I’ve got this blanket or bedspread from Ikea. I’ve had it for 20 years now, and it’s my favorite one. The other day I found it in the trash, and I yanked it out and washed it. My girlfriend Susan rolls her eyes and tries to understand what the hell is so great about that blanket. The best I could do is it’s like an old shoe. It’s a very familiar thing and has been well-loved.

I find the same thing happens with RPGs. I’ve got some that are full of holes and have loose threads on them. I don’t play them that often, but when I do, it’s like playing that bass guitar I haven’t really picked up in a while, even though it used to be my main axe. It’s like Kraft macaroni and cheese. It might not be the best, but it’s very familiar and comfortable.

There are different character types that I like to play, variations on the same personality or skill set. It feels natural and effortless.

Does familiarity breed contempt in this case? No, I don’t think so, but I will say, from experience, that at least for me, it’s not good to stay stuck there.

There are so many great games out there that it’s a shame not to try a whole bunch, even if they feel very alien. Playing different types of characters has been very rewarding as well. You do those things long enough, and they become familiar themselves.

Right now, I have 15 bass guitars hanging on the wall, and I play them all. Every single one of them feels like coming home.

There are an increasing number of RPGs on my shelf that feel the same way now.