What is a one-page RPG?

For the purposes of this jam, a one-page RPG is a tabletop roleplaying game (TTRPG) where the rules fit onto a single page of letter/A4-sized paper. For the purposes of the jam, a TTRPG could include everything from strategic, combat-oriented adventure games; to collaborative and GM-less story games. The aim of this jam is for people to experiment with different designs. 

Does it have to be a single page?

For the jam, your submission should fit onto one single sheet of paper. The sheet could be a flat sheet or folded into a pamphlet. The game can be spread across both sides, but keep the core rules onto a single side. Use the 'back page' for ancillary info such as GM tools. 

Ask yourself the question “Can a group of players pick up the front page, read it through, then start playing the game without additional info?”. If the answer is yes, you’re in good shape.

Can I include extra pages for character sheets or extra character options, adventures, bestiaries, tokens, etc.?

As long as the core rules fit onto a single sheet, and a player/group could pick up that page and happily run that game without the extra pages, then you're good to go. 

You could include optional rules on an extra page specific to using that extra content (e.g random encounter rules on a hex map adventure) however anything that is required to play the game should be available to the players on the main page.

The important thing is that your submission is not multiple pages of text that players (including a GM if the game requires one) have to read first in order to play your game.

Can I include extra information on a character sheet?

If your game has character sheets they can be separate, however they should not contain information not in the core rules. If you could take the main page and a blank notebook, and replicate all the information on the character by hand, then you'll be fine. 

If the character sheet has stats, PbtA-style moves, equipment lists, etc. that can't be derived from the main page, then they shouldn't be included.

How necessary are character sheets?

It depends on the game you’re creating and the information you want the players to track, but 90% of one-page RPGs don't have, or need, character sheets. Often just expecting players to keep track on paper is enough.

What size paper should I use?

You can use either US Letter (8.5 × 11 inches) or A4 (297 x 210 mm) sized paper. You can use smaller sized paper if you feel the need, such as an index or business card, but nothing larger. Additionally, it's okay for the design to be folded, but avoid more than a couple of folds (in-half or trifold is okay, mini-zine less so). 

What font size should I use?

The important thing is that the design is easy to read, and the text is as efficient as possible at explaining the game. Depending on the font, 10pt is a good size, balancing space and readability; for most fonts 8.5pt is likely to be the minimum.

Is the jam ranked?

The jam is not ranked, and there are no judges. The spirit of the jam is to be as welcoming and experimental as possible, without worrying about being judged.

However if you see a game you like, be sure to rate it and leave a comment, and share the game with others you think would like it too.

Is it okay to submit the same game  to this and to another jam at the same time?

Absolutely, as long as the game was made during the duration of this jam and fit the brief. Please do not submit older games or games that are not one-page RPGs.