Hey guys! Choosing the right role-playing game (RPG) can feel like navigating a star cluster without a map. Today, we're going to pit two sci-fi RPG titans against each other: Traveller and Stars Without Number. Both offer unique takes on interstellar adventure, but cater to different tastes and playstyles. So, buckle up, and let's dive into a detailed comparison to help you decide which one is the perfect fit for your next campaign.

Core Concepts and Settings

When comparing Traveller vs. Stars Without Number, understanding their core concepts and settings is crucial. Traveller, originally published in 1977, is a granddaddy of sci-fi RPGs. Its setting is vast and detailed, typically focusing on the Third Imperium, a sprawling interstellar empire. The game emphasizes exploration, trade, and adventure within a realistic, scientifically-grounded universe. Characters in Traveller often have backgrounds in various professions, adding depth and complexity to their roles. The appeal of Traveller lies in its simulationist approach, with detailed rules covering everything from economics to starship combat.

On the other hand, Stars Without Number, created by Kevin Crawford, is a more modern take on the genre. It draws inspiration from old-school RPGs but incorporates streamlined mechanics and a sandbox-style approach. The setting is intentionally more flexible, allowing game masters (GMs) to create their own sectors and worlds using random generators and guidelines provided in the rulebook. Stars Without Number focuses on player agency and world-building, encouraging GMs and players to collaboratively shape the game universe. The game also includes built-in support for factions and political intrigue, adding layers of depth to the gameplay experience. The key difference here is that Traveller provides a pre-defined, richly detailed universe, while Stars Without Number empowers you to build your own from the ground up.

Character Creation: Lifepath vs. Skills-Based

Character creation is another key area where Traveller and Stars Without Number diverge significantly. In Traveller, character creation is often a lifepath system. This means your character's history and skills are determined by a series of career choices made during character generation. You might start as a naval academy cadet, then become a merchant, and eventually end up as a retired adventurer. Each career provides different skills, benefits, and even potential setbacks, such as injuries or legal troubles. This system creates characters with rich backstories and a sense of history, but it can also be time-consuming and sometimes lead to unexpected results. It's not uncommon for a character to die during the creation process, adding a unique, if sometimes frustrating, element to the game. However, the depth and realism it brings to character backgrounds are unparalleled.

In contrast, Stars Without Number uses a more traditional skills-based system. Players choose a background and allocate skill points to various abilities. The system is simpler and faster, allowing players to create characters more quickly and with greater control over their abilities. Stars Without Number also incorporates a Foci system, which allows characters to specialize in specific areas, such as piloting, combat, or psychic abilities. This system is more streamlined and allows for greater customization, but it may lack the depth and historical richness of Traveller's lifepath system. If you prefer a quick and straightforward character creation process with a focus on customization, Stars Without Number is the way to go. If you enjoy a more involved and unpredictable process that results in characters with detailed histories, Traveller's lifepath system might be more appealing.

Game Mechanics: Simulation vs. Streamlined

Traveller vs. Stars Without Number presents different approaches to game mechanics. Traveller is known for its simulationist approach, with detailed rules covering a wide range of activities. The game uses a 2D6 (two six-sided dice) system for most checks, with modifiers applied based on skills, equipment, and situational factors. Traveller also includes detailed rules for economics, trade, and starship combat, making it a favorite among players who enjoy a more realistic and complex gaming experience. However, the detailed rules can also be a barrier to entry for new players, as the game requires a significant investment of time to learn and master.

Stars Without Number, on the other hand, opts for streamlined mechanics. It uses a single D20 (twenty-sided die) system for most checks, with players needing to roll a number equal to or greater than a target number. The game also incorporates a simple but effective combat system, with clear rules for movement, attacks, and damage. Stars Without Number is designed to be easy to learn and play, making it a great choice for beginners or groups who prefer a faster-paced gaming experience. While it may not offer the same level of detail as Traveller, Stars Without Number compensates with its ease of use and focus on player agency. The mechanics are designed to stay out of the way, allowing players to focus on the story and their characters. If you prioritize simplicity and ease of play, Stars Without Number is the better choice. If you prefer a more detailed and realistic simulation, Traveller might be more to your liking.

Combat: Tactical vs. Narrative

Combat in Traveller vs. Stars Without Number also differs significantly. In Traveller, combat is often tactical and detailed. The game includes rules for different types of weapons, armor, and combat maneuvers. Starship combat is particularly complex, with rules for targeting systems, managing energy, and maneuvering in three-dimensional space. Combat in Traveller can be slow-paced and require careful planning, but it can also be very rewarding for players who enjoy a more strategic approach. The level of detail allows for a wide range of tactical options, from flanking maneuvers to long-range artillery strikes. However, the complexity can also be a drawback for players who prefer a more streamlined and narrative-focused combat experience.

Stars Without Number takes a more narrative approach to combat. The game uses a simpler combat system, with a focus on quick resolution and dramatic action. While the rules are less detailed than those in Traveller, they are still effective and allow for a wide range of combat scenarios. Starship combat is also streamlined, with a focus on broadsides and tactical positioning. Stars Without Number is designed to keep the action moving and prevent combat from bogging down the game. The emphasis is on creating exciting and memorable moments, rather than simulating every detail of the battle. If you prefer a more strategic and tactical combat experience, Traveller is the better choice. If you prefer a faster-paced and more narrative-focused combat experience, Stars Without Number is the way to go.

World-Building and GM Support

When it comes to world-building and GM support, both Traveller and Stars Without Number offer valuable tools and resources. Traveller provides a rich and detailed setting in the form of the Third Imperium. This pre-defined universe offers a wealth of background information, including star charts, planetary descriptions, and political factions. GMs can use this information to create detailed and immersive campaigns with minimal effort. However, the wealth of information can also be overwhelming, and some GMs may find it difficult to adapt the setting to their own preferences. Traveller also includes various supplements and adventures that can be used to expand the game world and provide inspiration for new campaigns. The established lore and detailed setting make it easy to jump in and start playing.

Stars Without Number, on the other hand, emphasizes GM empowerment and world-building. The game includes a robust set of tools and guidelines for creating your own sectors and worlds. Random generators can be used to create everything from planetary characteristics to political events. The game also includes built-in support for factions and political intrigue, allowing GMs to create dynamic and engaging game worlds. Stars Without Number is designed to be flexible and adaptable, allowing GMs to tailor the game to their own preferences. While it may require more work upfront, the result is a unique and personalized gaming experience. The game encourages GMs to be creative and inventive, providing them with the tools they need to bring their own visions to life. If you prefer a ready-made setting with a wealth of background information, Traveller is the better choice. If you prefer to build your own worlds from scratch, Stars Without Number is the way to go.

Which Game is Right for You?

So, Traveller vs. Stars Without Number: which RPG reigns supreme? The answer, as always, depends on your personal preferences and gaming style. If you enjoy a realistic and detailed simulation, with a rich and established setting, Traveller might be the perfect choice for you. Its lifepath character creation system, tactical combat, and detailed rules can provide a rewarding and immersive gaming experience. However, be prepared for a steeper learning curve and a more time-consuming game.

If you prefer a more streamlined and flexible game, with a focus on player agency and world-building, Stars Without Number is an excellent option. Its simple mechanics, narrative combat, and robust GM support make it easy to learn and play, while still providing plenty of opportunities for creativity and customization. Stars Without Number is a great choice for beginners or groups who prefer a faster-paced and more collaborative gaming experience. Ultimately, the best way to decide is to try both games and see which one resonates with you and your group. Both Traveller and Stars Without Number offer unique and compelling takes on the sci-fi RPG genre, and both are well worth exploring. Happy gaming, folks!