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Cognitive Load Theory in Roleplaying Games
Cognitive load theory is the idea that our working memory is imposed by the complexity and distracting elements of new information before we start to make connections. In roleplaying games, complex and distracting elements of new information can result in a loss of player engagement. In this post, I briefly describe cognitive load theory, how Continue reading
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Frame Scenes in your Roleplaying Games with the Inverted Pyramid
The inverted pyramid dictates that we start with the most important information and for framing scenes in roleplaying games, this is the purpose of the scene. I frame this as a question within the context of the wider narrative or world and use every player decision to drive the scene towards a conclusion. By doing Continue reading
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How to create a NPC for your RPG campaigns
For me, NPCs are the heart of my RPG campaigns and the manner in which I create a NPC for my RPGs has changed over the past two campaigns. Now, no matter what system I use, my NPCs will always include four key elements: a drive, threat, dilemma, and conflict. Originally inspired by an RPGgeek Continue reading
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Using Orbital Crypt’s 18-Slot Inventory
Orbital Crypt recently described an 18-slot inventory system “inspired by the old word” to track resources in their campaigns. In the past, I wrote about the place component of campaigns using point-crawls and recently wrote about the time component using a campaign tracker. I read Orbital Crypt’s post about the 18-slot inventory just as I Continue reading
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Web DM Campaign Tracker and Blades in the Dark Clocks
One element of my planning for my TTRPG campaigns that I have yet to formalise or implement a tool for is campaign tracking. Jim Davis recently described a campaign tracker he uses in planning for his sessions over on the Web DM YouTube channel and I think pairing it with a Kanban board alongside Blades Continue reading
About Me
An ARPIA award-winning Australian tabletop roleplaying game designer.
Find MY GAMES on itch.io or DrivethruRPG.com
Top Posts
- How to improve player engagement in roleplaying games using questions
- Frame scenes in your roleplaying games with the inverted pyramid
- Cognitive load theory in roleplaying games
- Kaiju generator
- How to write a backstory for a DnD character
- How to create a NPC for your RPG campaigns
- How to play a solo RPG (Ultimate Guide)
The Bardic Inquiry 