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Panic at the Dojo – A Unique Martial Arts Tabletop Game

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Panic at the Dojo is a dynamic tabletop game for 3-5 players, set in a world where martial arts dominate everyday life. Imagine if the wild, over-the-top combat of Jackie Chan Adventures was real and served as the core mechanic for resolving mundane conflicts. This game allows players to embody skilled fighters who settle disputes through high-stakes battles.

Panic at the Dojo TTRPG Review

Colorful comic-style illustration featuring characters outside a game store. The scene takes place at night on a city street, with two storefronts prominently displayed: "Liberigothica Games" and "Panic at the Dojo by Vel Mini." On the left, a blonde-haired character wearing glasses and a red outfit holds a long object, possibly a scroll or weapon, and looks back over their shoulder with a cautious expression. In the foreground, a character with dark hair styled in an exaggerated pompadour and a red jacket is shown dramatically falling backward. On the right, three other characters are in dynamic action poses: a muscular figure with silver hair and a green sash throwing a punch, another character with long white hair and a leopard-print coat preparing to strike, and a skeletal figure poised to jump from the background. The image is vibrant and action-packed, conveying a sense of urgency and excitement.

Panic at the Dojo Game’s Setting

In this modern yet slightly magical world, personal conflicts—like overdue rent or petty theft—are resolved through martial arts. Characters engage in intense, dramatic combat, utilizing everything from punches and sword swings to explosions and improvised weapons. The game captures the spirit of martial arts films and anime, with fighters shouting attack names and unleashing special techniques handed down through generations.

Character Roles and Customization

Players take on the roles of average individuals who are also skilled fighters, each trying to carve out their own niche. The game emphasizes tactical positioning and whimsical, customized fighting styles that players build themselves. This customization adds depth and personal flair to each character, making the gameplay experience completely yours to own.

Game card for the Cyborg Archetype from "Panic at the Dojo." The card describes the Cyborg as a powerful, adaptable archetype that builds strength over time. Cyborgs use a flow of basic tokens to trigger unique actions, excelling in versatility and rapid power accumulation. Token management is crucial for Cyborgs, requiring careful tracking to maintain a stock of necessary tokens. The card includes three Cyborg abilities: Focused Cyborg: At the start of your turn, gain four Basic Tokens of your choice. Fused Cyborg: At the start of your turn, gain two Basic Tokens of your choice. Frantic Cyborg: At the start of your turn, gain four Basic Tokens of your choice. These abilities allow Cyborgs to start their turn with various types of tokens, enhancing their strategic options. Cyborgs can also use Iron Form or Power Form to convert tokens. Armored Style: This style offers a range of 1-2 and has specific abilities: After spending Iron tokens, you heal 1. 2 Iron Tokens: You, Stay: Challenge an enemy within range, forcing them to discard three Speed tokens. The card emphasizes the importance of the Armored Ability, which enhances defense and healing by using Iron tokens. Spending tokens wisely is key to maximizing the effectiveness of the Armored Style. An illustration at the bottom depicts a cyborg character in a dynamic pose, emitting energy and surrounded by electric sparks, highlighting the powerful and futuristic nature of the Cyborg archetype.

Stance-Based Combat System in Panic at the Dojo

One of the standout features of Panic at the Dojo is its stance-based combat system. Characters can switch between different fighting stances, each providing bonuses and actions. This allows for dynamic gameplay where characters can adapt their strategies on the fly, ensuring they are always prepared for the challenges ahead.

Game card for Blaster Form from "Panic at the Dojo." The card is titled "Blaster Form" and lists alternate forms as Dragon, Dynamo, Gold, and Star Form. At the top, there are three green action dice showing the number 8. The card explains that your actions may apply to one extra target within range. When you add Blaster Form to a style, it increases that style's maximum range by 1. Abilities: 3+ Amplify: Your next action this turn has its range increased by 2 and may apply to up to three extra targets within range. 3+ or 6+ Shockwave: Deal 1 damage to every enemy within range. 6+: Deal 2 damage to one enemy within range. Basically Magic: You have an ability that's beyond normal, like lycanthropy, telekinesis, fire magic, or a collection of gadgets. When you take this skill, write down what kind of power you have. Description: Blaster's Ability allows you to apply your actions to an additional target for free, every time you use an action. This extra target is always optional and cannot target anything the action is already targeting. You can't 'double up.' If you cannot use the extra target, you do not get to use it.

Combat is turn-based and symmetrical, with heroes and enemies alternating turns. There is no fixed initiative order; any hero can take their turn when it’s the heroes’ turn, adding a layer of strategic decision-making. Each stance has its own set of action dice, which players roll to determine the strength and effectiveness of their actions.

Combat Dynamics

The combat system ensures that actions never miss—dice rolls determine the power of actions rather than their success. This results in fluid, chain-like moves that reflect each character’s specific fighting style. The order of actions matters significantly; stronger moves often push enemies away, requiring players to carefully sequence their attacks to maximize impact.

Whimsical and Engaging Gameplay

Panic at the Dojo offers a whimsical yet tactical combat experience that blends humor and strategy. Players will find themselves in hilarious yet intense battles, akin to the exaggerated conflicts seen in martial arts films. The game’s unique blend of over-the-top combat and strategic depth ensures it stands out in the tabletop gaming landscape.

Is Panic at the Dojo the TTRPG for you?

Panic at the Dojo is a refreshing addition to the tabletop gaming world, offering a mix of martial arts action and strategic gameplay. Its stance-based combat system, character customization, and engaging world-building make it a must-play for fans of martial arts, tactical games, and those looking for a fun, chaotic experience. These aren’t just fights, though. They’re high-flying, action-packed events that will have you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end. Be sure to purchase Panic at the Dojo at DiveThruRPG!

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