Read a lot of existing fantasy stories. This can inspire you. For instance, if you read about a magical ring in one story, you might think about creating a story around a magical bracelet. It gives you a starting point.
Think about different types of magic. You could have magic based on emotions, like love magic that can heal wounds or anger magic that can destroy obstacles. Build a story around a character who discovers and has to control this new form of magic.
Look at real - world mythology for inspiration. For instance, Greek mythology has all kinds of gods, monsters, and heroic tales. You can take elements from it and put your own spin on them. Maybe create a story where modern - day humans accidentally stumble upon a hidden world based on Greek mythology.
To develop conflict ideas for a fantasy story, start with the setting. If your story is set in a world divided by a great chasm, the two sides could be in conflict over resources or different beliefs. You can also play with the concept of fate. A character who is fated to be a great hero but wants a normal life creates an internal conflict. Additionally, think about hierarchies. In a world of magic, there could be a conflict between the high - level mages who hoard knowledge and power and the lower - level mages who want equality. It's all about creating opposing forces and desires within your story world.
Read a lot of fantasy books. By immersing yourself in different fantasy worlds, you can get inspiration. For example, if you read about a unique magic system in one book, you might be able to adapt it in your own way. Another way is to look at nature. Think about how the changing seasons could be translated into a magic cycle in your story. Also, daydream. Let your mind wander and think about what if scenarios. What if there was a world where people could fly? How would that change society?
Read other fantasy stories. They can inspire you with different settings, characters, and plot twists. For example, if you read about a dragon in one story, you could think about how to make your own version of a dragon, like a dragon made of ice or one that can speak in riddles.
Look at nature for inspiration. For instance, the way a forest changes throughout the seasons can give you ideas. In a fantasy story, a forest could transform into different magical landscapes in each season, like a spring forest full of singing flowers, or a winter forest where the trees are made of ice. You can also think about real - life mythologies and give them a new twist.
One way to develop ideas for a good fantasy story is to start with a simple concept like a magical object. Then, think about what this object can do, who made it, and why it's so important. Let's say it's a crystal that can grant wishes. But there's a catch - every wish comes with a terrible price. You can build your story around different characters who discover this crystal and how their lives are changed by it. Also, daydreaming can be very helpful. Just let your mind wander and imagine strange and wonderful things.
Read a lot of other fantasy novels. This will expose you to different concepts, worlds, and characters that can inspire your own ideas. For instance, if you read about a magical forest in one book, you might think about creating your own version with different types of magical plants and creatures.
You can start by looking at real - world mythology. For instance, Greek mythology has all kinds of gods, monsters, and epic quests. You can take elements from it and twist them into your own unique fantasy idea. Say, take the concept of the Minotaur and place it in a modern - day city underground where it has been forgotten for centuries and is now awakened by an accidental excavation.
Look at nature for inspiration. For instance, a forest could be a magical place full of fairies and hidden paths. Or a waterfall could be a portal to another world. You can also think about different mythologies and incorporate elements from them, like Greek or Norse mythology.
Read a lot of urban fantasy works. This will expose you to different concepts and ideas that you can build on or twist in your own way. You can also take elements from different mythologies and blend them into an urban setting. For example, take the concept of Norse Valkyries and make them motorcycle-riding warriors in a modern city. And don't be afraid to play with the rules of magic. Maybe in your story, magic is powered by recycled materials.