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Old 02-13-2018, 09:57 AM   #39
wmervine4
 
Join Date: Dec 2013
Location: Noblesville, Indiana, USA
Default Re: How Would GURPS Rules Need To Be Changed For A Computer Game?

Heading back towards the OP's question, maybe it's not so much a matter of changing the GURPS rules for a computer game, but rather adding clarity and specific guidelines for existing rules that are intentionally vague to allow GMs to apply common sense specific to situations encountered in their particular games. Many rules are also vague due to the need to remain generic and universal so the rules can be used across settings, genres, etc.

For a really generic example that is core to the system mechanics, consider skill use and in particular, the effects of a critical success or critical failure. In some cases, a skill explicitly states what the effects of a critical success or critical failure are. With combat skills, there are tables that define the effects clearly. For other skills, it's more open-ended. A game would need specific parameters defined around what the tangible effects are for critical success or critical failure with any skill use.

The needs of a specific computer game will tend to drive which parts of the GURPS rules need more definition or even outright changed in some instances. If done well, this could give a computer game a very GURPS-y feel. It's possible that quantifying how specific rules work for the purpose of a computer game would give GURPS enthusiasts more insight into how similar situations could be handled at the table. Win-win!
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