sidekuded

Sidekuded is a narrative technique described in speculative media theory as the embedding of parallel, supplementary story strands within a single work. The central plot remains primary, but sidekuded elements—brief, self-contained episodes or documents—offer alternate viewpoints, backstory, or world-building details that can be consumed in tandem or selectively.

Origin and terminology: The term sidekuded was coined in online discussions about narrative design in the early 2020s and combines "side" with a coined suffix -kuded to evoke "thread" or "tide" in a fictional framework. It is used mainly in analyses of transmedia and interactive storytelling.

Structure and delivery: Sidekud content may appear as in-universe diary entries, side-channel communications, alternate reality quests, or optional chapters. Access is optional and user-directed or triggered by specific choices. Sidekuds are designed to be intelligible on their own but enrich the main storyline when explored.

Purpose and effects: The technique aims to deepen world-building, raise ambiguity, and invite interpretation by encouraging fans to synthesize information across strands. It often supports non-linear or player-driven experiences in games, graphic novels, and web fiction.

Reception and limitations: Critics note that sidekuded works risk distracting or fragmenting the main narrative if not coherently integrated. When well executed, they can enhance engagement and create a sense of a living, multi-layered world.

Related concepts include subplot, transmedia storytelling, paratext, and alternate reality games.