Excluding character dialogue can provide a unique gameplay experience for the player and force them to pay attention to other communication tactics such as nonverbal communication. When a player does not read or hear conversation within gameplay, the player can be receptive to other forms of communication such as character body language, facial expressions, and actions. Another important communication medium could be music to set the mood for a scene, allowing the player to enjoy other senses. This game design decision can teach the designer the importance of other forms of communication that can be utilized to grab the player's attention. The player in return can focus on a uniquely designed game and appreciate other communicative tactics, such as audio feedback, art, and animation style.
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Virginia[]
In the indie game Virginia, the use of dialogue and character pop-up text boxes does not exist to give the player a unique gameplay experience. The player must observe other forms of communication from characters such as facial expressions, reactions, and music. The designers do an excellent job portraying the emotions for characters without the use of words or text. The use of an original soundtrack performed by the Prague Philharmonic does a superb job in setting the mood and filling the player with emotions throughout the game flow.