Slay the Dragon is a practical, beginner-friendly guide to writing for video games. Written by a screenwriter and a game producer, the book provides a clear path from narrative fundamentals to writing for interactive formats. It blends cinematic storytelling techniques with game-specific needs, helping writers break into game development with confidence and clarity.
Key Sections & Themes
1️⃣ The Role of the Game Writer
- Game writers aren’t just storytellers—they’re architects of interactive experiences.
- Must work within constraints of mechanics, pacing, and player agency.
2️⃣ From Film to Game Writing
- Builds on screenwriting techniques (structure, character, theme), then adapts them to games.
- Teaches how to transition from passive to participatory storytelling.
3️⃣ Story Structure in Games
- Explains linear vs. branching narratives, quest structure, and dynamic pacing.
- Focuses on how to maintain emotional arcs in non-linear formats.
4️⃣ Character Development in Interactive Media
- Strong game characters evolve through player actions, not just dialogue.
- Writers must define not only what a character says, but how they respond to choices.
5️⃣ Dialogue and Interactive Conversations
- Covers branching dialogue, player voice, and writing natural, purposeful conversations.
- Discusses writing for player-character hybrids (e.g., RPG protagonists).
6️⃣ Genre-Specific Writing
- RPGs, action games, horror, and sandbox titles each require tailored narrative approaches.
- Mission-based games require modular, scalable story content.
7️⃣ Narrative Design Tools and Collaboration
- Writers use beat charts, flowcharts, and branching trees to map player experiences.
- Effective communication with designers and developers is essential for integration.
8️⃣ Cutscenes, Barks, and Environmental Storytelling
- Writers must master multiple formats: VO barks, UI text, collectible lore, and cinematics.
- Storytelling often happens “on the move,” layered into player-driven action.
9️⃣ Breaking Into the Industry
- Offers career tips for aspiring game writers: building a portfolio, pitching, networking.
- Encourages learning engines, understanding gameplay, and writing small games as practice.
🔟 Case Studies and Exercises
- Includes analysis of successful games and writing challenges to hone skills.
- Encourages readers to think like both player and designer.
Conclusion
Slay the Dragon is a down-to-earth and empowering guide for anyone entering the world of game writing. It demystifies interactive narrative without sacrificing depth, showing how great writing enhances player immersion, decision-making, and emotion. With actionable steps and relatable insights, it’s ideal for storytellers ready to turn their writing into living, playable experiences.