STACKED - A Tension-Based Narrative RPG Using Card Towers

STACKED is a tabletop RPG that takes a different approach to physical tension mechanics. Instead of pulling blocks until everything collapses, you're building card towers that grow more precarious with every success.

What Makes STACKED Different?

Build, Don't Destroy - Create towering card structures that represent your growing achievements and mounting pressure

Smart Suit System - Spades for combat, Hearts for social, Diamonds for knowledge, Clubs for physical force

Tactical Resource Management - Every card in your 54-card deck matters. No shuffling until the deck is exhausted!

Multiple Towers, Multiple Problems - Juggle different challenges by building separate towers for each threat

Escalation, Not Elimination - When towers fall, they create dramatic complications, not character deaths

Core Gameplay

Players build physical towers using standard playing cards. As scenes progress and characters take actions, the towers grow taller and more unstable—just like the mounting tension in your story. Higher card values mean better results, but they also make placement more challenging.

When a tower finally collapses, it doesn't end the game. Instead, it triggers consequences that push the narrative in new directions. Your success creates the very instability that leads to exciting complications.

Perfect For:

• Groups who enjoy physical tension mechanics but want something constructive instead of destructive
• Players who enjoy tactical card play mixed with physical dexterity
• GMs looking for a system that naturally creates escalating tension
• Anyone who wants their game mechanics to perfectly match their story beats

What You Get:

• Complete rules in an elegant 8-page foldable zine format
• Quick-start character creation with 6 unique Special Moves
• GM guidance for running tension-filled scenes
• Multiple victory conditions and consequence systems
• Print-at-home PDF optimized for easy folding

Instructions: How to Make Your Zine

Step 1: Print the PDF on 11"×17" paper (or A3) in landscape orientation. If you don't have large format printing, most copy shops can do this for under $1.

Step 2: Cut the borders of the photocopy to create a clean rectangle.

Step 3: Fold the paper in half longways, following the center line. Unfold it.

Step 4: Fold the paper in half sideways, following the lines. Fold it again in half sideways.

Step 5: Unfold everything. You should see 8 rectangles clearly marked.

Step 6: Fold the paper sideways again (so it's folded in half the short way).

Step 7: Cut ONLY the center fold halfway through the paper (follow the dashed line if included).

Step 8: Unfold the paper slightly, then push the two sides inward to form a small book. Fold it flat — now you have your zine!

Your finished zine should be approximately 4.25"×5.5" (or A6 size) and easy to keep open to the page you need during play.

Designer's Note

STACKED was born from a simple question: "What if the tension mechanic helped you succeed instead of ensuring your doom?" 

The physical act of placing cards on increasingly unstable towers creates genuine tension that mirrors the narrative stakes. Every placement becomes a moment of held breath, every collapse a narrative turning point.

This is tension mechanics done differently. This is STACKED.

Requires: Standard playing cards (including Jokers), flat surface, 2-5 players + GM

Print Friendly: Designed for easy home printing and assembly

Play Time: 2-4 hours per session

Age Range: 12+ (requires steady hands and basic reading)