Video Game Story Structure Guide

Story Structure

Current

New

Scene

Scene

In a scene is a section of a chapter/level that has a specific objective.

Cutscene

A cutscene is a scene without an action. This is to deliver large amounts of story quickly.

Examples

Frame: Who is this girl?
Point: She’s crazy. We’re in over our heads.
Action: Find clothes and build a bed fort.

Frame: Who is Salta?
Point: He’s manipulating you.
Action: Kill and Run.

Frame: Will Luke control his anger and become a true Jedi?
Point: Hate only brings more suffering
Action: Lightsaber battle

Scene Types

Three Act Structure Example

Plot Points

In a 3 act structure there are 7 major plot points described in the above example. In a game, these plot points should occur as the result of player action or circumstance.

Actions

The actions of the story, shown in the example, are sections of story that describe the intention of the game or player at that specific point. These actions change at a plot point.

Chapter / Level

Story Structure

A chapter has it’s own story arc independent from the game’s overall story. This is done through the exploration of the chapter’s subject or idea. A chapter doesn’t have to fit nicely within the overall story structure. There can be any amount of chapters within the game, much like a book.

Example

Story: What do we do with the weirdo?
Setting: At the house & school

Story: The zombie apocalypse is starting we should get to safety
Setting: Set 2013, around Joel’s hometown.

Conclusion

Separating chapters into scenes instead of gameplay and cutscene elements is a good way to make sure that gameplay and story are happening together at the same time. This allows for more meaningful gameplay.