"Wind's howling." Meteorological Phenomena as Atmospheres in Digital Games

Abstract

This article explores in-game atmospheres as meteoritical phenomena and aesthetic spaces. The example of wind shows specific means of referentiality used to depict weather in digital games. Considering both philosophical approaches to atmospheres as well as previous observations on meteorological phenomena in film, literature and digital games, this contribution analyzes three games ("The Witcher 2: Wild Hunt", "Ghost of Tsushima", and "The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild") and the role the wind plays in creating their respective game world and atmosphere, creating an environment for meaningful play.