What is 'stage direction' in a visual novel?

If the stage direction in a typical novel serves to describe situations and convey information, then in a visual novel, stage direction is closer to the realm of 'directing.' This is because it must harmonize with the background visible on the screen, the expressions of the characters, and the sounds flowing from the speakers.

1. Direction that 'makes you feel' rather than 'shows' Visual novels already convey a lot of information visually through backgrounds (BG) and characters (Stand-in). Therefore, describing in the stage direction, "She stood there in a blue dress with an angry expression," is redundant. Instead, focus on sensory details or subtle movements beyond visual information, such as "The sound of her high heels echoed sharply in the cold hallway. Her tightly clenched fist was trembling slightly."

2. Synchronization with sound effects (SE) In the WEINOVEL editor, sound effects can be inserted at the moment specific stage directions are displayed. For example, when the stage direction "She carefully turned the doorknob" appears alongside the sound effect of [door opening], the reader immediately perceives the change in space. It is important to develop the habit of imagining what sound effects would fit when writing stage directions.

3. The rhythm of sentences and text speed Readers of visual novels progress through the story by clicking on the screen. Very long sentences can hinder readability. In tense scenes, break sentences into shorter parts, and in lyrical scenes, use commas appropriately to allow readers to savor the lingering effect of the sentences. Utilizing WEINOVEL's 'text wait' feature to give short pauses between stage directions is also excellent direction. ### Conclusion Stage direction is not just letters. It is like glue that stimulates the reader's imagination and binds the prepared images and sounds into a complete scene. Trust in the power of stage directions to bring your work to life.

--- *This guide was created by the WEINOVEL team to assist creators in producing better works.*