Cultural Affordance and Reception: A Theoretical Framework for Interactive Cross-Cultural Sense-Making in Video Game Environments

Abstract

This study investigates cultural reception dynamics in video games within Genshin Impact, a Chinese-inspired gaming environment. Addressing the research gap in understanding how interactive systems influence cultural reception, we conducted semi-structured interviews across Asia, North America, and Europe. Based on the sense-making theory perspective and grounded theory methodology, we establish a theoretical framework, including three dimensions: (1) systemic cultural elements affordance, (2) personalized cultural experience through gameplay, and (3) cultural reception based on identity negotiation. The proposed theoretical model demonstrates how games operationalize cross-cultural communication through designed scenes and interactions rather than immethodical exposure. The study responds to the growing need for cross-cultural design frameworks in globalized gaming markets while advancing the theoretical understanding of digital environments as active cultural learning spaces. By revealing players’ agentic reinterpretation of cultural elements through gameplay mechanics, it provides developers and cross-cultural communicators with evidence-based strategies for intentional cultural integration.