Ravi's Curiosity Shop

For my Designer-Choice Twine game, I chose vintage stores as the central theme because they serve as captivating backdrops that often inspire fantasy narratives. These antique spaces provide a unique opportunity to explore elements of horror and suspense while weaving in my obsession with Indian history.

The game intertwines thriller and fantasy elements, challenging players to navigate the eerie atmosphere of a vintage store while uncovering its hidden secrets. Craft elements such as vivid imagery and immersive narrative choices enhance this theme, drawing players into the world of Ravi’s Curiosity Shop.

In line with Greg Costikyan's definition of a game, I designed the experience to encourage players to make strategic choices that impact their survival. Players must manage their resources—both physical and narrative—as they make their way through the vintage store.

I opted for a key nodes structure for the game, inspired by Nat Mesnard’s concept of “Branching Infinity.” This approach allows for a streamlined narrative while giving players the agency to make choices that shape the story to a certain extent.

I playtested the game by inviting a friend to try it out. She provided valuable feedback, highlighting the need for elaboration and more branches to allow the players to have some sense of autonomy and to allow them to participate in decision making. that needed further elaboration. Integrating her suggestions, helped to create a richer and more immersive storytelling experience.