What rpg system would you use for a 60+ session fantasy campaign?

[pemerton]

I've run multiple campaigns of 60+ sessions: early B/X and AD&D campaigns, and then two in Rolemaster, of around 300+ sessions each (both got to levels in the mid-to-upper 20s); and a 4e D&D game to 30th level (in about 120-odd sessions).

Over the past decade or so most of my games have been shorter - running to 20-ish sessions - because I have other systems I want to try! All of those games could easily keep going, though maybe not all of them for another 40 sessions.

My most current active game is Torchbearer 2e. It's 22 sessions in, with one of the PCs at 6th level. In terms of progression, that is scope for another 30-odds sessions to reach 10th level; though whether there would be player commitment/enthusiasm I don't know.

Burning Wheel would be my first choice. Probably either something humanocentric set in a fantasy historical period or an all-dwarf campaign with a Dwarf Fortress vibe. If not that, for D&D, 4e Dark Sun.

Burning Wheel is what I thought of! I've not run 60-session BW games, but I know that BWHQ like long campaigns.

I've played a bit of 4e Dark Sun, and I think it can work well, but to me - given the implicit themes of revolt, salvation etc - it actually seems suited to a somewhat shorter game.

 

[Randomthoughts]

What system would you choose for a fantasy campaign of considerable duration given the stipulations above?

I would run a FantasyHero campaign using the Hero system (most familiar with 4e). Hero has everything: robust character creation (including customized magic), incremental progression, flexible (magic) item system, base and vehicle building rules. I ran a long-term campaign inspired by Strikeforce so I know it could go the distance.