Pirates of the Caribbean: Writing Across Game Platforms

Speakers: Jeff Gomez, Matt Costello, Mike Goslin, Sande Chen, Ted Elliott

Track: Game Design

Format: Panel

Experience Level: Intermediate

Description: Presented by the New Media Caucus of the Writers Guild of America, west (WGAw), this Pirates of the Caribbean themed panel explores the craft of writing from traditional screenplay through increasingly immersive forms of interactive entertainment. Starting with the blockbuster movies, the panelists explore the methods and choices that enabled them to build on the compelling story and memorable characters of the original property. The key to successfully adapting an existing property across different platforms is in knowing how to blend these elements into a design that offers the best possible player experience. Our panelists discuss how developers can accomplish that by examining the craft of writing and how to balance story, gameplay, and player volition.

Idea Takeaway: Attendees learn the important elements in creating vivid worlds and characters that live on in different story media. In addition, they gain insight into the specific issues pertaining to writing for different game platforms.

Intended Audience: This session would interest creative executives, designers, writers, and producers interested in the craft of writing and how writing can propel quality in a product. Basic knowledge of the principles of screenwriting is a prerequisite.