How to lay the foundations for compelling storytelling in games
summary
Get a writer at concept stage and plan design and story side by side so mechanics inform narrative and narrative informs mechanics; expect ripple effects when levels or systems change and consult writer before cutting content so scraps of exposition can be relocated cheaply. Infuse level design with environmental storytelling, barks, books and mission stakes, and build characters with believable motivations so players care. Example: a simple puzzle game like Spooky Spirits becomes emotionally driven by episodic character beats.
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chapters (10)
- 0:00Game storytelling intro
- 1:04Writers in concept stage
- 3:35Trust writers' craft
- 5:02Shared team understanding
- 8:38Organic narrative purpose
- 12:37Make players care
- 15:06Deep believable characters
- 17:33Stakeholder investment
- 18:55Narrative cuts damage
- 20:39Q&A
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