Game Production Roles - Research

Game Writer 

Duties  Writers work closely with the game design staff, usually under the senior game writer, lead game designer, and creative director. A Story Writer is primarily responsible for pitching creative and engaging stories, writing out game dialogue, and working with visual artists to fine-tune the realization of characters, environment, and props. Geek Meter: Technical < - - - - - | - - > Art Main Skills: Mastery of language, Research, Narrative Practice, Strong Characterization Secondary Skills: Story analysis, Character analysis, Knowledgeable in various subjects Software: Word Processing and Presentation Programs Passions: Reading, Writing, Research, Story-telling, Character Development Responsibilities Cooperating with other game design staff in order to create an effective mix of narrative, design and mechanics Consulting with said team to pitch scene ideas and adjustments Creating outlines, story treatment goals, character descriptions, game dialogue, casting documents, and other support material Researching different cultures, traditions, mentalities, etc. in order to create truly believable characters, realistic interactions, and meaningful narrative experiences Writing interactive scripts to supplement character, story, and theme development while accounting for gameplay interactions and instructions. Constant editing and revising of work Often times required to assist with marketing or packaging drafts of the game Qualifications  Usually a Bachelor's Degree or Equivalent Professional Experience (preferably in Creative Writing / Screenwriting / Script Writing) Courses focusing on fiction, literature, storytelling, and narrative voices preferred  Usually at least two years of professional writing experience are required Being able to analyze games and their story components Being able to communicate ideas in a clear and concise manner Being able to use different tones and voices in writing Understanding of game design and mechanics and how they affect the narrative as a whole Portfolio  Writing Samples (at least 2) demonstrating mastery of: Various Narrative Structures (i.e. serious, comedic) Character Development and Interactions Dialogue (different tones) Information Sources Get In Media: Game Writer Get In Media: Technical Writer Konami: Writer/Scriptwriter TellTale Games: Game Writer Zynga: Content Writer