Body Horror RPG: How to Run a Tabletop Roleplaying Game in the Style of David Cronenberg Movies

David Cronenberg is a master of body horror, a subgenre of horror that focuses on the physical and psychological transformations of the human body. His movies are known for their disturbing imagery, graphic violence, and exploration of the darker aspects of human nature. If you're a fan of Cronenberg's movies, you can recreate that same sense of unease and horror in a tabletop roleplaying game. Here's how to run a tabletop roleplaying game in the style of David Cronenberg movies:

1. Choose a System

The first step in running a Cronenberg-style game is to choose a system that's suitable for the genre. Systems like Dread or Call of Cthulhu, which are designed for horror and suspense, are ideal choices. Alternatively, you could modify an existing system to better fit the themes and tone of Cronenberg's movies.

2. Create Characters

Once you've chosen a system, it's time to create characters. In a Cronenberg-style game, the players should create characters who are undergoing physical or psychological transformations, whether through disease, mutation, or experimentation. Think about what motivates the characters, what their transformations are, and how they will cope with the changes.

3. Set the Scene

Cronenberg's movies often take place in sterile, clinical environments, such as laboratories or hospitals. Set the scene with descriptions that evoke a sense of isolation and unease. Use props, such as surgical tools or medical equipment, to create a sense of authenticity.

4. Emphasize Body Horror

Body horror is the defining feature of Cronenberg's movies, so emphasize this in your game. Use graphic descriptions of physical and psychological transformations, and create encounters that emphasize the horror of the body. Whether it's a character growing a third arm or experiencing hallucinations, the players should feel the horror of the transformation.

5. Use Psychological Horror

Cronenberg's movies also explore the darker aspects of human nature, such as obsession, control, and power. Use psychological horror to create a sense of unease and tension. Whether it's a character's fear of losing control or a desire for power that leads to madness, the players should feel the psychological horror of the situation.

6. Introduce Human Adversaries

In addition to the physical and psychological horrors, introduce human adversaries, such as mad scientists, government agents, or even other transformed individuals. These adversaries can create a sense of tension and conflict, and provide a different type of challenge for the players.

7. Use Science and Technology

Cronenberg's movies often explore the intersection of science and technology with the human body. Use these same themes in your game to create a sense of realism and authenticity. Whether it's genetic engineering or experimental drugs, the players should feel the impact of scientific and technological advancements on their characters' bodies and minds.

In conclusion, running a tabletop roleplaying game in the style of David Cronenberg movies can be a disturbing and unsettling experience. By choosing a suitable system, creating diverse characters, setting the scene, emphasizing body and psychological horror, introducing human adversaries, and using science and technology, you can create a gaming experience that captures the spirit of Cronenberg's body horror movies. So grab your dice and get ready to explore the darker aspects of human nature!