National Reading Day: Celebrate with Cocoa Craze
In the United States, this Tuesday was National Reading Day, a day that emphasizes the importance and joy of reading for kids. What better way to honour the act of getting children to read than by delving into the enchanting world of tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs)? TTRPGs have words, they inspire imagination and problem solving, things which will lead more kids to sci-fi, fantasy and games without screens. Not that we, avid video gamers that we are, don’t love screens too.
One delightful kid-friendly gem of a table top one shot is "Cocoa Craze" by, well, me. Sapha Burnell. This TTRPG system-agnostic one-shot nvites players young and old to embark on a whimsical adventure in the Judge of Mystics Realm. We’re talking the promise of a 60 - 90 minute dash for sweets and treats to enliven a mug of hot cocoa during a slumber party full of magical creatures and friends.
In "Cocoa Craze," players are transported to the ultimate slumber party in a magical space and the stage is set for an epic, kid-friendly or chill adventure. Karisma Calebdottir's mundane plans take an unexpected turn when her dad heads off on a seemingly boring camping trip with Finnegan the Fae and Ares. Left to her own devices, Karisma seizes the opportunity to host her first sleepover, enlisting the help of her older step-sister Seraya, and the siblings Icarus and Lou as responsible adult guardians. The result? A party of epic proportions that promises thrills, creative problem solving and laughter.
The premise of "Cocoa Craze" revolves around satiating a serious lack of sweet teeth at the sleepover. The challenge? A tantalizing array of mythic hot cocoa toppers and treats precariously perched on the highest shelf.
Players must solve puzzles, navigate through the fantastical landscape and, most importantly, avoid alerting the responsible adults to the sugary shenanigans. The clock ticks with six timed rounds, adding an element of excitement to this chill, low-stakes, cocoa and candy-themed fantasy one-shot game.
What sets "Cocoa Craze" apart is its commitment to creating a gaming experience that is both kid-friendly and appealing to adults looking to destress and chill. The game focuses on collaborative storytelling, role-playing, and puzzle-solving, making it an ideal choice for kids aged 6 and up. The system-agnostic nature ensures that players can seamlessly integrate "Cocoa Craze" into their favorite tabletop role-playing systems, adding versatility to the gaming experience.
Want a combat free option? It’s built for that. Want light ‘cartoony’ combat? It’s also built for that.
This booklet encapsulates the spirit of National Reading Day by offering not just a game but an immersive narrative experience. The vibrant characters, imaginative setting, and the whimsy of the Judge of Mystics Realm come alive on the pages. The language is accessible, making it a perfect gateway for young readers to explore the joys of storytelling in a gaming context.
As we celebrate the wonders of reading, "Cocoa Craze" beckons readers to step into a world where hot cocoa and sugary delights intertwine with mystery and adventure. Whether you're a seasoned tabletop gamer or a novice looking for a delightful introduction to the genre, my creation promises an experience that transcends age, inviting everyone to partake in the magic of collaborative storytelling.
So, grab a cozy spot, immerse yourself in "Cocoa Craze" and I hear from a comic book shop, “Cocoa Craze” is best played with cupcakes and a side of hot chocolate.
