Bankuei gives us a scary diagram that’s supposed to represent dysfunctional RPG play. While I’ve played and even GMed the odd one-shot that hasn’t quite come together, I’ve never encountered anything quite as as horrid as the things he seems to be describing here. I guess I’ve never been in any RPG group that’s imploded messily due to a clash of personalities or fundamental disagreement on direction. Model railway clubs, yes. Gaming groups, no. Anyone RPGed with an egotisic Wing Commander?
By comparison, previous posts gave us equivalent diagrams for “incoherent” and awesome high Forgeosity games. And he does need to make a contribution to the charity of his choice for the use of the word “Awesomeosity”.
Update: Amadán has some further thoughts on the subject
You’ve probably seen it before, but it bears repeating:
http://albruno3.tripod.com/homepageframe2rpgnet3.htm
I was shocked to learn about a week ago that a member of my main music forum was in Ab3′s FTF gaming group. Pleasantly horrified, I asked this guy if he was Cheating Bastard, Biff Bam, etc., but he says that was earlier group of Ab3′s. I’ve met the guy face to face once, and he’s normal enough I can believe him.
–T.J., who can’t say the same for himself…
NP: Redemption, “Sapphire”
I think this diagram pretty much loses credibility when he compares an RPG campaign to a marriage.
Amadán – you have a very good point there – I think these guys take gaming far too seriously. It’s supposed to be a hobby, not an entire lifestyle…
All the more reason why if there is something “dysfunctional” going on in any game I’m in, I leave immediately. I have no time for that in my life anymore.