wandeither

Wandeither is a term used in speculative fiction and game design to describe a narrative or design mechanism in which two possible futures or paths are presented concurrently, allowing exploration of both without a single linear commitment. The word blends wander, suggesting movement through options, with either, signaling duality.

Originating in online writing forums and design discussions in the early 2010s, wandeither is a descriptive label rather than a formally defined concept. It is used informally by writers and developers to discuss dual-path storytelling and the tension between competing outcomes. There is no standardized syntax for its use across media.

In practice, a wandeither approach may manifest as parallel scenes, alternate endings, or a user interface that lets readers or players switch between options. Some implementations present both futures simultaneously, while others present each path sequentially before a convergence or resolution. The technique emphasizes exploration and ambiguity over immediate commitment.

Applications of the technique appear in interactive fiction, narrative-driven games, and tabletop prompts, where two believable futures are offered and the audience can examine consequences from multiple angles. It is related to branching narratives and parallel worlds but distinguished by its explicit dual-path framing without a guaranteed single outcome.

See also: branching narrative, alternate timeline, parallel world, choose-your-own-adventure, interactive fiction, non-linear storytelling.