Worldbuilding Theory

articles

Spotlighting to Avoid Shallow Worldbuilding

Creating a sense of deep worldbuilding isn't fleshing out every detail. Spotlighting is a method that helps you focus on what matters most.

Mood & Tone in Worldbuilding

What exactly is mood when we’re talking about worldbuilding? And how do you create it as a gamemaster or author?

The Power of Relics: Using history in your worldbuilding

Five reasons to worldbuild history for your setting... and how to use ancient relics in the present!

Surprising Benefits of Worldbuilding, for your brain and your pocket!

Experts agree—Worldbuilding can enhance your happiness, social life, and if you’re hoping to publish, it can make-or-break your product, too!

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!

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.

Why Worldbuild? The Secret to Staying Inspired

Maintaining your motivation is a major worldbuilding stumbling block. Here's a powerful weapon to help you hold on to your inspiration.

Power in Worldbuilding: Need, Agency, and Action

Worldbuilding power dynamics creates authentic, interesting settings for novels & campaigns, plus creates story hooks from current affairs.

What is Worldbuilder's Disease?

Worldbuilder's disease is the tendency to become so consumed by the details of worldbuilding that it derails the actual story or gameplay. Here's how to avoid it.

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!

Avoiding Snow Globe Worldbuilding

Snow Globe worldbuilding is when your setting feels like it only exists to serve your main characters. It's also called Mary-Sue worldbuilding. Here's how to spot - and fix - it.

Kat Bradbury

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December 3, 2025