In the late 80s and early 90s, the tide of the TTRPG world turned against D&D. White Wolf's the World of Darkness was the most prominent alternative, but there was a big push of new games. We got new editions of classics that had appeared shortly after D&D, as well as a lot of brand new ideas. Unlike a lot of current innovation, much of which rely on just a couple systems like PbtA and previously Fate along with things like Free League's and Modiphius' house systems, most of those 90s games came out with new, unique, often baffling game systems attached to equally new, unique and baffling worlds.
I feel like we could be at the start of a new 90s in regards to an era where D&D is less popular and there is a new surge of innovation. MCDM looks to be leading the charge, and I think some of the companies that were considering making D&D clones might adjust their plans and do something new given that 5E under Creative Commons is now safe to publish for again. Those that want to publish for 5E will, but those that want to make their own games will have to do more than make a slightly different 5E to succeed.
I for one would love it if a new era of pushing back against 5E and D&D's dominance commenced, coupled with a renaissance in new system design.
I feel like we could be at the start of a new 90s in regards to an era where D&D is less popular and there is a new surge of innovation. MCDM looks to be leading the charge, and I think some of the companies that were considering making D&D clones might adjust their plans and do something new given that 5E under Creative Commons is now safe to publish for again. Those that want to publish for 5E will, but those that want to make their own games will have to do more than make a slightly different 5E to succeed.
I for one would love it if a new era of pushing back against 5E and D&D's dominance commenced, coupled with a renaissance in new system design.
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