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Peter Boychuk
and
Andrew Gray
A game’s setting is second in importance only to the game’s player character - and some say it’s more important. Game designers must create a compelling new world that players will want to explore and inhabit for many, many hours.
Game writing is a collaborative process, and worlds are designed with input from art directors, level designers, and even marketing teams. But writers have an integral role in making these worlds feel rich, deep and believable.
In this course you’ll learn to use the tools of environmental storytelling, lore, readables and audio/video logs to help create a memorable game setting.
Read more
A game’s setting is second in importance only to the game’s player character - and some say it’s more important. Game designers must create a compelling new world that players will want to explore and inhabit for many, many hours.
Game writing is a collaborative process, and worlds are designed with input from art directors, level designers, and even marketing teams. But writers have an integral role in making these worlds feel rich, deep and believable.
In this course you’ll learn to use the tools of environmental storytelling, lore, readables and audio/video logs to help create a memorable game setting.
Read more
A game’s setting is second in importance only to the game’s player character - and some say it’s more important. Game designers must create a compelling new world that players will want to explore and inhabit for many, many hours.
Game writing is a collaborative process, and worlds are designed with input from art directors, level designers, and even marketing teams. But writers have an integral role in making these worlds feel rich, deep and believable.
In this course you’ll learn to use the tools of environmental storytelling, lore, readables and audio/video logs to help create a memorable game setting.
Verified learners will access additional game industry interviews, assignments and discussion topics, connecting with a community of other writers and game enthusiasts.
What you'll learn
- How level designers and the art team approach the game world, and how the narrative designer works with them
- Environmental storytelling: how the setting creates mystery, reveals history and furthers the game’s story
- Learn how to create compelling found narrative
- How writers of lore and backstory can learn from real-world research and history
- Tools and techniques for creating compelling audio and video logs
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/259001/worldbuilding
What's inside
Syllabus
Module 1: Creating a Compelling Game World
The imagination space - from the game map to player POV to game economies
Getting started: what's the hook, and how do you find inspiration?
Read more
Syllabus
Module 1: Creating a Compelling Game World
The imagination space - from the game map to player POV to game economies
Getting started: what's the hook, and how do you find inspiration?
Read more
Module 2: Creating Fictional Worlds
Defining scope and producing the illusion of a larger world
Collaborative worldbuilding
How to create mystery and shape player decisions
Working with established worlds
Module 3: Populating Your World
Fictional races, cultures and languages
Fictional places and historical research
Fictional beasts
Weapons, equipment, technology and vehicles
Module 4: Animating Your World
Depicting day-to-day life
Using environment to motivate exploration
Soundscapes and audio/video logs
Found narrative
Module 5: Finessing Your World
Genre considerations - how the genre (SF, Horror, etc) influences setting
Common challenges
Getting players invested in your world
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Students who want to become professional game writers will greatly benefit from taking this course
Students interested in environmental storytelling will find this course beneficial
Experienced game writers may also want to take this course as a refresher
Those interested in creating believable and immersive game worlds will find this course extremely helpful
Save this course
Save Worldbuilding for Video Games to your list so you can find it easily later:
Save
Save
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Worldbuilding for Video Games with these
activities:
Brush up on storytelling techniques
Show steps
Ensure a solid foundation for crafting compelling game narratives by reviewing storytelling techniques and principles.
Browse courses on
Narrative
Show steps
-
Review books or articles on storytelling techniques
-
Analyze the structure, pacing, and character development of effective stories
Review design vocabulary and concepts
Show steps
Reviewing fundamental design concepts and jargon will help you understand the course materials more thoroughly.
Show steps
-
Create a glossary of common game design terms and definitions.
-
Research different types of game genres and their unique characteristics.
Strengthen writing skills through daily creative writing exercises
Show steps
Sharpen your writing skills, which are crucial for crafting engaging game narratives and immersive worlds, through regular writing practice.
Browse courses on
Writing
Show steps
-
Set aside a specific time each day for writing
-
Use writing prompts or generate your own ideas to spark creativity
-
Experiment with different writing styles and techniques
Nine other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 12 activities
Delve into the rich world of Middle-earth
Show steps
Expand your grasp of worldbuilding by studying the masterful work of J.R.R. Tolkien and the meticulous world of Middle-earth.
View
The Lord of the Rings Collector’s Edition Box...
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read or re-read The Lord of the Rings to experience its intricate and immersive setting
-
Analyze the techniques Tolkien employs to create a believable and engaging world
Attend game industry events and meetups
Show steps
Attending game industry events will help you connect with other professionals in the field, learn about the latest trends, and get feedback on your work.
Show steps
-
Research upcoming game industry events in your area.
-
Attend events that are relevant to your interests and career goals.
-
Network with other attendees and exchange ideas.
Refine lore-building skills with a detailed study of Star Wars lore
Show steps
Enhance your worldbuilding abilities by深入 examining the extensive and well-crafted lore of the Star Wars universe.
Show steps
-
Gather a comprehensive understanding of the Star Wars lore by watching movies, reading books, and exploring additional content
-
Analyze the narrative structure, themes, and character development within the Star Wars universe
-
Identify techniques for crafting captivating and immersive lore that resonates with audiences
Practice writing in-game dialogue and narratives
Show steps
Writing exercises will help you develop your writing skills and improve the quality of your in-game writing.
Browse courses on
Game Writing
Show steps
-
Write a short dialogue between two characters in a game setting.
-
Create a brief narrative that describes a key event in a game's storyline.
-
Write a short story that explores the motivations and backstory of a game character.
Attend industry events to connect with game designers and writers
Show steps
Expand your professional network and gain valuable insights by engaging with industry professionals at game-related events.
Show steps
-
Research upcoming game conferences and events
-
Prepare an introduction and elevator pitch
-
Set goals for each event, such as meeting specific individuals or learning about new trends
Design a compelling game setting for your own original game
Show steps
Solidify your understanding of game setting design by creating a fully-fledged setting for your own imaginative game.
Browse courses on
Game Design
Show steps
-
Brainstorm ideas and concepts for your game setting, drawing inspiration from various sources
-
Establish the core themes, tone, and aesthetic of your game world
-
Create a detailed map and backstory for your game setting
Create a blog or website about game writing
Show steps
Creating a blog or website will allow you to share your knowledge and insights about game writing with others, and it will also help you build a portfolio of your work.
Browse courses on
Game Writing
Show steps
-
Choose a niche for your blog or website.
-
Create high-quality content that is relevant to your target audience.
-
Promote your blog or website through social media and other online channels.
Design a prototype for a game level that showcases your setting
Show steps
Translate your understanding of game setting design into a tangible deliverable by creating a prototype that brings your world to life.
Browse courses on
Level Design
Show steps
-
Choose a specific area or aspect of your game setting to focus on
-
Design the level layout, including obstacles, challenges, and narrative elements
-
Create visual assets or mockups to represent your level design
Design a game setting and write a pitch document
Show steps
Creating a game setting and writing a pitch document will help you apply the concepts you learn in the course and demonstrate your understanding of game design.
Browse courses on
Game Design
Show steps
-
Brainstorm and develop a unique and compelling game setting.
-
Create concept art and write detailed descriptions of the game world.
-
Write a pitch document that outlines the game's concept, gameplay, and target audience.
Brush up on storytelling techniques
Show steps
Ensure a solid foundation for crafting compelling game narratives by reviewing storytelling techniques and principles.
Browse courses on
Narrative
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review books or articles on storytelling techniques
- Analyze the structure, pacing, and character development of effective stories
Review design vocabulary and concepts
Show steps
Reviewing fundamental design concepts and jargon will help you understand the course materials more thoroughly.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Create a glossary of common game design terms and definitions.
- Research different types of game genres and their unique characteristics.
Strengthen writing skills through daily creative writing exercises
Show steps
Sharpen your writing skills, which are crucial for crafting engaging game narratives and immersive worlds, through regular writing practice.
Browse courses on
Writing
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Set aside a specific time each day for writing
- Use writing prompts or generate your own ideas to spark creativity
- Experiment with different writing styles and techniques
Nine other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 12 activities
Delve into the rich world of Middle-earth
Show steps
Expand your grasp of worldbuilding by studying the masterful work of J.R.R. Tolkien and the meticulous world of Middle-earth.
View
The Lord of the Rings Collector’s Edition Box...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read or re-read The Lord of the Rings to experience its intricate and immersive setting
- Analyze the techniques Tolkien employs to create a believable and engaging world
Attend game industry events and meetups
Show steps
Attending game industry events will help you connect with other professionals in the field, learn about the latest trends, and get feedback on your work.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research upcoming game industry events in your area.
- Attend events that are relevant to your interests and career goals.
- Network with other attendees and exchange ideas.
Refine lore-building skills with a detailed study of Star Wars lore
Show steps
Enhance your worldbuilding abilities by深入 examining the extensive and well-crafted lore of the Star Wars universe.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather a comprehensive understanding of the Star Wars lore by watching movies, reading books, and exploring additional content
- Analyze the narrative structure, themes, and character development within the Star Wars universe
- Identify techniques for crafting captivating and immersive lore that resonates with audiences
Practice writing in-game dialogue and narratives
Show steps
Writing exercises will help you develop your writing skills and improve the quality of your in-game writing.
Browse courses on
Game Writing
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Write a short dialogue between two characters in a game setting.
- Create a brief narrative that describes a key event in a game's storyline.
- Write a short story that explores the motivations and backstory of a game character.
Attend industry events to connect with game designers and writers
Show steps
Expand your professional network and gain valuable insights by engaging with industry professionals at game-related events.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research upcoming game conferences and events
- Prepare an introduction and elevator pitch
- Set goals for each event, such as meeting specific individuals or learning about new trends
Design a compelling game setting for your own original game
Show steps
Solidify your understanding of game setting design by creating a fully-fledged setting for your own imaginative game.
Browse courses on
Game Design
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Brainstorm ideas and concepts for your game setting, drawing inspiration from various sources
- Establish the core themes, tone, and aesthetic of your game world
- Create a detailed map and backstory for your game setting
Create a blog or website about game writing
Show steps
Creating a blog or website will allow you to share your knowledge and insights about game writing with others, and it will also help you build a portfolio of your work.
Browse courses on
Game Writing
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a niche for your blog or website.
- Create high-quality content that is relevant to your target audience.
- Promote your blog or website through social media and other online channels.
Design a prototype for a game level that showcases your setting
Show steps
Translate your understanding of game setting design into a tangible deliverable by creating a prototype that brings your world to life.
Browse courses on
Level Design
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a specific area or aspect of your game setting to focus on
- Design the level layout, including obstacles, challenges, and narrative elements
- Create visual assets or mockups to represent your level design
Design a game setting and write a pitch document
Show steps
Creating a game setting and writing a pitch document will help you apply the concepts you learn in the course and demonstrate your understanding of game design.
Browse courses on
Game Design
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Brainstorm and develop a unique and compelling game setting.
- Create concept art and write detailed descriptions of the game world.
- Write a pitch document that outlines the game's concept, gameplay, and target audience.
Career center
Learners who complete Worldbuilding for Video Games will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Game Writer
Game Writer
Game Writers write storylines, dialogue, and scripts for video games. Course participants who hope to succeed in Game Writing might benefit from taking Worldbuilding for Video Games to strengthen their skills. This course can provide building blocks for foundational writing skills that are used in this career.
Narrative Designer
Narrative Designer
Narrative Designers may find that Worldbuilding for Video Games could be helpful as they create the storylines, characters and worlds for video games. By understanding the principles of how to create compelling game worlds, video game enthusiasts can build a strong foundation for entering the career field.
Game Artist
Game Artist
Game Artists create the visual assets for video games, from characters and objects to environments and textures. Worldbuilding for Video Games may be useful for building foundational knowledge that is applied directly to their work.
Video Game Designer
Video Game Designer
Video Game Designers create and implement game worlds and story. Worldbuilding for Video Games may be useful for learning the core concepts of worldbuilding for games. This course can help build a foundation for the specific worldbuilding skills that Video Game Designers need.
Level Designer
Level Designer
Level Designers create the layouts, environments, and obstacles within video games. This course can help Level Designers build a foundation for creating the immersive and interactive worlds that they need for their work.
Concept Artist
Concept Artist
Concept Artists bring the worlds of video games to life. Worldbuilding for Video Games may be useful for building foundational knowledge that is applied directly to their work.
Environmental Artist
Environmental Artist
Environmental Artists create the environments, landscapes, and backgrounds for video games. Worldbuilding for Video Games may be useful for building foundational knowledge that is applied directly to their work.
Creative Director
Creative Director
Creative Directors are responsible for the overall creative vision and direction of a video game. Worldbuilding for Video Games may be useful to help build a foundation for understanding the processes of creating the worlds these video games will inhabit.
Technical Director
Technical Director
Technical Directors oversee the technical development of video games. Worldbuilding for Video Games may be useful for helping to understand the relationship between the worlds of the games and the technical development of those games.
Game Director
Game Director
Game Directors oversee the development and production of video games. Worldbuilding for Video Games may be useful in helping to build a foundation for understanding the processes of creating the games they will direct.
Art Director
Art Director
Art Directors oversee the visual development and art team for a video game. Worldbuilding for Video Games may be useful to help build a foundation for understanding the creative and development processes of building the game worlds.
Game Programmer
Game Programmer
Game Programmers code the logic and functionality of video games. Worldbuilding for Video Games may help build a foundation for understanding how the worlds they are working on operate.
Writer
Writer
Writers create original content, such as novels, short stories, poems, articles, or screenplays. Those specializing in screenwriting or content writing may find that Worldbuilding for Video Games could be helpful. Screenwriters work to create and build fictional worlds or write about worlds that already exist. Content writers may benefit from building storytelling skills and learning to create compelling environments.
Animator
Animator
Animators bring video game characters and environments to life. Worldbuilding for Video Games may be useful for helping to understand the creation of the spaces their animations will inhabit.
Game Producer
Game Producer
Game Producers manage the development and production of video games. Worldbuilding for Video Games may be useful in helping to understand the processes of creating the games they will manage.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/259001/worldbuilding
Reading list
We've selected ten books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Worldbuilding for Video Games.
Takes a comprehensive look at the different aspects of game design, including worldbuilding, gameplay, and user experience.
Provides a comprehensive guide to writing for video games, including topics such as dialogue, plot, and character development.
Is widely used as a college textbook, and includes indepth discussions on how to write for player agency, emergent storytelling, and nonverbal communication in games.
Save
Provides a more practical, hands-on approach to game design, and is an excellent resource for game designers of all experience levels.
Save
Provides a comprehensive look at the discipline of level design, focusing on the creative process of designing levels that serve the needs of the game.
Save
Comprehensive overview of game development, presented in a manner thats accessible to students, hobbyists, and experienced programmers alike.
Save
Provides an overview of the psychological principles that underpin game design, and is an excellent resource for designers looking to understand the motivations and behaviors of players.
Provides a framework for creating stories that are both engaging and emotionally resonant.
Provides a unique perspective on the writing that goes into games from a veteran film and TV writer. An invaluable addition for more experienced writers.
Discusses the creative process, and includes case studies of successful video games and other entertainment products.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/259001/worldbuilding
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World Design for Video Games
Effort
4 to 6 hours per week for 5 weeks
Level
Introductory
Via
edX
Institution
University of British Columbia
Instructors
Peter Boychuk
Andrew Gray
Language
English
Transcript
English
This course belongs to a
collection
called
Writing for Video Games. It's comprised of six courses:
- Video Game Writing Essentials
- Writing Video Game Characters
- Writing Video Game Scenes and Dialogue
- Worldbuilding for Video Games (viewing)
- Interactive Narrative
- Working as a Game Writer
Good to know
Students who want to become professional game writers will greatly benefit from taking this course
Students interested in environmental storytelling will find this course beneficial
Experienced game writers may also want to take this course as a refresher
Those interested in creating believable and immersive game worlds will find this course extremely helpful
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