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Sci fi RPG systems

Looking to recreate the feel of Firefly, The Outer Worlds, The Expanse, or similar, in a ttrpg that is somewhat leaning to the hard sci fi side. Any thoughts?

I've been poking Traveller but it's hard to tell what the definitive versions are. Also Stars Without Number looks interesting.

I'm particularly looking for ship based stuff -- where the ship is statted and you can have ship to ship combat.

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  • I have not played any of these, so this is less of a reccomendation and more listing things that you can look at, and ask other folks if they agree its better suited for you, but I've heard of a few games that fit some 'extremes' of sci-fi roleplaying

    Scum and Villainy probably being the most famous, having a Forged in the Dark style of gameplay where your characters are rogue-ish underdogs, constantly on the run, striving for each job to make them last a few more days

    Farflung With a post-scarcity, lighthearted style, where you're travelling, romancing, exploring, creating and living among the stars with your crew

    and Impulse Drive for something that's more middle of the road. You have a crew taking jobs and exploring, but they aren't as scrappy and struggling, but also aren't as free and lackadaisical

    • The reviews on Impulse Drive are great (assuming they aren't planted reviews...). I wish I could get a better preview without having to buy it first. I recently played in a Monster of the Week one-shot, which also uses the PbtA (Powered by the Apocalypse, for those unfamiliar) general ruleset, and it was quite enjoyable.

      I'll investigate the others too. Much thanks!

      e: found the preview version https://preview.drivethrurpg.com/en/product/190933/Impulse-Drive-PWYW

      • The reason I knew about Impulse Drive is because I buy those huge itchio bundles that are put out every year or so, if you are in that habit you might also own it :P

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