My Thoughts on Grounded: A Solo Tabletop RPG
Solo tabletop RPGs have captured my heart, especially given my busy schedule writing about games. Even with limited time, these games offer profound experiences through innovative design and storytelling.
One indie title that truly resonated with me is Grounded by Wicked Glitch Games. In this game, you play as the partner of a celebrity cosmonaut, navigating the complexities of social obligation amid humanity’s grand ambition to explore space. Rather than delving into the fantastical elements typical of games like Warhammer 40k, Grounded emphasizes the human experience of space exploration, reminiscent of narratives found in Project Hail Mary or Apollo 13.
Using just a standard deck of playing cards and a journal to document your journey, each card played represents a facet of your life—ranging from personal obligations to updates about your spouse. I chose to record my game as audio logs, enhancing the sci-fi atmosphere. The card-drawing mechanics are simple yet versatile, allowing for a multitude of narrative paths.
For instance, drawing a Queen of Clubs might prompt an update about your spouse’s status. Then you draw another card, say, a Jack of Spades representing a work accident, followed by a Two of Hearts indicating a family gathering. The unfolding narrative requires you to roleplay both obligations, with the Queen of Clubs ensuring that news about your spouse arrives amid the family celebration.
This creates a compelling scene in which your thoughts about the work incident affect your emotional state during your family gathering. Despite the celebrations around you, the stress lingers until that heart-fluttering update from your spouse reassures you.
While this example reveals just a glimpse of the game’s depth, the mechanics are sophisticated enough to build tension as you progress. You can find Grounded on itch.io here.
For those seeking community connections, the Wargamer Discord is a hub for fellow explorers in the tabletop world—join in on the adventure!
