My Overarching Design Principles
Going forward, when designing a new roleplaying project, I will consider these principles to ensure accessibility and engagement, particularly addressing the hobby’s common barriers to entry. Some of these are practices I already engage in, a few have simply been codified or reworded, but all of them form a minimum standard for a Lightspress release.
Simplify the Rules: I will design rule sets that are easy to grasp and quick to learn, with tiered complexity allowing beginners to start with basic rules and advance gradually.
Minimize Costs: I will offer books at low cost, with all purchases at lightspress.com including PDF, epub, and MOBI formats, reducing financial barriers for new players.
Combat Social Stigma: I will actively promote the positive aspects of roleplaying, emphasizing its creative, educational, and social benefits to shift public perceptions and foster acceptance.
Accommodate Busy Schedules: Mechanics will be easy to grasp and adapt, with fast and flexible character creation. I will provide a journaling game option for solo play, doubling as an adventure generator for tabletop sessions.
Promote Diversity and Inclusion: I will embrace diversity and inclusion as fundamental principles, valuing the perspectives and experiences of every individual. Everyone must feel respected, valued, and represented in all our projects.
These principles guide my approach to making roleplaying projects more inclusive, accessible, and appealing to a broader audience, overcoming initial barriers that might deter new participants.
