Bridging News and Play: The Concept, Characteristics, and Challenges of Newsgames

Abstract

In the current era of technological transformation, media forms are undergoing cross-border integration. Newsgames are gradually emerging as a significant in-novative format within digital journalism. This paper examines two primary def-initional perspectives on newsgames—journalistic professionalism and non-fiction writing—and summarizes their core characteristics: a fact-based foundation, reliance on procedural rhetoric, and strong interactivity coupled with immersive experience. Concurrently, the study identifies structural contradic-tions inherent in newsgames concerning topic selection, the balance between authenticity and entertainment, and the coordination between timeliness and user retention. Furthermore, it proposes pathways for sustainable development by expanding narrative boundaries, adhering to the core principle of authenticity, and innovating product logic. This discussion aims to provide a reference for understanding and developing newsgames.