Game Narrative Designer for HD-2D RPG Project (OPEN TO PROPOSALS)

We are seeking an experienced Game Worldbuilder / Narrative Designer with a proven track record in metroidvania and RPG storytelling to help polish and structure the narrative for our indie HD-2D action-adventure game—a dark, atmospheric 2.5D metroidvania inspired by the emotional depth and time-duality pacing of Chrono Trigger, the ensemble character arcs and HD-2D aesthetic of Octopath Traveler. Your Role & Responsibilities: Create a comprehensive plot bible (8-12 pages) outlining the full game structure, protagonist journey, core allies' arcs, branching choices, and worldbuilding elements. Develop a detailed, gameplay-integrated script for Act 1 (targeting 15-20 minutes of opening gameplay), including cinematic prologue, tutorial beats, dialogue trees with player agency, lore delivery, choice impacts, hub introductions, first boss encounter, and cliffhanger. Ensure thematic consistency and grounded emotional stakes. Collaboration & Creative Process: The selected candidate will begin with a detailed kick-off call/video meeting where we’ll walk through the initial story concept and existing ideas in depth. You’ll have full creative input throughout the project—we’re open to your suggestions on refining, expanding, or changing aspects of the narrative to make it stronger. Collaboration and fresh perspective are highly valued; this is a partnership to shape the best possible story. We are open to all proposals: Feel free to suggest adjustments to the scope, deliverables, timeline, or pricing that better suit your process while meeting the core goals (bible + Act 1 script). Fixed-price milestone structure preferred, but we’re flexible. Ideal Qualifications (not necessary): Narrative Design & Worldbuilding: Expertise in crafting immersive, philosophical lore with environmental storytelling and non-linear reveals. Character Development: Proven ability to build relatable, flawed ensembles with meaningful arcs, bonds, and sacrifice payoffs. Scriptwriting & Dialogue: Natural, impactful prose for branching trees, internal monologues, and choice-driven reactivity. Game Design Principles: Experience tying story to metroidvania progression (ability gates, backtracking rewards etc.). Collaborative Teamwork: Strong communication for indie workflows, milestone delivery, and feedback integration. 3+ years in game narrative design, with shipped indie or AA titles (metroidvania/RPG preferred). Portfolio: Links to GDDs, scripts, etc.). Familiarity with Chrono Trigger, Octopath Traveler, and KH: Chain of Memories—understanding of emotional payoff, ensemble casts, duality/mirrored mechanics, and philosophical themes. Native-level English; 25-40hr estimated workload. Key Skills: Narrative Design Character Development Storyboarding Scriptwriting Game Design Principles Collaborative Teamwork Apply tot his job