RPGs are for Gamers

Greetings Seekers!

Lots of Seekers have been starting new campaigns and fleshing out new characters since August. I've followed a lot of discussions and out-and-out arguments about the 3rd edition rules. Several suggestions on alternative game systems have been bandied about as well. But the primary question remains, no matter the system, are you having fun?

The long-running feud in the RPG industry among game creators, game masters, and game players is should role-playing games emphasize "role-playing" or "roll-playing." Many different game systems have spun out of the arguments. Many a person has spent considerable time and thought defending one side or the other. Often, they have done so in an all too serious tone, extrapolating on how RPGs are living theatre, vehicles for literary storytelling.

Lost in the tumultuous hubbub is the simple fact that RPGs are games. Games are fun. People play games to have fun. Fun games create Gamers -- persons who game on a regular basis, or who long to do so.

No matter your preference and the preferences of your fellow Gamers in your group, there is a probably a game system and game setting out there that fits your style of game. And if there isn't, well, then use what you like and discard the superfluous. Don't be sucked in by the desire or pressure to play the "official" rules. Mix-n-match as needed to make the game fun for you, but don't lose sight that the Garner next to you might like a little different flavor in their game. Urge your game master to run a game that is fun for all.

Here at Troll Lord Games, while we take our adventure and world creation duties seriously, we try to infuse our products with an overall aura of fun and familiarity. It doesn't distract from the nature of the products, but it helps remind the Gamers reading them that RPGs are games, and that games are meant to fun.

All the Troll Lords hope that your new year is adventurous, and most of all, fun.