This is one of those topics that at first glance is only suitable for the fantasy genre – The nature of undeath!
However, as certain shows and films have shown us, the undead can be found in multiple genres – the difference being essentially how they came to exist in the first place.
For worlds where the undead don’t exist and are just myths and legends, the questions/prompts below can be used as to provide consistent “lore” and so on.
- What is the most common form of the undead?
- Are the undead all corporeal/physical or spirit-like?
- Do the various types of undead share common traits?
- Do they have a common origin or source?
- Who/What is the most (in)famous undead individual?
- What is the typical weakness of the undead?
- Are there any types considered to be “good”?
- Can undead be returned to life?
- What skills, memories or abilities do the undead retain from their mortal life?
- Can undead be permanently destroyed and if so how?
Bonus question – Are there any festivals/holidays dedicated to undead/death in your world and what are the details?
List of world-building prompts & questions
List of prompts and questions for characters
World Anvil gives you a series of tools, templates and prompts to help manage and build your world – (Affiliate Link)
What world-building topic would you like to see next time? Let me know in the comments below or on social media.
