Would you play the greatest RPG in the world even if combat was decided by rock paper scissors?

Genuine question because RP Gs (and CRP Gs) have a problem with combat mechanics because of the focus things like the overall setting or story,but I've found despite this I'll still play them because I actually enjoy the story they're telling

So what if instead of actual combat everthing was decided by rock paper scissors?No need for anything complex or difficult when the focus is on the role playing elements,just a good fashioned game of rock paper scissors

Unless it has many other things to offer other than story, then no.

I'm fine with an incredibly basic combat system, but not so much if it's actually just pure luck. At that point, you'd just save scum until you get past, so the combat just pads play time and the game would be better off without combat at all.

I've played other games based on luck, so I don't see why not.

Last Word has a strategic (non-luck-based) combat system like that. It's a good game.

(It works because of having to balance competing needs - prevent damage, inflict damage, and build up energy - and often you need to use 'scissors' even when your opponent uses 'rock' in order to deliver a devastating retort a few turns later and put them on the defensive. Victory depends on figuring out a rhythm for each opponent that lets you accomplish two out of three of your goals each turn more often than them.)

Edited by Noaqiyeum on Oct 22nd 2022 at 10:36:31 AM

Well, looking at the Yugioh rpg's like The Sacred Cards, it does exist... kind of. But it's more complex enough where it's less of an issue.

If isn't remotely complex, then no thanks. I like the idea of stuff like advantages, as it creates legitimately strategy. But if we're talking about 3 types, then it's too small for me to enjoy.

If it's the "greatest in the world", either it uses the RPS mechanic well or everything else it has going for it is so amazing as to make up for its poor combat. So, probably, depending on whether the story was something of interest to us.