Play Designs

When you’re designing a game, I think one of the most important part of it is the story. Without a decent story, character development and plot, you have… well, you have crap. There are more than a few games out there with no story or any character development that could easily put me to sleep. Just like a lullabye. In fact, I think I’m falling asleep right now just thinking about it. Actually, I think what’s really putting me to sleep is my writing. Damn, I’m boring.

Anyways, like I said… story = crucial to your game. So, of course, if you’re planning on being a developer, you need to find someone who can write stories. I mean, sure you’re probably a great story teller and all, but I tend to find that most developers are pretty darn boring. Yep, I said it. I’m a developer and I’m boring (please look at paragraph #1 for confirmation).

Next Generation has a great article talking about the importance of a great writer working for your development team.

Here’s a prime example of what I’m talking about, which comes directly from the article:

“In Call of Duty 2 or other World War II games, where is the liberation of the concentration camps?” Franzoni asked. “I am looking for the motivation rather than just shooting a bunch of human figures. I need something that will take it to the next level.”

He continued on his point. “It’s all about mistakes. If you have the Waffen-SS between me and Dachau, it means a lot more. I am looking for something that gives my character a reason to live. Why am I doing this? There needs to be something at stake. In the film business, there are enough people who understand this. I’m not sure if this is the case in the games business. Sometimes, I don’t know why I’m pulling the trigger anymore.”

You know, I love me some World War II games, because I get to blow up the “bad guy”, but the article is right… I don’t really have a reason for living, other than trying to beat the game. I want a story! I know all about World War II from all of those history books they fed me in college and from the movies. Blowing stuff up is awesome, but give me a love story while I blow stuff up.

Yes, I know that would be a stupid story, but it amused me in my head.

[Thanks to Karine for the link to the article ]

4 Comments