Zero Samurai

"I'm a big fan of RPG as lit/film criticism and I don't know many games that do it well. Sorcerer & Sword and Quietus are the only two other games that come immediately to mind. This definitely belongs in their company."                                

-Jesse Burneko

Zero Samurai is a game inspired by Kurosawa Akira’s Seven Samurai.  In the famous film, a poor community hires samurai to defend it from raiders.  This game begins when those sent to the city to find warriors return, but have found no one who will help.  It is not about samurai, or Japan - it is about everyday people facing calamity with nothing but each other to rely on.

The organization and approach are inspired by Shinobu Hashimoto’s Compound Cinematics, using the words of Seven Samurai's key scriptwriter to explain Kurosawa's unique, collaborative approach - and how it can be applied to tabletop role-playing games.

The rules are based on the Holdfast Engine, the core system developed for Holdfast Station.  The document is organized to be read through and used during play along with a printed or online copy of the Zero Samurai scenario sheets, and should take two to three hours.  

It includes a full system, handouts, scenarios, advice, character sheets, and everything needed (in addition to a link to an online script keeper) in 51 pages.  Currently Itch-funding to create a print-friendly layout and possible art!

NOTE: This game is for MATURE audiences; think PG-13.  Please review all materials to ensure they suit your kids if you consider playing this with anyone who isn't an adult!