As a role-playing game (RPG) enthusiast, I'm always on the lookout for tools that enhance my storytelling. When I saw The Oracle Story Generator cards on Kickstarter, I knew I had to back the project. This review dives into the full boxed set, exploring its contents, usefulness, and potential drawbacks, to help you decide if it's the right addition to your GM toolkit.
The Oracle Story Generator is a card-based system designed to spark adventure ideas for fantasy RPGs. It works by drawing cards from various themed decks, combining them to create a detailed sentence that serves as the core of your next adventure.
The full boxed set includes:
Each deck is focused on a specific type of adventure, offering a range of possibilities for your campaigns. Let's break down the contents:
Each deck contains 60 cards, divided into the following categories:
Each card also offers four variations to add further detail and specificity to the adventure prompt.
For example, the "Actor" card might present "A Leader" as the main prompt, with sub-options to refine it into a "Mayor," "High Priest," "Noble," or "Monarch."
While the Oracle Story Generator offers a wealth of creative prompts, it's essential to acknowledge the potential for scenarios that might cross player boundaries. Some prompts, particularly within the Contracts and Bounties deck, involve morally questionable actions like terrorizing, displacing, subjugating, or enslaving others.
It's crucial for game facilitators to be aware of their players' lines and veils and exercise caution when using these prompts. Understanding and respecting player comfort levels is paramount to ensuring a fun and inclusive gaming experience. You could also use safety tools like the X-Card
The booklet serves as a comprehensive guide to using the Oracle Story Generator effectively. It includes:
The pre-generated stories lean heavily on D&D tropes, which isn't bad, but you should tweak them for your system of choice.
I recommend the Oracle Story Generator to GMs who are seek that extra spark that can help add more creativity to roleplaying prep.
