Are you tired of struggling to find a group to play solo RPGs with? Or perhaps you’re looking to create a unique, personalized gaming experience tailored to your interests? Worry no more! Solo RPGs are the answer, and we’re here to guide you through the fascinating world of single-player role-playing adventures.
The Idiot’s Guide to Solo RPG
Playing solo RPGs may seem daunting at first, but with the right guidance, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a master. To begin, let’s explore some popular solo RPGs and their foolproof, step-by-step instructions. These games will help you develop a solid understanding of solo RPG mechanics, enabling you to tackle more complex games in the future.
- Basic Fantasy and OD&D Intro: Kabuki Kaiser’s “Ruins of the Undercity” and “Mad Monks of Qwantoom” are excellent starting points for those seeking a straightforward, old-school RPG experience. Kevin Crawford’s “Scarlet Heroes” offers a more comprehensive story engine and broader scope, making it a fantastic long-term investment. These three products are compatible with each other, allowing you to mix and match as you please.
- Story Engines: To enhance your solo RPG experience, consider incorporating a story engine like CRGE or Mythic. These engines help answer questions and drive the narrative forward, filling in gaps when it comes to NPC interactions, lodging, and other in-game events.
- Bivius: A beginner-friendly solo RPG, Bivius can be found at https://lostpangolin.wordpress.com/downloads/. It’s an excellent introduction to the world of solo RPGs, easing you into the mechanics and gameplay without overwhelming you.
- Frustration to Freedom: This 30-day guide is an invaluable tool for beginners, offering step-by-step instructions and advice on how to create legendary solo roleplaying adventures. Available at https://www.drivethrurpg.com/product/174913/Frustration-to-Freedom-30-Days-to-Legendary-Solo-Roleplaying-Adventures?term=Frustra.
- Hexcrawl Adventures: For those interested in Basic Fantasy, consider giving Hexcrawl Adventures a try. The procedures, Adventure log templates, and video demonstrations can be found at https://www.basicfantasy.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=19&t=4183.
- Starting with a Familiar Game Engine: If you’re already well-versed in a particular game engine like Basic Fantasy or OD&D, it’s easier to start by adding solo gaming elements to that engine bit by bit. This method allows for a more natural transition into solo RPGs.
Now that we’ve introduced you to some of the best solo RPGs for beginners, let’s explore additional resources to enhance your solo gaming experience.
- Players Guide to Solo Roleplay: This comprehensive guide, available at https://www.drivethrurpg.com/product/335525/Players-Guide-to-Solo-Roleplay, will help you navigate the world of solo RPGs with ease.
- The Wandering Knight: A solo RPG adventure that can be found at https://www.drivethrurpg.com/product/352555/The-Wandering-Knight.
- SAALT: Dubbed “the simplest ruleset of the World,” SAALT is available at https://www.drivethrurpg.com/product/316321/SAALT–The-simplest-ruleset-of-the-World.
- Brian Washburn’s Solo RPG Collection: Dive into the world of Brian Washburn’s solo RPGs at https://www.
drivethrurpg.com/browse/pub/12459/Brian-Washburn.
- Bitter Birds Baking Brittle Bread: For those who enjoy “writing with dice,” this unique and imaginative RPG is available at https://www.drivethrurpg.com/product/340720/Bitter-Birds-Baking-Brittle-Bread-Concrete-Postmodern-Hyperfantasy-Unstory-Roleplaying.
- Tunnels and Trolls: Explore the world of solo scenarios with Tunnels and Trolls, available at https://bundleofholding.com/presents/MoreTunnels.
- Me, Myself and Die: This YouTube series offers valuable insights into the world-building process and can be applied to various game systems. Check it out at https://www.youtube.com/c/MeMyselfandDie.
- Geek Gamers’ Solo RPG Tutorials: For an in-depth look at solo RPGs and how to get started, check out Geek Gamers’ “Solo RPG Tutorial” and “How to Start a Solo RPG” videos on YouTube.
- Ironsworn: This free, solo RPG offers a fantastic starting point for beginners. If you’re new to RPGs in general, give Ironsworn a try.
- Lone Wolf: Explore the Lone Wolf series of gamebooks, available at https://bundleofholding.com/presents/LoneWolf2021. These books offer a unique blend of interactive fiction and RPG elements.
- Basic Fantasy Solo Roleplay Adventures: If you’re a fan of Basic Fantasy, consider trying these solo roleplay adventures: https://www.basicfantasy.org/forums/download/file.php?id=4878 and https://www.basicfantasy.org/forums/download/file.php?id=5009.
- Mythic GME (Game Master Emulator): Learn the ins and outs of solo RPGs with Mythic GME, which offers an excellent description of how to play RPGs solo. A great resource, even if you don’t end up using all of its individual parts.
- Trevor Devall’s Ironsworn Videos: For a more visual guide to Ironsworn, check out Trevor Devall’s instructional videos at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zVxJ3exjfgI.
- Interactive Fiction: Start with interactive fiction like Warlock of Firetop Mountain or Fabled Lands to familiarize yourself with the core concepts of solo play. These self-contained adventures provide a solid foundation for solo RPGs.
- Flying Buffalo’s Solo RPG Collection: Explore the world of solo RPGs with Flying Buffalo’s collection, available at https://www.drivethrurpg.com/browse/pub/2238/Flying-Buffalo.
- DS Homebrews and Lone Wolf Game Books: Try out the Lone Wolf game books through Project Aion or play the DS port using an emulator for a unique solo RPG experience.
- Check out our Project Showcase in: https://sparuh.com/project/
Once you’ve familiarized yourself with these resources and games, you’ll be well-equipped to embark on your solo RPG journey. Remember, the key to solo RPG success lies in your imagination and creativity. So go ahead, step into the shoes of your characters, and create your own adventures in the vast worlds of your choosing. Happy gaming!