One of the most fascinating aspects of DCC is its emphasis on the unexpected and unpredictable. The game embraces the idea that heroic deeds are not reserved for the mighty and invincible. In fact, your character might start as a humble farmer or a lowly gong farmer. The game is also more deadly than average TTRPGs.
Character creation is random and starts at level 0 with an adventure known as a funnel. A DCC funnel is a unique and thrilling adventure within the game that sets it apart from other tabletop role-playing experiences. In a funnel, each player controls not one, but a group of zero-level characters, typically consisting of ordinary villagers, farmers, or tradespeople. These characters are unskilled and lacking in combat prowess, but they have the potential for greatness.
The funnel begins with the players' group of characters being thrust into a dangerous and mysterious situation. It could be a call to action, such as defending their village from a marauding horde or investigating a strange occurrence in a nearby dungeon. The ultimate goal is to survive the challenges thrown their way and see which characters rise above the rest to become the heroes of the story.
Throughout the funnel, the players face a series of perilous encounters, traps, puzzles, and battles. The odds are against them, and the characters' survival is uncertain. Some characters may fall in the face of danger, but those who manage to survive and overcome the obstacles gradually grow in power and experience. It's a game of risk and reward, where every decision matters and consequences can be dire.
The funnel is known for its unpredictability and a sense of genuine danger. It's not uncommon for characters to meet bizarre creatures, stumble upon deadly traps, or face insurmountable odds. The focus is not just on individual heroics but also on the camaraderie and resourcefulness of the group. Players must work together, pooling their limited resources and making tough choices to increase their chances of survival.
DCC encourages creativity and out-of-the-box thinking. It's a game where anything can happen, the rule of cool is heavily encouraged. The focus is not just on combat but also on exploration, problem-solving, and character development.
I, like many others, found DCC during the great WOTC debacle, and honestly I don't know if I will ever go back to DND.
Edited to add DCC is published by Goodman Games.
I picked up a DCC booklet on free RPG day a year or so ago. Didn't give it much of a look over then but you've sold me to give it another look.