Monsterhearts: A Teen Romance RPG Where You Wrestle With Your Inner Demons (And Maybe Some Outer Ones Too!)

Ever dreamt of navigating high school hallways not just as a student, but as a werewolf grappling with bloodlust, a ghoul yearning for human connection, or even a phantom searching for lost love? Monsterhearts, a tabletop roleplaying game (TTRPG) published by Buried Without Ceremony, plunges you into the chaotic world of teenage angst amplified by monstrous transformations. It’s less about dungeon crawling and slaying dragons and more about exploring identity, relationships, and the often terrifying, exhilarating experience of growing up.

Unmasking Your Inner Monster

At its core, Monsterhearts invites players to embody “monsters”—supernatural beings struggling to fit in amidst a world that fears what it doesn’t understand. These aren’t your typical monstrous villains; they are complex characters grappling with their newfound powers, internal struggles, and the overwhelming desire for acceptance. The game offers six playable monster types, each with unique strengths, weaknesses, and thematic drives:

The game doesn’t dictate your character’s backstory; instead, it empowers you to craft a narrative steeped in personal history and trauma. Maybe your werewolf struggles with controlling their transformations during full moons while simultaneously trying to fit in with the popular crowd. Or perhaps your vampire, haunted by a lost love, seeks solace in the arms of another, risking exposure and their eternal damnation.

The Playground of Teenage Angst

Monsterhearts sets its stage in the familiar yet fraught landscape of high school. It’s a place where cliques reign supreme, rumors spread faster than wildfire, and every social interaction feels like a performance. The game encourages players to explore these dynamics, using their monstrous abilities to navigate complex social situations. A werewolf might tap into their enhanced senses to eavesdrop on juicy gossip, while a vampire could use their charm to manipulate classmates into doing their bidding (though with potentially disastrous consequences).

Beyond the superficial drama of teenage life, Monsterhearts delves deeper into themes of identity, belonging, and acceptance. What does it mean to be different? How do we cope with the pressures of fitting in when our true selves are monstrous and feared? These questions drive the narrative forward, encouraging players to confront their inner demons while seeking connection and understanding with others.

Mechanics That Fuel the Drama

Monsterhearts employs a simple yet elegant dice-rolling mechanic that reflects the emotional turmoil at its core. Players roll six-sided dice (d6s) against a target number set by the “Director” (the game’s equivalent of a Dungeon Master). Successes are determined by matching or exceeding the target number.

The system includes unique mechanics designed to amplify the dramatic tension:

• Conditions: Throughout the game, players accumulate conditions that reflect their characters’ emotional state and vulnerabilities. Conditions like “Heartbreak,” “Rage,” or “Guilt” can modify dice rolls, adding layers of complexity and unpredictability.
• Moves: Monsterhearts encourages collaborative storytelling through a series of predefined “moves.” These actions guide players’ choices and interactions, prompting them to explore their characters’ motivations and relationships.

For example:

• Get Close: This move allows you to build intimacy with another character, but it also risks exposing your vulnerabilities.
• Take What You Want: A powerful move that grants immediate gratification but often comes at a cost.
• Reveal Your True Nature: The ultimate act of vulnerability, potentially leading to acceptance or rejection.

More Than Just Dice and Drama: Embracing the Monstrous Within

While Monsterhearts’ mechanics are designed to fuel dramatic storytelling, the game’s true strength lies in its ability to encourage introspection and empathy. By stepping into the shoes of a monster struggling with their identity, players gain a unique perspective on themes of acceptance, prejudice, and the complex tapestry of human relationships.

It’s a game that celebrates the messy, contradictory nature of being human—or monstrous. It invites us to embrace our own inner demons, explore our darkest desires, and ultimately find solace in connection with others who understand our struggles.

So, gather your friends, choose your monsters, and prepare to face the turbulent waters of teenage angst, love, and the ever-present shadow of your true nature. In Monsterhearts, you’ll discover that being a monster might just be the most human thing you can do.