HNAR-371: Adv Game-Writing Studio

This course explores the connection between narrative and the visual experience in the game design realm. Its goal is to provide students an in-depth framework for how to approach crafting a narrative in this interactive medium, along with an understanding of how game design mechanics are connected with developing player agency, and how visuals support these elements. Additional topics will include how the narrative experience transcends text; sound design; visual themes; animation choices; and core game design decisions. Students will craft five character studies, create copy for marketing a game, generate a character relation chart, write a list of rewards and punishments to motivate players in a game, keep a game diary of their video game experiences throughout the course, and combine these elements into an original full game design document. Students will utilize a combination of hands-on-gameplay, lecture and discussion, in-class exercises, and creative writing workshops to foster a greater understanding of the connection between narrative and visual elements with the process of game development. The students will finish the term with a portfolio of copy that connects the various narrative components of the interactive medium, including all of the elements mentioned above.