In The Retrospectre, players navigate a morally complex world where hard-boiled drifters on the fringe of a corrupt society must make difficult choices that shape their path. There is no rigid alignment system, as everyone operates in shades of gray, but morality and consequences play a significant role in the game. Player choices can impact bounties, wanted lists, associations, and even memberships, and affiliations can influence how certain actions are perceived. Here’s a detailed explanation of these features and how they affect the game:
- Morality and Reputation: In a world where morality is ambiguous, players’ reputations are key. Aligning their actions with their chosen affiliations or personal codes helps build a positive reputation within those circles. For example, being loyal to the Vanguard’s cause or adhering to traditional Shaman practices can earn respect from their respective groups.
- Bounties and Wanted Lists: Actions that draw unwanted attention or defy powerful entities may result in players’ names appearing on wanted lists. The severity of the bounty depends on the impact of the transgression. High-profile actions against corporations or the Municipality could lead to considerable bounties and unwanted pursuit.
- Affiliation Consequences: Depending on the character’s affiliation, certain actions may be praised or frowned upon. Execs involved in ongoing scandals could suffer reputational damage, while Vigilantes or Runners seen as too lenient may lose respect within their communities.
- Membership and Association: Players’ actions can influence their membership status in factions or groups. Shamans breaking tradition might face community consequences, and Vanguards must maintain unwavering loyalty to their causes.
- Tipping the Scales: Moral consequences are not binary; they shift gradually based on the accumulation of actions over time. Engaging in a series of morally questionable actions may lead to a tarnished reputation or change the perception of the character within certain circles.
- Getting Caught: If players’ actions are discovered or caught by influential individuals or groups, they may face consequences. The severity depends on the action and the affiliations involved. Stealth and discretion can be crucial in avoiding immediate fallout.
- GM Advice: The GM should create a dynamic world where the consequences of actions are logical and follow established rules. Allow players to make morally ambiguous choices and emphasize that every action has ramifications. Use the characters’ affiliations and relationships to provide context and shape the consequences.
- Personal Codes and Ethical Dilemmas: Encourage players to explore their characters’ personal codes and beliefs. Present them with ethical dilemmas that challenge these beliefs, leading to meaningful character development and complex narratives.
- Reputation Tracking: Implement a system for tracking players’ reputations with different factions or groups. This can help the GM remember how actions have affected the characters’ standing and how NPCs perceive them.
- Consequence Diversity: Offer a range of consequences, from bounties and wanted statuses to changes in affiliations or access to resources. Diverse consequences keep the game engaging and the world alive.
The interplay between morality and consequences adds depth to the game world and allows players to experience the impact of their choices on their characters’ lives and relationships. It creates a rich narrative where characters navigate a morally complex landscape, making every decision they make a reflection of their true selves.