So often, we hear writers talk about the inspiration for their fiction. Their own experiences might inspire them, something they read, something they watched or an unfortunate incident involving garden shears and a haircut. Note the last one has never happened to me. I’m thankful for that.
But what about video games that a writer played?
Perhaps some people will frown and stick their tongues out at the mere suggestion of including video games.
“The plots are ridiculous and undeserving of my time”, they might object.
Well, even these writers could play a video game and use it as a case study of bad writing. Then show your peers what not to do. Better yet, they could take the next step and show the world how to write good stories in games. So I don’t think it’s a waste of any fiction author’s time–even the most crusty and barnacled old curmudgeon–to play a game and reflect on the story and writing.
Meanwhile, those of us who like games might find a lot of inspiration in them. I loved the story of Mass Effect 2 especially the idea of collecting a team of heroes to take on an impossible mission. I’d love to write my own story with a team of heroes fighting to save the universe from doom. Perhaps, then, Mass Effect 2 was doing something right if it’s story managed to inspire me to author my own work.
Take the poll below and and then let me know how, if it all, video games have inspired your writing in the comments.
How have video games inspired you as a writer and/or fiction author?
Video Games Nebula 