Writing Prompt Games

I may have talked talked about this before, but I think there are a bunch of good games that can really help a writer with their creativity. I stumbled into one just today thanks to some friends of mine.

This is particular game is called “Channel A,” and it plays like a lot of modern group card games. It’s an anime pitch game. In it one player acts as the producers. They draw five theme cards, pick two and ask the players to pitch a show in that genre. Perhaps it’s “space epic” and “host club.” The other players have title cards, each one a word that they can add together to make a full title. Perhaps a player puts together three cards to make the title “Super Cosmic Love.” Now, based on that title, they have to pitch the concept of their show to the producer. The producer then picks the one they like best.

It really strains one’s creativity. Each one is like a mini writing prompt. You have seconds to piece together a title that somewhat approaches the genres you’re given, then you have to flesh out that idea enough to impress a judge. Then do it all again. Writing prompt after writing prompt.

I found it quite fun, to be honest. And, not to brag, I won it quite handily. I highly recommend this and other games like it to authors and writers out there. Challenge your brain a little and have some fun.

Check out Channel A here. Unfortunately the game is out of print, but I’m told the PDF of the cards is available for free online.

Be excellent to each other.