ABSTRACT
This chapter covers the many different forms of interactive entertainment that fall under the description of “games.” It gives a definition of a game and clarifies when a game becomes videogame, and touches upon other forms of interactive entertainment outside of videogames. The evolution of videogames spans from the early text-based, through changes and advancements in technology and interface leading to the modern game, and how story has been treated in the development process. Following chapters will divide Narrative Design and writing between games that are driven by gameplay and games that are driven by story. This chapter breaks videogames into the various genres and platforms, with discussion of genre and how much need each genre has for story.
