Cognitive Science 0224 - Narrative in Tabletop Game Des

There are many types of games that tell stories from modern digital AAA titles (like Bioshock Infinite) to 1980s classics (text adventures) to roleplaying games. But how can you create a compelling narrative in a boardgame or card game? This class will look at the confluence of story, character, and game design and how these are combined with board games. Students will study other media, analyze their use of narrative, and study other board games that employ heavy narrative. Using these tools, students will design their own gaming experiences that employ characterization, theme, a three-act plot, plot twists, and elements of modern storytelling.

Independent Work Prerequisite: At least one course in game design. As with most things, the more time you put into this course, the more you will get out of it. You should expect to spend at least seven hours per week (on average) doing activities outside of class, primarily programming your games.