A new way to make your own TTRPG, from the creator of Caltrop Core.

Introducing EMERGE8. For TTRPGs you design as you play.

The screenshots to the right comprise the first four pages of the system, which are all you need to start making your game. The rest of the document offers optional mechanics and examples.

Highlights:

• d8 dice core
• World of Darkness-inspired dice pool and difficulty system
• 8 skills that invite interpretation
• 4 Abilities and 2 Powers that encourage collaboration between players and GM

Optional mechanics include:

• 1 Ultimate to cap off a character's story and kit
• Combo moves between player characters
• Combat simulated via chessboard and chess pieces
• Effect strength keywords, token economies, and more.

Disclaimer: This system is currently in v0.1. I'll make changes as we all discover what it is capable of.

NOTE: The first place I saw chessboard combat in TTRPGs was STARCROSS ARENA by Knighthouse Co., and while it wasn't the direct inspiration for the combat board of my system, it likely seeped into my brain after seeing it there, as it was a Caltrop Core game that I've read through before. Please go follow them and grab Starcross Arena! They've thought through the chessboard system more than I have for sure.

If you want to use this system, you can say your TTRPG is “Emerging via EMERGE8,” and add the following attribution text to your doc:

This work is based on EMERGE8, published by Titanomachy RPG. The EMERGE8 SRD is licensed for use under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

Additionally, a link to my Twitter (https://twitter.com/titanomachyRPG) and/or my Itch (https://titanomachyRPG.itch.io) would be greatly appreciated.

You are expressly forbidden from using this system to make games promoting racist, ableist, homophobic, transphobic, misogynist, fascist, or any otherwise bigoted ideas.

And if you’re able, I encourage you to use a portion of the proceeds from any EMERGE8 game you release to support PoC game designers, game designers in the global south who can’t use Kickstarter to raise funds (like #RPGLATAM and #RPGSEA), local bail funds, mutual aid when you see someone in need online–something GOOD. 

Good luck, game designer.