Let's dive into the latest happenings across the TTRPG blogosphere. This month, we've got a mix of insightful design discussions, campaign setting ideas, revisitations of classic games, and even a bit of real-world economics creeping in.
Delving into Game Design and Play
First up, Deeper in the Game tackles a common challenge in RPG design: how to make sure players remember and use those "always on" rules. The post offers practical tips for keeping these rules visible and top-of-mind during play, such as physical prompts and character sheet reminders. It's a great read for any game designer or GM looking to improve information flow and player engagement.
Campaign Settings and Ideas
Next, Elfmaids & Octopi shares reference material and background tables for an Ethyria setting, drawing inspiration from Greek mythology and Theros. The post includes family generation tables, personal relations, family drama, and youthful events to flesh out character backstories. There are also tables for clan events.
From the Sorcerer's Skull revisits the idea of robot dungeons, offering a unique twist on post-apocalyptic and fantasy settings. The author suggests replacing traditional monsters with robotic guardians in underground bases, creating a whole ecology of robots. It's a fun and imaginative concept for those looking to add a sci-fi element to their dungeon crawls.
The Zhodani Base highlights Traveller Supplement 1: The Ephemeral Glades, and includes videos and music inspired by the game.
Revisiting the Classics
Leicester's Ramble revisits "Owen's Mine," offering four variations on a single dungeon space. Originally posted in 2015, the updated version combines and cleans up the format, making it easier to use. It's a testament to the enduring appeal of well-designed dungeon crawls.
Grognardia takes a nostalgic look at the Q Manual for the James Bond 007 RPG. The author praises its elegant design, flavorful writing, and high production values, noting how it enhances immersion in the world of James Bond. It's a reminder of the importance of tone and presentation in RPG supplements.
Grognardia also revisits Merc: 2000, a military RPG supplement for Twilight: 2000. The author reflects on how the game anticipated the rise of private military contractors and the morally ambiguous conflicts of the post-Cold War era. It's a thought-provoking look at a game that proved to be strangely prophetic.
Real-World Economics and RPGs
Finally, Coins and Scrolls delves into the impact of tariffs on the RPG industry, specifically focusing on Canadian content. The author discusses how tariffs on ink, paper, and cardboard could affect print costs and distribution. It's a fascinating intersection of economics and gaming, offering a glimpse into the challenges faced by creators in the current global landscape.
That's all for this month's update! Happy gaming, everyone!
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