7
Expanded Table of Contents
Designing Characters .................................................................71
Background ...................................................................................71
Conveying Character .....................................................................71
Semiotics .......................................................................................74
Character Archetypes ...................................................................74
Character-Design Process ...........................................................77
Creating Concept Art ....................................................................77
Creating Model Sheets ..................................................................77
Creating Movement Sketches .......................................................77
Creating Expression Sketches ......................................................78
Creating Sketches for Weapons and Accessories ........................78
Creating Mockups .........................................................................78
Creating Renderings ......................................................................79
Chapter 3
Story Composition .............................................................
86
To Add or Not to Add a Story .....................................................88
Add Entertainment to the Game ...................................................88
Define the Audience ......................................................................88
Keep Player Attention ...................................................................89
Differentiate the Game .................................................................89
Integrate with Marketing ..............................................................90
Creative Writing ..........................................................................91
Brainstorm Ideas ...........................................................................91
Determine the Central Premise ....................................................92
Define the Characters ...................................................................96
Create a Primary Conflict ..............................................................97
Structure the Story ........................................................................97
Develop an Ending Point ...............................................................98
Interactive Story Delivery ...........................................................99
Linear Structure ............................................................................99
Nonlinear Structure .......................................................................99
Design for the Story ..................................................................101
Documentation of Story and Level Progression .........................102
Level Design ................................................................................105
GUI Design ...................................................................................106
HUD Design .................................................................................106
Essential Elements of a Level ...................................................110
Setting .........................................................................................110
Character Motivation and Emotional Development ...................111
Purpose and Goal ........................................................................112
Dramatic Action ..........................................................................112
Conflict and Dramatic Tension ....................................................112