So the only game ive played was dnd and its hard finding a group for some reason and i dont really like that online stuff. so i like dnd but i have no-one to play with that i know and dnd can be complex at time.

is there by chance a free rpg tabletop game that is great for solo beginners who want to play more rpg’s and such? i just feel like i need something besides computer games to play/do.

  • @athanorEnglish
    3•2 years ago

    I understand your situation, but my first recommendation would be to take another look at “that online stuff” - some groups are very supportive for beginners, some ways of playing (e.g. pbp) are easier if you are still learning and/or find playing over video/audio too stressful, or don’t have much time, etc. The social element and collective creativity of playing in a group is part of what makes RPGs fun.

    However, there are hacks for solo play for several great systems (although not free). For Blades in the Dark (the system I’m currently playing most) both Alone In The Dark (https://www.drivethrurpg.com/m/product/282013) and Omens in the Dark (https://guimonocores.itch.io/omens-in-the-dark) have been recommended to me, and the BitD Discord server is very friendly if you have any questions.

    • @[email protected]English
      3•2 years ago

      While not free, I just have to recommend Apocalypse World. Its rules are relatively simple (compared to DnD). I mention it because Apocalypse World was one of the inspirations for Blades in the Dark, which is also a great game!

      • @athanorEnglish
        2•2 years ago

        Absolutely! Do you have a recommendation for a solo hack of AW?

        • @ZombiepirateEnglish
          2•2 years ago

          Ironsworn (and it’s sci-fi offshoot Starforged) are the only solo PbtA (Powered by the Apocalypse) games that I know of. They’re fantastic, but a bit mind-bending if they’re your first foray into the style of game. If you’re interested, I’d recommend finding an actual play to see the game flow; the rules will make a lot more sense.

      • @ZombiepirateEnglish
        2•2 years ago

        Apocalypse World is my all-time favorite RPG.

        • It’s got some crunch, just focused on narrative instead of combat
        • It does PVP better than any other system (while the PCs always start friendly, the MC should push conflicts among them)
        • Custom settings ensure player buy-in
        • It has the best GM advice section I’ve ever read included in the book
        • The psychic maelstrom gives the PCs an opportunity to get new information that is usually handled OOC
        • Campaigns are nice and tight, usually wrapping in a couple dozen sessions
        • The resolution mechanic always pushes the story forward, and partial successes are well implemented

        I enjoy other PbtA games, but Apocalypse World is the gold standard IMO.