Outposts (synonyms: base, station; fictionalized examples: Outpost Echo) are small, forward bases or encampments for an army, scientific organization, or empire. Typically, outposts are located in remote locations and are occupied or staffed by a smaller number of individuals. Outposts may contain a watchtower or a fort. They may be located on frontiers or in borderlands and overlook dangerous areas like the wilds, wastes, or a hostile nation. Scientific outposts may be positioned to study natural or unnatural phenomena such as volcanoes, wormholes, or strange magical events. They may be home to scouts, rangers, scientists, and soldiers. Outposts in fictional worlds are frequently found in ruins or abandoned.

When designing outposts, consider the length of time people are stationed at these locations as well as how often they are resupplied. Getting food, ammo, communications, and/or other materials to and from an outpost presents narrative opportunities. Also consider what the people of these locations do for entertainment. This may be an opportunity for a fictional game. If people spend long periods at your outpost, they will likely have developed engrained habits and an extreme familiarity with the space.