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Boulder Traps

Boulder Traps

ELEMENT

Boulder traps are a type of deadfall trap in which a large rock or boulder (or statue, log, or other heavy object) is set to crush unsuspecting intruders when the trap is sprung. These boulders may be positioned to roll down on their victims, swing into them, or fall directly on top of them. They are generally triggered by pressure plate or tripwire. Boulder traps are frequently found in ancient temples, treasure islands, and game dungeons. There may be skeletal remains or bloodstains nearby.

Synonyms: rolling boulders, falling boulders, swinging boulders, rocks
Example Mythonyms: the corridor of endless pain
Traps

Foundations

Traps

Overview

Fictional boulder traps often have an intricate mechanism to hold them in place until they are triggered. As with all traps, skeletal remains or bloodstains can be used to provide clues that danger is near.

Trigger Mechanism: How will the trap be activated? Consider the level of technology or magic in your world.

Delivery System: Rolling, falling, or a combination? Think about the desired pacing and challenge for your characters.

Escape Options: Escape from a trap is often important in narratives. Will there be obvious escape routes, or will characters need to improvise?

Ancient Traps

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Pitfalls
Blades
Boulders
Spikes
Flooding
Crushing
Flames
Creatures
Oubliettes
Cages
Darts
More!

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