Neopets has released a statement about an upcoming TTRPG adaptation after licensee Geekify released a controversial playtest document. In the statement, Neopets claims that the beta playtest document released by Geekify earlier this month was released without their approval and that they've requested that the document be taken down. "Following an internal review, Neopets has determined that the content and themes contained within the document do not align with our brand standards, values, or the expectations we hold for experiences created under the Neopets license," the statement read. The statement goes on to say that the Neopets TTRPG will be limited to existing lore only except for when explicitly approved by Neopets and that the TTRPG will be more than combat focused. "We are also insisting that the game capture the full breadth of the Neopets experience: not just combat, but the exploration, magic, community, creativity, and the whimsical storytelling that makes Neopia so beloved," the statement reads. "And while Neopets has always included moments of higher stakes and darker themes, those elements must be handled thoughtfully and appropriately with sensitivity and inclusivity at the forefront."
Geekify raised over $425,000 via Kickstarter to produce a Neopets RPG back in 2024. Geekify's initial playtest document revealed a combat-focused 5E-derived game with a playtest adventure that involved torturing a group of drunk bandits. Fans also took umbrage towards sections involving player discussions about sexual content. Given that the Neopets IP is based more on family-friendly and whimsical activities, it seemed like a tonally discordant adventure compared to the original online game. Even more concerning than the content were references that Geekify had not paid writers for the content in the playtest, although Geekify disputed these comments and claimed it was an internal misunderstanding.
While Neopets seem to be heavily critical of the Neopets TTRPG, they appear to be confident that the game will still be made. "We believe there is a fantastic Neopets TTRPG waiting to be made, one that captures the magic of exploring Neopia, that gives you the freedom to adventure across all the lands you know and love, while honoring the unique qualities of the Neopets world," the statement ends by saying. "We are focused on taking the time needed to ensure the project reaches that potential."
