Christopher D Gath
Online Nickname: Crothian
Introduction
I run and play many different systems throughout the year. I have a decent sized RPG collection allowing me to better comprehend the different games to be judged. I have been a judge before and understand that large amount of time and dedication it takes to do the job well.
Why do you play/run RPGs?
I run and play RPGs to share in the creativeness and entertainment of friend both old and new.
The ENNIES requires a major commitment of time and energy. What resources do you have that will help you discharge these responsibilities? Will your gaming group or other individuals be assisting you? Does your family support you?
I have done this before. I have a low stress job that allows me flexibility and plenty of days off to be able to devout the time and resources needed to be a Judge. I have the full support of family and friends who help as sounding boards to discuss the products.
Judging requires a great deal of critical thinking skills, communication with other judges, deadline management, organization, and storage space for the product received. What interests, experience, and skills do you bring that will make you a more effective judge?
I have plenty of space for books in my house including a library cart that will be just for ENNIES products. I’m an accountant so organizing and understanding deadlines comes second nature. I will make myself available for monthly meetings enjoy engaging with the other judges.
What styles and genres of RPGs do you enjoy most? Are there any styles or genres that you do not enjoy? Which games best exemplify what you like? Do you consider yourself a fan of a particular system, publisher, or genre?
My favorite genre is more of the urban fantasy and horror. I do play a lot of fantasy since that is what people want. My favorite game is Changeling the Dreaming. I’m more of a fan of rules light system with great creativity. I like games that do not just retread what has already been published.
List (up to 5) games you’ve played in the last 2 years. What drew you to playing them? Which did you like best and why?
Dungeons and Dragons is the most common. I run games for teens and that is the game they most want to play
Vaesen is a personal favorite and I really enjoy the Nordic setting and their mythology come to life in the game.
Void 1680 AM is a great solo game and I’ve found myself drawn more to solo games as creators are coming up with some great ideals and rulesets for them.
Flabbergasted has been a fun comical game that has really grown on me. I really enjoy how the stakes are low and the roaring 20’s setting really comes alive in it.
Paranoia I run for strangers. I love how the game disregards expectations and assumptions of other games. It’s always a breathe of fresh air to introduce new players to Alpha Complex.
Have you been a game master in the past 2 years? If yes, what games have you run? What made you decide to run those games?
I am mostly a DM. I run D&D because it is what people most want. I run Masks the New Generation because it is a unique take on supers games. I run Monsters of the Week because i like have it emulates shows like Supernatural and Buffy. I run games that bring me and my friends excitement. But also these days I run many smaller indie games on line to just try things out.
Summarize the criteria you would use to determine if a game deserves to be nominated for Best Game.
I want a complete game in a book. I want a ruleset that supports the setting and the aims of the game. I want art that makes the game come alive. The game needs to have a reason to be played over other games of the same or similar genres. I like to see creativity that oozes off the page.
How will you judge supplements or adventures for game systems whose core rules you are unfamiliar with or you believe are badly designed?
I will buy ruleset I don’t own or borrow them from friends. I own and have kept many for this reason. I look at adventures and supplements and do they expand upon or improve the base game? Is this a product that is a must have or is it just more options that are not really needed? I ask these questions of everything.
How would you like to see the ENNIEs change? What should remain inviolate?
I would like to see more fan interaction. Maybe schedule some games with the Judges or maybe a public chat or emails where the judges and ENNIE staff can answer questions and engage with fans.