SHIFT RPG: Taking a Risk

When designing SHIFT RPG, we knew we were taking a risk with creating a system with no set world attached to it.

Some of the greatest TTRPGs, from Blades in the Dark to Mork Borg, are known for the setting and vibes that their books showcase. These systems have have a distinct look and feel to them.

We wanted SHIFT to be able to divorce itself from that home base. So, instead we devised a mascot, one that could be everything and anyone that you would need it to be. In comes Risky!

Sketches of a cartoon rabbit character in various poses. — *First concept sketches by Justin Chan (we chose C)*

Concept sketches of a pink rabbit character in different outfits. — *Second batch of concepts by Just Chan showcasing the multifaceted nature of Risky.*

A Link to Classics

We took cues from games that we enjoyed and felt represented us. When working with Justin Chan (Spelunky, Rogue Legacy, Bugsnax) to help us devise this character, these were the inspirations we provided:

Manual illustrations from The Legend of Zelda — *The Legend of Zelda manual illustrations. So much charm!*

A pixelated pink bunny. — *Link as a pink bunny in Zelda: A Link to the Past.*

Manual for the game Tunic. — *Tunic Manual, while recent, we really enjoyed the revival in style*

Turnaround models of a cute owl-like character. — *Moogles from Final Fantasy*

What's in a Name? Why Risky?

Risky was named after co-creator Graeme Fotheringham's social handle "RiskyPixels". Between that and the Risky dice mechanic in SHIFT, we felt that the name Risky was fun and gave a sense of who the players of SHIFT are.

That, and it's a much better than "Shifty", though we'll save that for Risky's nemesis.

Cartoon characters in various poses on a white background — *Risky directing the game*

Connective Threads

Some of you have already noticed this: in the World Spark illustrations there are references to Risky! We wanted the character to be around in some capacity when it came to the World Sparks. Originally we were going to have all the characters be rabbits, but we think this is a better compromise. :D

References to Risky in various art pieces.

Support SHIFT on Kickstarter!

Help us bring SHIFT RPG to life by supporting our Kickstarter campaign! If you've already backed, thank you so much for helping us create this game! If you want to try out SHIFT for yourself as a player (and even as a game designer!) join the SHIFT RPG Discord here!