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(+3)

gameplay review! I’ve played this a bit since buying it and I have mixed feelings. For starters, I really enjoy the book’s aesthetic, how print friendly it is, and the vibes it creates through its stripped-back writing. You get a lot with a little. That being said, it’s the “little” part I take issue with. 

The game is too rules-bare imo. When I first started, I really struggled to know what to do. The rules are setup in a way that lends itself to someone who has a grasp on how the game flows already. For me, I think I prefer a bit more direction on these kinds of games. Full disclosure, this was my first time playing a journaling game so I’m still learning how they work. I think it would be helpful to have some example play to help get off the ground for absolute beginners?


I may also simply lack creativity in this department. Overall, the systems are interesting and the rules are pretty tight, but maybe too tight. I’d still recommend buying it.

(+1)

Thanks for checking out HARDCASE and giving thoughtful feedback! I'm really touched that you chose it as your first solo/journaling game, and I'm sorry it was a bit of a bumpy ride.

HC1e is more of a box of parts than anything else - which I don't say as a defense of it, but an accurate reflection on what I made. If you want to see some experiments in adding more structure, HC Mini boils the game down into a smaller, week-long experience with clearer guardrails, while the Mysteries in TRUTHSEEKER are meant to be a similar "What do I actually DO in this?" option. It's definitely something on my mind as I work on HC2e, which'll have the benefit of being 60ish pages instead of 24; I'm enjoying the room to stretch my legs a little bit.

I also want to shout out THE PHANTOM OF THE MARIA SERAPH as a great little HARDCASE 'adventure' and a format I'd love to imitate in the future. It definitely zooms in play in a way that I find really exciting and comprehensible.

(+2)

thanks for the reply! I appreciate the clarification on your design ethos :) 

I’ll give these tips a go once I get another quiet night! I’m very much looking forward to what you are working on.