diff --git a/CMakeLists.txt b/CMakeLists.txt
index 250169b..2a1a384 100644
--- a/CMakeLists.txt
+++ b/CMakeLists.txt
@@ -302,6 +302,7 @@ set(WORKFLOW_SOURCES
 
 set(FRAME_WORKFLOW_SOURCES
     src/services/impl/workflow_frame_begin_step.cpp
+    src/services/impl/workflow_frame_bullet_physics_step.cpp
     src/services/impl/workflow_frame_physics_step.cpp
     src/services/impl/workflow_frame_scene_step.cpp
     src/services/impl/workflow_frame_render_step.cpp
diff --git a/config/schema/workflow_v1.schema.json b/config/schema/workflow_v1.schema.json
index 9fa2eb7..81d9536 100644
--- a/config/schema/workflow_v1.schema.json
+++ b/config/schema/workflow_v1.schema.json
@@ -2,44 +2,192 @@
   "$schema": "http://json-schema.org/draft-07/schema#",
   "title": "SDL3CPP Workflow v1",
   "type": "object",
-  "properties": {
-    "template": {
-      "type": "string"
+  "oneOf": [
+    {
+      "$ref": "#/definitions/legacyWorkflow"
     },
-    "steps": {
-      "type": "array",
-      "items": {
-        "type": "object",
-        "required": [
-          "id",
-          "plugin"
-        ],
-        "properties": {
-          "id": {
+    {
+      "$ref": "#/definitions/n8nWorkflow"
+    }
+  ],
+  "definitions": {
+    "legacyWorkflow": {
+      "type": "object",
+      "properties": {
+        "template": {
+          "type": "string"
+        },
+        "steps": {
+          "type": "array",
+          "items": {
+            "$ref": "#/definitions/legacyStep"
+          }
+        }
+      },
+      "required": [
+        "steps"
+      ],
+      "additionalProperties": false
+    },
+    "legacyStep": {
+      "type": "object",
+      "required": [
+        "id",
+        "plugin"
+      ],
+      "properties": {
+        "id": {
+          "type": "string"
+        },
+        "plugin": {
+          "type": "string"
+        },
+        "inputs": {
+          "type": "object",
+          "additionalProperties": {
             "type": "string"
-          },
-          "plugin": {
+          }
+        },
+        "outputs": {
+          "type": "object",
+          "additionalProperties": {
             "type": "string"
+          }
+        }
+      },
+      "additionalProperties": false
+    },
+    "n8nWorkflow": {
+      "type": "object",
+      "properties": {
+        "template": {
+          "type": "string"
+        },
+        "nodes": {
+          "type": "array",
+          "items": {
+            "$ref": "#/definitions/n8nNode"
+          }
+        },
+        "connections": {
+          "$ref": "#/definitions/n8nConnections"
+        }
+      },
+      "required": [
+        "nodes"
+      ],
+      "additionalProperties": false
+    },
+    "n8nNode": {
+      "type": "object",
+      "properties": {
+        "id": {
+          "type": "string"
+        },
+        "name": {
+          "type": "string"
+        },
+        "plugin": {
+          "type": "string"
+        },
+        "type": {
+          "type": "string"
+        },
+        "typeVersion": {
+          "type": "integer"
+        },
+        "position": {
+          "type": "array",
+          "items": {
+            "type": "number"
           },
-          "inputs": {
-            "type": "object",
-            "additionalProperties": {
-              "type": "string"
+          "minItems": 2,
+          "maxItems": 2
+        },
+        "parameters": {
+          "type": "object",
+          "additionalProperties": true
+        },
+        "inputs": {
+          "type": "object",
+          "additionalProperties": {
+            "type": "string"
+          }
+        },
+        "outputs": {
+          "type": "object",
+          "additionalProperties": {
+            "type": "string"
+          }
+        }
+      },
+      "allOf": [
+        {
+          "anyOf": [
+            {
+              "required": [
+                "id"
+              ]
+            },
+            {
+              "required": [
+                "name"
+              ]
             }
-          },
-          "outputs": {
-            "type": "object",
-            "additionalProperties": {
-              "type": "string"
+          ]
+        },
+        {
+          "anyOf": [
+            {
+              "required": [
+                "plugin"
+              ]
+            },
+            {
+              "required": [
+                "type"
+              ]
+            }
+          ]
+        }
+      ],
+      "additionalProperties": true
+    },
+    "n8nConnections": {
+      "type": "object",
+      "additionalProperties": {
+        "type": "object",
+        "properties": {
+          "main": {
+            "type": "array",
+            "items": {
+              "type": "array",
+              "items": {
+                "$ref": "#/definitions/n8nConnectionEntry"
+              }
             }
           }
         },
-        "additionalProperties": false
+        "additionalProperties": true
       }
+    },
+    "n8nConnectionEntry": {
+      "type": "object",
+      "properties": {
+        "node": {
+          "type": "string"
+        },
+        "type": {
+          "type": "string"
+        },
+        "index": {
+          "type": "integer"
+        }
+      },
+      "required": [
+        "node"
+      ],
+      "additionalProperties": true
     }
-  },
-  "required": [
-    "steps"
-  ],
-  "additionalProperties": false
+  }
 }
diff --git a/config/workflows/templates/boot_default.json b/config/workflows/templates/boot_default.json
index 982e550..90e1246 100644
--- a/config/workflows/templates/boot_default.json
+++ b/config/workflows/templates/boot_default.json
@@ -1,9 +1,10 @@
 {
   "template": "boot.default",
-  "steps": [
+  "nodes": [
     {
       "id": "load_config",
       "plugin": "config.load",
+      "position": [0, 0],
       "inputs": {
         "path": "config.path"
       },
@@ -14,6 +15,7 @@
     {
       "id": "validate_version",
       "plugin": "config.version.validate",
+      "position": [260, 0],
       "inputs": {
         "document": "config.document",
         "path": "config.path"
@@ -25,6 +27,7 @@
     {
       "id": "migrate_version",
       "plugin": "config.migrate",
+      "position": [520, 0],
       "inputs": {
         "document": "config.document",
         "path": "config.path",
@@ -38,6 +41,7 @@
     {
       "id": "validate_schema",
       "plugin": "config.schema.validate",
+      "position": [780, 0],
       "inputs": {
         "document": "config.document",
         "path": "config.path"
@@ -46,6 +50,7 @@
     {
       "id": "build_runtime_config",
       "plugin": "runtime.config.build",
+      "position": [1040, 0],
       "inputs": {
         "document": "config.document",
         "path": "config.path"
@@ -54,5 +59,35 @@
         "runtime": "config.runtime"
       }
     }
-  ]
+  ],
+  "connections": {
+    "load_config": {
+      "main": [
+        [
+          { "node": "validate_version", "type": "main", "index": 0 }
+        ]
+      ]
+    },
+    "validate_version": {
+      "main": [
+        [
+          { "node": "migrate_version", "type": "main", "index": 0 }
+        ]
+      ]
+    },
+    "migrate_version": {
+      "main": [
+        [
+          { "node": "validate_schema", "type": "main", "index": 0 }
+        ]
+      ]
+    },
+    "validate_schema": {
+      "main": [
+        [
+          { "node": "build_runtime_config", "type": "main", "index": 0 }
+        ]
+      ]
+    }
+  }
 }
diff --git a/config/workflows/templates/frame_default.json b/config/workflows/templates/frame_default.json
index 354a377..3126807 100644
--- a/config/workflows/templates/frame_default.json
+++ b/config/workflows/templates/frame_default.json
@@ -1,9 +1,10 @@
 {
   "template": "frame.default",
-  "steps": [
+  "nodes": [
     {
       "id": "begin_frame",
       "plugin": "frame.begin",
+      "position": [0, 0],
       "inputs": {
         "delta": "frame.delta",
         "elapsed": "frame.elapsed"
@@ -12,6 +13,7 @@
     {
       "id": "step_physics",
       "plugin": "frame.physics",
+      "position": [260, 0],
       "inputs": {
         "delta": "frame.delta"
       }
@@ -19,6 +21,7 @@
     {
       "id": "update_scene",
       "plugin": "frame.scene",
+      "position": [520, 0],
       "inputs": {
         "delta": "frame.delta"
       }
@@ -26,17 +29,51 @@
     {
       "id": "render_frame",
       "plugin": "frame.render",
+      "position": [780, 0],
       "inputs": {
         "elapsed": "frame.elapsed"
       }
     },
     {
       "id": "update_audio",
-      "plugin": "frame.audio"
+      "plugin": "frame.audio",
+      "position": [1040, -120]
     },
     {
       "id": "dispatch_gui",
-      "plugin": "frame.gui"
+      "plugin": "frame.gui",
+      "position": [1040, 120]
     }
-  ]
+  ],
+  "connections": {
+    "begin_frame": {
+      "main": [
+        [
+          { "node": "step_physics", "type": "main", "index": 0 }
+        ]
+      ]
+    },
+    "step_physics": {
+      "main": [
+        [
+          { "node": "update_scene", "type": "main", "index": 0 }
+        ]
+      ]
+    },
+    "update_scene": {
+      "main": [
+        [
+          { "node": "render_frame", "type": "main", "index": 0 }
+        ]
+      ]
+    },
+    "render_frame": {
+      "main": [
+        [
+          { "node": "update_audio", "type": "main", "index": 0 },
+          { "node": "dispatch_gui", "type": "main", "index": 0 }
+        ]
+      ]
+    }
+  }
 }
diff --git a/config/workflows/templates/n8n_skeleton.json b/config/workflows/templates/n8n_skeleton.json
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..21f8296
--- /dev/null
+++ b/config/workflows/templates/n8n_skeleton.json
@@ -0,0 +1,34 @@
+{
+  "template": "n8n.skeleton",
+  "nodes": [
+    {
+      "id": "load_config",
+      "plugin": "config.load",
+      "position": [0, 0],
+      "inputs": {
+        "path": "config.path"
+      },
+      "outputs": {
+        "document": "config.document"
+      }
+    },
+    {
+      "id": "validate_schema",
+      "plugin": "config.schema.validate",
+      "position": [260, 0],
+      "inputs": {
+        "document": "config.document",
+        "path": "config.path"
+      }
+    }
+  ],
+  "connections": {
+    "load_config": {
+      "main": [
+        [
+          { "node": "validate_schema", "type": "main", "index": 0 }
+        ]
+      ]
+    }
+  }
+}
diff --git a/docs/N8N_WORKFLOWS.md b/docs/N8N_WORKFLOWS.md
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..7706dcc
--- /dev/null
+++ b/docs/N8N_WORKFLOWS.md
@@ -0,0 +1,31 @@
+N8N-Style Workflows
+
+Overview
+- Workflows can be declared with `nodes` and `connections`, modeled after n8n.
+- Each node maps to a C++ workflow plugin (via `plugin` or `type`).
+- Connections define execution order. When connections are omitted, the node array order is used.
+
+Node Shape
+- `id` or `name`: required. Used to identify the node in `connections`.
+- `plugin` or `type`: required. The plugin string must match a registered step.
+- `inputs` / `outputs`: optional string maps for workflow context keys.
+- `position`: optional `[x, y]` array for layout parity with n8n.
+
+Connections Shape
+```json
+{
+  "connections": {
+    "load_config": {
+      "main": [
+        [
+          { "node": "validate_schema", "type": "main", "index": 0 }
+        ]
+      ]
+    }
+  }
+}
+```
+
+Templates
+- `config/workflows/templates/boot_default.json` and `config/workflows/templates/frame_default.json` are n8n-style now.
+- `config/workflows/templates/n8n_skeleton.json` is a minimal starting point.
diff --git a/packages/engine_tester/package.json b/packages/engine_tester/package.json
index 8bedb5f..82976bf 100644
--- a/packages/engine_tester/package.json
+++ b/packages/engine_tester/package.json
@@ -4,8 +4,7 @@
   "description": "Validation tour package with teleport checkpoints, captures, and diagnostics.",
   "defaultWorkflow": "workflows/validation_tour.json",
   "workflows": [
-    "workflows/validation_tour.json",
-    "workflows/stubs/validation_probe_placeholder.json"
+    "workflows/validation_tour.json"
   ],
   "assets": [
     "assets/validation_checks.json"
diff --git a/packages/engine_tester/workflows/stubs/validation_probe_placeholder.json b/packages/engine_tester/workflows/stubs/validation_probe_placeholder.json
deleted file mode 100644
index b2abd82..0000000
--- a/packages/engine_tester/workflows/stubs/validation_probe_placeholder.json
+++ /dev/null
@@ -1,9 +0,0 @@
-{
-  "id": "validation.tour.checkpoint",
-  "summary": "Validation probe step stub used to reserve workflow hooks before full diagnostics land.",
-  "stage": "planned",
-  "notes": [
-    "Should sample engine framebuffers, analyze capture stats, and report mismatches.",
-    "Currently registered as part of packages so workflows referencing checkpoints keep parsing."
-  ]
-}
diff --git a/packages/engine_tester/workflows/validation_tour.json b/packages/engine_tester/workflows/validation_tour.json
index f7570ef..779aefb 100644
--- a/packages/engine_tester/workflows/validation_tour.json
+++ b/packages/engine_tester/workflows/validation_tour.json
@@ -1,9 +1,10 @@
 {
   "template": "boot.default",
-  "steps": [
+  "nodes": [
     {
       "id": "load_config",
       "plugin": "config.load",
+      "position": [0, 0],
       "inputs": {
         "path": "config.path"
       },
@@ -14,6 +15,7 @@
     {
       "id": "validate_schema",
       "plugin": "config.schema.validate",
+      "position": [260, 0],
       "inputs": {
         "document": "config.document",
         "path": "config.path"
@@ -22,6 +24,7 @@
     {
       "id": "build_runtime",
       "plugin": "runtime.config.build",
+      "position": [520, 0],
       "inputs": {
         "document": "config.document",
         "path": "config.path"
@@ -33,9 +36,33 @@
     {
       "id": "validation_probe",
       "plugin": "validation.tour.checkpoint",
+      "position": [780, 0],
       "inputs": {
         "checkpoint": "packages.engine_tester"
       }
     }
-  ]
+  ],
+  "connections": {
+    "load_config": {
+      "main": [
+        [
+          { "node": "validate_schema", "type": "main", "index": 0 }
+        ]
+      ]
+    },
+    "validate_schema": {
+      "main": [
+        [
+          { "node": "build_runtime", "type": "main", "index": 0 }
+        ]
+      ]
+    },
+    "build_runtime": {
+      "main": [
+        [
+          { "node": "validation_probe", "type": "main", "index": 0 }
+        ]
+      ]
+    }
+  }
 }
diff --git a/packages/gui/package.json b/packages/gui/package.json
index 0f3c993..79d55de 100644
--- a/packages/gui/package.json
+++ b/packages/gui/package.json
@@ -4,8 +4,7 @@
   "description": "Workflow package describing the GUI demo, focused on UI updates + frame capture validation.",
   "defaultWorkflow": "workflows/gui_frame.json",
   "workflows": [
-    "workflows/gui_frame.json",
-    "workflows/stubs/gui_layout_placeholder.json"
+    "workflows/gui_frame.json"
   ],
   "assets": [
     "assets/gui_widgets.json",
diff --git a/packages/gui/workflows/gui_frame.json b/packages/gui/workflows/gui_frame.json
index 14ab82b..37f46fc 100644
--- a/packages/gui/workflows/gui_frame.json
+++ b/packages/gui/workflows/gui_frame.json
@@ -1,9 +1,10 @@
 {
   "template": "frame.default",
-  "steps": [
+  "nodes": [
     {
       "id": "gui_begin",
       "plugin": "frame.begin",
+      "position": [0, 0],
       "inputs": {
         "delta": "frame.delta",
         "elapsed": "frame.elapsed"
@@ -12,6 +13,7 @@
     {
       "id": "gui_layout",
       "plugin": "frame.gui",
+      "position": [260, 0],
       "inputs": {
         "elapsed": "frame.elapsed"
       }
@@ -19,6 +21,7 @@
     {
       "id": "render_ui",
       "plugin": "frame.render",
+      "position": [520, 0],
       "inputs": {
         "elapsed": "frame.elapsed"
       }
@@ -26,9 +29,33 @@
     {
       "id": "capture_ui",
       "plugin": "validation.tour.checkpoint",
+      "position": [780, 0],
       "inputs": {
         "checkpoint": "packages.gui_demo"
       }
     }
-  ]
+  ],
+  "connections": {
+    "gui_begin": {
+      "main": [
+        [
+          { "node": "gui_layout", "type": "main", "index": 0 }
+        ]
+      ]
+    },
+    "gui_layout": {
+      "main": [
+        [
+          { "node": "render_ui", "type": "main", "index": 0 }
+        ]
+      ]
+    },
+    "render_ui": {
+      "main": [
+        [
+          { "node": "capture_ui", "type": "main", "index": 0 }
+        ]
+      ]
+    }
+  }
 }
diff --git a/packages/gui/workflows/stubs/gui_layout_placeholder.json b/packages/gui/workflows/stubs/gui_layout_placeholder.json
deleted file mode 100644
index 3eb9590..0000000
--- a/packages/gui/workflows/stubs/gui_layout_placeholder.json
+++ /dev/null
@@ -1,9 +0,0 @@
-{
-  "id": "frame.gui",
-  "summary": "Placeholder for GUI layout + input processing steps that are still being refactored.",
-  "stage": "planned",
-  "notes": [
-    "Should resolve UI command bundles and update ImGui state.",
-    "Currently registered so workflows can declare GUI dependencies without crashing."
-  ]
-}
diff --git a/packages/quake3/package.json b/packages/quake3/package.json
index faf931c..29dd3f2 100644
--- a/packages/quake3/package.json
+++ b/packages/quake3/package.json
@@ -4,8 +4,7 @@
   "description": "Quake3-style example package bundling physics, scene, and map metadata.",
   "defaultWorkflow": "workflows/quake3_frame.json",
   "workflows": [
-    "workflows/quake3_frame.json",
-    "workflows/stubs/quake3_physics_placeholder.json"
+    "workflows/quake3_frame.json"
   ],
   "assets": [
     "assets/quake3_materials.json"
diff --git a/packages/quake3/workflows/quake3_frame.json b/packages/quake3/workflows/quake3_frame.json
index 407ad3b..2740d7e 100644
--- a/packages/quake3/workflows/quake3_frame.json
+++ b/packages/quake3/workflows/quake3_frame.json
@@ -1,9 +1,10 @@
 {
   "template": "frame.default",
-  "steps": [
+  "nodes": [
     {
       "id": "quake_begin",
       "plugin": "frame.begin",
+      "position": [0, 0],
       "inputs": {
         "delta": "frame.delta"
       }
@@ -11,6 +12,7 @@
     {
       "id": "quake_physics",
       "plugin": "frame.bullet_physics",
+      "position": [260, 0],
       "inputs": {
         "delta": "frame.delta"
       }
@@ -18,6 +20,7 @@
     {
       "id": "quake_scene",
       "plugin": "frame.scene",
+      "position": [520, 0],
       "inputs": {
         "delta": "frame.delta"
       }
@@ -25,6 +28,7 @@
     {
       "id": "quake_render",
       "plugin": "frame.render",
+      "position": [780, 0],
       "inputs": {
         "elapsed": "frame.elapsed"
       }
@@ -32,9 +36,40 @@
     {
       "id": "quake_validation",
       "plugin": "validation.tour.checkpoint",
+      "position": [1040, 0],
       "inputs": {
         "checkpoint": "packages.quake3_map"
       }
     }
-  ]
+  ],
+  "connections": {
+    "quake_begin": {
+      "main": [
+        [
+          { "node": "quake_physics", "type": "main", "index": 0 }
+        ]
+      ]
+    },
+    "quake_physics": {
+      "main": [
+        [
+          { "node": "quake_scene", "type": "main", "index": 0 }
+        ]
+      ]
+    },
+    "quake_scene": {
+      "main": [
+        [
+          { "node": "quake_render", "type": "main", "index": 0 }
+        ]
+      ]
+    },
+    "quake_render": {
+      "main": [
+        [
+          { "node": "quake_validation", "type": "main", "index": 0 }
+        ]
+      ]
+    }
+  }
 }
diff --git a/packages/quake3/workflows/stubs/quake3_physics_placeholder.json b/packages/quake3/workflows/stubs/quake3_physics_placeholder.json
deleted file mode 100644
index 4c5d48c..0000000
--- a/packages/quake3/workflows/stubs/quake3_physics_placeholder.json
+++ /dev/null
@@ -1,9 +0,0 @@
-{
-  "id": "frame.bullet_physics",
-  "summary": "Quake3 physics stub to ensure workflows can declare bullet-dependent steps.",
-  "stage": "planned",
-  "notes": [
-    "Should load BSP geometry, apply gravity, and resolve collisions.",
-    "Widgets will be active once the physics service is refactored accordingly."
-  ]
-}
diff --git a/packages/seed/package.json b/packages/seed/package.json
index 67dded1..1f217ab 100644
--- a/packages/seed/package.json
+++ b/packages/seed/package.json
@@ -4,8 +4,7 @@
   "description": "Template package describing a boot-to-frame workflow, assets, and validation presets for the demo cube.",
   "defaultWorkflow": "workflows/demo_gameplay.json",
   "workflows": [
-    "workflows/demo_gameplay.json",
-    "workflows/stubs/bullet_physics_placeholder.json"
+    "workflows/demo_gameplay.json"
   ],
   "assets": [
     "assets/cube_materials.json"
diff --git a/packages/seed/workflows/demo_gameplay.json b/packages/seed/workflows/demo_gameplay.json
index bd11c98..e8afd9c 100644
--- a/packages/seed/workflows/demo_gameplay.json
+++ b/packages/seed/workflows/demo_gameplay.json
@@ -1,9 +1,10 @@
 {
   "template": "frame.default",
-  "steps": [
+  "nodes": [
     {
       "id": "begin_frame",
       "plugin": "frame.begin",
+      "position": [0, 0],
       "inputs": {
         "delta": "frame.delta",
         "elapsed": "frame.elapsed"
@@ -12,6 +13,7 @@
     {
       "id": "camera_control",
       "plugin": "frame.camera",
+      "position": [260, 0],
       "inputs": {
         "delta": "frame.delta"
       }
@@ -19,6 +21,7 @@
     {
       "id": "bullet_physics",
       "plugin": "frame.bullet_physics",
+      "position": [520, 0],
       "inputs": {
         "delta": "frame.delta"
       }
@@ -26,6 +29,7 @@
     {
       "id": "scene",
       "plugin": "frame.scene",
+      "position": [780, 0],
       "inputs": {
         "delta": "frame.delta"
       }
@@ -33,6 +37,7 @@
     {
       "id": "render",
       "plugin": "frame.render",
+      "position": [1040, 0],
       "inputs": {
         "elapsed": "frame.elapsed"
       }
@@ -40,9 +45,47 @@
     {
       "id": "validate_capture",
       "plugin": "validation.tour.checkpoint",
+      "position": [1300, 0],
       "inputs": {
         "checkpoint": "gameplay.startup_camera"
       }
     }
-  ]
+  ],
+  "connections": {
+    "begin_frame": {
+      "main": [
+        [
+          { "node": "camera_control", "type": "main", "index": 0 }
+        ]
+      ]
+    },
+    "camera_control": {
+      "main": [
+        [
+          { "node": "bullet_physics", "type": "main", "index": 0 }
+        ]
+      ]
+    },
+    "bullet_physics": {
+      "main": [
+        [
+          { "node": "scene", "type": "main", "index": 0 }
+        ]
+      ]
+    },
+    "scene": {
+      "main": [
+        [
+          { "node": "render", "type": "main", "index": 0 }
+        ]
+      ]
+    },
+    "render": {
+      "main": [
+        [
+          { "node": "validate_capture", "type": "main", "index": 0 }
+        ]
+      ]
+    }
+  }
 }
diff --git a/packages/seed/workflows/stubs/bullet_physics_placeholder.json b/packages/seed/workflows/stubs/bullet_physics_placeholder.json
deleted file mode 100644
index deaa7da..0000000
--- a/packages/seed/workflows/stubs/bullet_physics_placeholder.json
+++ /dev/null
@@ -1,10 +0,0 @@
-{
-  "id": "frame.bullet_physics",
-  "summary": "Stub for bullet physics integration; wiring exists but needs a concrete implementation before it becomes active.",
-  "stage": "planned",
-  "notes": [
-    "Dependencies: physics service + rigid body registry",
-    "Placeholder step ensures the workflow registry can parse missing plugins without crashing.",
-    "Once implemented, this step should apply gravity + constraints before the scene update step."
-  ]
-}
diff --git a/packages/soundboard/package.json b/packages/soundboard/package.json
index a31e0be..38017ad 100644
--- a/packages/soundboard/package.json
+++ b/packages/soundboard/package.json
@@ -4,11 +4,7 @@
   "description": "Workflow template for the soundboard experience (audio cues + GUI controls).",
   "defaultWorkflow": "workflows/soundboard_flow.json",
   "workflows": [
-    "workflows/soundboard_flow.json",
-    "workflows/stubs/soundboard_catalog_scan_stub.json",
-    "workflows/stubs/soundboard_gui_stub.json",
-    "workflows/stubs/soundboard_audio_stub.json",
-    "workflows/stubs/audio_visualizer_placeholder.json"
+    "workflows/soundboard_flow.json"
   ],
   "assets": [
     "assets/sound/sound_samples.json",
diff --git a/packages/soundboard/workflows/soundboard_flow.json b/packages/soundboard/workflows/soundboard_flow.json
index 8703e67..38d6912 100644
--- a/packages/soundboard/workflows/soundboard_flow.json
+++ b/packages/soundboard/workflows/soundboard_flow.json
@@ -1,9 +1,10 @@
 {
   "template": "frame.default",
-  "steps": [
+  "nodes": [
     {
       "id": "begin_frame",
       "plugin": "frame.begin",
+      "position": [0, 0],
       "inputs": {
         "delta": "frame.delta",
         "elapsed": "frame.elapsed"
@@ -12,6 +13,7 @@
     {
       "id": "catalog_scan",
       "plugin": "soundboard.catalog.scan",
+      "position": [260, -120],
       "outputs": {
         "catalog": "soundboard.catalog"
       }
@@ -19,6 +21,7 @@
     {
       "id": "gui_render",
       "plugin": "soundboard.gui",
+      "position": [520, -120],
       "inputs": {
         "catalog": "soundboard.catalog",
         "layout": "soundboard.layout"
@@ -30,6 +33,7 @@
     {
       "id": "audio_dispatch",
       "plugin": "soundboard.audio",
+      "position": [780, -120],
       "inputs": {
         "catalog": "soundboard.catalog",
         "selection": "soundboard.selection"
@@ -41,6 +45,7 @@
     {
       "id": "render_frame",
       "plugin": "frame.render",
+      "position": [520, 120],
       "inputs": {
         "elapsed": "frame.elapsed"
       }
@@ -48,9 +53,48 @@
     {
       "id": "validation_capture",
       "plugin": "validation.tour.checkpoint",
+      "position": [780, 120],
       "inputs": {
         "checkpoint": "packages.soundboard"
       }
     }
-  ]
+  ],
+  "connections": {
+    "begin_frame": {
+      "main": [
+        [
+          { "node": "catalog_scan", "type": "main", "index": 0 },
+          { "node": "render_frame", "type": "main", "index": 0 }
+        ]
+      ]
+    },
+    "catalog_scan": {
+      "main": [
+        [
+          { "node": "gui_render", "type": "main", "index": 0 }
+        ]
+      ]
+    },
+    "gui_render": {
+      "main": [
+        [
+          { "node": "audio_dispatch", "type": "main", "index": 0 }
+        ]
+      ]
+    },
+    "audio_dispatch": {
+      "main": [
+        [
+          { "node": "validation_capture", "type": "main", "index": 0 }
+        ]
+      ]
+    },
+    "render_frame": {
+      "main": [
+        [
+          { "node": "validation_capture", "type": "main", "index": 0 }
+        ]
+      ]
+    }
+  }
 }
diff --git a/packages/soundboard/workflows/stubs/audio_visualizer_placeholder.json b/packages/soundboard/workflows/stubs/audio_visualizer_placeholder.json
deleted file mode 100644
index 65e33a7..0000000
--- a/packages/soundboard/workflows/stubs/audio_visualizer_placeholder.json
+++ /dev/null
@@ -1,9 +0,0 @@
-{
-  "id": "frame.audio",
-  "summary": "Audio dispatch stub for the soundboard; actual cue scheduling + mixing service is pending.",
-  "stage": "planned",
-  "notes": [
-    "Should queue audio commands and report current sample index to UI.",
-    "Registered so workflows can mention the audio step without requiring implementation."
-  ]
-}
diff --git a/packages/soundboard/workflows/stubs/soundboard_audio_stub.json b/packages/soundboard/workflows/stubs/soundboard_audio_stub.json
deleted file mode 100644
index 01433f5..0000000
--- a/packages/soundboard/workflows/stubs/soundboard_audio_stub.json
+++ /dev/null
@@ -1,28 +0,0 @@
-{
-  "id": "soundboard.audio",
-  "summary": "Plays clips requested by the GUI and reports playback status.",
-  "stage": "planned",
-  "inputs": [
-    {
-      "name": "catalog",
-      "type": "soundboard.catalog",
-      "description": "Catalog data to resolve clip paths."
-    },
-    {
-      "name": "selection",
-      "type": "soundboard.selection",
-      "description": "Selected clip identifier emitted by the GUI step."
-    }
-  ],
-  "outputs": [
-    {
-      "name": "status",
-      "type": "soundboard.status",
-      "description": "Playback status message (playing/failed/missing)."
-    }
-  ],
-  "notes": [
-    "Should interact with the runtime audio command pipeline (`audio_play_sound` equivalent) to queue clips.",
-    "Status outputs let the GUI display feedback (success, failure, no clip available)."
-  ]
-}
diff --git a/packages/soundboard/workflows/stubs/soundboard_catalog_scan_stub.json b/packages/soundboard/workflows/stubs/soundboard_catalog_scan_stub.json
deleted file mode 100644
index a7b4f08..0000000
--- a/packages/soundboard/workflows/stubs/soundboard_catalog_scan_stub.json
+++ /dev/null
@@ -1,23 +0,0 @@
-{
-  "id": "soundboard.catalog.scan",
-  "summary": "Scans `assets/audio_catalog.json` plus audio folders to publish clip metadata.",
-  "stage": "planned",
-  "inputs": [
-    {
-      "name": "catalog_descriptor",
-      "type": "json_path",
-      "description": "Path to `assets/audio_catalog.json` describing categories + relative folders."
-    }
-  ],
-  "outputs": [
-    {
-      "name": "catalog",
-      "type": "soundboard.catalog",
-      "description": "Structured catalog with categories, clip names, absolute/audio-relative paths."
-    }
-  ],
-  "notes": [
-    "This step should read the JSON descriptor, scan the referenced folders (`assets/audio/sfx`, `assets/audio/tts`), and sort clip names alphabetically per category.",
-    "The output catalog should include the category ID, display name, and clip list (filename + label + path)."
-  ]
-}
diff --git a/packages/soundboard/workflows/stubs/soundboard_gui_stub.json b/packages/soundboard/workflows/stubs/soundboard_gui_stub.json
deleted file mode 100644
index d74350b..0000000
--- a/packages/soundboard/workflows/stubs/soundboard_gui_stub.json
+++ /dev/null
@@ -1,28 +0,0 @@
-{
-  "id": "soundboard.gui",
-  "summary": "Renders buttons for every clip in the catalog and emits selection events.",
-  "stage": "planned",
-  "inputs": [
-    {
-      "name": "catalog",
-      "type": "soundboard.catalog",
-      "description": "Catalog produced by `soundboard.catalog.scan` (categories + clip names/paths)."
-    },
-    {
-      "name": "layout",
-      "type": "json_path",
-      "description": "GUI layout definition from `assets/soundboard_gui.json`."
-    }
-  ],
-  "outputs": [
-    {
-      "name": "selection",
-      "type": "soundboard.selection",
-      "description": "Clip selection event including category, clip id, and display label."
-    }
-  ],
-  "notes": [
-    "Should render a panel with column tabs per category, draw buttons for each clip, and feed button presses into the audio dispatcher.",
-    "Should also publish status messages (e.g., playback started/failed) for preview."
-  ]
-}
diff --git a/src/services/impl/frame_workflow_step_registrar.cpp b/src/services/impl/frame_workflow_step_registrar.cpp
index cc9f389..3c6b8ec 100644
--- a/src/services/impl/frame_workflow_step_registrar.cpp
+++ b/src/services/impl/frame_workflow_step_registrar.cpp
@@ -2,6 +2,7 @@
 
 #include "workflow_frame_audio_step.hpp"
 #include "workflow_frame_begin_step.hpp"
+#include "workflow_frame_bullet_physics_step.hpp"
 #include "workflow_frame_gui_step.hpp"
 #include "workflow_frame_physics_step.hpp"
 #include "workflow_frame_render_step.hpp"
@@ -43,6 +44,9 @@ void FrameWorkflowStepRegistrar::RegisterUsedSteps(
     if (plugins.contains("frame.physics")) {
         registry->RegisterStep(std::make_shared<WorkflowFramePhysicsStep>(physicsService_, logger_));
     }
+    if (plugins.contains("frame.bullet_physics")) {
+        registry->RegisterStep(std::make_shared<WorkflowFrameBulletPhysicsStep>(physicsService_, logger_));
+    }
     if (plugins.contains("frame.scene")) {
         registry->RegisterStep(std::make_shared<WorkflowFrameSceneStep>(sceneService_, logger_));
     }
diff --git a/src/services/impl/workflow_definition_parser.cpp b/src/services/impl/workflow_definition_parser.cpp
index 2d8b399..3e1928f 100644
--- a/src/services/impl/workflow_definition_parser.cpp
+++ b/src/services/impl/workflow_definition_parser.cpp
@@ -4,6 +4,7 @@
 #include <rapidjson/document.h>
 
 #include <stdexcept>
+#include <set>
 #include <string>
 #include <unordered_map>
 #include <utility>
@@ -36,34 +37,197 @@ std::unordered_map<std::string, std::string> ReadStringMap(const rapidjson::Valu
     }
     return result;
 }
+
+std::string ReadNodeId(const rapidjson::Value& node, size_t index) {
+    if (node.HasMember("id") && node["id"].IsString()) {
+        return node["id"].GetString();
+    }
+    if (node.HasMember("name") && node["name"].IsString()) {
+        return node["name"].GetString();
+    }
+    throw std::runtime_error("Workflow node[" + std::to_string(index) + "] requires string id or name");
+}
+
+std::string ReadNodePlugin(const rapidjson::Value& node, const std::string& nodeId) {
+    if (node.HasMember("plugin") && node["plugin"].IsString()) {
+        return node["plugin"].GetString();
+    }
+    if (node.HasMember("type") && node["type"].IsString()) {
+        return node["type"].GetString();
+    }
+    throw std::runtime_error("Workflow node '" + nodeId + "' requires string plugin or type");
+}
+
+std::vector<std::pair<std::string, std::string>> ReadConnections(const rapidjson::Value& document) {
+    if (!document.HasMember("connections")) {
+        return {};
+    }
+    const auto& connectionsValue = document["connections"];
+    if (!connectionsValue.IsObject()) {
+        throw std::runtime_error("Workflow member 'connections' must be an object");
+    }
+    std::vector<std::pair<std::string, std::string>> edges;
+    for (auto it = connectionsValue.MemberBegin(); it != connectionsValue.MemberEnd(); ++it) {
+        const std::string fromNode = it->name.GetString();
+        if (!it->value.IsObject()) {
+            throw std::runtime_error("Workflow connections for '" + fromNode + "' must be an object");
+        }
+        if (!it->value.HasMember("main")) {
+            continue;
+        }
+        const auto& mainValue = it->value["main"];
+        if (!mainValue.IsArray()) {
+            throw std::runtime_error("Workflow connections.main for '" + fromNode + "' must be an array");
+        }
+        for (const auto& branch : mainValue.GetArray()) {
+            if (!branch.IsArray()) {
+                throw std::runtime_error("Workflow connections.main entries for '" + fromNode + "' must be arrays");
+            }
+            for (const auto& connection : branch.GetArray()) {
+                if (!connection.IsObject() || !connection.HasMember("node") || !connection["node"].IsString()) {
+                    throw std::runtime_error("Workflow connection entries for '" + fromNode + "' require a node string");
+                }
+                edges.emplace_back(fromNode, connection["node"].GetString());
+            }
+        }
+    }
+    return edges;
+}
+
+std::vector<std::string> SortNodesByConnections(
+    const std::vector<std::string>& nodeOrder,
+    const std::vector<std::pair<std::string, std::string>>& edges) {
+    std::unordered_map<std::string, size_t> indexById;
+    std::unordered_map<std::string, size_t> indegree;
+    std::unordered_map<std::string, std::vector<std::string>> adjacency;
+    indexById.reserve(nodeOrder.size());
+    indegree.reserve(nodeOrder.size());
+    adjacency.reserve(nodeOrder.size());
+    for (size_t i = 0; i < nodeOrder.size(); ++i) {
+        indexById.emplace(nodeOrder[i], i);
+        indegree.emplace(nodeOrder[i], 0);
+        adjacency.emplace(nodeOrder[i], std::vector<std::string>{});
+    }
+
+    for (const auto& edge : edges) {
+        const auto fromIt = indexById.find(edge.first);
+        if (fromIt == indexById.end()) {
+            throw std::runtime_error("Workflow connection references unknown node '" + edge.first + "'");
+        }
+        const auto toIt = indexById.find(edge.second);
+        if (toIt == indexById.end()) {
+            throw std::runtime_error("Workflow connection references unknown node '" + edge.second + "'");
+        }
+        adjacency[edge.first].push_back(edge.second);
+        ++indegree[edge.second];
+    }
+
+    std::set<std::pair<size_t, std::string>> ready;
+    for (const auto& nodeId : nodeOrder) {
+        if (indegree[nodeId] == 0u) {
+            ready.emplace(indexById[nodeId], nodeId);
+        }
+    }
+
+    std::vector<std::string> ordered;
+    ordered.reserve(nodeOrder.size());
+    while (!ready.empty()) {
+        auto it = ready.begin();
+        const std::string nodeId = it->second;
+        ready.erase(it);
+        ordered.push_back(nodeId);
+        for (const auto& next : adjacency[nodeId]) {
+            auto indegreeIt = indegree.find(next);
+            if (indegreeIt == indegree.end()) {
+                continue;
+            }
+            if (--indegreeIt->second == 0u) {
+                ready.emplace(indexById[next], next);
+            }
+        }
+    }
+
+    if (ordered.size() != nodeOrder.size()) {
+        throw std::runtime_error("Workflow connections contain a cycle");
+    }
+
+    return ordered;
+}
 }  // namespace
 
 WorkflowDefinition WorkflowDefinitionParser::ParseFile(const std::filesystem::path& path) const {
     json_config::JsonConfigDocumentParser parser;
     rapidjson::Document document = parser.Parse(path, "workflow file");
 
-    if (!document.HasMember("steps") || !document["steps"].IsArray()) {
-        throw std::runtime_error("Workflow must contain a 'steps' array");
+    const bool hasSteps = document.HasMember("steps");
+    const bool hasNodes = document.HasMember("nodes");
+    if (hasSteps && hasNodes) {
+        throw std::runtime_error("Workflow cannot define both 'steps' and 'nodes'");
+    }
+    if (!hasSteps && !hasNodes) {
+        throw std::runtime_error("Workflow must contain a 'steps' array or 'nodes' array");
     }
 
     WorkflowDefinition workflow;
     if (document.HasMember("template")) {
-        if (!document["template"].IsString()) {
-            throw std::runtime_error("Workflow member 'template' must be a string");
-        }
-        workflow.templateName = document["template"].GetString();
+        workflow.templateName = ReadRequiredString(document, "template");
     }
 
-    for (const auto& entry : document["steps"].GetArray()) {
+    if (hasSteps) {
+        if (!document["steps"].IsArray()) {
+            throw std::runtime_error("Workflow must contain a 'steps' array");
+        }
+        for (const auto& entry : document["steps"].GetArray()) {
+            if (!entry.IsObject()) {
+                throw std::runtime_error("Workflow steps must be objects");
+            }
+            WorkflowStepDefinition step;
+            step.id = ReadRequiredString(entry, "id");
+            step.plugin = ReadRequiredString(entry, "plugin");
+            step.inputs = ReadStringMap(entry, "inputs");
+            step.outputs = ReadStringMap(entry, "outputs");
+            workflow.steps.push_back(std::move(step));
+        }
+        return workflow;
+    }
+
+    if (!document["nodes"].IsArray()) {
+        throw std::runtime_error("Workflow must contain a 'nodes' array");
+    }
+
+    std::vector<WorkflowStepDefinition> nodes;
+    std::vector<std::string> nodeOrder;
+    for (rapidjson::SizeType i = 0; i < document["nodes"].Size(); ++i) {
+        const auto& entry = document["nodes"][i];
         if (!entry.IsObject()) {
-            throw std::runtime_error("Workflow steps must be objects");
+            throw std::runtime_error("Workflow nodes must be objects");
         }
         WorkflowStepDefinition step;
-        step.id = ReadRequiredString(entry, "id");
-        step.plugin = ReadRequiredString(entry, "plugin");
+        step.id = ReadNodeId(entry, i);
+        step.plugin = ReadNodePlugin(entry, step.id);
         step.inputs = ReadStringMap(entry, "inputs");
         step.outputs = ReadStringMap(entry, "outputs");
-        workflow.steps.push_back(std::move(step));
+        nodes.push_back(step);
+        nodeOrder.push_back(step.id);
+    }
+
+    const auto edges = ReadConnections(document);
+    std::vector<std::string> orderedIds = edges.empty()
+        ? nodeOrder
+        : SortNodesByConnections(nodeOrder, edges);
+
+    std::unordered_map<std::string, WorkflowStepDefinition> nodeMap;
+    nodeMap.reserve(nodes.size());
+    for (const auto& node : nodes) {
+        nodeMap.emplace(node.id, node);
+    }
+    workflow.steps.reserve(nodes.size());
+    for (const auto& nodeId : orderedIds) {
+        auto it = nodeMap.find(nodeId);
+        if (it == nodeMap.end()) {
+            throw std::runtime_error("Workflow nodes missing entry for '" + nodeId + "'");
+        }
+        workflow.steps.push_back(it->second);
     }
 
     return workflow;
diff --git a/src/services/impl/workflow_frame_bullet_physics_step.cpp b/src/services/impl/workflow_frame_bullet_physics_step.cpp
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..833f9de
--- /dev/null
+++ b/src/services/impl/workflow_frame_bullet_physics_step.cpp
@@ -0,0 +1,35 @@
+#include "workflow_frame_bullet_physics_step.hpp"
+#include "workflow_step_io_resolver.hpp"
+
+#include <stdexcept>
+
+namespace sdl3cpp::services::impl {
+
+WorkflowFrameBulletPhysicsStep::WorkflowFrameBulletPhysicsStep(std::shared_ptr<IPhysicsService> physicsService,
+                                                               std::shared_ptr<ILogger> logger)
+    : physicsService_(std::move(physicsService)),
+      logger_(std::move(logger)) {}
+
+std::string WorkflowFrameBulletPhysicsStep::GetPluginId() const {
+    return "frame.bullet_physics";
+}
+
+void WorkflowFrameBulletPhysicsStep::Execute(const WorkflowStepDefinition& step, WorkflowContext& context) {
+    if (!physicsService_) {
+        throw std::runtime_error("frame.bullet_physics requires an IPhysicsService");
+    }
+    WorkflowStepIoResolver resolver;
+    const std::string deltaKey = resolver.GetRequiredInputKey(step, "delta");
+    const auto* delta = context.TryGet<double>(deltaKey);
+    if (!delta) {
+        throw std::runtime_error("frame.bullet_physics missing delta input");
+    }
+    physicsService_->StepSimulation(static_cast<float>(*delta));
+    if (logger_) {
+        logger_->Trace("WorkflowFrameBulletPhysicsStep", "Execute",
+                       "delta=" + std::to_string(*delta),
+                       "Bullet physics step completed");
+    }
+}
+
+}  // namespace sdl3cpp::services::impl
diff --git a/src/services/impl/workflow_frame_bullet_physics_step.hpp b/src/services/impl/workflow_frame_bullet_physics_step.hpp
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..b75207c
--- /dev/null
+++ b/src/services/impl/workflow_frame_bullet_physics_step.hpp
@@ -0,0 +1,25 @@
+#pragma once
+
+#include "../interfaces/i_logger.hpp"
+#include "../interfaces/i_physics_service.hpp"
+#include "../interfaces/i_workflow_step.hpp"
+
+#include <memory>
+#include <string>
+
+namespace sdl3cpp::services::impl {
+
+class WorkflowFrameBulletPhysicsStep final : public IWorkflowStep {
+public:
+    WorkflowFrameBulletPhysicsStep(std::shared_ptr<IPhysicsService> physicsService,
+                                   std::shared_ptr<ILogger> logger);
+
+    std::string GetPluginId() const override;
+    void Execute(const WorkflowStepDefinition& step, WorkflowContext& context) override;
+
+private:
+    std::shared_ptr<IPhysicsService> physicsService_;
+    std::shared_ptr<ILogger> logger_;
+};
+
+}  // namespace sdl3cpp::services::impl
diff --git a/tests/workflow_definition_parser_test.cpp b/tests/workflow_definition_parser_test.cpp
index 855348f..0540dad 100644
--- a/tests/workflow_definition_parser_test.cpp
+++ b/tests/workflow_definition_parser_test.cpp
@@ -80,3 +80,71 @@ TEST(WorkflowDefinitionParserTest, FailsWhenPluginIsMissing) {
         EXPECT_NE(message.find("plugin"), std::string::npos);
     }
 }
+
+TEST(WorkflowDefinitionParserTest, ParsesN8nNodesWithConnections) {
+    const std::string json = R"json({
+  "template": "boot.default",
+  "nodes": [
+    {
+      "id": "load_config",
+      "plugin": "config.load",
+      "inputs": { "path": "config.path" },
+      "outputs": { "document": "config.document" }
+    },
+    {
+      "name": "validate_schema",
+      "type": "config.schema.validate",
+      "inputs": { "document": "config.document", "path": "config.path" }
+    }
+  ],
+  "connections": {
+    "load_config": {
+      "main": [
+        [
+          { "node": "validate_schema", "type": "main", "index": 0 }
+        ]
+      ]
+    }
+  }
+})json";
+
+    TempFile file(json);
+    sdl3cpp::services::impl::WorkflowDefinitionParser parser;
+    const auto workflow = parser.ParseFile(file.path);
+
+    ASSERT_EQ(workflow.steps.size(), 2u);
+    EXPECT_EQ(workflow.steps[0].id, "load_config");
+    EXPECT_EQ(workflow.steps[0].plugin, "config.load");
+    EXPECT_EQ(workflow.steps[1].id, "validate_schema");
+    EXPECT_EQ(workflow.steps[1].plugin, "config.schema.validate");
+}
+
+TEST(WorkflowDefinitionParserTest, RejectsUnknownNodeInConnections) {
+    const std::string json = R"json({
+  "nodes": [
+    {
+      "id": "start",
+      "plugin": "config.load"
+    }
+  ],
+  "connections": {
+    "start": {
+      "main": [
+        [
+          { "node": "missing", "type": "main", "index": 0 }
+        ]
+      ]
+    }
+  }
+})json";
+
+    TempFile file(json);
+    sdl3cpp::services::impl::WorkflowDefinitionParser parser;
+    try {
+        parser.ParseFile(file.path);
+        FAIL() << "Expected workflow parser to reject unknown node connection";
+    } catch (const std::runtime_error& error) {
+        const std::string message = error.what();
+        EXPECT_NE(message.find("unknown node"), std::string::npos);
+    }
+}