Rolling or not rolling dice as a GM? Analysis and insights
Among game masters and roleplaying enthusiasts, this question always sparks discussion: as a GM, is it better to roll dice or not? Every group has its own habits, and sooner or later every GM asks themselves what philosophy fits best for their table. Some prefer total transparency, rolling the dice in front of players and accepting whatever result comes up. […]
GM never rolls: Why Game Masters stop rolling dice in RPGs?
In the world of roleplaying game design, GM never rolls systems are getting greater attention. According to the r/RPGdesign community, the main advantages include lowering the operational burden for the Game Master, allowing better focus on storytelling instead of math. The game becomes more player-facing, offering players more control and engagement over their characters’ fate. Many designers and players favor […]
How to react when players upend your plans: concrete GM strategies to enjoy the game and grow as a facilitator
Embracing Surprise and Player Choice in RPG Sessions What happens when players ignore your carefully prepared adventure and rush off in unexpected directions? Many game masters struggle with the feeling that hours of planning are wasted when the group derails the narrative. Instead of seeing these detours as setbacks, consider them single best feature of the roleplaying experience. Unpredictable choices […]
D&D Under Fire: A Complete Map of Criticisms and Controversies
Dungeons & Dragons is the gold standard of tabletop roleplaying—but its fame has sparked intense and often polarizing criticism. By analyzing heated community debates online, we can outline a “map of criticism” covering everything from rules and mechanics to social and corporate controversies—the polemics run much deeper than you’d think. 1. Game System Criticisms “Too simple” vs “too complex”: Many argue […]
Tabletop RPG Market and Future: Official Data, Trends & Projections 2024‑2033
Introduction The world of tabletop roleplaying games (TTRPGs) is booming. But with growth comes saturation. In this article, we’ll explore the most reliable figures for 2024, the challenges facing the sector, and where this market might go by 2033. 2024 Data & Forecasts Global TTRPG market The global TTRPG market is estimated around USD 1.925–1.93 billion in 2024. globalgrowthinsights.com+2businessresearchinsights.com+2 Business […]
Kickstarter or Alternatives? How to Discover New RPGs in 2025
Finding new tabletop roleplaying games has changed. Kickstarter is often the default route for indie titles, but it’s not the only way—and sometimes not even the best. Pros & Cons of Discovering RPGs via Kickstarter Pros Access to bold, experimental projects often ignored by traditional publishing. You can track the development, engage with authors, and shape decisions. Backer deals, exclusive […]
How to make RPG combat unforgettable – 10+1 unwritten rules for GMs and players
Combat in tabletop RPGs should be the moment everyone leans in, not when half the table checks their phones. Too often, fights become mechanical chores: rounds, turns, damage rolls, and someone going “wait, what initiative are we on?” Let’s fix that. Here are 10+1 unwritten rules to make your combats raw, thrilling, cinematic, and horrifying (if you’re into that kind […]
Where to find free illustrations for your table top role playing game
If you’re looking for vintage images for book covers, blogs, design or any creative project, there are many free online resources dedicated to woodcuts, engravings and antique prints. This guide offers a more detailed look at each source, including practical strengths and limits. Pinterest https://pinterest.com Pros: Huge variety, covering obscure engravings and woodcuts; intuitive browsing through themed boards; quick for visual […]
Borg of Pripyat, the indie RPG reshaping post-apocalyptic gaming
In recent years, the indie RPG scene has embraced innovation and fresh concepts beyond mainstream fantasy. Borg of Pripyat stands out as a unique title, combining sci-fi, horror and social intrigue into a striking alternative history. The Eridu asteroid struck Earth, shattering and triggering a series of events that upended global power balances. Mutants, devastating and anomalous weather phenomena (known […]
How to handle a player character’s death in RPGs: ideas, tips, and community opinions
When a character dies in an RPG campaign, it’s one of the most delicate and dramatically rich moments at the table. The question “what should you do when a PC dies?” doesn’t have a single answer, but the international RPG community offers plenty of valuable suggestions. Give space for a final scene Many GMs and players agree that allowing a […]