Jurassic Park: Return to Isla Nublar

Creating your character

Your character is the hero of the story, not some pre-generated character created by someone else. Given my cinematic approach to RPGS, you'll first come up with a concept and cast your character by picking a celebrity to play them. Then, I'll work with you on the mechanics to bring your character's skills and abilities to life. We'll add some equipment, and you will be ready. Don't worry. The character creation system is robust but easy. You'll receive the character creation rules and a fillable PDF character sheet before the game (e.g., a week prior). I'll also be available to help through Discord. While it can be difficult to incorporate backstories into one-shots whenever a player provides one, I try to tie it in somehow. Of course, life can get in the way, and some players don't have time to create a character. If that's the case, I ask players to provide a couple of sentences on the type of character they want to play, a favorite celebrity, and I'll take care of the rest. Even though this is a one-shot, players gain experience they can spend on future characters if they participate in another one of my games. I'm also open to running a sequel if players want to continue using the same character.

Preparing for the session

Players will need the following: A working webcam and mic (we can use video or just voice - that's up to you). A free subscription to Roll20. A Discord account. A character or a few sentences about the character you want to play. I will provide a PDF copy of the rules and a fillable PDF character sheet beforehand. If you don't have time to read it, no worries; you can also learn as you play. Time to engage in some online discussions (via Discord) during the week leading up to the game. 4-5 hours for the game (We'll take a break at the halfway point). Knowledge of the first Jurassic Park movie helps but isn't necessary.

What Phzoul brings to the table

My adventures tend to be cinematic, with the characters as the heroes of the story. I like a little crunch, but don't let mechanics get in the way. I never look up rules during gameplay. I prefer systems where the rules enable the characters to shine. Nothing is more frustrating than a system where players fail their rolls more than they succeed (although some failures can be fun). I believe in the rule of cool as long as it makes sense based on the genre. While I don't mind a more leisurely pace on campaigns, one-shots are all about momentum. Like a movie, each scene must drive the plot forward to its climax. That doesn't mean I will rail-road you, but I will course correct if necessary. My games tend to be more serious, but that doesn't mean we're not laughing or having fun (that's the point). I only ask that you take your characters seriously and that they fit the genre. Think of the game as having an audience. What would they think of your character and how they act? I use a lot of pictures in my games but prefer theatre of the mind when it comes to combat. I don't get mired in details or use things like grid maps as I feel they break the immersion. I mostly use Roll20 to share images. You will be provided with a free and legal PDF copy of the OSRPG Quickfire rules and a fillable character sheet. I like using real dice, so I leave it up to each player to decide whether they do the same or use the VTT die roller (I don't need to see your rolls). For rolls with high stakes, I sometimes like to roll in the open (using the VTT) to increase tension and anticipation. While I have a pre-planned story, the best games are the ones where the story changes based on the character's actions. As a GM, I love to be surprised. I also love twists. I write almost all the stories I run and try to incorporate a twist at the end. If they are interested, I'm happy to provide each player with a copy of my GM notes at the end.

How Phzoul creates a safe table

As a rule, I use the source material as my guide. So, you won't experience anything in this game that you wouldn't see in a Jurassic Park movie. I'll send out the consent checklist ahead of time and will be available for any pre-game discussion. We'll take a 10-15 minute break halfway through. I'll also do my best to accommodate. If this game isn't a good fit, but you are interested in other games, let me know, and work with you to find a more compatible game I'm running in the future.