What to Include in Your Story Game Introduction?

When publishing a Literotica Interactive Story Game, crafting an engaging Story Introduction is one of the most important steps.

Readers visiting your Story Game page will review the Story Introduction to decide whether they want to invest their time in your work or move on to another story. While the title, description, category, and tags help attract readers, the Story Introduction plays a decisive role in holding their attention and inviting them to explore your game.

The Story Introduction field is located on the Story Game submission page in your User Control Panel, as explained in the How to Publish a Story Game FAQ. This field is required and must meet the following character guidelines:

• Minimum: 1,250 characters (approximately 3 to 4 short paragraphs)
• Maximum: 5,000 characters (approximately 6 to7 long paragraphs)

The length is your choice, but we recommend including the following elements to create an engaging and effective introduction:

Key Elements to Include

1. Story Game Title
   Incorporate your Story Game’s title into the introduction. This reinforces the connection between the title and the story, making it more memorable for readers.
2. Genre
   Specify the genre(s) of your Story Game. While Literotica categories are broad, you can provide more specific details in your introduction, such as combining genres to appeal to a wider audience.
3. Setting and Era
   Find out where and when your story occurs. Is it a sci fi city, fantasy realm and college town 1980s? As they say a picture is worth a thousand words. Paint that picture that is paint a vivid picture which will interest readers and help them immerse well into your world.
4. Main Characters
   Briefly introduce the key characters of your story. Readers will likely make decisions for these characters, so providing a glimpse into their personalities and motivations adds depth and interest.
5. Plot Summary
   Outline the primary goals, conflicts, and stakes in your story. Highlight the challenges characters will face and decisions readers will need to make. Provide just enough to pique curiosity without revealing major plot twists.
6. Special Features
   If your game includes unique features like customizable characters, branching endings, hidden scenes, puzzles, or mini-games, mention them here. Let readers know what makes your Story Game stand out.
7. Sex Scenes
   If your Story Game contains sexual content, especially scenes that must be unlocked through choices, hint at them to entice readers while maintaining an air of mystery.
8. Content Warnings
   Be upfront about any sensitive or potentially triggering content, such as violence or non-consensual themes. Providing clear warnings can prevent negative feedback from surprised readers.
9. Author’s Note
   Add a brief, thoughtful note at the end to thank readers, request feedback, or share information about future updates. Place this at the bottom to keep the focus on your Story Game details.

What to Avoid

• Major Spoilers
  Avoid revealing plot twists or the ending. Keep readers curious and eager to uncover the story themselves.
• Overhype
  Don’t overpromise or exaggerate features. Misleading readers can lead to disappointment and poor feedback.
• Excessive Detail
  Avoid overloading the introduction with too much information. Focus on capturing interest without retelling the entire story.
• Unrelated Content
  Refrain from promoting other works, websites, or products. This section is dedicated solely to your current Story Game.
• Rule Violations
  Ensure your introduction complies with Literotica’s Content Guidelines. Violations can delay or prevent your game’s publication.

Get Inspired

For fresh ideas, browse introductions from popular Story Games on Literotica. While you should never copy another author’s work, analyzing their techniques can inspire your own unique approach.

For more advice and feedback, join discussions with fellow authors in the Interactive Fiction Author Forum.

By including these recommended elements and avoiding common mistakes, you’ll create a compelling Story Introduction that captivates readers and draws them into your world.