Dirk and David chat with Meguey Baker about her tabletop RPG Apocalypse World and writing in general. The discussion covers Apocalypse World’s approach to the post-apocalyptic theme and how the writing and mechanical design helps players feel like they are the movers and shakers with a vision to change their post-apocalyptic world.

Episode Outline

01:08 A brief overview of Apocalypse World

04:04 Why did Meguey and Vincent want to make a postapocalyptic game?

06:35 Character creation in Apocalypse World, and what it brings to the game’s theme

09:27 A different, more thematically engrossing approach to leveling up in Apocalypse World

11:38 How are the playbooks similar and different to other game rulebooks?

14:09 Structural differences in regards to both game length and campaign length when compared to other RPGs

21:48 How terms like MC instead of GM or the character archetype names affect the theme and experience

25:55 The inclusion of sex moves for each character type, and how it started conversations about sexuality and intimacy

29:38 Discussing the personalized, bold, assertive, and colorful prose of Apocalypse World

34:24 Tips for finding a personalized and appropriate voice in your own work

36:15 How the violence in RPG games helps people young and old grapple with questions of mortality and emotional literacy

39:07 How Meguey approaches her role as a writer, and how words shape gameplay and theme

45:25 Discussing the Powered by the Apocalypse system, and how to make the system (or any RPG system) work for the designer’s vision

50:57 Advice for other designers on bringing theme to life in their own roleplaying games