
According to Spectrum President, Cynthia Celeste Miller, “This isn’t a traditional superhero RPG that just happens to include 1960s aesthetics. Every aspect of the game system itself was meant to replicate a very specific style of superheroes, one that was prominent on television screens of that era. This includes incorporating budget limitations as well as what we call Climactic Fight Scenes, which are the big, rollicking slugfests found at the end of each episode.”
The game utilizes a heavily modified version of Barak Blackburn’s Intention System, the game engine found in Retrostar, Stories from the Grave and On the Air. It offers fast-paced game play that emphasizes collaborative storytelling.
“It’s really a perfect game for gamers who lead busy lives, as the prep time is minimal,” says Miller. “It takes minutes to create Player Characters and potentially even less for most Showrunner Characters. Even preparing episodes is a snap, given that the players have some control over a good portion of the narration. The Showrunner decides on a villain, figures out their master plan and makes a few notes. Viola!”
BIFF! BAM! KAPOW! also boasts a sample series called The Adventures of Hoot Owl, complete with setting details, behind-the-scenes information and write-ups for numerous heroes, villains and supporting characters.
You can purchase BIFF! BAM! KAPOW! here.