Why Every Campaign Needs a Story Question

A clear story question gives your campaign a compass.
It frames the premise, focuses choices, and turns sessions into chapters that feel like they belong together.

I use a simple format:
When [inciting event] happens, the characters pursue [goal]. Will they succeed when [opposition] stands in the way?

It is flexible enough for any table.
It also helps you decide what lore to surface, which scenes to prep, and how the world should react when players take action.

Here are practical ways to put it to work:

• Write one sentence before Session Zero. Share it with the group so everyone knows what the campaign is trying to answer.
• Offer two or three options. Let the table pick the question you are excited to run.
• Align scenes to the question. Prep encounters that either move the party toward the goal or reveal the force that opposes them.
• Track action and consequence. Each choice should change the board. Note who benefits, who is threatened, and what that triggers next.
• Reveal lore that matters now. Surface factions, places, and secrets that touch the question. Save the rest for later.
• Refresh the question by arc. After a milestone, update the wording to reflect what the party learned and who now stands in their way.

Quick examples:

• When wild magic surges across the realm, the party seeks the source. Will they succeed while rival cabals fight to control the chaos.
• When a tyrant bleeds his people dry, the party works to expose his corruption. Will they succeed as his spies and mercenaries close in.
• When a dragon ravages the coast, the party hunts it down. Will they succeed once they discover a wizard is pulling the strings.

The goal is momentum. A good story question lets curiosity steer the adventure while keeping the campaign pointed in a clear direction.

For the full walkthrough and examples from my table, be sure to check out the video.

Cheers,
Brian