Tarot expert Nat joins Matt and Rob to discuss the basics of tarot, its history and use in D&D, using tarot cards for inspiration in RPGs, the problematic nature of Curse of Strahd and the tarot deck, incorporating tarot into D&D, tips for using tarot cards in a game, crafting the game based on readings, and using tarot cards in adventure writing and planning.
Tarot can be used as a creative tool for writers and game masters, allowing for randomness and structure in storytelling.
Incorporating tarot readings into role-playing games can add mystery and occultism, providing randomness while allowing players to feel they have a choice.
Using tarot decks in a campaign can inspire major events, villains, or conflicts, but interpretation and adaptation of the symbolism may be necessary.
Deep dives
Using Tarot as a Creative Tool
Tarot can be used as a creative tool for writers and game masters. It allows for randomness and structure, flexing creative and storytelling muscles. Writers can use tarot to overcome blocks, create unique scenarios, and develop rich characters. Game masters can incorporate tarot readings into their campaigns. Players can receive readings from NPCs or give readings to each other. These readings can provide hints and foreshadowing for future events, and can be used as a plot tool for the game master. The interpretations and reactions of the players can guide the direction of the story, allowing for a collaborative and immersive experience.
In-Game Tarot Decks
In the world of role-playing games, tarot decks have been incorporated in various ways. In Dungeons and Dragons, the Deck of Many Things is a notorious magic item that can have both positive and negative consequences for player characters. In Pathfinder, there is the Harrow Deck, which connects to the game's mechanics and lore. It consists of six suits, each corresponding to an ability, and can be used by characters as a source of magical power. The Harrow Deck provides a way for players to tap into divinatory powers and can be used as a character-building exercise. Game masters can also use in-world tarot decks in their campaigns, allowing for readings to guide the plot and foreshadow events.
Crafting the Plot with Tarot
Using tarot in crafting the plot involves incorporating the interpretations of tarot readings into the direction of the story. As a game master, you can observe and note the reactions of players to their readings, allowing them to interpret the cards and guide their decisions. This can help you tailor the narrative and introduce elements that resonate with the players. Tarot readings can be used to hint at future events or to create scenarios that align with the interpretations of the cards. By aligning the story with the readings, you can create a collaborative and immersive experience that engages the players in the plot.
Using Tarot Decks in a Role-Playing Campaign
Using tarot decks in a role-playing campaign can add a sense of mystery and occultism. It can be used to determine certain locations, items, or plot elements, providing randomness while allowing players to feel they have a choice. Tarot can also be used during character creation by having players pull cards to inform their character's past, present, and future. Additionally, tarot decks can be used as a tool for adventure writing, providing inspiration for major events, villains, or conflicts in the campaign. However, it is important to note that tarot interpretation and symbolism may vary and should be adapted to fit the campaign's needs.
The D&D Tarot Deck: Art, Interpretation, and Limitations
The D&D tarot deck, while beautifully illustrated, has limitations in its interpretation and symbolism. The major arcana aligns well with traditional tarot meanings, but the minor arcana departs from the traditional elements and instead represents the abilities of strength, wisdom, charisma, and intelligence. This deviation may make it challenging for users to fully understand the meanings of the cards, except through the provided interpretations. The deck can still be used creatively in a campaign, but careful cherry-picking and adaptation of the interpretation may be necessary to make the most of the deck's potential.
Matt and Rob are joined by Special Tarot Correspondent Nat, to celebrate the death of Henry Kissinger, discuss the basics of tarot, the history of tarot and tarot-like decks in D&D, how to use tarot with your players, and ways to prep adventures using cartomancy!