Week 1
Lesson 1
Introduction to Tabletop RPGs: History and Fundamentals
Explore the history and evolution of tabletop RPGs while delving into their basic principles and core components. Students will have the opportunity to play a variety of games with different mechanics, gaining insights into what makes each system unique. This session will also help you consider and brainstorm the type of game system you would like to create.
 Week 2
Lesson 2
Worldbuilding: Creating Your Game Universe
Discover techniques for constructing detailed and immersive game worlds using the tenets of creative writing. Students will explore elements such as geography, culture, politics, and economy, crafting rich backdrops for their games. Additionally, we'll play excerpts from various systems that balance detailed worldbuilding with player choice, providing inspiration for your own creations.
 Week 3
Lesson 3
Game Mechanics: An Overview
Dive into the intricate world of game mechanics, exploring traditional elements like dice and cards alongside concepts such as the issues of kingmaking, player-oriented map making, and providing tips for game balance. This session will examine how these diverse mechanics can shape player interactions and overall gameplay. 
 Week 4
Lesson 4
Storytelling Design and Diversity
Explore the seamless integration of storytelling and game mechanics in tabletop RPG design, emphasizing ethical considerations. This session will delve into how narrative choices and mechanical systems can complement each other to create engaging and meaningful player experiences. Additionally we'll understand the impact of game content on diverse audiences, work towards designing inclusive and respectful games, and address sensitive topics / avoid stereotypes.
 Week 5
Lesson 5
Roles in Roleplaying: Players and Game Masters
Explore the dynamic roles within tabletop RPGs, focusing on the distinct responsibilities, skills, and agency of both players and game masters. This session will cover effective communication, collaborative storytelling techniques, and strategies for fostering an engaging and immersive gaming experience for all participants.
 Week 6
Lesson 6
Digital Design Fundamentals
Dive into the essentials of digital design, emphasizing the importance of color theory, spacing, and accessibility. Learn how to create visually appealing layouts while ensuring your designs are inclusive for all users, including those who are deaf, blind, dyslexic, autistic, or colorblind. This session will cover practical techniques for achieving both aesthetic and functional excellence in your digital creations. We will be learning and utilizing Photoshop/Photopea (free online alternative).
 Week 7
Lesson 7
Workshop + Critique
Engage in a hands-on workshop where you'll develop your RPG designs further based on everything we've covered and receive constructive feedback from peers and instructors. This session focuses on collaborative improvement, offering a supportive environment to refine your ideas and enhance your game mechanics, storytelling, and overall design. Bring your prototypes and be ready to iterate based on insightful critiques. 

The focus of this class will be individualized to student growth points.
 Week 8
Lesson 8
Playtesting + Feedback
Participate in a crucial playtesting session to experience your RPG designs in action and gather valuable player feedback. This class emphasizes the importance of observing player interactions, identifying areas for improvement, and making iterative changes to enhance gameplay and narrative. Learn how to effectively interpret feedback to refine and perfect your game, while giving kind and constructive feedback for others.

We end off our class by celebrating and playing each other's work.