The Corner of Story and Game

Bite-Sized Beginnings: How to Scope Narrative for Your First Indie Game with Willem Delventhal


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This week on The Corner of Story and Game, I’m joined by Willem Delventhal, game designer, narrative advocate, and founder of The Indie Game Academy. Together we dive into the practical and philosophical challenges facing new studios as they plan and scope their first game ... with narrative fully in the picture.

We explore:

  • The dangers of building too big, too soon.
  • When (and how) to bring narrative into early development.
  • What junior founders are doing right, and wrong, when starting out.
  • Narrative as risk and reward.
  • Why starting small doesn’t mean giving up story.

  • This episode is essential listening for indie founders, narrative designers, and anyone launching their first project.

    Where to find Willem:

    • The Indie Game Academy: https://indiegameacademy.com/
    • LinkedIn:⁠⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/in/ifyouwillem/
    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ifyouwillem/
    • BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/ifyouwillem.bsky.social


    The Corner of Story and Game:

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    The Corner of Story and GameBy Gerald Ford