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?

  • copacetic
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    1 year ago

    There are no precise definitions, no good distinction, and nobody really needs one anyways.

    My personal definition: NSR is OSR without the nostalgia. So instead of glorifying old D&D versions, NSR games remove unnecessary complexity and the systems are simpler but just as fun.