The Typology of Representations in Computer Games

Computer games function as complex representational systems that require a rigorous analytical framework to decode how digital content connects to real-world targets. By applying Charles Sanders Peirce’s trichotomy of symbolic, iconic, and indexical signs, it becomes possible to move beyond superficial interpretations of game media. Symbolic representations rely on arbitrary social or linguistic conventions, while iconic representations function through structural homomorphisms, allowing players to derive knowledge through simulation. Indexical representations, conversely, are defined by a physical or causal link between the game asset and its referent, such as through photogrammetry, sound sampling, or specific code-based triggers.

This analytical model is further refined by a two-dimensional matrix that categorizes these signs based on their status as internal or external to the game world and their diegetic or non-diegetic placement. By replacing the vague notion of visual similarity with the concept of structural similarity, this framework allows for a precise, non-visual modeling of game elements. This approach is particularly effective for evaluating how simulations function as virtual models, enabling the exploration of complex systems and counterfactual scenarios that exceed the capabilities of traditional physical models.

The primary utility of this typology lies in its ability to identify representational content that exists independently of developer intent. Because iconic representation relies on structural similarity rather than creator consciousness, games can inadvertently contain offensive or culturally loaded imagery, such as the controversial depictions found in titles like LocoRoco. By distinguishing between these representational mechanisms, researchers and designers can resolve theoretical ambiguities and gain a more nuanced understanding of how digital media interacts with broader cultural contexts. Ultimately, this combinatorial framework provides a necessary tool for evaluating the multifaceted layers of meaning inherent in modern interactive software.