What's the difference between OSR and NSR?
What's the difference between OSR and NSR?
Hello there! I've been OSR-curious for a few years now. I like sandbox games where the dice decide reactions, weather, random encounters, etc because that keeps things interesting even for the GM. Incidentally, it also works great for solo play which I like.
However, while the older versions of D&D and retro clones commonly associated with OSR are good games, they're not my preferred type of game. I want the "powers" that newer games gives me as a player, with more mechanics per class. Therefore, I prefer games like Pathfinder over Old School Essentials.
So, while I think I have a decent grasp of what OSR is, I'm not quite sure what NSR is; my impression is that NSR means "playing in the OSR style, but with modern mechanics". Is that correct, or maybe I'm completely off the track?
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Effectively, NSR games are games in the OSR spirit (generally, but not necessarily, rules light with a focus on procedural systems that generate experience rather than prescribed plot [though this isn’t always the case with either “school”]) that are not concerned with being immediately compatible with OSR adventures.
Systems like Cairn, Mothership, and Electric Bastionland are all good examples of the NSR.
Great answer!
Ah, I see, that makes sense. Thanks!