Why I Changed the Espionage RPG Title to GUILLOTINE PROTOCOL
As I continue developing this espionage roleplaying game, I decided to change the title from SECTION-R MANDATE to GUILLOTINE PROTOCOL: Modern Espionage Roleplaying. This was a big decision, and I want to take a moment to explain why I made the change and why I believe this new title captures the essence of the game more effectively.
Writing the Game Is Easy, Naming It Is Hard
Writing a game is, in many ways, easier than naming it. The mechanics, worldbuilding, and storylines flow naturally, but choosing the right title brings a whole new set of challenges. It’s not just about a name that sounds good, it’s about making sure it aligns with the themes, conveys the right feeling, and is also legally clear and marketable.
The title change wasn’t just about picking something new, it was about ensuring that the name reflects the high stakes, psychological tension, and moral ambiguity at the heart of the game.
From Bureaucracy to Drama
When I first settled on SECTION-R MANDATE, it seemed fitting for an organization. SECTION-R is the central agency in the game, and “MANDATE” gave the impression of official directives and bureaucratic orders. But as the game evolved, I realized this title didn’t capture the tension or the high stakes I wanted players to experience.
That’s where “GUILLOTINE” comes in. It represents decisiveness, consequence, and revolution, themes that are central to the game. The guillotine evokes the personal sacrifice and political upheaval players will navigate, where every decision could lead to a dramatic consequence. I wanted a title that spoke to the players’ experience: making tough choices in a high-risk world.
Switching to GUILLOTINE PROTOCOL allowed me to move away from the organization and focus more on the story, where individual choices are at the forefront. The guillotine helps convey the gravity of those decisions without being overtly political.
A Title That Stands Out
SECTION-R MANDATE was a functional title, but it didn’t stand out. It was long and formal, and not as easy to remember or market. When thinking about the game’s broader appeal, I realized I needed something more memorable and evocative.
“GUILLOTINE PROTOCOL” is short, impactful, and visual. The word “GUILLOTINE” immediately grabs attention, while “PROTOCOL” maintains the sense of professionalism and strategic planning that espionage requires. Together, they evoke a sense of urgency and seriousness, reflecting the game’s high-stakes espionage and complex decisions.
Plus, “Modern Espionage Roleplaying” clearly communicates the game’s genre, making it easy for potential players to know exactly what they’re getting into.
The Guillotine: A Symbol That Speaks Volumes
The choice of the guillotine wasn’t just for drama, it’s the perfect symbol for the themes of the game. It represents the consequence of resistance and the cost of defying powerful systems. It suggests finality, a decision that once made cannot be undone. This mirrors the game’s central conflict: players navigating a world where their actions have significant and irreversible outcomes.
What I like about the guillotine is that it doesn’t push an overtly political agenda. It’s a symbol of resistance and revolution, but it’s not tied to a specific real-world cause. It lets me explore themes of oppression, freedom, and rebellion without being overly partisan. The focus remains on the personal choices of the players and the impact those choices have on the world.
Legal and Marketing Considerations
Naming a game comes with legal and marketing considerations. I wanted a title that stood out, but I also needed to make sure it wasn’t too similar to existing titles. “MANDATE” could easily be confused with other terms or concepts in the genre, and it wasn’t distinct enough.
“GUILLOTINE PROTOCOL” works because it’s unique and memorable. It evokes the high-stakes nature of espionage and the revolutionary themes at the heart of the game. It’s a name that catches attention, fits the modern espionage genre, and still allows the game to stand apart from others in the market.
TLDR
Changing the title from SECTION-R MANDATE to GUILLOTINE PROTOCOL: Modern Espionage Roleplaying wasn’t just a cosmetic change—it was about finding a title that better reflects the game’s themes of personal sacrifice, decisive action, and political upheaval. The guillotine serves as a powerful symbol of resistance and consequence, setting the tone for the high-stakes espionage world players will enter.
I’m excited about this new direction, and I hope this behind-the-scenes look helps you understand why the change was made. I’m grateful for your continued support, and I can’t wait to share more updates with you as the game continues to evolve.
I hope you’re doing well today,
Berin
