[Play-test] Gramarye: An Eragon-inspired TTRPG [In-Development]

Creating your character

Character Creation is the first mechanic and process I want to play-test, so everything will be handled in-session! Simply have a loose idea of the character you want to play, and we'll build it and test it out! I will provide all play-test materials through this game's Discord server; you will not need to do any pre-emptive prep, but if you wanted to review things early or between sessions, you are more than welcome!

Preparing for the session

You will need a Discord account to access the shared server. You should have at least a microphone for voice-calling, but video would be preferred in-case I need to screen share a section of the play-test materials. You do not need to read the provided materials ahead of time, but I welcome the feedback if you do! All pertinent information for the play-test will be covered in the session. You should have a notebook or some scrap paper for taking notes on the system and mechanics during the session; I may also ask you to take pictures or scan your notes (on a voluntary basis) so I can see more of the player-end thought process.

What Shadow Neysa brings to the table

Initially, no map software or character sheet managers will be required. Gramarye as a game lends itself well to open-ended role-playing over combat or puzzle mechanics. It will also reward creative thinking for problem solving, diplomacy, and of course the magic system. You should expect to utilize canon vocabulary from the ancient language to create your spells, or at least be able to specify the mechanic you want your spell to accomplish. There won't be a "spellbook", per se, like you might be used to from 5e or Pathfinder. Your own ingenuity and creativity will fuel the world! I will be using ambient music, but the initial sessions will function more as a discussion and workshop, where I walk you through the new mechanics and receive your feedback. Once through Character Creation, the sessions will function more as random-encounters and one-shots, where I provide you with scenarios to solve in-character, and we work through how it plays out. As described above, your participation in this play-test is greatly appreciated, and I will be glad to reciprocate down the line with mentions in the final published materials and early access to ordering the final product! If you're ready to live out your own Eragon storyline, come with me to Gramarye!

How Shadow Neysa creates a safe table

As this is a play-testing game, I am not anticipating a high number of content or trigger warnings in the early stages. This may change as the play-testing continues deeper into the narrative phases of the system and storyline. That said, I will still utilize Lines and Veils, which will be maintained for all players in a shared Google Doc and will be reviewed regularly for updates. Each session will include at least one break, and each session will conclude with a Stars & Wishes / Debriefing discussion. Finally, I will use Google Forms after each session where players can submit anonymous feedback on the play-test material and gameplay.