Ok IM not trying to deflate the GNS Theory. The ideas of the three main areas are intriguing from an intellectual angle. The styles of play as it were encompass much in the way one can think about gaming. I also realize that GNS has become the Big Model theory of some of game design. And From the design aspect I can see where is can be a tool to creating unique and fun games.
However I have become to question why we as gamers feel the need to fit ourselves or others into these labels. I know I did it too. I am, according to the theory, a Narrativist with some leaning toward simulationist. And this is why I started to wonder, why I worried about this. At the time it seemed important to fit into an area within the theory. Some of you proudly state which area you fit in and a few sneer at one side or the other. I’m not naming names, but you know who you are.
I have come to my own conclusion in that I’m a gamer, this theory is good for intellectual debate, sure, nice when you’re looking into actual game design, but why label your play style, Enjoy what you do and enjoy what you play. Take time to really look at the games you play and if your anything like me, you will see that you enjoy games that fall along the whole spectrum of the GNS theory.
So do you think you need to fall into these labels, or are you like me and just want to promote gaming? So in all things…Go Game!
Saturday, June 23, 2007
Monday, June 18, 2007
Adventuring in Prime Time
Hey Misfitites, Thayan again talking about my adventuring down the path less traveled. Today I want to take a moment and talk about TV in gaming, well sorta. No not how the Dresden Files is a TV show and Now an RPG, but in the way PTA has captivated me as an audience.
Now Prime Time Adventures, by dog eared publications, is a Story Game with some GM Lite qualities. In it you create the Greatest Show Not on TV. Sound Fun? It is. This was the first Story game I ran with my group and we had a blast. With DOgs In The Vineyard fresh in our minds we sat down to tackle PTA, well I have to be honest I kinda pushed it on the group. I wish I could say Everyone showed up early but truth be told it was a night with 2 players missing and the rest lack luster at first.
On this night I became the Producer. The GM lite position allowed me to place obsticals in the players way and force some conflict. But I had a budget. Thats right I had to work with a budget. I couldnt throw things at the players willy nilley I had to spend tokens to get the cards, PTA uses a card based mechanics, to oppose the players.
So working within the budget I start formulating my evil GM plans as the players start creating characters. Now its been awhile so I cant remember everything but they did decide to create a show that is besed Described as "Veronica Mars On Mars" Called "Red October Skies" with the Main Charcater being October Sky, a too smart for his own good inquistive young man with a penchant for trouble. At his side was his "Cousin" a resident of Mars and also an Android (discovered by October in the pilot) and a sassy, sarcastic Alien.
This is when it gets good. The players start slow but the group really dives in as PTA helps with how the mechanics go and we really get a Story now moment. Granted I had been developing a "Plot" while they were creating characters and grabbing ideas from NPCs and things they came up with as they developed the characters. Well as the story ends the group is loving it alot more then they thought going into it and I had a blast as well.
I do realize this gaming story is a bit longer then last time amd I promise next episode will be a bit more theory and less experience but I needed to share this one with you all. It was really the first Story now experience I have had and It blew me away with how much fun we all had. And Yes I as the GM worked within the budget and havent had as much fun GMing even with an unlimited budget normally.
Well I think that about covers it this Misfit Brew, Thanks again for walking the journey with me and as always...Go Game!
Now Prime Time Adventures, by dog eared publications, is a Story Game with some GM Lite qualities. In it you create the Greatest Show Not on TV. Sound Fun? It is. This was the first Story game I ran with my group and we had a blast. With DOgs In The Vineyard fresh in our minds we sat down to tackle PTA, well I have to be honest I kinda pushed it on the group. I wish I could say Everyone showed up early but truth be told it was a night with 2 players missing and the rest lack luster at first.
On this night I became the Producer. The GM lite position allowed me to place obsticals in the players way and force some conflict. But I had a budget. Thats right I had to work with a budget. I couldnt throw things at the players willy nilley I had to spend tokens to get the cards, PTA uses a card based mechanics, to oppose the players.
So working within the budget I start formulating my evil GM plans as the players start creating characters. Now its been awhile so I cant remember everything but they did decide to create a show that is besed Described as "Veronica Mars On Mars" Called "Red October Skies" with the Main Charcater being October Sky, a too smart for his own good inquistive young man with a penchant for trouble. At his side was his "Cousin" a resident of Mars and also an Android (discovered by October in the pilot) and a sassy, sarcastic Alien.
This is when it gets good. The players start slow but the group really dives in as PTA helps with how the mechanics go and we really get a Story now moment. Granted I had been developing a "Plot" while they were creating characters and grabbing ideas from NPCs and things they came up with as they developed the characters. Well as the story ends the group is loving it alot more then they thought going into it and I had a blast as well.
I do realize this gaming story is a bit longer then last time amd I promise next episode will be a bit more theory and less experience but I needed to share this one with you all. It was really the first Story now experience I have had and It blew me away with how much fun we all had. And Yes I as the GM worked within the budget and havent had as much fun GMing even with an unlimited budget normally.
Well I think that about covers it this Misfit Brew, Thanks again for walking the journey with me and as always...Go Game!
Saturday, June 16, 2007
Been Busy
Hey Guys and Gals,
Sorry I havent updated, look for a new one in the next few days. However Ive had a chance to podcast with some friends the last few days. First off I got to sit down on the New The Wandering Geek Podcast. SO when its released go check it out. Curt the Camera Guy runs a great show.
Look for a new post about Prime Time adventures later this month as it will coincide with the Misfit Brew Essay this month.
Sorry I havent updated, look for a new one in the next few days. However Ive had a chance to podcast with some friends the last few days. First off I got to sit down on the New The Wandering Geek Podcast. SO when its released go check it out. Curt the Camera Guy runs a great show.
Look for a new post about Prime Time adventures later this month as it will coincide with the Misfit Brew Essay this month.
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