Diagetic Bingo
I was thinking about diagetic advancement recently and I want a more structured format for it. So I came up with bingo. This gives players and the GM a chance to work together to make diagetic progression.
The idea is this. At the start of the campaign, the GM tells everyone the elevator pitch of the campaign. Then, create a N x N (where N is the number of players including the GM) grid. This grid outlines the kind of growth the group wants to see. In alphabetical order, each player (including the GM) says a word that ties to the campaign pitch. Once every player has submitted one word each, repeat this process until the grid is full.
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| Here's an example I made for a campaign I plan to run. |
Now that you have this grid, the GM uses it for inspiration for NPCs, items or places that give abilities based on the words provided. Once a diagetic ability is given, the word is removed from the grid. During downtime or at the end of a major adventure, players can add new words to a empty space or swap a pre-existing word for a new one based on the events in fiction. I recommend adding words for longer campaigns and using the the bingo as a campaign clock.
Ideally, words should be vague and have multiple interpretations to give the GM enough flexibility. You can also adjust the size based on how long the campaign will run. Also keep the grid in view of the players as a reminder of what is out there.
Clickables
Elmcat uses Mythic Bastionland's Glory system as reputation.
Farmer Gadda uses themes to quickly prep zones. (An inspiration for this post)
The Play Reports tells us the interesting power the players have as resources.

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