Narrative design process during game development - How to design a narrative

Abstract

The objective of the thesis was to explore the world of narrative design from creating compelling worlds and characters to the actual writing process, tools, and writer’s block. The aim was to provide clear examples and instructions for future narrative designers to follow, explaining some key concepts, tools, and practices used during a narrative design internship. The thesis was written by researching different narrative methods and simultaneously reflecting on the practices tested and learned during the internship.

The research method used was the processual action research cycle. This technique has four phases: planning, action, analysis, and conclusion. The process was applied to various tasks during the internship, and the results were then reflected upon. As the method is flexible and can be used multiple times as the cycle starts over, it allowed for a thorough reflection and perfecting of the tasks received during the internship. In addition, the method proved to be a valuable tool for the narrative process itself.

The study revealed multiple narrative design approaches, and each writer selects the best methods suited to their preferences. The writing process is creative, and there are no clear strategies that work for everyone, though practices to avoid writer’s block can be helpful. A narrative writer in a gaming company should, above all, be flexible and courageous, trying new methods and angles while working with the other designers within the boundaries of the given tasks.