This podcast explores the Alien RPG, a tabletop roleplaying game based on the classic horror film franchise. It discusses the gameplay options and setting, factions and corporations in the game, different roles and classes players can choose, and other gaming options like Starfinder. It's a must-listen for fans of the Alien movies or anyone looking for a new TTRPG to try!
The Alien RPG offers two modes of play: campaign mode for longer continuous play and cinematic mode for pre-made scenarios that emulate the dramatic feel of the Alien films.
The game is set in the year 2183 on the frontier of space, where settlers face a lawless and harsh existence and different factions and governments, including the United Americas, the United Progressive Peoples, and the Independent Core System Colonies, compete for resources and power.
Deep dives
Overview of the Alien Tabletop Role Playing Game
The podcast episode discusses the Alien Tabletop Role Playing Game, which is based on the popular Alien movie franchise. The game offers two modes of play: campaign mode for longer continuous play and cinematic mode for pre-made scenarios that emulate the dramatic feel of the Alien films. The game is set in the year 2183 on the frontier of space, where settlers face a lawless and harsh existence. The podcast highlights the different factions and governments present, such as the United Americas, the United Progressive Peoples, and the Independent Core System Colonies. It also mentions the influence of powerful corporations like Weyland Yutani. The episode provides an overview of the character classes available, including colonial marines, colonial marshals, company agents, and more. The podcast concludes with a discussion of the game mechanics, which utilizes the Year Zero Engine, a simple and flexible system for resolving actions.
Exploring Life on the Frontier and the Influence of Corporations
The episode delves into life on the frontier, which is characterized by harsh conditions and the presence of entrepreneurs, farmers, and homesteaders. Armed conflicts over resources are common, and the settlers rely on their own systems of law enforcement, such as electing marshals. The podcast emphasizes the dominance of corporations like Weyland Yutani, which operate in the Independent Core System Colonies, where they can conduct business without government oversight. It also mentions the influence of the United Americas, a merger of North, Central, and South America, and the United Progressive Peoples, a socialist block of nations. A state of Cold War exists between the United Americas and the UPP. The episode highlights the tension and competition among these factions.
Game Modes, Character Archetypes, and Game Mechanics
The podcast provides details on the two game modes available in the Alien Tabletop Role Playing Game: campaign play and cinematic play. It explains that campaign play allows for longer continuous play with the same group of players, while cinematic play focuses on pre-made scenarios that capture the dramatic essence of the Alien films. The episode introduces various character archetypes, including colonial marines, colonial marshals, company agents, scientists, officers, medics, and more. It also briefly explains the game mechanics, which involve rolling six-sided dice and needing at least one six to succeed. Pushing rolls is a possibility but carries the risk of trauma or stress. Overall, the episode highlights the accessibility and flexibility of the game's mechanics.
This week on Brother Knows Quest, Ramie tells Beth about the Alien RPG! This tabletop roleplaying game is based on the classic horror film franchise, and it puts players in the shoes of Colonial Marines, scientists, and other brave souls who must face off against the terrifying Xenomorphs.
Whether you're a fan of the Alien movies or simply looking for a new and exciting TTRPG to try, this episode is definitely worth a listen!
