(edited bc for some reason i called this ttrpg Eyes in the Dark? lul)
As soon as I saw this journaling TTRPG in the itch page, I knew I had to try it out. I was not disappointed. While I am a sucker for these sorts of dynamics-explorations, Beyond the Pale provides a nice slow burn that helps build up a cohesive view of human behavior from a non-human perspective. I like how the specific deck set-up gives you time to really get into the details of the perspective you take rather than dropping you into the “action” immediately.
Sometimes it can seem to drag a bit if you write a lot of your entries back to back, which is tempting. I often got really into character and would just keep going on to the next day despite a developing writer’s block. What can I say? The system is really good at making entries feel satisfying and have tangible build-up. Just be sure to take breaks now and again, as the rules recommend. If you’re really pressed for time or want to do it in one sitting, I’d recommend removing some cards from the deck, or situating your Jokers in positions to get them drawn earlier. Note that this does mean you’ll miss out on some events, but I found the system wonderfully flexible enough during my playthrough to the point I didn’t really notice. I still got a story that was contemplative and melancholic ’till the end.
When I finished, I had written about 19 pages of entries spanning 14 days. I’m sitting here writing this review knowing that I wanna go back and play it again, which is something I think I should say. The experiences you can have and the feelings they elicit are really something else, since in the end it really does just come from a simple oracle table, 2 d10s, and a deck of cards. Amazing job!