Embarking on a career in game narrative writing often leads to working within established intellectual properties (IPs). Whether it’s contributing to legendary franchises like Star Wars or James Bond or smaller projects like a friend’s Dungeons & Dragons campaign, writers must navigate the delicate balance of adhering to existing lore while infusing their unique voice.
This article focuses on the nuances of game writing, drawing from experiences with franchises such as HorizonGuild WarsIron ManFable and Destiny. The landscape of game development has always been drawn to big IPs, but the financial downturn of 2022 has made them an even safer bet. The most anticipated game of 2026, Grand Theft Auto 6 exemplifies this trend, with many other games this year being sequels, ports, or expansions of established IPs.
The importance of knowing the IP
When applying for a role within an established IP, candidates are often tested on their knowledge of the franchise. This self-selecting process ensures that writers understand the nuances of the world they are entering. For instance, knowing the difference between Jedi and Sith or between the Imperium and the Tau is crucial. Without this foundational knowledge, writers risk being overlooked. Stakeholders need to trust that you can handle their IP with care and respect.
Mastering the fundamentals
One common mistake among aspiring game writers is the eagerness to introduce elaborate missions or complex characters before mastering the basics. The documentary Jiro Dreams of Sushi offers a valuable lesson in this regard. Aspiring chefs under the tutelage of sushi master Jiro Ono must first master the simplest tasks before advancing to more complex ones. Similarly, game writers must first prove they can write in the IP’s voice before contributing original ideas.
IPs typically provide reference materials such as story bibles, pronunciation guides, and timelines to help writers understand the intricacies of the world. However, it’s equally important to engage with other writers and stakeholders to gain a deeper understanding of how the studio approaches the narrative. This twofold approach ensures that writers become subject matter experts and understand the studio’s vision.
Finding your voice within the IP
Once writers have demonstrated their mastery of the IP, they can begin to contribute their unique voice. This might involve pitching original quests, creating new characters, or expanding on existing lore. However, it’s essential to communicate regularly with the narrative lead to ensure that ideas align with the
Remember, everything you create is in service to the IP. While your work is a part of the game, it takes place within someone else’s sandbox. Collaboration is key, with anywhere from 2 to 2,000 other developers working towards a unified vision. Each contributor adds their insights and imagination to the project, creating a cohesive and engaging experience.
Writing for someone else’s IP can also enhance your own writing skills. It provides experience with pacing, voice, and lore, much like how some creatives got their start writing fan fiction or coding game mods. Being able to showcase versatility across different genres and franchises proves that you can work in various environments.
Ultimately, writing for someone else’s IP comes down to trust and competency. Once you’ve gained entry, it’s up to you to demonstrate your professionalism and attention to detail. By respecting the source material and infusing it with your unique voice, you can make a significant contribution to the world of game writing.
