Introduction to Computer Game Writing

Overview

Overview

This online CPD will introduce you to the core methods of writing for computer games. Primarily, this will incorporate approaches to narrative design and player engagement, and introduce techniques to develop and refine world-building, character development and story structure. In addition, the course will examine important industry skills for narrative designers, such as pitch presentation, publisher interaction and approaches to funding opportunities.

What Topics will you Cover?

  • Terms of gameplay and game design.
  • Industry standards and terminology.
  • Visual storytelling and sound design.
  • Alternative and unconventional approaches taken towards game design.
  • Theories of ‘replayability’.
  • Developing a game using software components.
  • Industry standards and the Game Design Document.
  • Working in teams on content creation.

Who is this Course for?

This CPD is intended for anyone seeking to develop their writing skills to lead or support game development and familiarise themselves with the industry-level expectations of game designers with regards to narrative design. No prior skills are required, though we expect applicants will have an interest in creative writing or game production.

Who Teaches the Course?

Assistant Professor David Stevenson – David holds a Ph.D. from Queen’s University, Belfast. He is the co-founder, and game and narrative designer, of the company Pigs in Blankets.

Time, Date, and Place

This CPD will be delivered online over two semesters (in two 11-week blocks from September-December and January-April). It will involve weekly attendance at a two-hour live webinar. Participants will be writing and completing world-building assignments throughout the duration of the CPD. Participants can expect to spend a minimum of four hours per week on this self-directed study.

The course commences in September and concludes in April. 

A Certificate of Completion will be provided when participants have completed all of the assignments.

Narratives for Computer Games

This online CPD will introduce you to the core methods of writing for computer games. Primarily, this will incorporate approaches to narrative design and player engagement, and introduce techniques to develop worldbuilding, character development and story structure. Speaker: Assistant Professor David Stevenson.

Admission Requirements

For the best online experience, we recommend using Chrome as your default browser, along with a USB (or other) headset with built-in microphone.

Course Fees

€750 (for two semesters).

Apply

Registration for this CPD closes on Friday 6th September 2024. 

Places are limited as class sizes are small, with up to 30 per class, so enroll as soon as possible to secure your place on the course. 

You can enroll on the course directly via the PayPal link below. The course fee includes access to the course materials via Blackboard (Trinity’s virtual learning environment) for the duration of the course. Participation in this CPD course does not include access to the Trinity Library or any other student services (including a student identity card). 

For employers wishing to pay for employees' registration via invoice, please contact sspcpd@tcd.ie

Apply

Attendee Name
Attendee Email Address

Get in Touch

Assistant Professor, David Stevenson, email: sasteven@tcd.ie

Register Your Interest

Register your interest at Trinity College Dublin, the University of Dublin.

As Ireland’s leading university, we offer a wide range of postgraduate programmes at masters, diploma and certificate level.

Trinity is an international university steeped in history, with a reputation for excellence in education, research and innovation.

Register Your Interest