Objective of the Game:
FUDGE is more of a role-playing game system than a traditional board or card game. It aims to offer game masters and players a simple and flexible platform for storytelling and character interaction. The system is designed to be adaptable, allowing groups to play different genres and settings with a unified rule set.
Game Materials:
- FUDGE dice (six-sided dice with two blank sides, two sides with a plus, and two sides with a minus)
- Character sheets
- Pens and paper
Setup:
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Character Creation: Each player creates a character, usually with the assistance of the game master to ensure the characters fit the planned story. Attributes and skills are categorized as "Poor," "Fair," "Good," and "Excellent."
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Story and World: The game master develops the world and background story to present to the players. This can be rich in detail or very open, depending on the group's preference.
Gameplay:
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Narration: The main component of FUDGE involves storytelling and role-playing between players and the game master. Decisions and interactions are made according to the characters' abilities and the players' creative contributions.
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Tests and Dice Rolls: When an action is uncertain or risky in the game, a test is performed. Players roll a number of FUDGE dice (typically four) and add the result to the relevant character attribute or skill. The symbols on the dice (+, -, blank) affect the outcome:
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- means an improvement
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- means a decline
- Blank remains neutral
The total is then compared to the difficulty level of the action to determine success or failure.
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Strategic Play: Strategic thinking involves optimizing the strengths and weaknesses of the characters. Players should communicate with the game master to better manage risks and opportunities in the story.
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Flexibility and Adaptation: A core aspect of FUDGE is the ability to refine or change rules during play to support the narrative. The game master has the authority to adjust the game world and test rules to advance the story.
This game emphasizes creative collaboration and storytelling among players rather than strict adherence to rules.
