The King of
Wardrobe
"The King of Wardrobe" is a visual novel adaptation of the classic tale "The Emperor's New Clothes," with a unique twist. Each character is enriched with a detailed backstory, bringing depth and nuance to the familiar storyline and offering players an immersive narrative experience.
Inspiration
The Tradition
Traditional fairy tales often rely on simplistic character archetypes that lack depth, reducing their stories to straightforward moral lessons with clear distinctions between good and evil.
The Innovation
Reimagining characters as multidimensional individuals with complex backstories. Structuring the story as an interconnected system of overarching plots and character-driven development.
The Experience
Transforming static tales into dynamic experiences. This approach breathes life into the narrative, resonating with modern audiences who seek depth, authenticity, and nuanced storytelling.
Design Concept
Mind Map
Brainstorm - Main Storyline Variations
The World
The story unfolds in the medieval city of the Kingdom of Gorlin, spanning three interconnected scenes:
The Palace's Grand Hall
The narrative begins in the heart of the palace, where the king is hosting a grand celebration for his birthday. Midway through the festivities, two frauds arrive, presenting the king with their proposition for "magical clothes."
The Seamstresses' Workshop
The story transitions to the workshop within the palace, where the frauds work on the "magical clothes." From this setting, a bird's-eye view of the bustling city offers a visual connection between the palace interior and the vibrant town outside.
The City Streets
The climax unfolds in the city streets, where the king leads a grand parade. This lively setting brings the story to its conclusion, immersing the audience in the contrast between the palace's grandeur and the city's dynamics.
Characters
Script Summary
King George
As a child, he lost his entire family to an epidemic—except for the Queen Mother—and grew up believing she was responsible. To protect himself, he feigned an obsession with extravagant clothes. Despite this, he is kind-hearted, deeply values his people, and works secretly to maintain stability. He uses parades to give alms, earning him the nickname "The King of Wardrobe."
At his birthday banquet, aware the "Magical Clothes" are a lie, he assumes the Queen Mother holds all power because no one reveals the deception. Fearing chaos, he perpetuates the rumor, hoping it will keep people silent, as the legend claims the incompetent cannot see the clothes.
Fraud Cooper
Wield's younger brother, a simple man. Together with Wield, he presents the "Magical Clothes" to the king. In fact, he is the only one who believes the clothes really exist. He is a skilled tailor, capable of weaving elegant clothes even with his eyes closed. He and Wield were refugees before being appointed by the Queen Mother. He trusts Wield unconditionally because his brother once saved his life.
Fraud Wield
Cooper's older brother, a sharp-tongued individual and fervent supporter of the Queen Mother. He is acutely aware that his actions will lead to his death, yet he proceeds. He shares a secret with the player: the Queen Mother is unaware of his decision to present the "Magical Clothes" to the king. He acts on his own accord to help place the Queen Mother on the throne.
Minister Kat
A gossipy minister and supporter of the Queen Mother. During a chat with Nick at the banquet, she spills details about the political situation and rumors of royal power struggles, suggesting the Queen Mother should rule. Later, she reveals that the Queen Mother seeks power not for its own sake, but to combat gender discrimination and ensure fair opportunities for women in politics. She recognizes the frauds as the Queen Mother's agents and mistakenly believes the Queen Mother intends to present the "Magical Clothes" to the king.
Minister Nick
A follower of Gaia and member of the Spiritual Council. His conversation with Kat reveals the sacrifices King George made for the nation, showing his understanding and sympathy towards the king. However, he refuses to engage in power struggles, believing Gaia will guide the destined ruler and that events should unfold naturally. This is why he remains silent during the frauds' performance. He shares Gaia's teachings with the player, such as the belief that everyone (except soldiers and generals) should go barefoot to maintain connection with Mother Gaia.
General Jay
Raised by the former king, he is loyal but stubborn, holding sexist views and struggling with alcoholism. The fragmented words he inadvertently reveals when drunk at banquets hint at regret and pain over past decisions. In his inebriated state, he believes the liars' words, further fueling his self-blame.
Blueprint Framework
Final Showcase
