Assignment: Virtual Character

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Assignment: Use a “visual novel” editor to create a multiple choice dialogue with a virtual character.

Try to stick to one or very few characters (max 3)

Use variables to track the knowledge or internal state of the character, not only static branching

You can make it goal-oriented (persuade the character) but avoid “dating sims” tropes

Don’t assume the subject of the conversation is the NPC or the player (first date scenario). The player is playing a role too and her/his character may be already familiar with the npc.

What’s the type of conversation: Interview? Date? Interrogation? Fight? ect.
What’s the power relationship between the two character?
What’s the initial predisposition of the player and NPC? Friendly? Bored? Aggressive?
What are the characters’ desires and motivations? How can you create meaningful conflict?

Even if the device a conversation, the social context can be the real subject of the game. Where are these characters? Which positions they occupy in society?

If you have trouble creating a character from scratch, take inspiration from an existing one belonging to a fictional universe you know intimately and change her context. How would Han Solo behave in a Silicon Valley startup? What happens if you transfer Spock in a Western scenario?

Stock characters can be good raw material to tweak and subvert.

Part I (Wednesday 30)

Design two characters and propose two conversation’s scenario (description of the situation and possible outcomes).

Part II (TBD)

Delivery and critique. Post a screenshot on the blog, a one-liner description and a link to the game.

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