Rolling with Purpose: Why Mechanics Matter in TTRPGs

In this episode of Inside the GM Studio, Matt and David dive headfirst into "why tabletop RPGs need more mechanics, not fewer".

Are rules really the enemy of good storytelling? Or are they the unsung heroes that give weight to your decisions, tension to your rolls, and depth to your characters? From the illusion of "rules-light freedom" to the power of numbers in shaping narrative stakes, the hosts explore how mechanics don't just support a TTRPG—they define its drama.

Whether you’re a rules-lawyer, a narrative purist, or somewhere in between, this episode challenges the idea that less crunch equals more fun. Spoiler: it doesn’t.

Tune in to hear how well-crafted systems can empower players, sharpen storytelling, and turn every encounter into a meaningful, memorable moment.

🎲 Mechanics aren’t the villain—they’re the framework of fantasy.

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