TTRPGs and video games have always stood hand-in-hand with each other. Both share several traits, requiring game design, story, world-building, and, sometimes, but not always, combat. In my recent posts, I mentioned how impactful Critical Role has been to my life, as well as some video games that were held near and dear to my heart. Now, because of recent news, I get to combine video games and Critical Role. What more could a frog need? Iāll be going over what is confirmed, as well as my opinion on what the game will and should have.
While it is confirmed that Critical Role is currently developing a video game, it could be a while before we hear or see any sneak peeks of the progress. However, we do know that the game will take place in Exandria, which is the setting for all of Critical Roleās main campaigns. We also know that it will be a narrative-style experience, potentially a āchoose your own adventureā game.
I love the world of Exandria and its characters. If the game does include beloved characters from the main three campaigns, I look forward to the shenanigans that will occur, as well as seeing their place in the world during the time of the video game. It would be nice to see some new characters as well. Since the game is leaning towards a narrative focus, I imagine players will be able to create their character and make decisions that could affect the story. I canāt imagine it being a game that follows one of the parties in the main Campaigns. Weāve already seen their stories, experienced their struggles. It would not make sense to directly translate that into a video game, especially if they do go the āchoose your own adventureā route. Therefore, having a new, custom protagonist makes the most sense if the game features character creation, which brings me to my next point: the TTRPG system.
Since Daggerheart is brand new and is pretty well-received, I predict the video game will likely utilize this system. This will open up a lot in terms of character creation. Since Daggerheart is very focused on storytelling and integrating characters into the world, Iām excited to see how our character will feel in the world of Exandria. Will they feel a part of the world as everyone else? Or will they feel like a stranger in a new world? Only time will tell. The other thing that interests me about the utilization of Daggerheart is the combat. Seeing how combat plays out in Daggerheart, it can be challenging and more high-stakes than combat in D&D 5e. I love a good challenge in my video games. Still, I hope it doesnāt come off as unbalanced or unfair, since the potential for a total party kill is much higher and could cause some frustrations, especially to those who are not as familiar with the Daggerheart rules.
All of these speculations would be great for the success of the Critical Role video game. Narrative-focused storytelling offers players the opportunity to forge their own path in the intricate world of Exandria, providing a unique experience for every individual. Utilizing Daggerheart for character creation and combat can open up fun challenges. It may even offer an easy way to experience the Daggerheart rules in a different medium for those who struggle to digest the rulebook. This game has a lot of potential, but only time will tell if they can stick the landing. Regardless, I will be first in line for preordering the game once they announce an official release date.