Get in the Ring: Running a TTRPG Campaign Inspired by the Netflix Show GLOW

 Watch GLOW | Netflix Official Site

GLOW, the hit Netflix show about a group of women wrestlers in the 1980s, has captured the hearts of audiences around the world. With its colorful characters, fun-loving spirit, and inspiring storylines, it's no wonder that GLOW has become a fan favorite. In this blog post, we'll explore some tips and tricks for running a TTRPG campaign inspired by GLOW.

Setting

The setting of a GLOW inspired campaign should be a professional wrestling league in the 1980s. The league should be filled with interesting characters, including wrestlers, managers, promoters, and fans. The players should feel like they are part of a larger-than-life world of drama and spectacle, where every match is a chance to shine.

Characters

The characters in a GLOW inspired campaign should be a mix of wrestlers, each with their own unique backstory and personality. It's important to work with the players to create characters that fit into the world of GLOW, and that have ties to the other characters in the group. The characters should be brave and confident, but also vulnerable and flawed. They should have weaknesses and secrets that can be exploited by their opponents.

Story

The story of a GLOW inspired campaign should be focused on the ups and downs of life as a wrestler, just like in the show. The campaign should be driven by the actions of the players, with their decisions and choices shaping the outcome of the campaign. The story should be full of drama, humor, and heart, with plenty of opportunities for the players to develop their characters and explore the world of GLOW.

Gameplay

The gameplay of a GLOW inspired campaign should be focused on roleplaying and combat, with a mix of both in and out of the ring action. The players should have opportunities to use their skills and creativity to win matches and overcome obstacles, but these should come with consequences. The campaign should be challenging, with the players facing tough opponents and navigating the politics of the wrestling world.

Example Campaign Outline: Rise to the Top


The players are a group of wrestlers in a struggling wrestling league. They must work together to overcome their opponents, win matches, and rise to the top of the league. Along the way, they must navigate the politics of the wrestling world, deal with rivalries and alliances, and confront their own personal demons.

Suggested Player Characters and NPCs

  •     The Heel - A cocky and arrogant wrestler who uses dirty tactics to win matches.
  •     The Face - A heroic and charismatic wrestler who always plays by the rules.
  •     The Manager - A savvy businessperson who knows how to promote and market their wrestlers to the public.
  •     The Promoter - A sleazy and unscrupulous businessman who is always looking for a way to make a quick buck.
  •     The Fan - A die-hard wrestling fan who is always cheering on their favorite wrestlers.


Suitable TTRPG Systems

  •     World Wide Wrestling: World Wide Wrestling is a TTRPG system that is designed specifically for wrestling campaigns. It is known for its fast-paced and action-packed gameplay, making it a great choice for a GLOW inspired campaign that focuses on in-ring combat and drama.
  •     Fate Core: Fate Core is a flexible TTRPG system that can be adapted to a wide range of settings and genres. It is known for its narrative-focused gameplay, making it a great choice for a GLOW inspired campaign that focuses on roleplaying and character development.
  •     Savage Worlds: Savage Worlds is a TTRPG system that is designed for action-packed and fast-paced gameplay. It can be adapted to a wide range of settings and genres, making it a great choice for a GLOW inspired campaign that focuses on both combat and roleplaying.


In conclusion, running a TTRPG campaign inspired by GLOW can be a fun and exciting experience. By focusing on the colorful characters, fun-loving spirit, and inspiring storylines of the show, creating interesting and compelling characters, crafting a challenging and engaging story, and using both roleplaying and combat as the main gameplay focus, the players can experience their own wrestling adventure at the table.

What are some ways to incorporate 80s pop culture into a GLOW-inspired campaign?


Incorporating 80s pop culture into a GLOW-inspired campaign can add an extra layer of nostalgia and fun to the experience. Here are some ways to do it:

    Music: Music was a huge part of 80s pop culture, so incorporating it into the campaign can help create an authentic atmosphere. Create playlists or compile a mixtape of popular 80s songs to play during scenes or matches. Encourage the players to incorporate 80s music into their characters and storylines.

    Fashion: 80s fashion was all about bright colors, big hair, and bold styles. Encourage the players to dress up their characters in 80s inspired outfits, or provide some inspiration by sharing images of 80s fashion. This can add a fun and nostalgic element to the campaign.

    Movies and TV shows: Movies and TV shows were a huge part of 80s pop culture, so incorporating references to them can add depth to the campaign. Have NPCs reference popular movies and TV shows from the 80s, or create storylines inspired by them.

    Technology: Technology was rapidly advancing in the 80s, so incorporating it into the campaign can add a futuristic element. Have NPCs use technology like VCRs, boomboxes, or early computers. Use 80s technology as a plot device, such as a malfunctioning sound system during a match.

    Sports: Sports were a big part of 80s pop culture, so incorporating them into the campaign can add excitement and authenticity. Have NPCs reference popular sports teams and athletes from the 80s, or create storylines inspired by them. Use sports as a plot device, such as a rival wrestler who was a former athlete.

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