They considered themselves the most advanced generations. They invented machines that ruled the land, air and sea; they created electronic and mechanical aids for every task, no matter how menial; they bent nature to their will in every part of the globe; and they burned the resources of the world with no concern for the future.
When the reality of their situation sank in, it was too late. Oil reserves dwindled, coal seams ran out, forests were depleted, and the water began to rise. Before the first bombs fell it was too late, but that didn’t stop the super powers. Wars raged, brief but intense, as the world powers battled over the last few scraps of cheap energy. When the wars ended, no nation was left standing. Those with the money and foresight to hoard resources, build shelters and ride out the storm escaped relatively unscathed. Most of the rest of the population was reduced to scavenging the flooded coasts or scorched plains in order to survive.
Now, the Fall is a distant memory. A handful of super-rich live in enclaves in the temperate climes near the arctic circle, while most of the world slaves away under their yoke. There are places, though. Wild places. Places where even the corporations fear to go. Our story begins in the shadow of Drowned Port, once a thriving metropolis, now home to competing War Bosses, a host of scavengers, and a few small enclaves of survivors, trying to eke out a living where they can.
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Notes from the Narrator
This story is inspired by the works of Paulo Bacigalupi, particularly The Drowned Cities, Ship Breaker, and The Windup Girl, as well as post-apocalyptic films and stories. Familiarity with Bacigalupi’s works is in no way necessary (but I’d suggest you check them out if you get a chance, because they are incredible). This is a low-tech future setting. There are some advancements, but they mostly have to do with genetic engineering and harnessing natural resources (wind/solar); they are also almost exclusively owned by the super rich. Players should expect to be using modified versions of simple current era weapons, walking most places, or paying extravagant fees for motorized transport.
I’m looking for 3-5 players with a range of Natures and configurations. If you’d like to create your own cards feel free, but please keep with the theme. I may ask for revisions if I feel they don’t fit. Additionally, I have an 8 month old son, a full-time job and other time constraints, so I’ve set the speed to slow. If you’re looking for a story that goes at more than a snails pace, this may not be the right choice.
Though I have an outline in mind for the story, I’m really looking for players who are willing to take control of challenges and engage in a real cooperative storytelling experience.
Hosted and narrated by:
Zachary McConahy (zmcconahy)
Started 01/18/15.
Scenes played: 5
License: Community License
