Hello,
I have run rpgs since 1992. For context I too fell in love with the more mature stylings in the World of Darkness and Black Dog Publishing. I ran Mage: The Ascension at tables and as larp for personal and organizational games locally, nationally, and internationally for at least twelve years.
My younger-self enjoyed portraying the vile protagonists as much as the ‘heroes’. My angst informed my storytelling as did my desire for underdogs and anti heroes to rise and overthrow their opposition and writhe in gory victory. To this day I still love monsters and the narratives that surround them; yet I have grown to see these themes for what they are and keep the fantasy in its rightful place, one of exploration in the mind.
Sickest Witch is deplorable and that is its most endearing feature. When we challenge ourselves with 18+ mature themes, we explore morality and ethics. Critical exploration should never stop. We as game runners and players should all continue to connect through making space to investigate the ambiguities of our culture and society while questioning the systems that we are all beholdened to. I learned these lessons from White Wolf and by continuing my education beyond just playing games.
I admit I made an oversight with Sickest Witch; I thought I had participated in the crowdfunding campaign, and I did not; mea culpa. I have hastily corrected my error and acquired a digtial copy and will do so physically in the future.
We should listen to our audiences, their good and bad feedback which helps us share information in the best way possible. We cannot always get it right but we can correct course. Open dialogue is the way forward. We also must remember to be kind and make space for clear communication. I cannot think of a more important thing for us to do at the gaming table.
You should be utterly proud of yourself and the efforts you go to be a supportive creator.
I deeply hope you know that when you have haters, you have lovers of your work as well.
“Art should comfort the disturbed and disturb the comfortable.” ~Mexican-American poet and educator, Cesar A. Cruz
Thank you for always for seeking truth, wisdom, and kindness.
Keep punching up.
Bryan J. McLean