RAW

Rules as Written

In a RAW session, a professional Game Master adheres closely to the published rules and uses the books to guide every decision. Expect precise DCs, listed modifiers, and conditions applied exactly as written. When a corner case arises, the GM pauses briefly to check the source, then continues. House rules are minimal and stated upfront. Dice outcomes are final. Monster stat blocks and player abilities operate according to the text, not by feel, creating a shared understanding of how actions, spells, and equipment function.

This style suits players who enjoy mastering mechanics, tactical teamwork, and clear boundaries. It’s great for beginners who want to learn the system correctly, and for groups that value impartial rulings at the table or in team events. It pairs well with detailed combat, grid maps, digital character sheets, and virtual tabletop automation. If you want to compare rules-heavy or lighter options across systems, browse our overview of game systems to find a suitable fit, then book a session with one of our Game Masters.

Common questions

How does Rules as Written differ from rulings-first?

RAW uses the published procedures and exact wording to determine outcomes. A rulings-first table relies on the GM’s judgement to handle edge cases. RAW sacrifices some flexibility for consistent odds, stable DCs, and repeatable tactics.

Is RAW suitable for beginners or children?

Yes, it teaches new players the mechanics accurately and sets clear expectations. It is suitable for kids who enjoy structure and numbers; very young children might prefer a simpler, story-driven approach. Inform the GM about the group’s experience and ages so they can adjust the pace of rules explanations and tailor encounter complexity.

Will strict rules hinder the pace of a one-shot or team event?

A professional Game Master prepares quick references and common procedure summaries to maintain a steady pace. Brief rule checks can occur, but digital sheets and a clear turn structure ensure things keep moving. In team events, strict rules provide transparent outcomes and minimise debate. In a one-shot, you experience a focused scenario with firm, consistent decisions.

Which game systems are best suited to a strict RAW approach?

Crunchy systems shine. Pathfinder 2e, Starfinder, D&D 5e, Shadowrun, and GURPS work well because actions and modifiers are clearly defined. Very rules-light games like FATE or PbtA rely more on GM judgement, so the feel is less strictly RAW. To compare options, see systems.

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Popular game systems

  • Dungeons & Dragons

    • High Fantasy +7
    • 1 – 7 players
    • Moderate rules

    Forge your own fantasy tale with Dungeons & Dragons. Create a party of brave heroes, outsmart traps, negotiate with dragons, and claim treasure in vibrant worlds. Imagine the camaraderie of The Lord of the Rings, but you decide the paths, the battles, and the conclusion.

    View system: Dungeons & Dragons
  • Call of Cthulhu

    • Cosmic Horror +7
    • 2 – 6 players
    • Moderate rules

    Call of Cthulhu is the classic game of investigative cosmic horror. Take on the role of doomed investigators delving into occult mysteries and the fragility of sanity.

    View system: Call of Cthulhu
  • Daggerheart

    • High Fantasy +7
    • 2 – 6 players
    • Moderate rules

    Daggerheart is a high-fantasy RPG where every roll uses Hope and Fear d12s. Grand heroics meet significant consequences in quick, story-driven play.

    View system: Daggerheart
  • Vampire: The Masquerade

    • Vampire +7
    • 2 – 6 players
    • Moderate rules

    Vampire: The Masquerade is a modern-night roleplaying game centred around hunger, power, and secrecy. Imagine Interview with the Vampire, but you’re in control. Plot, seduce, and endure as a coterie while a professional Game Master brings a city of dark politics to life.

    View system: Vampire: The Masquerade
  • Cyberpunk

    • Cyberpunk +7
    • 2 – 6 players
    • Moderate rules

    Dominate the neon sprawl with Cyberpunk RED, the near-future game of mercenaries, megacorps, and tough decisions from R. Talsorian Games. Experience fast, lethal action, sleek technology, and high-stakes heists. If you're familiar with Cyberpunk 2077, you already appreciate the grit and flair.

    View system: Cyberpunk
  • Lancer

    • Mecha +7
    • 2 – 5 players
    • Comprehensive rules

    Pilot a custom-built mech in high-stakes missions that combine sharp tactics with character drama. Lancer offers intense battles and expansive sci-fi themes about duty, politics, and hope. If you enjoy Gundam, you'll feel right at home.

    View system: Lancer
  • Starfinder

    • Space Opera +6
    • 2 – 6 players
    • Comprehensive rules

    Starfinder is Paizo’s science-fantasy adventure filled with blaster battles, spell-slinging technomancers, and starship confrontations. Imagine Mass Effect but with magic. Our Game Masters lead you through bizarre worlds, daring heists, and alien enigmas that reward collaboration and courageous decisions.

    View system: Starfinder
  • Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay

    • Dark Fantasy +7
    • 2 – 6 players
    • Comprehensive rules

    Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay immerses you in the Old World, a grim, disease-ridden realm filled with cults, corruption, and tough decisions. Imagine The Witcher, but with darker humour and even worse odds. Expect gritty investigations, deadly battles, and chaotic magic, all led by our Game Masters.

    View system: Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay
  • ALIEN: The Roleplaying Game

    • Survival Horror +7
    • 2 – 5 players
    • Moderate rules

    Stalk the darkness between the stars with ALIEN: The Roleplaying Game, a cinematic survival horror experience. Stress fuels panic and tough decisions as you fight to survive. If Ridley Scott's Alien captivated you, this brings that same cold-sweat dread to the table.

    View system: ALIEN: The Roleplaying Game

What players think

  • Ruby was fantastic; this was our group’s first DnD experience, and she helped everyone grasp the rules and enjoy themselves.

    Adam

  • We had a fantastic time; the boys really enjoyed their campaign, and Evan was excellent. I would definitely recommend Evan. Thank you!

    Cheidhia

  • Geert was a lot of fun and very enthusiastic! We were in stitches laughing :D

    Wessel

  • It was an amazing experience for the girls! Thank you, Marie! You were incredibly well prepared, the girls were captivated by your every word, and it felt like you had been playing together for years! Looking forward to seeing you next time!

    Annick

  • Tom was fantastic! He was really great with the kids and patient with his explanations. It was a wonderful evening and definitely worth doing again! The children asked the next day when we would be doing this again.

    Danny

  • First of all, I want to say that Sebastian was really great as a DM. For his first run as a booked DM, he did a fantastic job. The 3 stars refer to the following: 1. We were disappointed that the adventure was labelled a One Shot yet wasn't a complete story. Discovering that there are two more parts wasn't very positive for us, as it meant there was no satisfying conclusion to the story. 2. As new players, it was difficult for us to understand the English character sheets in such a short time. In German, it would have been much easier. Even receiving the character sheets a few days in advance would have been helpful for preparation. 3. More guidance would be beneficial. Especially for beginners, a more linear one shot would have been preferable. We wasted a large portion of the adventure time doing unnecessary things because we didn't really know how the game worked. Overall, I think the StoryForgers concept is really good and I see a lot of potential in it, especially for introducing new players to D&D. I hope you don't take my feedback the wrong way but see it as honest criticism. Cheers, Mario

    Mario

  • Bryan was exceptional. We had a group with varying levels of experience, and he managed to keep everyone engaged and involved. His positive attitude made the game enjoyable for all. I really appreciated how he could clearly explain what was needed from our less experienced players while also keeping our more seasoned players on their toes with his extensive knowledge of the game. Everyone in our party had a fantastic time thanks to Bryan.

    Jeremy

  • Dayron was fantastic. Well-prepared, punctual, and had a brilliant sense of humour.

    Corey

  • Dayron was fantastic; he provided an excellent experience. Thanks!

    Casey

    The Merry Meeple

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