The Corner of Story and Game
Gerald Ford
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The Corner of Story and Game is a podcast that explores the intersection of storytelling and gaming. Host Gerald Ford interviews worldbuilders, including game designers, writers, and comic book creators, about the narratives within board games, video games, novels, and comics. Each episode features conversations that delve into how stories are crafted and how games influence writing. The podcast aims to create a cozy space for listeners to discover new perspectives on creative worldbuilding.
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Willem Delventhal on The State of Indie Games: What We Take Into 2026 02.02.2026 33dkIn 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 2026Discipline and momentum for indie creatorsDeadlines, structure, and the reality of shippingHow to stay creatively rebellious without burning outCommunity, support systems, and building what you lovePractical 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.Willem's Links:-> YouTube-> LinkedIn-> Indie Game Academy-> IGA 2.0 Reveal Event on Feb 5th (Discord)-> IGA Cohort 0-> Whiskers, Wizards & Wands-> Daughter of the Rift-> The Box is AliveThe Corner of Story and Game:-> Discord-> Facebook-> Instagram-> Bluesky-> LinkedIn-> Email: gerald@storyandgame.com#IndieGameDev #GameDesign #NarrativeDesign #CreativeProcess #IndieGames #GameDev #CreativeIdentity #TheCornerOfStoryAndGamePodcast #WillemDelventhal #IndieGameAcademy
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Batuhan Gözlüklü on Quest Design, Narrative Design, and Building an Indie Studio After AAA 23.01.2026 34dkIn 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 listsBuilding player motivation through objectives, pacing, and payoffKeeping narrative connected across design decisions and production constraintsHow to grow creative ownership and influence over timeWhat “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.Batuhan's Links:-> Newmind Interactive-> LinkedInThe Corner of Story and Game:-> Discord-> Facebook-> Instagram-> Bluesky-> LinkedIn-> Email: gerald@storyandgame.com#QuestDesign #NarrativeDesign #GameWriting #GameDesign #IndieGameDev #LevelDesign #Storytelling #PlayerExperience #CreativeProcess #Worldbuilding #BatuhanGozluklu #TheCornerOfStoryAndGamePodcast
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Kristi Eckert on Communication and Collaboration That Solve Narrative Problems in Game Development 19.01.2026 27dkIn 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 breakdownsBuilding trust and shared language across design, art, and engineeringHow to keep story aligned when priorities and scope shiftGetting narrative into the room earlier, and staying thereWhat collaboration looks like when it is workingPractical 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.Kristi's Links:-> Daughter of the Rift on Steam-> Future Suit Games (all links)-> Esports Team Manager on Steam-> LinkedInThe Corner of Story and Game:-> Discord-> Facebook-> Instagram-> Bluesky-> LinkedIn-> Email: gerald@storyandgame.com#WritingForGames #GameNarrativeCraft #NarrativeDesign #GameDevelopment #GameWriting #Collaboration #CommunicationSkills #CreativeLeadership #DevWorkflow #TheCornerOfStoryAndGamePodcast #KristiEckert
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Brady Sadler on Creative Identity, Worldbuilding, and Starting a Publishing Company 13.01.2026 38dkIn 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 identityTurning a single idea into a story world that can support multiple projectsWhat changes when you move between novels and tabletop designCollaboration with family and creative partnersSustaining momentum through long arcs of makingBuilding 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.Brady's Links:-> Website-> BlueSky-> LinkedIn-> Facebook-> Instagram-> Twin Tale StudiosThe Corner of Story and Game:-> Discord-> Facebook-> Instagram-> Bluesky-> LinkedIn-> Email: gerald@storyandgame.com#WritingForGames #NarrativeDesign #Worldbuilding #TabletopRPG #BoardGameDesign #FantasyWriting #CreativeProcess #IndieCreators #CreativeIdentity #TheCornerOfStoryAndGamePodcast #BradySadler
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From Fanfiction to Franchise: Ashley Poprik on Turning Passion Writing Into Game Narrative 06.01.2026 35dkIn 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 confidenceTurning franchise writing skills into career momentumCommunity feedback, comments, and why “not reading anything” is not always the answerCollaboration lessons learned from forums and shared storytelling spacesDistilling the core emotion of a story, even inside established IPWhy 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.Ashley's Links:-> Website-> BlueSky-> LinkedIn-> Destiny 2The Corner of Story and Game:-> Discord-> Facebook-> Instagram-> Bluesky-> LinkedIn-> Email: gerald@storyandgame.com#WritingForGames #GameNarrativeCraft #NarrativeDesign #StorytellingInGames #Destiny2 #GDC #WomenInGames #GameDevCommunity #StorytellingInGames #FanFiction #TheCornerOfStoryAndGamePodcast #AshleyPoprik
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Creatures and Cocktails: David Gallaher on Immersive D&D and Live Storytelling Design 24.12.2025 50dkIn 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 loreDesigning immersive tabletop experiences that feel premiumReducing choice paralysis while preserving player agencyBuilding community rules and values that protect the tableWhy 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.David's Links:-> LinkedIn (Profile)-> LinkedIn Articles Archive-> BlueskyThe Corner of Story and Game:-> Discord-> Facebook-> Instagram-> Bluesky-> LinkedIn-> Email: gerald@storyandgame.com#WritingForGames #GameNarrativeCraft #NarrativeDesign #TabletopRPG #DungeonsAndDragons #ImmersiveExperience #LiveStorytelling #Worldbuilding #CreativeCommunity #TheCornerOfStoryAndGamePodcast #DavidGallaher
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Building an Earthquake‑Proof Career: Chris Tran on Story, Change, and Creative Resilience 09.12.2025 1sa 6dkIn 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 decisionsNavigating pivots across disciplines and rolesMentorship as a narrative and professional toolHuman-centered design in games and leadershipDesigning 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:Website: https://www.christran.gg/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisltran/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChrisTranCoachBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/ctcoach.bsky.socialThe Corner of Story and Game:DiscordFacebookInstagramBlueskyLinkedInEmail: gerald@storyandgame.com#WritingForGames #NarrativeDesign #CreativeCareerDesign #StorytellingInGames #EsportsNarrative #MentorshipMatters #GameDevLife #CareerPivot #TheCornerOfStoryAndGamePodcast #ChrisTran
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Prototype Everything! How Scott Rogers Uses Early Testing to Power Creative Success 19.11.2025 45dkIn 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 toolLessons from translating ideas into testable formatsMaking prototypes pitch-readyThe emotional value of hands-on iterationHow 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:Website: https://mightybedbug.blogspot.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottrogersdesigner/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ScottRogersDesignerInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mightybedbug/Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/scottrogers.bsky.socialThe Corner of Story and Game:DiscordFacebookInstagramBlueskyLinkedInEmail: gerald@storyandgame.com#WritingForGames #GameNarrativeCraft #GameDesign #NarrativeDesign #GamePrototyping #BoardGameDesign #CreativeProcess #TheCornerOfStoryAndGamePodcast #IndieDev #BuildPlayIterate #ScottRogers
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Building Story in Open Worlds: Winter Mullenix & Tormod MacLean on Narrative Design in Sandbox MMOs 28.10.2025 49dkIn 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:LinkedIn (Winter): https://www.linkedin.com/in/wintermullenix/LinkedIn (Tormod): https://www.linkedin.com/in/tormod-maclean-6b230012/EVE Online: https://www.eveonline.com/The Corner of Story and Game:DiscordFacebookInstagramBlueskyLinkedInEmail: gerald@storyandgame.com#NarrativeDesign #GameWriting #MMORPG #SandboxGames #OpenWorldDesign #EmergentStorytelling #GameDevelopment #StoryInGames #PlayerAgency #InteractiveNarrative #GameDesign #StorytellingInGames #TheCornerOfStoryAndGame #IndieDev #SystemsDesign #WritingForGames #BuildingWorlds #GameNarrative #NarrativeCraft #WorldBuilding
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No Cutscene, No Problem: Sagar Beroshi on Fear, Flexibility, and Narrative Grit 17.10.2025 1sa 6dkIn 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:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sagarberoshi/The Chinese Room: https://www.thechineseroom.co.uk/Website: https://www.hellosagar.com/The Corner of Story and Game:DiscordFacebookInstagramBlueskyLinkedInEmail: gerald@storyandgame.com#GameWriting #NarrativeDesign #HorrorGames #GameDev #StorytellingInGames #IndieDev #WritingForGames #NarrativeTools #EmotionalStorytelling #GameNarrative #CreativeConstraints #MakingGames #EnvironmentalStorytelling #PlayerExperience #HorrorNarrative #NarrativeCraft #VoiceAndTone #NoCutsceneNoProblem #DesigningFear #GamesThatHaunt
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Fragmented Realms: Worldbuilding Across Games, Comics, and Transmedia with Joshua Rubin 05.10.2025 42dkIn 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:🧩 Fractured storytelling across Discord, comics, and AAA games📚 Building lore from microfiction to macro-worlds✍️ His Dead Ghosts chapbook and the art of subtle narrative signals🚀 The launch of Time Sensitive, his new sci-fi comic book, and🧠 Designing mystery and memory through fragmented mediaThis 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.Where to find Joshua:Time Sensitive: https://timesensitive.strangelandcomics.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshuarubinwriter/BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/subversiverse.bsky.socialOrion Drift Discord: discord.gg/oriondriftThe Corner of Story and Game:DiscordFacebookInstagramBlueskyLinkedInEmail: gerald@storyandgame.com#NarrativeDesign #Worldbuilding #Transmedia #GameWriting #StoryInGames #JoshuaRubin #TimeSensitiveComic #GameDev #TheCornerOfStoryAndGame
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Transmedia Narrative: Navigating Canon Between Games, Comics, & Other Media with Jesse Scoble 27.09.2025 55dkIn 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 freedomWhat must stay stable when stories cross formatsLessons from AAA games, TTRPGs, and comicsHow to guide a team through narrative complexityThe role of ambiguity in worldbuildingWhere to find Jesse:Dead Money (pre-order on Backerkit): https://jdstudios.backerkit.com/hosted_preorders Substack: https://jessescoble.substack.com/publish/homeLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessescoble/BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/jscoble.bsky.socialNewsletter: https://buttondown.com/Jesse_ScobleThe Corner of Story and Game:DiscordFacebookInstagramBlueskyLinkedInEmail: gerald@storyandgame.com#GameWriting #TransmediaStorytelling #NarrativeDesign #GameNarrative #TTRPGWriting #ComicWriting #JesseScoble #TheCornerOfStoryAndGame
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Bite-Sized Beginnings: How to Scope Narrative for Your First Indie Game with Willem Delventhal 23.09.2025 38dkThis 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:The Indie Game Academy: https://indiegameacademy.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ifyouwillem/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ifyouwillem/BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/ifyouwillem.bsky.socialThe Corner of Story and Game:DiscordFacebookInstagramBlueskyLinkedInEmail: gerald@storyandgame.com#IndieGameDev #NarrativeDesign #GameWriting #GameDevelopment #FirstGameProject #GameNarrative #IndieDevTips #StoryInGames #GameDesignPodcast #ScopeSmart #TheCornerOfStoryAndGame #IndieGameAcademy #WillemDelventhal
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Game Storytelling & Sound: How Music Shapes Player Experience with Nikita Malko 16.09.2025 31dkIn 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 soundThe emotional logic behind leitmotifs and atmosphereCollaboration with game designers and narrative teamsTips for writing music that supports, rather than overshadows, gameplayWhy restraint and silence matter just as much as melodyWhether you're a developer, composer, or narrative nerd, this episode will deepen your appreciation for the sonic side of storytelling.Where to find Nikita:Website: https://play.reelcrafter.com/nikitamalkomusic/GeneralReelLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikitamalkomusic/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikitamalkomusic/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@nikitamalkomusicFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100006399796886BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/nikitamalko.bsky.socialThe Corner of Story and Game:DiscordFacebookInstagramBlueskyLinkedInEmail: gerald@storyandgame.com#NikitaMalkoMusic #GameMusic #GameAudio #VideoGameComposer #StorytellingInGames #GameNarrative #InteractiveStorytelling #SoundDesign #NarrativeDesign #IndieDev #GameDevCommunity #ComposerLife #MusicInGames #EmotionalDesign #GamesAndStory #GameDesignPodcast #TheCornerOfStoryAndGame
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Worldbuilding in Famous IPs: Turning Constraints into Storytelling Opportunities with Graham McNeill 12.08.2025 53dkIn 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:Graham's Website: https://graham-mcneill.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/graham-mcneill-4a62932/The Corner of Story and Game:DiscordFacebookInstagramBlueskyLinkedInEmail: gerald@storyandgame.com#GrahamMcNeill #Screenwriter #VideoGameWriter #Arcane #NarrativeDesign #Worldbuilding #GameWriting #Storytelling #AAAgames #Warhammer40K #StarCraft #WritingTips #GameNarratives #TheCornerOfStoryAndGame
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Worldbuilding on the Fly: Improv, D&D, and The Dungeon Cocktail Experience with Jesse Theiler 02.08.2025 33dkWhat 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 settingsThis 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:The Dungeon Cocktail Experience: https://www.dungeoncocktailexperience.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessetheiler/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Dungeon-Cocktail-Experience/61573806056606/The Corner of Story and Game:DiscordFacebookInstagramBlueskyLinkedInEmail: gerald@storyandgame.com#TheDungeonCocktailExperience #Worldbuilding #GameDesign #NarrativeDesign #DungeonsAndDragons #TabletopRPG #DungeonMasterTips #StorytellingInGames #ImprovForGMs #PlayerEngagement #GameWriting #TTRPGDesign #TheCornerOfStoryAndGame #JesseTheiler
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The Invisible Game Mechanic: How Game Writing Shapes Player Experience with Richard Dansky 29.07.2025 37dkWhen 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:NEW BOOK - "The Video Game Writer's Guide to Surviving an Industry That Hates You"Website: http://richarddansky.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-dansky-9b899a/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/richard.danskyThe Corner of Story and Game:DiscordFacebookInstagramBlueskyLinkedInEmail: gerald@storyandgame.com#RichardDansky #GameWriting #NarrativeDesign #GameNarratives #TheCornerOfStoryAndGame #MechanicsAndNarrative #GameDevPodcast #InvisibleGameMechanics #PlayerExperience #GameDesignInsights #StorytellingInGames #VideoGameWriting #TheVideoGameWritersGuideToSurvivingAnIndustryThatHatesYou
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How to Tell Stories Without Words: Environmental Narrative and Player Emotion - with Ian Lynch 20.07.2025 31dk🎙 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:Jaggy Snake Games: https://www.jaggysnakegames.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ianplynchQuesting: https://store.steampowered.com/app/3087670/Questing/The Corner of Story and Game:-> Discord-> Facebook-> Instagram-> Bluesky-> LinkedIn-> Email: gerald@storyandgame.com#InclusiveGameDesign #GameWriting #NarrativeDesign #ElaineGómez #LatinxInGaming #IndieGameDev #GameNarratives #RepresentationMatters #DiverseGameDesign #TheCornerOfStoryAndGame #GameDesignStrategy #CulturallyAuthenticGames #MechanicsAndNarrative #GameDevPodcast
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Designing for Everyone: Inclusive Game Design and Indie Studio Strategy with Elaine Gómez 11.07.2025 57dk🎙 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:Website: https://www.elaine-gomez.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elaine-g%C3%B3mez/Latinx in Gaming: https://www.latinxingaming.com/The Corner of Story and Game:-> Discord-> Facebook-> Instagram-> Bluesky-> LinkedIn-> Email: gerald@storyandgame.com#InclusiveGameDesign #GameWriting #NarrativeDesign #ElaineGómez #LatinxInGaming #IndieGameDev #GameNarratives #RepresentationMatters #DiverseGameDesign #TheCornerOfStoryAndGame #GameDesignStrategy #CulturallyAuthenticGames #MechanicsAndNarrative #GameDevPodcast
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From Rulebook to Respawn: Narrative Writing Lessons from TTRPGs and Leveling Systems 04.07.2025 36dk🎙 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:Website: https://www.forbeck.com/Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/forbeck.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mforbeck/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/forbeckLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/forbeck/The Diana Jones Award: https://www.dianajonesaward.org/The Marvel Multiverse RPG: https://www.marvel.com/rpgThe Corner of Story and Game:-> Discord-> Facebook-> Instagram-> Bluesky-> LinkedIn-> Email: gerald@storyandgame.com#NarrativeDesign #GameWriting #TTRPGDesign #PlayerOnboarding #StorytellingInGames #LevelingSystems #GameNarratives #RulebookWriting #InteractiveStorytelling #MattForbeck #TheCornerOfStoryAndGame #GameDevPodcast #GameDesignTips
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