A game design course familiarises students with several aspects of a game’s development. One of the most important parts of designing a game is focusing on its storytelling aspects. As one of the leading design colleges in India, we share some of the useful insights about video game storytelling that students planning to pursue game design courses must know:
The narrative backbone
A narrative backbone is one of the foundational aspects of a game. A student must understand that storytelling is not just reserved to cutscenes or dialogues within the game. The story is what sets up the motivations of the different characters and the world they inhabit. So, students have to be able to understand the core story of a game before they can effectively form content and gameplay around it. Only when gameplay follows a fixed narrative does it ensure player engagement.
Character development
A game’s characters can have a profound impact on the player’s experience. To achieve this, students must learn to create characters that are multi-dimensional and have depth. To achieve this, students must focus on creating character backgrounds and motivations that are compelling and relatable. Moreover, characters should have a clear arc or development path that resonates with the player emotionally. Well-developed characters can elevate the storytelling aspect of the game and create a more immersive and engaging experience for the player.
Player choices
In contrast to books or movies, games offer players the ability to shape and change the storyline based on their choices. As a result, game designers must create stories that are dynamic and can adapt to player choices while still maintaining coherence and meaning. Students must learn how to create choices that are meaningful and have a significant impact on the storyline. Each choice made by the player must have a defined consequence that helps shape the overall narrative of the game. When players feel that their choices have a real impact on the story and game progression, they become more invested in the game.
World building
Design students have to pay careful attention to world-building. A world that is rich in lore is layered with stories that may not be directly related to the main plot but add depth to the overall experience. Creating such a world requires meticulous planning and creativity. Students should be adept at creating complex timelines, intricate relationships, and comprehensive histories that feel believable and engaging. They need to learn how to weave these elements seamlessly into gameplay.
Storytelling through sound and visual design
Games use sound and visuals to tell stories. Sound can create moods and give hints to players. Voice acting can add depth to characters and make the story more engaging. Visuals use environment, characters, lighting, and UI to tell stories. Colour and lighting can make scenes more meaningful, and environmental design can hint at a story. Students must learn to use sound and visuals together to tell stories well. They must also understand how to use simple language to make the story clear to different audiences.
Looking for game design courses in Gujarat?
Explore our B.Design (Hons.) Game Design and Simulation. The course covers emerging areas of AI, VR, XR, and Simulation. Students will learn the programming foundations required for game development and game engine techniques to exploit evolving technologies such as Virtual World Building, XR, Advanced VFX, and Simulation.
