This article lists 10 tabletop RPGs that readers may not have heard of but should try. Each game has its own unique style and themes, ranging from post-apocalyptic survival in “Apocalypse World” to teenage monsters in “Monsterhearts”. Other games include “Blades in the Dark”, “Dialect”, “Psi-Run”, “The Warren”, “Fiasco”, “Hillfolk”, “Stars Without Number”, and “Ryuutama”. These tabletop RPGs offer a wide variety of gameplay experiences that are perfect for fans of storytelling, sci-fi, drama, adventure, and more.
10 Tabletop RPGs You May Have Never Heard Of, But Should Try
1. Blades in the Dark
Blades in the Dark is a game of Scoundrels, Thieves and Assassins, set in the haunted streets of a dark city. Players take on the roles of characters who navigate the perilous underworld in pursuit of their goals, be it wealth, power, or revenge. The game mechanics are narrative-focused and heavily player-driven, making it perfect for those who want to tell captivating stories in a dark and gritty world.
2. Monsterhearts
Monsterhearts is a game about teenage monsters, struggling to find their place in the world while dealing with the turmoil of adolescence. Players take on the roles of supernatural creatures, like vampires, werewolves, and witches, as they navigate the complexities of relationships, sexuality, and power. The game is heavily influenced by supernatural dramas like Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Teen Wolf, and is perfect for fans of dark, angsty storytelling.
3. Apocalypse World
Apocalypse World is a game of post-apocalyptic survival, where players take on the roles of characters struggling to survive in a harsh, dangerous world. The game’s mechanics prioritize storytelling and improvisation, allowing players to create dynamic and engaging narratives that push their characters to their limits. The game also encourages collaboration and world-building, making it perfect for those who want to create their own unique post-apocalyptic setting.
4. Dialect
Dialect is a game of language and culture, where players create their own unique dialects and explore the relationships between different cultures. The game is heavily focused on narrative and character development, using language as a way to explore themes like identity, communication, and conflict. With its innovative mechanics and unique approach to storytelling, Dialect is perfect for anyone looking for a fresh take on tabletop RPGs.
5. Psi-Run
Psi-Run is a game of psychic powers and government conspiracies, where players take on the roles of characters with extraordinary abilities who must escape from the government and uncover the truth about their past. The game’s mechanics are designed to create tension and excitement, as players use their powers to overcome obstacles and evade capture. With its fast-paced action and suspenseful storytelling, Psi-Run is perfect for fans of sci-fi and spy thrillers.
6. The Warren
The Warren is a game of rabbits surviving in a dangerous and unpredictable world. Players take on the roles of rabbits, exploring their environment and facing challenges like predators, weather, and scarcity of resources. The game’s mechanics are designed to reflect the natural behaviors of rabbits, emphasizing social dynamics and cooperation. With its charming and whimsical setting and unique gameplay, The Warren is perfect for players of all ages.
7. Fiasco
Fiasco is a game of disastrous and hilarious situations, where players create and act out their own darkly humorous stories. The game’s mechanics are focused on improvisation and collaboration, allowing players to create dynamic and unpredictable narratives that are always entertaining. With its emphasis on creativity and humor, Fiasco is perfect for players who want to let loose and have fun.
8. Hillfolk
Hillfolk is a game of dramatic storytelling, where players take on the roles of characters in a fantasy or historical setting and explore themes of family, loyalty, and ambition. The game’s mechanics are designed to create immersive and emotionally resonant narratives, making it perfect for players who want to tell stories that are both engaging and meaningful. With its emphasis on character development and interpersonal relationships, Hillfolk is perfect for fans of drama and epic storytelling.
9. Stars Without Number
Stars Without Number is a game of interstellar adventure, where players take on the roles of space travelers exploring a vast and dangerous galaxy. The game’s mechanics are designed to create a sense of exploration and discovery, as players encounter new worlds, alien species, and ancient technology. With its emphasis on sci-fi world-building and exploration, Stars Without Number is perfect for fans of epic space adventures.
10. Ryuutama
Ryuutama is a game of journey and discovery, where players take on the roles of travelers exploring a magical and mysterious world. The game’s mechanics are focused on creating a sense of wonder and adventure, as players encounter strange creatures, unearth hidden treasures, and overcome obstacles in their quest for knowledge and experience. With its charming and whimsical setting and focus on exploration and discovery, Ryuutama is perfect for anyone looking for a relaxing and enchanting tabletop RPG experience.