Sanderson has unveiled his top ten video games, showcasing a wide range of genres and experiences. The list includes titles such as Katamari Damacy, Undertale, Fallout: New Vegas, Super Mario World, and Civilization VI, among others. This diverse selection reflects Sanderson's broad interests in gaming, extending beyond the confines of fantasy and science fiction that dominate his literary career. His choice of games reveals insights into his creative process, especially in terms of world-building and character development.
This eclectic collection offers clues about how gaming influences Sanderson’s storytelling. Titles like Bloodborne and Breath of the Wild align with his fantasy worlds through their adventurous spirit and meticulous setting design. Meanwhile, games like Curse of Monkey Island and Fallout: New Vegas mirror his humor and irreverence in writing. Two key games, Final Fantasy X and Civilization VI, stand out as significant inspirations for his complex world structures and magical systems.
A Spectrum of Genres Reflecting Creativity
Sanderson's game selections reveal an appreciation for variety, encompassing everything from strategy to role-playing games. Each title on the list contributes uniquely to his understanding of narrative construction and world-building. This diversity is evident in the inclusion of games spanning different genres, suggesting a comprehensive approach to creativity inspired by multiple sources.
From 4X strategy games like Civilization VI to first-person shooters like Halo 2, Sanderson's choices reflect a deep engagement with various forms of interactive storytelling. Action-packed adventures like Super Mario World and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild highlight his interest in dynamic gameplay mechanics, while RPGs like Final Fantasy X demonstrate his fascination with intricate plotlines and character development. Even quirky titles like Katamari Damacy suggest a playful side that might influence the whimsical elements present in some of his novels. Overall, this assortment of games underscores Sanderson's ability to draw inspiration from unexpected places, enriching his literary creations.
Inspiration Through Interactive Worlds
Specific games provide deeper insights into Sanderson's creative processes. Titles like Bloodborne and Breath of the Wild are particularly relevant due to their emphasis on immersive settings and experimental challenges, which resonate strongly with the atmospheric depth found in his fantasy novels. Similarly, humorous games like Curse of Monkey Island and Fallout: New Vegas offer hints about the lighter, more irreverent tones occasionally present in his books.
The most profound inspirations come from Final Fantasy X and Civilization VI. Final Fantasy X, with its richly detailed magical systems, likely shaped Sanderson's approach to crafting magic within his fictional universes. Its influence extends to the extensive lore and cultural intricacies he weaves into his stories. On the other hand, Civilization VI mirrors the expansive geopolitical dynamics seen in series like The Stormlight Archive. The strategic manipulation of borders and resources in the game parallels the complex interactions between nations in Sanderson's fictional worlds. These connections highlight how deeply gaming experiences can permeate and enhance literary craftsmanship, providing a foundation for intricate narratives and multifaceted characters.