Dragon And Warrior
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The Warrior stands before the king who tells them that they are the next in a long line of warriors of legend tasked with fighting off an evil tyrant. That is how every game begins¸ but from then on the players shape the setting¸ scenery¸ and the story itself through gameplay. Four roles craft the narrative: the Warrior¸ the Villain¸ the Ally¸ and Treasure. The Warrior controls the actions of the story's protagonist. The Villain invents conflicts¸ monsters¸ and characters who stand in the Warrior's way. The Ally steers the townsfolk¸ shopkeepers¸ and the Warrior's friends-all whom aid the Warrior's journey and send them on quests. Lastly¸ Treasure describes the world itself¸ breathing life into setting and scenery¸ as well as whatever items the Warrior finds on their journey. Players are encouraged to ask provocative questions about the parts of the story the other players' roles control¸ allowing everyone to push the story towards what piques their curiosity. Players frequently switch roles during the game¸ giving everyone a chance to say what the Warrior does next. Questions serve a double purpose of useful prompts to jumpstart one another's imaginations. Drawing is a meaningful part of the gameplay as well. Depending on their role¸ players might draw maps of towns and dungeons they explore¸ or sketch the monsters and challenges that lie in wait for the Warrior. When the players switch roles¸ so do the drawings they were working on¸ allowing other players to fill in details¸ or introduce characters and settings based on someone else's art. There are just enough stats and strategy to give Dragon and Warrior the feel of a turn-based RPG video game battle without having so many rules that they hinder player creativity. Conflict is quick and exciting-a back and forth card game of attacking¸ blocking¸ and maneuvering for the right opening. Characters can be built to focus on powerful strikes¸ quick agility¸ or magic spells¸ and they will slowly grow in power throughout the campaign-as will their enemies. Dragon and Warrior is based on old school JRPG video games¸ combining strategic turn-based battles with the play-to-find-out style of indie RPGs. It is a stand alone game that can be played as a campaign or a one shot¸ for 2-6+ players.