I'm new to TTRPGs and RPGs in general outside of milquetoast video games. I have two questions.
- I want to play solo. I remember being interested in Gloomhaven many moons ago but Ironsworn looks interesting as well. The latter is a "print and play" kind of thing which is accessible. I think I prefer a fair amount of structure. Any recommendations or experiences with either game?
Tend to not play boardgames, so I can't help you on Gloomhaven. Might be a good pick since it can be done as a solo game, so don't discount that if you really don't want to run Starport.
I can however comment on Ironsworn. I personally do not like how the game is constructed. It mainly lies in how the gameflow is constructed, how encounters act like a ticking clock based on my initial reads, but most critically I don't like how it sets DC. You randomly roll a challenge dice set, and then you have to hope that your action dice plus stats, plus any bonuses matches at least one of them.
It's too random for me to really like that style personally. It also has the notion of weak hits, and I'm going to be frank: hell no. I'm sick and tired of the "succeed but x" garbage that modern devs are obsessed with shoving down the players' throats so they can smugpost about adding problems.
This one is slightly worse, since you can't even make a character who would feel competent. Especially if the dice are not cooperating with you. At least with a set number you can sort of rig that in your favor.
- My kid will probably enjoy these styles of games too but he's 6 and not sure where to start. Starport looks cool but it might be a bit too open for him. Something printable may be the way to go. Any advice for getting him into this hobby with me or particular titles that stand out to you as recommendations?
Thanks for any insights people may have, it looks like a fun past time not just for me but to share with my family over time.
I think Starport might be your best option. Sure, it feeds into the DnD/Pathfinder pipeline, but that seems to be what he wants. It's also designed to be pretty simple so it'd work out. If that doesn't quite work, go for Gloomhaven or even a refluffed World of Darkness game.
There's actually a game specifically for WoD that's kid friendly.
Innocents. The ST system is simple, it can easily be made for solo play since groups don't have to be big, and the numbers aren't too hard. They just need to beat the number with a bunch of D10s. It's also designed to be more innocent.