I really enjoy tabletop roleplaying games, and work on the side developing my own – Payload. I’ve a link to an online brochure I experimented with for it here, with the text of it presented below.

Lock and Load

Is your gaming group looking to try something new? Do you want the thrill of mecha actions (who doesn’t?) but running up against the wall of outdated, unsupported or over complicated game systems?

Payload is a new RPG system under development, being live tested at GenCon in 2018, that will satisfy all your mech roleplaying needs.

Giant Robots, Your Way 

In our opinion, there’s no right way to get your giant robot game on. Instead of clunky and difficult customization rules, adjusting the load out of a pilot or mech is simple, with a range of choices that far outstrips the competition. Wreak havoc in the way that you envision, no compromises.

Quality Mecha 

The concept for Payload comes from  artist Taylor Schmidt – better known in fandoms across the internet as Blazbaros. As a full partner in the project, he is providing his own artwork to the project, including his beautiful ACE designs.

Look here for examples of his artwork, or commission your own, and go here to learn more about Payload. You can also find new updates at our Facebook page.

With a classless character creation system, you’re free to focus on story and role, rather than on restrictions. As with play, we intend for progression to be simple enough that anyone can pick it up, but with a breadth to keep players hooked.

A Galaxy to Explore

 Beyond the rules, Payload has a fully realized world – a galaxy of corporate intrigue, vibrant colonies, and frontier action. After the death of Earth and the scattering of humanity to the stars, civilization continues on a variety of colonies funded and controlled by powerful MegaCorporations. Each of these MegaCorporations have their own goals, secret schemes and technological edges, and all seek to play prominent roles in the fate of humanity. They all control vast economic, political and military power, particularly through their manufacture of ACEs – Armoured Combat Engines, incredibly powerful bipedal warmachines.

Get Right to Gaming 

Payload looks to get new players right into the action as soon as possible. The base rules are simple to understand, but with a large toolbox of options for game masters and players to use. Those starting the game can easily play around with the basics – while for those who love a challenge, there are a variety of tactical options available.

Too often, roleplaying games become exercises in looking things up, rather than simply playing and having fun – Payload’s intuitive rules system works to keep things moving along, while still giving the choice that RPG veterans want.

Players take on the role of hired guns, independent pilots of ACEs. Hired guns are the freelancers of the galaxy, taking on all sorts of work, traveling where they are needed. The motives of hired guns vary, with colourful characters comprising the squads that wander the colonies and frontiers. Players will have to navigate this world to make their living, always mindful of the rewards – and risks – that that the machinations of the corporations promise.