Michizure is a role-playing system that emphasizes relationships between players and immersion in the game world.
It focuses on the notion of bond: the bond between characters and a creature that accompanies them throughout their adventure, the bond between team members, the bond between characters and the universe in which they evolve, and the bond between players and the campaign they are living.
Characters and creatures
In Michizure, each character is accompanied by a creature, their partner. The partner is the main interface between the character and their environment, and the bond between them is fundamental to their progress and survival.
While the character takes care of human affairs, partners possess unique powers that enable them to face a wide range of challenges.
The relationship between character and partner influences their abilities, and the more in tune they are, the more powerful their duo will be.
Michizure: the bond
At the start of a campaign, each player is assigned a secret role, their fate link, the Michizure. This role is linked to the character’s personality and backstory, as well as to the current campaign, and serves to give the character a reason to progress in the story. It is a driving force behind the character’s actions. Some roles can be cooperative, others antagonistic. Players need to know how to play with their roles to advance the story towards their goals, and discover the roles of other players. These roles are not rigid and fixed, but serve as a basis for potential character evolution. Revealing a character’s role can tip the story in a new direction, and write a new chapter in the characters’ history.
Explore, meet, confront, bond
Michizure’s four basic bricks are the phases between which players will alternate during a game session.
Explore the world
The game’s universe is not a simple setting, but a world to be explored and understood. Important elements are rarely visible, and partners are there to help characters navigate this hostile environment and discover its secrets.
Meet other people
In the course of their adventure, the characters will meet other people. Some will be honest and cooperative, others will lie, still others will be antagonistic, shy or aggressive. Talking to them is an integral part of the game, and you need to understand them to know how to communicate with them.
Confront foes
Some obstacles can only be overcome through confrontation. At such times, your partner will be invaluable. His or her powers will enable you to stand up to your opponents. Your bond is forged through the adventures and trials you undergo, and facing great danger is one of them. The stronger your bond with your partner and teammates, the more likely you are to defeat powerful adversaries.
Bond together
You can’t constantly travel around the world and fight overpowered creatures. Everyone needs to rest every now and then. These breaks are the perfect time to bond with your teammates and partner. Get to know them better, share quality time, and create moments that will last a long time. And sleep well. The world of Michizure is ruled by the Dreamtime, and sometimes, in your sleep, you may be granted a glimpse of the future, share a dream with one of your team members, or experience an entire adventure that will change your view of the world, or distract you from the turmoil you’re in.