From Comic Panels to Video Game Worlds: How I Became a Narrative Adventurer
David Gallaher
People-Centered Narrative Leadership | Building Stories, Teams & Worlds That Inspire | Award-Winning Digital Storyteller | Marvel, Ubisoft, MTV, Warner Bros. Alum
Transitioning from a college intern to an award-winning comic book writer and then crafting narratives for video games has been an incredible journey. My path started with scanning and copyediting for Marvel Entertainment ’s early digital comics like CyberComics and Excelsior Theatre. From there, I created digital graphic novels such as DC Comics ' High Moon and 亚马逊 's Box 13, wrote for Ubisoft Paris Studio s Ghost Recon series, and ultimately found my place at Taliespin .
Here’s what I’ve learned from my career in comics and my transition into video games, and how these experiences shape my work in games, where our team crafts expansive and meaningful fictional worlds:
1. Stories are Timeless
Lesson: Storytelling is about exploring universal human experiences. The tools might change, but the core elements—emotional resonance, relatable characters, and compelling conflicts—remain the same.
Application: This helps me craft narratives that resonate deeply, ensuring our stories connect on a profound level.
2. Flexibility is Essential
Lesson: Different media require different storytelling techniques. Adapting your approach to fit each medium is crucial.
Application: My journey from comics to video games has honed my ability to adapt, making sure our narratives shine across various platforms.
3. The Core Questions
Lesson: Compelling stories answer three key questions: Who is the story about? What do they want? What stands in their way?
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Application: Focusing on these questions ensures our stories are engaging and purposeful, with well-defined characters and clear direction.
4. Collaboration Drives Innovation
Lesson: Working with a diverse team enhances creativity and enriches the storytelling process.
Application: My collaborative experiences have taught me to value different perspectives, leading to more innovative and engaging narratives at Taliespin.
5. Stories as Metaphors
Lesson: Great stories use metaphors to explore contemporary themes and human experiences, adding layers of meaning.
Application: This approach helps create immersive worlds that resonate with real-world issues, making our stories both entertaining and thought-provoking.
Looking back on my journey from comics to video games, I’m reminded of the power of storytelling to connect and inspire. Each lesson has reinforced my belief in the transformative power of narratives. At Taliespin, I’m excited to use these insights to craft stories that touch hearts and spark imaginations, proving that great stories can bridge any medium.
If you have any questions about navigating a career in comics, screenwriting, or video games, feel free to reach out. I’d be happy to connect and share my experiences. Thanks for reading!
Lead Narrative Designer | Narrative Designer | Senior Game Writer | Game Writer | Creative Writer | Scriptwriter | World Builder | Mentor | Teacher | Lecturer | Presenter | #NarrativeDesignTip |
6 个月Amazing advice!
Writer, Editor
6 个月sounds like a hell of a career, good on ya