More Posts on Great RPGs...
Not content with short posts or comments on the huge topic of "What Makes a Great RPG?", many bloggers have picked up the torch and written quite thoughtful posts on the subject.

At Code Ugly, Greg Tedder (AKA DrSlinky) has posted a bit of a retrospective on great RPGs - or rather, what made various computer and console RPGs great for him. He cites the storyline, certain character-improvement mechanics (particularly multiclassing), the "lore" of the world, exploration, and a variety of equipment.

At Mindlence, Exile has posted his take on "What Makes a Great RPG?" He contrasts two opposite ends of the spectrum... the Final Fantasy series and the Elder Scrolls series.

Jeff Freeman also took up the challenge, and brings up the subject of "cooperative game play" and more importantly, "entertainment game play." In other words, playing a non-zero-sum game where nobody is really supposed to lose, and the true point is to have a fun time doing what your doing. The stated objective really is secondary.

Mr. Halbert brings up three features he considers critical - Variety, Advancement, and Payoff. He also emphasizes the things that can ruin an otherwise good RPG.

I've really enjoyed these discussions!

Labels: Game Design, Roleplaying Games

- posted by The Rampant Coyote @ 5:00 AM (Permalink)