I’m planning a get-together with friends in a few weeks and I’d like to run a one-shot tabletop RPG. We’ve enjoyed DnD, Pathfinder, and Blades in the Dark, and I’ve run Godbound before with a different group. However, I don’t have a lot of time to prepare, so I’m really looking for something that doesn’t require much effort, preferably with a premade adventure. We’re generally into fantasy themes, but I’m open to other genres as long as it isn’t too silly. Any recommendations?
5 Answers
Star Wars RPG by Fantasy Flight has some quick-start scenarios for Edge of the Empire and others. The mechanics are easy, plus the narrative style is super collaborative thanks to the unique advantage/threat dice. It’s a fun way to tell a story with minimal setup!
I’ve had great success with Mothership and Mausritter. Both have fantastic modules that can be set up quickly, taking maybe 10-30 minutes of prep time. Mausritter especially is perfect since the adventures are so short and easy to get through. Super fun exploration vibes!
For something more familiar, Call of Cthulhu has tons of one-shots available. You can grab the free quickstart rules and a great intro scenario called “The Haunting” online. It’s a classic and usually plays awesome!
If you’re open to GMless games, that opens up a lot of great options like Follow or Fiasco. They require zero prep and are great for one-shots. You should check those out if you want something different!
Mausritter is indeed excellent, and it has loads of one-shots that require minimal prep, just a quick read-through! I particularly love “The Drained Temple of the Brackish Basin” and “The Broken Oaken Tower”. You might also enjoy Brindlewood Bay, which is a mystery-solving game with grandmas!
That helps a ton, thanks! I’ll definitely check out Mausritter plus the adventures you mentioned.
Mausritter sounds like exactly what I need! I’ve heard good things about Mothership too, might consider that for another group. Thanks for the tips!