Camping RPG Philosophy

Summary

Camping RPG Philosophy is Shawn's realization and commitment, formed during Session 10 of the campaign, that he will attempt to run tabletop RPGs at every camping situation for the rest of his life. The philosophy emerged from the group's experience of playing their session around a fire, which Shawn had never done before. The concept encompasses both the practice of running games in outdoor camping settings and the belief that such settings are ideal for tabletop roleplaying.

The philosophy is rooted in Shawn's conviction that anyone who would refuse to play RPGs while camping "would have to be a real ass." Erin characterized this commitment as potentially becoming Shawn's "fantasy," specifically forcing everyone to play on the next camping trip.

Details

The practical requirements for camping RPGs are minimal, according to the group's discussion in Session 10. Shawn notes that players need only "a relatively flat surface" or "a blanket" to play. Traditional dice are not strictly necessary, as Shawn points out that dice rolling apps can substitute for physical dice. The philosophy extends to games that eliminate even that requirement—Shawn observes that "some games don't even use dice," citing 10 Candles as an example of a diceless game suitable for camping play.

Dayna reinforces the philosophy by stating "There's no reason not to" run RPGs while camping, supporting Shawn's commitment. The discussion suggests that the fire setting itself contributed to the appeal, with Shawn specifically noting his appreciation for "sitting around a fire playing role playing games."

Brad's presence at the session around the fire is noted, though Brad's specific position on the camping RPG philosophy is not recorded in the available transcript.

History

Session 10

The Camping RPG Philosophy originated during Session 10, when the group played their session around a fire. Shawn opened with thanks to the group for coming and expressed that he liked "sitting around a fire playing role playing games," noting that he had "never actually done it like this before."

This first-time experience led Shawn to declare: "This has just proven to me that at every camping situation I am in for the rest of my life, I will attempt to force people to play role playing games." The group then discussed the practical aspects of implementing this philosophy, with various participants contributing ideas about flat surfaces, blankets, dice apps, and diceless games. Erin suggested the commitment could become Shawn's "fantasy" for future camping trips, to which Shawn confirmed: "Yeah, exactly. Be ready."