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Game Concepts

This section explains the core concepts and terminology of Plot Unfolding Machine, as described in the official rulebook.

Plot Beat

A Plot Beat is a significant moment or event in your story. It can be a scene, a twist, or a turning point. Plot Beats are how you advance along the Plot Track.

Oracle

An Oracle is a tool for answering questions and generating inspiration. Oracles can be simple (yes/no), complex (Random Tables), or narrative (Oracles). Learn more in the Oracles section.

Scene

A Scene is a narrative unit—an event, conversation, or action sequence. Scenes are often created or changed by Plot Beats.

Plot Track

A Plot Track is the structure of your story, divided into beats. It helps you organize your adventure and see your progress. See the Plot Tracks page for details.

Plot Node

Plot Nodes are the building blocks of your story: world elements, obstacles, findings, questions, characters, and locations. See the Plot Nodes page for more.

Random Prompt

A Random Prompt is a suggestion from the app for what could happen next. It can invoke plot nodes or random events. See Random Tables for inspiration.

Modified Proposal

A Modified Proposal is when you suggest a scene, and the app adds a twist or change. See the Plot Tracks page for usage.

Entities

Entities are characters, locations, and compendiums (in PUM Companion)

Explore the linked sections above for more details and examples!