rulefiction

Rulefiction is a literary and artistic concept that explores the intersection of rules, systems, and narrative. It is not a strictly defined genre but rather a thematic approach to storytelling that emphasizes the impact of established regulations, laws, or social structures on characters and their experiences. These rules can be formal, like legal codes or scientific principles, or informal, such as social customs or unwritten community guidelines.

The core of rulefiction lies in observing how characters navigate, challenge, manipulate, or are ultimately constrained by these systems. This can lead to narratives that examine themes of obedience, rebellion, fairness, and the arbitrary nature of certain regulations. The "fiction" aspect refers to the imaginative creation of these worlds and their associated rules, often pushing them to logical extremes or exploring their unintended consequences.

Examples of rulefiction can be found across various media, including literature, film, and video games. Science fiction often employs rulefiction by imagining societies with advanced technologies or alien social structures governed by unique sets of rules. Dystopian narratives frequently use rulefiction to depict oppressive regimes that enforce strict and often illogical laws. Even in more mundane settings, stories that delve into the intricacies of bureaucracy or the unwritten rules of a specific subculture can be considered forms of rulefiction. The focus remains on the interplay between the established order and the individual's response to it.