Job Titles for a Video Game Writer

Types of Video Game Writer Jobs

Narrative Designer

A Narrative Designer focuses on the structure and delivery of the story within a video game. They work closely with game designers to ensure that the narrative is integrated seamlessly with gameplay. Their responsibilities include writing dialogue, creating story arcs, and developing characters. They also design branching storylines and player choices. Narrative Designers often collaborate with other writers and artists to create a cohesive game world.

Script Writer

Script Writers are responsible for crafting the dialogue and in-game text for characters. They ensure that the language fits the tone and style of the game. Script Writers often work from outlines provided by lead writers or narrative designers. They may also write cutscene scripts and voice-over lines. Their work is essential for bringing characters and storylines to life.

Quest Writer

Quest Writers design and write the missions or quests that players undertake in a game. They create engaging objectives, story beats, and character interactions. Quest Writers must balance narrative depth with gameplay mechanics. They often collaborate with level designers to ensure quests are fun and meaningful. Their work helps drive player engagement and immersion.

World Builder

World Builders focus on the lore, history, and background stories of the game world. They create detailed settings, cultures, and mythologies that enrich the player's experience. World Builders often write in-game books, logs, and environmental storytelling elements. Their work provides context and depth to the game universe. They collaborate with artists and designers to ensure consistency across the game.

Dialogue Writer

Dialogue Writers specialize in crafting conversations between characters. They ensure that dialogue feels natural, engaging, and true to each character's voice. Dialogue Writers often work closely with voice actors and directors. They may also be responsible for writing branching dialogue options. Their work is crucial for character development and player immersion.

Entry Level Job Titles

Junior Game Writer

A Junior Game Writer assists senior writers and narrative designers in creating game content. They may be responsible for writing minor dialogue, item descriptions, or background lore. Junior Game Writers often help with editing and proofreading scripts. They gain experience by working on smaller tasks and learning the workflow of a game studio. This role is ideal for those new to the industry and looking to build their portfolio.

Writing Intern

A Writing Intern is typically a student or recent graduate gaining hands-on experience in a game studio. They support the writing team by performing research, drafting dialogue, and organizing narrative documents. Interns may also help with playtesting and providing feedback on story elements. This position offers valuable exposure to the game development process. It is often a stepping stone to a full-time writing role.

Quest Writing Assistant

A Quest Writing Assistant helps Quest Writers develop and implement missions in the game. They may draft quest outlines, write dialogue, and assist with scripting events. This role involves close collaboration with designers and other writers. Quest Writing Assistants learn how to balance narrative and gameplay. It is a good entry point for those interested in interactive storytelling.

Script Assistant

A Script Assistant supports the writing team by formatting scripts, organizing dialogue files, and tracking revisions. They may also write minor lines or edit existing scripts. Script Assistants ensure that all written content is properly documented and accessible. This role provides insight into the scriptwriting process for games. It is a foundational position for aspiring game writers.

Localization Writer

A Localization Writer adapts game scripts for different languages and cultures. They work with translators to ensure that dialogue and story elements retain their meaning and tone. Localization Writers may also write original content for specific regions. This role requires strong language skills and cultural awareness. It is a valuable entry-level position for bilingual writers.

Mid Level Job Titles

Game Writer

A Game Writer is responsible for creating and implementing narrative content in video games. They write dialogue, storylines, and in-game text, often working on larger sections of the game. Game Writers collaborate with designers, artists, and programmers to ensure narrative consistency. They may also review and edit the work of junior writers. This role requires a solid understanding of interactive storytelling and game development.

Quest Designer

A Quest Designer combines writing and design skills to create engaging missions and storylines. They are responsible for both the narrative and gameplay aspects of quests. Quest Designers work closely with level designers to ensure that quests are fun and meaningful. They often write dialogue, design objectives, and script in-game events. This role is ideal for writers who enjoy hands-on involvement in game design.

Narrative Coordinator

A Narrative Coordinator manages the workflow and organization of the writing team. They track narrative assets, maintain story bibles, and ensure deadlines are met. Narrative Coordinators may also contribute to writing tasks and editing. They serve as a bridge between writers and other departments. This role requires strong organizational and communication skills.

Content Writer

A Content Writer creates a variety of written materials for games, including lore, item descriptions, and environmental storytelling. They ensure that all written content aligns with the game's tone and world. Content Writers may also contribute to marketing materials and community updates. This role requires versatility and attention to detail. It is a good fit for writers who enjoy working on diverse projects.

Dialogue Editor

A Dialogue Editor reviews and refines all in-game dialogue for clarity, consistency, and quality. They work closely with writers and voice actors to ensure lines are delivered effectively. Dialogue Editors may also be responsible for implementing dialogue into the game engine. This role requires a keen ear for language and strong editing skills. It is essential for maintaining high narrative standards.

Senior Level Job Titles

Senior Game Writer

A Senior Game Writer leads the creation of narrative content for major game projects. They are responsible for developing storylines, characters, and dialogue at a high level. Senior Game Writers mentor junior writers and oversee the narrative team. They collaborate with directors and producers to ensure the story aligns with the game's vision. This role requires extensive experience and a strong portfolio of published work.

Lead Narrative Designer

A Lead Narrative Designer oversees the narrative design process for a game or studio. They set the overall story direction and ensure that narrative elements are integrated with gameplay. Lead Narrative Designers manage a team of writers and narrative designers. They are responsible for maintaining narrative consistency and quality across the project. This role requires leadership skills and a deep understanding of interactive storytelling.

Story Lead

A Story Lead is in charge of the game's main storyline and narrative structure. They develop major plot points, character arcs, and thematic elements. Story Leads work closely with other leads to ensure the story supports gameplay and player experience. They may also represent the narrative team in meetings with executives and stakeholders. This role is critical for shaping the overall direction of the game's story.

Principal Writer

A Principal Writer is a highly experienced writer responsible for the most important narrative elements in a game. They often handle key storylines, major characters, and pivotal dialogue. Principal Writers set the standard for narrative quality and mentor other writers. They may also contribute to the studio's overall narrative strategy. This role requires exceptional writing skills and industry experience.

Narrative Lead

A Narrative Lead manages the narrative team and oversees all story-related content in a game. They ensure that the narrative vision is realized throughout the project. Narrative Leads coordinate with other departments to integrate story and gameplay. They are responsible for maintaining narrative coherence and quality. This role requires strong leadership and creative vision.

Director Level Job Titles

Narrative Director

A Narrative Director sets the overall narrative vision and strategy for a game or studio. They oversee all aspects of storytelling, from high-level plot to character development. Narrative Directors lead the narrative team and collaborate with other directors to ensure the story aligns with the game's goals. They are responsible for maintaining narrative quality across multiple projects. This role requires extensive leadership experience and a strong creative vision.

Creative Director

A Creative Director is responsible for the overall creative vision of a game, including narrative, art, and design. They guide the narrative team to ensure the story supports the game's themes and mechanics. Creative Directors make high-level decisions about story direction and character development. They work closely with other department heads to align creative efforts. This role requires a broad understanding of game development and strong leadership skills.

Story Director

A Story Director focuses specifically on the narrative aspects of a game. They develop the main storyline, oversee character arcs, and ensure narrative consistency. Story Directors lead the writing team and coordinate with other departments. They are responsible for delivering a compelling and cohesive story experience. This role requires deep narrative expertise and strong management skills.

Director of Narrative Design

The Director of Narrative Design oversees the narrative design discipline within a studio. They set standards for narrative integration and innovation. This role involves mentoring narrative designers and ensuring best practices are followed. The Director of Narrative Design collaborates with other directors to align narrative with gameplay and art. This position requires extensive experience in both writing and game design.

Director of Story Development

The Director of Story Development manages the creation and evolution of stories across multiple projects. They oversee story teams, set narrative goals, and ensure consistency across titles. This role involves high-level planning and coordination with other creative leads. The Director of Story Development is responsible for maintaining the studio's narrative reputation. This position requires strong leadership and a proven track record in storytelling.

VP Level Job Titles

Vice President of Narrative

The Vice President of Narrative oversees the narrative department at a studio or publisher. They set long-term narrative strategies and ensure alignment with company goals. The VP of Narrative manages senior narrative staff and represents the department at the executive level. They are responsible for the quality and consistency of storytelling across all projects. This role requires extensive leadership experience and a deep understanding of narrative in games.

VP of Creative Development

The VP of Creative Development is responsible for the overall creative output of a studio, including narrative, art, and design. They set creative direction and ensure that all projects meet high standards. The VP of Creative Development works closely with other executives to align creative and business goals. They oversee multiple creative teams and projects. This role requires broad industry experience and strong leadership skills.

VP of Storytelling

The VP of Storytelling leads the storytelling vision for a studio or publisher. They develop narrative strategies and oversee the execution of stories across all games. The VP of Storytelling works with directors and leads to ensure narrative excellence. They are responsible for building and maintaining a strong narrative team. This role requires a passion for storytelling and significant industry experience.

VP of Content

The VP of Content oversees all content creation, including narrative, for a studio or publisher. They set content strategies and ensure alignment with company objectives. The VP of Content manages content teams and ensures high-quality output. They work with other executives to drive the studio's creative vision. This role requires strong leadership and a comprehensive understanding of content development.

Executive Narrative Producer

The Executive Narrative Producer is responsible for the production and delivery of narrative content across multiple projects. They oversee narrative teams, manage budgets, and ensure deadlines are met. The Executive Narrative Producer works closely with other executives to align narrative with business goals. They are responsible for the overall quality and impact of storytelling. This role requires extensive production and leadership experience.

How to Advance Your Current Video Game Writer Title

Build a strong portfolio

To advance as a Video Game Writer, focus on building a diverse and impressive portfolio. Include samples of dialogue, story outlines, and interactive scripts. Participate in game jams or contribute to indie projects to gain practical experience. A strong portfolio demonstrates your skills to potential employers and helps you stand out. Continuously update your portfolio with your best work.

Network within the industry

Networking is crucial for career advancement in the game industry. Attend industry events, conferences, and online forums to connect with other professionals. Join writing and game development communities to share knowledge and opportunities. Building relationships can lead to job referrals and collaborations. Stay active and engaged in the industry to increase your visibility.

Develop technical skills

Enhance your technical skills to become more valuable as a Video Game Writer. Learn scripting languages, game engines, and narrative tools commonly used in the industry. Understanding how games are built allows you to write more effectively for interactive experiences. Technical proficiency can open up new opportunities and make you a more versatile team member. Consider taking courses or tutorials to improve your skills.

Seek feedback and mentorship

Actively seek feedback on your writing from peers, mentors, and industry professionals. Constructive criticism helps you identify areas for improvement and grow as a writer. Find a mentor who can provide guidance and support as you advance in your career. Mentorship can offer valuable insights and help you navigate the industry. Be open to learning and continuously strive to improve your craft.

Take on leadership roles

As you gain experience, look for opportunities to take on leadership roles within your team. Lead small writing projects, mentor junior writers, or coordinate narrative tasks. Demonstrating leadership skills can position you for promotion to senior or lead roles. Leadership experience is highly valued in the industry. It shows that you can manage teams and drive narrative vision.