A Writer’s Journey Through Tephra: From Crack Monocle to Parlor Games

By Charlie Stayton, Behind the Die

The world of tabletop roleplaying games is full of innovative systems and imaginative settings, but few hold a place in my heart quite like Tephra. As a writer and developer for this steampunk RPG, I had the unique privilege of being part of its growth—from its early days under Crack Monocle to its transition into the hands of Parlor Games. This journey was one of creativity, collaboration, and the ever-burning steam of invention.

The Early Days: Crack Monocle’s Vision

Tephra emerged as a fresh take on steampunk roleplaying, diverging from traditional RPG mechanics in favor of a streamlined, modular system powered by a d12. Crack Monocle’s vision was one of accessibility and depth—where players could build intricate characters and craft their own fantastical contraptions without getting bogged down in cumbersome mechanics.

As a writer, I was drawn to the rich lore of Tephra. Its world, an intricate tapestry of political intrigue, airships, and clockwork marvels, provided endless narrative opportunities. I had the pleasure of contributing to world-building elements, fleshing out cultures, histories, and conflicts that shaped the lands of Tephra. It was a dream to create adventures where alchemists, gunslingers, and mechanists could shine.

Evolution and Change: The Transition to Parlor Games

With growth comes change, and as Tephra shifted from Crack Monocle to Parlor Games, the challenge was to ensure the game retained its heart while refining its mechanics and expanding its lore. This transition was not without its hurdles—new leadership meant new perspectives, and adapting to these while staying true to the core experience required balance.

One of the most rewarding aspects of this phase was expanding the game’s supplements and storytelling potential. Whether it was deepening the political tensions between factions or designing new character options, the opportunity to revisit and refine our work was invaluable. The passion of the community also played a key role—players and Narrators (game masters) who had embraced Tephra from the start provided insights that helped shape its next chapter.

Lessons from a Steampunk World

Tephra remains a testament to the power of collaborative storytelling in RPGs. Working on this project reinforced my belief in the importance of player agency, world depth, and mechanical flexibility. Steampunk as a genre thrives on the fusion of innovation and history, and Tephra embodied this beautifully.

Looking back, I’m grateful for my time as a writer and developer in this world. It was a privilege to help bring the gears and cogs of Tephra to life, and I look forward to seeing how its story continues to unfold. For those who have yet to explore its world, there’s never been a better time to dive in.

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