RPG Reanimators S1:E44 – TTRPG Scenario Editing and Formatting - Consultation with XPLovecat
Jul 29, 2025
Leslie "XPLovecat" Horn, a book coach and developmental editor, brings her expertise to the table, discussing how to transform chaotic writing into structured RPG scenarios. She shares strategies for fostering player agency and overcoming creative blocks in narrative crafting. The conversation delves into the importance of collaboration with editors and best practices for effective scenario organization. Leslie also highlights tools for creating engaging sandbox environments and the balance between rich descriptions and concise writing for maximum player engagement.
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Leslie's RPG Career Journey
- Leslie "XPLovecat" Horn started playing RPGs in college and transitioned from a corporate career to full-time editing game materials.
- She began with a YouTube channel, then playtesting, eventually focusing on RPG and fiction editing full time for about 1.5 years.
RPG Vs. Novel Writing
- RPG scenarios differ from novels because they require accounting for multiple player choices, not a fixed story.
- Many scenarios written like stories lack player agency, which limits the core appeal of RPGs.
Author Roleplays Characters
- Author Todd Kiesling creates characters by roleplaying their decisions like in RPGs to flesh out his stories.
- This creative strategy parallels RPGs, turning character actions into evolving narratives.
