Writers and gamers discuss teen angst in roleplaying games.
Description:
There's a growing set of TTRPGs that merge the complicated angst of teen existence into speculative concepts, whether it's giant mechas or being a literal ghoul. Why is this particular combination so popular right now? How do these two themes work together to create compelling storytelling and gameplay? Which titles are capturing this in the best ways, and are there ways it could be done badly? Join our panel of RPG writers and players as they discuss. Panelists: Sarah Hans (moderator), Brandon Crilly, Brandon O'Brien, Erik Scott de Bie. Track: GCWS Genre.
Expert video game writers discuss what you can expect in the process of writing for video games, and how it differs from other speculative fiction writing.
Description:
Panelists: Grace P. Fong (moderator), Toiya Kristen Finley, Mostafa Haque, Dan Jolley, Latoya Peterson. Track: GCWS Game Narrative.
Playing TTRPGs with Writers Feeds Your Craft! (Session B)
Summary:
Writers who love gaming discuss how role playing feeds their professional craft.
Description:
There's a special sort of alchemy that happens when a group of writers play a TTRPG together that can feed directly into their craft as published authors. How does practising "yes, and" at the table, for example, flex specific creative muscles? How does the safer, relaxed space of an in-character Discord channel offer a chance to experiment with new writing? Why explore character arcs and collaborate on relationships to flesh out the storytelling experience of a campaign? Join our panel of writers as they discuss the specific ways in which collaborative storytelling through their gaming groups has supported their professional craft, and what strategies might be useful for you. Panelists: Anthony W. Eichenlaub (moderator), Jennifer Allaway, Brandon O'Brien, Brandon Crilly, R.R. Virdi. Track: GCWS Multimedia.
Write Like a Pirate: The Use of Nautical Terminology
Summary:
Writers discuss techniques for proper use of nautical terminology in fiction.
Description:
Authentic nautical terminology can add spice to a fantasy story, but how much is too much? Join our panel of expert writers as they discuss simple nautical terms, ideas, and the basics to get you under way. Panelists: Chris A. Jackson (moderator), Jennifer Brozek, Richard Lee Byers, Daniel "Doc" Myers, K.B. Wagers. Track: GCWS Worldbuilding.
Expert game writers discuss practices for leading TTRPG projects.
Description:
What if you're not just writing a TTRPG, but also managing a schedule, artists, and even other writers? Join our panel of expert game writers as they discuss effective leadership of TTRPG projects. Panelists: Ajit George (moderator), Richard Dansky, Mostafa Haque, James Lowder. Track: GCWS Game Narrative.
Magic at 30: Past, Present, and Future of the World's Best Trading Card Game
Summary:
The world's best trading card game is officially 30! Join your favorite Wizards as we reveal the future of Magic, including new worlds, partnerships, and innovations to drive the next 30 years.
Writers discuss techniques for writing fanfic stories that will be adored.
Description:
Join our panel of fanfic writers as they discuss advice on writing community fanfic that will be seen and enjoyed, and how fanfic writing contributes to the development of one's overall writing craft. Panelists: LaShawn M. Wanak (moderator), Jennifer Allaway, Katherine Monasterio, Erik Scott de Bie. Track: GCWS Genre.
Professional editors discuss avoiding ableism in writing and word choice.
Description:
Join our experienced panel of editors as they discuss the nuances of writing and editing to exclude ableist tropes and language, no matter how time-worn. Panelists: E.D.E. Bell (moderator), Diana M. Pho, Cat Rambo, Dedren Snead. Track: GCWS Editing.