Story Anchors
For narrative that branches after the inciting incident.
A story anchor for a branching narrative experience gives the inciting incident, followed by action the character takes toward his or her goal, followed by a turning point. Stories can branch in different places.
The following template is for a story that branches after the inciting incident and gives two different options for how the central character will take action in pursuit of their goal. Each branch of action then has at least one turning point.
TEMPLATE
When [something happens], CENTRAL CHARACTER [does something]…
> EITHER [by doing X, that likely involves another character]
>> AND THEN [some unexpected thing happens that turns the X story branch in a new direction].
> OR [by doing Y, that likely involves another character]
>> AND THEN [some unexpected thing happens that turns the Y story branch in a new direction].
EXAMPLE: CC Seeks Directions
When the QUEEN announces a Quest for the Diamond Fork, the SIR SOMEBODY seeks directions
> EITHER by purchasing a map from the Shopkeeper,
>> AND THEN the landmarks on the purchased map are missing from the real world.
> OR by begging the Barmaid to give him directions,
>> AND THEN the Barmaid agrees on the condition that he take her with him.
EXAMPLE: CC Travels on Instinct
When the QUEEN announces a Quest for the Diamond Fork, DAME SOMEBODY travels on instinct
> EITHER by turning left out of the castle gates
>> AND THEN she misses the “Road Construction Ahead” sign and falls into a manhole.
> OR by turning right out of the castle gates
>> AND THEN she smells fresh croissants from a bakery and stops in for a snack.
