I think it's a matter of the example being simplistic for the sake of illustration. You need to fine-tune the probabilities to your specific situation, i.e., how often you are going to roll, what triggers the additions, etc.

I did exactly this in the Liminal Horror adventure I wrote for the Polish translation crowdfunder. I was inspired by the depthcrawling mechanics from Stygian Library. Never thought to give it a name. :)

Great discussion! I think this does (or can and should) happen at multiple levels. Mike gave great examples for mechanics but let's remember that the main "mechanic" of RPGs is the conversation: clarifying intent, describing possible results, etc., is such a switch.

@gestaltist.bsky.social simplifies Into the Odd even more for playing with kids. I especially love dropping the literacy requirement. sounds like a blast

gestaltistrpg.substack.com/p/i-designed...