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"Edgelord," "Edgy," the old tired idea of the lone wolf, blah, or is it also dependent on the game?

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Often, we see quite negative memes and comments when someone brings an edgelord-style character into a tabletop role-playing game. This reaction is understandable, especially when the game involves characters forming a team, and the survival and success of the team can depend on the weakest link's performance. The question of how often there are only performers pulling together in games or teams is another matter. Of course, special forces units, cave exploration departments alpha, or similar can be exceptions, but "hey, we met at the tavern and saw the same notice"? In horror games and games that delve deeper into characters' inner lives than favorite colors, there is an entirely different context for these characters. Characters perform because they have no alternatives or because they are paid for it, often simply because their own lives depend on it. In these kinds of games, it doesn't matter whether the character is super useful for the team's success,

About role-playing games, game mastering, and is it always necessary to win to have fun?

  I've been engaged in tabletop role-playing games as both a player and game master for an extensive period. Recently, my focus has shifted towards facilitating and participating in remote gaming, interspersed with occasional local sessions and family games. I've guided games for a diverse range of participants, including strangers, friends, children, teenagers, and middle-aged adults. My preference lies in games where the trajectory of the story remains uncertain, with the narrative unfolding collectively. This journey may not follow the straightest, most efficient, sensible, or even logical path. Play to find out: The concept of "Play to find out" characterizes a play style with a slightly more loosely prepared approach. We establish initial setups and observe how players shape the narrative through their actions. This style emphasizes embracing the weaknesses of characters alongside their strengths, allowing for foolish decisions, mistakes, emotional outbursts, an