August 23, 2017

RPGaDay Question #23


Question #23: Which RPG has the most jaw-dropping layout?

I will admit, this was a tough one for me to decide upon... so I'm going to pull a cop-out and not really decide as the three choices are both equally solid.

It's probably no surprise that one of those three is FFG's Star Wars RPG, helped in no small part by the awesome artwork they use in each of their books.  As I said in an earlier answer to this series, there's so much of the art that can spark ideas for an encounter, an adventure, or even a whole campaign arc.

The next on the list is John Wick Presents' 7th Sea 2nd edition.  While the artwork isn't always as amazing, the book in general is well-laid out in terms of where to find things, and the art does a commendable job of conveying the look and feel of Theah, taking cues from real world equivalents of the late 17th century will adding the occasional distinctive touch that reinforces this game takes place in an alternate and somewhat idealized version of our own world.

Last (but certainly not least) on this list of three is the Dresden Files RPG.  Between looking like a weather-beaten copy of a notebook with the pictures being 'taped' in and all sorts of wonderful in-character comments in the margins between Harry Dresden, Billy of the Alphas, and Bob the Skull, both the player's guide (Your Story) and GM's guide (Our World) look and feel very much like they could be part and parcel of the Dresdenverse (albeit an alternate one where Harry isn't quite so damned tight-lipped about things).

A runner-up would be the 4th edition core rulebook of AEG's Legend of Five Rings RPG.  While the book organization isn't entirely perfect (still light years better than the 3rd edition core rulebooks were), the artwork goes a long way in helping to set the mood and look of Rokugan, ensuring that each of the Great Clans has their own distinct look and that their core values are carried across to the viewer.

Alright, that pretty much wraps this one up.  Hope you'll return tomorrow to see my answer to the next question on the list.

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