Top 5 Non-DND Tabletop RPGs and How They Compare to Dungeons & Dragons

Dungeons & Dragons, the granddaddy of all tabletop role-playing games, is the undeniable titan of the genre. It’s the name that pops up most often when someone mentions RPGs. But here’s the thing—D&D is just scratching the surface of what’s out there in the vast RPG universe. Imagine immersing yourself in systems that offer not just different rules but entirely different experiences. Systems that welcome you with unique mechanics, rich storytelling, and sometimes, settings so fresh and outlandish, they make you forget about those pesky orcs and goblins. There’s a whole world beyond the corridors of dungeons and mythical dragons.

This guide aims to pull back the curtain on some of these fantastic non-D&D tabletop RPGs. Think of them as your new portals to unimaginable adventures and epic narratives. We’ll explore five notable RPGs, each one distinct in its approach and playstyle. From games that twist your mind with psychological horror to those that imagine a world untouched by the trappings of colonialism. We’ll look at their core features, gameplay mechanics, and why they’re making waves in the RPG scene. It’s time for an upgrade—something unexpected and exhilarating.

So why should you step out of the well-trodden D&D trail? Variety, my friend! By experimenting with different RPG systems, you’ll expand your storytelling horizons and find gameplay mechanics that may just redefine what you thought RPGs could be. Get ready to dive into a smorgasbord of creativity and innovation.

Why Look Beyond D&D?

The lure of D&D is undeniable, with its rich history and iconic lore. However, exploring beyond it can be a revelation. Other RPG systems offer diverse storytelling that can breathe new life into your gameplay. You’ll find mechanics that challenge and engage you in ways you’ve never experienced. Consider the freedom to wander through different storytelling styles—narratives that shift away from typical fantasy and plunge into realms of horror, sci-fi, or even surrealist fantasy.

Imagine slipping into a universe where the rules aren’t confined by traditional fantasy, where the mechanics themselves become part of the narrative. Systems outside of D&D often introduce imaginative ways to advance storylines. They emphasize collaborative storytelling, ensuring each player’s voice shapes the direction the story takes. Their worlds are lush with creativity, often drawn from different cultural heritages or radical imaginations. It’s a refreshing departure from the classic sword-and-sorcery fare.

The beauty of alternative RPG systems lies in diversification. Just as refusing to read anything but one author limits your literary palate, sticking solely to D&D hinders your RPG exploration. There’s an incredible tapestry of mechanics and storytelling waiting for you when you venture outside this medieval box. These games can both complement and contrast with D&D, offering fresh perspectives, novel challenges, and revitalized gaming enthusiasm.

What Makes a Non-D&D TTRPG Stand Out?

What’s the secret sauce that makes non-D&D TTRPGs so unique? It boils down to the characteristics they bring to the table. First off, many of these games prioritize narrative-driven mechanics. This means that the story takes the front seat, with rules designed to serve the narrative rather than the other way around. Imagine games that wrap their rules around the tale being told, allowing players to influence the story more directly.

Another key feature is alternative dice systems. While D&D sticks to the reliable d20, many non-D&D RPGs mix it up with different kinds of dice rolls. Some employ dice pools, others use no dice at all, relying instead on card draws or even tokens. These variations add an element of unpredictability and excitement to the game, re-engaging players with every roll or draw.

Then there’s the focus on player agency—a game style where the players hold significant sway over the unfolding story. Here’s where these games shine: characters aren’t just reactive; they’re pro-active, with their decisions driving the narrative. Also, the settings often explore fresh genres, such as dystopian futures, horror-infused fantasies, or cultures with entirely different social norms than what we usually see in D&D.

Table 1: Defining Features of Non-D&D TTRPGs

Exploring these games leads to creative inspiration, unlocking potential for both players and game masters. By stepping into unexplored territories, you find new ideas and gameplay experiences that enrich not only your RPG nights but your approach to storytelling in general.

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Game #1: Heart: The City Beneath

Welcome to the intoxicating, eerie world of Heart: The City Beneath, where darkness holds sway, and every turn leads deeper into the surreal. Picture a setting washed in dark fantasy hues, sprinkled with horror elements and a smattering of unearthly beauty. Heart thrusts players into an undercity of madness and mystery, forging paths through ever-shifting corridors that defy logical architecture.

This RPG is a surreal treat, pushing boundaries with its unique combination of fantasy and psychological horror. It drinks deep from the well of dreams and nightmares, where the landscape itself feels alive, filled with whispering shadows and lurking creatures. Players don’t just traverse a map; they dive headfirst into the unknown, where the environment changes with alarming frequency and malevolent intent.

It’s a realm that invites exploration, and with it, the constant risk facing characters brave enough to enter. But with great risk comes the potential for transformative experiences, both rewarding and terrifying. Such duality is at the heart of this game’s appeal—it paints with a broad stroke of dramatic tension, weaving a story that is as compelling as it is unpredictable.

The Core Gameplay and Mechanics

Heart thrives on being a narrative-heavy, exploration-centric RPG. One of its most significant aspects is its risk mechanics, constantly challenging players with choices that can lead to spectacular rewards or devastating consequences. Think of every decision as a gamble, where the stakes are high, and the outcome never guaranteed.

This game revolves around character development, ensuring that players are always evolving their roles and redefining their interactions with the environment. It’s about growth, not just in terms of capabilities but also in terms of how characters cope with the supernatural forces surrounding them. Every encounter and experience pushes characters further into madness or triumph.

Let’s dive into some key mechanics:

• A surreal and shifting underworld that constantly evolves, offering an ever-changing landscape to navigate.
• The balance between risk and rewards, prompting players to weigh their choices carefully.
• The constant struggle against corruption and change, where characters face the threat of becoming part of the environment they explore.
• Unique classes and abilities designed to blend seamlessly into the dark setting.
• Stress mechanics that challenge players to manage their mental and physical well-being.
• Ritualistic use of artifacts and relics that offer great power at a cost.
• Mechanics for handling secrets and revelations, turning every discovery into a potential game-changer.
• The Hub system for resting, resupplying, and planning—adding strategic depth.
• Compelling backstory integration that adds layers of depth to gameplay.
• Group-oriented tasks and challenges encourage teamwork and shared storytelling.
• Thematic quests rooted in the mysteries of the Heart.
• Dynamic narrative events shaped by player actions and decisions.
• Consequences that impact the entire group, exploring themes of sacrifice and commitment.
• Detailed environment interactions that immerse players in the setting.
• Multiple paths to victory or defeat, ensuring replayability and varied experiences.

Why does Heart captivate players? Simple. Its appeal lies in its psychological tension and commitment to deep-character storytelling. It’s not just about battling monsters—it’s an introspective journey, facing fears both literal and metaphorical. Players who relish psychological drama and intense narrative arcs will find Heart a fascinating escape from typical RPG fare.

Game #2: Coyote & Crow

Step into a world redefined by imagination and cultural resurgence with Coyote & Crow. This science-fantasy RPG stands alone in its vision—crafted by Indigenous designers, it presents an alternative future where colonization never imprinted its heavy mark. It’s a celebration of Indigenous cultures, presented through a storyline where high-tech advancements meet ancient mythology.

Coyote & Crow proposes a speculative world where humanity took a divergent path, untouched by colonial forces. It’s an intoxicating blend of technology and tradition, offering players a setting where ancestral beliefs coexist with futuristic wonder. The richness of this universe lies in its fusion of storytelling traditions and mythological motifs that haven’t been seen in mainstream RPGs until now.

Designed to dismantle old narratives, this game offers a new perspective on what an RPG can be. Beyond offering a thrilling narrative experience, it serves an educational role, shining light on underrepresented cultures and ideologies. It’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in tales that diverge from the Eurocentric paths so common in TTRPGs.

The Unique Setting and Themes

Coyote & Crow is a beautiful tapestry woven with threads of high technology and Indigenous mythology. The game doesn’t shy away from exploring themes of identity, cultural renaissance, and collective futures. It invites players to take part in a vision where human potential is shaped by different foundations than the world we know.

The core setting is one of curiosity and exploration. Players are engaged in a narrative that continuously challenges perceptions, urging them to think beyond traditional boundaries. The game is steeped in symbolism, using mythology not just as a backdrop but as a living component that influences gameplay and character development.

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Table 2: Themes, Mechanics, and Storytelling Elements of Coyote & Crow

Coyote & Crow stands out not just for its setting but for how it enriches the TTRPG space with fresh bursts of creativity and representation. It’s a critical step in broadening the scope of storytelling, offering a platform where Indigenous voices and perspectives exist at the forefront rather than the fringes.

As the game continues to grow, it provides an exciting blueprint for other creators aiming to bring cultural diversity and unique narratives to the forefront of tabletop gaming.

Game #3: Troika!

Enter the wild, wonderful world of Troika!, where the only certainty is its unpredictability. Delightfully surreal and resplendent in its oddities, this science-fantasy RPG invites players to plunge headlong into a setting unbound by conventional logic or constraints. Here, whimsicality runs rampant, creating a landscape that’s part Monty Python, part Salvador Dali.

Troika! presents an adventure where the rules are mere suggestions and the game revels in zaniness. Characters emerge from unique backgrounds that make wild adventures seem a necessity rather than a choice. Troika! takes creativity to the next level, offering players a blank canvas adorned with outlandish destinations and beings.

The heart of Troika! lies in its embrace of randomness and open-ended narratives. It’s a game that encourages players to lean into the absurd and delight in the chaos. Unlike many RPGs that rely on character arcs steeped in gravitas, Troika! dives deeper into the imaginative side of storytelling, substituting profundity with spontaneous fun.

How Troika! Breaks Traditional RPG Rules

The brilliance of Troika! stems from its unapologetic deviation from the norm. It throws structure out the window, letting players experience RPGs in a way that’s liberating and refreshingly anarchic. From the get-go, it’s clear: Troika! isn’t here to follow the rules—it’s here to create new ones.

• Wild and unpredictable character backgrounds provide endless surprises.
• No strict leveling system—growth is organic, allowing character growth to arise naturally from gameplay.
• Freeform storytelling rather than rigid mechanics, granting GMs and players immense flexibility.
• The d66 rolling system brings a touch of randomness to every action.
• Colorful, surreal settings that immerse players in a world unlike any other.
• Multiple timelines and realities, keeping the narrative constantly fluid.
• Encounters that defy traditional narratives, focusing on creativity over combat.
• Objects and items with whimsical powers that defy expectations.
• In-game physics governed by exaggerated logic, fostering creativity.
• No fixed boundaries in character abilities, leading to unpredictable scenarios.
• Diverse character roles from every corner of imagination, broadening horizons.
• Playful tone and atmosphere, making it a feast for imagination and creativity.
• Unexpected consequences from ordinary actions, challenging players consistently.

Troika! embraces and encourages a gaming experience that’s as much about players’ ingenuity as it is about the systems at play. It thrives where other RPGs falter, finding coherence within chaos and excitement in the unexpected. It’s a perfect match for those who feel hemmed in by strict rules and yearn for a spontaneous gaming journey.

Game #4: Powered by the Apocalypse (PbtA) Systems

Not just a single game, but an entire framework, Powered by the Apocalypse (PbtA) stands as a dynamic system driving a multitude of narrative-focused RPGs. PbtA originated from the game Apocalypse World and has since evolved into a versatile engine powering diverse storytelling experiences across genres. It’s the go-to choice for those who prioritize narrative over mechanics and desire a collaborative, character-driven journey in their RPGs.

PbtA games are distinguished by their focus on player agency and storytelling fluidity. The system encourages players and GMs to co-create stories, each contributing to a grand tapestry woven through collaborative effort. They’re about living the story, every move and decision playing into the broader narrative to create something unique and personal.

PbtA isn’t about crunch or strategy—it’s about the interplay between characters and their environment, how their stories unfold, react, and evolve. It’s a framework built for adaptability and embraces a wide array of genres and themes, from the magic-infused landscapes of Dungeon World to the emotionally rich narratives of Monsterhearts, and even the dynamic adventures of young heroes in Masks.

Notable PbtA Games and Their Playstyles

1. Dungeon World: Delve into classic fantasy with a twist, emphasizing exploration and character relationships rather than solely combat. Dungeon World reinvents the fantasy narrative, focusing on how characters grow and interact with the world.
2. Monsterhearts: Channeling the supernatural and emotional turmoil of adolescence, this game revolves around the dynamics and drama of being a teenage monster. Perfect for players who enjoy intense character interactions.
3. Masks: A superhero narrative exploring the trials of being young heroes. Masks emphasizes identity, team dynamics, and the challenges of coming of age with superpowers.

Table 3: Notable PbtA Games and Their Unique Aspects

Through PbtA, players explore unique, immersive worlds driven by narrative possibilities. The focus on character-driven storytelling dramatically impacts gameplay, offering profound experiences where every decision matters, and every story counts.

PbtA exemplifies the evolution of role-playing games, creating a space where narrative integrity trumps mechanical prowess, championing stories as they should be—vibrant, unpredictable, and deeply personal.

Game #5: Modiphius’ 2d20 System Games

Get ready to step into the worlds crafted by Modiphius Entertainment, where the 2d20 system serves as a sturdy foundation for experiencing iconic franchises in tabletop form. This system powers games like Star Trek Adventures, Conan, and Dune, expertly blending cinematic storytelling with strategic gameplay dynamics. It’s not just about rolling dice—it’s about strategic decisions and narratives that draw players into the heart of the action.

The 2d20 system uniquely embraces “crunchy” gameplay elements and narrative style, providing the best of both worlds for players who crave depth with their storytelling. Every game under this umbrella offers tailored experiences that align with the universe it represents, making sure that the game mechanics feel like a natural extension of that world’s themes and aesthetics.

Crafted for adaptability, the 2d20 system has become a favorite for games that want to deliver both story-driven moments and tactical depth. The emphasis on cinematic flair is palpable, ensuring that every session feels like a scene in an epic movie or series.

What Makes the 2d20 System Unique?

Dive into what sets the 2d20 system apart from other RPG frameworks. It’s about creating a seamless blend where narrative decisions have as much weight as tactical ones, with each game’s mechanics molded to fit its respective setting:

• Momentum mechanics that reward teamwork, encouraging players to act in concert.
• Custom dice pools for risk-reward balancing, making every roll significant.
• Mechanics tailored to each setting’s unique feel, ensuring thematic consistency.
• Fortune points system, offering players narrative-control opportunities.
• Meta-currency dynamics, adding layers of strategy to gameplay decisions.
• Toolkits for both GMs and players, enhancing immersion and creative input.
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• Non-linear progression systems, allowing organic character growth.
• Character creation that supports wide customization, fitting any playstyle.
• Narrative-driven conflict resolution, emphasizing story over dice results.
• Variable skill challenge levels, for balanced gameplay experiences.
• Emphasis on narrative scene-setting, transporting players into the universe’s lore.
• Collaborative scene management, integrating player input into world events.

Modiphius’ 2d20 system has solidified itself as an ideal platform for adapting rich, complex universes into RPG formats. It not only provides the tools to play within these realms but encourages creativity and exploration, making each gaming night a unique storied adventure.

These games thrive on immersion and strategic richness, providing players with adventures that feel both epic and intimate. They’re a must for anyone looking to connect deeply with a beloved franchise or explore new realms with a perfect blend of storytelling and strategy.

Choosing the Right Non-D&D TTRPG for Your Group

Dipping a toe into the ocean of non-D&D TTRPGs might seem a bit daunting at first, but the rewards waiting under the surface are worth every bit of effort. The trick is to align your group’s playstyle and interests with a game that resonates with what you love about playing RPGs. Whether your heart beats for rules-light storytelling or a game that challenges you with intricate strategy, there’s something out there for everyone.

Start by having a conversation with your group. Discuss what aspects of your current games they enjoy the most: Is it the character interactions, the combat thrill, or the story-driven quests that keep them engaged? Knowing this gives you a clearer path toward selecting a game that not only everyone will enjoy but will also invigorate your sessions in new, thrilling ways.

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The gaming world beyond D&D offers a heady mix of options that cater to different preferences. From narrative depth and character development to tactical combat and innovation-heavy gameplay, these RPGs can challenge your understanding of storytelling and strategy. It’s about finding that perfect match for your group’s aspirations and gaming style.

How to Match a TTRPG to Your Playstyle

Matching the group’s interests with an appropriate RPG can elevate your sessions from good to unforgettable. Here’s how:

• Analyze your current RPG sessions: What do your players talk about most after the game? Those are your focal points.
• Explore games that emphasize the elements that excite you: If it’s narrative, look into PbtA systems; if it’s combat strategy, consider the 2d20 system.
• Consider the complexity level your group is comfortable with. While some may want a deep ruleset with lots of details, others may prefer flexibility with rules-light games.
• Assess the game’s thematic elements and ensure they align with your group’s intrigue. Whether it’s fantasy, horror, or sci-fi, the setting needs to captivate everyone.
• Read reviews and experiences from other gamers to gather insights into how specific games and systems play out.

Table 4: Matching Player Preferences to Non-D&D TTRPGs

Experimenting with new RPG systems isn’t just about variety—it’s about growth. As you explore different games, you’ll uncover new storytelling techniques and roleplaying strategies, enriching your skills and enhancing your gaming experience in myriad ways.

Final Thoughts on Expanding Beyond D&D

Stepping beyond the realm of Dungeons & Dragons opens up a veritable treasure trove of storytelling and gameplay possibilities. While D&D will always occupy a cherished place in the hearts of many, the world of non-D&D TTRPGs is vast and varied, rich with creativity, diversity, and unexpected twists. Each of these games offers a different lens through which to view the RPG experience, whether it’s through the haunting shadows of Heart’s dim halls or amidst the vibrant, evolving landscapes of Coyote & Crow.

Exploring these different systems encourages both players and Dungeon Masters to stretch their creative muscles. It’s like leveling up your RPG repertoire, learning new ways to embody characters, interact with narratives, and merge rules with storytelling. And let’s not forget the innovations in mechanics, from unique dice systems to narrative-driven progression. These are the games that set the stage for not just playing in new ways, but playing with new mindsets.

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At the end of the day, non-D&D TTRPGs invite you to break free from conventional molds and experience gaming from breathtaking new heights. They reimagine what RPGs can be and provide fresh perspectives that might rejuvenate even the most seasoned of players and GMs. The variety and vibrancy of these games can serve as a source of inspiration and discovery that may influence your storytelling across all games.

So, my fellow adventurers, take the leap. Step into these unique worlds and let them challenge your perceptions and push your creativity to its limits. Whether you seek out the grandiose or the subtle, the whimsical or the intense, the landscape of TTRPGs beyond D&D awaits you with open arms and endless opportunities for epic adventures.