First things first, I’m not affiliated with any of the projects named and any hype I give them is of my own opinion, uncompensated. See my Disclaimer for more information.
Art and creativity in all its forms help us tap into and conceptualize the broader themes and energies of the universe, an act which is inherently magical. Tabletop role-playing games (colloquially called TTRPGs) are an often overlooked contribution to the art and creative space. Considered kitschy, odd or offbeat, this alternative hobby opens our minds to new worlds and experiences in a way that can be deeply moving. These games are also uniquely suited to exploring divinity, spirituality, witchcraft, religion – whatever you call the broader universe and the meaning of how we mere mortals live and work and play within it.
In the realm of witchcraft, self-discovery and personal empowerment, practitioners are constantly seeking innovative ways to deepen their connection with the magical arts. Solo TTRPGs can serve practitioners through the facilitation of elaborate rituals, and help us build deeper connections with ourselves, our tools, and our practice.
Solo TTRPGs also provide an excellent opportunity for journaling and reflection. Many of these games incorporate writing, allowing practitioners to keep a record of their experiences (especially if this is something they struggle with doing!). Doing so allows them to capture their growth and progress. This reflective practice helps practitioners recognize patterns, refine their magical techniques, and deepen their understanding of the underlying themes and symbolism present in their personal practice.
I first shared this concept over on tumblr nearly a year ago, and it’s still something I wish more people knew about. I’ve mentioned it on other social media sites as well, but it’s time I give it a final resting place here on the blog so folks can easily reference it again and again.
Solo TTRPGs for your personal practice
Grab your dice sets, your tarot & playing cards, and a journal!
The Tea Shelf
The Tea Shelf uses a system of tarot to generate a setting and vibe for a conversation between two individuals. This could help you explore a new perspective on tarot, and I think the game itself could be a beautiful way to facilitate devotional interactions between you and your deities or spirit team.
After Death Guide
After Death Guide promotes intuitive interpretations of tarot cards, and I believe the game itself, which focuses on aiding souls trapped between planes, could be a foundation for initiating Death Work.
A Walk Through the Valley of the Shadow of Death
This game, which features letter writing on behalf of the recently departed, could be used as a ritual for engaging in Death Work.
Haunted
This game utilizes tarot cards and could likely be used as a way to do shadow work. This game focuses on reflecting on the past and recognizing where you went wrong.
Note – when exploring your shadow it’s best to wait until you have a strong support system, such as a therapist.
Anamnesis
Anamnesis uses a system of tarot that could help you explore the cards from a new perspective. Additionally, this game could likely be easily tweaked to aid in exploring past lives, if that’s your thing.
Terminus
Terminus is a form of ritual using the major arcana. I believe it will aid you in connecting with your surroundings, enhancing your awareness of how you interact with the world around you.
The Empress and her Seer
This game seems like a beautiful, creative way to practice tarot reading. Personally, I struggle with the idea of practice readings for unreal people, but I think having a foundational character to work from makes a lot more sense.
There is No Road
When dabbling in witchcraft and spirituality, you may struggle to wrap your head around all the theories and theologies behind what you do and what you believe. I think this game could help you explore and define your core spiritual and religious beliefs.
Dear Poppy
Dear Poppy explores the art of change, nurturing and growth that I think is just so beautiful and witchy. Explore Death Work from the perspective of life cycles.
Variations on Your Body
Variations on Your Body is a collection of mini games, each with the intent of connecting you with yourself. I view these games as inherent and ritualistic forms of witchcraft. From the game creator herself: “I’ve had a complicated relationship with my body. These four games draw on my life as a queer trans woman, as someone living with chronic pain and mental illness, and as someone healing through trauma. They together ask the question: what if escapism can help us to return to our body more whole?”
Note – when playing Brave Sparrow, keep indigenous closed practices and local laws in mind. Many feathers cannot be collected. Perhaps find a token to represent the feather instead.
Last Tea Shop
This game leans into Death Work. Folks stop into your little tea shop as they transition from life to death, and you’re there to record their final memories & thoughts.
Divined Journey
This game was created specifically to help folks learn tarot. Break in a new tarot deck or explore their imagery and meanings with this TTRPG.
BONUS witchy TTRPGs that are more fun than practice –
Hedge Witch – Go on an adventure as a little cottage witch.
Koriko: A Magical Year – Live out your Kiki’s Delivery Service-like fantasy as a little witch in a little village. (This is a new release that I supported on kickstarter – I’m so excited for this one!)
Dwelling – Something is haunting your new home.
Arcanadrome – Arcanadrome uses tarot to help world-build (It’s a fun exercise in creativity, and a useful tool for fiction writers & Dungeon Masters).
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