Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of games are played at Roles & Rolls?
R&R is devoted to role-playing games (sorry, no video games or Texas Hold Em). An RPG is a game in which players assume the roles of characters in a fictional setting. An interesting aspect of R&R is that many of the games at R&R have very light rules systems, for example, Fate, Dread, Ten Candles, Apocalypse World, or Monster Hearts. Sometimes they are even completely diceless, like Amber Diceless Roleplaying Game or Lords of Gossamer & Shadow. Quite often the games at R&R are the unpublished creations of our epic-level GMs. Usually characters are created over email or at the beginning of play. No experience needed, just a willingness to have fun.
How big is this con?
Typical event size is 2-4 concurrent games with 5-6 players each, so 14-25 people total.
When does it start?
The date: Saturday July 18, 2026
The time: come early and chit-chat, or splash in the pool if you like, starting around 10:30 am
The first game starts running at noon; the second game starts running at 6:30 PM
How do I sign up for games?
We will send you an email in June (or thereabouts) with the game book and you will be able to read the descriptions and choose which games you want to play.
Where are we Playing?
The con this year is once again at Ben and Madeline’s house, north of Seattle, ~1.5 miles from the Mountlake Terrace light rail station. Instructions and address will follow over email.
Are there any animals living with Ben and Madeline?
Not this year :( Just a couple kids!
What’s the illness stance?
Masks are welcome, but not required. If you actively have a cold, please text the organizers, and come next year instead of this year.
…”Covered outside gaming”?
Yes, there are two separate covered porches that could host games, for people who like a bit more air circulation! The hang-out areas are also outside, as are some entries and exits to the hang-out areas and covered porches. Regrettably, though, a person does have to venture inside to use the restrooms.
We have added questions about this to the reg forms, and if there are outside-only or outside-preferred gamers we will ensure those covered porches have heaters and light.
What should I bring?
Bring some food and drink for yourself and a bit extra to share. There is a potluck feel to the hang-out zone, but it’s not required to add anything. A notebook and pen is sometimes handy. A sense of humor and readiness to game required!
How do I submit a game to GM?
Games can be submitted on this website.
What are the important deadlines?
RSVP by: Friday June 5th
Games and Events due: Friday June 12th
Game book is live: Tuesday June 16th
Game registration closes Tuesday June 23rd
Game assignments: Friday June 26th
Game day: Saturday, July 18, 2026
What is the schedule on game day?
There are two gaming slots, 4.5 hours each, with a 2 hour break for dinner.
Registration and chit-chat 10:30 am - noon
Slot 1 noon - 4:30 pm
Dinner break 4:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Slot 2 6:30 pm - 11 pm (or Vinnie’s Happy Hour)
What is “Vinnie’s” Happy Hour?
Sometimes gamers don’t want to game. They just want to sit in lawn chairs in the backyard with a cold beverage and chat with gamer friends they see too rarely or learn more about those they’ve just met.
So, Vinnie’s Happy Hour was invented, to game OR socialize...or BOTH! It generally consists of lawn chairs, beverages, and gamers who didn’t sign up for a slot. BYOB food and drink contributions are welcome.
Why is it called “Vinnie’s”? After an extremely notable character that Kieran made. Come, sit in a lawn chair, grab a beverage, perhaps you will uncover the secret.
How did it all start?
R&R was conceived in the McMenamins Edgefield soaking pool at AmberCon Northwest in 2009 when Chris and Leslie were talking with Kath and Andi about what a shame it was that there were so many friends in the Seattle area who lived so close to each other – but we only saw each other once a year at ACNW.
So they launched a free, one-day gaming event that would take place in the summer, so that they’d have a chance to game and chat at least once between conventions. In 2017, after running the game for seven years, Leslie and Chris decided to retire from R&R. Since a summer game day is too fun to miss, Roberta and Paul have joined powers to keep R&R a lively and entertaining event.
Wait… Pool?
Yes, there is a pool at Ben and Madeline’s house, because the previous owners made a strange choice. If it turns out to be warm enough, or if you’re willing to gut it out, you’re welcome to swim! There are towels, and showers inside for after.
However, this does mean that young kids are not a good fit for the con. Apologies!
