Topics in Interactive Media (376-0-23)
Topic
Storyteling through ttRPGs
Instructors
Mauricio A. Cordero
Meeting Info
Louis Hall 118: Mon 1:00PM - 3:50PM
Overview of class
We play RPGs to take risks, make choices and find out what happens to our proxies. Carelessly or carefully, we roll the dice, pick a card, ask a question and define our role. This course will examine the rhizomatic nature of ttRPG storytelling and ask, "How can we design games that make the experience of running proxies more meaningful and fulfilling?" While the ttRPG writer cannot control the whims of an unknowable audience, they can plant the seeds that will give ample choice, agency and fulfillment to game runners and players alike. Participants will create short adventures based on several open license rulesets such as Mork Borg, Free Tabletop License, Project Black Flag, etc. We will also conduct playtesting and refine, develop and prepare your adventures for publication. Through playtesting, you will experience firsthand the rhizomatic, unpredictable storytelling unique to the medium.
Registration Requirements
Basic knowledge of ttRPGs (tabletop "pen and paper") is strongly recommended.
Learning Objectives
You will develop adventure modules and supplements based on existing rulesets. From concept to publication and all the development steps along the way. You will also practice running games and participating in them as part of the playtesting process. You will discover resources for the study, marketing, production, and dissemination of ttRPG adventures and supplements. You will develop your abilities to create novel and engaging content through examination and discernment of a wide variety of work.This knowledge is essential in any form of game design- analog or digital.
Class Materials (Required)
Design software such as Adobe Creative Suite or similar, if you do not have access to Adobe, a license can be provided. Class materials: Required: A computer, (graphic tablet or pen input is strongly recommended). A set of polyhedral dice, a set of at least six 6-sided dice available in most game shops or online for around $10+/- Grid paper, pencils, basic art supplies (e.g., markers, watercolors, rulers, drawing paper, etc.) Free to download standard reference documents (SRD) for Year Zero Engine, Chaosium's Basic Roleplaying System, MÖRK BORG BARE BONES edition, Black Flag Roleplaying (a 5e alternative) etc. Links or PDF's will be provided in class. Recommended: Complete Kobold Guide to Game Design, ed. Janna Silversteen ISBN 978-1-936781-03-4 $19.99 softcover, $9.99 PDF How to Write Adventure Modules That Don't Suck, ed. Joseph Goodman and Jeff Erwin ISBN 978-1-946231-08-6
Enrollment Requirements
Enrollment Requirements: Reserved for RTVF Majors or Game Design + Media Arts + Animation minor until the end of pre-registration, after which time enrollment will be open to everyone who has taken the prerequisites.
Associated Classes
LAB - Louis Hall 118: Wed 1:00PM - 3:50PM