Why so many random idea generators flop

[Ry]

Here's my opinion on random generators (and here I'm talking about the kind that are idea mills such as rumour tables or NPC generators):

There's quite a few tables or computer-based generators out there that have some great ideas on them, but when you actually try to use them either to generate game content or bail out a GM when players take a left turn, they fall flat (or they fall flat after the first few uses). The reason is these generators usually generate something from within the imaginative space of the setting (generate a town), and not based on its function in the game.

I think of D&D as a game where players, via PCs, are hooked into a colourful fantasy setting, then are presented problems and threats. Complications and resources are added, and the PCs take risks to earn rewards within the framework of that world. If that's the case, then generators should divided like so:

Problems
Threats
Complications
Resources
Rewards
Hooks
Color

 

[takasi]

They are random idea generators, not instant idea generators.

If you really want them to work well in your game you have to flesh them out before rolling them.

This actually increases preparation time. IMO good random generators are custom tailored by each DM and are not designed to save time for a DM. Random generators are best when you want to make the story feel as non-linear as possible and still tell the story as well as you would if it were linear.

 

[Ry]

Hi takasi - while your statements are true for both what I've seen and what I'm working on, that's not to say that some random generators aren't better than others. I'm trying to propose a way that they could be better.

 

[BiggusGeekus]

You may or may not find this link useful

http://www.io.com/~sjohn/plots.htm

 

[Ry]

Ah, the big list. The big list is great for providing a framework for a session. Actually... hmm, that might be a good addition to my list - "Framework" - a way to link problem, threat, complication, resource, reward, and hook.

 

[Psion]

I find the most productive generators are hand tuned. If there is some plot element you are just never going to use, or want to see, then tweaking the generator so that's what it gives you is a good idea.