Info

Worldbuilder's Anvil

Do you have visions of fantasy world’s dancing through your head? Are you a gamemaster that wants to tell stories in your world? Are you a fiction writer who wants you next setting to be your best? Do you want to understand how fantasy worlds are made? Then this is the podcast for you. You are hereby invited! To join me on an epic adventure to explore topics on my worldbuilding podcast. Every Monday, Wednesday, Friday at midnight Eastern standard time. These shows will be specific topic about worldbuilding for 10-20 minutes.
RSS Feed
Worldbuilder's Anvil
2022
February
January


2021
December
November
October
September
August
June
May
April
March
February
January


2020
December
November
October
September
August
July
June
May
April
March
February
January


2019
December
November
October
September
August
July
June
May
April
March
February
January


2018
December
November
October
September
August
July
June
May
April
March
February
January


2017
December
November
October
September
August
July
June
May
April
March
February
January


2016
December
November
October
September
August
July
June
May
April
March
February
January


2015
December
November
October
September
August
July
June
May
April
March
February
January


All Episodes
Archives
Now displaying: July, 2017
Jul 30, 2017

Today's Topic GoT geek out on Westeros

This is the first time we have looked at the world in a while.  However, like many people, Michael and I started getting excited as the season 7 of HBO’s Game of Thrones approached so we had to take a moment and look at Westeros for the first time.

Sure, we might see a reservoir dog style ending with an army of ice zombies take the south.  Now take a few moments and join us as we fan boy over the very enjoyable HBO series, Game of Thrones.

Please Subscribe, Rate and Review us on iTunes
For complete Fantasy Worldbuilding, show notes go to Gardul.com

The bigger benefit for me was increased focus.  It was another major issue of mine.  However, that is a story for a different day.

Get the stories and hear the tips in this episode of the Worldbuilder’s Anvil Podcast

Listen to Michael and I as we go into this critical topic.

The Worldbuilding Task for the Day

Take over your world

The Real-world Task for the Day

Don’t be hot like Michael, Buy AC

 

Michael's Resources

Use Gardul.com/Amazon when shopping online to help support the show

Free Daily Focus Planner

 

Links

((((((((((((((((((((((((((( Visit Show notes )))))))))))))))))))))))))

http://gardul.com/blog/episode-185-game-of-thrones-and-other-confusing-musings

 

((((((((((((((((((((((((((( Mentions links )))))))))))))))))))))))))

Free Daily Focus Planner: https://www.smallbizlife.com/focus

 

((((((((((((((((((((((((((( Rate and Review us in iTunes )))))))))))))))))))))))))

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/worldbuilders-anvil/id956705643?mt=2

 

((((((((((((((((((((((((((( Like our Facebook Page )))))))))))))))))))))))))

https://www.facebook.com/GardulStories/

 

((((((((((((((((((((((((((( Join our Facebook Group )))))))))))))))))))))))))

https://www.facebook.com/groups/undercroft/

 

((((((((((((((((((((((( Support us by using our Amazon Affiliate Link )))))))))))))))))))))

http://gardul.com/Amazon

 

((((((((((((((((((((((((((( Jeff on Twitter  )))))))))))))))))))))))))

https://twitter.com/JefferyWIngram

((((((((((((((((((((((((((( Affiliate Mentions links )))))))))))))))))))))))))

 

Jul 23, 2017

Today's Topic What is a fantasy world without an Imperial or Royal Court

Outside of the magic, one of the most common features of the fantasy genre is the royal court. It might be the seat of power to the forces of good or the focus of evil. Or there could be a good and evil court.

Queens and Kings are here to stay

For whatever reason, people even in modern liberal democracies are still enthralled with these relics of the earliest civilizations. Some courts appear with minimal trappings, and others seem to be extraordinarily complex.

All of the courts have a few things in common

  • The build around the royal family
  • The leader will appoint prominent positions
  • Ceremonies will be used to reinforce the position of the queen or king

And typically, the structure will be mimicked by other influential people in the realm. The aristocracy or powerful commoners will set up their courts to prove their power, even when they are working to improve their positions in the Royal court.

Do not fly too close to the royal sun

However, as the smaller courts rise up, the King or Queen will often claim certain rights to themselves.  If those rules are trespassed on, it could cause a conflict with the monarch.

Please Subscribe, Rate and Review us on iTunes
For complete Fantasy Worldbuilding, show notes go to Gardul.com

The bigger benefit for me was increased focus.  It was another major issue of mine.  However, that is a story for a different day.

Get the stories and hear the tips in this episode of the Worldbuilder’s Anvil Podcast

Listen to Michael and I as we have some fun talking about royal courts.

Podcast Show Flow

  • What is a Royal Court System?
  • The Household
    • House and sometimes imprison royal family
    • Royals and harem and concubines
    • Patronage
  • The Council
    • General Advisors
    • Helps create laws, execute law, head judiciary
    • Some even elected the new rulers
  • The ceremonies
    • Collect Tribute
    • State meetings
    • Religious
  • The offices
    • Appoint or de facto (Harem in Constantinople)
    • Governors
    • Noble vs peasants
    • Used to help Royals and give nobles something to fight about
  • The Next Step
    • Inclusion of artist and others
    • Cabinets and bureaucracies

Please Subscribe, Rate and Review us on iTunes
For complete Fantasy Worldbuilding, show notes go to Gardul.com

The Worldbuilding Task for the Day

Look at a large state and think out the royal system.

 

The Real-world Task for the Day

Look at your country's executive branch and consider how it came out of the court system

 

Michael's Resources

Use Gardul.com/Amazon when shopping online to help support the show

Wiki on Royal courts

Wiki on Royal appointments

Titus

Free Daily Focus Planner

Links

((((((((((((((((((((((((((( Visit Show notes )))))))))))))))))))))))))

http://gardul.com/blog/episode-184-develop-your-fantasy-royal-court

 

((((((((((((((((((((((((((( Mentions links )))))))))))))))))))))))))

Free Daily Focus Planner: https://www.smallbizlife.com/focus

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Court_(royal)

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Court_appointment

 

((((((((((((((((((((((((((( Rate and Review us in iTunes )))))))))))))))))))))))))

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/worldbuilders-anvil/id956705643?mt=2

 

((((((((((((((((((((((((((( Like our Facebook Page )))))))))))))))))))))))))

https://www.facebook.com/GardulStories/

 

((((((((((((((((((((((((((( Join our Facebook Group )))))))))))))))))))))))))

https://www.facebook.com/groups/undercroft/

 

((((((((((((((((((((((( Support us by using our Amazon Affiliate Link )))))))))))))))))))))

http://gardul.com/Amazon

 

((((((((((((((((((((((((((( Jeff on Twitter  )))))))))))))))))))))))))

https://twitter.com/JefferyWIngram

((((((((((((((((((((((((((( Affiliate Mentions links )))))))))))))))))))))))))

Titus: http://amzn.to/2tB8IfP

Jul 16, 2017

Today's Topic A look at the first four rules of the magic system

So now we covered the basics of magic systems in episode 181, and we covered the first 4 questions in part of this series in episode 182. Let’s finish up our magic system in this episode.

The first 4 questions are about the details that make your magical system feel real.  However, that is not all you need for a system that feels like it exists.

Please Subscribe, Rate and Review us on iTunes
For complete Fantasy Worldbuilding, show notes go to Gardul.com

A magic system needs more

You magically system needs limitation.  Without limits, magic can just solve every problem without the conflict which creates the interest to finish stories.  It is the same problems that cause people to enjoy or play in games as well.

Limits on a magical system can create interest in multiple ways

First, all-powerful characters are just boring.  I mean Superman needs to have weaknesses or no one would read the comic.  If you do not limit magic, anyone that can control it becomes all powerful character; therefore, should dominate your stories and make them boring.

Also, It gives you new ways to create tension.  Think about a character who can use magic to solve a problem.  However, if they use magic they would have to sacrifice their daughter.  How much emotion does that add to the story?  Also, If the magic fails, and the daughter’s life was sacrificed for nothings, how would this affect your character going forward.

Magic systems are important to fantasy

However, I would recommend that you do not overthink it.  The more effects and limitations you interweave the best system ever can also make the use of magic impossible or be boring for those interacting with your stories.

Please Subscribe, Rate and Review us on iTunes
For complete Fantasy Worldbuilding, show notes go to Gardul.com

The bigger benefit for me was increased focus.  It was another major issue of mine.  However, that is a story for a different day.

Get the stories and hear the tips in this episode of the Worldbuilder’s Anvil Podcast

Listen to Michael and I look at the final part of our magic system series.

Podcast Show Flow

  • 5th Rule of Magic: What can magic not do?
    • body
    • spirit
    • wit
    • charm
    • knowledge
    • power
    • range (Even line of sight)
    • lack materials
    • finite magic
    • Exponential/logarithmic effect cost
    • Heaven’s choice
  • 6th Rule of Magic: What is the price of Magic
    • Your Magic
    • Your Reputation
    • Your Freedom
    • Your time
    • Your body
    • Your life
    • Your soul
    • Cost to others
    • Supernatural anger
  • 7th Rule of Magic: What happens when magic fails?

Please Subscribe, Rate and Review us on iTunes
For complete Fantasy Worldbuilding, show notes go to Gardul.com

The Worldbuilding Task for the Day

Finish off your magic system

The Real-world Task for the Day

Love your life.

Michael's Resources

Use Gardul.com/Amazon when shopping online to help support the show

Write A Functional Magic System

The 7 rules of fantasy magic systems

The 7 rules of fantasy magic systems, part 2

Episode 61: Kurriq Spirit Magic

Episode 64: Baurhdrakkiem Carver Magic

Episode 89: Magic, What helps? What Hurts?

Episode 112: Magic Vs Technology?

Free Daily Focus Planner

Podcast Show Flow

  • 5th Rule of Magic: What can magic not do?
    • body
    • spirit
    • wit
    • charm
    • knowledge
    • power
    • range (Even line of sight)
    • lack materials
    • finite magic
    • exponential / logarithmic effect cost
    • Heaven’s choice
  • 6th Rule of Magic: What is the price of Magic
    • Your Magic
    • Your Reputation
    • Your Freedom
    • Your time
    • Your body
    • Your life
    • Your soul
    • Cost to others
    • Supernatural anger
  • 7th Rule of Magic: What happens when magic fails?

Please Subscribe, Rate and Review us on iTunes
For complete Fantasy Worldbuilding, show notes go to Gardul.com

The Worldbuilding Task for the Day

Finish off your magic system

The Real-world Task for the Day

Love your life.

Michael's Resources

Use Gardul.com/Amazon when shopping online to help support the show

Write A Functional Magic System

The 7 rules of fantasy magic systems

The 7 rules of fantasy magic systems, part 2

Episode 61: Kurriq Spirit Magic

Episode 64: Baurhdrakkiem Carver Magic

Episode 89: Magic, What helps? What Hurts?

Episode 112: Magic Vs Technology?

Free Daily Focus Planner

Links

((((((((((((((((((((((((((( Visit Show notes )))))))))))))))))))))))))

http://gardul.com/blogepisode-183-rules-magic-system-part-3

 

((((((((((((((((((((((((((( Mentions links )))))))))))))))))))))))))

http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/SoYouWantTo/WriteAFunctionalMagicSystem

http://gardul.com/blog/episode-181-the-7-rules-of-fantasy-magic-systems

http://gardul.com/blog/episode-182-7-rules-fantasy-magic-systems-part-2

http://gardul.com/blog/episode-61-kurriq-spirit-magic/

http://gardul.com/blog/episode-64-baurhdrakkiem-carver-magic/

http://gardul.com/blog/episode-89magic-what-helps-what-hurts/

http://gardul.com/blog/episode-112-magic-vs-technology/

Free Daily Focus Planner: https://www.smallbizlife.com/focus

 

((((((((((((((((((((((((((( Rate and Review us in iTunes )))))))))))))))))))))))))

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/worldbuilders-anvil/id956705643?mt=2

 

((((((((((((((((((((((((((( Like our Facebook Page )))))))))))))))))))))))))

https://www.facebook.com/GardulStories/

 

((((((((((((((((((((((((((( Join our Facebook Group )))))))))))))))))))))))))

https://www.facebook.com/groups/undercroft/

 

((((((((((((((((((((((( Support us by using our Amazon Affiliate Link )))))))))))))))))))))

http://gardul.com/Amazon

 

((((((((((((((((((((((((((( Jeff on Twitter  )))))))))))))))))))))))))

https://twitter.com/JefferyWIngram

((((((((((((((((((((((((((( Affiliate Mentions links )))))))))))))))))))))))))

 

Jul 9, 2017

Today's Topic A look at the first four rules of the magic system

We covered the basics of the magic system in episode 181 or part one of this series. Now let us get into the details of the first four questions into the system.  I would like to give a great shout out to Write A Functional Magic System that completely inspired these episodes. Thanks tvtropes.org.

Please Subscribe, Rate and Review us on iTunes
For complete Fantasy Worldbuilding, show notes go to Gardul.com

If you want to create a better world, or share your creative content while living your life. You need to be increased focus.  It was another major issue of mine.  However, that is a story for a different day.

Get the stories and hear the tips in this episode of the Worldbuilder’s Anvil Podcast

Listen to Michael and I as we go into this critical topic.

Podcast Show Flow

  • 1st Rule of Magic: What type of Magic System?
    • Innate
    • Learned
    • Extra magical
    • Science as Magic
    • Illusions
    • Hybrid
  • 2nd Rule of Magic: How is magic powered?
    • Divine
    • Supernatural
    • Life Energy
    • Mana
    • Other Dimensions
    • Multiple
  • 3rd Rule of Magic: How magic is used?
    • Artifacts
    • Rituals
    • Schools
    • Spells
    • Science
    • Location (Sacred spaces, ley lines)
    • Inner (willpower, mental images)
    • Outer (gestures, voice, symbols, materials)
    • Combo
  • 4th Rule of Magic: Who can use magic?
    • Scholars
    • The Gifted / Cursed
    • The Chosen / Sold
    • Supernatural Beings
    • Genetics
    • Race Limited
    • Accidental
    • Everyone

Please Subscribe, Rate and Review us on iTunes
For complete Fantasy Worldbuilding, show notes go to Gardul.com

The Worldbuilding Task for the Day

Write down your magic system for the first 4 rules

The Real-world Task for the Day

Raise and an army of undead and rule the world!

Michael's Resources

Use Gardul.com/Amazon when shopping online to help support the show

Write A Functional Magic System

The 7 rules of fantasy magic systems

 

Episode 61: Kurriq Spirit Magic

Episode 64: Baurhdrakkiem Carver Magic

Episode 89: Magic, What helps? What Hurts?

Episode 112: Magic Vs Technology?

Free Daily Focus Planner

Links

((((((((((((((((((((((((((( Visit Show notes )))))))))))))))))))))))))

http://gardul.com/blog/episode-182-7-rules-fantasy-magic-systems-part-2

 

((((((((((((((((((((((((((( Mentions links )))))))))))))))))))))))))

Free Daily Focus Planner: https://www.smallbizlife.com/focus

http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/SoYouWantTo/WriteAFunctionalMagicSystem

http://gardul.com/blog/episode-181-the-7-rules-of-fantasy-magic-systems

http://gardul.com/blog/episode-61-kurriq-spirit-magic/

http://gardul.com/blog/episode-64-baurhdrakkiem-carver-magic/

http://gardul.com/blog/episode-89magic-what-helps-what-hurts/

http://gardul.com/blog/episode-112-magic-vs-technology/

 

((((((((((((((((((((((((((( Rate and Review us in iTunes )))))))))))))))))))))))))

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/worldbuilders-anvil/id956705643?mt=2

 

((((((((((((((((((((((((((( Like our Facebook Page )))))))))))))))))))))))))

https://www.facebook.com/GardulStories/

 

((((((((((((((((((((((((((( Join our Facebook Group )))))))))))))))))))))))))

https://www.facebook.com/groups/undercroft/

 

((((((((((((((((((((((( Support us by using our Amazon Affiliate Link )))))))))))))))))))))

http://gardul.com/Amazon

 

((((((((((((((((((((((((((( Jeff on Twitter  )))))))))))))))))))))))))

https://twitter.com/JefferyWIngram

((((((((((((((((((((((((((( Affiliate Mentions links )))))))))))))))))))))))))

History of the World Part 1: http://amzn.to/2ssbuQf

Jul 2, 2017

Today's Topic How to create a fantasy magic system that works

Magic is really one of the key features of a fantasy world.  Michael and I figured to stay on the ball we should now cover in depth creating a magic system for your fantasy world.

Podcast Show Flow

  • Why is magic system framework important?
    • Consistency
    • Saves time to start storytelling
    • Avoid lame Deus ex Machina or a god from a machine
    • Creates character conflicts
    • Saves time adding detail later
  • 1st Rule of Magic: What type of Magic System?
  • 2nd Rule of Magic: How is magic powered?
  • 3rd Rule of Magic: How magic is used?
  • 4th Rule of Magic: Who can use magic?
  • 5th Rule of Magic: What can magic not do?
  • 6th Rule of Magic: What is the price of Magic?
  • 7th Rule of Magic: What happens when magic fails?
  • Story warnings
    • Magic systems do not make good stories
    • Be careful breaking your rules
    • Frame the system, track the details as you use it
    • Follow your rules as you go forward
    • Be careful limiting your system

Please Subscribe, Rate and Review us on iTunes
For complete Fantasy Worldbuilding, show notes go to Gardul.com

The Worldbuilding Task for the Day

Look at your magic system, did you consider all the rules

 

The Real-world Task for the Day

Join the undercroft and let us know what rules we missed

 

Michael's Resources

Use Gardul.com/Amazon when shopping online to help support the show

Write A Functional Magic System

Episode 61: Kurriq Spirit Magic

Episode 64: Baurhdrakkiem Carver Magic

Episode 89: Magic, What helps? What Hurts?

Episode 112: Magic Vs Technology?

Free Daily Focus Planner

 

Links

((((((((((((((((((((((((((( Visit Show notes )))))))))))))))))))))))))

http://gardul.com/blog/episode-181-the-7-rules-of-fantasy-magic-systems

 

((((((((((((((((((((((((((( Mentions links )))))))))))))))))))))))))

 

Free Daily Focus Planner: https://www.smallbizlife.com/focus

http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/SoYouWantTo/WriteAFunctionalMagicSystem

http://gardul.com/blog/episode-61-kurriq-spirit-magic/

http://gardul.com/blog/episode-64-baurhdrakkiem-carver-magic/

http://gardul.com/blog/episode-89magic-what-helps-what-hurts/

http://gardul.com/blog/episode-112-magic-vs-technology/

 

((((((((((((((((((((((((((( Rate and Review us in iTunes )))))))))))))))))))))))))

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/worldbuilders-anvil/id956705643?mt=2

 

((((((((((((((((((((((((((( Like our Facebook Page )))))))))))))))))))))))))

https://www.facebook.com/GardulStories/

 

((((((((((((((((((((((((((( Join our Facebook Group )))))))))))))))))))))))))

https://www.facebook.com/groups/undercroft/

 

((((((((((((((((((((((( Support us by using our Amazon Affiliate Link )))))))))))))))))))))

http://gardul.com/Amazon

 

((((((((((((((((((((((((((( Jeff on Twitter  )))))))))))))))))))))))))

https://twitter.com/JefferyWIngram

((((((((((((((((((((((((((( Affiliate Mentions links )))))))))))))))))))))))))

History of the World Part 1: http://amzn.to/2ssbuQf

1