Welcome to Jurassic RPG: How to Run a Tabletop Roleplaying Game in the Style of the Jurassic Park Movies

 

The Jurassic Park movies are beloved for their thrilling mix of science fiction, adventure, and action. They transport viewers to a world of prehistoric wonder and danger, where dinosaurs roam and humans must struggle to survive. If you're a fan of the Jurassic Park movies, you can recreate that same sense of adventure and danger in a tabletop roleplaying game. Here's how to run a tabletop roleplaying game in the style of the Jurassic Park movies:

1. Choose a System

The first step in running a Jurassic Park-style game is to choose a system that's suitable for the genre. Systems like Savage Worlds or Fate Core, which are designed for cinematic action and storytelling, are ideal choices. Alternatively, you could modify an existing system to better fit the themes and tone of the movies.

2. Create Characters

Once you've chosen a system, it's time to create characters. In a Jurassic Park-style game, the players should create characters who are scientists, explorers, or adventurers, with a mix of skills and abilities that will help them survive in the dangerous world of dinosaurs. Think about what motivates the characters, what their strengths and weaknesses are, and what obstacles they'll need to overcome to achieve their goals.

3. Set the Scene

The Jurassic Park movies are known for their lush, tropical settings, so set the scene with descriptions that evoke a sense of place. Whether it's a pristine island or a dense jungle, the setting should reflect the awe-inspiring and dangerous world of dinosaurs.

4. Emphasize Exploration and Discovery

In the Jurassic Park movies, exploration and discovery are just as important as the action and danger. Emphasize this in your game by having the players explore the island and its many secrets, discovering new species of dinosaurs, and uncovering the mysteries behind the park's creation.

5. Use Dinosaur Encounters

Dinosaur encounters are a key element of the Jurassic Park movies and should be a key element of your game. Use a variety of dinosaur encounters, from peaceful herbivores to deadly predators, to create a sense of danger and excitement. The players will need to use their wits and skills to survive these encounters and emerge victorious.

6. Introduce Human Adversaries

In addition to dinosaurs, introduce human adversaries, such as rival scientists, park employees, or even corporate spies. These adversaries can create a sense of tension and conflict, and provide a different type of challenge for the players.

7. Use Technology and Science

The Jurassic Park movies are known for their use of technology and science, from genetic engineering to advanced computer systems. Use these same technologies in your game to create a sense of wonder and to give the players tools to overcome obstacles and challenges.

In conclusion, running a tabletop roleplaying game in the style of the Jurassic Park movies can be a thrilling and rewarding experience. By choosing a suitable system, creating diverse characters, setting the scene, emphasizing exploration and discovery, using dinosaur encounters, introducing human adversaries, and using technology and science, you can create a gaming experience that captures the spirit of these beloved science fiction adventures. So grab your dice and get ready to journey to a world where dinosaurs still roam!