The Definitive Game Narrative Guide

The Definitive Game Narrative Guide is the ultimate start and end point for storytelling in video games. Whether you’re an aspiring writer or a seasoned game developer, this book offers an in‑depth, comprehensive look at the entire narrative process.

Written by two industry veterans with experience across some of the biggest AAA franchises, this guide covers the basics to the advanced, including the "why" for each topic as much as the "how."

This book explores the nuances of world building, character development, interactive storytelling, and the technical challenges unique to game narrative. With real‑world examples, practical insights, and expert advice, it provides a look into how game stories come together, from the smallest indie project to massive AAA teams.

The Definitive Game Narrative Guide is more than a how‑to book, as it also serves as an industry insider’s perspective on what makes game storytelling truly great. It discusses techniques to navigate the creative workplace, working as a creative, and most importantly, collaborating with other creatives and disciplines, such as art and design.

An essential tool for anyone looking to level up their understanding of game narrative. This book will help you bring unforgettable stories to life in an interactive form.

Brian Kindregan is a veteran of BioWare, Blizzard, Epic Games, Ubisoft, NetEase, and Tencent. Brian has been a creative director, a narrative director, a lead writer, and a senior writer. In a previous life, he was a storyboard artist and animator in the film business and directed two seasons of a CG television series. He’s also taught at a number of universities and lectured on game narrative at Harvard’s Graduate School of Design. You can find him on Substack at @briankindregan.

Diandra Anne Lasrado is a veteran of BioWare, Blizzard, Riot Games, Carbine, Activision, Aniplex, and more. Diandra has been a lead narrative designer, senior narrative designer, and senior editor. She’s worked on World of Warcraft, League of Legends, Wildstar, Diablo, and more. She has mentored a number of young developers and lectured at Harvard’s Graduate School of Design. You can find her on BlueSky at @mesaanasedai and Substack at @mesaanasedai.