Wiction

Wiction is a term used to describe forms of written fiction that are created, shared, or consumed primarily through digital platforms. It encompasses interactive narratives, serialized fiction, and works that incorporate reader input or algorithmic generation.

Etymology and scope: The word combines "writing" and "fiction" and emerged in online discourse among speculative fiction communities in the 2010s. It is not standardized, and its meaning varies across communities; some use it to describe interactive fiction, others for web-native serialized stories.

Characteristics: Common features include reader agency through choices or prompts, branching narratives, cross-media elements, and ongoing publication schedules. Wictions may be generated by software tools, collaborative platforms, or human authors who invite reader participation.

History and examples: Early examples often appeared as Twine-based works, collaborative writing forums, or platforms enabling reader feedback to influence plot direction. More recent wictions may incorporate AI-assisted writing, dynamic content updates, or social media integration.

Reception and significance: As a flexible umbrella term, wiction reflects shifts in storytelling toward participatory, platform-driven forms. Critics discuss authorship, copyright, and sustainability, while fans value immediacy, community involvement, and evolving narrative experiences.