I've been working on "porting" Abenteuerspiel over to a custom GPT. I want to share my process via a series of devlog videos.

Click here to watch the first video!

Despite my intentions to keep it quick, I ended up with a 17 minute deep dive into how the GPT is configured! The next video will focus on some playtesting. Patreon supporters can try it out right now! If you aren't a patron but you'd like to try it out, just get in touch with me via the email at the end of the post or on X or Discord. Thanks, y'all!

Feature List (So Far):

This custom GPT version of the Abenteuerspiel TTRPG offers a unique blend of structured gameplay and creative storytelling, ideal for enthusiasts of immersive solo role-playing games.

Character Creation

Players can either create characters from scratch or opt for a randomized character from the GPT. In both cases, character creation is simple: decide on names, pronouns, and key attributes: 3 pieces of equipment, 2 skills, and 1 special ability.

Narrative Tone

The game narrative strives to be unique and unexpected, characterized by short, terse prose. The tone is gritty and realistic, steering clear of common tropes and overly elaborate descriptions, ensuring a fresh and engaging storytelling experience.

Narrative Engine

The Aletheia Solo Roleplay Oracle is the driving force that pushes the narrative forward. This engine randomly generates interesting narrative elements that influence the unfolding story, affecting characters, environments, and events in unpredictable and exciting ways.

Dice Mechanics in Gameplay

Central to the game's mechanics are dice rolls, which determine the outcomes of actions:

• Ready and Exhausted Dice Pools: Players start with a pool of five dice, categorized into 'ready' and 'exhausted' pools. The ready pool represents the dice available for immediate use, while the exhausted pool contains dice that are temporarily unavailable.
• Action Classification: Actions are classified as either risky or non-risky. Non-risky actions succeed without dice rolls, but risky actions require engaging with the dice mechanics.
• Risky Actions: When a player proposes a risky action, the game assesses the number of dice needed from the ready pool. Factors such as the character's skills, equipment, support from NPCs, and situational advantages play into this assessment.
• Rolling for Outcomes: Players roll a number of dice equal to those gathered for the action, plus an additional 'stress' die. The highest die roll determines the action's outcome: 'good' (success), 'mixed' (success with complications), or 'bad' (failure). Rolling multiple sixes indicates an exceptional success.
• Managing Dice Pools: After a risky action, the stress die's result may cause one die to move from the ready pool to the exhausted pool, reflecting the character's expended effort and resources.
• Replenishing Dice Pools: Post-adventure or during moments of rest, players can replenish their ready pool. Dice are rolled from the exhausted pool, and those scoring four or higher are moved back to the ready pool, ready for future challenges.

Conditions

Characters may acquire conditions based on their actions' outcomes. These can range from physical injuries to emotional or mental strains, adding depth and realism to the gameplay.

Save Files (Actual Play Reports)

Abenteuerspiel GPT generates detailed play reports, recording character details, the narrative, and the mechanics of each action. This serves as a comprehensive log of the adventure, capturing both the story and the strategic elements of gameplay. These files can be downloaded and saved for future play sessions. Simply upload the file and pick back up where you left off.

Abenteuerspiel GPT is currently being playtested - get in touch if you'd like to become a playtester!

Email: colin [at] terriblybeautiful [dot] games