Application
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to identify and develop storylines, write plot synopses and background stories, and to develop story components for interactive digital games.
It applies to individuals who are employed as game concept developers, script writers, storyboard artists, game designers and other personnel working in the game development industry.
No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Elements and Performance Criteria
ELEMENT | PERFORMANCE CRITERIA |
Elements describe the essential outcomes. | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. |
1. Identify and develop storylines with game potential | 1.1 Identify potential storylines for game development, to current industry standards and regulations 1.2 Modify and enhance storylines to suit the game environment 1.3 Determine the appropriate game genre |
2. Write the plot synopsis and background story | 2.1 Determine character profiles 2.2 Develop environment profiles consistent with the storyline 2.3 Develop the background story 2.4 Develop the initial plot profile 2.5 Develop plot synopsis and options, and link to specific game levels |
3. Develop story components | 3.1 Source the initial concept artwork 3.2 Develop level specifications and storylines 3.3 Initiate the development of storyboards showing plot development, cinematic and level outlines |
4. Finalise story components for inclusion in the game design brief | 4.1 Seek feedback on the story and concept 4.2 Finalise the story concept, profiles and other specifications for inclusion in the game design brief |
Evidence of Performance
Evidence of the ability to:
develop storylines for games, according to current industry standards
apply processes and procedures to facilitate quality script writing
apply the role of narrative in game development
seek, and professionally respond to, feedback regarding concept and storylines.
Note: If a specific volume or frequency is not stated, then evidence must be provided at least once.
Evidence of Knowledge
To complete the unit requirements safely and effectively, the individual must:
outline budgeting and scheduling considerations for game development
outline the copyright and intellectual property protection regulations for written narrative and concept graphics
discuss different story requirements for particular game genres
discuss the role of story writing in game development, and the quality of the final product
outline research methods that can be used to stay abreast of the latest changes and narrative development for games
discuss tools and techniques for developing game narrative.
Assessment Conditions
Gather evidence to demonstrate consistent performance in conditions that are safe and replicate the workplace. Noise levels, production flow, interruptions and time variances must be typical of those experienced in the game development field of work, and include access to:
a range of current computer games across all platforms and genres
a range of the latest consoles and hand-held game devices
the internet for research purposes
computer hardware, software and games engines
file storage
current copyright and intellectual property legislation.
Assessors must satisfy NVR/AQTF assessor requirements.
Foundation Skills
This section describes language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills incorporated in the performance criteria that are required for competent performance.
Skill | Performance Criteria | Description |
Reading | 1.1, 1.3, 3.1 | Identifies and evaluates a variety of texts to aid concept development |
Writing | 1.2, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, 2.5, 3.2, 3.3, 4.2 | Uses clear, concise language, accurate spelling, technical terminology, and appropriate layout, when developing the technical aspects and flowcharts for the game storyline Employs a wide range of descriptive language to create cohesive and well-structured content for the characters, environment and plot |
Oral Communication | 1.1, 1.3, 3.1, 3.3, 4.1 | Uses effective listening, open questioning techniques and reflective responses to obtain views, ideas, information and feedback Presents the concept and storyline clearly, using words and non-verbal features appropriate to the audience |
Navigate the world of work | 1.1 | Identifies and complies with industry and regulatory requirements |
Get the work done | 1.1-1.3, 2.1-2.5, 3.1-3.3, 4.1, 4.2 | Makes routine decisions and implements standard procedures for routine tasks, using formal decision making processes for more complex and non-routine situations Uses creativity and initiative in the story, and the visual design Uses information and communications technology (ICT) based tools to conduct research, design work processes, and complete work tasks |
Sectors
Game development