I really love roleplaying games (RPGs).
I'm not talking so much about the computer RPGs, though I tend to like them too. The thing is that pen & paper RPGs have little to do with computer ones, other than maybe mechanics and character building and advancement.
Computers are wonderful for managing complex mechanical systems, which is why they do an okay job of managing characters, combat systems, hit points, and all of that. What they do a terrible job of is roleplaying (none to little) and creative problem solving.
Pen and paper RPGs (which I'm now going to refer to as simply "RPGs") can be amazing at fostering creativity and imaginative problem solving. RPGs have allowed me to develop my creative muscles, and helped direct me into imagining new cultures, monsters, and worlds. I've enjoyed computer games a plenty, but I've never laughed so hard, or been so shocked at a crazy plot twist, as I have around a real table, with my real friends. Computer games haven't done that for me.
Because of computer game's amazing ability to calculate and simulate reality, I'm going for a very lite RPG system for the Monster Commute RPG. It's nearly impossible to come up for rules to define every aspect of physics, and so I don't think I'm even going to try. When games attempt this, they end up in a downward spiral of more and more and more rules. (See the Rolemaster RPG.) It just isn't practical.
Instead, I'm hoping to make something that is rules lite, but still gritty, dangerous, and entertaining to play. I'm hoping that it will be a way that really provides depth for Monstru, and enriches the backdrop for both players and the comic itself.
Your support of our Monster Commute Book I (and soon II) will encourage (and help) me finish the Monster Commute RPG. That's the next huge project/book for 2011.
- Daniel
