The Expanding Universe: How Game Development is Redefining Authorial Control
The recent revelation that George R.R. Martin, the celebrated author of A Song of Ice and Fire (and Game of Thrones), might not even recognize his own world in Elden Ring is sparking a fascinating conversation about the evolving relationship between authors and game developers. FromSoftware’s Hidetaka Miyazaki openly admitted the studio significantly expanded upon Martin’s initial lore, a practice becoming increasingly common in the gaming industry.
Beyond Worldbuilding: The Collaborative Shift in Game Narratives
Traditionally, authors held firm control over their creations. However, modern game development, particularly in expansive RPGs like Elden Ring, demands a different approach. Miyazaki’s explanation – that he needed a complete understanding of the world to ensure player experience wasn’t lost – highlights a crucial point. Games aren’t passive narratives; they’re interactive experiences. This necessitates a level of adaptation and expansion that often goes beyond the original author’s vision.
This isn’t unique to FromSoftware. Consider the Mass Effect series, initially inspired by the works of science fiction author A.E. van Vogt. BioWare, the developer, took those core concepts and built an entirely new universe with its own characters, conflicts, and lore. The success of these games demonstrates that audiences are often more interested in a compelling interactive experience than strict adherence to source material.
The Rise of ‘Transmedia’ Storytelling and its Challenges
This trend falls squarely into the realm of “transmedia storytelling” – where a narrative unfolds across multiple platforms. Henry Jenkins, a leading scholar in media studies, defines transmedia storytelling as a technique of world-building that spreads a narrative across multiple media touchpoints. However, maintaining consistency and authorial intent across these platforms is a significant challenge.
The Witcher franchise provides another compelling example. Based on Andrzej Sapkowski’s novels, CD Projekt Red’s games have arguably surpassed the books in popularity, and have even influenced subsequent novels in the series. This demonstrates a shift in power dynamics, where the game becomes a primary driver of the franchise’s narrative evolution. According to Newzoo, the global games market generated $184 billion in revenue in 2023, dwarfing many traditional media industries, giving game developers considerable influence.
Impact on Authors and Future Collaborations
What does this mean for authors? It suggests a need for a more flexible approach to licensing and collaboration. Authors may need to embrace the idea of their worlds being “remixed” and expanded upon, rather than rigidly controlling every aspect of the adaptation.
Pro Tip: When licensing your work for game development, clearly define the scope of creative freedom granted to the developers. Consider establishing a collaborative process with regular check-ins and opportunities for feedback.
The fact that Martin himself hasn’t played Elden Ring, despite contributing to its lore, is telling. It suggests a level of trust – or perhaps a deliberate detachment – from the final product. Future collaborations may see authors taking on more advisory roles, providing foundational elements but allowing developers the space to innovate and create truly interactive experiences.
Shadow of the Erdtree and the DLC Dilemma
Miyazaki’s confirmation that the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC doesn’t introduce new mythology from Martin further reinforces this pattern. The DLC builds upon the existing foundation, demonstrating that the core world and lore are now firmly established within the FromSoftware universe. This approach minimizes potential inconsistencies and allows for a more cohesive narrative experience.
FAQ: Authors, Games, and Creative Control
- Will authors lose control of their stories when adapting them into games? Not necessarily, but they may need to be more flexible and embrace collaborative approaches.
- Is it common for game developers to significantly alter source material? Yes, especially in expansive RPGs where interactivity demands a deeper understanding of the world.
- What are the benefits of transmedia storytelling? It allows for a richer, more immersive experience for audiences and expands the reach of the original story.
- How can authors protect their creative vision during game adaptations? Clear licensing agreements and ongoing collaboration with developers are crucial.
Did you know? The success of Elden Ring has led to a surge in interest in George R.R. Martin’s work, demonstrating the potential for games to revitalize existing franchises.
Want to delve deeper into the world of game development and narrative design? Gamasutra is an excellent resource for industry insights and analysis. Explore our other articles on game design and narrative storytelling for more in-depth coverage.
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