Hello,

I just read the free Dead of Night: Night of the Santa Claws scenario. I was dissapointed that like the scenarios in the game itself, it only touches on Managing Tension by listing the Starting, Middle, and End Tension levels and outlining what might be occuring at each level. All the other cool aspects of Dead of Night scenario design are sadly missing.

What about a few suggestions for different Tension Points Circumstances and how they influence the game? How about a few lines on how the scenario might play out differently under the various Types of Horror discussed in the rules? Mood is also sadly missed, but could've included tips on how the frequency of Survival Point awards might affect the scenario, along with a short list of clichés perfect for it. A summary of how to scare Players vs Characters, and how the different Styles of Play impact actual play would also have been great.

I think you keep overlooking the very best aspects of Dead of Night in the published scenarios. Especially in a freebie scenario that could introduce it to a lot of new fans. I heartily recommend that you always include details on each of the following topics in every published DoN scenario:

1. Managing Tension (p. 69-73); broken down as follows:
1. Starting Tension (p. 69-71): Along with Middle and End levels, and outline of possible events for each, as in currently published scenarios should remain. (See pages 64-67 as well.)
2. Mood (p. 71): How freely Survival Points are awarded by the GM. A short list of fitting clichés for the scenario, if Running with Clichés is used, should also be included.
3. Tension Points Circumstances (p. 72-73): How Tension Points may be used by the GM and the impact those choices have on actual play. (See pages 67-69 as well.)
2. Types of Horror (p. 73-79): Details on how the scenario would play out under the various themes and styles discussed in the game.
3. Players vs Characters (p. 81-82): Tips on how to immerse the characters in the story. Details on why the scenario might be scary to some players, and how to play up or avoid that.
4. Styles of Play (p. 82-95): Suggested variants that work well with the scenario.

I have included the page references to the DoN rules, so those playing along at home quickly can find what I'm referring to.

TTFN,

Yoki

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