested in the characters and events of the game.


The Welcome Inn from the Nintendo DS Game The Wizard of Oz: Beyond the Yellow Brick Road

In conclusion, liminal spaces are an important aspect of videogames as they provide a break from the normal gameplay, enhance immersion in the game world, and allow players to relax and recharge. Without these spaces, the overall player experience would likely suffer as a result.


What are some liminal spaces you remember when playing video games as a kid? Do some particular memories come up? Does a feeling of nostalgia invade you when traversing a virtual liminal space? Let me know in the comments down below.


Happy gaming.



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