Today's prompt for #RPGaDay2024 is "roleplaying game that is easy to use." Let’s get something straight: if a roleplaying game isn’t easy to use, it’s not doing its job. Ideally, all systems should be written, edited, and laid out for maximum ease of use. But hey, we don’t live in an ideal world, do we?

First off, ease of use is subjective. The one that best fits your style might be a nightmare for someone else. People have different learning types, so what’s easy for you might be challenging for me. It’s all about finding that sweet spot that clicks with your brain. But let's cut to the chase. What makes a game truly easy to use?

We’re going to side with what people call “rules lite.” We prefer to call them “games with a strong core mechanic that’s flexible and can be interpreted to suit the circumstances”, but that’s a mouthful. It’s not about having less; it’s about having the right tools. A solid core mechanic means the game gives you a foundation, and from there, you can build, tweak, and improvise as needed.

Think about it. Games that give you examples of abilities and actions but also provide the means to create your own offer something for all ranges of ability and interest. They don’t bog you down with endless rules and exceptions. Instead, they trust you to use your imagination and make decisions that fit the story.

Oh wait, those are our games.

Rules lite doesn’t mean shallow, it means streamlined. You get the essentials without the fluff. This makes the game accessible to new players while still offering depth for veterans. It’s about being user-friendly without sacrificing the richness of the experience.

Let’s break it down. A game that’s easy to use should have:

Clear and concise rules: No one wants to sift through a 500-page rulebook to figure out how to handle a basic action. The rules should be straightforward and easy to reference.

Strong core mechanic: A flexible core mechanic means you have a solid foundation to build on. It allows for creativity and adaptability, which keeps the game dynamic and engaging.

Examples: Providing examples of abilities, actions, and scenarios helps players understand how to apply the rules in different contexts. Seeing how things work in practice can be a game-changer, pun intended.

Intuitive layout: The book should be organized in a way that makes sense. Information should be easy to find, and key concepts should be highlighted and explained clearly.

Accessibility: The game should cater to different learning styles. Summaries and quick-reference guides can make a big difference for players who process information differently.

Now, let's be real. Even the best-written games aren’t going to please everyone. But a game with a strong core mechanic and clear rules gives you the flexibility to adjust and interpret as needed. It empowers you to make the game your own, which is the whole point of roleplaying, right?

So, if you’re still hung up on finding that “perfect” easy-to-use RPG, remember this: it’s about what works for you and your group. Look for games that provide a solid foundation but give you room to play and explore. That’s where the real magic happens.

And remember, a roleplaying game is a living, breathing entity. It evolves with every session, shaped by the personalities and imaginations of everyone involved. So, find that game that clicks with your style, adapt it to your needs, and create some legendary tales with your friends around the table. That’s where the real ease of use lies.