Creative Games

It is 19 days into NaNoWriMo.  There are 11 days of writing left to reach the 50,000 word goal.  While it doesn't look like I will reach that lofty mark, I will continue to strive towards it.  Unfortunately, this means I have to focus on my work in progress, a sequel to my first novel.  Instead of a story idea, here are some games you can play with friends and or family members to improve everyone's storytelling skills.  Maybe have some fun at the same time.


Once Upon a Time by Atlas Games:  This card game contains elements from the fairy tale world.  Players play cards as they use the elements to tell a story.  The winner is the one that ends the story with an Ending Card.  Stories can be interrupted by other players at any time in order to change the tale or reach their own ending.  Variations are available to form tales of the high seas or adventures of knights and chivalry.

Role Playing Games:  Once firmly planted in deep basements and only enjoyed by groups of lonely nerds, role playing games have risen in scope and popularity.  The games are more than just the rolling of dice and the moving of model pieces around a map.  The Dungeon Master, or other teller of the tale, must create an adventure that entertains the players while keeping in line with the rules of the universe in which the game is set.  Individual players must help to keep the story alive with the actions of their own characters in the various situations.

Munchkin by Steve Jackson Games:  On its face, Munchkin is a card game that enjoys making fun of traditional role playing games.  Players take turns "kicking down" doors and fighting the monsters that may appear.  Other players can help or hinder either combatant in the battle.  While gameplay doesn't immediately lend itself to the formation of a story, players can still use the elements of play to come up with a fantastic story.

Gloom by Atlas Games:  Gloom is another card game by Atlas Games. However, unlike Once Upon a Time, this game does not end happily ever after.  Each player has a family of five characters they are responsible for.  The object of the game is for each player to make their family as miserable as possible before killing them off.  The misery comes in the form of playing cards that cause the characters to be Menaced by Mice, Jynxed by Gypsies, Widowed at the Wedding, or Marooned on the Moors.  The game can be played in a simple manner, but using the elements on the cards to tell a story can add a smile to all the players' faces.


These games can all be used to have a little fun while stretching your creative muscles.  If you know of any other card or board games that can be used to tell a story, let everyone know in the comments.