Connections

Summary

Connections is a Thief Class move in Dungeon World that enables a character to gather information from the criminal underbelly, representing their ties to illicit networks and underworld contacts. In Session 6 of the campaign, Abdul considers selecting this move during Sucks' character advancement, describing it as something that "sounds like a thing that sucks would be into." However, after weighing his options, Abdul initially chooses Underdog instead, determining that the combat-focused move better suits Sucks' playstyle. When Sucks levels up to level 5 in Session 11, Abdul revisits the move and selects Connections, framing it as part of a deliberate character concept: a "big gangly thief" who commits fully to the thief class despite lacking natural aptitude for it, specifically having low Dexterity.

Details

Connections allows a Thief character to leverage their relationships within criminal circles to acquire information. The move represents the character's network of contacts among thieves, smugglers, fences, and other figures operating outside the law. When invoked, it provides the character access to knowledge that exists within the underworld but might be difficult to obtain through legitimate channels.

During Sucks' level-up decision in Session 6, Abdul evaluates Connections as one of two primary options, noting its thematic fit with Sucks' character concept. The move's focus on information gathering through criminal networks aligns with the archetype of a street-smart rogue with connections to shady elements of society. Despite this conceptual appeal, Abdul determines that the mechanical benefits of Underdog—which provides bonuses when outnumbered—offer more immediate tactical value given how frequently Sucks finds himself in combat situations where he is surrounded by multiple opponents.

History

Session 6

Abdul discusses his character advancement options during Sucks' level-up. He identifies Connections as one of two moves under serious consideration, explaining: "Connections is like you can get information from the criminal underbelly, which sounds like a thing that sucks would be into." After deliberation, Abdul selects Underdog over Connections, prioritizing combat effectiveness over information-gathering capabilities based on Sucks' tendency to engage in fights where he is outnumbered.

Episode: "Session 11"

During Session 11, Sucks reaches level 5 and Abdul ultimately selects Connections as the new move, reversing the earlier decision made in Session 6. The choice prompts discussion at the table, with one participant suggesting Sucks could "just be a fighter with a knife" instead of continuing down the thief path. Abdul defends the selection by explaining the character concept: "This is what being a teen is all about. It's about, like, committing too hard to a thing that you're not good at." The move represents Sucks building a network of contacts despite being fundamentally ill-suited to thievery—a "big gangly thief" with poor Dexterity who lacks "a natural aptitude for" the role. The selection of Connections embodies Abdul's deliberate choice to have Sucks commit fully to the thief identity rather than compensating for shortcomings or pivoting to a different archetype.