Premade Vs. Custom TTRPG Abilities: Which Is Better?

When diving into the world of Tabletop Role-Playing Games (TTRPGs), one of the most exciting aspects is the character creation process. Many TTRPGs offer systems that allow players to craft unique abilities, maneuvers, or spells, adding a layer of customization and creativity to the game. However, a crucial question arises: Is it more beneficial for a TTRPG core rulebook to include a comprehensive list of premade options, or should it leave that list out entirely, focusing instead on the creation system itself? This is a debate with valid points on both sides, and the answer often depends on the game's design philosophy and target audience.

The Case for Comprehensive Premade Lists

Having a comprehensive list of premade abilities, maneuvers, or spells in a TTRPG core rulebook can be a significant boon for both new and experienced players. These lists serve as a foundation, providing a clear understanding of the game's mechanics and the types of actions characters can perform. For newcomers, premade options offer a gentle introduction to the game's system, allowing them to grasp the core concepts without feeling overwhelmed by the possibilities of a fully customizable system. They can choose from a selection of established abilities, learning how they function and interact within the game world. This is especially helpful in complex systems where the rules for creating abilities might be intricate or require a deeper understanding of game balance.

Furthermore, premade lists can act as a source of inspiration. Players might browse the list and find an ability or spell that sparks their imagination, leading them to develop a character concept around it. Even if a player ultimately chooses to create their own abilities, the premade list can serve as a benchmark, helping them gauge the power level and effectiveness of their custom creations. This ensures that the custom abilities remain balanced within the game's ecosystem, preventing power creep or underwhelming choices. For Game Masters (GMs), premade lists are invaluable for quickly creating non-player characters (NPCs) and encounters. They can select abilities and spells from the list to equip their NPCs, saving time and effort compared to designing each ability from scratch. This is particularly useful during gameplay when the GM needs to react quickly to player actions and introduce new challenges.

In addition, a well-curated list of premade abilities can help establish the game's tone and setting. The types of abilities included, their names, and their descriptions can convey a sense of the game's world and the kinds of characters that inhabit it. For instance, a list of spells filled with arcane and mysterious names might suggest a high-fantasy setting steeped in magic, while a list of tactical maneuvers could indicate a more gritty and combat-focused game. The premade abilities effectively communicate the game's intended flavor and help players immerse themselves in the world. Consider, for example, a game with a strong emphasis on stealth and espionage. A premade list might include abilities like Shadow Walk, Disguise Self, and Silent Strike, immediately signaling the importance of these skills within the game. This not only helps players make informed choices about their characters but also reinforces the game's thematic elements.

The Allure of Unfettered Customization

On the other hand, omitting a comprehensive list of premade abilities and focusing solely on a creation system offers a different set of advantages. This approach prioritizes player agency and creativity, allowing individuals to craft abilities that are truly unique and tailored to their character concepts. The freedom to design abilities from the ground up can be incredibly empowering, fostering a sense of ownership and investment in the character. Players are not limited by existing options; they can explore their imaginations and create abilities that perfectly match their vision.

This level of customization can lead to more diverse and interesting characters. Instead of characters feeling constrained by a limited selection of abilities, they can develop skills and powers that reflect their individual backgrounds, motivations, and playstyles. This can result in a more dynamic and engaging gameplay experience, as players encounter a wider range of character builds and strategies. However, this approach requires a robust and well-defined creation system. The rules for designing abilities must be clear, consistent, and easy to understand. Players need a framework that allows them to create powerful and effective abilities without breaking the game's balance. This often involves a system of points or resources that players can allocate to different aspects of an ability, such as its damage, range, or duration.

Moreover, a creation system encourages players to think critically about the game's mechanics. They must understand how different elements of an ability interact and how they contribute to its overall effectiveness. This can deepen their understanding of the game's rules and lead to more strategic decision-making during gameplay. The lack of a premade list also places a greater emphasis on collaboration and communication between players and the GM. Players might need to work together to design abilities that complement each other or to ensure that their creations fit within the game world's established lore. The GM, in turn, plays a crucial role in guiding players through the creation process and ensuring that all abilities are balanced and appropriate for the game. This collaborative aspect can enhance the social dynamics of the game and foster a stronger sense of community among the players. Imagine a scenario where a player wants to create an ability that allows their character to manipulate time. Without a premade list to guide them, they must work with the GM to define the ability's parameters: How far back in time can the character travel? What are the limitations on their actions while time is manipulated? What are the potential consequences of altering the timeline? This process not only results in a unique ability but also enriches the game world and the player's understanding of it.

Finding the Right Balance

Ultimately, the decision of whether to include a comprehensive list of premade abilities or to rely solely on a creation system is a matter of game design philosophy. Some TTRPGs may benefit from a hybrid approach, offering a selection of premade abilities alongside a robust creation system. This allows players to choose from existing options if they prefer, while still providing the freedom to customize when desired. The key is to strike a balance that caters to different player preferences and playstyles. For instance, a core rulebook could include a basic list of premade abilities that cover the most common actions and effects, while also providing guidelines and rules for creating more advanced or specialized abilities. This approach gives new players a starting point while still allowing experienced players to explore the depths of the creation system.

Another factor to consider is the complexity of the game's mechanics. A simpler game system might not require a large list of premade abilities, as players can easily understand the basic rules and create their own variations. However, a more complex system with intricate rules and interactions might benefit from a comprehensive list, providing players with examples and guidance. The level of player experience should also be taken into account. Games designed for beginners might prioritize premade options to reduce the learning curve, while games aimed at experienced players might emphasize customization and creativity. In addition, the game's setting and genre can influence the decision. A fantasy game with a rich history of magic might benefit from a detailed list of spells, while a science fiction game focused on technology might prioritize a system for creating gadgets and modifications. The setting should inform the types of abilities that are included, whether premade or custom, to ensure consistency and immersion.

In conclusion, the question of whether a TTRPG should include a comprehensive list of premade abilities or focus solely on a creation system is not a simple one. There are valid arguments on both sides, and the best approach depends on the game's specific goals and target audience. Premade lists offer a valuable starting point for new players, provide inspiration, and help establish game balance, while creation systems empower players to craft unique and personalized characters. The ideal solution may lie in finding a balance between the two, offering both premade options and customization tools to cater to a wide range of playstyles and preferences. No matter the approach, the ultimate goal is to create a system that is engaging, fun, and conducive to collaborative storytelling.

For further insights into TTRPG design and mechanics, consider exploring resources like DriveThruRPG's articles and discussions. They offer a wealth of information and perspectives from game designers and players alike.