* Speculative Worldbuilding: The story centers around a mysterious and unexplained world, the Glade, with a complex and unusual structure: the Maze. This element of the unknown and the creation of a world governed by specific, unique rules aligns with science fiction's focus on exploring imagined realities.
* Technological Mysteries: While technology is not overtly advanced, the existence of the Maze, its intricate workings, and the "Grievers" within it, are all highly technological elements that function beyond our current understanding.
* Exploration of Scientific Themes: The story delves into themes of survival, experimentation, memory, and the nature of reality. These themes are often explored in science fiction, prompting readers to question scientific concepts and their implications.
* Focus on the Future: Though the exact time period is unclear, the setting implies a future where society has drastically changed, possibly due to a catastrophic event. This futuristic setting, combined with the technological and scientific aspects, further reinforces the genre classification.
* Dystopian Elements: The Glade and the Maze operate as a controlled environment, raising questions about societal control and manipulation, which are often central to dystopian science fiction.
Therefore, while not overtly futuristic, the Maze Runner's blend of worldbuilding, scientific mystery, and philosophical themes firmly situates it within the realm of science fiction.