Heartwarming

Heartwarming is a tone that describes a subgenre of a larger set of media. It denotes a lighthearted, charming, and uplifting style that focuses on interpersonal relationships, slice-of-life stories, and emotional growth. Conflict in heartwarming media tends to have lower stakes and is usually nonviolent. Themes of love, care, food, hospitality, and harmony with animals and nature are central. Heartwarming tabletop roleplaying games are character driven, and bring the motivations and relationships of player characters and NPCs to the fore. Characters deal with interpersonal problems and challenges both internal and external. These games give players the tools to address those challenges through emotional openness, conversation, and acts of kindness. Resolution usually comes through character development and personal growth, which may also represent advancement in the game. You'll know a heartwarming RPG is doing its job when things a character says or does elicit a table-wide "awwwww!"