transmedialem

Transmedialem, often translated as transmediality, refers to the process of extending a narrative or a fictional world across multiple media platforms. This involves characters, storylines, or themes appearing in different forms of media, such as books, films, video games, comics, and even theme park attractions. The key aspect of transmediality is that these different media do not simply repeat the same story; instead, they each offer unique contributions to the overall narrative or universe, often providing new perspectives, expanding the lore, or introducing new characters. This creates a cohesive and immersive experience for the audience, encouraging them to engage with the content across various platforms to fully understand and appreciate the story.

Transmediality is distinct from simple adaptation, where a story is retold in a new medium. In transmedial projects, each medium serves as a complementary part of a larger whole. For example, a film might introduce a character, while a related comic book series delves into their backstory, and a video game allows players to interact with the world in a new way. This interconnectedness requires careful planning and execution to ensure consistency and a unified narrative experience. Successful transmedial projects often build dedicated fan communities who actively seek out and discuss content across all participating media. The concept is closely related to but distinct from transmedia storytelling, which emphasizes the audience's active participation and agency in constructing their understanding of the narrative across multiple platforms.