I don’t know what an essential PnP library is anymore- and why that’s cool

Every once in a while, I try and write about what I think would be a good introduction to Print and Play. What would be good to start with, what would be easy to craft. 

I think the last time I did that was during the lockdown. At that time, I wanted to put together a list for folks who weren’t used to print and play but could use the games. Mind you, I imagine most people reading my blog are into print and play lol 

And it has occurred to me that it wouldn't be as easy to try and do that again. 

And that is because it feels like so many games are available in the PnP format. Mind you, I honestly think that is because of how Covid created a demand for that. But the market for actually buying PnP files really has grown.

When I first started poking around PnP, it felt like most of the stuff out there was free. From what I could tell, most of the files that were for sale were for war games and 18XX games. (I may not have known where to look)

And there are some jolly good experiences that you just have to pay for the materials. 

30 Rails still hold up and you could draw it freehand if you didn’t have a printer. I have tried so many Roll and Writes that involve a six by six grid but 30 Rails still stands out by giving you lots of interesting choices and a train theme that works.

If you wanted to take the extra step of making cards, I still recommend the Decktet. Heck, I have said before and I will say it again: if you only plan on making one PnP project ever, it should be the Decktet. It is a game system that just keeps on giving.

But, if you were willing to spend a little money, I’d say buy Postmark Games’ catalog. Don’t get me wrong. There are other companies like HammerDice or Button Shy are amazing. But Postmark has a small but robust set of games that just require printing out the game sheets and every one is solid. It is an easy and accessible entry point.

I think trying out any of these games would be an enriching experience. I don’t think they are the definitive introduction to PnP but I think they are a good one.

But the idea of an essential library of PnP games? At this point, between what someone’s interests are and how much work they want to put in and how much is available, I have no idea. Heck, I’m not sure what it would be for me.