Naavik Gaming Podcast Lessons In Writing and Directing Video Game IP
Dec 17, 2024
Neel Upadhye, a creative powerhouse known for his work on gaming legends like Star Wars: The Old Republic and Apex Legends, sheds light on the vital role of transmedia storytelling in game development. He dives into his journey from film studies to a diverse career in gaming, exploring the unique nature of storytelling across mediums. Neel also discusses the challenges of Web3 game development and the intricacies of adapting narratives for different platforms, all while emphasizing the importance of collaboration and audience engagement in crafting immersive experiences.
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Neel's Career Path
- Neel Upadhye chose a job at EA over one in film because it offered more hands-on editing experience.
- He later worked on various titles at EA, a startup, and now freelances, enhancing storytelling for studios.
Film vs. Game Narrative
- Key differences between film and game narratives include audience posture (lean-back vs. lean-in) and interactivity.
- Games demand narrative integration with gameplay and rely on playtesting for refinement, unlike film's editing room focus.
Iterative Storytelling
- Validate story approaches early and often throughout production.
- Transition from major to minor revisions as you progress, utilizing various tools for different mediums.