Process

My narrative design process is grounded in research, collaboration, and production awareness. I work closely with teams from early concept through implementation, ensuring story supports both creative vision and practical constraints.

1) Research & discovery

I begin with deep research tailored to the project’s needs — from consulting subject-matter experts for sci-fi worlds to analysing audience psychology for children’s or comedy-driven content.

This phase clarifies goals, tone, constraints, references, and the role narrative will play within gameplay, art direction, and overall production.

2) Narrative structure & blueprints

I translate research and creative vision into clear narrative structures: world rules, story pillars, character arcs, and high-level plot progression.

At this stage, I often create narrative blueprints — mapping emotional arcs alongside plot beats and gameplay moments to ensure story and player experience evolve together.

3) Writing & voice

With structure in place, I write dialogue, character barks, quest text, cutscenes, and scripts with a strong focus on voice, tone consistency, and character motivation.

Writing is always informed by implementation realities, localisation needs, and iteration cycles.

4) Implementation & collaboration

I work closely with design and engineering to translate narrative into engine-ready content — using tools, variables, conditions, and flags where required.

Clear documentation and communication ensure narrative systems remain understandable and adaptable throughout development.

5) Iteration & polish

Narrative work continues through playtests, feedback loops, and polish passes. I refine pacing, clarity, and emotional impact based on real player experience and team feedback.

The goal is always a coherent, purposeful narrative that feels integrated — not layered on top.