Published in 2010 by Meguey Baker and Vincent Baker
Recommended for: players that prefer narratives deeply focused on characters and their internal worlds, rather than mechanics
Originally written for Apocalypse World, the Powered by the Apocalypse (PbtA) framework has since been adapted for many tabletop role-playing game systems. The framework consists of a standard set of “moves” available to all characters, with some moves additionally available to characters based on their chosen “playbook” class. Each move is resolved by rolling two six-sided die (D6) and adding any relevant modifiers. Success levels fall on a spectrum of outcomes, many of which require the player to choose and accept a narrative cost for success.
Powered by the Apocalypse games are much more narrative and role-play focused than many other systems. Players take active roles in building the worlds of each story. Play comes to heavily rely upon interaction between the players, both in-character and out.
The creators of Apocalypse World have made an official statement about Powered by the Apocalypse games, and have made Apocalypse World freely available on their website.
Systems in the Framework
Masks: A New Generation
Masks: A New Generation is a narrative-heavy superhero tabletop role playing game in the Powered by the Apocalypse framework. As all the player characters are teenage or young adult superheroes trying to find their place in the world, Masks stories are coming of age stories.
For the Dungeon!
For the Dungeon! is a comedic tabletop role playing game that places players in the role of hapless minions, rather than traditional heroes. Based in the Powered by the Apocalypse framework, players take a key role in creating the world and narrative in response to unexpected scenarios and wacky complications.
Armour Astir: Advent
Armour Astir: Advent is a high-fantasy tabletop role playing game that places players in a world where magical mecha are real, the world is at war, and the players are seeking to strike back at a force that wants to control them. Players may take the role of Astir mecha pilots or take support roles…
