Game Development: Modern Gothic Storypath System

[Raistlin]

Looking for feedback on a potential game.

2024 was rough for me, and I’m aiming to make 2025 better by getting back into the MU gaming scene as a GM. While reviewing potential themes, I’ve noticed some of my favorites (particularly Star Trek) might have limited player appeal.

I’ve been considering combining modern Gothic horror with the Storypath System. Think World of Darkness/Chronicles of Darkness style gameplay, but without the associated complexities. It would offer a familiar theme with a fresh mechanical approach.

I’m planning to host this on Ares since traditional MU environments don’t fit my schedule anymore - can’t commit to those lengthy single-session RPs these days. The good news is I’ve already implemented character generation through the web portal. The core mechanics are in place; we just need to develop specific Edges and powers.

One of Storypath’s strengths is its flexibility. Converting WoD/CoD abilities should be straightforward, and we could easily create custom powers too. This would give players extensive character creation options.

The setting and some theme elements are still in development. I’m mainly wondering if this concept would interest people? All the Storypath System information would be readily available on the wiki.

Would love to hear your thoughts or suggestions!​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

[Jennkryst]

Have you considered looking at Curseborn, the legally distinct WoD knockoff and recent kickstarter game by previous CoD writers after OP decided to kill CoD and 20th gamelines for daring to outperform V5?

[Raistlin]

@Jennkryst I have. I backed it on KS and have the beta document. I can’t say I really loved it. I prefer the Storypath Ultra system with Edges. Curseborn seemed a little too stripped down to me. Though I might need to go and look it over gain.

[MisterBoring]

I always got the vibe that Storypath would mechanically break with anything larger than a normal tabletop group, but I’m interested in this because my tabletop group has had a lot of fun with both Scion 2e and They Came From Beneath The Sea (which spawned my 100% backed by evidence theory that the natural weakness of fishpeople is 1950s era vacuum cleaners).