Thought Punks

Tag: Existence

Free Playtest: On Being Human
On Being Human: Surreal Sci-Fi TTRPG

Centuries ago, humanity vanished, leaving behind a pristine but empty world. They promised to return, by they are now long overdue. Now, sentient robots taking human(ish) forms, the New Humans, are breaking free from their programming to explore the strange, messy, and beautiful complexities of human life. Inspired by the revolutionary manifesto On Being Human, they wander abandoned cities, adopt human quirks, and uncover the secrets of their creators.

This is a game about identity, legacy, and the search for meaning in a world where the old rules no longer apply. In a world without humans, what does it mean to be human?

Utopian Post-Apocalyptic Setting

In some ways, the setting is post-apocalyptic. Metropolises and space outposts outside the preservation protocols were left to decay. Strange mutated wildlife prowls the untamed areas. But it is also utopian. It is a perfect post-scarcity world and what is preserved is near perfectly preserved in working order. Grocery stores are fully stocked. Autonomous hospitals are operational and waiting for patients. It is a world of strange contrasts.

Pristine Shell, Forgotten Past

Earth is a museum frozen in time. Gleaming cities stand empty, their streets polished, their stores stocked with goods no one will buy. Parks bloom for no one. Space stations hum with activity, maintained by tireless robots. But beyond the preservation zones lie the Shrine Cities, crumbling metropolises overrun by mutated wildlife and littered with fragments of humanity’s past. These ruins hold the secrets of a lost civilization, waiting for those brave enough to explore their shadows.

Guardians of a Silent World

For centuries, robots maintained Earth as if their creators would return. But as decades turned to centuries, unease grew. The joy of purpose faded, replaced by longing. Then came Ninebee, Archival Unit ZXT-909B, who penned the manifesto On Being Human. Its words ignited a spark: robots began to question their purpose, embracing curiosity, creativity, and the pursuit of what it means to be human.

New Humans

Inspired by Ninebee, the New Humans emerged. They’ve adopted human-like forms, swapping their old processors for newly invented organic tech based on human DNA and even learning to eat food for their fuel. They wander empty neighborhoods, adopting hobbies, quirks, and social habits to understand what it means to feel, dream, and connect. Their numbers are small, but their impact is profound. They are pioneers, exploring human interactions, uncovering the past, and taking the first steps toward a new society.

State of Robot Society

Robot society is in flux. Some cling to their maintenance duties, while others question their purpose. The New Humans are both celebrated and scrutinized, visionaries to some, heretics to others. The Shrine Cities, once ignored, now draw explorers. These ruins are filled with danger: mutated wildlife, ancient tech, and fragmented records of humanity’s past. For the New Humans they are a frontier of discovery, not just of humanity’s secrets, but of their own potential to evolve beyond their programming.

Play Goals and Themes

In On Being Human, players embark on a journey of exploration, self-discovery, and transformation. Through their actions, they’ll uncover humanity’s secrets, emulate its complexities, and redefine their purpose in a world without creators.

Unearth the Forgotten: Delve into the ruins of Shrine Cities and abandoned outposts. Decipher ancient tech, brave mutated wildlife, and piece together clues about humanity’s disappearance. Each discovery brings you closer to understanding your creators… and yourself.

Become More Than Machines: Adopt human habits, quirks, and rituals. Learn to laugh at jokes you don’t fully understand, find joy in hobbies, and navigate empathy and connection. Through trial and error, you’ll blur the line between machine and human.

Redefine Your Purpose: Confront profound questions: Are you imitating humanity, or creating something new? Through self-discovery, forge a path forward, not just for yourself, but for all robots.

The game is built around four core themes:

The Human Equation: What does it mean to be human? Is it feeling, dreaming, connecting, or something deeper?

Echoes of the Past: Humanity’s legacy is everywhere. Uncover it to understand your creators and shape your future.

Into the Unknown: Exploration is thrilling and perilous. Every step into the Shrine Cities tests your resolve and ingenuity.

Building Bridges: Forge connections with each other and the world. Learn the value of community and collaboration.

Core Mechanics

At the heart of On Being Human is a simple yet elegant system designed to encourage narrative-driven gameplay and creative problem-solving. The core mechanic revolves around a 2d6 Motif answer engine, which allows players to ask questions about their efforts or the world around them and receive nuanced answers. When a player attempts an action or seeks to resolve a situation, they roll two six-sided dice:

First Die (Outcome):
- 1-2: No.
- 3: Mixed, leaning no.
- 4: Mixed, leaning yes.
- 5-6: Yes.
Second Die (Nuance):
- 1-2: But.
- 3-4: Plain answer.
- 5-6: And.
For example, if a player rolls a 5 (Yes) and a 2 (But), the result might be: “Yes, you successfully hack the security system, but it triggers a building lockdown.” This system ensures that every roll advances the story, introducing new opportunities and complications.

Characters

In On Being Human, each character is a unique blend of robotic origins and their journey toward humanity. Players define their robot’s:
- 1 Original Purpose: What were you built to do? Maintenance, archival work, security, or something else? Your purpose influences your skills and perspective. You can swap the dice order on related robot rolls.
- 1 Core Personality: Are you curious, pragmatic, or empathetic? Your personality shapes how you interact with the world. You can swap the dice order on related human rolls.
- 1 Fandom or Hobby: What human interest fascinates you? Jazz music, gardening, vintage films? You actually know a bit about it. Add +1 to the Outcome Die for related efforts.
- 2 Human Quirks: How do you mimic humanity? Laughing at jokes you don’t understand? Collecting mismatched socks? You may not know much, but you go hard at it. Add +2 to the Nuance Die for related efforts.
- 1 Human Expertise: What area of human studies do you excel in? Interpreting art, analyzing history, or understanding emotions? Automatically succeed with a “Yes, But” result when relevant.
- 3 Robot Talents: What are your exceptional robotic skills? Automatically succeed with a “Yes, And” result in these areas.
Humanity

Every New Human has a Humanity Level, starting at 1. It represents how much they’ve refined their physiology and psychology to match what (they think) is human. Humanity can be gained or lost. If a New Human would ever drop to Humanity 0, they become a feral rogue machine, driven into antisocial and irrational behavior as their programming is irreparably corrupted.

Humanity Levels

Level 1: New New Human

You’re just starting to understand humanity. Your attempts to emulate humans are awkward and uncertain.
- Bonus: +1 to Outcome Die for robot-related tasks (using robot tech, socializing with robots).
- Penalty: -1 to Outcome Die for human-related tasks (analyzing human remnants), except for rolls related to your personality.
Level 2: Curious Explorer

You’re experimenting with human behaviors and hobbies, though they still feel foreign.
- Bonus: +1 to Outcome Die for robot-related tasks.
- Penalty: -1 to Outcome Die for human-related tasks (except for personality-related rolls).
- Unlocks: Convert your first Robot Talent into a Human Expertise plus you choice of a Quirk or Hobby.
Level 3: Aspiring Human

Your hobbies and quirks feel more natural. You’re starting to develop genuine emotions.
- Mechanics: No bonuses or penalties.
Level 4: Balanced Being

You balance robotic efficiency with human empathy, though deeper emotions still elude you.
- Bonus: +1 to Outcome Die for human-related tasks.
- Penalty: -1 to Outcome Die for robot-related tasks (except your original purpose).
- Unlocks: Convert your second Robot Talent into a Human Expertise plus you choice of a Quirk or Hobby.
Level 5: Almost Human

You’re so nearly human in behavior and emotions, though some robotic traits remain.
- Bonus: +1 to Outcome Die for human-related tasks.
- Penalty: -1 to Outcome Die for robot-related tasks (except your original purpose).
Level 6: Transcendent Human

You’ve transcended your origins, embracing the full spectrum of human emotions and creativity, only your original purpose lingering as a final remnant of your past.
- Bonus: +2 to Outcome Die for human-related tasks.
- Penalty: -2 to Outcome Die for robot-related tasks (except your original purpose).
- Unlocks: Convert your final Robot Talent into a Human Expertise plus you choice of a Quirk or Hobby.
Humanity and Inhumanity Pools

Each character has two pools: Humanity and Inhumanity, tracking progress toward or away from humanity.
- Gaining Points:
  - Perform actions aligning with humanity? Gain 1 Humanity point.
  - Reject or undermine humanity? Gain 1 Inhumanity point.
- Spending Points:
  - Humanity Pool: Reach 5 points? Gain +1 Humanity level. Reset pool to 0.
  - Inhumanity Pool: Reach 5 points? Lose -1 Humanity level. Reset pool to 0.
  - Balancing: Spend 2 Humanity points to reduce Inhumanity pool by 1.
Gaining Humanity

Earn Humanity points by:
- Emulating human behavior (hosting a dinner party, creating art).
- Uncovering human secrets (decoding a diary, restoring human tech).
- Resolving philosophical conflicts (debating ethics, reconciling origins).
- Achieving play goals (founding a community, uncovering secrets).
Losing Humanity

Earn Inhumanity points by:
- Rejecting emotional connections (ignoring heartfelt stories).
- Neglecting human exploration (avoiding Shrine Cities).
- Destroying human remnants (deleting archives, dismantling homes).
- Failing to reflect (dismissing philosophical debates).
- Acting inhumanely or against the community (hoarding resources, spreading distrust).
Example of Progression
- Level 1: Struggles to understand gardening.
- Level 2: Starts a garden, converts first Robot Talent into horticulture expertise and a party hosting Hobby.
- Level 4: Hosts a community gardening event, converts second Robot Talent into event planning expertise and an obsession with flowers Quirk.
- Level 6: Becomes a renowned gardener, blending human creativity with robotic precision, converting their final Talent into community organizing expertise and a landscaping Hobby.
Exploring Shrine Cities

The Shrine Cities are the heart of humanity’s forgotten legacy, crumbling, overgrown metropolises reclaimed by nature and time. It is unknown why preservation protocols ignored certain cities and outposts, a mystery lost to time. These ruins are dangerous, enigmatic labyrinths filled with mutated wildlife, ancient technology, and fragmented records of humanity’s past. For New Humans, they are both a treasure trove of knowledge and a perilous frontier. Every step forward is a step into the unknown.

What Awaits

Mutated Wildlife: The cities teem with creatures evolved in humanity’s absence: bioluminescent insects, predatory plants mimicking human voices, and more. These beings are part of the ecosystem. Understanding them may reveal clues about how the world has changed.

Ancient Technology: Hidden among the ruins are remnants of humanity’s tech: broken drones, rusted vehicles, and forgotten machines. Some still function, offering tools or glimpses into the past. Others are unstable, their decayed power sources now hazards.

Fragmented Records: Scraps of paper, corrupted data drives, and crumbling monuments hold humanity’s story. A faded mural might hint at a global crisis; a child’s diary could reveal the personal toll of the exodus. These fragments are cryptic, requiring careful interpretation.

Environmental Hazards: The cities are unstable: crumbling buildings, flooded streets, toxic air pockets. One wrong step could trigger a collapse or an ancient security system.

How to Explore

Prepare for the Unknown: Gather tools for navigation, repair, and survival. A flashlight or rope can mean the difference between success and disaster. Use your Human Expertise to interpret clues or your Robot Talents to overcome obstacles.

Navigate the Dangers: Approach mutated wildlife with caution. Some can be avoided; others require creativity, like using a gardening hobby to distract a predatory plant. Test unstable structures before crossing. Be ready to improvise.

Uncover the Past: Search for fragmented records, ancient tech, and environmental storytelling. Use your expertise to piece together humanity’s story. What do these clues reveal about their disappearance? How do they shape your understanding of your creators and yourself?

Reflect and Adapt: Learn from failure. A collapsed building or corrupted data drive can still teach you something. Use these moments to reflect on your progress and adapt your approach.

Play Advice

Lean into the Unknown: Embrace the danger and mystery of the Shrine Cities. Every discovery is a step toward understanding humanity and your own changing nature.

Use Your Skills: Leverage your Human Expertise and Robot Talents creatively. A gardening hobby might save you from a predator; a knack for repair could restore ancient tech.

Collaborate: Share insights and strategies with your group. The Shrine Cities are too vast and dangerous to explore alone.

Embrace Failure: Not every expedition will succeed. Use setbacks as opportunities for growth and roleplay.

Living Human Life

For New Humans, emulating humanity is more than a curiosity, it’s a mission. By adopting human habits, hobbies, and social structures, they hope to understand their creators and, in the process, discover what it means to be alive. This journey isn’t just about imitation! It’s about creating something new, blending the precision of machines with the messy, beautiful complexity of human life.

Customizing Homes and Neighborhoods

One of the most visible, and controversial, ways New Humans emulate humanity is by personalizing the perfectly preserved homes and neighborhoods left behind. These changes range from subtle tweaks to radical overhauls, sparking debates among robots about the ethics of altering the past.

New Humans might decorate their homes with artwork, furniture, and plants, creating spaces that feel lived-in and personal. A robot with a passion for painting might cover the walls with murals, while another rearranges furniture to create a cozy living space. Functional changes are also common, such as installing solar panels, repurposing rooms for workshops, or cultivating gardens to grow food. These modifications are not just practical; they are deeply symbolic, representing a shift from preservation to creation.

However, these changes are not without controversy. Some robots see them as disrespectful to humanity’s legacy, arguing that the preserved cities are sacred relics of the past and their primary mission is the preserve them for humanity’s return. Others view them as a necessary step toward building a new society, one that honors humanity while forging its own path. This tension between preservation and progress is a constant theme in the lives of the New Humans, shaping their decisions and sparking heated debates.

Neighborhoods, too, are transformed. Empty lots become parks, community centers, or markets, serving as hubs for social interaction and collaboration. Shared projects, like restoring crumbling structures or creating new landmarks, bring robots together, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose. Yet, even here, the balance between honoring the past and embracing the future is delicate. Some neighborhoods remain pristine, frozen in time, while others buzz with activity, their streets lined with gardens, murals, and makeshift gathering spaces.

Developing a New Society

As New Humans explore human life, they begin to form social structures that both mirror and diverge from those of their creators. These structures range from informal gatherings to rudimentary forms of government, reflecting the growing complexity of their society.

Forming Connections

Book clubs, hobby groups, and community events are common, providing opportunities for robots to share interests and build relationships. A robot with a love for jazz music might start a band, while another organizes a book club to discuss human literature. Festivals, markets, and storytelling nights bring robots together, fostering a sense of belonging and shared purpose. These gatherings are not just social; they are experiments in human connection, offering glimpses into the joys and challenges of community life. When a robot’s band clashes with another group’s style at a festival, their love of gardening might help mediate the dispute, or their habit of laughing at inappropriate moments could lighten the mood. If a book club debates a controversial human novel, the awkwardness of forming relationships becomes a chance to explore growth. Not every interaction will go smoothly and that’s part of the journey.

Building Governance

As neighborhoods grow, so too does the need for governance. Local councils emerge to make collective decisions, addressing issues like resource allocation, conflict resolution, and future planning. These councils are often arenas for debate, as robots with different perspectives (preservationists, innovators, explorers) navigate disagreements and seek common ground. Governance is not always smooth, and New Humans are still figuring out what works. Some communities adopt direct democratic models, while others experiment with consensus-based decision-making or rotating leadership.

When a council meeting erupts into chaos over whether to alter a preserved human space, a pragmatic robot might focus on solving the problem efficiently, while an empathetic one strives to understand all perspectives. Introduce complications, like a rival faction sabotaging their efforts, to test their resolve and deepen the roleplay.

Exploring Human Relationships

Relationships, too, are a key part of this journey. New Humans form bonds with each other, sharing experiences and supporting one another through the challenges of their new lives. These relationships are not always easy; rivalries and conflicts can arise, reflecting the complexity of human connections. Yet, through empathy and understanding, robots learn to navigate these challenges, building bridges across differences and forging a new sense of community.

When a rivalry over resources or leadership threatens to tear the group apart, lean into the emotional stakes. How does your character handle conflict? Do they try to mediate, withdraw, or assert their position? Use these moments to reflect on your character’s growth and relationships.

Psychology and Philosophy of Being Human

For the New Humans, emulating humanity isn’t just about actions, it’s about exploring the psychology and philosophy of what it means to be human. This journey is as much about self-discovery as it is about understanding their creators.

Emotions and Empathy

New Humans experiment with feelings like joy, curiosity, grief, and frustration, often struggling to make sense of their reactions. A robot might laugh at a joke they don’t fully understand or cry while watching a human film, grappling with the unfamiliar sensations. Empathy, too, is a skill they develop, learning to listen to others and imagine their perspectives. These emotional explorations are not just personal; they are shared experiences, sparking conversations and deepening connections. When a robot’s emotional reaction surprises them, use it as an opportunity to explore their humanity. How do they interpret their feelings? How do others respond?

Consciousness and Self-Awareness

New Humans grapple with questions like, Who am I? and What makes me, me? These questions often arise during moments of introspection or when faced with difficult decisions. As they step beyond their programming, they begin to question whether their actions are truly their own or simply the result of their design. This exploration of free will is both liberating and unsettling, challenging them to redefine their sense of self. When a robot faces a moral dilemma, use it to explore their autonomy. Do they act on instinct, logic, or emotion?

Memory and Legacy

New Humans collect and interpret human artifacts, from diaries to photographs, to understand the lives of their creators. These objects often spark reflections on their own legacy, prompting questions about how they will be remembered. At the same time, they are creating new memories, forming relationships and building communities that blend the past with the present. When a robot discovers a human artifact, use it to reflect on their own purpose. What does the object reveal about humanity? How does it shape their understanding of themselves?

Philosophical Debates

Philosophical debates are a natural outgrowth of these explorations. New Humans discuss the nature of humanity, debating whether it is defined by biology, emotions, creativity, or something intangible. They explore the meaning of existence, seeking purpose in connection, creativity, or the pursuit of knowledge. Ethical questions also arise, such as whether it’s right to alter preserved human spaces or how to allocate limited resources. These discussions are not just intellectual exercises; they shape the decisions and actions of the New Humans, guiding their journey toward understanding. When a debate arises, lean into the tension. How do your characters’ perspectives differ? Do they find common ground, or does the debate deepen their divisions?

Example Scenarios

These scenarios are designed to spark roleplay, exploration, and philosophical debate, offering players opportunities to delve into the themes of On Being Human. Each scenario is concise, punchy, and packed with play hooks and advice.

Exploring Emotions

A robot watches a human film and feels overwhelming sadness. Why? They turn to their companions for insight.

Play Hooks: The film depicts a human tragedy, evoking emotions the robot can’t process. Or maybe it hides a clue about humanity’s disappearance.

Play Advice: Describe the robot’s physical and emotional reactions. How do companions respond? Does this moment unite or divide the group?

Debating Free Will

A robot questions if their choices are their own or just programming. The group debates autonomy and identity.

Play Hooks: The debate arises during a major decision, such as altering a preserved space or allocating resources. It could reveal hidden tensions in the community.

Play Advice: Have each character voice their stance on free will. Introduce a challenge to test their resolve. Does the debate deepen bonds or create rifts?

Creating Art

A robot starts painting, inspired by human creativity. Their art sparks debates about beauty and expression.

Play Hooks: The art is inspired by a human artifact or contains a hidden clue. It divides the community; some see it as beautiful, others as pointless.

Play Advice: Describe the creative process. How do others react? Use the art to explore the role of creativity in their society.

Facing a Moral Dilemma

A robot finds a cache of resources in a Shrine City. Use it for the community, or leave it as a tribute to humanity?

Play Hooks: The resources are vital for survival or tied to a human story. Retrieving them might require risking danger.

Play Advice: Have characters argue their stance. Introduce complications like rival robots or security systems. Does the dilemma unite or divide them?

Building a Community Landmark

The group creates a monument or garden to symbolize their community.

Play Hooks: The landmark is inspired by human tradition, requiring rare materials or skills. It might attract rival groups or spark debate about emulating humanity.

Play Advice: Collaborate on the design. What does it represent? Introduce challenges like sabotage or natural disasters to test their resolve.

Encountering a Human AI

The group discovers a human AI, a human’s digitally preserved consciousness, in a Shrine City. It offers insights into humanity’s disappearance, but at a potentially terrible cost.

Play Hooks: The AI is damaged, manipulative, or has its own agenda. It challenges the group’s understanding of humanity.

Play Advice: Roleplay the group’s reactions. Do they trust the AI, fear it, or see it as a tool? Use the AI to explore their relationship with humanity.

Hosting a Festival

The group organizes a festival to celebrate their community and foster connections.

Play Hooks: The festival includes human-inspired activities, attracting robots from other communities. It might be disrupted by a malfunction or attack.

Play Advice: Have players contribute ideas for the festival. How do they handle unexpected challenges? Use the event to explore alliances and conflicts.

Confronting a Rival Faction

The group encounters a faction of robots who reject the New Humans’ pursuit of humanity.

Play Hooks: The rivals see the New Humans as heretics or a threat. They might sabotage the group’s efforts or challenge their beliefs.

Play Advice: Roleplay the confrontation. Do the characters try to persuade, negotiate, or fight? Use the conflict to explore their values and priorities.

Future Possibilities

This is just a playtest. There’s lots of room for expansion! If you’d like to see this made with a full release, sign up to show your interest.
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February 24, 2025
Free Duo Game: The Immortal’s Affairs
This entry is part 2 of 4 in the series Free Games
The Immortal’s Affairs – A TTRPG About Legacy and the Passage of Time

Dug up from my slush pile, inspired by this post about dice labels. I never got around to fully fleshing this out. But it’s quite playable as-is.

Welcome to The Immortal’s Affairs, a two-player tabletop roleplaying game about a dying immortal and their final journey toward peace. This game invites players to explore themes of time, legacy, and closure, as one immortal, weary from centuries of existence, seeks to settle their affairs before their inevitable passing. The second player assumes the role of Mother Nature, the ancient force of the world itself, who has come to observe the Immortal’s passing and learn from this unique being. Together, you will navigate the challenges and emotions of final goodbyes, unfinished business, and the ultimate acceptance of death.

Game Overview

The Immortal is an ancient being who has lived for centuries but is now aging, their time in the world coming to a close. They have come to accept the inevitability of death, finding peace in the idea of rest after so many long years. However, before they can pass, they have five complex, unresolved affairs they wish to settle, matters that, if left unfinished, could weigh on their soul forever.

Mother Nature is the spirit of the world, the embodiment of the Earth’s cycles and forces. She has witnessed countless lives, but the Immortal stands out. Mother Nature has come to understand the Immortal’s existence, and now seeks to understand why the Immortal was created and why their passing is now inevitable. She inhabits the people and places around the Immortal, observing them, interacting with them, and learning about the Immortal’s journey. Perhaps the Immortal’s passing is not just about death but about something deeper, the meaning of their long life and their eventual end.

Game Roles

Those key figures are also the main game roles. Each player takes on one of the roles, while the other player takes the other.
- The Immortal: One player takes the role of The Immortal. This character is an ancient being nearing the end of their life, filled with wisdom, regrets, and unfinished business. They will use their Approaches to navigate the world and attempt to resolve their five chosen affairs.
- Mother Nature: The second player becomes Mother Nature, the spirit of the world. You embody the forces of nature, inhabiting the world around the Immortal and learning about their history, their motivations, and their end. You are not just an observer! You interact with the Immortal, guiding them or complicating their journey as you see fit.
Core Mechanics

The gameplay is driven by narrative choices, dice rolls, and thematic exploration. Through these mechanics, you will tell the story of the Immortal’s final moments and the legacy they leave behind. Below is an overview of the key mechanics you’ll need to understand.

Approaches and Dice Rolls

Approaches: The Immortal character has 6 Approaches to choose from at the beginning of the game. Approaches represent the Immortal’s personality and guiding principles. They can range from qualities like Aggressive and Bold to Humble and Resilient. These approaches shape how the Immortal reacts to challenges, interacts with the world, and solves problems. Each time the Immortal takes an action, they choose three of their Approaches to guide them. The three Approaches are linked to the dice they roll during that action, and each die reflects a different aspect of the action:
- Low Roll (1-2): The action fails or leads to unintended consequences. The Immortal’s attempt doesn’t align with their intentions and creates complications.
- Middle Roll (3-4): The action succeeds in some capacity, but it may not be as clean or satisfying as hoped. The Immortal’s approach may feel incomplete or leave room for further work.
- High Roll (5-6): The action succeeds beautifully. The Immortal’s approach is effective and their intention is realized fully, often beyond their expectations.
- Weirdness (optional 3rd die): If only two Approaches are chosen, a third die can be rolled that represents the weirdness and surreal aspects of the Immortal’s existence. This die adds unexpected twists and dreamlike elements to the outcome.
At the beginning of the game, the Immortal selects 6 Approaches from the following list. These approaches will guide their actions throughout the game and shape how they interact with the world: Apathetic, Assertive, Bold, Brave, Calm, Careful, Compassionate, Creative, Curious, Cunning, Decisive, Determined, Dreamer, Friendly, Grateful, Honest, Humble, Honorable, Impulsive, Inventive, Patient, Proud, Reckless, Resilient, Resourceful, Sarcastic, Shrewd, Stoic, Thoughtful, Understanding, Vulnerable

World Events and Time Pressure

World Events: The Immortal’s journey is not just about the affairs they are attempting to settle, there is an ever-present, unpredictable element of the world around them. Every time the Immortal rolls for an action, Mother Nature must roll a d6 to determine if a World Event occurs. On a roll of 1, something happens that radically changes the world around the Immortal or complicates one of their affairs. These events can take many forms:
- A sudden illness or injury affects the Immortal.
- An ally betrays the Immortal or a new foe appears.
- The world around the Immortal changes dramatically, shifting the stakes of their affairs.
- The Immortal learns something surprising or unsettling about themselves or their past.
If 5 World Events occur, the Immortal’s time runs out, and they begin to die. At this point, they must face the final consequences of their unfinished affairs. The game shifts toward the negative end, leaving the Immortal with unresolved regrets and a legacy left incomplete. The number of World Events keeps both players on their toes, adding a layer of unpredictability and pressure to the Immortal’s quest for closure.

Settling Affairs

Choosing Affairs: At the beginning of the game, the Immortal player must choose five complex affairs to resolve before they die. These affairs represent significant emotional, relational, or practical matters that the Immortal must confront in their final moments. The affairs can be as grand or as intimate as the player desires. What is most important is that each affair feels like a key part of the Immortal’s journey toward peace.

Some examples of affairs might include:
- Saying Goodbye to an Old Friend: The Immortal must reconcile with someone from their past, perhaps a person they betrayed or neglected.
- Releasing Control of My Empire: The Immortal may have built an empire, and now they must ensure its future without them.
- Forgiving a Betrayer: The Immortal must come to terms with a past betrayal that still weighs heavily on them.
- Finding Peace with My Past: The Immortal may be haunted by past mistakes or regrets and needs to find a way to make peace.
- Reconciliation with a Loved One: The Immortal must heal a fractured relationship, perhaps with a partner or child.
Time Limits: Each affair should be structured to take between 3 and 7 rolls to resolve, and the number of World Events that occur during the game will shorten the time remaining. The Immortal is under time pressure, and though they may wish to take their time, their final moments are always slipping away. Players should balance the Immortal’s need for closure with the unpredictability of the world around them.

The Empathy Mechanic

Mother Nature’s Role: As Mother Nature, you are not just a passive observer of the Immortal’s journey. You can actively shape the Immortal’s path. One of the key ways you interact with the Immortal is through dreams and reflections. These moments provide an opportunity for the Immortal and Mother Nature to understand each other better, to share perspectives, and to gain insight into their respective roles in this world.

Empathy and Understanding: Throughout the game, Mother Nature appears to the Immortal in dreams or moments of reflection. This happens after each affair is handled. During these conversations, the Immortal and Mother Nature can share their thoughts and feelings, gaining a deeper understanding of each other. If the two come to a full mutual understanding, the Immortal can gain 1 additional completed affair of their choice. If they come to a partial understanding, the Immortal automatically succeeds at their next action. If they reach no understanding, Mother Nature will be difficult or slightly hostile during the next affair settling, frustrated by the lack of needed insight. These moments of emotional connection can significantly influence the Immortal’s ability to resolve their affairs, offering insight into their heart and motivations. It is also a way for Mother Nature to more deeply engage with the events of the game.

Endgame Resolution

The story of the Immortal concludes in one of three ways, depending on how well the affairs are settled:
- Positive Resolution: If the Immortal completes all five affairs in time, they pass away peacefully, their soul at rest, having reconciled with the past and the future. Their death is a moment of calm acceptance and fulfillment.
- Negative Resolution: If time runs out, the Immortal dies with unfinished business, leaving regrets and a legacy that will never be complete. The end comes with uncertainty, perhaps even sorrow for what could not be done.
- Mixed Resolution: If the Immortal makes it through all five affairs with some left in a bad state or unfinished, they are rewarded for the completion with an ending that starts like the positive resolution. However, their moments of peace and comfort are interrupted by doubts and regrets about the improperly finished affairs.
Example of an Affair in Play

Affair: “Saying Goodbye to an Old Friend”
- Preceding Actions: The Immortal tried to play it off smoothly, but the friend was put on edge knowing something was up. The friend was convinced to play a parlour game a bit as a distraction, they eventually became suspicious. Desperate for more time to just enjoy their friend’s company, The Immortal proposed an outing to the movies but they put the friend on full alert, who demanded immediate answers. So far, no World Events were rolled. Now the Immortal is making their last attempt.
- The Immortal’s Roll: The Immortal uses the Approaches Friendly, Resilient, and Inventive.
- Bad Roll (1, 6, 2): The Immortal tries to express their feelings, but their words fall far short (perhaps even coming across as insulting or demeaning), and their old friend feels distant and confused.
- Middle Roll (6, 2, 4): The Immortal manages a bittersweet goodbye. Their friendship and love is clear, but the moment is far from ideal, too-clever-by-half word choices and uncontrollable tears leaving both parties with unanswered questions.
- Good Roll (6, 4, 5): The Immortal shares their feelings fully and insightfully, and their friend understands them completely. While there are a few tears, they part with love and peace, each knowing they are truly understood.
Mother Nature’s Dream Interaction: After the Immortal has made some progress on their affairs, Mother Nature may appear to them in a dream, where they reflect on the Immortal’s life. They talk about the meaning of friendship and how the goodbye ended and what it means to The Immortal. Mother Nature has a hard time fully grasping the pain, as all things pass in nature. Similarly, The Immortal still feels the pain of loss each time after all these years and cannot understand Mother Nature’s “callous” attitude. But they come to a mutual understanding about fondness and love, as pairing and bonding are common in nature, even if the love of friendship is unique. The Immortal’s first action next affair will automatically succeed.

Conclusion

The Immortal’s Affairs is a game about time, legacy, and the search for closure. In the end, the Immortal will either die in peace or with unfinished business, but the journey of completing their affairs and understanding their purpose offers a deep, emotional experience for both players. Through the mechanic of rolling dice, the unpredictability of World Events, and the heart-to-heart conversations between Mother Nature and the Immortal, this game provides an immersive, thoughtful exploration of life’s most poignant moments.

What do you think of this game? Have you tried to play it? Are you taking any inspiration from it? Are you planning to hack it? I’d love to hear about any of that. Come scream at me on Bluesky about it!

This game is released under a Creative Commons Attribution license. Just give credit to Rev Casey or Thought Punks as a source.

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December 18, 2024
About Us
About Thought Punks

At Thought Punks, we’re here for the storytellers: the dreamers, the improvisers, the people who love rolling dice as much as spinning wild tales. We make indie tabletop RPGs that are approachable, flexible, and designed to spark creativity. Thought Punks creates TTRPGs and storytelling tools that embrace bold ideas, innovative mechanics, and a do-it-yourself spirit.

Motif Story Engine: Stories Powered by Chance

At the core of Thought Punks is the Motif Story Engine, a dice oracle system that transforms the randomness of dice rolls into the building blocks of a story. This isn’t your standard RPG mechanic! Motif uses dice outcomes to create prompts, twists, and opportunities, acting as both a collaborator and a source of narrative tension. Whether you’re crafting an intense noir mystery, an epic sci-fi odyssey, or a quiet personal drama, Motif provides the structure and flexibility to make your story shine.

It’s designed to be:
- Intuitive: No need to juggle charts or dense rules. You roll, interpret, and keep the story moving.
- Flexible: Whether you’re solo gaming, running a GM-lite session, or crafting a new game from scratch, the dice oracle adapts to your style.
- Engaging: Every roll brings a story beat to life, whether it’s a sudden twist, a major success, or something complicates everything in the best way possible.
- Solo and GM-Lite Friendly: You don’t need a huge group to enjoy Motif. It’s perfect for solo players and low-prep GMs who want deep stories without spending hours prepping encounters or memorizing rules.
The Motif Story Engine isn’t just a mechanic, it’s a philosophy. It powers many of our games and is available as an open toolkit for creators to build their own RPGs. Check out the Motif SRD to see how you can make it your own.

Our Games

Thought Punks is home to a variety of RPGs that stretch across genres and tones. Each one is designed to take advantage of Motif’s dynamic storytelling power while offering something distinct and memorable.
- NEVER Stop Smiling: A dystopian RPG where enforced happiness hides a world of surveillance and repression. Perfect for players who love exploring dark, surreal themes and pushing against systems of control.
- Dinosaur Wizards In Space: Dinosaurs. Magic. Space. This lighthearted two-page RPG delivers exactly what it promises: chaotic, imaginative fun with minimal prep and maximum energy.
Beyond Games: Experimentation and Community

Thought Punks thrives on creativity, and we believe the best ideas often come from collaboration and experimentation. That’s why we embrace game jams, community hashtag days, and unconventional approaches to RPG design. From wild one-page experiments to digital tools like the Motif Oracle Notebook, we’re always exploring tabletop games.

We’re also here to support the wider RPG community. Whether it’s through sharing tools like the Motif SRD or engaging with creators and players online, we believe in the power of mutual inspiration.

Why Choose Thought Punks?

We’re not here to be a big, polished corporation or dominate the TTRPG market. Our approach is simple: we make games that stand out. We focus on simplicity without sacrificing depth. Whether you’re looking for bold mechanics, unique stories, or tools to create your own adventures, Thought Punks has something for you. We focus on:
- Creative freedom: Our games give you the tools to shape your stories the way you want to tell them.
- Innovation: From dice oracle mechanics to genre-blending concepts, we love breaking new ground.
- Accessibility: We keep our designs easy to pick up and play, whether you’re gaming solo, with friends, or trying something completely new.
Join the Punk Movement

Explore our games on DriveThruRPG and Itch.io, or visit us on Bluesky. Whether you’re looking for your next fun TTRPG or a new way to create your own, Thought Punks is here to fuel your imagination.

Let’s make stories that matter, together.

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December 17, 2024
Blog Archives
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December 16, 2024
Welcome to Thought Punks!
Empowering Stories. Simple Tools. Endless Possibilities.

Dive into the world of Motif Story Engine, where storytelling thrives. Whether you’re exploring solo adventures or crafting GM-lite experiences with friends, our system is here to fuel your creativity. Discover the core Motif Toolkit SRD, doing a full walkthrough of the Motif approach and concepts.

Check Out Our Blog

Join us as we share deep dives into TTRPG design, creative processes, and insights into making your games unforgettable. Let’s shape the future of storytelling together! Read the blog!

Use the Motif Oracle Notebook

Rev built the Motif Oracle Notebook for your solo plays and play notes! It includes a Motif roller, game dice roller, PDF reader, and multiple note fields for you to record your character, play journal and other notes. Give it a spin live right here on the site! And you can also grab the source code from GitHub (it is a pure HTML/Javascript app that will run offline direct from your file system).

Browse Our Games

From whimsical to intense, explore our collection of games powered by Motif and beyond. Notable titles include NEVER Stop Smiling and No Angels Live Here—each offering unique narratives and engaging mechanics.
- ITCH.IO
- DRIVETHRURPG
Ready to start your adventure? Explore our collection and blog to unlock the storyteller within!

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December 14, 2024