forkasta

Forkasta is a term used in speculative fiction and theoretical discussions to refer to a branching event in a system where multiple outcomes diverge from a single origin. The word combines 'fork' with a suffix intended to imply multiplicity or abundance.

Origin and adoption: The term emerged in online forums and writing communities in the early 2010s and has since appeared in discussions about narrative design, game theory, and version-control metaphors. It is not part of formal ontologies or standards.

In narrative design, forkasta marks the point where a storyline splits into two or more paths, allowing authors to discuss branching choices and their consequences. In computing and software culture, it serves as a playful metaphor for repository forking and the management of divergent development lines.

In education and thought experiments, forkasta supports the visualization of decision trees and multiverse-like scenarios.

Criticism: Because it is informal and context-dependent, definitions vary and there is no canonical definition.