Handwavium: The Mysterious Material That Can Change the Course of Your Story

As a journalist and tabletop RPG enthusiast, I'm excited to introduce you to a fascinating concept that can elevate your storytelling: handwavium. This term refers to any hypothetical but unobtainable material with desirable properties, often used as a McGuffin or solution to an esoteric problem. In this article, we'll delve into the world of handwavium and explore its applications in fiction, tabletop RPGs, and beyond.

Hypothetical: This means that handwavium can be a real concept in your setting, but it hasn't yet proven itself as fact. It could remain hypothetical throughout the story arc or be discovered to be true (or false) during the course of the narrative. Unobtainable: This descriptor indicates that players cannot actually acquire handwavium, but its effects can be achieved through storytelling. Material: Handwavium can take many forms, from a physical object to an effect with magical or supernatural properties.

Desirable: The PCs (and NPCs) will want to obtain handwavium due to its supposedly unobtainable nature and potential benefits. Engineering: As per Arthur C. Clarke's third law, any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic. This means that an "engineering" aspect of handwavium can be magical in nature as well. Most likely, the most common usage of handwavium in fiction is in Star Trek, where characters use crystals to power genesis machines and traverse wormholes.

Examples of handwavium can range from mysterious artifacts like the "feral seeds" in our current AD&D adventure, Baltron's Beacon, to advanced technologies like encrypted thumb drives or blue crystal energy sources. When used effectively, handwavium leaves gaps in knowledge for players, encouraging them to ask questions and engage with the mystery.

When to use handwavium? Injecting a bit of mystery around your story's goals or mission objectives can be potent. However, don't overuse it, as it might lead to confusion or frustration from players. Be prepared for potential questions from your PCs and have answers ready. Handwavium can add an air of powerful mystery, but it's essential to balance it with clarity and engagement.

As a tabletop RPG enthusiast, I've found handwavium to be a great tool for adding depth and discovery to my games. When used sparingly, it can create a sense of accomplishment and confidence in players as they solve mysteries. Remember, the key is balance – not overusing handwavium or abusing its potential.

So, are you ready to introduce some mysterious materials into your game? With handwavium, you have a wealth of options for adding an air of mystery and wonder to your story. Open this chest of hypothetical materials and discover the secrets within!

Conclusion

In conclusion, handwavium is a versatile concept that can elevate your storytelling and tabletop RPGs. By understanding its applications and limitations, you can create engaging mysteries, add depth to your world-building, and provide players with a sense of discovery and accomplishment.