Thought Punks

Tag: Game mechanics

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
Secrets in the Static: The Ghost Town of Wavelength
This entry is part 4 of 4 in the series Free Games
Crowdfunding a full release now! Come support the surreal horror.

A TTRPG idea inspired by Lynchian horror, embodying surreal suburban dread and the unsettling blend of media and reality. Pulled from my playtesting slush pile in memory of David Lynch. Shared under a Creative Commons Attribution International 4.0 license. Credit “Rev from Thought Punks”. This was a beta playtest module. The formatting and presentation style reflects that. This also stands out as an example of minimalist worldbuilding.

Core Concept

The town of Wavelength exists in a strange limbo, an idyllic Upstate New York town that vanished from official records and maps in the early 1990s. Its existence has become a half-remembered myth, whispered about on long road trips and crackling through static on AM radio. Some claim to pick up ghostly broadcasts near where Wavelength supposedly stood, hearing fragments of soap operas, weather reports, or personal messages from those who lived there.

For those inside Wavelength, the town remains suspended in eerie perfection, a postcard-perfect snapshot of 90s small-town life. Quaint diners, artisanal crafts, and warm neighbors project an air of nostalgia… but the town has secrets.

Recently, televisions and radios have been infected with an omnipresent, enigmatic signal. Cryptic ads interrupt every broadcast, whispering impossible truths and surreal commands. Music swells out of nowhere, quelling any thoughts of leaving the town. Cryptic commercials, haunting soap operas, and surreal PSAs suggest the Static’s growing control. Some residents are even rumored to have vanished, replaced by eerie replicas speaking only in disjointed TV dialogue.

Players, each tied to the signal in a deeply personal way, must navigate Wavelength’s shifting reality, uncovering its secrets while holding onto their crumbling identities.

Player Hook

Each character has a personal connection to the signal, making their investigation deeply intimate. These connections could include:
- Hearing a lost loved one’s voice in a garbled ad, pleading for help.
- Seeing impossible depictions of their own future in soap opera snippets.
- Receiving unsettling, tailored messages through radio jingles.
The signal lures players in, offering tantalizing truths and supernatural powers. But the closer they get, the more it rewrites their memories, relationships, and even their physical forms.

Key Themes
- Identity Erosion: The signal corrupts characters’ self-perception and memories, forcing them to question who they are.
- Surreal Suburban Dread: Wavelength’s small-town charm contrasts with growing paranoia and uncanny horrors.
- Media and Reality Bleed: Broadcasts shape reality, and characters must interact with these phenomena to uncover the truth.
- Ambiguous Agency: Is the signal sentient? Malicious? Or just a reflection of their deepest flaws?
Gameplay Framework

Core Mechanic: The 3d6 Roll

Every action involves rolling 3d6, with each die serving a specific purpose (called “flavors” or dice labels):
- Degree Die: Measures success (1 = partial success, 6 = overwhelming success).
- Cost Die: Determines complications or costs (1 = severe, 6 = none).
- Static Die: Reflects distortion by the signal (1 = surreal, 6 = mundane).
Modifiers are added based on traits like Nature, Profession, Hobbies, and Quirks. After rolling, apply modifiers and interpret the results based on the fiction.

Character Creation
- Hook: What draws you to the Static? What do you see or hear in it?
- Nature: The core of who you are. Examples: “Survivor,” “Protector,” or “Dreamer.”
  - When in alignment: Add +2 to die of choice after rolling.
  - When in conflict: Add +3 to the Cost Die.
- Profession: Your role in Wavelength (e.g., librarian, mechanic, bartender).
  - When relevant: After rolling, rearrange the dice in any order.
- Hobbies (pick 3): Passions or skills unrelated to your profession.
  - When relevant: Add +1 to any one die after rolling.
- Quirks (pick 2): Unusual traits, some mundane, some supernatural.
  - At the start of a scene, roll 2d6, assigning one die to each Quirk. On a 6, that Quirk activates (examples: eerie theme music plays, your body distorts to walk on all fours, or you compulsively spout jingles).
- Background Details (write 3): Relationships, memories, or personal details grounding your character.
Mechanics of the Static

Static Exposure

When exposed to the signal, the GM determines the intensity of the interaction:
- Minor Exposure: Roll 1d6.
- Moderate Exposure: Roll 2d6.
- Major Exposure: Roll 3d6.
Gain 1 Static Point for every die that rolls 4 or higher.
- Minor: Listening to a cryptic ad on the radio or stopping briefly to watch a flickering TV broadcasting surreal images.
- Moderate: Watching a full broadcast that seems to address your concerns personally or deeply analyzing a broadcast for meaning or clues.
- Major: Being the focus of the signal’s direct attention, such as being spoken to directly by an anchor on a TV or being caught in a scene that is completed distorted into TV reality by the Static.
Powers from the Static

Characters with Static Points gain access to the hidden signs in the signal. These powers come in minor and major categories, reflecting their risk and scope.

Minor Powers (2 Dice)

Minor powers unlock at 3 Static Points. These are small, reality-bending effects that grant brief advantages. Roll 2d6 when using a minor power. Gain 1 Static Point for every die that rolls 4 or higher.

Examples of Minor Powers:
- Alter a Small Detail: Change a single object or memory in the immediate area (e.g., a flickering light turns solid red, a door briefly becomes a wall, or someone remembers an argument as a cordial conversation).
- Daring Insight: By bravely facing the signal with full attention for a second, you can glimpse unnoticed clues, hidden areas, torrid affairs, and other secrets in a location.
- Eerie Influence: Convince someone to act out of character using subtle, surreal persuasion.
Major Powers (4 Dice)

Major powers unlock at 6 Static points. These allow significant manipulations of reality at a cost. Roll 4d6 when using a major power. Gain 1 Static Point for every die that rolls 4 or higher.

Examples of Major Powers:
- Rewrite Reality: Change a large element in the environment, like turning a road into a river, erasing or introducing an NPC into a scene, or completely change the dynamic of a family feud.
- Erase or Implant Memories: Target one person, radically altering their memory of an event or relationship.
- Surreal Projection: Create a temporary illusion or construct that others perceive as real.
At 9 Static Points, only roll 1d6 for minor powers and 2d6 for major powers. Also ignore minor exposures and roll one less die for moderate and major exposures. The Static has begun to embrace you and it flows easily, too easily, through you. It constantly whispers in your mind, even far away from any screens or speakers, a portion of the signal finding its way directly to increasingly distorted soul.

Spending Static Points

Players can spend Static Points only during interludes between scenes to deliberately rewrite aspects of their character. This process represents an attempt to resist, or embrace, the signal’s influence, but it comes with risks.
- Determine Spending Limit: Roll 1d6. The result is the maximum number of Static Points you can spend during this interlude.
- Choose Rewrites: Spend points based on the following costs:
  - 1 Point: Change one Hobby or Quirk.
  - 2 Points: Change your Profession or a Background Detail.
  - Nature: Cannot be changed unless the character hits the Static Limit and is fully rewritten.
Roll a d6 for each thing chosen to be changed. On 1-3, change it to reflect growing closer to the Static. On 4-6, change it to reflect your personal will or what you think more truly reflects who you were before the Static trapped and rewrote the town. For signal-influenced changes, they are also accompanied by physical changes, initially simple things like hairstyles and clothing choices but eventually escalating into radical differences, almost becoming a different person.

Static Limit

If you reach 13 Static Points, you must rewrite your entire character, even your Nature and complete appearance. Everything but one background detail, a tenuous tie to the previous you, is altered. When rewriting your character, change things to what you think the Static wants or what is further away from your true self.

Assorted Advice

Spending Static Points

Treat spending as a chance for characters to direct their transformation. Frame it as a double-edged sword: while they can resist, they can never truly escape the signal’s grip. There is a random chance whether the transformations follow their will or lean into the mysterious goals of the Static. Use rewrites to develop surreal or thematic elements that deepen the story.

Using Powers

Encourage players to experiment with powers early, reinforcing the temptation to draw on the signal. As powers escalate, introduce moral and narrative consequences. For example, a small illusion might merely confuse a bystander, but a major reality shift could incidentally rewrite someone else’s identity entirely.

Exposure Rolls

Use exposure rolls to emphasize the dangers of interacting with the signal. Minor exposure should feel subtle and unnerving, while major exposure should be dramatic and unrelenting.

Dynamic Worldbuilding

The town of Wavelength evolves alongside the characters’ investigations. GMs should introduce surreal events tied to the signal’s influence, such as:
- The Laugh Track Incident: Characters hear sitcom laugh tracks during conversations, even in empty spaces.
- The Soap Opera Shift: Players reenact scenes from the signal’s broadcasts, with scripted lines and actions.
- The Product That Doesn’t Exist: A commercial compels a resident to build or sell a nonsensical item.
- The Uncanny Broadcast: A news anchor appears on every screen, reading out the characters’ secrets.
- The Repetition Effect: Players relive the same scene repeatedly, each iteration growing more distorted.
Collaboration and Mystery

Encourage players to work together to piece together clues, but introduce conflicting memories and perspectives to create tension. The truth should remain ambiguous, with players shaping its interpretation through their actions.

Gameplay Toolkit

This is a toolkit to help you craft a surreal, Lynchian experience in Wavelength. It includes templates for the town’s evolution, pacing advice, key events, escalating exposure scenes, and sample NPCs. Use this to guide the play through the town’s eerie descent into the unknown.

Templates for Wavelength’s Evolution

Wavelength begins as a nostalgic, picturesque town, but as the Static’s influence grows, it fractures into a surreal nightmare. Use the following phases to structure its progression.

Phase 1: Postcard Perfection
- Tone: Idyllic and welcoming with subtle undercurrents of unease.
- Environment: Pristine sidewalks, smiling neighbors, cheerful radio hosts.
- Signal Presence: Minor and eerie, like brief ads with strange phrasing, static interruptions.
- NPC Behavior: Friendly but slightly off, as if reading from a script.
Event Examples:
- A TV plays an old soap opera where one character eerily resembles a player.
- A commercial for a product the players owned as children plays on every screen in a diner.
- An NPC starts speaking only in television and radio quotes.
Phase 2: Fractured Reality
- Tone: The charm cracks; paranoia grows.
- Environment: Familiar locations subtly shift, streets curve impossibly, clocks show contradictory times.
- Signal Presence: More pervasive, NPCs speak in advertising jingles or reenact full scenes from TV.
- NPC Behavior: Neighbors act erratically, forgetting recent events or treating strangers as family.
Event Examples:
- A pedestrian repeatedly crosses the same intersection in different outfits.
- A weather report describes exact player actions happening as it airs.
- Reality’s color become over-saturated and everyone is dressed like a 50s sitcom.
Phase 3: Full Static Takeover
- Tone: The town becomes a surreal, shifting maze.
- Environment: Familiar landmarks melt into distorted landscapes, streets loop infinitely, diners stretch into hallways.
- Signal Presence: Ubiquitous, broadcasts directly interact with players and reshape reality.
- NPC Behavior: Most NPCs behave like TV archetypes, repeating lines or freezing when not “on screen.”
Event Examples:
- A sitcom laugh track loudly plays during a tense argument.
- An anchorperson on every screen reveals players’ private thoughts.
- The “channel changes” and the scene abrupt shifts completely in location, action, and tone.
Pacing Advice
- Establish Normalcy: Spend time grounding players in Wavelength’s initial perfection. Let them connect with NPCs and locations to make later distortions more impactful.
- Introduce the Signal Gradually: Begin with brief, eerie phenomena before escalating into more overt reality distortions.
- Create Interludes: Allow quiet moments between scenes for players to process changes, strategize, and rewrite their characters if desired.
- Escalate Tension Slowly: Build unease steadily, reserving major distortions for climactic scenes or critical narrative beats.
Key Events

Intersperse events like these throughout the campaign to maintain momentum:
- The First Broadcast: A character hears their name in a commercial or sees an unsettling reflection on TV.
- The Looping Scene: A day or interaction repeats with small, chilling changes each time.
- The Uncanny Anchor: A news anchor delivers a message addressed directly to the players, predicting their actions.
- NPC Vanishing: A well-known NPC disappears, replaced by a scripted replica or a memory gap no one else notices.
- The Static Ritual: TVs across Wavelength broadcast a synchronized, incomprehensible ceremony.
Escalating Exposure Scenes

Use these examples to reflect the growing influence of the Static and its effects on characters.

Minor Exposure
- Hearing one’s own voice on the radio, finishing sentences the player hasn’t said yet.
- A flickering TV shows a childhood memory in grainy black-and-white.
- Static floods a nearby screen when a player approaches.
Moderate Exposure
- A commercial plays, tailored to a player’s fear or desire, offering cryptic advice.
- A player’s reflection on a blank TV begins mimicking their inner thoughts.
- An NPC freezes mid-sentence, then resumes, as if nothing happened.
Major Exposure
- The signal addresses a player directly, calling them by name or revealing secrets.
- Time loops, forcing players to repeat actions while the environment changes around them.
- The characters find themselves in a TV show set, complete with laugh tracks and canned applause.
Sample NPCs

Populate Wavelength with eerie, Lynchian characters who evolve alongside the town. Examples:

Donna Whitfield, the Diner Waitress

Donna is cheerful, chatty, and knows everyone’s name and favorite dish, even visitors who’ve just arrived in Wavelength. She seems to embody small-town hospitality, always smiling and ready with a pot of coffee. As the signal spreads, her behavior grows increasingly unsettling: she begins repeating phrases verbatim from old sitcoms, her expressions freezing into unnatural, static smiles. When players interact with her late at night, she might serve invisible (but real) food or speak in voices that clearly aren’t hers, like a television switching channels mid-sentence.

Mr. Stanton, the Radio Host

With his warm, folksy voice, Mr. Stanton is a constant presence in Wavelength. His AM radio show is equal parts town gossip, classic hits, and quirky commentary, making him beloved by locals. However, as the signal intensifies, his broadcasts take a darker turn. He begins sharing cryptic messages that seem meant specifically for the players, warning them of dangers, revealing their secrets, or hinting at the signal’s origin. Occasionally, his voice is overlaid with static, or the broadcast cuts to chilling advertisements for products that don’t exist. By the time the players uncover more about him, they may realize that no one has ever actually seen Mr. Stanton in person.

Hank and Betty Rosewood, the Retirees

The Rosewoods are Wavelength’s quintessential elderly couple: inseparable, amiable, and endlessly curious about others’ lives. They love hosting impromptu garden parties and sharing stories of their travels (despite never leaving town). As the signal grows, the couple becomes increasingly surreal, sometimes speaking in perfect unison or finishing each other’s sentences with eerie precision. Eventually, the players may discover them standing in their living room, completely motionless, as if frozen mid-conversation. Later still, they might encounter them as life-sized mannequins, their features disturbingly lifelike. If “activated” by the signal, they resume speaking, but their dialogue loops unnervingly, repeating old conversations.

Mrs. Lindley, the School Librarian

Strict but kind-hearted, Mrs. Lindley always seems to be shelving books when the players enter. As the Static grows, the books in her library start whispering secrets, and she begins to speak in riddles, referencing events that haven’t yet occurred, or that never will. Eventually, she seems to vanish, leaving the library eerily empty, yet somehow always open. However, anyone making too much noise or disrespecting the space will be hushed by a disembodied voice, or worse.

Caleb Fischer, the Town Drifter

A quiet man with a perpetual cigarette and a knack for appearing wherever he’s least expected. Caleb knows things he shouldn’t and shares cryptic warnings that feel more like prophecies. As the signal intensifies, Caleb begins to glitch, flickering like an old TV image or speaking in overlapping voices. Eventually he begins to randomly appear and disappear in places, a full staticky flickering image of a man who increasingly ceases to resemble the original Caleb.

Kelly-Ann Fletcher, the Realtor

Bright and relentlessly optimistic, Kelly-Ann insists Wavelength is the perfect place to live. She tirelessly promotes homes, even those now clearly abandoned or inexplicably distorted. Over time, her “For Sale” signs start appearing in impossible places (inside locked rooms, floating in midair), and her smile grows unsettlingly wide, as if stretched beyond human capability. She begins to promise “brand new homes” available in “The Hidden Vistas”, with home viewers vanishing with Ms. Fletcher promising with 100 voices of a choir they’re “forever happy in their forever home”.

Clarifying Endgame Options

The endgame of Wavelength is deliberately ambiguous, allowing the GM and players to shape the resolution collaboratively. Here are four possible outcomes, each with variations, to inspire meaningful choices while maintaining the surreal tone.

Escaping Wavelength

The players discover a way to leave the town, severing their connection to the signal. However, escape comes with heavy consequences:
- Memory Price: To leave, the players must give up key aspects of their identities, such as memories of loved ones, their professions, or even their Natures. They will need to abandon all their loved ones and any chance of recovering their true self.
- Reality Divergence: Upon escaping, players realize the world outside Wavelength is subtly wrong: unrecognizable landmarks, altered history, or loved ones who claim the players never existed.
- Lingering Static: The signal has permanently marked them, manifesting in small, surreal glitches in their lives. They might see brief flashes of Wavelength on their TVs or hear its broadcasts late at night.
Confronting the Signal

The players pursue the source of the signal, uncovering its true nature. This ending offers closure, or deeper mystery. Possible natures of the broadcast to discover and confront:
- Government Experiment: A covert project designed to manipulate reality via media went out of control.
- Sentient Broadcast: The signal is alive, seeking to reshape the world in its image.
- Forbidden Family Ritual: The signal stems from an ancient, familial pact to preserve Wavelength at the cost of its residents’ humanity.
- The Incomprehensible: The signal is a manifestation of reality’s underlying fragility or some unknowable Thing From Beyond, offering no clear answers.
The Choice:
- Shut It Down: Attempt to destroy the signal, but at the cost of their own existence or trapping others in the process.
- Fuse With It: Embrace the signal, merging with it to become its new stewards, spreading its influence further.
- Compromise: Negotiate with the signal to stabilize Wavelength, but allow its continued existence at the edges of reality.
Embracing Transformation

The players give in to the signal, allowing it to fully rewrite them and their environment.
- Sublime Union: The characters become one with the signal, losing their original identities but gaining a surreal, godlike understanding of reality.
- Wavelength Rewritten: The town stabilizes under the signal’s control, transformed into a surreal utopia or dystopia.
- Sacrifice for Others: The players stay behind, fully consumed by the signal, but in doing so, they protect the rest of the world from its spread.
Bodhisattva Vow

The players discover their true original identities and a way to escape Wavelength, but instead, they choose to remain in the town to awaken and free others from the Static’s grip. This choice comes with significant consequences:
- Self-Sacrifice: The players give up their chance to escape, staying behind to help those trapped by the signal. Their own identities and memories begin to erode further as they fight to free others, risking becoming part of the Static forever.
- Transformative Struggle: As they try to awaken others, they face increasing distortions to their reality and personal selves, potentially losing their original essence in the process.
- Lingering Hope: Despite the risks, their actions might lead to moments of clarity or breakthroughs, where some residents momentarily escape the signal’s control, but at the cost of their own stability.
Additional Guidance for GMs

Establish early on what motivates each character to engage with the signal (finding a loved one, escaping Wavelength, or uncovering the truth). Use these motivations to shape the endgame conflicts.

Introduce dilemmas that force players to weigh personal goals against collective outcomes. For example, escaping may require sacrificing an NPC who is too deeply tied to the signal.

Keep the truth about the signal flexible until late in the campaign. Allow players’ theories and actions to shape the final reveal.

Offer answers that resolve immediate questions but introduce new mysteries. For example, players might destroy a device broadcasting the signal but find evidence of a second, more sinister source.

Encourage players to discuss their goals and weigh the consequences of their choices as a group. Use interludes to highlight individual transformations and their impact on the team.

Present multiple paths in the final session, but make it clear that every choice carries irreversible consequences.

The endgame should feel surreal and emotionally charged. Use shifting environments, cryptic NPCs, and nonlinear events to heighten the tension. Allow scenes to loop, merge, or collapse into chaos as the signal reaches its peak, creating a dreamlike sense of inevitability.

The endgame of Wavelength is less about providing closure and more about forcing players to grapple with transformation, sacrifice, and ambiguity. Regardless of the chosen ending, leave enough unanswered questions for players to linger on the experience long after the final scene fades to static.

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January 18, 2025
In Defense of Optional Rules
This entry is part 1 of 3 in the series TTRPG Defenses
Expanding, Not Complicating, the RPG Experience

Optional rules and alternative subsystems often find themselves at the center of heated debates in the tabletop RPG community. Some call them unnecessary fluff, others claim they confuse players, and a vocal few see them as evidence of flawed design. But are these critiques really fair? Or are they missing something important?

Optional rules aren’t there to drown games in needless complexity or make things harder to play. They’re about possibility. They open doors, not just for tweaking mechanics but for crafting an experience that feels unique to your group. Whether it’s empowering storytellers to deepen immersion or letting players shape gameplay around their preferences, optional rules are more than just extras… they’re bridges to new ideas and richer experiences.

In this article, we’re going to challenge the common criticisms of optional rules and unpack their true value. Whether you’re a veteran GM or a total newcomer, understanding how optional rules work and what they bring to the table can shift your perspective, and maybe even elevate your game. Let’s dive in and explore why these often-misunderstood elements are the unsung heroes of tabletop RPGs.

Complexity as a Feature, Not a Bug

Optional rules often get dismissed as making things unnecessarily complicated. But complexity isn’t inherently bad! In fact, when handled well, it’s one of a game’s greatest strengths. Optional rules can add layers to the experience, offering groups a chance to explore nuanced decision-making, dive into intricate mechanics, or build out richer storylines. They’re not about piling on confusion; they’re about creating depth where it’s wanted.

The beauty of optional rules is that they’re just that: optional. You’re not forced to engage with them. They sit patiently on the sidelines, ready to be brought into play when your group feels ready for more. For new players, the core rules offer a solid, approachable foundation. As familiarity grows, optional rules become a way to explore new dimensions of the game, adding layers of strategy or storytelling that align with the group’s evolving interests.

This gradual evolution is where optional rules shine. They let the game grow with the group, adapting to your needs and preferences. They don’t just provide a framework for more advanced play; they let you craft an experience that feels like it was built for your table.

The real magic of optional rules comes from their adaptability. Whether it’s introducing a new combat mechanic for more tactical depth or adding a subsystem to track emotional relationships, these rules give you the tools to refine the game as you go. It’s not about overwhelming players, it’s about letting the game unfold in a way that feels natural and rewarding.

A Few Tips: Optional Rules Without Overwhelming

Adding optional rules can feel like walking a tightrope for a lot of gamers. After all, you want to enrich the experience, not drown it in complexity. Here are some tips to introduce them in a way that enhances the game without overwhelming anyone at the table:
- Start Small: Begin with the core rules, especially when playing with new or less experienced players. Let the group master the basics first, then layer in optional rules. They’re there to complement, not overshadow, the foundation of play.
- Explain the Why: When introducing an optional rule, take a moment to explain its purpose. How does it make the game better? Why is it relevant to the story or gameplay? A clear explanation can help players see the value and get excited about the new addition.
- Take It One Rule at a Time: Don’t overwhelm the group with a flood of new rules. Instead, add one at a time and let it settle. This gradual approach keeps things accessible and gives everyone a chance to adapt before moving on to more changes.
- Experiment Before Committing: Optional rules aren’t permanent. Treat them like trial runs; test them in a single session to see how they feel. If they work, great! If not, you can refine or discard them without disrupting the game.
- Prioritize Flow: Optional rules should enhance the experience, not drag it down. If a rule constantly interrupts the game or overcomplicates decisions, it may need tweaking or setting aside altogether. Always prioritize a smooth, engaging play experience.
The secret to integrating optional rules is intention. When added thoughtfully and gradually, they can make the game feel more dynamic, exciting, and personal without overwhelming anyone.

Balance Through Adaptation

Critics often argue that optional rules disrupt balance, introducing chaos into a carefully designed system. But balance in tabletop RPGs is rarely a one-size-fits-all concept. Instead, it’s about harmony, aligning the mechanics with the playstyle and preferences of the group. Optional rules shine because they offer the flexibility to adapt the game to what feels right for each table.

For some groups, balance means streamlined mechanics and fast-paced action. For others, it might involve intricate systems for tactical combat or narrative immersion. Optional rules allow groups to adjust the experience to suit their needs, offering just enough complexity to enhance the game without tipping the scales too far. A well-designed optional rule doesn’t undermine fairness. It enhances it by giving players and GMs the tools to tailor the game to their specific playstyle.

Rather than creating imbalance, optional rules help groups find their own equilibrium. As players grow more familiar with the game, they can selectively introduce new layers of complexity or nuance in ways that feel organic and rewarding. In this sense, the rules evolve alongside the group, ensuring the game remains engaging and fresh without feeling overwhelming.

Ultimately, optional rules aren’t about imposing changes, they’re about offering possibilities. By introducing these elements carefully and thoughtfully, you can strike a balance that feels just right for your table, making the game more dynamic and enjoyable for everyone.

Flexibility Over Fragmentation

A common concern about optional rules in tabletop RPGs is that they might create inconsistency between groups. If every table uses a different mix of rules, won’t the game feel fragmented? While this worry is understandable, it overlooks the core strength of optional rules: flexibility, not fragmentation.

Optional rules are designed to celebrate the diversity of playstyles that make tabletop RPGs so special. Every group is unique, and what works well for one table might not fit another. These rules empower Game Masters (GMs) and players to shape the game to suit their preferences, enhancing the experience instead of limiting it.

Rather than splintering the game, optional rules offer modular tools for customization. They sit alongside the core rules, which remain a consistent foundation for all tables. Whether a group gravitates toward tactical depth, narrative richness, or simplified mechanics, optional rules provide the flexibility to fine-tune the experience while maintaining the integrity of the game’s core.

Far from fragmenting the game, these optional rules unify the experience. They make RPGs more inclusive by allowing groups to tailor the game to their own style, without being bound to a single, rigid “official” approach. When implemented thoughtfully, optional rules serve as a bridge fostering creativity, collaboration, and player engagement without disrupting the game’s core structure.

Calibrating Options To Fit Your Table

Adding optional rules is not just about increasing complexity; it’s about aligning the game with the specific goals and preferences of your group. When introducing these mechanics, think about what you want to achieve and how they can enhance your group’s experience.

Enhancing Player Agency

If your goal is to give players more control over the story, consider adding mechanics that empower them to make impactful decisions. Systems that track character goals, influence world events, or allow players to shape key narrative elements can amplify their sense of agency. Start with simpler mechanics and gradually introduce more complexity as the group becomes comfortable with the new rules.

Deepening Emotional Stakes

Optional rules can also be used to intensify emotional engagement. Mechanics that emphasize relationships, trust, or alliances can deepen the roleplaying experience without overwhelming players. Introduce these rules gradually, linking them naturally to the unfolding narrative. When they emerge in response to character actions and story developments, they feel like an organic part of the experience, rather than an unnecessary complication.

Adapting to Tone and Genre

One of the most powerful aspects of optional rules is their ability to adapt the game to suit a particular tone or genre. A survival mechanic in a horror game, for example, can heighten tension and make every decision feel critical. In contrast, a complex social system might amplify the intrigue in a political drama, giving players new ways to shape the world around them. The key is to select optional rules that align with your group’s desired experience, ensuring that they enhance the story and match the game’s tone.

By introducing optional rules with intention, you are not fragmenting the experience, you are refining it. These rules act as tools that help align the game’s mechanics with your group’s style, creating a dynamic and personalized experience.

Deepening Immersion, Not Breaking It

Some critics argue that adding layers of optional rules risks pulling players out of the narrative, breaking immersion with mechanical distractions. But this perspective overlooks the potential of well-selected optional systems to actually enhance immersion.

Take, for example, a survival mechanic in a horror game. Rather than pulling players out of the story, it increases the tension, making every choice feel critical. Similarly, in a political drama, a detailed social system can deepen roleplay, offering players meaningful ways to influence the world and their relationships. These mechanics don’t derail the narrative; they highlight the aspects of the game that are most important to the group.

Optional rules shine when they complement the game’s tone and genre. Tailoring mechanics to fit the story helps ensure they feel like a natural extension of the narrative, rather than an unwanted distraction. Since these rules are optional, groups have the freedom to select only the systems that enhance their experience, whether it’s managing resources in a survival campaign or deepening character relationships in a story-heavy drama.

When used thoughtfully, optional rules don’t break immersion; they deepen it. They offer players new ways to engage with the world, strengthen their emotional connection to the story, and make the unfolding events feel more personal and meaningful.

Flexibility in Rule Application

In previous sections, we’ve explored how optional rules can enrich the game and boost flexibility. However, there’s another important layer of flexibility often overlooked: the adaptability of the players themselves. Many players naturally modify even core rules to better fit their group’s needs, and this adaptability is one of the true strengths of tabletop RPGs. It’s also why optional rules are not nearly as disruptive as some critics suggest.

The reality is that players often treat even core rules as optional, adjusting them to match their group’s playstyle. This is especially common in games with more complex rule sets, like Burning Wheel or Vampire: The Masquerade. In Burning Wheel, for example, some groups simplify or omit certain mechanics to maintain the game’s pace or to better align with their preferred style of play. Likewise, in Vampire and other World of Darkness games, combat rules are frequently streamlined to focus more on the narrative and less on the mechanical intricacies.

This is not a flaw; quite the opposite! It’s a testament to the inherent flexibility of TTRPGs. These games are not rigid systems; they are flexible, evolving experiences that players and GMs shape together. When groups adjust even the core rules, they treat the system like a toolkit, just like they would with optional rules. This reinforces the idea that TTRPGs thrive on flexibility, and even foundational rules can be reshaped to fit the needs of the group.

So, when critics argue that optional rules disrupt the flow or imbalance a game, they overlook this essential truth: the beauty of TTRPGs lies in their adaptability. If players are already modifying core mechanics to suit their preferences, why should optional rules be any different?

This leads us to a deeper understanding of optional rules: they’re just one more tool in the expansive, flexible world of TTRPGs. Far from complicating things, they serve to enhance the experience, allowing groups to tailor the game to their desires.

The True Strength of Optional Rules

At the heart of tabletop RPGs is collaborative storytelling. Players and GMs work together to create narratives, explore new worlds, and engage in complex stories. The magic of this experience lies in choice, the ability to adapt the game to suit the group’s unique preferences and playstyles. Optional rules are the key to this tailored experience, providing a toolkit for customization, growth, and creativity.

Optional rules give groups the freedom to evolve the game organically, adding complexity or depth as desired, without overwhelming new players or disrupting the core gameplay. This flexibility is not just a feature of TTRPGs; it’s a fundamental strength. It encourages experimentation, making the game richer and more personal. It allows each group to leave its unique mark on the game, creating something truly special and tailored.

Instead of viewing optional rules as a threat to the game’s balance or integrity, we should embrace them for what they truly are: an invitation to explore, innovate, and customize. By offering a range of options without imposing a specific set of rules, they empower players to shape the game in ways that matter to them. But they also explicitly create no requirements; as optional rules, they can be freely ignored if you want. This is the essence of roleplaying, taking a system and creating your own experience.

In the end, optional rules embody the spirit of tabletop RPGs: freedom, creativity, and adaptability. They are not obstacles or sources of unnecessary complexity; they are bridges to more immersive, customized experiences. TTRPGs are not static systems; they are dynamic, living worlds that evolve with the people who engage with them. So, when critics claim that optional rules are disruptive or unnecessary, it’s important to remember that these rules provide extra room for the game to grow, adapt, and thrive.

By embracing optional rules, we embrace what makes TTRPGs so unique: the freedom to craft an experience that’s as dynamic and personal as the players themselves. Optional rules are not just tools! They are opportunities to create truly unforgettable stories. It’s up to us to make the most of them.

What do you think about optional rules and house rules? How do you adapt games for your table? What are some of your favorite optional rules and house rule revisions? Leave a comment below or come scream at Rev about his silly ideas over on Bluesky.

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January 6, 2025
Rebuttals to Criticisms of Rules-Heavy TTRPGs
This entry is part 2 of 3 in the series TTRPG Defenses
Also be sure to check out the contrasting defense of rules lite games!

Why Complexity Isn’t a Flaw

Defending Depth, Structure, and the Joy of Mastery

Tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs) offer a mix of creativity, strategy, and storytelling, but there’s often a rift between rules-light and rules-heavy systems. While the former are often celebrated for their simplicity, games like Pathfinder, Shadowrun, and Burning Wheel tend to get criticized for being too complex, with their intricate mechanics and steep learning curves. But here’s the catch: those so-called flaws are exactly what make these games so compelling.

For many players, the challenge of mastering these detailed systems becomes the most rewarding part of the game. It’s like solving a puzzle or climbing a challenging mountain, the sense of achievement from overcoming complexity is intrinsically satisfying. When we engage with rules-heavy systems, we tap into a deeper psychological drive: the desire for mastery. The process of learning and understanding these systems unlocks a level of joy that’s closely tied to human cognition. Just as we feel satisfaction in figuring out a complex game or learning a new skill, TTRPGs deliver that same intrinsic reward, but in the context of collaborative storytelling and character development.

Instead of viewing these detailed mechanics as obstacles, consider them tools, tools that open up deeper layers of strategy, creativity, and immersion. It’s not about adding friction for the sake of it; it’s about creating a rich, structured environment where players can stretch their imaginations, develop their characters, and feel the satisfaction of mastering the game’s world.

In this article, we’ll explore the criticisms that often get leveled at rules-heavy games, from fears about accessibility to worries about rigidity. But just as importantly, we’ll highlight the unique joys these systems offer, along with practical strategies for managing their complexity. Whether you’re a diehard fan of crunch or someone who’s been on the fence, join us as we dive into why rules-heavy games are more than worth the effort.

Complexity and Accessibility: A Gateway, Not a Barrier

When newcomers encounter a game like Dungeons & Dragons 4e, Burning Wheel, or Shadowrun, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the vast rulebooks and detailed mechanics. Complexity can feel like a wall that separates the casual player from the rich experiences these games promise. But here’s the thing: that complexity isn’t the problem, it’s the gateway. The challenge of mastering intricate rules isn’t a barrier; it’s what makes the eventual mastery so sweet.

This drive to conquer complexity taps directly into intrinsic motivation, a psychological principle that shows how humans gain satisfaction from overcoming challenges and developing new skills. Learning a complex game like Pathfinder isn’t just about understanding rules, it’s about unlocking a deeper level of personal achievement. When you master that spell system or tactical combat sequence, it’s not just about following the rules; it’s about owning the experience and feeling competent in the game world.

Additionally, complexity creates a psychological safety net for new players. It provides clear boundaries and guidance, eliminating much of the uncertainty that can make gaming stressful. When players understand the rules, they’re more likely to feel confident in their choices and actions. Rather than forcing players into rigid boxes, systems like Burning Wheel and D&D 4e provide structure that helps people explore within set parameters, offering both security and the freedom to be creative.

Easing People Into The Complexity

If you’re a GM introducing a rules-heavy game to new players, it’s can he helpful to start slow. A great way to ease into complexity is by running tutorial sessions. Start with simple mechanics like resolving skill checks or basic combat, and leave the more complicated elements for later. You can even break up complex systems into chunks, adding new rules gradually as the players become more comfortable.

In educational psychology, this is known as “scaffolding,” which (in this context) is the process of giving learners manageable pieces of information and building on that knowledge over time. It’s an approach that works wonders at the tabletop too. For example, a GM might follow the example of video game tutorials and introduce a specific mechanic (like spellcasting) only when it becomes relevant to the story, making the learning curve feel more like a natural progression rather than an intimidating leap.

With a thoughtful approach, the complexity of rules-heavy systems becomes less daunting and more rewarding. Players can eventually look at the rulebook and see it as a map to guide them, rather than an overwhelming maze. And with that, we can dive into how these systems impact the flow and pacing of the game.

Slowed Gameplay: A Deliberate Pace for Richer Experiences

Slow gameplay often gets a bad rap in rules-heavy systems. Longer turns, intricate calculations, and drawn-out discussions can make the game feel like it’s dragging. But what if we reframed “slow” as “deliberate”? Games like Cyberpunk and Burning Wheel benefit from a slower pace because it allows for tactical depth and immersive moments. When gameplay is paced thoughtfully, it creates space for rich decision-making and a deeper connection with the story.

Just like savoring a gourmet meal instead of inhaling fast food, a slower pace allows players to really dig into the experience. When players can take their time, they are more likely to experience that “flow” state, the psychological condition where time seems to fly by because they are fully immersed in the task at hand. Whether it’s an intense negotiation or a tense battle, slowing down allows players to fully engage with the game, enjoying every moment and feeling every choice.

Moreover, this deliberate pace reduces ambiguity in decision-making. Systems like Cyberpunk or Pathfinder offer detailed rules that help GMs make consistent, predictable decisions. This clarity makes everyone feel like the game world is fair and reliable, which builds trust and enjoyment around the table.

Keeping Things Moving Smoothly

To help mitigate any frustration with the slower pace, GMs can introduce a few tools. Pre-session prep can reduce the need for constant rule-checking, and providing players with quick-reference guides or summaries can speed up gameplay significantly. Online tools, like automated character sheets or combat calculators, are great for handling mechanics without slowing down the action.

Additionally, share the load! By allowing players to track initiatives, handle minor NPC roles, or manage maps, GMs can keep the pace moving without having to micromanage every detail. It’s a team effort, and this collaborative dynamic makes the slower pace feel less like a drag and more like a shared experience.

A slow pace doesn’t have to mean a boring pace. It’s a chance to explore the world, make meaningful decisions, and build unforgettable moments. Now that we’ve seen how to keep things flowing, let’s talk about a common concern: whether the structure of rules-heavy games can stifle creativity.

Creativity Constraints: Boundaries That Spark Innovation

One of the most common criticisms of rules-heavy systems is that their detailed mechanics somehow stifle creativity. But here’s the truth: constraints breed innovation. Rather than limiting what players can do, the rules offer a framework that pushes creativity into new directions. A structured system encourages players to think critically and come up with inventive solutions, often in ways that wouldn’t emerge in a more free-form environment.

Psychologically, constraints spark problem-solving. In fact, research in creativity suggests that having boundaries forces individuals to think more creatively within those confines. Think about Shadowrun or Rifts, two iconic games known for their intricate systems and rich settings. Players aren’t restricted by the rules; they use them as tools to craft elaborate heists, intricate negotiations, and unpredictable plot twists. The rules give the players the building blocks, but the stories are theirs to create.

Many rules-heavy games also leave room for improvisation. Mechanics like D&D 5e’s Advantage/Disadvantage encourage the GM to adapt rules in ways that best serve the narrative, blending structured mechanics with flexible storytelling. This dynamic interplay gives players the space to stretch their creativity while still working within the system’s logic.

Encouraging Creativity Within Boundaries

If you want to foster creativity in a rules-heavy system, think about integrating more narrative tools. Let players contribute to the world-building process, define NPC motivations, or work together to shape the campaign. This collaborative approach creates a deeper investment in the game while preserving the complexity that makes the system so rewarding.

Also, celebrate the creative solutions players come up with. If someone uses a spell in an unexpected way or crafts a clever tactic, reward that creativity with in-game benefits like bonus XP or Inspiration Points. When players feel like their ingenuity is valued, they’ll continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible within the system.

Finally, keep flexibility in mind. Acknowledge that the GM’s role is to adapt the rules to fit the narrative. Emphasize that the system exists to support creativity, not suppress it. When players realize they can creatively bend the rules, they’ll approach the system with excitement, not frustration.

Prep Time and Similar Burdens on the GM

Yes, rules-heavy systems often require a greater investment of time upfront, but this preparation is far from a burden. In fact, for many Game Masters (GMs), the time spent setting up complex systems, fleshing out intricate worlds, and crafting layered stories is an intrinsic part of the fun. The process becomes like a puzzle in itself, offering a sense of mastery as you build a world that feels rich and lived-in. Every NPC, every location, every decision holds potential, and for those who thrive on this, it’s an incredibly fulfilling part of the experience.

This type of preparation taps into a human drive for problem-solving and mastery. The satisfaction of seeing your efforts come to life during gameplay is deeply rewarding. It’s like putting together a puzzle where every piece you fit into place is one step closer to a narrative masterpiece. Plus, with a wealth of tools available (such as pre-built modules, oracles and random charts, and collaborative world-building) GMs don’t have to go it alone. When players help design parts of the world or create their own characters’ backstories, it not only lightens the load but also fosters a deeper connection to the story. They’re not just playing in the world, they’re helping to shape it.

By embracing this preparatory work, GMs create a narrative that feels not just guided but earned, a story players can immerse themselves in and interact with on a profound level.

The Thrill of Decision-Making: Embracing Complexity Without the Stress

One of the most daunting aspects of rules-heavy systems is the sheer number of choices available. Analysis paralysis can set in, making even the simplest decision seem overwhelming. However, it’s important to recognize that the multitude of options is precisely what draws many players to these systems in the first place. Every choice presents a new opportunity to explore the full range of their character’s potential, whether it’s selecting the perfect feat, casting the right spell, or making a life-altering decision during a pivotal moment in the story. This sense of autonomy taps directly into a core psychological driver: self-determination.

In the realm of TTRPGs, the ability to make meaningful decisions enhances intrinsic motivation. And players feel more invested in a game when their actions directly influence the outcome of the story. For some, the sheer joy of optimization can be immensely satisfying. Crafting the perfect character build or navigating complex systems is akin to solving a puzzle. The pleasure comes from the challenge itself, the deeper understanding of the game’s mechanics, and the joy of refining and experimenting within a framework that rewards thoughtful engagement.

Easing Choice Paralysis

However, to keep analysis paralysis from bogging things down, a few adjustments can help. First, encourage players to prioritize narrative over mechanical optimization. Instead of asking, “What’s the best decision statistically?” ask, “What would your character do?” This helps shift the focus from pure mechanics to roleplaying, making decisions feel more intuitive. For new players, it can also be helpful to limit choices during character creation. Instead of throwing the entire compendium at them, offer a curated list of options that align with the campaign’s tone and setting. This makes it easier to focus on the fun of the game rather than getting lost in the weeds of every possible choice. Lastly, offering clear examples of how certain abilities or spells can be used creatively in combat or roleplay can guide players, giving them a sense of direction without overwhelming them with options.

Ultimately, while analysis paralysis is a valid concern, it’s just another part of the game’s rich texture. With a bit of framing and some guided support, players can enjoy the depth without feeling swamped by it. And once they get the hang of it, that sense of choice becomes part of the fun, driving them to explore their characters in new and exciting ways.

Rules Lawyering: Intellectual Fun, Not a Roadblock

The term “rules lawyering” often carries a negative connotation, but in reality, these moments of debate and discussion can be part of what makes rules-heavy games so engaging. When players and GMs get into the weeds of interpreting a rule or discussing its finer points, it’s often a sign of engagement. Far from derailing the experience, these debates reflect the deep investment players have in the system. The more they know about the rules, the more they understand the world in which they’re playing. These discussions help foster fairness and clarity in the game, ensuring that everyone is on the same page.

Psychologically, people can be deeply motivated by competence, the feeling that they’re mastering something. When players engage in rules debates, they’re showing their deep knowledge and understanding of the system. It’s a form of mastery, and this kind of intellectual engagement can feel deeply rewarding. But it’s also essential to keep these discussions from becoming disruptive. A clear structure, where the GM or table consensus has the final say, can help keep things moving smoothly.

When these moments do arise, it’s important to frame them as opportunities for collaborative problem-solving, not conflict. Shifting from “You’re wrong about that rule” to “Let’s figure this out together” turns the debate into a creative challenge, encouraging teamwork and a shared investment in the game.

Player Preferences: Finding Your Perfect System Match

At the heart of TTRPGs is an incredible diversity of systems. Just as some players gravitate toward strategy games and others toward freeform storytelling, so too do TTRPG players have different preferences. Rules-heavy systems appeal to those who find joy in complexity, strategy, and deep-world building, while rules-light systems attract those who prefer a more improvisational, narrative-driven experience. The psychology of flow plays a crucial role here, some players thrive in systems that allow them to get fully absorbed in a structured, challenging environment, while others prefer the freedom of simpler systems where the pace is quicker, and creativity flows without constraint.

This diversity in player preference is what makes the hobby so universally appealing. By allowing players to explore systems that resonate with their individual tastes, TTRPGs can forge strong, passionate communities. Players bond not only over their shared love of the game but over their shared mastery of the systems themselves. Whether you’re navigating the complexities of Shadowrun or telling an improvised tale with Index Card RPG, the joy of finding the right system for your group is undeniable.

For groups trying to balance different preferences, it’s often helpful to experiment with a variety of systems. Play a one-shot in a lighter game to introduce newcomers, then explore a more complex system when everyone feels comfortable. Having a session zero to discuss expectations and preferences for complexity and pacing ensures that everyone is aligned and excited about the journey ahead.

Embracing the Depths: Unlocking the True Joy of Rules-Heavy TTRPGs

In the world of TTRPGs, the beauty of rules-heavy systems lies in their inherent complexity. The intricate layers reward patience, strategic thinking, and collaboration. For those who thrive on mastering systems, these games offer a level of satisfaction that simpler, rules-light games often can’t match. Every tactical decision, every character choice, and every interaction within the structured framework opens new avenues for discovery, creativity, and storytelling. The joy of mastering intricate mechanics, optimizing strategies, and navigating complex systems is a unique satisfaction that can’t be replicated elsewhere.

While these systems may seem daunting at first, they ultimately provide a deeply engaging, fulfilling experience. The initial challenges, from preparation to decision-making, only enhance the journey, transforming what could be obstacles into opportunities for growth. Whether you’re a seasoned GM or a newcomer to the hobby, the key to unlocking these rewards is embracing complexity with the right mindset. With thoughtful preparation, clear communication, and a flexible approach, rules-heavy games can unfold into rich, immersive worlds where players are free to explore, innovate, and create.

So, the next time someone questions the depth of a rules-heavy game, remember: complexity isn’t a hindrance, it’s an opportunity. An opportunity to dive into a world that challenges, rewards, and enriches your experience in ways simpler systems can’t. With the right tools and mindset, these games open the door to unforgettable adventures, deeper engagement, and stories that feel truly earned.

What about you? Do you love to master the mechanics and embrace the challenge? Do you find joy in the depth, complexity, and collaboration that rules-heavy systems offer? How do you navigate the richness of rules-heavy games? Leave a comment below or come yell at Rev about it on Bluesky!

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January 2, 2025
Rebutting the Criticisms of Rules-Light Systems
This entry is part 3 of 3 in the series TTRPG Defenses
Also be sure to check out the contrasting defense of rules heavy systems!

A Case for Simplicity and Accessibility

Rules-light tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs) like Lasers & Feelings and Risus are often dismissed as overly simplistic, with critics claiming they shift too much work onto Game Masters (GMs) and fail to provide the structure needed for satisfying gameplay. But what if the very traits being criticized are actually the keys to their success?

Humans are natural storytellers. From improvised games of make-believe to spontaneous party games, we thrive on simple frameworks that let creativity flourish. Rules-light systems tap into this innate ability, offering a flexible canvas for narrative-driven play. The simplicity isn’t a flaw, it’s a feature designed to empower players and GMs alike by stripping away unnecessary complexity.

Rather than burdening GMs, these systems reduce cognitive load, eliminate hours of prep, and invite everyone at the table to share in shaping the story. Let’s explore why these games are not only manageable but liberating, and why many criticisms stem from assumptions rooted in traditional TTRPG design.

Reducing Cognitive Load: Why Simplicity Eases the Burden on GMs

Critics of rules-light systems often argue that they force GMs to make constant rulings and interpretations, potentially leading to decision fatigue. However, this overlooks the key benefit of simplicity: reduced cognitive load. Rules-light games like Lasers & Feelings and Risus free the GM from the complexity of stat blocks, modifiers, and intricate mechanics, allowing them to focus on the creative aspects of storytelling.

Streamlined Mechanics

Traditional systems demand GMs juggle stat blocks and detailed combat mechanics. In contrast, rules-light systems simplify these elements, focusing only on the essentials. For instance, an NPC or encounter might be reduced to a single descriptive phrase or a basic die roll, removing the need for exhaustive preparation. This reduced complexity allows the GM to make decisions more quickly and intuitively, freeing up mental space for creativity.

Natural Adaptability

Humans are naturally inclined toward storytelling and improvisation. In rules-light games, GMs rely on their natural creativity rather than memorizing rules. This taps into the brain’s inherent ability to make quick, adaptive decisions based on mental schemas, facilitating smoother gameplay. With less rule-based friction, GMs can focus on the narrative and character-driven moments, which are key to engaging players.

To enhance this natural adaptability, many GMs use tools like random generators, templates, oracles, or pre-prepared prompts. For example, random event tables or NPC generators can provide quick inspiration during gameplay, while narrative templates and answer oracles can guide story progression. Systems like Ironsworn or Motif integrate such tools directly into their design, offering structured ways to spark creativity without adding mechanical complexity. By equipping themselves with these aids, GMs can navigate ambiguity with confidence, ensuring that the story remains engaging and dynamic even when improvisation is required.

Tools For Bridging Gaps

While rules-light games rely on minimal mechanics, they don’t leave GMs without support. Many systems include optional guidelines or supplementary resources to help handle ambiguity. For instance, Motif uses dice-driven prompts to guide narrative decisions, while Ironsworn employs oracle tables to fill in story gaps. Such tools reduce the pressure on GMs by providing a scaffold for improvisation, ensuring that decisions align with the game’s tone and direction.

By combining simplicity with these aids, rules-light systems empower GMs to focus on the flow of the game and the shared story rather than the minutiae of mechanics. Far from being a source of stress, minimal rules create an environment where flexibility and creativity thrive, supported by practical tools that keep the experience accessible and engaging.

Empowering GMs: Flexibility and Player-Driven Storytelling

Rules-light systems empower GMs by providing the freedom to adapt and respond to the story as it unfolds. Instead of sifting through rulebooks to resolve situations, GMs can make quick, intuitive decisions that are in harmony with the narrative.

No Need for Extensive Prep

In rules-light systems like Lasers & Feelings or Risus, GMs don’t need to create detailed stat blocks for every NPC or monster. A “villain” can be defined by a simple die rating or a core concept, which keeps the focus on their role in the story rather than the mechanics behind them. This approach reduces cognitive strain and prep time, allowing the GM to stay engaged with the story and react dynamically. With fewer spoons exhausted and more free mental processing space, GMs can devote more attention to the unfolding fiction at the table.

Player-Driven Worlds

By giving players more control over their characters and the world, rules-light systems create a collaborative narrative. This shared storytelling reduces the GM’s burden of having to manage every aspect of the game. Players, in turn, help shape the story with their actions and choices, making the narrative develop organically. This collaboration also taps into social psychological principles, like the need for agency and belonging, which helps keep everyone invested and engaged without overwhelming the GM.

Experienced Gamers May Misinterpret Rules-Light Systems

Rules-light systems are often seen as more challenging by experienced gamers because they bring preconceptions from traditional, rules-heavy systems. These assumptions can lead to unnecessary confusion and difficulty in adapting. However, these systems also offer unique opportunities for seasoned players to explore new dimensions of gameplay.

Preconceptions About Structure

Players and GMs accustomed to detailed, rigid frameworks may feel disoriented when those structures are absent. They might start overcomplicating the light mechanics, seeking “missing” rules that simply don’t exist. This reaction often stems from a reliance on the cognitive ease of structure, where having more rules feels like it provides certainty. In contrast, rules-light systems require a mindset shift toward embracing simplicity and creative interpretation.

Adapting to Flexibility

For many, the lack of defined mechanics for every scenario can feel uncomfortable. However, it’s this very flexibility that makes rules-light games accessible, especially for newer players and GMs. Once the mental switch is made, GMs can focus on dynamic storytelling instead of rigid rules, and players are encouraged to engage more creatively. Psychological studies show that people adapt faster to environments where they can exercise more control, which is why rules-light and simple narrative-driven systems often feel more fluid and enjoyable once the initial hurdle is overcome.

Rules-Light as a Creative Break

For experienced players, rules-light games can serve as a refreshing departure from the mechanical complexity of traditional systems. These games allow players and GMs to shift their focus from rules mastery to experimental storytelling, encouraging new ways to engage with the narrative. For instance, a group that typically plays detailed systems like Dungeons & Dragons or Pathfinder might use a rules-light game like Fate Accelerated Edition or Index Card RPG for a one-shot adventure centered on character development or improvisational storytelling.

Tips for Moving From Heavier to Lighter Games

For players accustomed to heavier mechanics, transitioning to rules-light systems can be smoother with a few adjustments:
- Incorporate Optional Add-Ons: Many rules-light games, such as Fate, provide optional rules or modular expansions that add layers of complexity without undermining the system’s simplicity.
- House Rule Tailoring: Groups can create or adapt house rules to address specific needs or preferences. For example, adding a light resource management mechanic or a more structured initiative system can help bridge the gap for players who crave a bit more structure.
- Experiment with Short Campaigns: Start with shorter or standalone adventures to ease into the rules-light mindset. This lowers the stakes while giving players a chance to adjust to the new style.
By approaching rules-light systems with flexibility and an experimental spirit, experienced gamers can unlock their potential as tools for both creative expression and narrative exploration.

Accessibility for Newcomers and GMs

One of the biggest advantages of rules-light systems is their ability to welcome newcomers, making tabletop role-playing games more accessible than ever before.

Ease of Learning

Games like Risus are ideal for beginners because they don’t require players or GMs to memorize complex rules. With minimal mechanics to keep track of, everyone can focus on the storytelling and their roles within the game. This simplicity reduces the cognitive load on new players, allowing them to engage with the game without feeling overwhelmed. Additionally, newcomers can quickly understand how their actions translate into the game world, fostering a smoother learning curve and allowing for more immersive play.

Social and Psychological Benefits

Rules-light systems tap into our natural inclination for storytelling and playacting, which reduces the fear of “getting it wrong”. Players don’t have to worry about following exact rule interpretations or memorizing every detail. Instead, they can lean into creative decision-making and collaboration, which makes the experience less intimidating. Psychology shows that when people are given freedom to act and create in social settings, they experience lower levels of anxiety and more positive social engagement. This is why rules-light systems help players (especially new ones) feel more confident in their decisions, making them more likely to dive into the narrative and build the story together.

Addressing the “Burden on the GM” Critique

Critics often argue that rules-light games shift too much of the workload onto the GM, but this critique overlooks a crucial point: complex systems typically place a much heavier burden on GMs, requiring significant time and effort for preparation and rule adjudication. What’s often ignored in this discussion is how rules-light systems can support not only one-shots but also deep, long-term campaigns that engage players just as effectively as their rules-heavy counterparts.

Rules-Heavy Games Demand More Prep

In traditional, rules-heavy games, GMs can easily spend hours prepping for a single session. They have to craft detailed encounters, create stat blocks for every NPC or monster, and plan for a variety of contingencies. Rules-light systems, by contrast, eliminate much of this burden. With only a few core mechanics and flexible guidelines, GMs can improvise and adapt in real-time, saving time and mental energy.

This flexibility doesn’t come at the expense of depth. Systems like Fate Accelerated Edition demonstrate that minimal mechanics can still support long-term campaigns by encouraging collaborative worldbuilding, story arcs, and meaningful character development. The focus often shifts to narrative prompts and emergent storylines, allowing the players and GM to co-create evolving arcs. This approach reduces the need for extensive stat tracking while still delivering the kind of rich, layered stories associated with longer campaigns.

Freedom to Be Creative

Rather than constraining GMs with rigid rules, the minimal structure in rules-light systems empowers them to be more creative. With fewer rules to keep track of, GMs have the freedom to guide the story organically, responding to player actions and the evolving narrative. This fluidity allows for spontaneous storytelling and lets GMs make decisions based on the context of the moment, rather than trying to adhere to pre-established rules or mechanics.

For campaigns, this creativity can translate into the development of recurring villains, shifting alliances, or thematic story arcs, all without the need for complex mechanics. For example, GMs in Fate Accelerated Edition can deepen the gameplay by using simple “Aspects” and “Fate Points” to represent evolving character motivations or world changes. This means the focus remains on the story’s progression, rather than the mechanical grind of advancement.

Embracing the Light: Tips for GMs and Players

Transitioning to rules-light systems can be a refreshing change for both Game Masters (GMs) and players, offering a more flexible and narrative-driven experience. To facilitate this transition, consider the following strategies:

Interpreting Ambiguous Rules

Rules-light systems often leave room for interpretation, which can be both liberating and challenging. To navigate this:
- Establish Table-Specific Guidelines: Before gameplay, discuss and agree upon how to handle common scenarios. This consensus ensures consistency and reduces confusion during sessions. For instance, decide how to resolve contested actions or handle unexpected player choices.
- Embrace Flexibility: Understand that ambiguity is a feature, not a flaw. Use it as an opportunity to enhance creativity and adapt the game to the group’s preferences.
Encouraging Collaborative Decision-Making

Sharing the responsibility of rulings can enrich the gaming experience:
- Involve Players in Adjudication: When uncertain situations arise, involve players in the decision-making process. This collaborative approach fosters a sense of ownership and investment in the story.
- Promote Open Communication: Encourage players to voice their interpretations and suggestions. This dialogue can lead to innovative solutions and a more dynamic narrative.
Utilizing Supplements to Aid Improvisation

While rules-light systems are designed for flexibility, certain tools can enhance the experience:
- Random Generators: Utilize game tools that generate NPCs, plot hooks, or encounters, or provide answers to questions. These can serve as inspiration during sessions.
- Templates and Charts: Prepare templates for common scenarios (e.g., combat, social interactions) and charts for random events or outcomes. These resources can streamline gameplay and reduce decision fatigue.
- Prebuilt Story Seeds: Have a collection of story hooks or plot outlines ready to introduce new arcs or challenges, ensuring the narrative remains engaging.
By implementing these strategies, GMs and players can effectively embrace the flexibility of rules-light systems, leading to a more enjoyable and collaborative tabletop role-playing experience.

Long-Term Campaigns in Rules-Light Systems

Critics often argue that rules-light systems lack the depth necessary for sustaining long-term campaigns. However, many such systems are designed to support extended play by emphasizing narrative progression over mechanical complexity.

Story Progression Over Mechanical Advancement

In rules-light games, character and campaign development are driven by the evolving narrative rather than intricate mechanics. This approach allows for deep character arcs, complex storylines, and rich world-building without the need for extensive rules. For instance, in Fate Accelerated Edition, character Aspects and the use of Fate Points facilitate significant growth and change through storytelling choices, enabling campaigns to develop organically over time.

Optional Layers of Complexity for Campaigns

Some rules-light systems offer optional rules or modular expansions to add depth for longer campaigns. For example, Into the Odd provides straightforward mechanics but can be expanded with additional content to introduce more complexity as needed. Similarly, Knave is designed to be minimalist yet allows for the incorporation of more detailed rules to suit the preferences of the gaming group. These flexible frameworks enable groups to tailor the game to their desired level of complexity, supporting sustained engagement over extended play.

Narrative Tools to Maintain Engagement

To keep long-term campaigns engaging, GMs can employ various narrative techniques that supplement the minimalist rules:
- Recurring NPCs: Introducing characters who appear throughout the campaign can create a sense of continuity and deepen the story. Their evolving relationships with the player characters add layers to the narrative.
- Thematic Arcs: Developing overarching themes or story arcs provides direction and purpose, encouraging players to invest in the long-term progression of the campaign.
- Player-Driven Plots: Allowing players to influence the direction of the story fosters a collaborative environment where their choices have meaningful impacts, enhancing engagement.
By focusing on these narrative elements, rules-light systems can facilitate rich, immersive experiences that are sustainable over long-term play. The flexibility inherent in these systems allows for adaptability and creativity, ensuring that both players and GMs remain engaged throughout the campaign.

Recognizing Challenges and Limitations

Vital Caveat: It is important to recognize that the flexibility of rules-light systems can be daunting for some GMs and players. The lack of rigid structures or comprehensive mechanics might leave newer or less confident participants feeling uncertain about how to proceed. Ambiguity in rules can lead to decision paralysis for the GM or disagreements among players about how to resolve certain situations.

For those accustomed to the guidance of more detailed systems, adapting to the open-ended nature of rules-light play may require a significant mindset shift. These challenges, while real, can also be opportunities for creativity and growth. Rules-light systems encourage problem-solving, collaboration, and improvisation, which can be highly rewarding for those willing to embrace the learning curve.

It’s important to note that no TTRPG system or preference is universally “better” than others. Preferences vary based on playstyles, group dynamics, and the goals of the campaign. For those who thrive on structured mechanics, rules-heavy systems may feel like a better fit. Meanwhile, for groups seeking spontaneity and shared storytelling, rules-light games offer a unique and engaging alternative. Ultimately, the best system is the one that resonates with your table’s needs and enhances your collective experience.

Rules-Light Games Are a Feature, Not a Flaw

Rules-light systems are not a limitation! They are a gateway to more creative, fluid, and engaging tabletop role-playing. By stripping away unnecessary complexity, these systems free GMs and players from the burdens of rule-checking and number-crunching, allowing them to dive directly into the heart of the story.

For GMs, this means less time spent on preparation and more time spent crafting memorable, player-driven narratives. And for campaigns, the depth doesn’t have to come from more rules! It can emerge from rich character arcs, evolving storylines, and the natural interplay between players and the GM. Systems like Motif, Risus, Index Card RPG, Caltrop Core, and Fate Accelerated Edition exemplify how minimal mechanics can provide frameworks that support these deeper narratives without requiring extensive rulebooks.

Critics of rules-light games often misinterpret their simplicity as a weakness. The reality is that these systems empower GMs to adapt on the fly, lean into their improvisational skills, and foster collaboration. There’s no need to adhere to rigid frameworks or preordained scenarios. Rules-light games thrive on spontaneity, player-driven decisions, and creative problem-solving, making them easier to run for many (including many newcomers), not harder.

In fact, the real challenge for players and GMs alike is unlearning the assumptions carried over from traditional, more detailed systems. Once you let go of the need for complex systems and embrace the power of simplicity, you’ll discover that less really can be more: more freedom, more creativity, and more meaningful stories. Whether for one-shots or long-term campaigns, rules-light systems are an opportunity for fun, flexibility, and adventure.

What’s your experience with rules-light systems? Do they enhance your gameplay, or do you prefer the depth of traditional systems? Share your thoughts and let’s discuss! Comment below or come yell at Rev about it on Bluesky!

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December 30, 2024
RPG Idea: Hard Road Ahead
This entry is part 3 of 4 in the series Free Games
Something I may never complete. Inspired to share this from my slush pile by my post about Ghibli-inspired games. Putting this out there for anyone else to finish, if they want. Fully open license, public domain. Use as you will.

Hard Road Ahead

A two-player micro-RPG inspired by the darker elements of Studio Ghibli.

Overview

One player takes the role of The Young Person, someone desperately striving to save a loved one who will die without their help. The other plays The World That Is, a callous, indifferent force that cares only for the endless cycles of life, death, and the laws of the universe. Together, you will tell a story of hardship, fleeting hope, and the cruel beauty of persistence.

What You Need
- 6-sided dice (d6), at least three.
- Paper and pen for tracking progress.
- A quiet space to reflect and tell your story.
Setup
1. The Young Person names their loved one and describes why they must save them. Define the relationship and what makes this bond vital.
2. The World That Is describes the setting: is it a crumbling city, a storm-lashed forest, or a war-torn countryside? Frame the narrative tone.
3. Both players collaboratively decide on the loved one’s three essential needs:
  - Medicine to treat or prevent sickness. What treatment do they need?
  - Food to stave off starvation. What kind of allergies and other food issues must you avoid?
  - Clothes to protect against deprivation. What is needed for the season, weather, and terrain?
4. Draw two trackers:
  - Young Person’s Needs: Hunger, Exposure, and Exhaustion, each starting at 0.
  - Loved One’s Needs: Sickness, Starvation, and Deprivation, each starting at 0.
How to Play

The story unfolds across at least five quests that The Young Person must pass to gather the resources their loved one needs. Each quest is an encounter, framed by The World That Is, which presents as (roll a d6):
- 1-2, A Social Trap: An overprotective guardian, a deceptive merchant, or others with conflicting goals.
- 3-4, A Task: Delivering messages, retrieving a lost item, or fulfilling a troubling request.
- 5-6, Internal Struggles: Phantoms or hallucinations of doubt and despair.
For each quest, the conditions available in the quest may offer a chance to reduce negative conditions for the player and there are two possible outcomes:
- Pass: The Young Person earns a vital item (Medicine, Food, or Clothes) and/or a step of relief for their own Needs.
- Fail: The World That Is offers a deus ex machina escape at a steep cost: an increase of 1 in either Sickness, Starvation, or Deprivation for the loved one, as well as usually an increase of one of the young person’s Needs.
Mechanics
1. Encounter Timers: Each encounter is resolved in three rolls or less, symbolizing the limited time available. The timer reflects urgency, a collapsing bridge, approaching danger, or window of opportunity closing.
2. Rolling for Progress: The Young Person rolls 1d6 per action. Actions must align with their described approach to the challenge. They may choose to accept 1 negative track for +2 dice. Once per encounter, you may also pick one of your loved one’s Needs and roll twice as many extra dice as the track is at. But if you take a cost (partial success or failure), it adds +1 to one of their other Needs tracks in addition to the young person’s. However, if you succeed, reduce the loved one’s Need used by 1. Possible results:
  - 6: Overwhelming success.
  - 4-5: Partial progress; the player may advance but at a cost, such as 1 Hunger, Exposure, or Exhaustion.
  - 1-3: Failure; no progress and +1 to one of the young person’s Need tracks.
3. Tracking Needs: Needs can be alleviated to some degree by the encounters, such as eating at a strange festival to reduce Hunger or taking shelter with that witch for a while to reduce Exposure. When any of The Young Person’s Needs (Hunger, Exposure, or Exhaustion) reaches 5, they collapse, lost to the indifferent world. The game ends with tragedy, as they are discovered dying by their (probably also soon to perish) loved one.
4. Loved One’s Condition: Failures during encounters add to the loved one’s Sickness, Starvation, or Deprivation. They cannot be alleviated under they are reached by the Young Person. However much Medicine, Food, and Clothing they have reduces Sickness, Starvation, and Deprivation that much. If the game ends with any higher than 1, or 1 in all, their future is ambiguous. 1 or 0 in all, except for all 1s, they go on to be well. When any of these reach 3, the loved one succumbs before The Young Person can reach them. The story ends in sorrow.
5. Winning the Game: If The Young Person successfully passes at least five quests and delivers at least 1 Medicine, Food, or Clothes, they reach their loved one in time, saving them (at least for now) from death. Note the loved one’s condition to judge their epilogue. And the journey’s toll remains, leaving scars and questions about what was lost to succeed.
Example Encounter

The World That Is: “You step briefly inside a well-maintained old cottage and suddenly an old woman blocks your way. Her house is warm, filled with food, and she offers you shelter. But she insists you stay and never leave. Her smile is kind, but her grip on your arm is iron the moment you step anywhere near the doors or windows.”

The Young Person: “At first I may have no choice, so I will rest a while and eat a bit to put her at ease.”

The World That Is: “The old woman seems happy that you accept so easily. She presents course after course of food, then covers you with a blanket as you rest afterward in a deep comfortable chair, reducing both your Hunger and Exhaustion by 1.”

The Young Person: “When she settles down herself, that is my chance. I will try to distract her by singing a lullaby to make her sleepy.”

Successful Quest

The young person rolls a 4, a partial success with a cost. The old woman’s eyes droop, but she shakes her head and her gaze remains fixed on them. They also take 1 Exhaustion as they sing a lullaby but resist the urge to sleep. Continuing to sing, they make a second roll. The old woman finally nods off, lulled to sleep by the soft melody. The Young Person gathers food and escapes, having some time while the woman sleeps so both reducing their Hunger by 1 and earning 1 Food for their loved one.

Failed Quest

The young person rolls a 2, a failure. The song is off-tune as the old woman eyes them suspiciously and remains perfectly alert as she sips her tea. The awkward tension is draining and adds +1 to Exhaustion.

The Young Person: “I see this isn’t working. I’m going to try making increasingly bothersome requests to see if I can get her away long enough to slip out.”

The young person groans as they roll a 3, another failure. They ask for different blankets, pillows, obscure snacks, and the whole lot of it but she never has to leave the room to accommodate the young person. The whole process is so tiring and adds another +1 to Exhaustion. Their Exhaustion is creeping very high and they decide to not risk any further action.

The Young Person: “If I can, I’m going to accept that there is no escape for now and rest to recover a bit before the other shoe drops.”

The World That Is: “You may remove one of those Exhaustions you gained. As you fitfully nap, you are rudely awakened being pushed out of the chair. The old woman is screaming at you about some request you made while half-asleep. As far as you can tell it was for some kind of cookie or snack, but she is taking it as a deadly insult. You are thrown out of the house in the middle of a storm, gaining 1 Exposure. Reflecting the plenty that you’re leaving behind, your loved one’s Starvation goes up by 1.”

Themes of Reflection

After each quest, The Young Person pauses for a moment of introspection. The player must describe what keeps them going despite the rising toll and stress, while The World That Is narrates how the environment reacts: indifferent stars, whispering winds, or the cold indifference of a collapsing society.

Conclusion

Hard Road Ahead is not about triumph or comfort but persistence against the odds. It captures the heartache, fleeting beauty, and relentless hardships that echo the darker undertones of Studio Ghibli’s masterpieces, while also mixing in non-traditional conflicts and whimsical encounters to reflect the other side of the inspiration. Will you make it in time, or will the world’s callousness win?

Have you hacked this into a more complete game? Are you incorporating some of these ideas into your own game? Or have you even tried giving this raw/mini version a try? Please, shout at me on Bluesky about it.

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December 17, 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
Genre Emulation and Buy-In in TTRPGs
This entry is part 2 of 5 in the series RPG Theory
Suspension of Disbelief and Buy-In as Core Elements

Tabletop roleplaying games (TTRPGs) thrive on a delicate balance of imagination, mechanics, and collaboration. Suspension of disbelief and buy-in are foundational to this balance, but they’re often treated as secondary considerations, in contrast to how films, literature, and other art forms intuitively incorporate them. By recognizing their importance and treating them as explicit design elements, TTRPGs can more effectively immerse players in their worlds.

Over the years, the hobby has made great strides in genre emulation, yet much of it still leans toward high-level abstraction or meta-thinking. This can create a gap between the broader narrative tools provided and the grounded, intuitive moments that draw players into the story. Other art forms frequently operate on an instinctual level, drawing audiences in before deeper analysis takes over. By embracing these “low-level” approaches alongside the high-level, TTRPGs can foster richer and more immediate player experiences.

Shared Creative Agreement

Suspension of disbelief and buy-in form the mutual creative agreement between players that allows a game to come alive. They enable everyone at the table to accept the game’s internal logic, even when mechanics momentarily interrupt the narrative flow. This interplay mirrors other art forms: just as audiences accept a musical breaking into song or a fantasy novel’s improbable magic system, TTRPG players embrace dice rolls and abstract mechanics as long as they fit the narrative’s framework.

For instance, rolling to pick a lock might seem mechanical, but a well-framed description (sweat on the character’s brow, the subtle click of tumblers) transforms it into a cinematic moment. When designers and players consciously weave these framing elements into their games, the abstractions feel purposeful, even immersive. This mutual understanding strengthens collaborative storytelling, creating a more cohesive and rewarding experience for everyone at the table.

Embracing Genre Buy-In in the Arts

Storytelling in literature and film offers a wealth of inspiration for TTRPGs. In novels, genre is often signaled through tone and setting, shaping readers’ expectations without explicit instruction. A locked-room mystery instantly primes readers for clues and twists, while a dystopian sci-fi world immerses them in its bleak futurism through evocative details.

Film, too, thrives on intuitive genre signaling. A horror movie doesn’t need to explain that a dark, creaking house is dangerous; eerie music and shadowy corridors do the work. These subtle cues prompt audiences to lean into the experience, aligning their expectations with the narrative’s internal logic.

TTRPGs can harness these same principles. For example, a cyberpunk game might include neon-lit imagery, mechanics for hacking, and slang-filled prompts to immerse players in its gritty, high-tech world. At the table, GMs and players contribute by narrating in ways that align with the genre’s tone, whether it’s the desperate stakes of noir or the swashbuckling camaraderie of heroic fantasy. By consciously embedding genre elements into both design and play, TTRPGs can create intuitive, immersive experiences that rival their literary and cinematic counterparts.

High-Level and Low-Level Approaches in Genre Emulation

One of the greatest challenges in TTRPG design is balancing abstract, high-level tools with the immediate, visceral impact of low-level mechanics. High-level systems, like those found in Fate or Apocalypse World, offer broad frameworks for emulating genre. These systems encourage players to interpret moves or outcomes based on the story’s context, trusting their genre familiarity to shape the experience.

In contrast, low-level mechanics embed genre directly into gameplay. Horror games excel at this: Call of Cthulhu’s sanity meter creates a creeping sense of dread, while Dread’s Jenga tower delivers tangible, escalating tension. These mechanics require little explanation. They work instinctively, aligning players with the game’s emotional core. Striking the right balance between these approaches allows for both flexibility and immersion, catering to new players and veterans alike.

The Power of Framing

Framing is the linchpin that binds a TTRPG’s mechanics, narrative, and player buy-in. How a game presents its rules, themes, and world shapes the lens through which players engage. Consider Blades in the Dark: its mechanics for resource management mirror the desperation of its criminal protagonists, encouraging players to think like their characters. This alignment of narrative and mechanics ensures that even gamey elements feel thematically grounded.

Session zero is another powerful tool for framing. By collaboratively establishing boundaries, themes, and expectations, players create a shared understanding of the game’s tone. This collective agreement not only builds trust but also primes players for immersion, ensuring that their suspension of disbelief aligns with the game’s intended experience.

Good framing also acknowledges potential dissonance. A game with heavy themes but overly simplistic mechanics risks breaking immersion unless it explicitly addresses the gap. Thoughtful design that integrates mechanics into storytelling can mitigate these risks, creating a cohesive, harmonious experience that keeps players engaged.

Toward More Immersive and Reflective Design

TTRPGs have only begun to scratch the surface of what’s possible with genre emulation and immersion. By explicitly designing for suspension of disbelief and buy-in, games can better align mechanics and narrative, reducing the need for meta-thinking and encouraging deeper engagement. Emphasizing intuitive, genre-informed mechanics and strong framing practices can elevate the medium, making it more accessible and resonant.

What do you think? Are suspension of disbelief and buy-in given enough attention in TTRPGs? Come yell at us on Bluesky about it!

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December 16, 2024
TTRPG Mechanics Model: Granularity, Modularity, Connectivity, Fidelity
This entry is part 3 of 5 in the series RPG Theory
Understanding TTRPG Design Through Four Overlapping Scales

When discussing tabletop RPGs, terms like “crunch” or “narrative focus” frequently arise. While useful, these discussions can become muddled, lacking a structured way to examine what makes each game unique. To frame this conversation, we can use a model of four overlapping scales: granularity, modularity, connectivity, and fidelity. Each of these represents a distinct axis of design, shaping how we experience and engage with games.

Let’s break down each scale and explore how they influence play.

1. Granularity (aka “Crunch”)

Granularity measures how detailed a game’s mechanics are. High-granularity systems, like GURPS or Pathfinder, offer intricate rules that cover a broad array of situations, from combat maneuvers to nuanced skill checks. On the other hand, low-granularity games like FATE or Lasers & Feelings simplify mechanics, focusing on streamlined gameplay. The level of granularity directly impacts pacing and player focus, influencing whether the experience feels like a tactical simulation or an improvisational story.
- High granularity: Provides clarity and structure but often slows down play with extensive rules. These systems excel when precision and fairness are crucial, such as in detailed simulations or competitive campaigns.
- Low granularity: Prioritizes narrative flow and accessibility, sacrificing precision for speed and creativity. Minimalist rules can empower players to improvise and lean into storytelling.
Granularity’s importance depends on player preferences. High granularity caters to those who enjoy mastering detailed mechanics or exploring tactical depth. Conversely, players seeking fast-paced, story-driven sessions might prefer the flexibility of low-granularity systems.

The interaction between granularity and other scales is key. For example, high granularity often pairs well with high fidelity when realism is a goal, as in games like Call of Cthulhu. However, it might clash with high connectivity when detailed mechanics interfere with narrative immersion.

2. Modularity

Modularity examines whether a game’s mechanics can function independently or integrate additional subsystems without disrupting the core rules. While modular games excel in flexibility and customizability, tightly integrated systems maintain consistency and reinforce their themes.
- High modularity: Games like Dungeons & Dragons thrive here, allowing the addition of feats, crafting systems, or optional rules without breaking the foundation. This adaptability has enabled D&D’s long-lasting popularity and its ability to support various playstyles and genres.
- Low modularity: Systems like Blades in the Dark or Apocalypse World have tightly integrated mechanics that are harder to separate or tweak without losing the intended experience. These games rely on focused systems that ensure every rule reinforces the theme.
High modularity supports flexibility and customization, enabling GMs and players to tailor the experience to their preferences. This is especially valuable in long-running campaigns or for groups with specific narrative or mechanical interests. In contrast, low modularity ensures a unified play experience where every rule contributes to the game’s thematic and narrative goals.

For example, a modular game like GURPS allows players to create entirely new genres or settings, while a low-modularity game like Blades in the Dark deeply intertwines its heist mechanics with its narrative, making it harder to adapt without losing its essence.

3. Connectivity

Connectivity refers to how closely the game’s mechanics link to its setting or story. High connectivity fosters immersion, embedding players deeply in the game world. However, low connectivity can allow the same system to support wildly different stories.
- High connectivity: Games like Apocalypse World tie their mechanics directly to narrative beats and thematic elements. Moves in these systems feel intrinsically tied to the world and its flavor, creating a strong sense of immersion.
- Low connectivity: Systems like Savage Worlds or GURPS use universal mechanics designed to adapt across genres, settings, or styles. Their flexibility allows for a wide variety of stories but can result in a less immersive experience.
Mechanics in high connectivity games are designed to evoke the tone, mood, and flavor of the setting. Conversely, low-connectivity systems prioritize flexibility, enabling creators to use the same mechanics across multiple genres and settings.

An excellent example of high connectivity is Call of Cthulhu, where the Sanity system deeply reflects its themes of cosmic horror. In contrast, Savage Worlds or GURPS offers flexibility, allowing players to jump from pulp adventure to hard science fiction without needing entirely new rules.

Call of Cthulhu and Pendragon (also from Chaosium) also reflect an interesting intersection: low connectivity systems can be developed into high connectivity games. BRP is a generic roleplaying system that both use. However, their implementations are high connectivity with the way Sanity is integrated in CoC and the way morality is directly tied into the mechanics for Pendragon.

4. Fidelity

Fidelity measures how well a game’s rules express its core genre or themes. High fidelity creates genre-rich experiences but may alienate those unfamiliar with its style. Low fidelity broadens accessibility, making it easier to approach but sometimes losing specific thematic weight.
- High fidelity: A game like Call of Cthulhu uses its Sanity mechanics to evoke the horror of cosmic dread, weaving the theme into every aspect of play.
- Low fidelity: Systems with generic mechanics, such as FATE, prioritize versatility over thematic depth. While these games can be tailored to fit many genres, they may not evoke specific moods as strongly as high-fidelity systems.
High fidelity creates genre-rich experiences but may alienate those unfamiliar with its style or unwilling to embrace its thematic focus. Low fidelity broadens accessibility, allowing games to be more flexible and replayable across genres.

The impact of fidelity on play can be profound. A high-fidelity game like Cthulhu Dark leverages simplicity to heighten its horror themes, while a low-fidelity system like FATE allows players to create settings and genres tailored to their specific desires, at the expense of specific thematic resonance.

Clarity: Distinguishing Connectivity and Fidelity

Connectivity and fidelity are closely related with some overlap, but are nevertheless distinct aspects of TTRPG design. Connectivity is focused on how mechanics push the narrative forward, how they shape and influence the story. Games with high connectivity, like Apocalypse World, have mechanics that tie directly to the development of the story and its characters, driving the narrative momentum.

Fidelity, however, is about how well a game’s mechanics represent its core genre or theme. High-fidelity games, such as Blades in the Dark, reinforce the setting’s dark, gritty nature through mechanics like stress and trauma, which emphasize the risks and emotional weight of the game’s actions. Morality and corruption mechanics are also often high fidelity, but also quite often only drive the narrative forward by their interpreted consequences and future play rather than a direct high connectivity narrative mechanic (Vampire: The Masquerade presents a good example).

Fidelity isn’t just about advancing the story; it’s about enhancing the mood and emotional engagement with the genre or game concept itself. The key difference is that while connectivity is about narrative flow and how the mechanics influence the direction of the story, fidelity is about how deeply the mechanics immerse players in the themes and atmosphere of the setting.

Why These Scales Matter

Each game balances these scales differently, creating unique experiences for players and GMs. For example:
- A gritty cyberpunk game might lean heavily into high granularity, high connectivity, and high fidelity to emphasize its dystopian tone.
- A pulpy adventure game might favor modularity and low granularity for fast-paced, action-packed play.
Games that deliberately subvert these scales often create surprising or innovative experiences. For instance:
- A modular, low-fidelity system like early D&D used in a thematic setting like Dragonlance.
- A rules-lite, high-fidelity system like Cthulhu Dark, where simplicity reinforces the core horror theme.
By recognizing how these scales interact, designers and players can make intentional choices that suit their desired play experience. Balancing granularity, modularity, connectivity, and fidelity allows for rich, varied TTRPG experiences that cater to diverse preferences and playstyles.

What do you think about this model? How do you see these factors? Poke us on Bluesky and let us know!

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December 14, 2024
Immersion and Authoring in TTRPGs
This entry is part 4 of 5 in the series RPG Theory
Immersion and Authoring: Two Pillars of TTRPG Playstyles

When exploring RPG mechanics and playstyles, two concepts frequently come to mind: immersion and authoring. These approaches are central to how we experience and create stories, yet they lead to profoundly different player experiences. Understanding their nuances can deepen appreciation for tabletop role-playing games and help both players and game masters refine their craft. Let’s dive into these ideas and how they shape the way we play.

What is Immersion in TTRPGs?

Immersion is all about being present in the game world. It’s the feeling of stepping into your character’s shoes, seeing through their eyes, and reacting instinctively to their circumstances. This playstyle emphasizes an almost method-actor-like approach to gameplay. The goal is to lose oneself in the character’s experiences.
- It’s visceral and emotional, pulling players into the moment-to-moment experiences of their characters.
- A deeply immersive scene might involve feeling your heart race during a tense negotiation or aching with loss after a companion’s betrayal.
Think of immersion as an actor completely inhabiting their role, their decisions flowing naturally from the character’s perspective. For example, in a dangerous dungeon crawl, an immersive player might worry about their dwindling torchlight not because of the mechanics, but because their character would feel that same anxiety. Immersion prioritizes instinct over meta-thinking, pushing players to engage deeply with the fiction and their character’s emotional world.

The key strength of immersion lies in its ability to create intense personal connections to the story. However, this focus on “in-the-moment” play can occasionally lead to tension if other players or the game master adopt a more meta or narrative-driven approach. Still, for those who thrive on emotional and visceral role-playing, immersion offers a uniquely rewarding experience.

What is Authoring in TTRPGs?

Authoring, by contrast, is about crafting the broader narrative. This playstyle encourages players to take a step back, view the story as a whole, and make decisions based on dramatic or thematic impact. It’s an approach that treats the game as a shared storytelling canvas, where each decision is a brushstroke.
- It’s about asking, “What would make this moment more engaging or memorable for everyone?”
- For example, an authoring player in a negotiation scene might say, “What if I make a bold, unexpected offer to heighten tension?”
Authoring feels like being the director of a play, consciously shaping arcs and scenes for maximum impact. Instead of being solely concerned with their character’s perspective, authoring players consider the needs of the group and the story. For instance, they might create a rivalry with another character, not because it’s what their character would naturally do, but because it adds intrigue to the campaign.

The strength of authoring lies in its ability to elevate the shared narrative. Players using this approach often take the initiative to create dramatic moments, plot twists, or resolutions that enrich the story for everyone. However, its reliance on meta-awareness can sometimes clash with purely immersive playstyles, as the player’s focus on narrative structure might break the illusion of the game world.

Comparing Immersion and Authoring

These two approaches might seem at odds, but they complement each other in practice. Both styles bring unique strengths to the table:
- Immersion: Grounded in the immediate experience, it creates depth and emotional connection. Players driven by immersion feel the highs and lows of their character’s journey, fostering a sense of personal investment.
- Authoring: Focused on the larger picture, it enhances storytelling and group dynamics. By stepping outside their character’s perspective, authoring players ensure the story remains engaging and cohesive.
Despite their differences, the two styles are not mutually exclusive. Many players shift between these approaches depending on the scene, the system, or the group dynamics. For example, a player might immerse themselves in their character’s fear during a dangerous encounter but step back into an authoring role to suggest a flashback that deepens the story’s emotional stakes.

Ultimately, the interplay between immersion and authoring reflects the collaborative nature of TTRPGs. A group that respects and balances these styles can create a richer, more layered experience.

The Role of Game Mechanics

Different systems lean toward one approach or the other, often shaping the way players engage with the game.
- Immersion-heavy systems: Games like traditional Dungeons & Dragons or dungeon crawlers emphasize in-character decision-making, focusing on what the character knows or perceives in the moment. Mechanics like fog of war or hidden rolls reinforce this immediacy, keeping players in their characters’ perspectives.
- Authoring-heavy systems: Games like Blades in the Dark or Fiasco encourage players to think outside the character, prioritizing dramatic twists or collaborative storytelling. Tools like flashbacks, narrative control tokens, or scene-setting mechanics invite players to shape the story actively.
While some systems explicitly cater to one style, others blur the lines. For instance, Powered by the Apocalypse games often combine immersive character moves with mechanics that encourage authorial input, such as collaboratively building the setting or defining relationships. This blend allows players to seamlessly transition between immersion and authoring as the story demands.

Designing for Balance

For game designers, the challenge is in balancing these two playstyles. Striking this balance ensures that players with different preferences can coexist within the same game.
- Immersion-focused mechanics: could include hidden information, in-character roleplay prompts, or dice rolls that represent uncertainty. For example, a system that keeps the GM’s rolls private might enhance the player’s immersion by preserving the mystery.
- Authoring-focused mechanics: might involve meta-tools like flashbacks (Blades in the Dark) or explicit narrative framing (Fate). These tools give players direct control over the story’s direction, empowering them to craft memorable moments.
Games that successfully balance these elements, like Apocalypse World or Burning Wheel, allow players to explore both immediate character experiences and larger narrative arcs. Designers can also provide optional rules or modules that cater to different playstyles, letting groups customize the game to their preferences.

A Negotiation Scene Example

To see how these styles might play out in practice:
- An immersive player in a tense negotiation might focus solely on their character’s immediate goals: “My character would never accept that deal; they’d demand a better offer.”
- An authoring player might instead think about the drama of the moment: “What if I threaten to walk away? It could create a great turning point for our story.”
Both approaches enrich the game, but in different ways. Immersion creates an authentic, character-driven experience, while authoring ensures the scene has a compelling narrative structure. Together, they can transform a simple negotiation into a multilayered, unforgettable moment.

What’s Your Preference?

Are you someone who loves to feel the world through your character’s eyes, living in the moment and letting instincts guide your choices? Or do you lean toward shaping the story from a broader perspective, crafting dramatic arcs and unforgettable moments?

Maybe you’ve played games that cater to one extreme, or you’ve found a system that strikes the perfect balance. Share your experiences and thoughts in the comments. We’d love to hear how immersion and authoring shape your playstyle! Come yell at us on Bluesky about it!

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December 14, 2024