MJ Newman

Season: RPG – Conversing with MJ Newman on the different RPG writing scenes, what are their experiences?

RPG

Series


In this episode of RPG, hosts Dirk Knemeyer and David Heron sit down with writer and designer MJ Newman to dive into the many sides of RPG writing. Known for her work across different properties, MJ shares her experiences navigating the unique challenges of creating for both big corporations and small publishers. The conversation covers everything from the business of selling RPGs in a niche market, to adapting mechanics that capture the right atmosphere, to what makes horror RPGs stand out. Whether you’re curious about writing for games or just love learning how stories and systems come together, this episode offers insights, behind-the-scenes details, and advice for aspiring creators.

Episode Outline

0:00 Beginning of Show

0:50 End of Intro

6:00 Introducing MJ plus her background and what she’s been up to!

19:00 What is it like to write for the different properties that she works with? What makes them different?

27:00 The intricate selling process of tabletop roleplaying games to such a small market 

38:00 Adapting a custom system of mechanics to your roleplaying game to fit the vibe/writing for big vs small corporations

50:00 What makes horror RPGs unique and desirable?

53:00 Advice for Listeners

55:00 Outro

55:00 End of Show

In this Episode

MJ Newman - @NatsunoYoru

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Team

Dirk Knemeyer Producer & Co-Host

David V. Heron Producer & Co-Host

Ellie Dix Producer, Editor & Host of Behind the Cardboard

Kathryn Hymes Panelist

Rob Daviau Recurring Guest

Soren Johnson Recurring Guest

Cody Harold Producer

Avery Paez Editor

Diana Almaguer Support

Alumni

Cole Wehrle Co-Host

Dave Nelson Audio Engineer

Erik Ririe Producer

Harrison Pink Co-Host

Jon Shafer Co-Founder & Co-Host

Michael Hermes Audio Engineer

Skye Larsen Producer & Editor

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