Extra Credit: Storytelling Analysis

We are returning to Anna Anthropy and Naomi Clark's book one last time for a subject we haven't discussed much this semester: the role of storytelling in games. 

This extra credit assignment is worth 15 points. It should be between 600-700 words.

Instead of choosing a game you already know, I would like you to browse Itch.io and try out a few games that are new to you. You are not required to pay for any games; there are plenty of great, free options.

Choose 5 games that seem interesting to you list their title and URL at the top of the essay. Spend at least 10-15 minutes with each to determine which one you'd like to analyze after a longer play session. (If none of these five will work, try others that might.) 

(Looking for a place to start? Browse some of these tag categories: magic, simulation, narrative, story rich, lgbt, adventure, futuristic, cute, female protagonist, non-violent.)

While you are playing the game you've chosen, take screenshots that illustrate interesting moments. You will include these in your essay.

Using Anthropy and Clark's chapter, analyze how story is (or, perhaps isn't used) in the game you've chosen. You should discuss each of these points and I have provided word counts as a guideline. 

• What story does the game want to tell? (50 words)
• Explain the difference between authored and emergent stories and then explain if your game is either one or the other (or a mix of both) and why. (100 words)
• What techniques does the game use to tell this story? (Look at the chapter's subheadings). Elaborate on each the apply. (350 words)
• Lastly, thinking as a game designer, come up with three things related to storytelling that you would have done differently if you were involved in the making of this game. (150 words)

Remember: I have likely never played the game you've chosen so you want to paint a picture of it using your words. Please include three screenshots as illustrations.

You should use at least five direct quotes from the reading to support your analysis. Rather than just using broad quotes such as "Perceiving stories is part of how we understand our world," you should choose specific quotes that are appropriate to the moment. Pick quotes deep within their paragraphs--the kind that don't just define the vocabulary but that expound upon an idea. 

Analysis is due Friday May 5th at 11:59pm to the Teams assignment folder.