Creating a Unique and Original Plot for Your Game

This article gives you a comprehensive overview of the key elements to consider when creating the plot of a video game, as well as a checklist and step-by-step guide to follow in order to craft a memorable and engaging story.

Shigeru Miyamoto at E3 in Los Angeles

Creating the story for your video game is a crucial task that can greatly impact the player’s experience and enjoyment of the game. The plot sets the stage for the gameplay, guides the player through the game world, and adds depth and meaning to the characters and events of the game. It can also be a way to convey a theme or message to the player.

There are many approaches to creating a plot for a video game. Some game designers prefer to start with a clear concept or theme and build the story around that, while others prefer to let the story evolve organically as the game is developed. Regardless of the approach, there are several key elements to consider when crafting the plot of a game.

One of the most important elements is the conflict or challenge that the player will face. This can be an external threat, such as an enemy or natural disaster, or an internal conflict, such as a personal struggle or moral dilemma. The conflict should be compelling and provide a sense of purpose for the player. It should also be appropriate for the genre and tone of the game. For example, a horror game might have a more intense and ominous conflict than a casual puzzle game.

Another important element is the characters in the game and how they fit into the story. Well-developed characters can add depth and emotion to the plot, and help the player become more invested in the game. They should have distinct personalities, backgrounds, and motivations that influence their actions and interactions with the player and other characters. The player’s character, or avatar, should also be well-defined and have a clear role in the story.

On the other hand, there are also examples of games with weak plots that fail to capture the player’s interest. A common mistake is relying too heavily on cliches or predictable plot points, which can make the story feel stale and unoriginal. Another issue is a lack of coherence or consistency in the plot, which can confuse or frustrate the player.

The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time

Checklist

So, how can you create a compelling plot for your video game? Here is a checklist to follow:

1. Define the conflict or challenge that the player will face. This should be compelling and provide a sense of purpose for the player. It should also be appropriate for the genre and tone of the game.
2. Develop interesting and complex characters. The player’s character, or avatar, should be well-defined and have a clear role in the story. Other characters should have distinct personalities, backgrounds, and motivations that influence their actions and interactions with the player and other characters.
3. Avoid cliches and predictable plot points. A fresh and original plot will keep the player engaged and interested.
4. Consider the theme or message that you want to convey through the story. The plot can be a way to explore social, political, or philosophical issues in a meaningful way.
5. Think about the pacing of the plot and how it will unfold over the course of the game. The plot should have a good balance of action, dialogue, and exposition, and should build towards a satisfying conclusion.
6. Ensure coherence and consistency in the plot. The plot should make sense and fit together logically, without any inconsistencies or plot holes.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Brainstorm ideas and jot down notes on a whiteboard or in a notebook. Consider the genre, setting, and tone of the game, as well as the theme or message that you want to convey.
2. Create a basic outline of the main events and characters. This should include the opening, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution of the plot.
3. Develop the characters further by adding details such as backstory, motivations, and personality traits. Make sure to consider how the characters fit into the overall plot and how they will interact with each other.
4. Use the outline to create a more detailed treatment or script. This should include descriptions of the locations, characters, and events of the game, as well as dialogue and other elements.
5. Playtest the game and gather feedback to see how the plot is working in practice. Make any necessary adjustments based on the feedback.

Remember, the plot of your game is an essential element that can help immerse the player in the world and make the gameplay more meaningful. By following these steps and keeping the above points in mind, you can create a memorable and engaging plot for your game.