Sam Barlow's Guide to Crafting Narrative-Driven Games

At a recent GI Academy Live event, renowned game developer Sam Barlow discussed his approach to creating narrative-centric video games. Barlow began by explaining the unique aspects of storytelling in games, highlighting what sets the medium apart from other forms of entertainment. He then shared his core principles for building engaging stories. The first key element is challenge, which refers to the obstacles players must overcome. According to Barlow, this challenge is a fundamental aspect of human nature, as people are driven to overcome obstacles. In his game Her Story, the challenge lies in piecing together the narrative by searching for clues and making inferences. The next element is expression, which allows players to convey themselves through the game. Barlow cites the Mario series as an example, where players can express themselves by playing the game in different ways. In Her Story, the search mechanic enables players to type in any English word, allowing them to express their thoughts and ideas. The third element is exploration, which is deeply ingrained in human nature. Barlow compares Her Story to a Metroidvania game, where players build a mental map of the story as they progress. The final element is simulation, a core component of many video games. However, Barlow intentionally avoided simulation in Her Story, instead focusing on a more straightforward narrative approach. When designing his games, Barlow adheres to three core tenets: emotion, idea, and metaphor. He uses these principles to evaluate his game ideas, ensuring they are engaging, thought-provoking, and well-executed. By focusing on these core elements, Barlow aims to create games that are both emotionally resonant and intellectually stimulating. He applies these principles throughout the development process, using them as a guide to make decisions and stay true to his original vision. By doing so, Barlow is able to craft games that are both focused and impactful, offering players a unique and memorable experience.