200 word RPG contest

[Jubal]

Just saw someone link this on FB - as it says on the tin, a competition to do an RPG design in 200 words:
https://200wordrpg.github.io/2017entries

If I get time I might put an entry together, anyone else interested?

[Clockwork]

Interesting, I'll try and think of something. From reading the website of the guy that runs it: he likes both light and heavy rule sets though favours light (dungeon world is his favourite atm), prefers low sci-fi and fantasy. He also seems to love creating action movie vignettes in his games through mechanics which encourage description from the players.

[Jubal]

Yeah, I suspect I'm not a good enough or experienced enough RPG writer to have even a vague shot but nothing ventured nothing gained etc etc

I think the judging panel may be more diverse - I dunno if they all have the same views as the organiser.

[Clockwork]

The judges are different people, not necessarily him. I looked at some previous winners and a fair amount were very umm....alternative.

[Jubal]

Aye, that's what I meant. So it's probably worth throwing anything in to see what sticks!

[Phoenixguard09]

We could potentially put in a joint entry?

[Jubal]

We could do - I kind of feel like we might do better to put in more entries (as we can do up to 2 each) and showcase our variety more?

[Phoenixguard09]

You're probably right there. I got a little carried away with the idea of collaborating with people who actually know armadillo.

[Jubal]

Well, if you have an idea you can always pick my brain regardless

[Clockwork]

Is there a way to make an RPG where the DM sets up a mystery for the PCs to solve?


EDIT: I mean... Any DM can in any ruleset but...idk... a system specifically supporting it?

[Phoenixguard09]

The GUMSHOE system is specifically made for detective-based games. Trail of Cthulhu is a good use of the mechanics.

Call of Cthulhu is slightly different but lends itself to investigation-heavy games too, and has a lot of support.

[Clockwork]

Welp, that's me out of ideas.

[Phoenixguard09]

Sorry man, I misread your question. I thought you were asking if there were any systems existing that covered it rather than how to do it.

I'd say the biggest things the system would have to do is have a built-in reward for players solving mysteries and hunting clues and a system for GM's to use in building mysteries.

I'd definitely be looking at ways to ensure that players don't miss clues, even a resource players can expend to find hints and clues or have leads come forward and stuff.

[Clockwork]

Nah I was kinda asking both, don't want to redo something unless I can do it differently.


Maybe a crime thing with classes like investigator, forensics...others, solve crime hunt criminal.

[Jubal]

Written my entries, will send in soon