Ambiguous Signals: Exploring Noise and Silence in Gaming Situations (D02)

• Subject Area: Theatre and Media Studies
• Term: since 2026
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 551281144

This project investigates the functions of noise and silence as fundamental dimensions of mediated communication in the games Werewolves and Among Us. We examine gaming situations both in naturalistic environments and in controlled settings within the GameLab. Using video recordings and observations, we study how silence and noise emerge, are interpreted, and shape the dynamics of communication and play. This is analysed epistemologically, as manifestation of ambiguity, and media-technologically, as indicator of contingency.

• DFG Programme: Collaborative Research Centres
• Subproject of: SFB 1760: SiNoSi: Silence, Noise and Signal in Language
• Applicant Institution: Universität Konstanz
• Project Heads: Professorin Dr. Beate Ochsner; Professorin Dr. Isabell Otto