Traces the evolution of video game storytelling from pure mechanics to complex literature. Students examine how mechanics-heavy early titles, like Pong and Tetris, gave way to world-building classics, such as The Legend of Zelda and Final Fantasy VII. Finally, analyzes modern interactive narrative blockbusters, like The Last of Us and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, evaluating how player agency, cinematic direction, and emotional depth shape the current landscape. Participants keep a game journal and sketch their own storyboard concepts or ideas.

Prerequisites: Upper-division standing.

1

Units

Pass no pass

Grading

1, 2, 3

Passtime

Upper division only

Level Limit

Letters and science

College
ERNST B C
Brian Ernst
4.9
32 reviews
INT 186BE Zipperstein S Fall 2020 Total: 8
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32
4.9
WRIT2 . Ernst B C 10 Months Ago

Good overall professor very funny, nice and welcoming. The class has quite a bit of “busy work” but is still pretty manageable. The professor is lenient and understanding.

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WRIT105CD . Ernst B C 10 Months Ago

GOATED professor, really responsive to emails even emails that were sent really late at night or even past midnight Really interesting course content if you're into gaming and development stuff Course is a 1-2 essays, weekly journals, one major group project, and code projects Chill and enthusiastic attitude in class

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WRIT2 . Ernst B C 10 Months Ago

Dr. Ernst is one of the kindest professors I've had! All our assignments are very clear and he is very understanding in regards to extensions and absences if you're sick or just need a mental health day. The assignments were interesting and honestly not too hard because he explains everything very well. Loved his class, definitely recommend!

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WRIT2 . Ernst B C 10 Months Ago

Prof Ernst is by far, the kindest professor I've ever had. He gives a clear schedule of what we do each week from the start of the class and he's really understanding (offers and even encourages extensions). I've gotten extremely stressed from other classes, but Prof Ernst helped a lot by offering extensions. I can't recommend his class enough!

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WRIT2 . Ernst B C 11 Months Ago

I am currently taking him for writing 2, such an amazing professor. I've had struggles this quarter taking chemistry, so his class feels like a breeze. It's not very demanding and he does a great job explaining assignments and what he is looking for. Writing is enjoyable in this class and not excessive. He is also very understanding and helpful!

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WRIT2 . Ernst B C 1 Year, 1 Month Ago

107WC: Professor Ernst is one of the most caring professors I've had at UCSB. He provides detailed feedback and actually takes the time to go through EACH of your assignments. He splits things into low and heavy-stakes assignments where one is graded on completion and one on content. This is a great balance I believe all classes should take after!

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