World Building Advice

If you've just started building your world or universe check out our handy checklist of ideas and prompts on creating everything from worlds and gods to religions, cultures and geography. If you're an advanced world builder and you're looking to solve problems around magic, technology, language or economics, there are some hints to guide you here.

How do I create a believable and immersive fantasy world?

Creating a believable and immersive fantasy world requires a lot of thought and attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you get started:

Start with the basics: Consider the geography, climate, and natural resources of your world. How do these factors shape the culture, society, and daily life of your characters?
Develop your characters: Create complex, fully realized characters with their own histories, motivations, and desires. Your characters should feel like real people, even if they are fantastical creatures.
Establish rules and logic: Create a set of rules for your world and stick to them. This will help to make your world feel cohesive and believable.
Create a rich history: Think about the events and conflicts that have shaped your world and its cultures. This can add depth and complexity to your world.
Pay attention to details: Small details can help to make your world feel more believable and immersive. Consider the clothing, architecture, and daily customs of your world.
Show, don't tell: Instead of just telling your readers about your world, try to show them through the actions and experiences of your characters. This will help your world feel more real and immersive.

Remember, creating a believable and immersive fantasy world takes time and effort, but the results can be well worth it. By putting in the work to create a rich and detailed world, you can create a truly immersive and memorable fantasy experience for your readers.

How do I balance the use of magic in my fantasy world?

Balancing the use of magic in your fantasy world is important to maintain the believability and internal consistency of your world. Here are some tips to help you do this:

Establish the rules of magic: Decide how magic works in your world, including what it can and cannot do, how it is accessed and used, and any limitations or consequences that come with it.
Think about the cost of magic: Magic should not be a free or limitless resource. Consider the cost of using magic, both for the user and for the world itself.
Consider the rarity of magic: Magic should be rare and special in your world, rather than commonplace. This can help to make it feel more believable and meaningful.
Use magic sparingly: Avoid overusing magic in your story. If magic is constantly solving problems or providing easy solutions, it can diminish its impact and make your world feel less believable.
Make magic feel earned: Magic should be earned through skill, training, or other means, rather than simply being innate or available to anyone who wants it.

By following these tips, you can create a believable and immersive fantasy world where magic is a meaningful and integral part of the story, without breaking the internal logic or believability of your world.

How do I create unique and interesting cultures for my fantasy world?

Creating unique and interesting cultures for your fantasy world can add depth and complexity to your world, and make it feel more believable and immersive. Here are some tips to help you do this:

Start with real-world inspiration: Research and draw inspiration from real-world cultures, but be careful not to simply replicate or stereotype them. Mix and match elements from different cultures to create something new and unique.
Consider the geography and climate: The geography and climate of your world can shape the culture and daily life of your characters. Think about how the environment impacts the way your cultures develop and function.
Pay attention to details: Small details can add depth and believability to your cultures. Consider the clothing, customs, beliefs, and social norms of your cultures.
Create conflicts and tensions: No culture is perfect, and conflicts and tensions can add depth and complexity to your cultures. Consider the internal and external conflicts that shape your cultures and influence their relationships with other cultures.
Make your cultures feel lived in: Your cultures should feel like real, lived-in places with their own histories, traditions, and quirks. Don't be afraid to include the mundane aspects of daily life alongside the more extraordinary elements of your cultures.

By following these tips, you can create unique and interesting cultures that feel believable and immersive in your fantasy world.

How do I come up with names for characters, places, and events in my fantasy world?

Coming up with names for characters, places, and events in your fantasy world can be a fun and creative process. Here are some tips to help you do this:

Consider the theme and tone of your world: The names you choose should fit the overall theme and tone of your world. For example, if your world is dark and grim, you might choose darker, more ominous-sounding names.
Use real-world inspiration: You can draw inspiration from real-world cultures and languages to create unique and interesting names for your fantasy world.
Experiment with different sounds and syllables: Play around with different combinations of sounds and syllables to come up with names that feel unique and memorable.
Think about the meaning of the name: If you want your names to have meaning, consider the personality or role of the character, place, or event you are naming. This can help to create names that feel more meaningful and appropriate.
Keep a list of names: As you come up with names, keep a list so you can refer back to it and choose the best option for your characters, places, and events.

Remember, the names you choose for your fantasy world are an important part of its overall feel and tone. Take the time to come up with names that fit the theme and tone of your world, and that feel unique and interesting to your readers.

How do I design a believable and functional political system for my fantasy world?

Designing a believable and functional political system for your fantasy world can add depth and complexity to your world-building. Here are some tips to help you do this:

Consider the needs and values of your society: What are the needs and values of the society in your fantasy world? A political system should reflect and serve the needs and values of the people it represents.
Think about the history and culture of your world: The history and culture of your world can shape the development and function of your political system. Consider the events and conflicts that have shaped your world and how they might have influenced the way power is exercised and decisions are made.
Establish the rules and power dynamics of your system: Consider how power is exercised and decisions are made in your political system. Who holds power and how is it acquired? How are laws and policies made and enforced?
Consider the role of different groups: Think about the role of different groups in your political system, such as different classes, races, or religions. How are these groups represented and how do they interact with one another within the political system?
Make it feel lived in: A believable political system should feel like it has a long history and is shaped by the actions and choices of its people. Consider the traditions, customs, and conflicts that have shaped your political system over time.

By following these tips, you can design a believable and functional political system for your fantasy world that adds depth and complexity to your story.

How do I create realistic and diverse economies for my fantasy world?

Creating realistic and diverse economies for your fantasy world can add depth and complexity to your world-building. Here are some tips to help you do this:

Consider the resources and industries of your world: What resources and industries drive the economy of your fantasy world? Think about the natural resources, technological advancements, and cultural practices that shape the way goods and services are produced and exchanged.
Establish a system of currency: Determine what is used as currency in your fantasy world and how it is valued. Consider the impact of inflation, deflation, and other economic forces on the value of your currency.
Think about trade and commerce: How do different regions and cultures in your fantasy world interact with one another economically? What are the primary goods and services traded and how are they exchanged?
Consider the role of government and institutions: Think about the role of government and institutions in your fantasy world's economy. How do they regulate and support economic activity?
Make it feel lived in: A believable economy should feel like it has a long history and is shaped by the actions and choices of its people. Consider the events, conflicts, and technological advancements that have shaped your economy over time.

By following these tips, you can create realistic and diverse economies for your fantasy world that add depth and complexity to your story.

How do I build a pantheon of gods and deities for my fantasy world?

Building a pantheon of gods and deities for your fantasy world can add depth and complexity to your world-building. Here are some tips to help you do this:

Consider the culture and beliefs of your world: What do the people of your fantasy world believe about the gods and deities? How do these beliefs shape their culture and daily lives?
Create a hierarchy of gods: Consider the relationships and hierarchies among the gods and deities in your pantheon. Who holds the most power and influence, and how do the different deities interact with one another?
Establish the domains and abilities of your gods: Determine the domains and abilities of each god and deity in your pantheon. What do they represent and what powers do they have?
Think about the origin and history of your gods: How did your gods and deities come to be, and what events and conflicts have shaped their relationships and roles in your world?
Make it feel lived in: A believable pantheon should feel like it has a long history and is shaped by the actions and choices of its deities and the people who worship them. Consider the traditions, rituals, and myths that surround your gods and deities.

By following these tips, you can build a pantheon of gods and deities for your fantasy world that adds depth and complexity to your story.

How do I create a detailed and believable history for my fantasy world?

Creating a detailed and believable history for your fantasy world can add depth and complexity to your world-building. Here are some tips to help you do this:

Start with the basics: Consider the geography, climate, and natural resources of your world and how they have changed over time. How have these factors influenced the development and history of your world?
Think about the cultures and societies of your world: How have different cultures and societies developed and interacted with one another over time? What conflicts and events have shaped their histories?
Establish a timeline: Create a timeline of major events and conflicts in your world's history. This can help to give your world a sense of progression and change over time.
Pay attention to details: Small details can add depth and believability to your world's history. Consider the customs, beliefs, and daily life of different cultures and societies throughout different time periods.
Make it feel lived in: A believable history should feel like it has a long and complex past, shaped by the actions and choices of its people. Don't be afraid to include mundane as well as extraordinary events in your world's history.

How do I design a believable and diverse ecosystem for my fantasy world?

Designing a believable and diverse ecosystem for your fantasy world can add depth and realism to your world-building. Here are some tips to help you do this:

Consider the geography and climate of your world: The geography and climate of your world will shape the types of plants and animals that can thrive there. Think about how these factors might influence the development and diversity of your world's ecosystem.
Establish food chains and predator-prey relationships: Consider the relationships between different species in your fantasy world. How do they rely on one another for survival, and how do they compete for resources?
Think about the role of humans: How do humans fit into and impact the ecosystem of your world? Consider how their actions and technology might influence the balance of nature.
Make it feel lived in: A believable ecosystem should feel like a complex and dynamic place, shaped by the interactions of different species and the environment. Don't be afraid to include the less glamorous aspects of nature, such as disease and predation, to create a more realistic ecosystem.

By following these tips, you can design a believable and diverse ecosystem for your fantasy world that adds depth and realism to your story.

How do I decide on the level of technology in my fantasy world?

Deciding on the level of technology in your fantasy world is an important part of world-building, as it can shape the way your characters live and interact with the world. Here are some tips to help you decide on the level of technology in your fantasy world:

Consider the needs and values of your society: What are the needs and values of the society in your fantasy world? The level of technology should reflect and serve these needs and values.
Think about the resources and industries of your world: What resources and industries drive the economy of your fantasy world? These can shape the level of technological advancement in your world.
Establish the level of scientific and technological understanding: Consider how much the people in your fantasy world understand about science and technology. This can influence the level of technological advancement they are able to achieve.
Consider the role of magic: If magic is a part of your fantasy world, think about how it might impact the development and use of technology.
Make it feel lived in: A believable level of technology should feel like it has a history and is shaped by the actions and choices of the people in your world. Consider the events, conflicts, and technological advancements that have shaped the level of technology in your world over time.

How do I create believable and diverse magical creatures and beings for my fantasy world?

Creating believable and diverse magical creatures and beings for your fantasy world can add depth and wonder to your world-building. Here are some tips to help you do this:

Start with the basics: Consider the physical characteristics, abilities, and habitats of your magical creatures and beings. How do these factors shape their behavior and relationships with other creatures and humans?
Establish the rules of magic: Decide how magic works in your world, including what it can and cannot do, how it is accessed and used, and any limitations or consequences that come with it. This will help to create a cohesive and believable magical ecosystem.
Think about the culture and society of your world: How do different cultures and societies in your fantasy world interact with and view magical creatures and beings? Consider the myths, beliefs, and customs that surround these creatures.
Pay attention to details: Small details can add depth and believability to your magical creatures and beings. Consider their appearance, habits, and behaviors.
Make them feel lived in: A believable magical creature or being should feel like it has a history and is shaped by its interactions with the world and its inhabitants. Don't be afraid to include the mundane as well as extraordinary aspects of their lives.

By following these tips, you can create believable and diverse magical creatures and beings for your fantasy world that add depth and wonder to your story.

How do I balance the use of technology and magic in my fantasy world?

Balancing the use of technology and magic in a fantasy world can be a challenging task, as it involves finding the right balance between two elements that are often seen as being in opposition to each other. Here are a few things you might consider when trying to balance technology and magic in your fantasy world:

Establish the role of technology and magic in your world: Think about the role that each element plays in your world and how they interact with each other. Is technology more prevalent, or is magic more common? How do people use each element in their everyday lives?
Determine the limitations of technology and magic: Consider the limitations of both technology and magic in your world. For example, magic might be more powerful but also more unpredictable, while technology might be more reliable but also more limited in scope.
Decide on the origins of technology and magic: Think about where technology and magic come from in your world. Are they the result of human ingenuity and innovation, or are they the result of otherworldly forces?
Consider the social and cultural implications of technology and magic: Think about how different societies in your world view and use technology and magic. Are they embraced or feared? How do they shape the way people live their lives?

By considering these elements and finding a balance that works for your world, you can create a rich and believable fantasy setting that incorporates both technology and magic.

How do I design a believable and functional system of government for my fantasy world?

Designing a believable and functional system of government for a fantasy world can be a challenging task, as it requires you to consider a wide range of factors and create a system that is both believable and functional within the context of your world. Here are a few steps you might follow when designing a government for your fantasy world:

Determine the size and scope of your government: Think about how large your government is and what it is responsible for. Is it a small, local government that only has jurisdiction over a single city or region, or is it a large, centralized government that has authority over a vast territory?
Decide on the form of government: Consider the different types of government that exist in the real world and how they might work in your fantasy setting. Do you want to create a monarchy, a democracy, an oligarchy, or something else entirely?
Establish the branches of government: Consider the different branches of government that might exist in your world and how they function. For example, you might have a legislative branch that makes laws, an executive branch that enforces them, and a judicial branch that interprets and applies them.
Determine the powers and responsibilities of each branch: Think about what powers and responsibilities each branch of government has in your world and how they work together to govern your society.
Consider the role of magic and technology in your government: Think about how magic and technology might be used in your government and how they might impact the way it functions.

By following these steps and carefully considering the various elements that make up a government, you can create a believable and functional system for your fantasy world.

How do I create a believable and immersive fantasy world map?

Creating a believable and immersive fantasy world map can be a challenging task, as it requires you to consider a wide range of factors and create a map that is both visually appealing and believable within the context of your world. Here are a few steps you might follow when creating a fantasy world map:

Determine the size and scope of your world: Think about how large your world is and what it consists of. Do you want to create a world that is similar in size to Earth, or do you want to create a smaller or larger world?
Consider the geography and climate of your world: Think about the different types of terrain that exist in your world and how they might impact the way people live and the types of civilizations that exist. You should also consider the climate of your world and how it might vary from place to place.
Decide on the locations and names of different regions and landmarks: Think about the different regions and landmarks that exist in your world and how they might be named. You might want to use real-world place names as inspiration, or you can create entirely new names that are unique to your world.
Draw the outline of your map: Once you have a good idea of the size and layout of your world, you can begin to draw the outline of your map. You can use a variety of tools for this, including pencil and paper, digital drawing software, or online map-making tools.
Add details and labels to your map: After you have the basic outline of your map, you can start to add in more detailed information, such as cities, roads, rivers, and other landmarks. You should also label different regions and landmarks to make your map more immersive and easy to navigate.

How do I create believable and diverse societies for my fantasy world?

Creating believable and diverse societies for a fantasy world can be a challenging task, as it requires you to consider a wide range of factors and create societies that are both believable and diverse within the context of your world. Here are a few steps you might follow when creating societies for your fantasy world:

Determine the size and scope of your societies: Think about how large your societies are and what they consist of. Do you want to create small, isolated communities or large, complex societies?
Consider the geography and climate of your world: Think about how the geography and climate of your world might impact the way people live and the types of societies that exist. For example, a harsh, arid desert climate might support a different type of society than a temperate, lush forest climate.
Decide on the social and cultural norms of your societies: Think about the values and beliefs that shape the way people live in your societies. Do they have strong family bonds, or are they more individualistic? Do they value honor and tradition, or are they more progressive and open to change?
Establish the economic systems of your societies: Consider the types of economic systems that exist in your societies and how they impact the way people live. Do they have a free market economy, or is the government more involved in the economy?
Consider the role of technology and magic in your societies: Think about how technology and magic might be used in your societies and how they might impact the way people live and work.

How do I design a believable and functional system of law and justice for my fantasy world?

Designing a believable and functional system of law and justice for a fantasy world can be a challenging task, as it requires you to consider a wide range of factors and create a system that is both believable and functional within the context of your world. Here are a few steps you might follow when designing a system of law and justice for your fantasy world:

Determine the size and scope of your system: Think about how large your system is and what it is responsible for. Is it a small, local system that only has jurisdiction over a single city or region, or is it a large, centralized system that has authority over a vast territory?
Decide on the form of your system: Consider the different types of legal systems that exist in the real world and how they might work in your fantasy setting. Do you want to create a system based on common law, civil law, or something else entirely?
Establish the principles and values that shape your system: Think about the principles and values that are important to your society and how they should be reflected in your system of law and justice. For example, do you want your system to prioritize fairness and justice, or are other values, such as obedience to authority or social order, more important?
Determine the role of magic and technology in your system: Think about how magic and technology might be used in your system of law and justice and how they might impact the way it functions.
Consider the social and cultural implications of your system: Think about how different societies in your world view and use your system of law and justice. How does it shape the way people live their lives?

How do I create a believable and immersive system of religion for my fantasy world?

Creating a believable and immersive system of religion for a fantasy world can be a challenging task, as it requires you to consider a wide range of factors and create a system that is both believable and immersive within the context of your world. Here are a few steps you might follow when creating a system of religion for your fantasy world:

Determine the size and scope of your religion: Think about how widespread your religion is and what it consists of. Do you want to create a single, dominant religion, or a number of smaller, more specialized religions?
Consider the social and cultural context of your religion: Think about the values and beliefs that shape the way people live in your world and how they might be reflected in your religion. Do you want your religion to be more progressive and open to change, or more traditional and focused on preserving the past?
Decide on the deities and pantheon of your religion: Think about the deities and pantheon that exist in your religion and how they are worshipped. Do your deities have specific domains or areas of responsibility, or are they more general in nature?
Establish the rituals and practices of your religion: Consider the types of rituals and practices that are important to your religion and how they are carried out. Do you want your religion to have complex, elaborate rituals, or more simple, straightforward practices?
Consider the role of magic and technology in your religion: Think about how magic and technology might be used in your religion and how they might impact the way it functions.

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