What is meant by a “West Marches” game?

A lot of people talk about a “West Marches” campaign, but what is it, exactly?

In short, it is a player-directed, player-scheduled game that is character-driven rather than plot-driven.  Information is shared between the (theoretically) large pool of players, leading to open competition between players to achieve objectives as they are uncovered.  Also, all sessions need to start and end at the origin point so that characters are available for the next expedition should the player wish to play in it.

You can also look at this question on the RPG StackExchange for more information.


Links to original articles by Ben Robbins, who originally coined the term “West Marches” based on the eponymous campaign:

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Trace: • Giovanni’s Wagon • Hakon • Common rumors, compiled • Volva • What is meant by a “West Marches” game?

DM, what is best in life?

To crush the characters, see their dice driven before me and hear the lamentations of the players