Generate Choose-Your-Own-Adventure (CYOA) Stories Using AI Tools

Here’s a comprehensive list of writing prompts for AI to generate Choose-Your-Own-Adventure (CYOA) stories. These prompts are categorized by genre to inspire diverse narratives and branching paths.

Bonus: use these prompts with our AdventureBuildr CYOA Story Generator Custom GPT

Requires a ChatGPT Account

Instructions for Chatbot Prompts


General Story Generation Prompts

  1. Story Introduction Prompt:
    • “Create an engaging introduction for a [genre] CYOA story where the main character is [character description]. Set the scene and introduce the initial conflict or goal.”
    Example:
    • “Create an engaging introduction for a fantasy CYOA story where the main character is a young mage discovering their powers. Set the scene in a mystical forest and introduce the initial conflict of a looming darkness threatening the land.”
  2. Decision Point Prompt:
    • “At this point in the story, present the reader with a critical decision. Provide three choices that are clear and impactful, each leading to different outcomes.”
    Example:
    • “The hero reaches a fork in the road. Present the reader with three choices: take the left path leading into a dark forest, choose the right path heading towards distant mountains, or set up camp and wait until morning.”
  3. Branch Outcome Prompt:
    • “Write the outcome of the choice where the reader decides to [choice]. Describe the immediate consequences and set up the next decision point.”
    Example:
    • “Write the outcome of the choice where the reader decides to enter the abandoned castle. Describe what they find inside and any challenges they face, leading to the next decision point.”
  4. Character Interaction Prompt:
    • “Introduce a new character who is [character description]. Create a dialogue between the main character and this new character, offering important information or a quest.”
    Example:
    • “Introduce a mysterious traveler who is knowledgeable about ancient artifacts. Create a dialogue where they offer to guide the main character to a hidden temple in exchange for assistance.”
  5. Conflict Development Prompt:
    • “Develop a conflict where the main character must overcome [obstacle or antagonist]. Describe the challenges they face and how it impacts their journey.”
    Example:
    • “Develop a conflict where the main character must escape from a band of thieves. Describe the chase through the city streets and how it affects their mission to deliver a crucial message.”
  6. Cliffhanger Prompt:
    • “End the current scene with a cliffhanger that compels the reader to continue. Introduce an unexpected twist or revelation.”
    Example:
    • “As the main character opens the treasure chest, they hear a sudden noise behind them. End the scene with this cliffhanger, suggesting imminent danger.”
  7. Multiple Endings Prompt:
    • “Create a satisfying ending for the path where the reader chose to [specific choice]. Ensure the ending reflects the consequences of their decisions throughout the story.”
    Example:
    • “Create a satisfying ending for the path where the reader chose to ally with the dragon. Describe how this alliance changes the fate of the kingdom.”

Genre-Specific Prompts

Fantasy

  1. “Write an epic battle scene where the main character leads an army against dark forces. Include magical elements and high stakes.”
  2. “Describe the discovery of a hidden magical ability. Show the character’s reaction and how it changes their perspective.”
  3. “Create a dialogue with a wise old mentor who provides a crucial piece of advice or a magical item.”

Mystery

  1. “Set up a scene where the main character finds a puzzling clue at a crime scene. Describe the clue in detail.”
  2. “Introduce a suspicious character whose motives are unclear. Have the main character decide whether to trust them.”
  3. “Write a tense interrogation scene where the main character questions a key witness.”

Science Fiction

  1. “Describe the main character’s first encounter with an alien technology. Explain their observations and hypotheses.”
  2. “Create a scenario where the main character must choose between saving their ship or rescuing a stranded crew member.”
  3. “Write about the challenges of surviving on a newly discovered planet with harsh conditions.”

Horror

  1. “Write a chilling scene where the main character explores an abandoned building rumored to be haunted.”
  2. “Describe the feeling of being followed in a dark forest. Use sensory details to build suspense.”
  3. “Present a choice where the character must decide to open a mysterious door or leave it sealed.”

Adventure

  1. “Narrate a daring escape from a collapsing ancient temple. Include obstacles and split-second decisions.”
  2. “Write about discovering a lost civilization. Describe the environment and the inhabitants’ reactions.”
  3. “Create a scenario where the main character must navigate treacherous terrain using limited resources.”

Romance

  1. “Describe a chance meeting between the main character and a captivating stranger at a bustling marketplace.”
  2. “Write a heartfelt conversation under the stars where secrets are shared.”
  3. “Present a dilemma where the main character must choose between their duty and their feelings for someone.”

Advanced Prompts for Deeper Interactivity

  1. Conditional Outcomes Prompt:
    • “Based on the previous choices where the reader [earlier decision], write a scene that reflects the consequences of those actions. Introduce new challenges or advantages.”
    Example:
    • “Since the reader chose to help the wounded animal earlier, write a scene where the grateful creature returns to assist them in a time of need.”
  2. Moral Dilemma Prompt:
    • “Create a moral dilemma where the main character must choose between two difficult options, each with significant consequences.”
    Example:
    • “The main character can save either their best friend or a group of strangers from danger. Present the emotional struggle and possible outcomes.”
  3. Puzzle or Riddle Prompt:
    • “Introduce a puzzle or riddle that the reader must solve to progress. Provide clues within the narrative.”
    Example:
    • “The door to the ancient vault is locked with a code that relates to the phases of the moon. Write the scene including clues for the reader.”
  4. Time-Sensitive Decision Prompt:
    • “Write a scene where the main character must make an immediate decision under pressure. Emphasize the urgency and potential risks.”
    Example:
    • “With the castle under attack, the main character must decide whether to defend the gates, protect the king, or lead civilians to safety.”
  5. Multiple Perspectives Prompt:
    • “Switch the narrative to another character’s point of view to reveal new information or a different side of the story.”
    Example:
    • “Write from the antagonist’s perspective as they plan their next move against the protagonist.”

Prompts for Developing Branches

  1. Alternative Path Prompt:
    • “For readers who chose [alternative choice], write a scene that explores a different storyline. Ensure it offers unique challenges and opportunities.”
    Example:
    • “For readers who decided to refuse the quest, write a scene where they face unforeseen consequences in their hometown.”
  2. Branch Merging Prompt:
    • “Create a scene where two separate story branches converge. Reflect on how the different paths led to this point and impact the interactions.”
    Example:
    • “Regardless of previous choices, the main character arrives at the grand tournament. Describe how their prior actions affect their reception.”
  3. Hidden Path Prompt:
    • “Introduce a hidden choice or Easter egg that readers can discover through specific actions or decisions. Write the scene that unfolds if they find it.”
    Example:
    • “If the reader examines the mysterious symbol in the cave, unlock a secret passage leading to an ancient library.”

Prompts for Concluding the Story

  1. Triumphant Ending Prompt:
    • “Write a victorious ending where the main character achieves their goal. Tie up major plot threads and reflect on the journey.”
  2. Bittersweet Ending Prompt:
    • “Craft an ending where the main character succeeds but at a significant cost. Highlight the emotional impact and any lessons learned.”
  3. Cliffhanger Ending Prompt:
    • “End the story on a cliffhanger that sets up a potential sequel. Introduce a new challenge or reveal a surprising twist.”
  4. Multiple Endings Prompt:
    • “Develop different endings based on the reader’s key choices throughout the story. Ensure each ending feels complete and satisfying in its own way.”

Tips for Using These Prompts


By inputting these prompts into a chatbot, you can generate rich, interactive narratives for your CYOA stories. Remember to review and edit the AI-generated content to ensure it fits seamlessly into your overall story structure and maintains quality throughout.