Application
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to develop, write and test scripts and related content for interactive games.
It applies to individuals who contribute and support the design, development, and programming of digital games as part of a larger development team.
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 story components | 1.1 Identify creative concepts for the script 1.2 Identify game genres and story components for script development |
2. Develop script components | 2.1 Develop a script structure consistent with the genre and the game design brief 2.2 Develop script components for the main plot, background stories, and level or mission stories consistent with the genre and game design brief |
3. Write a draft script | 3.1 Write a script synopsis 3.2 Write a draft script for the main characters and their interactions using the structure and components previously determined, according to the brief 3.3 Write a draft script for background stories and level/mission stories using the previously determined structure and components, according to the brief 3.4 Develop character and narrator dialogue 3.5 Initiate storyboards for draft scripts in the required format |
4. Review the script based on feedback | 4.1 Present the synopsis and storyboards to the client and the relevant personnel for feedback 4.2 Collate, and respond to, comments and feedback 4.3 Revise scripts and storyboards consistent with feedback 4.4 Undertake focus testing with the intended audience |
5. Write the final script | 5.1 Collate, and respond to, comments and feedback from focus testing 5.2 Rewrite the script synopsis where required 5.3 Rewrite the script or dialogue where required 5.4 Initiate revised storyboards where required 5.5 Present the final script in agreed format to the client and colleagues |
Evidence of Performance
Evidence of the ability to:
identify the key components of the story
develop the script structure and components
write scripts consistent with the game design brief and client requirements
communicate and liaise with the relevant personnel to review scripts
prepare a final script and present to the client.
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:
discuss budgeting and scheduling considerations for game development
discuss the components that drive script narrative and engage the target audience
describe the contribution of script writing to narrative development and engaging game play
outline focus testing processes and procedures
discuss game genres and narrative structures
list industry formats for game scripts
outline research methods for:
keeping abreast of competitors’ work in developing stories and scripts for games
obtaining factual information as a basis for character, location and narrative development
locating the owners of copyright and intellectual property used in the development of games
describing script structures and character profiling for interactive games
discussing scriptwriting techniques and the requirements for interactive games
identifying procedures for seeking permission from copyright owners for the use of protected elements in scripts
describing different storyboarding techniques.
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:
reference materials for scriptwriting
the internet for research purposes
a range of state-of-the-art computer games, across all platforms and genres
a range of games consoles and hand-held game devices, computer hardware, software, and peripheral devices
games engines.
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, 1.2, 4.2, 4.4, 5.1 | Interprets and comprehends a range organisational and client documentation, to identify the aim of the proposed games Reviews feedback containing a wide range of vocabulary and terminology, ranging from simple to highly technical, depending on the source of the feedback |
Writing | 2.1, 2.2, 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.4, 3.5, 4.3, 4.4, 5.2, 5.3, 5.4 | Uses correct spelling and grammar, together with descriptive language, to create a cohesive and well-structured script for the game, plot, characters, environment and elements Develops focus testing documentation using plain English and non-leading questioning techniques |
Oral Communication | 1.1, 1.2, 4.2, 4.3, 5.1, 5.4 | Participates in a verbal exchange of ideas and uses detailed and clear language, effective listening skills and open questioning techniques to elicit and clarify information and feedback Presents the script using persuasive presentation techniques, plain English (translating games specific terminology where necessary) |
Interact with others | 4.1, 4.4, 5.5 | Cooperates with others as part of routine activities through the explanation and testing of gaming scripts |
Get the work done | 1.1, 1.2, 2.1, 2.2, 3.1-3.5, 4.1-4.4, 5.1-5.5 | Makes decisions and implements procedures for routine and non-routine tasks, using formal decision-making processes Plans, organises and completes work according to defined requirements and schedules Uses a high level of creativity and initiative in writing scripts Uses information and communications technology (ICT) based tools to write, source and analyse information Understands the importance of secure information in relation to own work, and takes responsibility for data management |
Sectors
Game development