Build worlds, learn how to tell amazing stories
Practical lessons for curious worldbuilders, imaginative writers and unforgettable game masters. Your next great idea starts here.
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Your world’s technology level shapes everything from how characters can travel and communicate to what conflicts can happen. Let's explore how to choose the right tech era for your fantasy setting—and why that choice might not be as simple as you think.
Is magic quietly undermining your worldbuilding? The Porcelain Hypothesis is a worldbuilding theory that explains why fantasy worlds get stuck in the medieval era.
Omniscient point of view is one of the oldest narrative styles - and one of the most difficult to execute well. Here's a guide to what it is, and when and how to use it.
Economics is one of the most commonly glossed-over elements in worldbuilding. Don't miss out on one of the most powerful tools available for generating conflict, culture, and depth.
Second worlds are the most common type of setting in traditional fantasy, and the most ambitious. This checklist cuts through the overwhelm by focusing on what actually matters.
Urban fantasy, paranormal mysteries, dark academia, spy thrillers — the secret world is one of fiction's most versatile settings. Here's what you need to know to build one without breaking it.
When every member of a species or culture feels essentially the same, your audience checks out. The good news? You can fix it without overhauling your entire world.
Worldbuilding politics doesn't have to feel like a chore, or a minefield. When you get it right, a rich vein of juicy conflict will run through the very bones of your setting. Here's a step-by-step guide.
Storyboarding is a visual plotting method that lets you see your entire narrative, as beats, scenes or plot points. And that makes it a powerful plotting tool for your novel.
Looking for the right tabletop RPG system for your next campaign? Here are some worldbuilder-friendly choices to consider.
Without people - sapient species & cultures - your setting isn't a place where stories can happen. Here's how to start populating your world.
Examples of episodic storytelling, the best places to publish it, and advice on how to write consistent, irresistible serialized stories.
MacGuffins, or quest items, are objects that propel your adventure plot. Here's how to create interesting, powerful relics and artifacts worth hunting!
Used well, fantasy jobs and occupations convey a wealth of information about how your world works - literally and figuratively.
You can’t do everything. Focus is the name of the game early on. Be deliberate about which areas of your world you flesh out with deep lore.
Hard and soft worldbuilding describe the approach you use when creating a setting. The best one is whichever one works for you!
It’s often mentioned in manuscript wish lists, but what does it mean? What can you do to make your work feel more “upmarket” – and is that even a good idea?
A worldbuilding checklist can help you create a basic setting, to start playing (or writing) faster. And you can get there in just 10 steps!
Whether you're stepping into this role for the first time or looking to refresh your skills after a long break, you'll find practical advice and resources to help you succeed.
Travel is a part of most D&D campaigns. Here are 5 tips (and bonus video) for making the journey more fun!
Is your worldbuilding balanced? Check with the Triangle of Power! This helpful worldbuilding technique is great for magic, powers & scifi tech. Use it for ultimate worldbuilding balance, and to prevent OP stuff in your world!
Learn how to create castles that make sense, and have more story possibilities than arrow slits!
Setting the scene for any adventure is critical. Here's a cheat sheet with 9 exciting setting ideas for your next one-shot.
How do you come up with boss fight ideas that feel fresh, interesting and fun? Here’s a tried and tested method for coming up with an epic final boss fight!
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