I think my particular blend of neurodiversity makes it hard for me to transcend the framework of a game to really get a “next level” immersion. It has happened a few times, but I can probably count them on one hand and I’ve been playing TRPGs for 41 years

[record scratch] I guess you’re wondering how I got into this situation…

I think the key to the latter is to:
A) have a specific question and not try to come up with “the absolute comprehensive truth”
B) not have any preconceived notions
C) do thorough research.

The former fail on almost every count.

The academics are more interested in integrating theories from other disciplines to either examine how TRPGs work on a more meta level or how they could be used for “off-label” tasks.

There’s a real disconnect between TRPG folks who wax poetic on game theory and academics who are studying TRPGs. The non-academics are a lot of times looking for a Rosetta Stone to justify their opinions about games or typologies that explain why they like x game and those other people love y game.

Such a wonderful character actor

I’ve noticed that the last couple years of college age kids have grown up risk-averse and are so terrified of getting it wrong that they don’t risk getting it right. I feel like mechanical engagement might be because you can “get it right” easier than a narrative.

I am down. I’m hoping to write my Masters Thesis on VtM

This is pretty amazing. Thank you!

Here he is in wrestling garb: KYLE VAN HELSING

He is, ironically, portraying a vampire hunter going after the stable of (pretend) vampires, The Coven.

Seriously, as someone whose assessments shattered the tranquility of many a wartime commander, that was one of the most real moments in an AP. 10/10

A lot of the companies I follow have been saying books are exempt from tariffs (but that’s liable to change) so far

Paul’s poop brings Bluesky’s juice

Oh wait. I lied. I ran Blades in the Dark on Friday as a one-shot.

That is a man who has tasted life to the fullest. A Hemingwayan Lust for Life!