laterworldbuilding
Laterworldbuilding is a term used in speculative fiction and game design to describe a practice in which details of a fictional world are developed progressively, rather than being fully specified before the story or product is released. The approach treats the world as an evolving system that reveals its rules, histories, and cultures over time.
The concept contrasts with upfront or front-loaded worldbuilding, where most critical world parameters are defined early.
Common techniques include establishing core parameters early, such as geography, power structures, and central conflicts, and
Benefits include reduced initial scope, greater adaptability, and sustained audience engagement. It can prevent paralysis by
Related concepts include incremental worldbuilding and serialized storytelling, where the world expands in response to plot