I’ve been searching for good ways to build text-rpgs since writing my Python-Based TextRPG in 2008. With Dryads Wake I finally found a structure that I really like and that can be played from the browser as well as from the text-terminal.

Dryads Wake is a pure text-based game using the 1d6-rules. You can play an introductory chapter on dryads-wake.1w6.org.

Want to make a memorable character or NPC? Get a jump-start for your creativity? Aim for a diverse cast to avoid stumbling into your personal clichés? These tables will get you moving in minutes!

Nanowrimo prep will start soon. Take me to the tables!

These tables are extracted from the German one die system, version rαF: Terminal, translated to English. They are also available in German. If you want something tangible, get the tables and random characters optimized to print and fold and fit into your pocket:

Random NPC generation with occupation and a keyword for portrayal, written for the 200 Word RPG Supplement Challenge 2016. Tailored for shady space stations. Also available as PDF.

Start with the first table. Roll one die. On a 5, move one column to the left. On a 6 move right. Never change direction or leave the table: Use row 5/6 instead. Else select the row for the number you rolled.

Go to the next table. Start with the row for the last number you rolled. Roll again. 5 moves up, 6 moves down, never turn around. The number gives the column. The last column is special: It never applies to the job in the row rolled in the first table.

Occupation

Keyword for portrayal

Just for fun: This implements the ±d6 in Guile Scheme, including critical rolls.

(define* (roll-1d6)
  (let* ((numbers '(-5 -3 -1 2 4 6))
         (rolld6
          (lambda () (list-ref
                      numbers
                      (random 6)))))
    (let rolling ((rolled
                   (cons (rolld6) '())))
      (cond
       ((and (= 1 (length rolled))
             (member
              (car rolled) '(-5 6)))
        (rolling (cons (rolld6) rolled)))
       ((and (> (length rolled) 1)
             (equal? (car rolled)
                     (car (cdr rolled))))
        (rolling (cons (rolld6) rolled)))
       ((= 1 (length rolled))
        (car rolled))
       (else
        (apply + (cdr rolled)))))))

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As additional permission under GNU GPL version 3 section 7, you may distribute these works without the copy of the GNU GPL normally required by section 4, provided you include a license notice and a URL through which recipients can access the Corresponding Source and the copy of the GNU GPL.