QANON AS ARG: THE MEDIA-GAME ESSENCE OF CONSPIRACY

The article discusses how QAnon, a conspiracy theory that gained popularity on the internet, shares many characteristics with alternative reality games. Authors argue that QAnon's success can be attributed to its ability to involve many participants in the communication process, hold their attention for a long time, form a public opinion regarding current events, and initiate activity in political and economic activities. QAnon's similarities to alternate reality games are seen in its use of “rabbit holes” (entry points) that immerse players in the game, its spontaneous and unplanned nature, and the role of the puppetmaster, which can be performed by anyone within the community. Additionally, the article highlights the TINAG principle (This Is Not A Game) within QAnon, as supporters often assume that the conspiracy theory is true and do not acknowledge that it is just a theory.