Exploring the World of Storytelling Games: What Are They Called?

Welcome to the world of storytelling games! If you’re a fan of immersive narratives and interactive entertainment, then you’re probably familiar with the many different types of games that allow you to create and share your own stories. But have you ever wondered what these games are called? From tabletop RPGs to digital adventures, there’s a wide variety of storytelling games out there, each with their own unique rules and mechanics. In this article, we’ll explore the different types of storytelling games and delve into the exciting world of interactive storytelling. So, whether you’re a seasoned gamer or just starting out, get ready to discover the many ways you can tell your own tales through the power of play.

A Brief Overview of Storytelling Games

The Concept of Storytelling Games

Storytelling games are a unique and exciting genre of games that focus on the art of storytelling. These games often involve a group of players working together to create a collaborative narrative, with each player taking turns to add to the story.

• The evolution of storytelling games

Storytelling games have been around for many years, with roots dating back to ancient oral storytelling traditions. In recent years, however, there has been a surge in the popularity of storytelling games, thanks in part to the rise of online gaming and the accessibility of digital tools that make it easier than ever to create and share stories.

• How storytelling games differ from traditional games

While traditional games often focus on competition and winning, storytelling games prioritize collaboration and creativity. In a storytelling game, the goal is not to defeat opponents, but rather to craft a compelling and engaging narrative that everyone can enjoy.

Instead of following a set of pre-determined rules, storytelling games often allow for a high degree of flexibility and improvisation. Players may be given a theme or starting point, but they are encouraged to use their imagination and creativity to develop the story as they go along.

Overall, storytelling games offer a unique and engaging way to explore the art of storytelling, and can be enjoyed by players of all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a novice storyteller, there’s sure to be a storytelling game out there that’s right for you.

The Benefits of Storytelling Games

Storytelling games have gained popularity in recent years due to their numerous benefits. These games not only provide entertainment but also offer therapeutic and educational advantages.

The therapeutic benefits of storytelling games

• Emotional expression: Storytelling games offer a safe space for individuals to express their emotions, helping them develop emotional intelligence and empathy.
• Self-reflection: Through playing these games, players are encouraged to reflect on their own experiences, fostering personal growth and self-awareness.
• Stress relief: Engaging in imaginative activities can help alleviate stress and promote relaxation, reducing anxiety and promoting mental well-being.

The educational benefits of storytelling games

• Literacy development: Storytelling games enhance language skills, such as vocabulary, comprehension, and storytelling abilities, fostering a love for reading and learning.
• Collaboration and communication: These games encourage teamwork, active listening, and effective communication, teaching players valuable social skills.
• Problem-solving: Many storytelling games require players to think critically and creatively, helping them develop problem-solving abilities and fostering cognitive growth.

Types of Storytelling Games

Tabletop Storytelling Games

Examples of tabletop storytelling games

• Dungeons & Dragons
• Pathfinder
• World of Darkness
• Fiasco
• Apocalypse World

How to play tabletop storytelling games

1. Gather a group of players and a game master (GM).
2. The GM creates a setting and characters for the players to interact with.
3. Players create their own characters and begin the story.
4. The GM guides the story and creates challenges for the players to overcome.
5. Players use their characters’ abilities and skills to overcome challenges and move the story forward.
6. The game continues until the story reaches its conclusion.

Video Game Storytelling Games

Examples of video game storytelling games

Video game storytelling games are a unique and exciting way to engage in collaborative storytelling. Some examples of video game storytelling games include:

• “Crystal Darkness”
• “Star Trek: The Adventure Game”
• “Zork”
• “The Oregon Trail”
• “King’s Quest”

How to play video game storytelling games

To play video game storytelling games, you will need a computer or gaming console and the appropriate software or game cartridge. Most video game storytelling games are designed for one or more players, and some games may require a keyboard, mouse, or game controller to play.

To begin playing, follow the instructions provided by the game or the software. This may include creating a character, choosing a quest or mission, and interacting with the game world through a command line interface or graphical user interface.

As you progress through the game, you will encounter challenges and obstacles that you must overcome using your problem-solving skills and creativity. The goal of the game is typically to reach a specific objective or destination, such as defeating a boss or saving the world.

Along the way, you will encounter other characters, NPCs, and perhaps even other players, with whom you can interact and collaborate to achieve your goals. The story of the game will unfold as you make choices and take actions within the game world, making it a unique and immersive storytelling experience.

Improvisational Storytelling Games

Examples of improvisational storytelling games

Improvisational storytelling games are a type of storytelling game that is characterized by their focus on spontaneity and creativity. These games often involve a group of players who take turns adding to a story, with each player building on the story started by the previous player. Examples of improvisational storytelling games include:

• Fiasco: A game in which players create a story by playing out scenes from the lives of a group of characters, with each player taking turns as the narrator.
• Dungeons & Dragons: A role-playing game in which players create a story by exploring a fantasy world and encountering various obstacles and challenges.
• Maestro: A game in which players take turns being the “maestro” and telling a story, with the other players adding in details and characters as the story progresses.

How to play improvisational storytelling games

Improvisational storytelling games are typically played with a group of people, and can be played in a variety of settings, such as at a party or as a group activity. To play, players typically follow these steps:

1. Choose a game: Select an improvisational storytelling game that you and your group would like to play.
2. Gather materials: Depending on the game you choose, you may need materials such as a deck of cards, a set of dice, or a set of story prompts.
3. Determine the order of play: Decide who will go first and how the story will be told. Some games may involve a specific order of play, while others may allow players to take turns adding to the story in any order.
4. Begin playing: Start playing the game by following the instructions for the specific game you have chosen. Be sure to listen carefully to the stories being told and add to the story in a way that is creative and coherent.
5. Continue playing: Continue playing the game until the story is complete or until the group decides to stop playing.

In conclusion, improvisational storytelling games are a fun and engaging way to tell stories and encourage creativity and spontaneity. Whether you are playing with friends or as a group activity, these games can provide hours of entertainment and a unique way to explore the world of storytelling.

Interactive Storytelling Games

Examples of Interactive Storytelling Games

• Tabletop Role-Playing Games (RPGs): Dungeons & Dragons, Pathfinder, and many others.
• Choose Your Own Adventure (CYOA) Books: Books that allow the reader to make choices for the protagonist, leading to different story outcomes.
• Interactive Fiction (IF) Games: Text-based games that require the player to make choices and solve puzzles to progress through the story.
• Visual Novels: Interactive stories presented in a visual format, often with anime-style art and branching storylines.

How to Play Interactive Storytelling Games

• Tabletop RPGs: Players take on the roles of characters in a fictional world, collaborating with the Game Master (GM) to create a shared story. Players make choices for their characters, and the GM narrates the story and sets challenges for the players to overcome.
• CYOA Books: Readers make choices for the protagonist by following branching paths through the story. The story often ends differently depending on the choices made.
• IF Games: Players type commands to interact with the story and make choices for the protagonist. The game may include puzzles to solve or choices that affect the outcome of the story.
• Visual Novels: Players make choices for the protagonist by selecting options presented in the story. The story may branch depending on the choices made, leading to different endings.

Virtual Reality Storytelling Games

Virtual reality storytelling games are a relatively new and exciting addition to the world of storytelling games. These games immerse players in a fully-realized virtual world, where they can interact with characters and environments in a way that feels incredibly realistic.

Examples of virtual reality storytelling games

There are now a wide variety of virtual reality storytelling games available, each with their own unique themes and gameplay mechanics. Some popular examples include:

• Ready Player One: This game, based on the popular novel by Ernest Cline, takes players on a wild adventure through a virtual reality world filled with puzzles, challenges, and exciting action sequences.
• The Witness: In this game, players explore a mysterious island filled with puzzles and challenges to solve. The game is entirely non-verbal, relying instead on visual cues and intuitive gameplay mechanics to guide players through the story.
• Job Simulator: This game offers a humorous take on the world of virtual reality, allowing players to simulate a variety of jobs, from fast food worker to office drone. The game features a quirky cast of characters and a healthy dose of humor.

How to play virtual reality storytelling games

Playing virtual reality storytelling games is typically done using a VR headset and controllers. The exact mechanics of the game will vary depending on the specific game being played, but in general, players will use the controllers to interact with the virtual world and characters.

In some games, players may be able to move around freely within the virtual world, while in others, they may be limited to a fixed location or path. Many virtual reality storytelling games also include puzzles or challenges to solve, which can add an extra layer of excitement to the gameplay.

Overall, virtual reality storytelling games offer a unique and immersive way to experience storytelling, allowing players to fully immerse themselves in a virtual world and interact with characters and environments in a way that feels incredibly realistic.

Popular Storytelling Games

Dungeons & Dragons

Dungeons & Dragons is a popular storytelling game that has been around since the 1970s. It is a tabletop role-playing game that involves a group of players who take on the roles of characters in a fictional world. The game is typically led by a “Dungeon Master” who creates the world and sets the story in motion.

• The history of Dungeons & Dragons

Dungeons & Dragons was first published in 1974 by Gary Gygax and Dave Arneson. It was based on earlier fantasy wargames, but with a focus on storytelling and character development. The game quickly gained popularity and has since become a cultural phenomenon, with millions of players worldwide.

• How to play Dungeons & Dragons

To play Dungeons & Dragons, players first create their characters by choosing a race, class, and background. Each of these choices affects the character’s abilities and starting equipment. Once the characters are created, the players and the Dungeon Master gather around a table and begin the game.

The Dungeon Master describes the setting and the events that take place, while the players make decisions about their characters’ actions. The game is typically played through a series of sessions, with each session lasting several hours. The Dungeon Master creates a storyline that the players can follow, but they also have the freedom to explore the world and make their own choices.

Dungeons & Dragons is a complex game with many rules and mechanics, but it is also incredibly rewarding for players who enjoy immersive storytelling and collaborative problem-solving. Whether you are a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the game, there is always something new to discover in the world of Dungeons & Dragons.

Among Us

Among Us is a popular storytelling game that has gained a massive following in recent years. It was developed by InnerSloth, a small independent game studio, and was first released in 2018. The game has since become a cultural phenomenon, with millions of players worldwide.

In Among Us, players are assigned roles on a spaceship, with the majority of players being crewmates and a small number being impostors. The objective of the game is for the crewmates to complete tasks and identify the impostors, who are trying to sabotage the ship and kill the crewmates.

The game is played in rounds, with each round lasting around 15 minutes. At the beginning of each round, players are given a task to complete, which helps to progress the game and earn money for the crewmates. Players can also report on the progress of their tasks, or call emergency meetings to discuss potential impostors.

If a player is suspected of being an impostor, they can be voted out of the game by the other players. The game continues until all the impostors have been identified and voted out, or until the crewmates fail to complete their tasks and the impostors win.

Among Us is a unique blend of social deduction and strategy, requiring players to work together while also trying to uncover the impostors among them. It is a great way to engage in creative storytelling and develop teamwork skills.

Tabletop Simulator

The history of Tabletop Simulator

Tabletop Simulator is a digital platform developed by Berserk Games and released in 2015. It was initially designed to allow players to simulate traditional tabletop games such as board games, card games, and role-playing games. The game has gained immense popularity among gamers worldwide, with a strong user base and an active community.

The initial release of Tabletop Simulator was met with a positive reception, with many gamers praising its versatility and ease of use. Since then, the game has received several updates and expansions, adding new features and games to its library. The game’s success has led to the development of other digital tabletop platforms, but Tabletop Simulator remains one of the most popular and widely used.

How to play Tabletop Simulator

Playing Tabletop Simulator is straightforward, and it requires no prior experience or knowledge of tabletop games. To start playing, a player needs to download the game from the Steam store and install it on their computer. Once the installation is complete, the player can join a game or create a new game.

Joining a game involves searching for a game on the in-game menu or joining a game with a friend. The player can then choose to play as a host or a player. As a host, the player can create a new game, invite other players, and set up the game rules. As a player, the player can join a game and play with other players.

To create a new game, the player can select from a wide range of games available in the game’s library. The player can customize the game settings, including the number of players, the game mode, and the game rules. Once the game is set up, the player can invite other players and start playing.

The gameplay in Tabletop Simulator is intuitive and easy to learn. Players can use the game’s built-in tools to manipulate game pieces, roll dice, and move game pieces. The game also includes a range of visual effects and sound effects to enhance the gameplay experience.

Tabletop Simulator’s popularity is due to its versatility and ease of use. It allows players to play a wide range of tabletop games without the need for physical game pieces or a dedicated game table. Additionally, the game’s online multiplayer functionality allows players to connect with other players worldwide, making it an excellent way to connect with other gamers and make new friends.

Zombie Dice

• The history of Zombie Dice

Zombie Dice is a storytelling game that has gained immense popularity in recent years. The game was created by Joe Henson and Matthew Rodgers in 2010, and since then, it has become a favorite among both casual and experienced gamers.

Zombie Dice is a unique game that combines elements of storytelling and strategy. It is a game that can be played by 2 to 8 players, and each player takes on the role of a survivor in a zombie apocalypse. The objective of the game is to survive as long as possible and collect the most points by scavenging for supplies and fending off zombies.

• How to play Zombie Dice

The game is played over a series of rounds, with each round representing a day in the apocalypse. At the start of each round, players roll their dice and add up their scores. The scores range from 1 to 6, with higher scores indicating better equipment and better chances of survival.

Players then take turns playing cards from their hand, which represent different events and actions. These cards can help players gain supplies, fend off zombies, or even turn other players into zombies. The game ends when a player reaches a certain number of points, or when all players have been turned into zombies.

Overall, Zombie Dice is a thrilling and engaging game that combines the excitement of zombie movies with the strategy of tabletop games. It is a great way to spend an evening with friends, and its popularity continues to grow as more people discover its unique blend of storytelling and gameplay.

Gloomhaven

Gloomhaven is a cooperative board game that has gained immense popularity among both casual and experienced gamers alike. This immersive game is set in a dark and eerie fantasy world, where players take on the role of adventurers embarking on a perilous journey to explore an ancient city filled with hidden treasures, deadly traps, and formidable monsters.

• The history of Gloomhaven

Gloomhaven was designed by Isaac Childres and was first released in 2015. Since then, it has become a cult classic among board game enthusiasts and has won numerous awards for its innovative gameplay and unique theme. The game is renowned for its intricate storyline, challenging gameplay, and high replayability, making it a must-have for any serious gamer’s collection.

• How to play Gloomhaven

Gloomhaven is a cooperative game that requires players to work together to overcome various obstacles and defeat powerful enemies. Each player assumes the role of a unique character with their own abilities, strengths, and weaknesses. The game is divided into several scenarios, each with its own objectives and challenges.

At the beginning of the game, players must choose a character and then embark on a perilous journey through the ancient city of Gloomhaven. The game is played in turns, with each player taking a turn to perform various actions such as moving, attacking, and using items. Players must work together to explore the city, discover hidden treasures, and unravel the mysteries of the ancient civilization that once inhabited it.

Throughout the game, players will encounter various enemies, including monsters and traps, that must be defeated or avoided to progress. The game also features a unique deck-building mechanic, where players can gain experience and improve their characters by acquiring new cards and abilities.

Overall, Gloomhaven is a complex and engaging game that offers hours of entertainment and challenge to players of all levels. Its unique theme, challenging gameplay, and high replayability make it a standout in the world of storytelling games.

Creating Your Own Storytelling Games

Tips for Creating Your Own Storytelling Games

How to develop a concept for your storytelling game

Developing a concept for your storytelling game is an essential step in creating a game that is both engaging and enjoyable for players. To start, consider the type of story you want to tell and the themes or ideas you want to explore. Think about the characters and setting that will form the basis of your game, and consider how players will interact with the story. It can be helpful to brainstorm ideas and discuss them with others to get a sense of what works and what doesn’t.

How to create rules for your storytelling game

Creating rules for your storytelling game is a crucial step in ensuring that the game runs smoothly and is fair for all players. Start by outlining the basic structure of the game, including how players will take turns and how the story will progress. Consider the types of actions players can take and the consequences of those actions. It’s important to be clear and specific when creating rules, and to test the game to ensure that it is balanced and enjoyable.

When developing the rules for your storytelling game, it can be helpful to consider the following:

• What is the objective of the game?
• How will players take turns?
• What actions can players take?
• What are the consequences of those actions?
• How will the story progress?
• What is the end goal of the game?

By carefully considering these questions and testing your game, you can create a unique and enjoyable storytelling experience for players.

Tools for Creating Your Own Storytelling Games

There are a variety of tools available for creating your own storytelling games. These tools can range from simple resources such as paper and pencil, to more complex software programs designed specifically for game creation.

• Resources for creating storytelling games
  • Books: There are many books available on game design and storytelling that can provide inspiration and guidance for creating your own games. Some popular options include “The Game Design Reader: A Rules of Play Anthology” by Katie Salen and “The Storytelling Game: How to Make Games That Give Players the Power of Creative Storytelling” by Tracy Fullerton.
  • Online communities: There are many online communities, such as forums and social media groups, where game designers can share ideas and get feedback on their work. These communities can be a great resource for finding inspiration and connecting with other creators.
  • Workshops and classes: There are also many workshops and classes available on game design and storytelling that can provide hands-on training and guidance for creating your own games. Some options include online courses, in-person workshops, and conferences.
• Software for creating storytelling games
  • Game engines: There are many game engines available that can be used to create interactive storytelling games. Some popular options include Unity, Unreal Engine, and Ren’Py. These engines provide a variety of tools and features for creating games, including visual scripting, animation, and physics simulation.
  • Storytelling tools: There are also a variety of software programs specifically designed for creating storytelling games. Some examples include Twine, which allows users to create interactive fiction games, and Tabletop Simulator, which allows users to create and play tabletop games digitally. These tools can be a great resource for creating more complex storytelling games with a variety of interactive elements.

Sharing Your Own Storytelling Games

When you have created your own storytelling game, it can be tempting to share it with others to get feedback and see how they react to the game. Sharing your storytelling game can be done in a variety of ways, and there are several things to consider when doing so.

How to share your storytelling game with others

One way to share your storytelling game is to invite friends or family members over for a game night. This is a great way to get feedback from people who know you and can provide constructive criticism. You can also share your game with others online through social media or gaming forums.

How to get feedback on your storytelling game

It’s important to get feedback on your storytelling game so you can make any necessary adjustments and improve the game. When sharing your game with others, be open to constructive criticism and feedback. Ask questions about what they liked and didn’t like about the game, and take notes on their suggestions. You can also playtest the game with a small group of people to get a better idea of how it plays and what needs to be improved.

FAQs

1. What are storytelling games?

Storytelling games are games that involve creating and sharing stories with others. These games can take many forms, from traditional role-playing games to more modern digital experiences. The goal of these games is to engage players in creative storytelling and to encourage collaboration and imagination.

2. What are some examples of storytelling games?

There are many different types of storytelling games, including tabletop role-playing games like Dungeons & Dragons, storytelling card games like Once Upon a Time, and digital games like Minecraft and Animal Crossing. There are also storytelling games that are specifically designed for children, such as Story Cubes and Once Upon a Die.

3. What are the benefits of playing storytelling games?

Playing storytelling games can be a fun and engaging way to develop creativity, communication skills, and problem-solving abilities. These games also provide an opportunity for players to collaborate and work together towards a common goal, which can help to build teamwork and social skills. Additionally, storytelling games can be a great way to stimulate the imagination and provide a healthy outlet for self-expression.

4. Are storytelling games only for kids?

No, storytelling games are not only for kids. While there are many games that are specifically designed for children, there are also many games that are enjoyed by players of all ages. In fact, many tabletop role-playing games are popular among adults and can provide a fun and engaging way to socialize and spend time with friends.

5. Can I create my own storytelling game?

Yes, you can create your own storytelling game! Many people enjoy designing their own games and tailoring them to their own interests and preferences. There are also many resources available online to help you get started, including game design forums, online tutorials, and game design software. With a little creativity and imagination, you can create a unique and exciting storytelling game that you and your friends will enjoy.

Storytelling In Video Games