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Message: <blockquote data-quote="Silveras" data-source="post: 1501898" data-attributes="member: 6271">Eric is correct. A lot depends on the level at which you look at something, too. At the most generalized, all plots fall into one of 16 (IIRC) basic definitions. There are actually professional writers' handbooks on the markets that describe this issue, and talk about how to deal with it. The details add a lot. The specifics of why the villain/villainess wants revenge (for example), coupled with the development of the character (the reader getting to "like", or at least sympathize with, him/her) also does a lot to enhance the experience. When it comes to fantasy gaming (as opposed to writing in general), there are many standard elements that have been "done to death". However, one of the appeals of fantasy gaming (as opposed to some other types) is the interaction of known quantities -- archetypes, and iconic representations of virtue -- in traditional situations. The quote Eric mentions "There is nothing new under the sun" comes from the Sherlock Holmes stories, and is particularly appropriate. Holmes was bored by most crime; he knew who did it, because he had catalogued all the known variations of crimes. The cases he took were ones that presented him with a new variation.</blockquote>