The Three-Act Structure is one of the most enduring and widely used frameworks in storytelling. At its core, it divides a narrative into three distinct parts: an introduction to the central problem (Act I: Exposition), the development of rising action as tension builds (Act II: Rising Action), and the resolution of the problem in a climactic pay-off (Act III: Climax and Resolution). For experienced RPG game masters, understanding and applying this structure can lead to more engaging and cohesive scenarios that captivate players from start to finish.

This article explores how the Three-Act Structure translates into the unique, collaborative storytelling of tabletop role-playing games. By focusing on four essential elements – a problem, proactive protagonists, a source of tension or conflict, and a satisfying climax – game masters can create scenarios that resonate with players and provide an exciting narrative experience.

Act I: Exposition – Setting the Stage with a Scenario Hook

In RPGs, Act I typically begins with a scenario hook in the first scene, establishing the scenario goal within the first 10 to 15 minutes. This approach replaces lengthy exposition with immediate engagement. Alternatively, the scenario might start in medias res – throwing players into the middle of an action scene, effectively beginning the game closer to Act II.

Regardless of how it begins, Act I sets up the story by presenting a question, goal, or problem that will drive the scenario forward. The scenario hook should lay the foundation for the central conflict.

Act II: Rising Action – Developing Tension Through Conflict and Obstacles

Act II is the longest part of the story and focuses on the players’ attempts to achieve the goal established in Act I. However, this goal must not be easily attainable. In Act I or in the first half of Act II, game masters should introduce sources of conflict that prevent the player characters from quickly reaching their objective.

These sources of conflict, whether physical challenges, moral dilemmas, or antagonistic forces, create obstacles that the player characters must overcome. A key element of many scenarios is the personification of the central source of conflict in a villain, a non-player character whose goals are diametrically opposed to those of the protagonists. This kind of antagonistic force can deepen the narrative and heighten player engagement by creating direct confrontations.

The purpose of these conflicts is to sustain and increase tension. The level of tension should escalate steadily throughout Act II, creating a sense of urgency and driving the players toward the climax. Reversals – unexpected changes in the narrative that shift player expectations – can be especially effective for adding complexity and maintaining momentum. By the end of Act II, the tension should reach its peak, setting the stage for Act III.

Act III: Climax and Resolution – Delivering the Pay-Off

Act III begins with the climax, the scene in which the problem introduced in Act I and developed in Act II is resolved. This moment represents the culmination of the scenario and provides the ultimate pay-off for the players’ choices and efforts.

While the climax serves as the narrative’s high point, the resolution of the problem is what provides a sense of satisfaction for the players. The resolution should reflect the players’ agency and accomplishments, demonstrating how their decisions and actions influenced the scenario’s outcome. It ties together the conflicts and challenges introduced earlier, delivering a meaningful conclusion that feels earned.

After the climax, the denouement serves to illustrate the consequences of the players’ actions and how they have changed the game world. This is an opportunity to highlight the significance of the resolution and its broader implications. While often brief in RPGs, the denouement is crucial for giving players a sense of closure and reinforcing the importance of their choices in shaping the new status quo.

Why the Three-Act Structure Works for RPGs

The Three-Act Structure provides a robust framework for designing RPG scenarios by centering on a problem, proactive protagonists, sources of tension, and resolution in a climax. It ensures that every session has a clear narrative throughline, with each act serving a distinct role in building a cohesive and engaging story.

However, while the structure itself is a valuable tool, it is the four essential elements – problem, protagonists, tension, and climax – that truly drive a scenario’s success. The focus should be less on adhering rigidly to the three acts and more on ensuring that these elements are present and well-developed. This flexibility allows game masters to tailor their scenarios to the needs of their players while maintaining a strong narrative foundation.

This approach is inspired by storytelling insights shared by Scott “Angry” Rehm in his 2018 blog posts on TheAngryGM.