Arcane: Lógica transmídia e a construção de universos ficcionais

Abstract

This research analyzes the transmedia universe of League of Legends and its expansion through the series Arcane, integrating concepts of transmedia and paratexts based on the theories of Jenkins (2006) and Gray (2010). The study investigates how Arcane, initially conceived as a paratext, transitions into the realm of transmedia canon, exemplifying the flexibility and fluidity of contemporary narratives. While the game offers players direct interaction with the fictional universe, Arcane delves deeper into the characters' stories and motivations, becoming an essential piece for understanding the universe of Runeterra. Transmedia storytelling is structured across multiple platforms, with each medium contributing uniquely and indispensably to the narrative experience. Gray complements this perspective by highlighting how paratexts can enrich or alter the perception of the main work, often shifting to a central role. This research explores how Arcane exemplifies this transition, establishing itself as a central work in the League of Legends universe due to its narrative depth and widespread acclaim from critics and audiences alike. Narrative and filmic analyses reveal that the form and content of Arcane are inseparable and complementary. The series' visual and auditory aesthetics enhance the characters' conflicts and motivations, creating a dialogue that redefines the boundaries of transmedia narratives. By exploring this dynamic, the research demonstrates that Arcane's success lies not only in its story but also in how that story is presented, expanding and redefining the League of Legends universe. This approach underscores the importance of paratexts and complementary media in constructing complex narrative universes, contributing to contemporary studies in transmedia, digital culture, and audiovisual storytelling