Game Night: The Gathering

I always lamented the fact that RPGs are so rewarding and interesting, yet seem to almost exclusively attract a specific type. I frequent both a comic shop and a game store; I challenge you to do the same and tell me whose clientele rates higher on the nerd scale. My guess is it'll be the game store.

I never understood why this has to be. Perhaps it's because D&D peaked in the early 80's, when the jock/geek dichotomy was defined by a firm, bold line. Well, it's become cool to have diverse interests -- at least that's what my almost 40 point of view seems to reveal -- and the timing couldn't be worse. Tabletop roleplaying games have fallen back into obscurity. I place the blame on two things: the proliferation of video game RPGs, and WOTC's decision to constantly muck with the rules system of the RPG community's flagship game.

Anyway, I've begun forming a gaming group comprised of people I work with. This is motivated partly by my desire to get back into live play; the snail's pace of online gaming is making me crazy. But upon reflection, I'm realizing that I might also be trying to prove a concept: That pencil-and-paper RPGs are not just for 17-year old theater geeks. By definition, RPGs are meant to stimulate personal interaction; so I figure a group of mature adults, some brewskies, and D&D should make for a pleasurable ice-breaking/bonding experience. Like a poker night, but no one loses money. Well, at least no more money is lost after visiting the game store to stock up on materials.

I've been quite surprised at the response I got to a call for players. Even my boss will be joining us. And a woman! Let me take a quick check out the window to see if the rapture's come...

So, our first session will be in a couple of weeks. If things go as planned, six players, plus myself, will be in attendance. I'll propose that we start with Castles & Crusades -- perhaps the best overall system in existence (go ahead - comment away). I'm sure this venture will inspire a post now and then, so stay tuned.