??? entries for Folklore Jam #folklorejam

Folklore Jam:

Update: There seems to be some confusion about whether hacks are allowed. They are!!! Please see the clarification below.

Folklore Jam is a tabletop RPG jam on folklore, myths and the people in them. Submissions due May 3rd!

Rules

• Write a short tabletop role-playing game. ‘Short’ should ideally be under 10 pages, and no more than 20 pages.
  • It should be a full/standalone game, and not a module for an existing one.
    • Being standalone means that the game can be played by itself (with accessories like pen, paper, dice, etc.). A hack of an existing game is allowed as long as you include all the rules needed to play it.
  • The writing and design should be done within the 2-week period of the jam but you are free to come up with ideas beforehand.

• Your game must incorporate elements from folklore and myths.
  • Folklore and myths from around the world can be used. However, be sensitive and respectful if you are writing about folklore and myths from another culture. Do your research!
  • Interpret the ‘elements’ of folklore and myths as your see fit, but this could include: small local myths and urban legends; religious tales, epics, worship, rituals, rites, traditions; relationships between higher beings and humankind; cryptids, ghosts, monsters and classic beasts; magic, powers, hidden worlds, etc.

• Have fun!
  • Don't push yourself too hard. There are lots of game jams going on, and it's totally okay to take a break.

Additional guidelines on using myths from another culture

• Follow these guidelines if you have decided to write about myths from another culture:
  • Find a sensitivity reader from the culture you are writing about. Ideally, you should do it before you start writing, not as an afterthought.
  • Do not use cultural stereotypes and slurs as a description of the characters.
  • Do not use your game to criticise a culture your don't belong to.

Here are two good articles on how to role-play characters from another culture, which is equally applicable to game design:

“May I Play A Character From Another Race?” by James Mendez Hodes (on race issues)

A reply to "Tips and thought leadership on playing other ethnicities/genders/minorities" by Diana Moon

Best Practices For Historical Gaming by James Mendez Hodes (on history and religion)

***

This jam is organised by W.H Arthur (@Aryl_Ether / https://aryl-ether.itch.io/) and Flowers (@swordsnflowers / https://swords-and-flowers.itch.io). Feel free to contact them with questions!

Find other people talking about the jam on Twitter at #FolkloreJam