2026/12 - Balancing Representation, Narrative Coherence, and Creative Intent in Game Design (Karla Reyes)
Version du programme : 1
Type de formation
DistancielDurée de formation
8 heures (4 jours)Accessibilité
Oui2026/12 - Balancing Representation, Narrative Coherence, and Creative Intent in Game Design (Karla Reyes)
Inclusive representation shouldn’t be a late-stage checklist or a threat to creative vision. This training shows how to embed culture in level design, environmental storytelling, systems, and mechanics, so authenticity strengthens narrative depth and emotional resonance. Through case studies, worldbuilding frameworks, and applied exercises, you’ll learn to balance authorial intent with authentic representation, work effectively with consultants, and build coherent game worlds where diverse identities drive mechanics, narrative, and aesthetics. Led by Karla Reyes, Founder & Creative Director of Anima Interactive (ex-Square Enix and Niantic). From November 30th to December 3rd - 02:00pm-04:00pm every day (CET Time) - Remote training (GR1) From December 07th to October 10th - 02:00am-04:00pm every day (CET Time) - Remote training (GR2)
Objectifs de la formation
- Apply practical design frameworks to balance representation, creative intent, and narrative coherence.
- Audit and redesign a game space, faction territory, or core gameplay mechanic to express cultural authenticity through environmental storytelling and interaction rather than pure exposition.
- Pitch narrative adjustments to leadership or other stakeholders that balance artistic vision, feasibility, and inclusive worldbuilding.
- Establish productive, collaborative workflows with sensitivity advisors and multidisciplinary teams.
Profil des bénéficiaires
- Game Designers, Narrative Designers, Game Writers
- Creative Directors, Producers, Product Managers
- No prerequisites
Contenu de la formation
Purpose: The Creative Triad
- Deconstructing the misstep of "surface diversity" vs. systemic representation.
- Case studies
- Framing creative intent as a living vision enriched by authenticity.
- Exercise: Audit cultural representation in participant projects.
Process: Frameworks for Coherence
- Core frameworks: The Narrative Coherence Ladder, Agency Auditing, and Ludonarrative Integration.
- Environmental Storytelling: Props, domestic spaces, communal structures, and lived-in environments that convey cultural logic without text boxes.
- Multi-disciplinary consultant integration: Involving cultural advisors in art passes, level layouts, and mechanics design—not just script audits
- Resolving friction: Harmonizing authorial style with cultural accuracy in world rules.
Practice: Design & Iteration
- Hands-on design lab (solo or paired): Participants choose a character arc, an environmental space, or a gameplay mechanic to redesign.
- Applying low-lift, high-impact changes: Adjusting prop placement, environmental composition, ritual mechanics, or dialogue to deepen authenticity within existing asset budgets.
- Peer critique rounds focused on ludonarrative harmony and creative intent.
Performance: Present & Refine
- Short industry perspective talks from 2 guest Narrative Directors / Cultural Consultants.
- Participant presentations (3–5 minutes each) of their narrative rework.
- Structured feedback panel focusing on narrative logic, intent alignment, and authenticity.
Équipe pédagogique
Suivi de l'exécution et évaluation des résultats
- Initial and final self assessment form (10 min each) Initial and final skill evaluation form (10 min each)
Ressources techniques et pédagogiques
- Participants are welcomed into a dedicated virtual training room accessible via video conferencing, ensuring a consistent and interactive learning environment throughout the session.
- Training content is shared on-screen in real time, combining theoretical presentations with practical case studies to reinforce understanding through applied examples. Interactive exchanges and Q&A moments are encouraged throughout to support engagement at a distance.
- All training materials are made available online following the session, allowing participants to revisit key concepts and consolidate their learning at their own pace.
Qualité et satisfaction
Délai d'accès
Accessibilité
For companies wishing to have their training costs covered by their OPCO, registration must be completed no later than two weeks before the start of the training to meet the OPCO’s processing deadlines. In all other cases, registrations can be accepted up to two business days before the start of the training. Accessibility: We are available to work with individuals with disabilities to assess the accommodations needed so they can comfortably participate in the training programs offered.