Video Game Writing Essentials

Writing for video games is truly a new frontier, a place where writers and game designers are still learning, innovating and pioneering bold approaches to telling stories.

This course is your introduction to this frontier. We'll explore interactive storytelling as well as touch on the history of video games and the kinds of games that have been developed since the medium was born.

We'll discuss the complex, collaborative process of game development and hear from working game writers about their jobs in the game industry. Then we'll dig into the way game narratives are built, where they come from, and how they are changing.

Verified learners will access additional game industry interviews, assignments and discussion topics, connecting with a community of other writers and game enthusiasts.

Module 1: Introduction to Game Writing

• Interactive storytelling
• Understanding the medium
• Parts of a game
• Different kinds of games

Module 2: Game Development

• Inception
• Role of the writer
• Development

Module 3: Building a Game Story

• Laying a foundation
• Building a structure
• Shaping the experience
• Embracing interactivity

Module 4: Original vs Established I.P.

• Licensed games
• Adapting an I.P.
• Original I.P.

Module 5: Game Design Documents

• The game design document
• The narrative design document