I am not a player nor a dungeon master myself actively but I host couple of one shot games and listen hundreds of sessions. I know how players want to draw their own way, and DM's are trying to build the world around their choices, in the middle my stories act as a template and guideline for Dungeon Masters. They are not neccessarily meant to be strictly followed. its goal is to lift heavy burden from Dungeon Masters for them to enjoy the game as much as players. I gave them choices before the game even begins. For the question what works? its highly depend on the DM and Players' playstyle and individual experience. I try to add not only battles, sword and shield but also emotional experiences too.