5. Story, Setting and Character

5. Story, Setting and Character

Define the narrative tone, world logic, and character system to provide a unified framework for long-term content updates.

5.1 Story and Narrative

5.1.1 Backstory

• Origins & Timeline: Key historical events, creation myths, and the timeline leading to the present.
• Central Conflict: The primary struggle or tension defining the current era.
• Factions & Power Structure: Relationships, alliances, and conflicts between different groups or nations.

5.1.2 Plot Elements

• Plot Structure: Overview of the main storyline (e.g., Three-Act Structure, Hero's Journey).
• Key Plot Points: Major turning points, climaxes, twists, and potential endings (Good/Bad/True Endings).
• Themes & Core Message: The central themes and emotional experience the game aims to deliver to the player.

5.1.3 Game Progression & Narrative Integration

• Narrative Delivery: How the story is told through gameplay (Linear, Branching, Hub-based, Open World, etc.).
• Main vs. Side Quests: The balance and interconnection between the main storyline and optional content.
• Player Agency: Balancing player freedom with narrative control (e.g., environmental storytelling vs. scripted events).

5.1.4 License Considerations

• IP Restrictions: Limitations when using external IPs (immutable lore, approval requirements, etc.).
• UGC Policy: Guidelines for fan fiction, fan art, and secondary creations.

5.1.5 Cutscenes

• Types: Real-time rendering, pre-rendered CGI, comic/manga style, static images with voiceover, etc.
• Pacing & Frequency: Ensuring cutscenes enhance rather than interrupt the gameplay flow.
• Update Planning: Roadmap for new cutscenes tied to content updates (new chapters, character releases).

5.1.6 Emotional Pacing & Short Drama Structure

• Emotional Curve:
  • Defining the emotional trajectory of a session or chapter (Setup → Inciting Incident → Rising Action → Climax → Resolution).
• Short Drama Pacing (if applicable):
  • Golden 3 Seconds: The "hook" to grab player attention immediately.
  • Emotional Rollercoaster: Incorporating twists, reversals, and high-stakes moments.
  • Core Thrill Points: Distribution of satisfying moments ("payoffs") throughout the experience.

Cutscene #1

• Actors: Characters present in the scene.
• Description: Setting, atmosphere, and general action.
• Storyboard: Key visual beats or shot list.
• Script: Dialogue and narration.

Extend for Cutscene #2, #3, etc., following the same structure.

5.2 Game World

5.2.1 World Overview

• Geography & Topology: Continents, nations, and major regional divisions.
• Magic & Technology: The rules governing magic systems, technology levels, and power sources.
• Culture & Society: Religions, political systems, social classes, and racial dynamics.

5.2.2 Area #1 (Example Area)

General Description

• Role & Function: (e.g., Tutorial Area, Mid-game Hub, High-level Dungeon).
• Theme & Atmosphere: Visual style, musical tone, and narrative motifs.

Physical Characteristics

• Terrain & Layout: Landmarks, pathways, verticality, and environmental hazards.
• Interactive Elements: Puzzles, resource nodes, NPC locations, and environmental storytelling objects.

Levels that Use Area

• Associated Levels: List of missions or quests that take place within this area.

Connections to Other Areas

• Traversal: Travel methods (fast travel points, connecting paths, vehicles).
• Gating & Unlocking: Prerequisites for accessing the area.

Extend for Area #2, Area #3, etc.

5.3 Characters

Manage Playable Characters, Key NPCs, and Major Antagonists separately.

5.3.1 Character #1 (Example)

Backstory

• Origins: Birthplace, upbringing, and key life events.
• Role in Lore: Connection to the main plot and world history.

Personality

• Archetype: Core personality traits (e.g., Stoic, Impulsive, Intellectual).
• Values & Quirks: Beliefs, catchphrases, and distinctive behaviors.

Look

Physical Characteristics

• Appearance: Height, build, race/nationality, and clothing style.
• Distinguishing Features: Scars, accessories, hair color, etc.

Animations

• Idle & Movement: Stance, walk, run, and combat readiness.
• Combat Actions: Basic attacks, skills, ultimate abilities.
• Expressions: Facial animations for dialogue and special interactions.

Special Abilities

• Combat Role: (e.g., DPS, Support, Tank, Controller).
• Non-Combat Skills: Exploration abilities, social perks, or puzzle-solving traits.

Relevance to Game Story

• Role: (Protagonist, Companion, Antagonist, Quest Giver).
• Arc: Development throughout key plot points.

Relationship to Other Characters

• Network: Family, friends, rivals, mentors.
• Dynamics: Key conflicts and bonds with other cast members.

Statistics

• Base Stats: HP, Attack, Defense, Speed, Elemental Attributes, etc.
• Progression: Growth curve and breakthrough milestones (referencing standard RPG progression systems).
• Differentiation: Unique selling points compared to characters of the same role.

Extend for Character #2, Character #3, etc.