When I decided to start writing for video games a couple years ago, one of the first things I did was join the IGDA. I’d been a member through Human Head when I worked there, but I ponied up on my own after I left. I’m part of the board of directors of the Madison chapter, and I’ve helped out with the Writers SIG too.

The Writers SIG has a new book about to come out, edited by Wendy Despain: Professional Techniques for Video Game Writing. I’m not listed as one of the writers, although I did answer interview questions for the “How to Break In and Stay In” chapter.

I’ve not had a chance to read any of the book yet, as it won’t hit shelves until April. If the book’s anywhere near as the group’s first effort—Game Writing: Narrative Skills for Videogames—it should be well worth the money for anyone interested in this sort of work.