Hi everyone
I have some ambitious gamebook ideas, but I think that the sensible course of action would be to begin with something simple first. So here it is:
You are the last hero in a realistic fantasy world that no longer needs or wants adventurers. Political alliances, regional militia, and economic treaties ensure (reasonable) stability and prosperity. There are no more dragons to be slain; no more damsels to be rescued. The swashbuckling exploits of long-deceased champions are only vaguely remembered in bedtime stories and campfire tales. You are all that remains of a once heroic past: an ageing hermit, ostracised by a disbelieving and increasingly bureaucratic world. Then, one day, an ancient evil returns and presents you with the opportunity of one final quest.
One one hand, this is intended to be an entertaining and familiar good vs evil story. However, it is also intended to challenge readers with moral and intellectual ambiguity:
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What does it mean to be a hero in a world that doesn't want to be saved?
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Is heroism selfless, or motivated by personal insecurity?
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Do we need heroes who "play outside the rules", or do we need better "rules"?
To be clear: this will not be a philosophical treatise. It will be an entertaining and challenging gamebook, but one that is as thought-provoking as it is engaging.
I would greatly appreciate any feedback (i.e. does this sound like a storygame that you would enjoy?)