Reflections on 100 Episodes of Resident Roleplay

This Saturday, after nearly three years and 360 hours of play, we are scheduled to broadcast the 100th episode of Resident Roleplay. As I look back on the journey we've taken to get here, I find many deep joys and heartfelt regrets. I suppose that's to be expected with any long-form storytelling, let alone the first tabletop RPG campaign I've ever run. In hindsight there were many things I would have done differently, but also many things that couldn't have turned out any better if I tried. I could ruminate on specific instances where I felt I failed my players, or specific highlights of major successes (and perhaps there will be a time for that when the campaign is over), but for now I'd like to reflect on what 100 episodes has done for me as a whole.

These 100 episodes have sharpened my storytelling. These 100 episodes improved my writing. These 100 episodes expanded my breadth of voices. These 100 episodes reminded me of the power of collaboration. These 100 episodes reminded me of the potency of communication. These 100 episodes made me laugh when I wouldn't have otherwise. These 100 episodes showed me how to solve new problems. These 100 episodes brought me further out of my shell. These 100 episodes expanded my empathy. These 100 episodes showed me how to be open and vulnerable with others. These 100 episodes taught me how to be a better man.

But more so than anything, these 100 episodes have given me unexpected friendships that I hope to keep the rest of my days. And with them, an unlikely group of fictional characters that will no doubt stick with me forever. To the survivors (and fallen) of Resident Roleplay, this party, my friends: I love you. I thank God for the privilege of telling this story with you for 100 episodes. I can only hope the ending is as impactful and satisfying as the journey it took to get there...