How to Build a World: Advice from Disco Elysium Screenwriter Robert Kurvitz

Table of Contents:

• Who is Robert Kurvitz and what is worldbuilding
• Don't do high fantasy…
• …but use elements of the genre in your worlds
• Plan your fictional universe for five years or more
• Make sure you own a majority of your company's shares
• Check Wikipedia every day
• Use names and titles in sentences to check how good they are
• Add humor and pain
• Determine what genres of stories can be told in your world
• Before creating a game based on your universe, write a book
• Value your friends

October 2024 marks the fifth anniversary of Disco Elysium, a revolutionary RPG from ZA/UM. One of the main features of this game is its unique and carefully crafted world, which immerses the player from the very first minutes. At Game Camp France 2024, lead writer and co-creator of the Elysium setting, Robert Kurvitz, shared tips for creating compelling fictional universes. His recommendations can be useful for both game developers and writers seeking to create deep and engaging worlds for their works.

Skillbox Media's Gamedev team presented key points from the presentation. The speaker shared valuable recommendations that can be useful for professionals in the gaming industry.

• Don't make high fantasy...
• ...but use elements of this genre in your worlds
• Plan your fictional universe for five years or more
• Make sure you own the majority of your company's shares
• Check Wikipedia every day
• Use names and titles in sentences to check how good they are
• Add humor and pain
• Determine what genres of stories can be told in your world
• Before creating a game based on your universe, write a book

Who is Robert Kurvitz and what is worldbuilding?

Before creating the game Disco Elysium, Robert Kurvitz had already established himself as a musician and writer. He dropped out of school and became the lead singer of the progressive rock band Ultramelanhool, with which he released two albums. In 2013, his novel "A Sacred and Terrible Scent" was published, which takes place in the world that later became the basis for the events of Disco Elysium. Critics praised this book, emphasizing that the fantastic elements do not detract from the quality of the literary text. Kurvitz's universe is deeply developed, which sometimes makes it more realistic than our own reality.

The book, unfortunately, failed to achieve commercial success and sold only a thousand copies. This caused Kurvitz to fall into deep depression, which led to him abusing alcohol. However, the world he had been creating with his friends since the age of 16 continued to inspire him. As a result, he decided to develop a game called No Truce With the Furies, which was later renamed Disco Elysium and created a real sensation in the gaming industry. Robert himself does not consider himself a musician, a writer, or a video game developer. He claims: "I am a creator of worlds." Kurvitz compares this definition of his craft with a prestigious class in Dungeons & Dragons and encourages others to follow his example, creating their own unique professions.

You shouldn't get attached to such loud terms as "writer" or "musician." This can lead to unnecessary competition with outstanding individuals in these fields. It's important to focus on your unique path and develop your skills rather than comparing yourself to others. Every creative person has their own style and voice, and that's what makes your work valuable. Don't be afraid to explore and experiment, because in this process, you will find your true calling.

Robert Kurvitz is a renowned video game developer, famous for creating the cult classic Disco Elysium. This game brought a fresh perspective to the role-playing genre, combining a deep story with unique interaction mechanics. Under Kurvitz's direction, the game received critical acclaim and won numerous awards, confirming its importance in the industry. Disco Elysium stands out not only for its atmospheric world, but also for its well-developed characters, which makes it a true work of art in the world of video games.

Worldbuilding is becoming increasingly important in today's world. People seek to immerse themselves in alternative realities, which is especially relevant in conditions of constant stress and uncertainty. Creators of fantasy worlds provide an opportunity to glimpse into amazing universes, which is an important aspect for mental health. Many may view this as escapism, but Robert believes it is something more. "It is a vital psychological service," he says. Worldbuilding not only entertains but also helps people cope with difficulties, providing them with space for imagination and a break from the daily routine.

Homer, the author of the greatest Greek epics, had a significant influence on shaping the way of thinking of the ancient Greeks. His works, such as the Iliad and the Odyssey, not only describe heroic deeds but also touch upon deep philosophical questions. Homer may not have realized that his work would become the basis for exploring escapism, but his epic narratives offer readers the opportunity to escape reality and immerse themselves in a world of myth and legend, making his work relevant to this day.

Robert Kurvitz is a renowned figure in his field, possessing significant experience and knowledge. He has become an expert through his perseverance and commitment to continuous learning. Kurvitz actively shares his ideas and perspectives, making him a valuable source of information for professionals and beginners alike. His work covers a wide range of topics, allowing him to remain at the forefront of contemporary trends. Robert Kurvitz's conclusions and recommendations help many find the right solutions and develop their skills.

Kurvitz argues that creating unique worlds makes you valuable to the surrounding reality. Don't underestimate your importance. Robert, based on his experience, offers useful tips on worldbuilding. He compares them to the material published on BuzzFeed, emphasizing their accessibility and appeal to a wide audience.

Don't do high fantasy...

Don't call yourself a writer unless you're ready to compete with the genre's greatest masters, such as Tolkien, Martin, and Le Guin. It's a vast and rich field. Robert, who began creating his own worlds in this genre, knows what he's talking about. For him, names have always been an important component of any fictional universe. After numerous attempts to come up with original names for his fantasy world, Kurvitz realized that his creations were only pale shadows compared to Tolkien's works, such as Lothlórien, Galadriel, and the Rohirrim. Creating unique names is a difficult, but crucial task for any writer delving into the world of fantasy.

Each name requires an appropriate adjective to accurately denote its geographic location. For example, if speaking of the city of Amn, the term "Amnian" should be used, while for Baldur, "Baldurian." This helps create clarity and precision in describing places and their features.

Robert Kurvitz is a renowned figure in his field, possessing unique knowledge and experience. His contribution to the field is invaluable. Kurvitz actively shares his ideas and developments, fostering progress and innovation. His work is studied and cited by many specialists, and his approaches and methods are applied in various fields. Thanks to his work, Robert Kurvitz has become an authority among his peers and inspires a new generation of specialists.

Creating an original work in the high fantasy genre is a complex task. When drawing inspiration from the works of masters like Tolkien, it is impossible to ignore religious aspects, as his worlds are saturated with Christian motifs. To create something similar, one must deeply immerse oneself in one's own beliefs and values. It's important not only to borrow elements from classic works, but also to bring unique ideas and concepts to your work that reflect the author's personal vision.

...but use elements of this genre in your worlds

The advice to avoid creating worlds in the style of classic fantasy does not mean that you cannot include elements characteristic of this genre. According to Kurvitz, such elements include:

• the presence of a place where you can gather with your comrades (camp, fortress, ship);
• character archetypes;
• a deep history of the world;
• the dynamics of the development of relationships in the group.

Combining elements from different settings is an effective way to create a unique universe. Using familiar elements will allow players to adapt more quickly and immerse themselves in the gameplay. Integrating different themes and styles not only enriches the gaming experience, but also stimulates creative thinking. By creating original combinations, you can offer players new adventures and unexpected plot twists, which will make your game more engaging and memorable.

Plan your fictional universe for five years or more

This is about the process of creating a world, not its implementation in a book or video game. This statement may seem surprising, as pre-production, including world development, typically takes about a year in the video game industry. However, Kurvitz argues that the more time you spend on world-building, the better the final product will be. He cites examples that demonstrate the importance of careful world-building for a successful game. Proper world-building avoids problems later in development and significantly improves player engagement with the gameplay.

The world of Dragon Age was formed over the course of three to four years before BioWare began active development. This lengthy process contributed to the creation of a rich and multi-layered universe reminiscent of George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire, even though the series itself was relatively unknown until the film adaptation. This groundwork allowed us not only to flesh out the storylines but also to anticipate future directions for the series, using initial concepts and ideas years later.

Tolkien created the world of Middle-earth over several decades, carefully working out its structure and details. William Gibson spent 7-8 years formulating his vision of the futuristic future, as Kurvitz notes. Kurvitz himself developed the concept for the world of Elysium over the course of 10-15 years, long before work on the game began. This lengthy preparation process allowed the creators to create deep and detailed universes that continue to inspire and engage fans.

If you're interested in creating unique worlds, consider developing this passion as a hobby. Create an interesting and immersive world, and if possible, collaborate with others—this will make the process more engaging. When you get the opportunity to develop a video game, you'll already have the material to implement your ideas. Creating worlds can be not only a fascinating pastime but also the foundation for a successful project in the gaming industry.

Robert Kurvitz is a renowned figure in his field, possessing unique skills and experience. His achievements and contributions to the professional field are noteworthy. Robert actively works on innovative projects that contribute to the development and improvement of services. His approach to problem solving is based on deep analysis and creativity, which allows him to achieve outstanding results. Robert Kurvitz's work inspires many and serves as a role model.

Make sure you own the majority of your company's shares

Today's industry requires constant attention to change, otherwise you can lose everything. Robert experienced this firsthand when, in 2022, the majority stake in ZA/UM was transferred to new owners. This event led to the departure of many key developers who were at the studio's origins. The share transfer demonstrated the importance of stability and the support of talented specialists for the successful development of a company.

Kurvitz argues that investors often perceive fictional worlds as "intellectual property" that anyone can work with. However, if the creator leaves the project, the fictional world loses its uniqueness and soul. This underscores the importance of the author's contribution to the development and preservation of the integrity of the artistic space. Investors should realize that the true value of such worlds lies not only in their commercial potential, but also in the depth of ideas and emotions invested by the creator.

Imagine you are in Tolkien's shoes, creating your masterpiece, The Fellowship of the Ring. Suddenly, you are informed that other authors will be brought in to create the sequel, The Two Towers. This situation raises an important question about creative independence and copyright in literature. What impact will this have on the original concept and style of the work? Every writer strives to preserve their own uniqueness and vision, and such decisions can seriously affect the final result.

Robert Kurvitz is a renowned figure in his field, possessing significant experience and achievements. His work covers many aspects, and he has established himself as an expert in his field. Through a deep understanding of professional processes and attention to detail, Robert Kurvitz was able to achieve impressive results. His approach to problem solving is characterized by innovation and practicality, which makes him a valuable specialist. If you're looking for quality solutions and expertise, Robert Kurvitz is an excellent choice.

Robert warns: don't try to create your ideal world while working for hire. If the working conditions assume that all of your ideas and developments will belong to your employer from the very beginning, it is better to focus on creating your own world. Develop your project or business that will reflect your values ​​​​and ideas, and do not limit yourself to the framework of other people's expectations.

Check Wikipedia every day

It is a reliable source of diverse information necessary for your professional activities.

I stopped competing with the works of Tolkien and set an even higher standard for myself - I choose names inspired by the real world.

Robert Kurvitz is an outstanding specialist in his field. His work covers many aspects, including research, development, and the implementation of innovative solutions. Thanks to his deep knowledge and experience, Kurvitz was able to make a significant contribution to the development of his profession. He is actively involved in various projects aimed at improving processes and technologies. His ability to adapt to change and find optimal solutions makes him a valuable expert. Robert Kurvitz continues to expand his horizons, striving for new achievements and inspiring his colleagues to success.

According to Robert, worlds are collections of names that represent places, people, and abstract concepts. Our reality is replete with captivating names, such as Arkhangelsk, Astrakhan, and Berlin. If you can create similar names, you are on the right path to understanding the structure and essence of the world around us.

Kurvits not recommends focusing on familiar cultural contexts, such as Ancient Rome. Instead, he suggests exploring unique and unexpected themes. The developer advises developing an interest in cultures not yet represented in video games, which can open up new horizons for creating original content and attracting audiences. This approach will help differentiate yourself from competitors and offer players a fresh experience.

The developer cites the example of the Kwisatz Haderach from Frank Herbert's Dune. This character is able to access the genetic memory of his ancestors. As Kurvitz notes, Herbert may have borrowed the name from the Circassian hunting language. However, other theories suggest that the term has Hebrew roots, deriving from "k'fitzat haderech," which translates as "jumping over the path." In any case, these cultures and languages ​​are outside the usual sources of inspiration, which emphasizes the originality and depth of the work.

Worldbuilding involves not only creating world elements but also addressing the absence of certain aspects. In the world of Elysium, the influence of slavery is absent, significantly altering the social structure and dynamics of society. Furthermore, America does not exist in this universe, and French has become the lingua franca, which also affects cultural and economic interactions. These features create a unique atmosphere and allow for a deeper understanding of character interactions and motivations.

Create a unique reference library that stands out from the crowd. Research lesser-known historical figures, such as Tamerlane, instead of focusing on well-known figures, such as Napoleon. This will allow you to broaden your horizons and deepen your knowledge in various fields. Use these rare sources for inspiration and the development of original ideas.

Robert Kurvitz is a renowned figure whose work spans many fields. His name is associated with innovation and significant achievements in his field. Kurvits has proven himself to be a talented entrepreneur and leader, developing new projects and implementing modern technologies. His approach to business is based on a thorough analysis of the market and client needs, enabling him to achieve outstanding results. Robert is also actively involved in social initiatives, striving to bring positive change to society. His contributions to various industries have not gone unnoticed, and he continues to inspire many to new achievements.

Robert collects interesting names he encounters in his daily life. His collection contains tens of thousands of names. Although the file may seem cumbersome, it allows the developer to quickly find the right name at the right time. This "name bank" will be a useful tool for anyone who is into worldbuilding and wants to expand their creative possibilities.

Use names and titles in sentences to test their sound

Sometimes you might feel like a name seems good, but when you use it in a sentence, something feels out of place. This could be due to rhymes or associations that don't fit. For example, Kurvitz shares a story about how the ZA/UM writers chose the name for the desert in the game "Elysium." This process requires careful consideration, as the right title must fit harmoniously into the context and evoke the desired associations in the audience.

The names of deserts in the real world and in various fictional worlds often attract attention due to their sonority: Sahara, Arrakis, Armagast, Vendigroth. Robert was eager to join this list with a unique name. After two weeks of deliberation, he proposed the name "Indigrid." However, when he voiced it to the team, someone in the back row playfully rhymed it with "inbreed," and the suggestion was rejected. Later, another writer suggested the name "Fugue," but this name did not escape criticism: a mysterious voice from the audience immediately commented on it as "tuba."

The final name option was "Iilmaraa," also known in Elysium as "Il Marat." Robert notes that this name was inspired by the beautiful phrase "island of Mara" and refers to the famous painting by Jacques-Louis David, "The Death of Marat." This combination of aesthetics and historical context gives the title special significance and depth.

The name should be appropriate and plausible. According to Kurvitz, it is certainly inferior to such well-known deserts as the Sahara or Gobi, but it can be more interesting than the names of some American deserts. It is important that the names sound natural and fit organically into the text. If the name raises doubts or seems inappropriate, it is better to consider alternatives.

Reading with errors can be a great source of inspiration for finding original names. When speed-reading, we sometimes encounter distorted words, and some of them can be quite interesting. Robert gives the example of the name "Iranzaga", which he saw on Reddit. Perhaps someone misread the word "Isengard", resulting in a new, original name. Using such distortions can enrich the process of creating unique names and aid in the development of creative content.

Add Humor and Pain

To create a hundred thousand, half a million, or a million words for your video game, you need to incorporate not only diverse plots and original ideas, but also humor that fits seamlessly into the chosen world. It's also important to convey the bitterness and experiences you've experienced. Without imbuing your imagination with humor and emotional turmoil, your game world can feel lifeless. Delving into feelings and experiences will help create a deeper and more engaging story, which will draw players in and allow them to better connect with the characters and events of the game.

One of Robert's friends once remarked: "All people read for only one reason - love." Discover if your surroundings have the power to break hearts and mend them again. Reading about love helps you understand the emotions, experiences, and relationships that shape our lives. Explore how literature about love can influence your feelings and perceptions of the world.

Identify Which Genres Can Be Told in Your World

One effective way to test the plausibility of your universe is to test different plots with its characters, geography, and history. The more genres your world can encompass, the more multifaceted and captivating it becomes. Video game worlds often focus on adventure stories and rarely explore other genres. However, there are other opportunities to develop your imagination. Try incorporating elements of thriller, romance, science fiction, or fantasy. By experimenting with genres, you'll not only expand the horizons of your world but also create deeper, more engaging stories that will appeal to a variety of audiences.

Detective stories are appealing because they emphasize the material reality of the world around us. It's important to understand the materials knives are made of, how often garbage is collected, and the terrain of the city where the crime occurred. This meticulous attention to detail, inherent to the genre, helps us consider many significant nuances that can influence the development of the plot and the resolution of the mystery. Every element of the environment becomes an important part of the investigation, which makes detective stories more profound and believable.

The spy thriller is considered one of the most difficult genres to implement in a fictional world, according to Kurvitz. Dragon Age: Dreadwolf, which has undergone two reboots and was recently renamed Dragon Age: The Veilguard, was expected to incorporate elements of this genre into its plot. Robert emphasizes that the successful implementation of such a plot is only possible with deep development of the setting and the writers' confidence in the chosen concept.

Romantic comedy is one of the most difficult genres in literature and cinema. However, the developers of the Mass Effect series have successfully integrated elements of this genre into a grand story about saving the galaxy. As a result, players receive a unique experience that combines deep emotions and dramatic situations, making the plot more engaging and multilayered. This harmony between romance and science fiction creates an atmosphere in which the characters' personal relationships become an important part of the overall narrative.

Autobiography is considered one of the most challenging literary genres. Success in writing an autobiography depends on the ability to tell your life story with the same depth and detail as if you were describing someone else. This includes memories of cafes where you took refuge from the rain, girls you longed to love forever, and political views that led to disagreements with friends. If you manage to convey these moments with sincerity and emotional intensity, your autobiography can become a true work of art. This approach will help create a captivating and profound text that will intrigue the reader and allow them to see your unique world.

By exploring different genres, you will be able to identify gaps in your understanding. You will realize that not only big ideas are important, but also everyday details, such as street names, letters, posters, and other elements of life. This will help you create a more complete and rich understanding of the world.

Before creating a game based on your universe, write a book

Understanding international finance can be a significant advantage in the future. In today's gaming market, where collaboration with international partners is becoming the norm, freedom of choice can be limited. Investors often seek to control a significant share of your ideas and developments that arise through collaboration with colleagues. This is important to consider when planning and implementing projects to preserve creativity and ensure a balance between funding and copyright.

When You write a book, and there are only two participants: the author and the computer. This is the most cost-effective way to create a unique world and fill it with any elements you like. This approach allows you to use your ideas in games without sharing them with investors.

Value Your Friends

After Robert left school at 16, he and his friends founded an art movement called the Gang. Working on the world of Elysium began as a shared creative endeavor. Each of the group members had unique talents: artists, writers, and even someone who had deeply studied Hegel's philosophy. This collective approach to creativity became the basis for creating a fascinating and multi-layered universe that reflects their ideas and inspirations.

Robert believes that the most valuable investments in life are friends. They can help you create amazing worlds and achieve all your goals. Of course, friends can bring with them problems and flaws. However, as one of Kurvitz's friends noted, "In this world you have a choice: to be alone or to forgive." Robert encourages choosing forgiveness, as true friendship is based on understanding and support.

Age 18 and 19 is the ideal A period for networking. It's important to understand that in the future, your resume and achievements may be less significant than the connections you make now. At this stage of life, it's not just your skills that matter, but also the skills of the people around you. Therefore, it's worth actively developing your professional contacts and devoting time to self-development. Successful networking can open up new opportunities and influence your future career growth.

In your twenties, don't rush into work and serious commitments. Use this time for self-discovery and creativity. Allow yourself to be free and develop unique ideas. If someone tries to dissuade you from this, ignore them. Your young years are a period of experimentation and finding your own path.

Robert Kurvitz is a renowned figure with significant experience and knowledge in his field. His work covers many aspects, including project management, strategic planning, and business development. Thanks to his unique approach and innovative methods, Robert has achieved outstanding results and established himself as an expert in his field. His work inspires many and serves as a role model. Kurvits actively shares his knowledge, which contributes to the development of the industry and the improvement of the skills of specialists.