Though most style choices are up to the discretion of the writer, some important choices fall under our “best practices.” We recommend you follow these guidelines to create the best, most immersive version of your story!

TL;DR

• Pacing: Faster than you think. Must use cliffhangers on each episode!
• Point of View: First or Second Person intuitively connects the reader to the protagonist and decreases confusion.
• Tense: Present tense makes action feel immediate.
• Choices: <#act> choices for actions, dialogue choices for everything else.

Differences to Traditional Books

One of the most important components of writing for this medium is fast pacing. Every line counts; there is absolutely no room for passive story setup and exposition. The opener must hook quickly. Start with questions, mysteries, and interesting statements. Avoid clustered lines of short words and small ideas. The player taps to advance and should feel like they’re gaining something when they do – a new piece of info or evidence or mystery or question to be answered.

You’ll notice a few key differences between media sold upfront (books, movies) and freemium media (Tales):

Pacing

Cliffhangers

Free to try means free to quit. Each chapter should try to end on a gripping note, much like on episodic television. You’ll want to pull the readers to start the next chapter.

Freemium

We’ve found that the best way of getting your content in front of the largest possible audience with the best economics is to allow the beginning chapter to be free and monetize later chapters once they’re engaged. You’ll largely be monetizing content within each episode and we will advise on much of this.

Point of View

It’s up to you if you want to write in 1st, 2nd, or 3rd person point of view. Here’s our breakdown of the 3 formats:

1st Person

If you’re writing in first person, use literary examples as your guide. The world is only as big as the narrating character can see and know.

Pros

• Immersive: The players put themselves into the “I” role.
• Limited Perspective, Increased Drama: The world is localized to what the player character knows and sees. Betrayals, assassination plots, twist endings– all can take the player by surprise!
• Novel-like Feel: Our readers will recognize and feel comfortable with this format, especially in prose.

Cons

• Creates a Character Outside the Player: As opposed to 2nd person, the use of “I” creates a defined character beyond the player. The player is not the protagonist, they’re playing as the protagonist.
• Restricts Perspective: You only have access to your character’s POV, so you won’t be able to use exposition as widely. All lore and world-building will need to pass through your POV character’s lens first.

Second Person