The Most Important Rules
“Whenever rules come into conflict with ‘what is fun’, ‘what is fair’, or ‘what makes sense’ (in that order), the rules should always be regarded as subservient and may be disregarded or altered (either temporarily or permanently). That is to say, the spirit of the rules and the story being told always triumphs over any rules.”
While playing this game, use the rules as guidelines to tell the stories you wish to tell and have fun. They are there to provide a dramatic backdrop and sense of mechanical balance. You are not only encouraged but expected to create your own rules, play fast and loose with the rules when appropriate, and make allowances for good storytelling when it conflicts with the rules. If you are not having fun, change something to make it so you are.
Furthermore, we not only encourage but expect and assume that you will take the rules into your hands, modify them, and add new material for your game.
“Whatever is deemed fair and exciting by the consensus of all players is acceptable.”
This game is largely governed by the consensus of those who play the game. This game has cooperative storytelling elements at its core.
This is not a “design philosophy” - this is a codified and expected part of play. It is our mechanical intention that this be honored as much as things like “AC” and “HP”.