Random House sets up games team

One of the largest names in book publishing has reportedly set up an internal games-focused team with then intention of creating original stories specifically for video games, as well as offering narrative advice to developers.

WSJ reports that Bertelsmann’s Random House unit is looking to sell two original games projects – a fantasy and a horror thriller. It is claimed that around 15 people are now involved in the new venture.

There is increasing emphasis on storytelling in the videogame business, on building new worlds from the ground up,” Random House’s director of creative development Keith Clayton.

The moves come as paper publishers look to grow into expanding markets thanks to the growing rise of e-book sales – estimates currently peg that digital revenues now account for between three and five per cent of global totals in the sector.

The report also adds that Random House has already struck a deal with Stardock concerning its upcoming release Elemental: War of Magic.