Embedding and Implementation of Quantum Computational Concepts in Digital Narratives

Abstract

Quantum computational concepts introduce a host of new ideas for describing and implementing computational processes based on notions of superposition, entanglement, interference and measurement. This paper explores how such quantum mechanical ideas can be used in the development and implementation of computational narrative environments. In particular we focus on the use of quantum computing concepts for the representation of character state and beliefs, the development of point-of-view and context-sensitive processes for decision making along with the representation of the notion of conflict. We describe the implementation of these ideas in QuNL, our novel, special-purpose declarative language for narrative construction along with QuNE its associated interpreter. Both systems are available on the Web for testing and experimentation.