Free Christmas TTRPG: Holiday Anomalies Division (HAD)

This entry is part 1 of 3 in the series Free Games

Happy holidays! For the season, I’ve dug up another unfinished tabletop roleplaying game (TTRPG) from my slush pile to share with you all. Like others, it’s playable as-is. So have fun! And it’s released under a Creative Commons Attribution license, so feel free to hack away or even flat out flesh out and finish the game if you want!

Welcome to the Division, Merry Agent

The holidays are supposed to be magical, but when things go wrong, it’s up to the Holiday Anomalies Division (HAD) to restore balance. Whether it’s rogue magic, runaway cheer, or traditions gone haywire, HAD agents are on the front lines, armed with festive gadgets, quick thinking, and a healthy dose of improvisation.

In this game, you’ll face off against bizarre holiday crises, like out-of-control snowstorms, sentient ornaments, or time-warping New Year’s Eve balls. Your team of holiday protectors must use their wits, their gadgets, and each other to bring order to the chaos. Expect creative problem-solving, hilarious mishaps, and moments of unexpected brilliance as you save the season, one anomaly at a time.

Get ready for a wild ride filled with absurd challenges and holiday magic. The season’s chaos is just beginning… are you ready to step in and save it?

Core Gameplay

Mission Stages

Each mission unfolds in three stages, ensuring every scenario is packed with humor, action, and heartwarming resolutions:

Investigation: Explore the environment, gather clues, and piece together the source of the anomaly.
Example: “The local snow globe collection is projecting a blizzard into real life. Let’s interview the toy store owner and see what’s going on.”
Containment: Use your skills, gadgets, and creative thinking to stabilize or neutralize the anomaly. Expect to deploy wild plans, sometimes on the fly!
Example: “We’ll use the Christmas tree stand as a containment circle and trick the animated ornaments into it with carols.”
Aftermath: Wrap up any lingering consequences, smooth things over with the public, and report back to headquarters.
Example: “Well, we stopped the giant mutant gingerbread man, but now the city smells like burnt cookies. We might need an apology card.”

Stats and Motif Rolls

Stats

Each agent assigns values to their stats: 0, 1, and 2. These stats define your agent’s strengths:

Contain: For wrangling, neutralizing, or redirecting chaotic forces.
Connect: For negotiations, teamwork, or emotional appeals.
Improvise: For creating plans, blustering off the top of your head, or finding unexpected solutions.

Motif Roll System

Whenever agents take action, they describe their effort, ask about how they effort turns out, and roll 2d6:

Answer Die: The first die answers the question about your effort. Your relevant stat adds to this die.
- 1-3: No
- 4-6: Yes
Wrinkle Die: The second die adds a twist or extra flavor.
- 1-2: But
- 3-4: Plain answer
- 5-6: And

Example Outcomes

“Yes and” (6, 6): Your success snowballs into even greater outcomes, but it may get hilariously out of hand.
“No but” (3, 1): You fail, but something mitigates the consequences or sets you up for future success.
“Yes plain” (4, 3): A straightforward success, nothing fancy but it gets the job done.

Special Outcomes

Double 6s: Over-the-top success. You succeed so well that the action spirals into chaos in unexpected ways.
Double 1s: A catastrophic failure that introduces hilarious and humiliating consequences.

Interpreting Rolls

This is a game of chaotic fun and anarchic joy, even as the character strive to solve problems. Failures should not be punitive or simply stop the action. Failures and complications should introduce interesting consequences or simply move the story forward. There is intentionally no health system to this game. The results of actions and outcomes follow the fiction. Use common sense and the flow of the emerging story.

Chaos Meter

During the Investigation and Containment phases, the Chaos Meter tracks the growing instability of the anomaly, starting at 0 and maxing out at 10. Each failure (No result) adds 1 to the meter. If you roll a “No and” result, add an additional +1 (for a total gain of 2). The Chaos Meter resets to 0 at the start of each phase.

Escalating Chaos

Reduction: Successfully helping civilians escape danger or making significant steps toward containing or calming the situation reduces the meter by 1.
Weirdness Die: As the meter rises, the world becomes more bizarre:
- Chaos 3: Add a third Weirdness die to all actions to measure how surreal things are getting.
- Chaos 5: Add +1 to the Weirdness die rolls.
- Chaos 7: Add +2 to the Weirdness die rolls.
- Chaos 10: Crisis Peak! The situation reaches its boiling point, and the team must make a desperate attempt to resolve the chaos before it goes critical.

Weirdness Die

Rolled as a third die on actions when Chaos 3 is reached. Measures how the world bends under the strain of chaos as the characters act:

1: Normal and mundane.
2: Slightly odd or unusual.
3-4: Notably awkward or somewhat surreal.
5: Outright strange and surreal.
6: Reality is bleeding, expect total holiday mayhem.

Gadget Invention and Use

Creativity is key to resolving the holiday-themed anomalies, and agents can invent or tweak gadgets to aid in their missions.

Invention Rolls: When agents create new gadgets, they roll 2d6 with no modifiers. They use whatever random holiday items are on hand or around in the scene as the core of their invention.
Use Rolls: Using gadgets involves another 2d6 roll with no modifiers. The outcome is determined by the Motif system and failure could lead to hilarious malfunctions.

Example Invention

“I rigged this Rudolph-nose flashlight to repel candy cane bats. It works, more or less, except now it attracts sentient mistletoe!”

Example Use

“The snow globe containment device worked perfectly… until it started projecting disco lights into the blizzard.”

Holiday-Related Goals

Each agent has a personal holiday-related goal they’re working toward, perhaps a long-lost tradition, an unfulfilled wish, or simply a desire to make the season brighter. If it fits the situation, agents can rearrange their die after rolling to help achieve their goal.

Tone and Focus

This game is about embracing the chaos of the holidays with a heavy dose of humor, absurdity, and spontaneous creativity. Each mission is a wild ride, and players are encouraged to think outside the box, improvise, and roll with whatever unexpected twists come their way. The focus is on fun, the chaos of the holiday season, and keeping things light and entertaining.

Mission Variety

HAD deals with all sorts of absurd holiday crises, including but not limited to:

Recovery Missions: Retrieve or contain rogue holiday artifacts.
Containment Missions: Stabilize out-of-control magical events.
Negotiation Missions: Convince sentient holiday creatures to play nice.
Multi-Stage Anomalies: Tackle layered events, like a New Year’s ball countdown that creates a bubble of time and additional weird effects with each second counted.

Each mission should be treated like a holiday adventure, with bizarre problems and off-the-wall solutions that keep everyone laughing and on their toes.

Mission Loop: Building Your Holiday Adventure

The Mission Loop is the heartbeat of your holiday-themed adventures in Holiday Anomalies Division (HAD). Each mission unfolds in three key stages—Investigation, Containment, and Aftermath—ensuring that your game stays dynamic, fun, and full of surprises. In this section, we’ll guide you through how to create and run your missions, with advice on pacing, setting the scene, and a few tools to spark your creativity.

Investigation: Unravel the Mystery

The investigation phase is where your agents get to explore the weirdness surrounding the holiday anomaly. It’s time to gather clues, interview NPCs, and piece together what caused the problem in the first place. This is where the mystery unfolds and the tone is set.

Tips for Investigation

Setting the Scene: Introduce a holiday setting that’s been turned upside down. A toy store filled with rogue, talking ornaments. A Christmas market under siege by malfunctioning reindeer. Let your players discover how far things have gone awry.
What to Do: Encourage players to investigate with a mix of asking questions, gathering physical clues, and talking to quirky NPCs. They may need to use their “Connect” stat to get information from a nervous shopkeeper or “Improvise” to find hidden clues.
Rewards: If the player successfully uncover helpful information and/or the root cause of the problem, all of their first actions in the next phase gain +2 on both dice.
Consequences: If players fail too hard and too much, causing the Chaos Meter to rise too high to 10, reality completely melts down in a surreal dream-like scene. The fundamental cause or main responsible figure will be revealed. The character them suddenly find themselves waking up in res media in the Containment phase, with the Chaos Meter reset to 0.

Investigation Oracles

You can use some all flavor (or dice label) oracles to help fill things out and guide the investigation process.

Clue Shape

Visibility: How noticeable is the clue?
Condition: Is the clue in good shape?
Urgency: Does this clue feel pressing?

Clue Value

Importance: Is this clue significant?
Clarity: How easy is it to understand?
Connection: Does this point toward the source of the anomaly?

Clue Examination

Strangeness: How weird is the clue?
Reliability: How trustworthy is this clue?
Relevance: Does it relate directly to the anomaly?

Clue Result

Source: Does the clue have a clear origin?
Difficulty: How hard is it to piece together?
Direction: Does it lead to more clues?

Containment: Stabilize the Situation

Once your agents have gathered enough clues and identified the cause, it’s time to contain or neutralize the anomaly. This is where improvisation, creativity, and quick thinking come into play. Players will need to come up with wild plans, deploy gadgets, and sometimes use their holiday skills to stabilize the situation.

Tips for Containment

Setting the Scene: Now the stakes get high! The anomaly might be growing, so it’s important to make the environment feel tense. Maybe the snowstorm is getting bigger, or the rogue candy canes are multiplying by the minute.
What to Do: Players may need to work together to come up with a containment strategy, using their tools and talents. This could involve everything from singing a holiday song to calm down a rabid reindeer to using the Christmas tree stand to trap a rogue snow globe.
Rewards: If the players manage to solve the problem before the Chaos Meter caps out, the aftermath will be easier to manage. NPCs will be naturally more forgiving and understanding. The extant of damage or disruption will be less than it could have been. They should also gain a friendly NPC who is grateful for their help, who they may call upon for friendship or even assistance at times.
Consequences: The higher the Chaos Meter, the crazier and riskier the containment will be. At 10, the full power and strangeness of the event is unleashed and the characters must face a final showdown. The outcome will depend on their choice of actions and rolls, with no further chances.

Containment Oracles

Just like the Investigation phase, this phase also has some example oracles you can use to help flesh out and run the scenes.

First Impression

Control: How easy is it to take charge of the situation?
Strength: How powerful is the anomaly?
Stability: How stable is the environment?

Assessment

Speed: How fast is the anomaly growing?
Disruption: How much damage is the anomaly causing?
Intervention: How much can the agents intervene?

Planning

Clarity: How clear is the containment strategy?
Resources: How many resources are available for the plan?
Consequence: What happens if containment fails?

Contact With Reality

Duration: How long will it take to contain the anomaly?
Effectiveness: How well will the containment strategy work?
Risk: How risky is the plan?

Aftermath: The Clean-Up and Consequences

After the anomaly is contained, it’s time to wrap up. But the aftermath is never as simple as it seems! The town, city, or holiday environment still has to deal with the fallout of the situation, and your agents will have to make things right with the public and report back to headquarters.

Tips for Aftermath

Setting the Scene: The holiday chaos should have left some quirky consequences behind, even in the best outcomes. Maybe the town is now covered in frosting, or there’s a herd of sentient snowmen wandering the streets.
What to Do: This phase is about managing the fallout. Players will need to smooth things over with any panicked civilians, undo the effects of the anomaly, and maybe even deal with an unexpected twist (such as an apology tour or media frenzy). The phase should end with a debriefing and review back at headquarters.
Rewards: If the aftermath is handled especially well, the Department may offer minor helpers or a less unreliable gadget for use on the next mission. There is also a chance to avoid gaining enemies and develop alliances.
Consequences: If the Chaos Meter was high, things won’t be as easily fixed. Maybe there are lingering side effects, like an overabundance of holiday spirit that causes everything to turn ridiculously festive, or the return of an anomaly that wasn’t fully contained. If the phase is badly handled, the team may end up with some persistant enemies or bad PR.

Aftermath Oracles

There are also some example all flavor oracles using dice labels for this phase too! Use them to help introduce more surprise and round out details in play.

Simple Aftermath

Public Response: How well do the townsfolk feel about the team?
Holiday Spirit: How is the holiday mood affected?
Damage Control: How much effort is needed to fix the situation?

Alternate Aftermath

Civic Reaction: What’s the general mood of the crowd?
Long-Term Effects: What lasting impact does the anomaly have?
PR Recovery: How much does the team need to manage public relations?

Leftover Mess

Clean-Up Effort: How easy is it to restore order?
Media Frenzy: How does the media spin the event?
Community Impact: How is the community dealing with the aftermath?

Fallout

Reputation: How do the locals view the team post-mission?
Festive Echoes: How much does the anomaly affect holiday celebrations?
Side Effects: Are there any lingering issues?

Appendix: Using the All Flavor Oracles

You ask about how things are or turned out. Roll 3d6 for an answer. Assign the labels in order from left to right or closest to farthest. Each label is interpreted according to its plain meaning, as illustrated by the example question that the flavor answers. Follow the intuitive scale below, judging the weight of the label by how much the flavor comes through or how positive/negative the outcome is.

Scale

1: Absolute absence or the complete opposite; most negative response
2: Not at all or somewhat the contrary; clear negative response
3: Somewhat or slightly so; mildly negative response
4: Average or mediocre; slightly positive response
5: Above average or notably strong; strongly positive response
6: Peak or overwhelming; most positive response

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December 23, 2024

Great TTRPG Newbie Paradox (they’re easier to teach)

This entry is part 1 of 5 in the series RPG Theory

Novice TTRPG Players and Simple Guidance

One of the great paradoxes I’ve noticed in TTRPGs is that newer players don’t always need the extensive examples and explanations that seasoned gamers often request. It’s fascinating how the learning process can differ so much depending on experience level. While experienced players may want every detail laid out to navigate complex systems, novice players tend to do just fine with simpler, more straightforward instructions. So why is that?

To really understand why this is, we have to look at how cognitive psychology, gaming culture, and design philosophy come into play. New players are engaging with the game in a fresh way, while veterans approach things with a wealth of past experiences and mental models already in place. This combination of factors explains why simple rules can be so effective for new players, but also why they might leave veterans wanting more.

Cognitive Load Management

Starting out in TTRPGs can be overwhelming. New players are diving into an entirely new hobby, and everything is unfamiliar. From understanding the game’s goals to figuring out how to roleplay effectively, there’s a lot to take in. The key to helping them succeed is to reduce cognitive load, essentially not bombarding them with too much information at once. By simplifying what players need to process, you create a more approachable and enjoyable entry point.

That’s why simple, streamlined rules work so well. New players don’t need to memorize a bunch of rules upfront; they only need the basics to get started. Systems like Fate Accelerated or Lasers & Feelings are perfect for this! They’re rules-light, accessible, and let players focus on having fun without getting bogged down by details. These systems also encourage players to explore their creativity without the intimidation of complex mechanics, fostering a sense of accomplishment early on.

With cognitive load under control, players can dive into the game right away. Which itself enables more easily experiencing the game firsthand, which is often the most effective and engaging way for players to understand how it all fits together.

Learning Through Play

For new players, a good way to learn is often by diving in and engaging directly. Behavioral modeling plays a huge role here. Watching others navigate mechanics, solve problems, and roleplay their characters helps new players build an intuitive understanding of the game.

It’s one thing to read about how a skill check works; it’s another to see someone roll the dice and react in real time. Whether it’s observing how a seasoned GM handles a tricky situation or seeing another player bring their character to life, learning through example is incredibly effective.

This isn’t limited to group play, either. Even in solo roleplaying, the act of playing and reflecting on how it feels is a powerful teacher. Experimenting with the rules, testing out scenarios, and seeing what clicks provides valuable feedback that can’t be replicated by simply reading a manual. It’s all about learning through doing, which resonates deeply with how human psychology is wired.

At its core, experiential learning is the heart of this process. Picking up a new hobby or skill is all about practice, getting in there, trying things out, and gradually getting better. TTRPGs are uniquely suited to this, offering a mix of structure and flexibility that encourages players to jump in and learn as they go.

But what truly sets new players apart is their flexibility. Without years of preconceived notions or expectations, they often adapt more quickly to the rules and find creative ways to engage with the game. This adaptability is a powerful asset, allowing them to embrace simple guidance and make the most of the experience.

Adaptability

What’s amazing about new players is their adaptability. They haven’t been trained to expect certain complexities, and that’s a huge advantage. Without preconceived notions about how rules “should” work, they’re open to whatever the system throws at them. With fewer expectations, they can engage with simple rules without overthinking them, allowing for a more organic experience. This flexibility makes them more open to experimentation and less likely to get caught up in analysis paralysis over myriad options.

The Tabula Rasa effect is big here. Novices often approach rules with fresh eyes, making them open to experimentation. Conversely, experienced players may often compare rules to prior systems and/or hold certain assumptions. Graceful degradation is something newer players excel at as a result. Novices will often default to common sense and broad principles, as well as more often collapse to core rules. Seasoned gamers will look for more nuance, more often look for edge cases, and generally expect more direct guidance.

The Takeaway for Game Designers

For game designers, the lesson is clear: Keep things simple. New players thrive when they can engage with the game without getting overwhelmed by complex rules or excessive explanations. A system that emphasizes simplicity and encourages learning through play will help novices feel confident and enjoy their experience right from the start.

Experienced Players and the Need for Detailed Guidance

Complexity Preference

For seasoned players, simplicity can sometimes feel like a limitation. After years of playing more complex systems, many veterans crave the depth and nuance that come with detailed rules. They want to be able to dive deep into the mechanics, optimize characters, and explore all the strategic options available.

Systems like Pathfinder and Shadowrun thrive in this space. They offer a level of granularity and choice that challenges experienced players and rewards those who enjoy analyzing every aspect of the game. These systems activate analytical thinking, rewarding those who relish strategic complexity. They also often reward system mastery, which encourages a desire for deep rules understandings.

Desire for Comprehensive Understanding

Experienced players often seek clarity on edge cases and exceptions. They need detailed rules and examples to navigate these situations confidently. For them, the finer points of a system matter, especially when the game isn’t going according to the usual script. A system that provides clarity on the exceptions and intricacies helps them play with confidence, ensuring that no one gets stuck in a situation where they’re unsure of how to proceed.

The can also want clarity on edge cases and exceptions because these often define the boundaries of creativity within the game. Detailed examples allow experienced players to confidently navigate unusual scenarios, ensuring they can “play to the rules” without stalling gameplay. In addition, gamers accustomed to systems like Dungeons & Dragons may expect clear guidance for adjudicating specific situations. Understanding this prior experience is key for seasoned gamers.

Integration with Prior Knowledge

Veteran players come into a game with a wealth of experience, so they’re naturally comparing new systems to the ones they already know. They’ve built mental models (or “schemas”) of how TTRPGs “should” work, and if the new system doesn’t align with those expectations, it can cause confusion.

Discrepancies between these expectations and a new game’s mechanics can lead to frustration without sufficient explanation. A well-designed system can acknowledge this by providing clear explanations of how it differs from other games or being very clear about its own nuances. Without these distinctions, experienced players may feel lost or frustrated trying to figure out how things work.

Challenges with Simple Rules for Experienced Players

Overinterpretation

Experienced players often struggle with simple systems because they assume there’s more complexity hidden in the rules. When the system feels too straightforward, they begin to look for deeper meaning or “unspoken” rules. This overthinking can lead to confusion, especially when the simplicity they encounter doesn’t match their mental models.

Cognitive Rigidity

Another challenge is cognitive rigidity. Long-time TTRPG players can become so accustomed to the intricacies of complex systems or robust presentations that transitioning to something simpler or more direct can feel like a step backward. Research indicates that experts in any field can develop a rigidity that limits their ability to adapt to new frameworks; this same psychological principle applies to TTRPGs. This rigidity can make it hard to adapt to lighter systems and simpler explanations that don’t provide the same level of depth they’re used to.

Expectation of Depth

Veterans can expect games to offer rich, strategic gameplay. They are often come to anticipate a certain level of complexity in gameplay and/or detail in rulebooks. Simpler texts may seem “shallow” to them, leaving them unsatisfied. They can feel those lighter books are lacking the intricate balance or emergent possibilities of more robust frameworks and explanations.

Balancing Rule Presentation for Different Players

Layered Rulebooks

One way to meet the needs of both novice and experienced players is to present rules in layers. Start with the core mechanics, keep it simple and easy to digest. Then add deeper, optional rules for those who want them. This approach lets new players engage without feeling overwhelmed while still providing the depth that experienced players crave.

However, balancing this can be tricky. If the rules aren’t organized well, it can feel like you’re constantly flipping through pages to find the right information, which can be frustrating.

Integrated Examples

Including examples directly in the text helps everyone, regardless of experience level. Novices benefit from seeing the rules in action, and experienced players appreciate examples that clarify edge cases. The key here is to keep examples relevant to all types of players, showing how the rules can be applied in different contexts.

This requires a balance of keeping it simple and direct for new players, while providing the clarity and nuance more seasoned players crave. There is also the pressure to maintain the text flow and usefulness as a reference, favoring conciseness that may sacrifice some nuance or detail.

Encouraging Exploration

Another way to bridge the gap between new and experienced players is by encouraging creativity within a structured system. Games that offer flexibility while still keeping things clear and simple can appeal to both groups. Designing systems that promote creativity within clear boundaries can engage both new and seasoned players, accommodating different preferences for complexity.

Systems like Powered by the Apocalypse do this well. New players get to co-create the story alongside the GM, while veteran players can still engage with the rules in a deeper, strategic way. It’s the best of both worlds.

A Few Final Thoughts

The Role of Player Psychology

The psychology of TTRPG players varies greatly. New players are often more risk-tolerant and excited to explore, while experienced players regularly seek mastery and optimization. These different approaches to the game highlight the importance of balancing rules in a way that caters to both. The more we understand these tendencies, the better we can design games that speak to a wider audience.

The Evolution of TTRPG Culture

TTRPGs have evolved a lot over the years, with indie games gaining traction and traditional systems like Dungeons & Dragons continuing to thrive. This diversity in gaming culture means that players bring different expectations based on their experiences. Designers need to be aware of these cultural shifts and cater to the broad spectrum of preferences.

Game Master Dynamics

The role of the GM also changes depending on experience. Novice GMs can benefit from systems that allow flexibility and creativity. Their lack of assumptions, along with the accompanying openness and adaptability, is their great strength. In contrast, veteran GMs typically look for more robust tools that help with complex storytelling and adjudicating rules. Their experience and system mastery, with the knowledge and rules familiarity they provide, form their strong points. Understanding these differences is key to making a game that works for all GMs.

OK, Actual Final Thoughts

The interplay between simplicity and complexity in TTRPG design reflects not only player experience levels but also evolving cultural and cognitive preferences. Novices often thrive on minimalist guidance that reduces cognitive load, encourages exploration, and builds confidence. Veterans, on the other hand, oft demand nuanced mechanics, detailed examples, and robust systems that align with their mental models and expectations.

However, this is all variable and nuanced based on the tabletop roleplaying game niche they embrace, their general mindset and preferences, and their overall experience. Game designers can meet these diverse needs through thoughtful layering of rules, embedded examples, and systems that balance creativity with clarity. Understanding the psychology and preferences of different player groups enables inclusive designs that enrich the TTRPG experience for everyone.

And as always, I’d love to hear your thoughts on this! Leave a comment here and/or come scream at me about it on Bluesky.

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December 21, 2024

Getting in the (Dice) Swing of Things

This entry is part 3 of 3 in the series Motif Thoughts

On Swingy Dice: The Design of Motif

Dice systems play a key role in shaping the dynamics of tabletop RPGs. They not only determine the mechanics of success or failure but also create the emotional backbone of tension, excitement, and consequence in gameplay. In Motif, swingy dice (those that produce wide variations in outcomes) are a deliberate feature that enhances the game both as an oracle and a game engine. Let’s dive into why this choice is central to Motif’s design and how it contributes to the overall experience.

Why Swingy Dice?

Motif is meant to be swingy despite being 2d6/3d6. Because each die is counted individually, so they’re swingy. This swinginess creates excitement and uncertainty, a perfect fit for an oracle system. Here’s why:

Small Range, High Impact
The dice in Motif (d6) stay within a small range, reducing the risk of extreme streaks. The range is small (limiting/mitigating streaks) and it’s an answer oracle, so you want it weighted random. This limitation prevents outcomes from becoming overwhelming while still allowing for significant swings that can drive the narrative forward.
- The combination of small numerical values (1-6) and independent rolls means that variability remains dynamic yet manageable, unlike systems with broader ranges like d20. This balance ensures that the game’s mechanics feel lively without derailing play.
Individual Randomness
Because each die is counted individually, each one represents a unique factor or aspect of the answer. With each die being swingy, this creates a complex random pattern of answers. The outcome isn’t a smooth progression but rather a series of varied shifts, where each die’s result contributes to the overall response in unpredictable and dynamic ways.
- In practical terms, this design choice mirrors the chaos of real-life decision-making, where multiple variables can pull in different directions. This keeps players engaged and reactive, adapting to each roll as the narrative unfolds.
Impactful Modifiers
The small scale makes simple +/-1 and 2 modifiers meaningful. The small range of the dice ensures that even small shifts in modifiers can dramatically influence the outcome, keeping the stakes high and the decisions weighty.
- This contrasts with systems like d20, where a +1 modifier might have a subtler impact, or percentile systems, where slight adjustments can feel almost negligible. In Motif, every modifier directly affects the narrative’s momentum, making every choice resonate more strongly with players.

Distribution and Narrative Impact

Dice distributions directly shape the flow and tone of a narrative by controlling how predictable outcomes are and where results tend to cluster. Swingy systems, such as Motif, create a wide range of outcomes that amplify uncertainty and tension, whereas bell-curved systems lean toward predictability and realism.

For example, the Motif system’s use of individual d6 results means every roll offers a spread of possibilities, contributing to a dynamic and fluid narrative structure. Each roll feels less like a calculation and more like a narrative catalyst. In contrast, systems like 3d6 summed create a bell curve, where middle-range results dominate. This design favors games where outcomes need to reflect consistent skill levels or controlled probabilities, such as simulationist RPGs.

Tension and Stakes in Dice Systems

One of the most critical elements of a dice system is its ability to manage player tension and stakes. Swingy dice systems like Motif excel in this area by creating outcomes that are unpredictable yet significant. Players can never fully anticipate results, keeping the stakes high and the narrative alive.

Modifiers interact differently across dice systems and can drastically alter tension. In Motif, where small changes to a d6’s outcome have a profound impact, a +1 modifier could entirely shift the narrative’s direction. In bell-curved systems or large scale die systems (like d20), modifiers often produce more subtle shifts, with their impact most pronounced at the extreme ends of the probability curve.

Dice pools, like those found in systems such as Blades in the Dark, emphasize the number of successes over individual rolls, creating another form of tension. Adding a single die to a pool can significantly improve odds, making even small adjustments feel meaningful. These systems, however, trade the swinginess of individual rolls for the aggregated predictability of multiple dice.

Embracing Uncertainty

While great for detailed mechanical gameplay and reliability, bell curved systems can lack the dramatic unpredictability that swingy dice provide. In Motif, the swinginess serves to amplify the storytelling aspect, ensuring that every roll feels significant and emotionally charged. This approach captures the chaotic and improvisational spirit central to the approach’s design.

The uncertainty and excitement are great. Swingy dice encourage unpredictable outcomes, which create tension and drama. Unlike bell-curved dice systems, which tend to cluster results around the average, Motif’s dice allow for more variance, giving every roll a feeling of consequence and unpredictability.

Ultimately, each approach tailors the level of tension and the stakes players experience. Swingy systems like Motif excel at delivering dramatic highs and lows, while bell-curved systems smooth out the experience, favoring consistency over chaos.

Reflect on Your Dice System

Take some time to think about your chosen dice system. Is it swingy? Bell curved? What is the range like? How do the modifiers interact with the odds? What is the general feel? These questions are key when designing or choosing a dice system, as each system influences the tone and pacing of the game. Consider these examples:

Bell Curves (3d6 Summed or Dice Pools)
Bell curves produce more predictable outcomes, ideal for games focused on consistency or skill-based challenges. They reduce uncertainty but sometimes may not generate the same high tension. This makes them excellent for simulating realistic systems where skill or practice governs success.
Percentile Systems (d100)
Percentile systems offer high precision, which is perfect for games where exact outcomes matter. % systems are great for high-stakes or high-tension games where that exacting, unforgiving vibe works. While these systems can feel cold or overly mechanical, they shine in contexts where specificity is vital.
Swingy Dice (Motif or d20)
Swingy dice systems like Motif fuel tension and surprise. With unpredictable results, every roll feels consequential, and players are always kept on edge. The resulting emotional intensity complements games emphasizing improvisation and narrative twists.

Final Thoughts

Motif’s use of swingy dice enhances the game’s unpredictability, creating excitement and meaningful choices in a compact system. Whether you’re designing your own game or playing with others, understanding how dice mechanics affect the overall experience is crucial. Are your dice systems swingy or predictable? How do they affect the tension and stakes of your game? By reflecting on these factors, you can better align your mechanics with the experience you want to deliver.

What’s your take on swingy dice? Share your thoughts and let’s discuss how different dice systems shape gameplay! Shout at us over on Bluesky.

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December 14, 2024

Motif Oracle Notebook

Notebook

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1

Answer Type

Modifier

Context

Character

Scene Notes

Story So Far

Extra Notes

DESCRIBE YOUR ACTION

# OF DICE DICE TYPE MODIFIER

Roll History Preview

Character

Scene Notes

Story So Far

Extra Notes

Oracle Rolls

About the Motif Oracle Notebook

Motif Oracle Notebook is a TTRPG storytelling tool designed for solo roleplaying, tracking rolls & character notes during play, and creative writing. It uses a three-die system to generate answers and add nuance to your narrative.

Notebook Features

Oracle: The main oracle interface with roll history and live results
Game Rolls: Dice roller for game mechanics
Character: A place for character details and development
Scene Notes: Track your current scene
Story So Far: Record your overall narrative
Extra Notes: Space for additional information

Session saved successfully!

About the Motif Oracle Notebook

Motif Oracle Notebook is a TTRPG storytelling tool designed for solo roleplaying, tracking rolls & character notes during play, and creative writing. It uses a three-die system to generate answers and add nuance to your narrative.

Notebook Features

Oracle: The main oracle interface with roll history and live results
Game Rolls: Dice roller for game mechanics
Character: A place for character details and development
Scene Notes: Track your current scene
Story So Far: Record your overall narrative
Extra Notes: Space for additional information

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December 14, 2024

TTRPG Mechanics Model: Granularity, Modularity, Connectivity, Fidelity

This entry is part 4 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

Dice Modes: Simulation, Narrative, Oracles

This entry is part 6 of 5 in the series RPG Theory

Dice in TTRPGs: Tools That Shape Play

Dice in tabletop RPGs are more than mere randomizers. They set the tone of gameplay, define the rules of engagement, and guide storytelling. Whether you’re leveraging dice as narrative levers, world simulation tools, or answer oracles, each approach uniquely impacts the experience at your table. Beyond just mechanics, dice become an active participant in shaping the stories we tell and the worlds we explore.

Each approach, while interconnected, emphasizes a different aspect of play. Narrative levers prioritize storytelling momentum and player involvement. World simulation tools ground the game in consistency and logical outcomes. Answer oracles spark creativity and open-ended interpretation. By understanding these approaches, we gain insight into how dice influence not just outcomes but the tone and texture of a game. Let’s delve into each category to explore their unique qualities and the nuances that set them apart.

Dice as Narrative Levers: The Heartbeat of Storytelling

In games like Powered by the Apocalypse (PbtA) and Blades in the Dark, dice results create pivotal story beats. The rolls don’t just resolve actions—they shape how the narrative unfolds. Success and failure aren’t binary; instead, they add layers of complexity:

Rolling a “10+” in PbtA might mean unambiguous success, moving the story toward player goals.
A “7-9” adds drama, introducing complications or choices that deepen the story.
A failure invites the GM to twist the plot, often in unexpected and exciting ways.

This approach makes dice feel like they’re alive, co-authoring a tale alongside the players. Every roll becomes an opportunity for narrative twists, making these systems excellent for collaborative storytelling. These mechanics reinforce player agency while embedding unpredictability into the tale.

Adding extra emphasis, games in this category blur the lines between player and GM roles, often encouraging co-authorship of the story’s direction. By doing so, they offer a sense of shared ownership that enhances player engagement and emotional investment.

Narrative levers are distinct in how they ensure the dice directly propel the story forward. Unlike world simulation, which often focuses on fidelity to the setting, narrative levers prioritize drama, pacing, and the interplay of character motivations. The emergent narrative becomes not just a backdrop but the driving force of the game.

Dice as World Simulators: Grounding in Reality

Dice as simulation tools shine in games like Dungeons & Dragons or GURPS. Here, rolls replicate the logical and physical rules of the game world. They determine whether actions succeed or fail based on character abilities and environmental challenges:

Attack rolls simulate combat uncertainty.
Skill checks reflect the balance between player expertise and task difficulty.

This method offers predictability within the rules of the game world, creating a grounded sense of immersion. While the outcomes might seem less narrative-focused, they provide a structure that players can depend on, fostering strategic planning and investment in their characters’ capabilities. By anchoring the story in a consistent system, simulationist mechanics lend credibility to the world.

Furthermore, this predictability creates opportunities for player growth. Mastering mechanics like attack rolls or saving throws offers a sense of achievement, which appeals to gamers who thrive on measurable progress and tactical depth.

What sets simulation apart is its focus on fidelity to the game’s logic and world-building. Unlike narrative levers that prioritize story momentum, simulation emphasizes realism and consistency. This approach draws players who enjoy solving problems within a defined framework, creating a satisfying sense of coherence and strategy.

Dice as Answer Oracles: Co-Creators of Story

Solo RPGs and GM-lite systems like Ironsworn or the Motif Story Engine elevate dice to a different role: answering questions instead of resolving tasks. These “oracles” inject creativity, surprise, and collaboration into gameplay. For example:

Prompt: Is the forest safe?
Roll: Yes, but…
Interpretation: The forest is free of predators, but its twisting paths make navigation dangerous.

Oracles provide flexible prompts, encouraging players to interpret results and weave them into the narrative. This method is ideal for emergent storytelling, where the dice guide discovery rather than dictate outcomes. It fosters a sense of collaborative play (even for solo players!) by turning the mechanics into a creative partner.

An added benefit is the ability to surprise even the GM or solo player. By delegating narrative twists to the dice, oracles enhance replayability and maintain freshness during longer campaigns.

What distinguishes oracles is their open-endedness and reliance on interpretation. While narrative levers and simulation mechanics provide more structured paths, oracles thrive in ambiguity, making them ideal for discovery and emergent storytelling.

Exploring a Cave Through Different Dice Styles

Let’s illustrate how these approaches differ with a single scenario: exploring a cave.

Narrative Lever: Roll to find out what happens next in the story. Success moves the group closer to their goal; failure introduces an unexpected challenge, such as a hidden trap.
World Simulation: Roll to check perception. If the player fails, they miss a clue, leaving the cave’s mysteries unsolved until they retry or investigate further.
Answer Oracle: Ask, “Is there something unusual here?” and roll for an open-ended response. “Yes, but it’s buried beneath debris. Clearing it will take time and caution.”

Each approach brings a distinct flavor to gameplay, catering to different player preferences and storytelling styles. Exploring a cave isn’t just a scenario; it’s an opportunity to reveal the game’s core philosophy. Whether the dice drive collaborative storytelling, simulate a living world, or spark creativity through open-ended interpretation, they help define the experience for both the players and the GM.

Oracles Can Work in Group Play

Though often associated with solo RPGs, oracle mechanics are incredibly versatile for group play. By asking open-ended questions and interpreting the dice results together, groups can collaboratively build their world and narrative. This approach not only democratizes storytelling but also encourages players to invest more in the game’s direction.

GMs, too, can benefit from oracles, as they provide a framework to improvise without extensive preparation. By embracing ambiguity, groups can create dynamic and surprising stories that feel fresh and organic. This adaptability ensures oracles remain a valuable tool for a variety of play styles, from tightly structured campaigns to looser, experimental ones.

What’s Your Dice Philosophy?

The beauty of tabletop RPGs lies in their versatility. Each approach to dice mechanics reflects a unique philosophy, enhancing different aspects of play. Whether you prefer the dramatic beats of narrative levers, the immersive logic of simulation tools, or the creative flexibility of oracles, the choice shapes the kind of stories you tell.

Maybe you mix and match these methods, blending systems to fit the mood and needs of your game. Or perhaps you’re experimenting with a completely new approach. Whatever your preference, the ways we roll dice are as diverse as the players at the table.

Share your perspective with us on Bluesky. Let’s continue the conversation and explore how the smallest tools, our dice, become the heart of the stories we love.

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December 14, 2024

Tag: TRPG

Welcome to the Division, Merry Agent

Core Gameplay

Mission Stages

Stats and Motif Rolls

Stats

Motif Roll System

Example Outcomes

Special Outcomes

Interpreting Rolls

Chaos Meter

Escalating Chaos

Weirdness Die

Gadget Invention and Use

Example Invention

Example Use

Holiday-Related Goals

Tone and Focus

Mission Variety

Mission Loop: Building Your Holiday Adventure

Investigation: Unravel the Mystery

Tips for Investigation

Investigation Oracles

Containment: Stabilize the Situation

Tips for Containment

Containment Oracles

Aftermath: The Clean-Up and Consequences

Tips for Aftermath

Aftermath Oracles

Appendix: Using the All Flavor Oracles

Scale

Related posts:

Novice TTRPG Players and Simple Guidance

Cognitive Load Management

Learning Through Play

Adaptability

The Takeaway for Game Designers

Experienced Players and the Need for Detailed Guidance

Complexity Preference

Desire for Comprehensive Understanding

Integration with Prior Knowledge

Challenges with Simple Rules for Experienced Players

Overinterpretation

Cognitive Rigidity

Expectation of Depth

Balancing Rule Presentation for Different Players

Layered Rulebooks

Integrated Examples

Encouraging Exploration

A Few Final Thoughts

The Role of Player Psychology

The Evolution of TTRPG Culture

Game Master Dynamics

OK, Actual Final Thoughts

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On Swingy Dice: The Design of Motif

Why Swingy Dice?

Distribution and Narrative Impact

Tension and Stakes in Dice Systems

Embracing Uncertainty

Reflect on Your Dice System

Final Thoughts

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Character

Scene Notes

Story So Far

Extra Notes

Roll History Preview

Character

Scene Notes

Story So Far

Extra Notes

Oracle Rolls

About the Motif Oracle Notebook

Notebook Features

Save Session

Confirm Overwrite

About the Motif Oracle Notebook

Notebook Features

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