Two Words (Pen & Paper)
Edited January 10, 2023
This was a finalist in the 2016 iteration of the 200 Word RPG Challenge.
Two Words: A Game
Character Creation: Some Examples:
Choose Class: Tough Policeman Arrogant Wizard Space Scoundrel
Choose Name: Chet Greaves Marvolio Malzworth Krad Stardrifter
Three Traits: Intimidating Presence Raven Familiar Steady Hand
Impressive Physique Staggering Intellect Charming Grin
(one liability) Tremendous Appetite Germ Phobia Extremely Greedy
Four Skills: Discover Clue Control Animals Pilot Vehicle
Detain Suspect Conjure Fire Trick Shot
Devastating Punch Become Invisible Create Disguise
Recognize Lie Comprehend Language Bypass Lock
Game Master: Describe Scene. Present Problems. Adjudicate Actions.
Trying Things: Roll d6. Normal thing? 4+ succeeds.
Relevant Trait? 3+ succeeds.
Using Skill? 3+ succeeds.
Both appropriate? 2+ succeeds.
Difficult Thing? Add 1.
Relevant Liability? Add 1.
Sample Session:
Game Master: Krad Stardrifter:
Space Station. Decaying Orbit.
Business opportunity!
Docking Bay. No Guards.
Proceed... cautiously.
Tunnel Forks.
Left Branch: Well Lit.
Right Branch: Less So.
Head Right.
Reinforced Door. Says "Vault."
Locking Mechanism?
Oh yeah. Expensive one.
Bypass It.
Roll die. Need... 3.
(rolls die) Got 3.
Lock beeps. Door opens.
Big score?
No treasure. Just guards.
Well, Crap. Pull gun. Shoot quick.
Need... 3.
Steady Hand?
Nope -- ambushed.
(sighs loudly) Okay, Fine. Rolled 2.
Gun Jams.
Dag nabbit. Create disguise?
Ha ha. Fat chance.
Okay then. Run away!