I’m curious if there are any RPGs where characters actually gain benefits as their sanity stat decreases. For example, do they get new abilities, insights, or advantages somehow? Apologies if it’s a basic question, but I’d love to learn more about this theme in role-playing games!
5 Answers
Another great title is *Delta Green*. Here, if your sanity drops below a certain point, you become a ‘Cracked Agent’ who can see things that others can’t and have better chances at performing rituals. So, losing sanity can enhance perception in dangerous situations!
*Unknown Armies 3e* approaches it differently. Instead of a single sanity stat, it uses stress gauges tied to various experiences. Each stress type alters how your base skills function—for example, being less violent makes you better at social interactions. It’s not purely beneficial or harmful, which adds complexity to the gameplay!
Lastly, *Of Dreams And Magic* has a unique mechanic where characters can ignore trauma by refusing to believe in it. This makes them stronger in a reality where magic exists. Should a character fully lose this belief, they’re basically retired from the game. It’s a fascinating twist on storytelling and character development!
One classic example is *Call of Cthulhu*. In the pulp version of the game, losing sanity can actually grant you unique talents, making it a bit of a trade-off. You may go a little crazy, but it can bring some cool advantages!
Then there’s *Cthulhu Awakens*, where failing sanity checks leads to ‘Distortions.’ These distortions give you some powers, but if you accumulate too many, you risk becoming an NPC. It’s a risky balance, but it’s fascinating how it plays out!
That sounds really intriguing! It’s like you’re rewarded for your madness, but you can also lose yourself in the process.
That’s true, but in the base version, losing sanity isn’t exactly beneficial; it’s more about survival than gaining perks.