Worldbuilding Theory
What is the Porcelain Hypothesis in Worldbuilding?
Is magic quietly undermining your worldbuilding? The Porcelain Hypothesis is a worldbuilding theory that explains why fantasy worlds get stuck in the medieval era.
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Latest articles
Novel Writing Tips
How to Write in Omniscient POV
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.
Novel Writing Tips
How to Storyboard a Novel
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.
Worldbuilding Guides
From Black Markets to Stock Markets: How Trade and Money Shape Your Worldbuilding Economy
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.
Worldbuilding Guides
The Second World Checklist: Essential Elements for Building a Traditional Fantasy Setting
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.
Worldbuilding Theory
The Secret World Checklist: How to Build a Hidden Society That Actually Makes Sense
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.
Worldbuilding Theory
How to Fix Flat Cultures in Your Worldbuilding (And Avoid the "Planet of Hats" Trap)
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 Guides
Worldbuilding Politics: Using Types of Government for Better Storytelling
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.
Dungeon Master Tips
How to Choose a Tabletop RPG System
Looking for the right tabletop RPG system for your next campaign? Here are some worldbuilder-friendly choices to consider.
Worldbuilding Guides
Populating Your World: Sapient Species, Cultures & Commerce
Without people - sapient species & cultures - your setting isn't a place where stories can happen. Here's how to start populating your world.
Novel Writing Tips
How to Write Serial Fiction
Examples of episodic storytelling, the best places to publish it, and advice on how to write consistent, irresistible serialized stories.
Worldbuilding Guides
Worldbuilding Treasure: Creating a MacGuffin, Artifact or Relic
MacGuffins, or quest items, are objects that propel your adventure plot. Here's how to create interesting, powerful relics and artifacts worth hunting!
Worldbuilding Guides
A Guide to Fantasy Jobs & Occupations
Used well, fantasy jobs and occupations convey a wealth of information about how your world works - literally and figuratively.
Worldbuilding Theory
Writing Lore: Create Depth with Focus Areas
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.
Worldbuilding Theory
Hard and soft worldbuilding: know the difference!
Hard and soft worldbuilding describe the approach you use when creating a setting. The best one is whichever one works for you!
Novel Writing Tips
What is Upmarket Fiction?
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?
Worldbuilding Guides
Worldbuilding Checklist: 10 Easy Steps to Get Started
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!
Dungeon Master Tips
How to Start Dungeon Mastering
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.
Dungeon Master Tips
5 Tips for Making DnD Travel Interesting
Travel is a part of most D&D campaigns. Here are 5 tips (and bonus video) for making the journey more fun!
Worldbuilding Theory
Is Your Worldbuilding Balanced? The Triangle of Power
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!
Worldbuilding Guides
How to Worldbuild a Fantasy Castle
Learn how to create castles that make sense, and have more story possibilities than arrow slits!
Dungeon Master Tips
RPG & DnD Scene-Setting: Ideas for One-Shots
Setting the scene for any adventure is critical. Here's a cheat sheet with 9 exciting setting ideas for your next one-shot.
Dungeon Master Tips
Rewarding Your Players with an Epic Final Boss Fight
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!
Novel Writing Tips
How to Plot a Novel
How can you come up with a satisfying structure for your novel? Let's take a look at the Hero's Journey.
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