Developing the Fixer System in Infinite Frontiers

Introduction

In the Roleplaying Game (RPG) Mode of Infinite Frontiers, the traditional role of the Game Master (GM) is reimagined through the introduction of the Fixer system. The Fixer is not merely an overseer or referee but an integral part of the player group, participating directly in the narrative while facilitating the game's progression. This innovative approach promotes collaborative storytelling, shared character development, and a more immersive gaming experience.

This section provides a comprehensive guide to the Fixer system, detailing its mechanics, responsibilities, and how it differs from traditional GMs. It offers tools, guidance, and inspiration to help you integrate the Fixer role into your campaigns effectively.

9.1 Understanding the Fixer Role

9.1.1 Who is the Fixer?

In the universe of Infinite Frontiers, a Fixer is a person who:

Connects people with opportunities: They have a network of contacts, providing jobs, information, and resources.
Navigates the underworld and corporate spheres: Skilled at maneuvering through various factions and power structures.
Acts as a facilitator: Both in-game, by arranging missions and deals, and out-of-game, by guiding the narrative.

9.1.2 The Dual Role of the Fixer

The Fixer operates on two levels:

As a Character: The Fixer is a playable character with attributes, talents, and equipment. They participate in missions, interact with other characters, and have personal goals.
As a Facilitator: The Fixer guides the story, introduces plot elements, controls NPCs, and manages the game world's responses to player actions.

9.1.3 Benefits of the Fixer System

Player Inclusion: The Fixer remains engaged as a player, avoiding the isolation that GMs sometimes feel.
Collaborative Storytelling: Encourages shared narrative control and creativity.
Dynamic Growth: The Fixer's progression mirrors that of the other characters, enriching the game world organically.

9.2 Mechanics of the Fixer System

9.2.1 Fixer Character Creation

Creating a Fixer character involves the same process as standard character creation, with additional considerations:

Attributes and Talents: Allocate points to reflect the Fixer's strengths in negotiation, networking, and resourcefulness.
Background: Develop a rich backstory that explains the Fixer's connections and influence.
Goals and Motivations: Establish personal objectives that align with facilitating the group's adventures.

9.2.2 Fixer's Network

The Fixer's network is a key resource, representing contacts, favors, and information sources:

Contacts: Individuals or groups the Fixer can call upon for assistance.
Reputation: A measure of the Fixer's standing in various circles, influencing the quality and quantity of opportunities.
Growth: The network expands as the Fixer completes missions, makes new alliances, or gains notoriety.

9.2.3 Resource Management

The Fixer manages certain game elements:

Job Offers: Introduces missions and opportunities to the group.
Information Flow: Controls the dissemination of intelligence, rumors, and leads.
NPC Control: Plays the roles of key NPCs during interactions.

9.2.4 Balancing Dual Roles

To maintain fairness and engagement:

Transparency: The Fixer should separate in-character knowledge from facilitator knowledge.
Conflict of Interest: Avoid using facilitator knowledge to benefit the Fixer character unfairly.
Delegation: Encourage other players to contribute to world-building and NPC interactions.

9.3 Responsibilities of the Fixer

9.3.1 Narrative Facilitation

Scene Setting: Describe environments, events, and sensory details to immerse players.
Plot Development: Introduce challenges, conflicts, and plot twists that drive the story forward.
Pacing: Manage the flow of the game to maintain engagement and excitement.

9.3.2 NPC Management

Role-Playing NPCs: Act out the personalities, motivations, and dialogue of non-player characters.
Dynamic Interactions: Respond to player actions in a way that is consistent with NPC traits and the game world.
Conflict Resolution: Use NPCs to present obstacles or aid, facilitating character development and story progression.

9.3.3 World Building

Environment Creation: Develop settings that are rich and varied, enhancing the gaming experience.
Factions and Politics: Establish organizations, corporations, and groups that influence the world.
Lore and History: Integrate background information that adds depth to the universe.

9.4 Fixer Character Development

9.4.1 Progression and Growth

The Fixer's character evolves alongside the group:

Experience Points (XP): Earn XP through missions and roleplaying, used to improve attributes and talents.
Network Expansion: Gain new contacts and strengthen existing relationships.
Resource Acquisition: Accumulate wealth, equipment, and influence.

9.4.2 Personal Goals

Objective Alignment: The Fixer's goals should complement the group's objectives, providing motivation and cohesion.
Character Arcs: Develop storylines that explore the Fixer's background, challenges, and evolution.
Conflict and Resolution: Incorporate personal dilemmas or rivalries that add depth without overshadowing other players.

9.4.3 Influence on the Game World

Reputation Impact: The Fixer's actions affect their standing, opening or closing opportunities.
Factions Reactions: How the Fixer interacts with different groups can alter alliances and enmities.
Legacy: The Fixer's achievements contribute to the larger narrative, leaving a lasting mark on the game world.

9.5 Interaction with Players

9.5.1 Collaborative Decision-Making

Inclusivity: Encourage all players to contribute ideas and participate in storytelling.
Consensus Building: Facilitate discussions to reach group decisions on missions and strategies.
Empowerment: Allow players to influence the direction of the narrative through their choices.

9.5.2 Managing Information

Selective Disclosure: Provide players with the information their characters would know, maintaining suspense and discovery.
Clarity: Ensure that players understand the rules, mechanics, and consequences of their actions.
Feedback Loop: Solicit player input on the game's progress and adjust accordingly.

9.5.3 Handling Conflicts

Fairness: Mediate disputes impartially, focusing on maintaining a positive gaming environment.
Rule Interpretation: Apply rules consistently, but remain flexible to serve the narrative and enjoyment.
Player Dynamics: Be attentive to group dynamics, addressing any issues that may arise.

9.6 Tools and Resources for Fixers

9.6.1 Roll Tables

NPC Generation: Tables for creating diverse and interesting characters on the fly.
Event Triggers: Random encounters, plot twists, or environmental changes to keep the game unpredictable.
Loot and Rewards: Determine the outcome of missions and discoveries.

9.6.2 Guidance on Campaign Creation

Story Arcs: Frameworks for developing short-term and long-term narratives.
Session Planning: Tips for preparing sessions that balance combat, exploration, and roleplaying.
World-Building Prompts: Questions and ideas to flesh out settings, cultures, and histories.

9.6.3 Inspiration Sources

Theme Exploration: Delve into cyberpunk tropes, moral dilemmas, and societal issues.
Media References: Draw inspiration from books, films, and games that align with the game's themes.
Collaborative Workshops: Engage players in creating elements of the game world.

9.7 Balancing the Fixer's Dual Roles

9.7.1 Separation of Knowledge

In-Character vs. Facilitator Knowledge: The Fixer must distinguish between what their character knows and what they know as the facilitator.
Metagaming Avoidance: Refrain from using facilitator insights to gain unfair advantages in-character.

9.7.2 Maintaining Fairness

Equal Spotlight: Ensure all players have opportunities to shine and contribute meaningfully.
Conflict of Interest Management: Be mindful of situations where the Fixer's dual role could create bias.

9.7.3 Delegating Responsibilities

Shared NPC Control: Allow players to role-play minor NPCs or contribute to world-building.
Co-Facilitators: In larger groups, another player might assist with certain facilitator tasks.

9.8 Examples and Scenarios

9.8.1 Example Fixer Character: Nova

Background:
Nova is a savvy negotiator and former corporate insider who now operates as an independent Fixer. With a vast network spanning from street gangs to corporate executives, Nova specializes in acquiring sensitive information and brokering high-stakes deals.
Attributes:
Mind: 5
Body: 2
Spirit: 5
Talents:
Negotiation: 5
Perception: 4
Hacking: 3
Willpower: 4
Combat (Ranged): 2
Network:
Contacts:

Corporate Informant: Provides insider information on corporate activities.

Street Gang Leader: Offers muscle and street-level intel.

Black Market Dealer: Source for rare or illegal equipment.

9.8.2 Sample Scenario: The Double Cross

Setup:
The team is hired to retrieve a prototype device from a secure facility. Unbeknownst to them, a rival faction plans to intercept the device during the mission.
Fixer's Role:
As Facilitator:

Introduces the job through one of their contacts.

Orchestrates the rival faction's interference to create tension.

Manages NPC interactions and combat encounters.

As Character:

Participates in planning the heist, offering insights.

Navigates negotiations with potential allies or informants.

Deals with personal connections that may complicate the mission.

Balancing:

Information Control: The Fixer ensures players receive hints about the impending double-cross without revealing everything.

Conflict Resolution: Mediates between team members when disagreements arise over strategy.

9.9 Expanding the Fixer's Influence

9.9.1 Network Advancement

Earning Favors: Completing missions may earn the Fixer favors from contacts.
Building Alliances: Forming alliances with factions can open new opportunities.
Reputation Management: Actions have consequences; the Fixer's reputation can aid or hinder progress.

9.9.2 Resource Allocation

Investments: The Fixer can invest resources into businesses or endeavors that provide passive benefits.
Asset Acquisition: Owning properties, vehicles, or facilities that support the team's activities.

9.9.3 Personal Storylines

Rivalries: Develop rival Fixers or adversaries that challenge the Fixer's position.
Moral Dilemmas: Situations that force the Fixer to choose between personal gain and the team's welfare.
Legacy: The Fixer's actions contribute to shaping the game world's future.

9.10 Integrating the Fixer System into Your Game

9.10.1 Session Zero

Establish Roles: Discuss the Fixer's role with the group to set expectations.
Define Boundaries: Agree on how the Fixer's dual role will function.
Collaborative World-Building: Involve players in creating the setting and initial scenarios.

9.10.2 Ongoing Communication

Feedback Mechanisms: Regularly check in with players to address any concerns.
Adjustments: Be willing to modify approaches based on group dynamics and preferences.

9.10.3 Embracing Flexibility

Adaptability: Allow the narrative to evolve organically based on player actions.
Shared Storytelling: Encourage players to contribute creatively, enhancing the collaborative experience.

9.11 Advantages and Challenges

9.11.1 Advantages

Enhanced Engagement: The Fixer's active participation keeps all players invested.
Dynamic Storytelling: Shared narrative control leads to richer, more diverse stories.
Personal Investment: The Fixer's growth parallels that of the team, fostering a sense of shared destiny.

9.11.2 Challenges

Role Clarity: Maintaining clear distinctions between character actions and facilitator responsibilities.
Bias Avoidance: Ensuring the Fixer does not dominate the narrative or overshadow other players.
Conflict Management: Navigating disagreements that may arise from shared control.

9.12 Tips for Successful Fixer Play

Prioritize Fun: The ultimate goal is for everyone to enjoy the game.
Stay Organized: Keep notes on NPCs, plot threads, and world details.
Be Open-Minded: Embrace player ideas and be willing to adjust plans.
Foster Teamwork: Encourage collaboration both in-game and out-of-game.
Continuous Learning: Reflect on sessions to identify areas for improvement.

9.13 Conclusion

The Fixer system in Infinite Frontiers offers a fresh take on the traditional Game Master role, fostering a collaborative and immersive gaming experience. By balancing the dual responsibilities of character and facilitator, the Fixer enriches the narrative, promotes player engagement, and contributes to a dynamic and evolving game world.

Embracing the Fixer role requires open communication, mutual trust, and a shared commitment to storytelling. With the guidance and tools provided in this section, you are equipped to integrate the Fixer system into your campaigns, unlocking new possibilities and adventures in the infinite expanse of the cosmos.

End of Section 9: The Fixer System

Rulebook

Developing the Fixer System in Infinite Frontiers