DoubleZero: Space Opera
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A science fiction setting toolkit for DoubleZero: Modern Roleplaying
In the vast expanse of the galactic frontier¸ amidst swirling nebulas and distant star clusters¸ a lone spacecraft cut through the void with graceful determination. The gleaming vessel¸ known as the USS Tyche¸ bore the weight of countless dreams and ambitions¸ its hull adorned with intricate designs that reflected the eclectic nature of its crew. Within its corridors¸ a symphony of bustling activity echoed¸ as beings from myriad species traversed the bustling thoroughfares¸ their purpose interwoven with the tapestry of the cosmos. On the bridge¸ Captain Ariel Horne stood tall¸ her piercing gaze fixed upon the holographic star map that illuminated the dimly lit chamber. The course was set¸ and destiny beckoned¸ for a tale of epic proportions was about to unfold.
Space opera is a subgenre of science fiction that emphasizes grand-scale adventures¸ sweeping interstellar settings¸ and epic narratives. It often features larger-than-life characters¸ intense conflicts¸ and a sense of awe and wonder. Futuristic or alien environments¸ technology¸ exploration¸ and intricate political landscapes play significant roles. The genre offers a rich and immersive universe with limitless possibilities for storytelling. The vastness of space allows for anything from sprawling intergalactic civilizations to uncharted planetary systems¸ providing a sense of exploration and discovery.
The genre also allows for a wide range of characters¸ from intrepid starship captains to cunning smugglers¸ heroic soldiers to enigmatic alien diplomats. This enables players to create unique and memorable personalities¸ backgrounds¸ and motivations. The epic nature of space opera provides ample room for dramatic narratives and intense conflicts. The stakes can be high¸ whether it's battling against oppressive empires¸ unraveling cosmic mysteries¸ or embarking on daring rescue missions. This creates opportunities for thrilling action sequences¸ intricate plots¸ and deep character development¸ fostering engaging and immersive roleplaying experiences.
This Book Includes: Worldbuilding: How to utilize and develop the setting elements you'll need to successfully run DoubleZero: Space Opera¸ including the genre¸ setting¸ theme¸ and tone. Factions: The central organizations for DoubleZero: Space Opera¸ including their purpose¸ how they're organized¸ the resources at their disposal¸ and key supporting characters. Characters: Information on the types of player characters¸ antagonists¸ and supporting characters most appropriate for DoubleZero: Space Opera. Adventures: Elements you'll to run DoubleZero: Space Opera adventures. This chapter covers the premise¸ goals¸ obstacles¸ and stakes¸ and includes a selection of plot hooks to get you started. Systems: A word about using spaceships and space combat in the character-driven narrative environment of the DoubleZero system.
A copy of DoubleZero: Modern Roleplaying is needed to play.
Why a Toolkit?
Roleplaying is a creative and collaborative activity. A large portion of the joy it brings is from making up the things that add to the experience. The reason DoubleZero: Space Opera is a toolkit and not a highly developed setting with tons of worldbuilding details is so there's room left for your imagination. While it can be cool to read setting guides that cover everything down to the last detail¸ in play it can box you in and make you feel that your ideas don't fit or aren't valid. The goal here is to give you as much as you need to get started¸ then step aside and let you turn this into whatever you and the other players want it to be.
Content Warnings
Here is a list of potential content warnings that might come up while using space opera in a modern roleplaying scenario:
Cosmic Existentialism: The setting may explore existential themes¸ such as the meaning of life¸ the nature of existence¸ and the insignificance of individuals in the vastness of the universe. Political Intrigue: The setting may involve complex political landscapes¸ including manipulation¸ corruption¸ and power struggles. Violence: The setting may contain intense combat scenes¸ including graphic descriptions of injuries and bloodshed¸ and the use of futuristic weaponry. War and Conflict: The setting may revolve around galactic conflicts¸ depicting themes of war¸ military operations¸ and the aftermath of battles.
It's important to consider the comfort level and boundaries of all players when planning a roleplaying series¸ and to provide content warnings for any potentially disturbing material.
The DoubleZero System is a tabletop roleplaying toolkit. First designed for action¸ espionage¸ and thriller adventures¸ the skill-driven tabletop roleplaying system is perfect for mysteries¸ police procedurals¸ and crime dramas based on your favorite television series¸ movies¸ and novels. DoubleZero works with any "realistic” modern setting that doesn't lean into magic¸ the supernatural¸ or superpowers.
Lightspress Media is a tabletop roleplaying company with a lo-fi approach. The utility of content takes precedence over ostentatious production value. Graphic elements should enhance the message of the text¸ not act as page filler and eye candy. Physical books need to be compact¸ portable¸ and sturdy. This minimalist aesthetic results in powerful toolkits that are both useful and affordable. After all¸ tabletop roleplaying isn't the book. It's the creativity and collaboration that takes place around the tabletop.