Emma Kidwell, a talented writer for Firaxis Games, has a unique origin story that sets her apart in the world of game narrative. Before her career in video games, she was a fan fiction enthusiast, with a particular passion for Twilight fan fiction. This seemingly unconventional path led her to where she is today, working on renowned titles like Hindsight, Borderlands 4, Life Is Strange 2, and Sid Meier’s Civilization VII.
Kidwell’s journey from fan fiction to game development is a testament to the power of creativity and how unconventional beginnings can shape a successful career. Her love for writing fan fiction on DeviantArt eventually evolved into a career in writing DLC for Marvel’s Midnight Suns. In her own words, she describes how her early experiences in fan fiction laid the groundwork for her current role as a game developer.
In a recent interview, Kidwell shared insights into her creative process and how fan fiction has influenced her work. She highlighted the similarities between writing fan fiction and working with licensed characters, emphasizing the role-playing aspect that fuels her creativity. Despite the stigma often associated with fan fiction as a lesser form of writing, Kidwell has proven that it can be a valuable stepping stone to a successful career in game development.
Breaking Stereotypes and Building Careers in Fan Fiction
The world of fan fiction has long been misunderstood and undervalued, with many dismissing it as a hobby for amateurs. However, individuals like Emma Kidwell are challenging these stereotypes and showcasing the potential for fan fiction to serve as a launching pad for professional success. By embracing her roots in fan fiction, Kidwell has been able to leverage her creative skills and storytelling abilities to thrive in the competitive landscape of game development.
Despite the initial skepticism surrounding fan fiction, Kidwell believes that its connection to marginalized communities has contributed to its underestimation as a legitimate form of writing. However, she argues that fan fiction provides a unique platform for writers to explore new narratives and experiment with established characters in ways that traditional writing does not allow. This creative freedom has been instrumental in Kidwell’s career trajectory and has enabled her to bring fresh perspectives to her work at Firaxis Games.
From Fan Fiction to Franchise Writing
Kidwell’s transition from fan fiction to writing for established franchises like Marvel’s Midnight Suns has required her to navigate the intricacies of established story canons while injecting her own creative flair. Despite the perceived constraints of working with licensed characters, Kidwell views it as an opportunity to infuse her unique voice into familiar narratives. By approaching her work as a puzzle to be solved, Kidwell finds ways to authentically connect with the characters and craft compelling stories that resonate with players.
In her spare time, Kidwell continues to engage in role-playing activities, immersing herself in communities like Dragon Age to fuel her creativity and passion for storytelling. For her, the transition from fan fiction to franchise writing represents a natural evolution in her love for storytelling and character development. Through her experiences, Kidwell exemplifies how unconventional paths can lead to fulfilling and successful careers in creative industries.
Emma Kidwell’s journey from Twilight fan fiction to Marvel DLC demonstrates the transformative power of creativity and passion. By embracing her roots in fan fiction and leveraging her storytelling skills, she has carved out a unique niche in the world of game development. Her story serves as a reminder that unconventional beginnings can pave the way for extraordinary achievements, inspiring aspiring writers and developers to pursue their creative dreams with confidence and determination.
