One of the most essential tools I employ when game mastering, both in prep and play, is what I call a narrative framework . This is my term for it - others may use different terms, but virtually all role-playing games leverage at least some level of narrative framework. Most of my play experience is in games where there is a dedicated GM and limited player authorial power over the setting, but I also suspect these principles would hold true in to greater or lesser extent in games with shared authorial power or with GMless play. In my experience, recognizing that my games have a narrative framework and being aware of it as I plan and run my games helps me be more effective at creating fun experiences as a game master.  What is a Narrative Framework? A narrative framework is that collection of elements which, when players engage with them, can become a story.  A narrative framework isn't in and of itself a story, which requires the PCs to interact with the setting and its inhabi...