Ma Nishtana: Why is this Night Different? is a Jewish tabletop role-playing game about the Passover Seder. The title is based on the Ma Nishtana section of the Seder. Players assume the roles of characters from the Book of Exodus. The game was written and designed by cousins Gabrielle Rabinowitz and Ben Bisogno. It was illustrated by Katrin Dirim. Ma Nishtana was published in 2023 after a successful Kickstarter campaign raised $8,042. It was nominated for two 2023 Indie Game Developer Network awards, "Best Rules" and "Best Art."[1][2][3]
| Why is this Night Different? | |
|---|---|
| Designers | Gabrielle Rabinowitz and Ben Bisogno |
| Illustrators | Katrin Dirim |
| Publication | 2023 |
| Genres | Tabletop role-playing game |
Gameplay
editUnlike typical tabletop role-playing games, Ma Nishtana does not use dice. Instead, it guides play through storytelling prompts and special character class moves. Players take turns assuming gamemaster responsibilities.[1] Any player can interrupt and alter the story by calling out “Wait! Wait! Wait!” Every scene in the game includes a ritual component.[2]
Themes
editMa Nishtana focuses on themes of family, identity, and community struggles. The theme of plagues was inspired by both the Passover Seder and the COVID-19 pandemic, which had just begun when Rabinowitz and Bisogno began designing the game.[2]
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References
edit- ^ a b Carter, Chase (2022-04-21). "Passover RPG Ma Nishtana lets players tell a collaborative Exodus ritual". Dicebreaker. Retrieved 2024-09-22.
- ^ a b c Eanet, Lindsay (2023-05-12). "With goblins, spellcasters and holiday heroes, board game makers are imagining new Jewish worlds". Jewish Telegraphic Agency. Retrieved 2024-09-22.
- ^ "Indie Groundbreakers Awards". Indie Game Developer Network. Retrieved 2024-09-22.