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March 1-5, 2027
Moscone CenterSan Francisco, CA

Agenda

It's Not in the Writer's Manual: A Q&A Session for New Writers

Toiya Kristen Finley  (Narrative Designer, Game Writer, Editor, Consultant, Schnoodle Media, LLC)
Michelle Clough  (Game Writer, Editor, Narrative Designer, Talespinners Studio)
Jennifer Allaway  (Senior Writer & Narrative Designer, Independent)
Matthew Weise  (Writer / Narrative Designer, Freelance)
Zaire Lanier  (Game Writer, Independent)
Pass Type: Academic Pass, Festival Pass, Game Changer Pass, Indie Pass, Start-Up Pass - Get your pass now!
Track: Narrative & Performance, Career
Audience Level: Entry-Level
Format: Forum
Vault Recording: TBD
Audience Level: Entry-Level
How do newer writers fit into game design and narrative design teams? Do writers coming from the worlds of film and comics have advantages getting work over prose writers? Is it easier to be a freelancer or employee? Do you have the skills to be a writer in this industry? How do you know when you've "made it"? How do you put a writing team together? Especially for individuals with little experience and those looking to break in, this session encourages participants to ask veteran writers and narrative designers questions without definitive answers. Anyone working with writers is also encouraged to attend. Whether it's finding the right job, leading writers and improving team dynamics, or establishing rates, no question about the business of game writing is off limits.

Takeaway

Attendees will be able to ask questions regarding their experiences in the industry. They may wish to become professional game writers or want insight into working with writers. Not all attendees ask questions, but the variety of responses and the ensuing conversations will benefit newer writers and narrative designers.

Intended Audience

The forum is for individuals looking to get into game writing; writers and narrative designers with experience of two years or less; and anyone working with writers, including students, professional writers of other media, industry professionals who've been asked to write on projects, and non-writers interested in story and working with narrative types.