Storytelling gives meaning to game worlds, says Pinto

Helder Pinto, director of the game Europa, spoke about the importance of storytelling in video games at the Game Developers Conference. Europa combines elements from the popular Zelda series and the beloved animations of Studio Ghibli. Pinto emphasized that storytelling is essential for creating meaningful worlds in games. Pinto has experience working on major titles like Diablo, Overwatch, and Crysis. He shared that moving from AAA games to indie development has taught him valuable lessons about world-building. He believes that every creative decision in indie games feels more personal and impactful. He explained that storytelling goes beyond just enhancing the game’s world; it is crucial for giving the game its meaning. Without a strong narrative, even visually stunning games can feel empty. He encourages developers to think about the story they want to tell to engage players fully. The beauty of Europa lies not just in its art but also in its storytelling. Little details, like scattered notes and drawings, bring life to its environment. Pinto wanted to capture what makes Studio Ghibli's work special, creating a game that resonates deeply with players.