English and drama

Video Games: Writing, World-Building, Characterisation and Storytelling

Module code: Q3300
Level 6
15 credits in spring semester
Teaching method: Workshop
Assessment modes: Coursework

You have learned a great deal about how to make video games, so let’s concentrate on what to make and more importantly why? As the barriers to game development come down, the number of available games increases. The meaning of games is therefore of increasing importance. A compelling story, intriguing characters, and a sense of purpose – of meaning – behind the games will inspire your players. We also want to harness your creativity! In this module we will assess some of the fundamentals of writing for games, including: understanding interactive narratives and choice architecture when designing a story; the game imaginary including its world, characters, wonders, and conflicts; communicating clearly using Game Design Documents (GDD).

Module learning outcomes

• Understand and experiment with common practices of creative writing across multiple computer/video game genres.
• Reflect critically on the social implications of game design, taking into account discourses around gender, race and sexuality.
• Evaluate the possibilities and limitations of creative writing techniques in the development of world-building, character and storytelling, given the constraints and affordances of the video game as a system.