Wayang Kulit Shadow Puppetry as an Influence on Indonesian Video Game Character Design

Abstract

Wayang Kulit, Indonesia’s traditional shadow puppetry, has long been a cornerstone of the country’s artistic and cultural heritage. As digital entertainment evolves, its aesthetic, narrative, and symbolic elements have found new life in video game design, influencing both visual storytelling and interactive mechanics. This paper explores how Wayang Kulit’s stylized silhouettes, mythological themes, and moral dualities have been adapted into modern gaming, particularly within Indonesian indie game development and global game aesthetics. It examines case studies of games inspired by Wayang Kulit, the technical challenges of translating 2D puppetry into 3D animation, and the balancing act between cultural authenticity and mass-market appeal. Additionally, it discusses the potential for VR, AR, and AI-enhanced animation to expand Wayang Kulit’s role in digital storytelling, offering players immersive experiences rooted in traditional shadow play mechanics. As Indonesia’s game development industry continues to grow, the integration of Wayang Kulit into gaming presents both opportunities for cultural preservation and challenges in representation, reinforcing the need for ethical and well-informed adaptations. This research highlights the importance of culturally inspired game design, not just as an artistic expression but as a means of preserving and globalizing Indonesian heritage in the interactive media landscape.