No, Riven is not a prequel to Myst; it is its direct sequel.
Understanding the Relationship Between Riven and Myst
Riven: The Sequel to Myst is an acclaimed puzzle adventure video game that serves as the second installment in the beloved Myst series. Developed by Cyan Worlds and initially published by Red Orb Entertainment (a division of Broderbund), it directly continues the narrative established in the original Myst game.
Sequel vs. Prequel Explained
To clarify the relationship between Myst and Riven, it's helpful to understand the difference between a prequel and a sequel in storytelling, especially in video games:
- Prequel: A story, film, or game that tells events that happened before those of an existing work. It provides background or explores earlier origins of characters or plots.
- Sequel: A story, film, or game that continues the narrative of a preceding work, typically set after the events of the original.
In the context of the Myst series:
| Term | Definition | Relation to Myst |
|---|---|---|
| Prequel | Events take place before the original story. | No main series game serves as a direct prequel to Myst. |
| Sequel | Events take place after the original story. | Riven is the primary example, continuing the storyline of the first game. Other sequels include Myst III: Exile, Myst IV: Revelation, and Myst V: End of Ages. |
Therefore, Riven picks up where the original Myst left off, advancing the story and expanding on the lore and universe that players first encountered in the initial game.
