THREE BY THREE

There are three important elements in most TTRPGs: the GM, the player, and the character. And each is represented by three core features.

1.       GMs supply the three acts that make a satisfying story structure. These are the setup, the confrontation, and the resolution. They follow an ancient storytelling form that is still widely used today. You can hit all three acts in a single session, especially if it’s a one-shot. Longer adventures will have their main acts spread out over the length of a campaign, but with enough going on internally for each session to also follow the three-act formula. What variations of this has your group tried?

2.       Players gather at a table supported by the three foundational legs of RPGs. Roughly, these are playing a role, solving a mystery, and battling bad guys. Most game sessions will include all three elements. Each has its own part in the reasons we play. Playing a role is the ultimate form of escapism. Solving a mystery brings on the intrigue we all love. Lastly, combat adds the sense of danger and excitement, so often lacking in real life. Which of the three player motivations do you enjoy most in your games? 

3.       And finally, there are the characters. A party is often comprised of the three classic character types: the warrior, the mage, and the healer. Basically, they represent the trinity of strength, intellect, and spirit. Of course, many parties will add to or vary slightly from this standard. How has your group broken the classic character trinity?