Video Game Writing 1: Conception is an Intensive workshop format, with instruction compressed into a concentrated time period: one day in New York City, two consecutive days on Zoom, or three weeks for online delivery. This course accommodates writers of all experience levels. A detailed course syllabus is available for review below.
If you possess solid foundational knowledge in video game writing, you may advance directly to Video Game Writing 2. If uncertain about your level, begin with Video Game Writing 1, which provides valuable reinforcement even for experienced game writers.
Video games have become a dominant cultural force (sometimes explosively so), generating annual revenues exceeding the film industry. The medium has simultaneously become remarkably diverse, ranging from action-intensive shooters like Call of Duty to narrative-driven experiences like The Last of Us to unconventional indie productions. Simple foundational concepts like "avoid obstacles" have evolved into complex storytelling frameworks comparable to literary and dramatic works.
The video game industry requires talented writers who understand both compelling narrative craft and the unique technical and interactive demands of gaming. Throughout this course, you'll develop expertise in story architecture, script composition, fictional world creation, character integration in gameplay, and the distinctive requirements of interactive media.
You'll acquire the knowledge to create compelling video game narratives, whether developing expansive epic stories or streamlined casual gaming experiences.
This intensive course provides a comprehensive overview of video game script development and conceptualization. Program components:
- Focused instructional lectures
- Hands-on writing exercises and assignments
Note: Course syllabi vary by instructor and term, though many core topics appear consistently in online sections.
Online Course Format:
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Week 1: Narrative in Gaming Understanding the distinctive aspects of video game storytelling; surveying major video game genres and categories; integrating narrative into game mechanics; understanding game elements, including objectives, interactive elements, player actions, virtual environments, and rule systems
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Week 2: Character, Gameplay, and Thematic Development Understanding thematic construction; developing character objectives, including external and internal motivations; understanding character tactics and approaches; merging character and theme with interactive gameplay
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Week 3: Interactive Narrative Architecture Exploring diverse game storytelling structures; understanding traditional narrative approaches, multiple-ending structures, branching narratives, modular story organization, and emergent narrative systems
About This Online Program:
- Online classes bring together game writers from around the world to study with Gotham instructors, New York City's foremost writing school
- Classes operate asynchronously, allowing participation any time, while maintaining weekly course progression with specific weekly objectives
- Online participation is possible from any global location with internet access; while most students are U.S.-based, we welcome participants from practically every country
- Technical support is provided throughout the course
- Beyond schedule and location flexibility, you'll maintain a complete record of course materials for downloading and reference (materials are text and image-based, not video)
