Video Game Writer Interview Questions
These interview questions help you uncover the experiences and skills that make a good video game writer.
Top 10 interview questions forVideo Game Writer
1. What video games have you played and what did you like or dislike about them?
There are too many video games that I've played to list them all, but some of my favorites include the Mario Party and Super Smash Bros. series, Animal Crossing, Kirby's Epic Yarn, Splatoon 2, and more. I love playing video games because they're a fun way to escape reality for a while and do something stimulating and relaxing at the same time. I also enjoy multiplayer games where I can play with friends or family. Some of my favorite memories are from playing games like Mario Party and Smash Bros. with friends late into the night. My only real complaint about gaming is that it can be addictive and consuming, which is why I don't play as much as I used to.
2. What attracts you to writing for video games?
The creativity and flexibility of the medium, along with the challenge of telling a story that immerses players in an interactive world.
3. What video game genres are your favorites and why?
I absolutely love first-person shooters. I love the feeling of being in the game world and the challenge of trying to overcome the obstacles in front of me. Another one of my favorite genres is puzzle games. I love the mental stimulation that they provide and the sense of satisfaction that comes with completing them. Finally, I also really enjoy strategy games. They require a lot of thought and planning, and I find it very rewarding when I can outsmart my opponent.
4. How do you approach writing for video games compared to other forms of writing?
Video game writing is a unique form of writing because it demands that the writer consider how the player will interact with the game. Whereas other forms of writing may be linear, video game writing must account for multiple pathways and outcomes that may be possible due to player choice. In order to achieve this, video game writers must have a strong understanding of both narrative and game design. They must also be able to work well in collaboration with developers, who often have a strong voice in shaping the final product.
5. Do you have any previous experience in writing for video games specifically? If so, please describe that experience.
I started writing for video games while I was in college, doing freelance work for a small studio in the Midwest. I mostly wrote dialogue and character bios, but I also had a hand in designing some of the game's levels. A few years later, I moved to Los Angeles and started working at a larger studio. I was initially a Quality Assurance Tester, but after proving myself, I was eventually promoted to a writer/designer position. Over the past six years, I've worked on over a dozen titles, including several high-profile AAA games. My experience ranges from writing comedy sketches for an MMO to coming up with intricate backstory for a superhero game. I'm confident that my skills would be a valuable asset on any video game project.
6. Which aspects of a video game do you think are most important to write well? Story, setting, characters, dialogue, or something else entirely?
While there are many elements that make up a well-crafted video game, I believe the most important aspect to write well is the story. The story sets the tone and determines the overall feel of the game. It introduces the setting, the characters, and establishes the motivations for why they are doing what they are doing. The dialogue needs to be believable and engaging in order to keep players interested in what is happening. If any of these elements are weak, it can ruin the entire experience for players.
7. Have you ever played a video game that you felt had great writing? If so, what made it great for you?
I've definitely played video games with great writing! I think what makes games with great writing so great is that the player can really get drawn into the story and feel like they're a part of it. I think my favorite game with great writing is probably Bioshock Infinite. The world is so rich and detailed, and I felt like I was really a part of it by the end. The plot was twisty and unpredictable, but still made total sense, and I loved all of the characters.
8. How do you think the interactivity of video games changes the way writers need to approach their work?
I think that the interactivity of video games changes the way writers need to approach their work in a few ways. For one, video games allow for a more immersive experience, which means that writers need to pay more attention to creating a world that feels real and engaging. Additionally, video games are often character-based, so writers need to make sure that their characters are well-developed and interesting. Finally, video games are constantly evolving, so writers need to be prepared to change their stories to keep up with the latest trends.
9. Are there any specific techniques or tools that you use when writing for video games that you find especially helpful?
When writing for video games, I find it helpful to come up with a storyboard or outline of the game. This helps me to plan out the flow of the game and make sure that each scene and level progresses the story. I also find it helpful to come up with character sketches and designs. This helps me to create believable and interesting characters that players will enjoy interacting with. Finally, I often use specific software programs like Unity or Unreal to help create the actual game levels and scenes.
10. What do you think are the most important skills a writer can have when writing for video games?
Writing for video games is a unique and challenging medium that requires a variety of skills. The most important skills a writer can have when writing for video games are empathy, creativity, and flexibility. Empathy is key because it allows writers to understand the player’s experience and put themselves in their shoes. This understanding allows the writer to create scenarios and characters that the player can relate to and become emotionally invested in. Creativity is important because it allows writers to come up with interesting and original ideas that help keep players engaged. A video game writer needs to be able to come up with new and different storylines, characters, and settings on a regular basis. Flexibility is important because it enables writers to adapt to the many changes that often occur during the
What does a Video Game Writer do?
A video game writer is a professional who creates the story, dialogue, and other text for a video game. They work with the game's designers and developers to come up with a cohesive narrative that engages players and enhances the gaming experience. Writers usually have a strong background in creative writing, theater, or film production.
What to look for in a Video Game Writer?
When hiring a video game writer, look for someone with expertise in writing video games and who has a strong understanding of the gaming industry. Additionally, look for someone who is creative and can write engaging storylines that will keep players engaged.
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