The Table of Plot Twists

The Table of Plot Twists
Nothing is sweeter than the look on your players' faces whenever you drop that big, mind-blowing plot twist! Their jaws drop, their eyes go wide, and then with a big grin, you just say "and that is where we are going to end this session", followed up by a resounding groan from all the players at the table. In a game all about storytelling, it is these big, unexpected moments that make for a truly memorable tale.

What is a Plot Twist?
One of the most difficult things about telling a story in an age filled with movies, TV shows, comic books, and novels is successfully surprising your viewers (or in this case, players) with a dramatic story moment that they didn't see coming. People are becoming better at predicting the outcome of a story, having seen so many tricks before.

And yet, being able to catch the audience off guard is part of what makes a story so special. It is that big reveal moment that people remember most. Game of Thrones fans will relate with conversations about "where were you when the Red Wedding happened"! Everyone loves to be surprised and kept on the edge of their seat, and as storytellers, it is our job to make this happen!

How to Use This Guide
This document is meant to be used as a tool to help brainstorm big story moments for a campaign, book, or other type of story, though it is most targeted at Tabletop RPG players. Some of the twists offered in the sections below require prior planning, while others can be done at the drop of a hat. It is your job as the storyteller to decide which plot twists fit your story, and how to execute them.

The guide is broken down into headings that help to categorize the type of twists below, so that it is easier to find the inspiration you need. The tables also offer roll numbers if you decide to live dangerously and roll for stories.