Editing Peril:RPG/Kabooms (section)

== Earning Kabooms ==

A character earns a Kaboom when their behavior creates a genuine complication and that complication fits the character.

Common ways to earn one include invoking a Running Gag, making an obviously bad but in-character decision, panicking, taking bait, making an existing problem worse, or volunteering a complication that gives the Editor something useful to work with.

The important word is '''genuine'''. Repeating a joke without affecting the scene does not earn anything.

=== Running Gags ===

Running Gags are the most reliable source of Kabooms.

Mastermind refuses to admit an obvious mistake. Chameleon finds a reason to leave when things become dangerous. The Cavalier stops in the middle of a crisis because he assumes someone wants an autograph. Mister Chips gives sensible advice, is ignored, and disaster follows.

When that behavior actually complicates the issue:

'''KABOOM!'''

=== Bad Decisions ===

If the player knows something is a terrible idea but the character would absolutely do it, that can earn a Kaboom when it creates trouble.

Tokyo Joe charging a giant robot before hearing the plan is in character. Mister Chips doing the same thing for no reason probably is not.

Random stupidity is not enough. The bad decision should reveal something about the character.

=== Panic and Cowardice ===

Running, hiding, screaming, surrendering, disguising yourself as furniture, pointing at another hero or suddenly remembering an urgent appointment may all earn a Kaboom if the reaction fits the character and makes the situation worse.

This is especially useful when the heroes are badly outmatched. An overwhelmingly powerful villain is not a failed encounter; it is an opportunity for panic, bad decisions and later revenge.

=== Taking the Bait ===

Sometimes the Editor puts a character's weakness directly in front of them.

The player could ignore it.

They do not.

Dr. Quake hears somebody call him '''Kwak'''. The Cavalier sees a camera. Chameleon notices an exit.

If taking the bait creates trouble, award a Kaboom.