There is a pattern I keep noticing in the direction of many TTRPGs, new and old. There are three major experiences I see designers strive towards when trying to make their game as appealing as possible to their audiences: three muses driving the fun in their game. These are Tangible Problems with Creative Solutions, Rewarding Character Build and Progression, and Fine Tuned Narrative Pacing and Excitement. These muses, in one way or another seemingly affect the choices made in TTRPG design. But what are they EXACTLY? Well, let me explain.
Tangible Problems with Creative Solutions: This "setup and payoff" is what I like to call the GAME in TTRPG. TTRPGs striving closer to this end engage their players in challenges to be overcome with real consequences for failure. Character death is often the result of an incorrect choice or unfortunate outcome rather than a solely narrative one: a game that will bite back. However, many of these problems can be solved by thinking outside the box. Taping a chicken to a pole to lure a monster to you is rewarded more so than simply rolling dice at it.
Rewarding Character Builds and Progression: This is all about the alpha and omega of your characters. Does your game allow your character to be made of many moving parts that can be fit together in an oh so satisfying way? And after those parts are in place, do they pay off during gameplay? Will more be added, altered, improved, or diminished? How often? There is a joy to be found in a character that feels mechanically fleshed out and is actively affected by their adventures.
Fine Tuned Narrative Pacing and Excitement: These TTRPGs center around stories being told. And those striving towards this end want regular twists and turns, emotional moments, and laughter at their tables. They want you right in the action, and they want, most of all, freedom to tell the story. There is no failure, oftentimes, simply another beat in the racing heart of the story.
Anyway, these are just my thoughts. I made a little chart above, though take it with a grain of salt. I'd love to hear what y'all think. Maybe you have noticed these patterns as well.
