Greetings fellow gamers! 🎮 As fans of various games, one of the aspects that keep us hooked and eager to finish the game is the story. An interesting plot with twists and turns can make us feel immersed in the game, and it can be a driving force to keep pushing us through until the end. In this blog, we are going to dive into the different narrative structures that games employ to create engaging and memorable plots.

💥The Importance of Plot Twists and Turns💫

Some may argue that games are all about gameplay, and that the story takes a backseat. However, a well-crafted story can enhance the gaming experience and take it to the next level. Plot twists and turns keep the story engaging by adding surprise and unpredictability. The element of surprise can also contribute to a player’s emotional investment in the game’s characters and world. After all, who doesn’t love a good plot twist that leaves you questioning everything that you knew up until that point in the game?

A picture of a character with a shocked expression

🔪 Types of Plot Twists and Turns 🤹‍♀️

There are various types of plot twists and turns, and we’ve listed a few examples below:

🕵️‍♀️ The Identity Reveal

This is when the player discovers the true identity of a character, and it can be surprising and mind-bending when done correctly. The character’s true identity can be anything from a hidden villain to a long-lost family member to the player character themselves.

A screenshot of a game where the player discovers the true identity of a previously mysterious character

🌀 The Time Loop

A game that incorporates a time loop can be one of the most exciting and thrilling experiences for the players. The game delivers several possible endings, depending on the challenges the player overcomes, and some endings will reveal more about the time loop than others. This type of gameplay creates an added sense of urgency, as well as satisfaction when the player manages to break the loop.

A screenshot of a game depicting the time loop conundrum

🦹‍♀️ The Villain Twist

In this twist, the good guy turns out to be the bad guy. Such plot twists can be a game-changer. It shakes up everything that the player has learned to this point, and suddenly things become uncertain.

A screenshot of a player discovering the true identity of a previously good character that was discovered to be a villain all along

📚 The Narrative Structure 🏰

The narrative structure of a game is the layout or blueprint of the story, and it is crucial in delivering a well-paced and coherent plot. With that said, let’s dive into two different types of narrative structure:

📜Linear Narrative

This is the most common narrative structure in gaming. The plot moves in a chronological order, and the player’s journey is straightforward. Each section builds upon the previous, and the game’s ending is the culmination of everything that has been built-up until that point.

A screenshot of a game with a linear narrative structure

🔀Interactive and Non-Linear Narrative

Non-linear gameplay allows the player to take control of the story. In this narrative structure, the choices that the player makes determine the outcome of the game. If executed well, an interactive and non-linear narrative can offer thousands of variations to the game’s story.

A screenshot of a game with an interactive and non-linear narrative structure

🧠 The Game Design Factor 🛠️

Integrating plot twists and narrative structure correctly is not an easy feat, but it’s essential to the game’s success. The designers have to decide on game design factors such as the pacing and length of the game, the game’s setting, the characters’ traits, and more to make a cohesive plot that is engaging to players.

A screenshot of a game depicting two characters discussing the game's plot and design factors involved

💡 Tips for Crafting a Successful Plot Twist 🌟

Here are a few tips to keep in mind when crafting your game’s plot twist:

  • Keep it subtle but significant.
  • The twist should make sense within the game’s narrative and add value to the story.
  • When in doubt, keep in mind your audience - the fans.

A screenshot of a game designer pondering a potential plot twist, with the three tips listed above surrounding them in thought bubbles

🎬 Wrapping Up 🎬

In conclusion, plot twists and narrative structures have the power to make or break a game’s story. Gamers love the unexpected and intriguing plot twists that keep them coming back for more gameplay. Remember to take time and consider different narrative paths when writing your game’s story. Whether you choose a linear or non-linear narrative, always take your audience’s preferences into account. Until next time, stay curious and keep exploring new gaming experiences!

A group of gamers sitting together playing games and discussing plot twists