The Corner of Story and Game

In this episode of The Corner of Story and Game, returning guest Willem Delventhal joins us for our year-end conversation, looking back on what 2025 taught us and looking ahead to what it will take to thrive in 2026 as indie creators.

Quick note up front: this episode was recorded at the start of the new year, and it’s coming out later than planned. That one is on us. Life got loud, timelines got messy, and this finale slipped. Thanks for sticking with me!

In the conversation, Willem and I dig into what actually moves the needle for small teams. Discipline, deadlines, and building systems that help you ship. We talk about the difference between being inspired and being consistent, why indie work often lives or dies on follow-through, and how to keep making games when the industry feels shaky.

🎯 Topics Include:

• What we’re carrying forward from 2025 into 2026
• Discipline and momentum for indie creators
• Deadlines, structure, and the reality of shipping
• How to stay creatively rebellious without burning out
• Community, support systems, and building what you love
• Practical advice for creators who feel stuck or behind

👤 Guest: Willem Delventhal, indie developer, community builder, and founder of the Indie Game Academy📌 Perfect for: Indie developers, narrative designers, solo creators, small teams, and anyone trying to build a sustainable creative practice in games.

In this episode of The Corner of Story and Game, I sit down with Batuhan Gözlüklü for a conversation about quest design, narrative ownership, and what it means to earn creative control one decision at a time. We talk about how missions and objectives become the backbone of player experience, how narrative can stay present at every layer of development, and why “healthy escapism” might be one of the most underrated design goals we have.

Together, we dig into how a narrative designer can think like a systems builder, how to avoid story getting flattened into “just content,” and how to keep meaning and emotion alive even when scope, tools, or production realities get tight. Batuhan also shares what he is building with his studio Newmind Interactive, including the mindset behind shipping small, polished releases as stepping stones toward bigger worlds.

🎯 Topics Include:

• Quest design as narrative structure, not just task lists
• Building player motivation through objectives, pacing, and payoff
• Keeping narrative connected across design decisions and production constraints
• How to grow creative ownership and influence over time
• What “healthy escapism” looks like in practice, and why it matters

👤 Guest: Batuhan Gözlüklü, game writer and narrative designer, and co-founder of Newmind Interactive.

📌 Perfect for: Narrative designers, quest designers, indie developers, tabletop creators, and anyone trying to build worlds that actually hold onto the player.

In this episode of The Corner of Story and Game, we sit down with Kristi Eckert to talk about the thing that quietly solves (or breaks) narrative in development: communication. Kristi shares how story problems often start as people problems, and why collaboration, trust, and shared language across disciplines matter just as much as craft on the page.

Together, we dig into what narrative designers can do to stay in the loop, reduce friction between teams, and keep story connected to the reality of production. Whether you are writing dialogue, shaping quests, or trying to keep narrative from being the first thing cut when schedules tighten, this conversation is full of practical takeaways for how to show up, speak up, and help the whole team ship a better game.

🎯 Topics Include:

• Why narrative breakdowns are often communication breakdowns
• Building trust and shared language across design, art, and engineering
• How to keep story aligned when priorities and scope shift
• Getting narrative into the room earlier, and staying there
• What collaboration looks like when it is working
• Practical ways to prevent story from being the first thing cut

👤 Guest: Kristi Eckert, narrative designer and writer focused on cross team collaboration and human-centered storytelling in game development

📌 Perfect for: Narrative designers, writers, quest designers, producers, and anyone trying to build better stories inside real development constraints.

In this episode of The Corner of Story and Game, returning guest Brady Sadler joins us for a wide-ranging conversation about worldbuilding, creative identity, and what it looks like to grow into a maker who works across mediums. Brady has been on a prolific run with his novels, while also co-designing board games and helping launch a publishing company with his brother.

Together, we explore how a story world evolves when it has to live in multiple forms, and how that process can reveal the shape of a creator’s voice. If you are building a setting, a series, or a game, this episode is a grounded look at how to map the territory of “you” while still shipping work and staying excited.

Quick note for context: this conversation was recorded in early December and sat on the shelf a bit due to technical issues. Since we recorded, Brady has release the book he talks about in the beginning of the interview.

🎯 Topics Include:

• Worldbuilding as a mirror for creative identity
• Turning a single idea into a story world that can support multiple projects
• What changes when you move between novels and tabletop design
• Collaboration with family and creative partners
• Sustaining momentum through long arcs of making
• Building a publishing path alongside the creative work

👤 Guest: Brady Sadler, fantasy novelist, tabletop designer, and co-founder of Twin Tale Studios.

📌 Perfect for: Worldbuilders, narrative designers, indie creators, tabletop designers, writers, and anyone trying to build a creative life that can grow without losing its core.

In this episode of The Corner of Story and Game, returning guest Ashley Poprik joins us for a candid, craft-focused conversation about how fanfiction, forums, and community storytelling can become real training grounds for professional narrative work.

We talk about how writing inside existing worlds teaches voice, structure, collaboration, and feedback loops, and how those skills translate directly into building story for games.

Quick note for context: this conversation was recorded in early December and sat on the shelf a bit due to technical issues. Since we recorded, Destiny 2’s latest expansion has released, and Ashley has shared that she was selected for Forbes 30 Under 30, plus she will be giving a GDC talk this year.

🎯 Topics Include:

• How fanfiction builds craft, speed, and confidence
• Turning franchise writing skills into career momentum
• Community feedback, comments, and why “not reading anything” is not always the answer
• Collaboration lessons learned from forums and shared storytelling spaces
• Distilling the core emotion of a story, even inside established IP
• Why pros should keep writing weird little passion projects

👤 Guest: Ashley Poprik, narrative designer and writer, known for her work in franchise storytelling and for speaking publicly about fanfiction and professional game writing

📌 Perfect for: Narrative designers, game writers, fanfiction writers who want to go pro, and anyone trying to sharpen their craft through community, iteration, and storytelling fundamentals.

In this episode of The Corner of Story and Game, we sit down with David Gallaher to talk about Creatures and Cocktails, an immersive Dungeons and Dragons experience built to feel welcoming, premium, and deeply communal. David shares how his background across games and comics shaped the way he thinks about “ramp up,” onboarding, and reducing lore overload so new players can jump in without feeling lost.

Together, we explore what changes when D and D becomes a live, hosted experience. How you design for comfort and confidence, how you fight choice paralysis, and why the real goal is not telling people a story, but helping a table build a shared one. If you care about narrative design, live play, or building experiences that make people feel seen, this conversation has a lot to steal.

Topics Include:

• Creating a strong “on ramp” for new players without dumping lore
• Designing immersive tabletop experiences that feel premium
• Reducing choice paralysis while preserving player agency
• Building community rules and values that protect the table
• Why shared authorship creates ownership and deeper play

👤 Guest: David Gallaher, writer and creator working across comics and games, and a driving force behind Creatures and Cocktails, an immersive Dungeons and Dragons experience

📌 Perfect for: Narrative designers, tabletop creators, indie devs, GMs, and anyone curious about immersive RPG experiences and live storytelling design.

In this episode of The Corner of Story and Game, I'm joined by Chris Tran - a narrative designer, esports leader, educator, and creative strategist - for a rich conversation about building a resilient career grounded in values, adaptability, and community.

Chris shares how his professional journey, from law school to esports management, and eventually narrative design, has been guided by empathy, mentorship, and the desire to create space for others.

Together, we explore what it means to design a life that can withstand upheaval, thrive through change, and stay aligned with your creative core.

🎯 Topics Include:

• How storytelling frameworks can shape career decisions
• Navigating pivots across disciplines and roles
• Mentorship as a narrative and professional tool
• Human-centered design in games and leadership
• Designing a career that reflects your personal values

👤 Guest: Chris Tran, narrative designer, former Head of Esports (SEA, Hong Kong, Taiwan), and mentor/strategist with a focus on education and inclusive design

📌 Perfect for: Narrative designers, creative professionals, career changers, and anyone building a values-driven path in the game industry.

Where to find Chris:

In this episode of The Corner of Story and Game, returning guest Scott Rogers -- game designer, author, and educator -- joins us for a deep dive into the power of prototyping. From his roots in video games to his current focus on board game design, Scott shares how early testing and iteration drive creative clarity, strengthen pitches, and shape player experience.

Together, we explore how functional and attractive prototypes are not just tools for refinement, but essential components of storytelling, development, and even day-to-day creative thinking. Whether you’re building your first board game or designing narrative systems for digital worlds, this episode offers valuable lessons on starting early, testing often, and learning fast.

🎯 Topics Include:

• Why prototyping is a storytelling tool
• Lessons from translating ideas into testable formats
• Making prototypes pitch-ready
• The emotional value of hands-on iteration
• How prototyping influences creative thinking beyond games

👤 Guest: Scott Rogers, Game designer (God of War, Pac-Man World), author (Level Up!, Swipe This!), and instructor at the New York Film Academy

📌 Perfect for: Narrative designers, indie creators, game developers, and anyone exploring how structure and experimentation shape creative identity.

Where to find Scott:

In this episode of The Corner of Story and Game, we sit down with Winter Mullenix and Tormod MacLean to explore what it really means to tell stories in open-world, player-driven spaces. Together, we dig into the challenges and opportunities of crafting narrative in sandbox MMOs, where story doesn’t come from scripted quests alone, but from the players themselves.

Winter and Tormod share insights from their work on large-scale projects, unpacking how narrative design can survive (and even thrive) in worlds defined by freedom.

Whether you're building your first open-world game or looking for ways to weave narrative meaning into systems-driven experiences, this episode will help you think differently about what “story” really means in a sandbox MMO.

Where to find Winter & Tormod:

In this episode of The Corner of Story and Game, we sit down with Sagar Beroshi, Principal Narrative Designer at The Chinese Room. Together, we unpack what it really means to write horror when you're working without a blockbuster budget, and why narrative constraints can be an unexpected ally.

Sagar shares the realities of writing in a system where your cutscene might get cut, your VO might vanish, and your fallback might be a single line of environmental text. But through all of it, one thing remains: the emotional core of fear and the creativity it takes to build it.

From writing on a sliding scale of scope, to finding horror in humanity, to surviving the cascade of shifting narrative tools, this conversation is packed with wisdom for game writers navigating the edge between ambition and reality.

Whether you're working on your first indie horror game or juggling narrative priorities in a larger production pipeline, this one’s for you.

Where to find Sagar:

In this episode of The Corner of Story and Game, returning guest Joshua Rubin, veteran narrative designer (Destiny, Assassin’s Creed, The Walking Dead, Telltale), joins us to unpack the chaos, creativity, and continuity of transmedia worldbuilding.

We dive into:

This episode explores how narrative fragments can still add up to something deeply human, and why worldbuilders should lean into complexity, not away from it.

Whether you’re writing comics, games, or something no one's seen before, this one is packed with insight.

In a world of expansive IPs, player agency, and multi-format storytelling, how do you keep a narrative consistent without strangling its potential?

This week on The Corner of Story and Game, we sit down with Jesse Scoble, a veteran narrative designer and worldbuilder whose career spans Assassin’s Creed, Hyper Scape, City of Heroes, and even TTRPGs and now comics!

We explore the art and craft of narrative canon, and the question "what survives when a story jumps from game to comic to RPG and back again?" Jesse shares his experiences writing for different formats, how player agency complicates authorial intent, and what it means to write "between the lines" of existing universes. Along the way, we may talk a bit about his new comic endeavour, Dead Money.

Whether you’re working on your own transmedia project or just fascinated by how worlds evolve across platforms, this episode is packed with insight.

🧭 We discuss:

• How to balance narrative canon with player freedom

• What must stay stable when stories cross formats

• Lessons from AAA games, TTRPGs, and comics

• How to guide a team through narrative complexity
• The role of ambiguity in worldbuilding

This week on The Corner of Story and Game, I’m joined by Willem Delventhal, game designer, narrative advocate, and founder of The Indie Game Academy. Together we dive into the practical and philosophical challenges facing new studios as they plan and scope their first game ... with narrative fully in the picture.

We explore:

• The dangers of building too big, too soon.
• When (and how) to bring narrative into early development.
• What junior founders are doing right, and wrong, when starting out.
• Narrative as risk and reward.
• Why starting small doesn’t mean giving up story.

This episode is essential listening for indie founders, narrative designers, and anyone launching their first project.

Where to find Willem:

In this episode of The Corner of Story and Game, we explore how music moves the narrative needle.

Composer Nikita Malko joins us to discuss the vital, often invisible role music plays in shaping the player’s emotional journey. From his early metal roots to scoring indie and AA video games like Volgarr the Viking II and Inn Keeper, Nikita shares how soundtracks are more than just background, they are worldbuilders, storytellers, and emotional guides.

We talk about:

• How composers translate story into sound

• The emotional logic behind leitmotifs and atmosphere

• Collaboration with game designers and narrative teams

• Tips for writing music that supports, rather than overshadows, gameplay

• Why restraint and silence matter just as much as melody

Whether you're a developer, composer, or narrative nerd, this episode will deepen your appreciation for the sonic side of storytelling.

Where to find Nikita:

In this episode of The Corner of Story and Game, acclaimed author and narrative designer Graham McNeill takes us inside the creative process of working within some of the most iconic IPs in games and fiction.

From Warhammer 40K and StarCraft to Warhammer: Age of Sigmar and beyond, Graham shares how limitations from established worlds can spark unexpected creativity, and why “staying true” doesn’t mean “staying safe.”

We explore:

🌍 The art of worldbuilding inside beloved universes,

🛠 How constraints can push innovation in narrative design,

🎭 Balancing lore fidelity with fresh storytelling,

🎮 Translating established worlds into different game genres, and

🖋 Tips for writers stepping into existing IP for the first time.

Whether you’re crafting stories in your own universe or working inside a legendary franchise, this conversation offers a masterclass in turning boundaries into opportunities.

Where to find Graham:

What happens when you have to build an entire world on the spot? In this episode of The Corner of Story and Game, we sit down with Jesse Theiler, the creator behind The Dungeon Cocktail Experience, to explore the art of worldbuilding in real time.

Jesse shares how his background in improv and D&D has shaped his approach to storytelling, including how he engages players in collaborative narrative design and the tools he uses to maintain consistency in worlds that are being built on the fly.

Whether you’re a game designer, GM, or writer, you’ll walk away with actionable insights into:

📜 How to turn improvisation into immersive worldbuilding📜 Balancing player agency with narrative coherence

📜 Tools and techniques for remembering and reusing world details📜 Using real-world inspiration to ground fantastical settings

This conversation is packed with practical advice for anyone designing living, breathing worlds in tabletop or digital games.

Listen in to learn how to stay creative under pressure and craft experiences that feel dynamic, surprising, and alive.

Where to find Jesse:

When you think of game writing, you might picture dialogue, cutscenes, and lore text. But what about the writing players never see? The systems, character briefs, and background details that shape how we feel and play without ever showing up on screen?

In this episode of The Corner of Story and Game, narrative designer and returning guest Richard Dansky joins us to break down the “invisible” side of game writing. We explore how narrative design works behind the scenes to connect systems, mechanics, and player experience ... and why this work is essential to building games that resonate.

We talk about:🧩 The difference between narrative design and traditional writing.

🎮 How systems and mechanics can carry story without dialogue.

📜 Why behind-the-scenes writing matters for worldbuilding and collaboration.

🧠 Balancing writerly control with player agency.

⚙️ How writers can design emotional experiences without relying on cutscenes.

Whether you’re a game writer, narrative designer, or just fascinated by the craft of games, this episode will give you a deeper appreciation for the unseen work that shapes player experience.

Where to Find Richard:

🎙 In this episode of The Corner of Story and Game, narrative designer and indie developer Ian Lynch joins us to explore the power of environmental storytelling and quest design, and how these tools can create deeply personal player experiences.

Drawing on his work in narrative design, systems thinking, and indie studio leadership, Ian guides us through the invisible art of storytelling, exploring world details, quest structure, and player-driven exploration. Whether you’re designing a sprawling RPG or a tightly scoped experience, this conversation offers clear insights into how to guide emotion without overdirecting.

We talk about:

🏹 Using quests to shape player identity

🌲 Designing worlds that feel emotionally alive

🎯 Balancing subtle narrative cues with clear player goals

🎮 Why minimalism in storytelling can enhance immersion

💬 What not saying can do for emotional weightWhether you're a game writer, narrative designer, or indie dev shaping worlds on a budget, Ian offers a grounded, systems-aware perspective that makes this episode a must-listen.

Where to Find Ian:

🎙 In this episode of The Corner of Story and Game, game designer, educator, and Latinx in Gaming co-founder Elaine Gómez joins us to explore a vital and evolving question in the industry: How do we build inclusion into the design of games - mechanically, narratively, and structurally?

Drawing from her extensive work in both AAA and indie spaces, Elaine breaks down how inclusive game design goes beyond representation. It’s about integrating player perspective, cultural authenticity, and systemic accessibility into the very foundation of your game, starting at the design table.

We talk about:🎮 How to embed inclusion into game mechanics and player experience.📚 The role of cultural consultants and why representation must be intentional.🛠️ What indie studios can do from day one to prioritize inclusive practices.🧠 How narrative and systems can work together to reflect lived realities.🌍 Why inclusive design is not a trend, it’s good game design.Whether you’re a narrative designer, systems thinker, or indie dev, this episode will give you practical tools and strategic insight to build better, more inclusive games from the ground up.

Where to Find Elaine:

🎙 In this episode of The Corner of Story and Game, award-winning writer and game designer Matt Forbeck joins us once more. This time, to explore what levelling systems and rulebooks can teach us about narrative design, especially when it comes to onboarding players in video games.

Matt draws from decades of experience writing novels, tabletop RPGs, and game scripts to unpack how mechanics and prose work together to guide players emotionally, thematically, and structurally through a game. From early-game tutorials to milestone-based storytelling, we look at how progression systems and well-written rules can become powerful narrative tools.

We talk about:

📘 Why rulebook prose matters for immersion and tone

🎮 How leveling systems mirror character arcs

🧠 Designing onboarding moments that feel earned, not forced

📚 Narrative strategies drawn from TTRPGs that work in digital games

💬 Lessons from decades of cross-medium storytellingWhether you're writing your first game tutorial or refining a player’s early-game experience, this episode offers actionable advice from a master storyteller who’s helped shape everything from Dungeons & Dragons to bestselling game novels.

Where to Find Matt:

🎙 In this episode of The Corner of Story and Game, award-winning author, storyteller, and TTRPG writer Marie Bilodeau joins us to explore a foundational but often overlooked question in narrative design: How do you take something deeply personal and shape it into a story that connects with a broader audience, especially in games?

Marie shares lessons from her career writing speculative fiction, performing personal stories across Canada, and contributing to tabletop RPGs. Together, we break down the narrative craft of turning memory into meaning, balancing vulnerability with structure, and writing with emotional impact across formats.

We talk about:✍️ How to tell personal stories that resonate in game worlds and beyond.🎭 The power of live performance in sharpening narrative timing and tone.🛠️ Practical tips for narrative designers drawing from real experiences.📚 Why knowing your emotional beats matters more than getting the facts “right."🧩 How storytelling in novels, TTRPGs, and festivals cross-pollinate.

Whether you’re a narrative designer, game writer, indie dev, or creative storyteller, this episode is filled with actionable insights to elevate your storycraft and broaden your narrative toolkit.

Where to Find Marie:

In this episode of The Corner of Story and Game, writer, educator, and cross-media storyteller David Gallaher joins us to explore one of the most nuanced challenges in narrative design: how to create emotionally grounded characters that hold up, regardless of the medium.

David draws from his work on comics like High Moon and The Only Living Boy, as well as his narrative leadership on games like Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Breakpoint, to outline what he calls the character’s “fire, scar, and lie.” This powerful framework offers writers and designers a durable, emotional blueprint for characters that need to live across formats from the page to the controller to the streaming screen.

We talk about:🔥 What it means to design for emotional resonance🛠️ Translating character arcs from comics to games (and back)🎮 How player choice shapes narrative weight🧠 Crafting stories that adapt without losing their emotional spine🌍 Why shared authorship with the audience is the future of storytelling

Whether you're a game writer, narrative designer, comic creator, or story-forward worldbuilder, this conversation is packed with insight, clarity, and grounded advice.

In this episode of The Corner of Story and Game, we welcome back the endlessly creative Ryan Omega, who is a producer, performer, LARP designer, and now the mastermind behind Taskmaster LA. But this isn’t just a behind-the-scenes on a fan-made panel show. It’s a deep dive into what it means to design games for performance, and the unique role that playtesting for watchability plays in that process.

From crafting visually engaging challenges to navigating cast dynamics and live audience feedback, Ryan reveals how every layer of the Taskmaster LA experience was engineered not just to be fun, but to delight both players and viewers.

What can digital game designers, TTRPG GMs, and interactive storytellers learn from a live-audience-first approach? Quite a lot, it turns out.

We talk about:

• Casting as a game design tool

• Designing challenges with visual hooks

• Managing emotional safety and creative risk

• Why live audiences sharpen storytelling

• What makes a moment rewatchable, and why that matters

Whether you’re building a game, producing a show, or crafting a session for your home table, this episode will give you a whole new lens for thinking about entertainment value as a design principle.

In this episode of The Corner of Story and Game, we welcome LARP designer, writer, and educator Aaron Vanek to explore how live-action role-playing techniques can enrich traditional tabletop RPGs and narrative game design.

Aaron walks us through the foundations of LARP, its philosophical pillars, and how these ideas translate into immersive storytelling experiences. From seance room horror sessions to swamp scenes complete with dry ice and frog sounds, Aaron’s approach shows how a multisensory experience can elevate player engagement, emotional investment, and story resonance—whether you're designing a homebrew module or working on a commercial RPG.

Topics include:🎭 What makes LARP unique as a narrative form.🛠️ Using props, locations, and the five senses in tabletop games.🎮 Lessons LARP can teach digital game writers.👥 How NPC design can evolve with shared performance and improvisation.🔥 The difference between “suspending disbelief” and “imposing belief”.

Plus: insight into Aaron’s teaching, his passion projects, and his involvement with Spectacular Disaster Factory, as well as the upcoming Dreamland RPG and more.

This is an episode for anyone who wants to bring more presence, participation, and powerful play into their storytelling practice.

🎧 Listen now and step into the narrative bubble.

What does it take to add something meaningful to a world that millions already hold close to their hearts?

In this episode of The Corner of Story and Game, host Gerald Ford welcomes back the always insightful Jim Zub. Jim is a comic writer, narrative designer, and longtime steward of iconic characters across franchises like Conan the Barbarian, Dungeons & Dragons, Avengers, and more.

Together, they explore the delicate craft of adaptive storytelling:
🔹 How to honour an established universe while still bringing your voice to the work.
🔹 Where to find narrative space for new ideas without breaking canon.
🔹 How to navigate fan expectations, editorial guidelines, and creative ambition.
🔹 Why emotional truth matters more than encyclopedic accuracy.
🔹 And how working within constraints can actually unlock deeper creativity.

Whether you’re a narrative designer, a game writer, or simply someone fascinated by how stories evolve across generations, this episode dives deep into the art, and the responsibility, of storytelling inside shared worlds.

What does it really mean to be a narrative designer in today’s game industry, and how is that role evolving to meet the moment?

In this episode of The Corner of Story and Game, we are joined by game writer and narrative designer Ashley Poprik, whose work spans iconic titles like Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 and Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, and now continues at Bungie on Destiny 2.

Together, we explore the shifting landscape of narrative design: from being the lone writer in the room to becoming an essential collaborator across systems, UX, VO, and level design. Ashley shares insight into how she adapts story to structure, balances player experience with emotional resonance, and why empathy, flexibility, and production awareness are just as vital as good prose.

✨ Why narrative designers need to learn game design🎧 What it means to be in the room for VO sessions🎮 How to “kill your darlings” in collaborative pipelines🧩 Why strong writing isn’t enough; you need systems fluency, too

Whether you're a working narrative designer, a hopeful game writer, or a multidisciplinary storyteller, this episode is packed with practical wisdom and industry perspective.

What does it mean to design with intention,and how do you build games that are not just fun, but deeply resonant?

In this episode of The Corner of Story and Game, I sit down with longtime game designer Andy Ashcraft to explore how experience, values, and player psychology shape the games we make. With decades in the industry and a passion for participatory design, Andy brings a rich perspective on crafting mechanics that serve storytelling, create emotional impact, and invite collaboration.

🕹️ Discover the roots of Andy’s design philosophy

📐 Explore the line between entertainment and meaningful play

🎯 Learn how to align game systems with narrative intent

🧠 And get inspired by how clarity of purpose can elevate your game designs

Whether you’re a designer, writer, or just curious about how games can say something real, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

How do you keep a character feeling human when players can change everything?

In this episode of The Corner of Story and Game, I am joined by veteran narrative designer Emily Grace Buck for a masterclass in crafting emotionally authentic character arcs within branching RPG narratives.

With experience spanning Telltale Games, EA DICE, and a lifetime in storytelling, Emily shares the tools, psychology, and hard-earned wisdom behind creating characters who feel real, even as their paths diverge wildly based on player choice.

🎭 Learn how acting theory informs dialogue writing,🧠 Explore character “rails” that support branching without losing cohesion,📌 Discover how production realities shape narrative scope,💬 And hear why roleplaying games (and Post-it notes!) are invaluable tools for writers.

This one’s for the storytellers, the worldbuilders, and anyone who wants their characters to stay grounded, no matter how wild the narrative ride becomes.

In this episode of The Corner of Story and Game, we dig into the gentle rhythm and thoughtful design of idle games with indie game developer Ayla Derrick. As the founder of Cave Bear Games, a studio built entirely by junior developers, Ayla brings a fresh and inclusive perspective to the gaming landscape.

We explore Plantasia, Cave Bear’s debut title, a cozy solarpunk idle game that blends environmental restoration with low-pressure gameplay. Ayla shares insights into designing games for accessibility, creating spaces that appeal to underrepresented audiences (including “games for girls”), and what it means to build a development culture grounded in learning and collaboration.

Whether you're a narrative designer, a curious gamer, or an aspiring indie dev, this episode offers valuable thoughts on how storytelling, mechanics, and mission-driven development intersect in today’s evolving game industry.

🌱 Get inspired by the quiet revolution of idle games and the bright minds shaping their future.

In this episode of The Corner of Story and Game, I welcome back narrative designer and comic book writer Kelly Bender for a deep-dive into one of the most crucial skills in storytelling: finding your voice, and your characters' voices! Kelly shares stories from his early days running creative programs for kids, to building dynamic characters in digital games and comics. Whether you’re a narrative designer, an aspiring writer, or just a fan of character-driven storytelling, this conversation offers insight, inspiration, and a few laughs along the way.

Don’t miss this episode if you’ve ever wondered:

• When does a writer "find their voice"?
• How do you make game characters sound unique and believable?
• What role does life experience play in shaping voice?

💬 Join the conversation on Discord: https://discord.gg/RQtBgWaUT4

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more!

In this episode of The Corner of Story and Game, I sit down with Whitney Beltrán, a talented narrative designer and writer with deep expertise in myth-inspired storytelling. We dive into the fascinating intersection of mythology and games, exploring how mythic narratives resonate with players on a psychological level. Whitney shares insights on how myths serve as mirrors for self-discovery, personal growth, and identity exploration.

We also touch on the importance of creating immersive, emotionally engaging stories that draw on archetypal patterns, and how narrative designers can craft worlds and characters that evoke deep emotional responses. From designing cathartic moments to the delicate balance between player agency and mythic structure, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in narrative design, game development, or the power of myth in interactive media.

Whitney also shares her exciting work in both the video game and tabletop spaces, giving us a glimpse of the magic she's currently crafting. Don’t miss out on this compelling conversation about the stories that shape us.

💬 Join the conversation on Discord: https://discord.gg/RQtBgWaUT4

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more!

In this episode of The Corner of Story and Game, we return to our exploration of the Lenses of Game Design, looking at the balance between two critical perspectives - Imagination and Elegance.

Joining me is J. Isaac Gadient, a talented game designer whose work bridges narrative design, gameplay mechanics, and immersive world-building. Together, we break down how Imagination fuels creativity and world-building, while Elegance ensures clarity, simplicity, and engaging playability.

How do designers strike the right balance between expansive, imaginative worlds and intuitive, elegant mechanics? What lessons can we learn from games that excel at this delicate dance? Isaac shares insights and offers practical takeaways for game designers, writers, and storytellers.

Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that will change how you think about crafting compelling game experiences.

💬 Join the conversation on Discord: https://discord.gg/RQtBgWaUT4

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more!

In this episode of The Corner of Story and Game, we’re joined by Christie Golden, a master of Transmedia Storytelling. Christie has penned some of the most beloved narratives in World of Warcraft, Star Wars, and Halo, and in this episode, she shares her expertise in crafting stories that span across games, books, and other forms of media.

We explore how interconnected worlds can deepen fan engagement and expand the reach of storytelling, from video game quests to novels and comics. Christie discusses:

• The challenges and rewards of writing stories that live across multiple platforms.
• How a well-crafted game universe can evolve through books and other media, creating a richer experience
• The unique balance between creativity and consistency when working across diverse formats.

Christie also reflects on her personal journey and the fascinating world of narrative cohesion across different formats in the gaming world. If you’ve ever wondered how great stories can transcend boundaries, this episode is for you.

💬 Join the conversation on Discord: https://discord.gg/RQtBgWaUT4

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more!

In this episode of The Corner of Story and Game, we’re diving deep into environmental storytelling with game design veteran Will Shen. Will, a lead designer at Unknown Worlds Entertainment, shares his wealth of experience in open-world narrative design, from his time working on Starfield and Skyrim to his current role.

We explore how the environment itself can tell a story, adding layers of depth and history to the player’s experience. Will discusses the crucial elements of level design, pacing, and set dressing that make environmental storytelling work, and how players engage with spaces to uncover hidden lore.

Whether you’re a narrative designer, level designer, or simply a fan of immersive storytelling in games, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the intersection of worldbuilding, gameplay mechanics, and narrative.

Don’t miss this one!

💬 Join the conversation on Discord: https://discord.gg/RQtBgWaUT4

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more!

How can games make us feel something real? In this episode of The Corner of Story and Game, we sit down with Kelly Bender, Lead Narrative Designer, to explore the powerful fusion of storytelling and gameplay mechanics. From high-stakes boss battles to subtle emotional beats, we break down how narrative and game design can work together to create unforgettable player experiences.

Kelly shares insights from his career, examples of strong emotional moments in games, and techniques designers can use to craft deeper player connections. If you want to enhance storytelling in your games, this episode is packed with valuable lessons and inspiration!

💬 Join the conversation on Discord: https://discord.gg/RQtBgWaUT4

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more!

How do you design a game where the player's choices truly shape the story? In this episode of The Corner of Story and Game, we sit down with Ryan Kaufman, veteran narrative designer behind The Walking Dead and The Wolf Among Us, to break down the mechanics of player-driven storytelling.

We discuss:
🔥 The challenges of balancing player agency and narrative structure
🧠 How theme and tone shape branching stories
🎭 The role of character development in interactive narratives
🔍 Tools and techniques for crafting meaningful choices
🎲 The impact of tabletop RPGs on video game storytelling

If you’re a narrative designer, game writer, or just love deep storytelling in games, this one’s for you!

💬 Join the conversation on Discord: https://discord.gg/RQtBgWaUT4

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more!

We're back with Season Three!

In this season opener, we dive deep into the relationship between UI/UX design and storytelling with Kat Craig, a talented UI/UX designer who has contributed to some major titles in the gaming world. Kat walks us through her career journey—from graphic design to breaking into the gaming industry—and shares how the user interface and user experience impact player immersion, engagement, and emotional connection to the game’s narrative.

We discuss the importance of creating seamless experiences for players, how UI elements can be used to enhance storytelling (think of games like Fallout with diegetic UI elements), and how to balance complexity with accessibility. Kat also shares her insights on collaborating with other disciplines—narrative, art, and design teams—to ensure that the player’s journey through a game is intuitive and enriching.

Key Takeaways:

• The essential role of UI/UX design in enhancing narrative experience.
• How the graphical design elements and environmental design can amplify storytelling.
• Insights into the balance between complexity and accessibility for diverse player bases.
• Real-world examples from Kat’s work, including contributions to Larian Studios' Baldur's Gate 3.
• How networking, internships, and personal projects can help aspiring designers break into the industry.

If you're a storyteller, game designer, or just someone curious about the behind-the-scenes work in game development, this episode will offer valuable insights that bridge the gap between design and narrative.

🎙️ The Wizard and His Crystal Ball: Looking Ahead to 2025

In the season finale of The Corner of Story and Game, we welcome back Willem Delventhal, the energetic founder of the Indie Game Academy. With 2025 on the horizon, Willem unveils his crystal ball to explore emerging trends in the gaming world, including the rise of AAA-lite titles, the future of user-generated content (UGC), and the push for inclusivity in storytelling.

💡 Willem also shares updates from the Indie Game Academy and the bold new initiatives they’re launching in 2025. Plus, we reveal the games we are most excited about in the coming year.

🌟 This finale is packed with insights, inspiration, and forward-thinking magic.

🔗 Join the conversation on our Discord server and share your predictions for 2025!

🎲 The Dice Decide 🎥

This week, Joseph Adams joins us to dive into the art of storytelling in tabletop role-playing games. As the creator of The Dice Decide, a cinematic D&D actual-play series, Joe shares his journey from cinematographer to Dungeon Master and community builder.

We explore:

• How Joe combined his passion for filmmaking and TTRPGs.

• The creative process behind crafting immersive worlds and characters.
• Challenges and triumphs of producing a high-quality live-play show.
• Why storytelling in games is a universal connector.

Plus, hear about Joe’s love for building communities, his theatre and film background, and a surprising twist in The Dice Decide series.

🎧 Tune in for a fascinating blend of creativity, passion, and game design insight! Don't miss this episode filled with inspiration for players and creators alike.

Welcome back, to The Corner of Story and Game. In this episode we chat about game design philosophy with Lauren Bond, Senior Narrative Game Designer at Wizards of the Coast. We explore two fascinating lenses from Jesse Schell's The Art of Game Design: the Lens of Expected Value and the Lens of Chance.

Lauren shares how these lenses influence her approach to worldbuilding, how randomness can enhance gameplay, and how to create meaningful player interactions through thoughtful design. From balancing skill and luck in RPGs to building immersive narratives in card games, this episode is a treasure trove of insights for creators and players alike.

🎙️ What’s Inside:

• Breaking down the Lens of Expected Value: How interactions shape player experiences.
• The Lens of Chance: Designing unpredictability to enhance fun.
• Insights into Magic: The Gathering’s worldbuilding and storytelling.
• How these lenses overlap to create unforgettable games.

Join us for this thought-provoking conversation, and get inspired to look at games through new perspectives!

🔗 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review The Corner of Story and Game. Follow us for updates and bonus content!

Welcome back to The Corner of Story and Game.

In this episode, we dive deep into the power of curiosity with Dan Felder, Game Design Director at Sky Castle Studios. With a rich career spanning Riot Games, Blizzard, and EA, Dan shares how curiosity serves as the cornerstone of effective game design and storytelling.

From exploring how curiosity keeps players engaged to mastering the balance between tension and intrigue, Dan delivers invaluable insights for game designers, DMs, and storytellers alike. Plus, we uncover how tabletop roleplaying games shaped Dan's design philosophy and discuss the lessons that games teach us about creating wonder and immersion.

🕹️ Key Topics:

• How curiosity drives engagement in games
• Narrative design lessons from tabletop RPGs
• Building tension and excitement through design

🔗 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review The Corner of Story and Game. Follow us for updates and bonus content!

Welcome back to The Corner of Story and Game.

In this episode, we dive deep into the intersection of storytelling, game development, and marketing with the talented Galen Scorer, a seasoned expert in crafting compelling narratives that resonate with players.

Galen shares insights on why marketing should be integrated into the development process from the very beginning, how to connect with your audience emotionally, and the secrets behind creating trailers and promotional materials that captivate. He also explores how understanding your game's story can drive player engagement and set your game apart in a crowded market.

Whether you're a game developer, storyteller, or marketer, this episode is packed with actionable advice and thought-provoking discussions to level up your projects.

Key Topics Covered:

• The role of storytelling in marketing a game.
• How to capture a game's emotional core in promotional materials.
• Balancing creativity with the practicalities of game marketing.
• Behind-the-scenes stories from Galen’s experiences in the industry.

Tune in for an engaging conversation that bridges the gap between creativity and strategy in the world of games!

🔗 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review The Corner of Story and Game. Follow us for updates and bonus content!

Welcome back to The Corner of Story and Game.

In this episode, we dive deep into the complexities of rewards and punishments in gameplay design with Alexander Brazie. From the grand scale of progression loops to the nuanced moment-to-moment decision-making, Alex shares insights into how players’ intrinsic and extrinsic motivations drive their engagement and mastery in games.

We explore:

• The anatomy of a gameplay loop and how rewards and punishments shape player behaviour.
• How game designers can balance challenge and progression to keep players hooked.
• The secret to creating a rewarding experience, whether it’s through moment-to-moment combat or long-term goals.
• The key differences between extrinsic rewards (like loot) and intrinsic rewards (like personal achievement) and how they contribute to game design.
• Why some of the most successful games allow players to forge their own paths and set their own goals.

Alex also touches on his past work at Riot Games, Blizzard, and more, sharing lessons learned from some of the industry’s most influential titles like World of Warcraft and Ori and the Will of the Wisps. Whether you’re a budding game designer or a passionate gamer, this episode is packed with insights that can shape your understanding of the reward-punishment balance in gaming.

Listen now and discover how the best gameplay loops don’t just challenge players—they let them grow, explore, and play in their own way.

Welcome back to The Corner of Story and Game.

In this episode, we sit down with Greg Tito, an author, screenwriter, and producer who served as Communications Manager for Dungeons & Dragons and remains a key figure in live-streamed tabletop gaming. Greg has a unique perspective on blending live events, storytelling, and the gaming experience, making this conversation a must-listen for fans of both tabletop and digital game design.

We dive deep into the magic of creating immersive live events, especially his work with The Stream of Many Eyes and how storytelling impacts player engagement. Greg shares valuable insights on crafting compelling narratives in live settings, how different types of media (from podcasts to video games) shape storytelling, and why understanding your audience is key to creating a meaningful experience.

We also explore the intricacies of balancing narrative and gameplay, touching on how to engage viewers through live content while respecting the narrative's integrity. Whether you’re a game designer, storyteller, or someone who loves immersive experiences, Greg’s behind-the-scenes knowledge and passion for interactive storytelling will inspire you.

Welcome back to The Corner of Story and Game.

In this episode we sit down with Jason Kingsley, co-founder of Rebellion Developments and an accomplished storyteller with a deep passion for history. Jason’s unique approach to game design blends historical research with narrative creativity.

In this episode:

- How historical moments and details inspire compelling narratives.

- The balance between historical accuracy and creative freedom.

- Jason’s personal experiences, including real-life jousting and medieval research.

Welcome back to The Corner of Story and Game!

In this episode I welcome back Richard Dansky, a prolific storyteller whose career spans video game narrative design, tabletop RPGs, and fiction writing. With contributions to iconic franchises like The Division, Splinter Cell, and Rainbow Six, and as the mastermind behind the 20th-anniversary edition of Wraith: The Oblivion, Richard brings unparalleled insights into the balance between creative perfection and practical deadlines.

Join us as we explore the age-old adage, “Done is better than perfect.” Richard shares candid stories of navigating the pressure cooker of game development, the struggle for perfection in personal projects, and the lessons learned from both successes and stumbles.

What We Discuss:

🌟 Balancing Perfection and Deadlines: Richard shares stories of navigating the tension between creative perfectionism and the need to meet deadlines.

🌟 The Power of Collaboration: How trust and teamwork between disciplines can spark unexpected innovations in game development.

🌟 Perfectionism Across Mediums: Insights into managing perfectionism in games, novels, and tabletop RPGs to keep projects moving forward.

🎧 Whether you're a creator battling perfectionism or a fan of the creative process, this episode offers valuable takeaways for everyone.

Welcome back to The Corner of Story and Game!

In this episode, we’re joined by the brilliant Alina Pete—Canadian author, illustrator, game designer, and storyteller.

Alina’s work masterfully blends Indigenous myths with modern narratives, creating a fresh perspective on storytelling that’s both rooted in tradition and forward-looking.

What We Discuss:

🌟 The concept of Indigenous Futurism: What it means to imagine Indigenous people thriving in the future.

🌟 Challenges and opportunities in weaving traditional myths into modern storytelling.

🌟 Alina’s personal journey from webcomics to preserving elder stories and mentoring young artists.

🌟 The role of Indigenous stories in shaping a hopeful vision for the future.

Alina shares insights into storytelling as a tool for hope, empowerment, and reimagining the world—a must-listen for creators, gamers, and storytellers alike.

🎧 Tune in now and discover how blending old and new narratives can inspire the next generation of stories.

Welcome back to The Corner of Story and Game!

In this episode, we dive into the art of creating unforgettable NPCs (Non-Player Characters) with two-time Emmy Award-winning writer Cam Baity. With a rich career spanning animation, television, and video games—including work on Team America, SpongeBob SquarePants, and Astroneer—Cam shares his insights into building characters that resonate deeply with players and audiences alike.

Together, we explore:
🔥 Key Elements of Memorable NPCs: What brings an NPC to life, both in digital games and at your D&D table.
🎭 Lessons from Storytelling Across Media: How Cam’s diverse background informs his approach to crafting characters.
🛠 Practical Tools and Techniques: Using archetypes, biographies, and player feedback to shape compelling narratives.
🌟 Behind the Scenes of Glitch Walkers: A peek into the latest Astroneer DLC and the evolution of its standout NPC, Frank.

Whether you're a game designer, writer, or storyteller at heart, this episode is packed with tips and inspiration to help you create characters that linger in the minds of your players.

🎧 Listen now and let us know what you think! And don't forget to subscribe.

Welcome back to The Corner of Story and Game!

This time around, I get to sit down and chat with the legendary Joe Morrissey, a narrative design veteran with a career spanning iconic studios like Rockstar Games, Blizzard, and Sucker Punch. Known for his work on groundbreaking titles such as Diablo II, Infamous: Second Son, and Ghost of Tsushima, Joe dives deep into the art of crafting unforgettable game stories.

Join us as we explore:

• Narrative Channels Explained: What they are, why they matter, and how to select the right one for your game.
• Behind the Scenes of Game Development: Joe’s inspiring career journey from IT support to game director.
• Storytelling Lessons from Tabletop Games: How early experiences with RPGs like Cyberpunk and World of Darkness shaped his narrative philosophy.
• Industry Insights: Examples of masterful storytelling techniques from titles like The Last of Us II and Firewatch.

Whether you're a game developer, narrative designer, or just someone who loves the magic of storytelling in games, this episode offers a treasure trove of advice and inspiration.

🎧 Tune in now and discover how the right narrative channel can elevate your gaming experience! Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share the love.

Welcome back to The Corner of Story and Game!

This time around, we are joined by John Ryan, an accomplished game writer and narrative designer. With extensive experience in the gaming industry, John brings invaluable insights into what it takes to build a successful writing career in game development. We'll explore the importance of strong writing foundations, the significance of curiosity in understanding the game-making process, and how to navigate feedback and personal identity in this ever-evolving field.