Some games have deep, emotional stories. Others have simple setups like winning a tournament or escaping a maze. No matter how big or small, every game has a narrative — something that gives the player a reason to play.

Narrative Design is how the story of a game is told through its world, characters, and gameplay.

It can include:

• The main plot or story arc

• Characters and what they want

• The world and its history

• What the player is doing and why

Even simple games have a reason behind the action — and that reason is part of the narrative.

Narrative is especially important when:

• You want players to connect with characters

• You want the game to feel like part of a bigger world

• You want to give the player a clear goal or motivation

• You want the player to care about what happens

Sometimes, narrative is built into the gameplay. Other times, it’s told through cutscenes, dialogue, or even the environment itself.

You don’t always need a long backstory — but adding extra detail can make your game more interesting.

Here are some examples:

• A football game? You’re playing as a team trying to win a championship.

• A platformer? You’re a lost robot trying to find your creator.

• A puzzle game? You’re solving mysteries in an abandoned lab.

There is always more you can write.
Even if your game starts with a simple idea, think about how you can build on it. Ask: Why is the character doing this? What happens next? Who’s trying to stop them?

Below is a collection of prompts to help you explore character design. Simple answer the questions that apply to your characters.