Introduction
Blood on the Clocktower (BOTC) is a social deduction game that has captivated players with its intricate roles, dynamic storytelling, and player-driven narratives. One of the most exciting aspects of the game is the ability to create custom scripts—known as “homebrew” scripts—that tailor the experience to different playstyles, themes, and group dynamics.
A BOTC Homebrew Script Maker is a tool (or a process) that allows players to design their own unique scripts by selecting and balancing roles from the official game and custom fan-made content. This article explores how to create a balanced and engaging homebrew script, the best tools available, and tips for ensuring a fun and fair game.
1. Understanding BOTC Scripts
Before diving into script creation, it’s essential to understand what a script is in Blood on the Clocktower.
- A script is a predefined list of characters that will be in play for a particular game.
- The official game comes with three core scripts: Trouble Brewing, Bad Moon Rising, and Satan’s Little Helpers.
- A homebrew script is a custom-made script that mixes official and unofficial roles to create a unique gameplay experience.
Why Make a Homebrew Script?
- Variety – Keeps the game fresh by introducing new interactions.
- Thematic Play – Allows for themed scripts (e.g., horror, fantasy, sci-fi).
- Balance Tweaks – Adjusts roles to fit specific group dynamics.
- Creativity – Lets players experiment with new mechanics.
2. How to Make a Balanced Homebrew Script
Creating a balanced script is crucial to ensure that neither the Good nor Evil team has an unfair advantage. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Choose a Theme (Optional)
- Decide if you want a general script or a themed one (e.g., “Vampire Masquerade,” “Cyberpunk Betrayal”).
- Themes can influence role selection and storytelling.
Step 2: Select Roles
- Base Game Roles – Start with familiar roles from Trouble Brewing for beginners.
- Experimental Roles – Add custom or advanced roles for complexity.
- Role Distribution:
- Townsfolk (Information roles, protective roles, etc.)
- Outsiders (Roles that hinder Good but add intrigue)
- Minions (Supporting Evil roles with unique abilities)
- Demons (The primary Evil killer)
Step 3: Ensure Balance
- Information Balance – Avoid too many strong info roles (e.g., multiple Seer-like abilities).
- Kill Mechanics – Ensure Evil has enough killing power but not too much.
- Bluffing Potential – Evil should have viable bluff options.
- Interaction Potential – Roles should synergize or counter each other.
Step 4: Playtest
- Run test games to see how the script plays.
- Adjust roles that feel too strong or weak.
3. Tools for Homebrew Script Making
Several online tools help streamline the script creation process:
1. Official BOTC Script Tool (https://script.bloodontheclocktower.com)
- The official tool by Pandemonium Institute.
- Allows drag-and-drop role selection.
- Includes all official roles.
2. Clocktower.online (https://clocktower.online)
- A fan-made tool with additional features.
- Supports custom roles and experimental scripts.
3. Google Sheets / Notion Templates
- Some players create spreadsheets to track role interactions.
- Useful for large, complex scripts.
4. Discord Communities (e.g., BOTC Homebrew Servers)
- Get feedback from experienced players.
- Share and refine scripts collaboratively.
4. Tips for a Great Homebrew Script
1. Start Simple
- If new to script-making, begin with minor tweaks to Trouble Brewing.
- Gradually introduce advanced roles.
2. Avoid Overpowered Combos
- Example: Too many protective roles (Monk + Soldier + Innkeeper) can make Evil’s job too hard.
- Example: Too many info roles can make it easy for Good to solve the game.
3. Include Fun Interactions
- Example: A Pit-Hag modifying a Sailor creates chaos.
- Example: A Lunatic thinking they’re the Al-Hadikhia leads to hilarious confusion.
4. Consider Player Count
- Smaller games (5-8 players) need simpler scripts.
- Larger games (10-15 players) can handle more complexity.
5. Keep Evil Engaged
- Ensure Evil has bluffing opportunities.
- Avoid scripts where Evil is too easily exposed.
5. Example Homebrew Script: “Shadows & Deception”
Here’s an example of a balanced homebrew script:
Townsfolk (8)
- Empath (Gets info about neighbors)
- Fortune Teller (Detects Demons with some false positives)
- Undertaker (Learns dead players’ roles)
- Ravenkeeper (Learns a player’s role upon death)
- Chef (Knows how many Evil pairs sit together)
- Librarian (Learns an Outsider in play)
- Investigator (Starts knowing two players are Minions or Outsiders)
- Amnesiac (Slowly learns their ability)
Outsiders (2)
- Drunk (Thinks they’re a Townsfolk but aren’t)
- Recluse (May register as Evil)
Minions (2)
- Spy (Sees all Grimoire info and registers as Good)
- Scarlet Woman (Can become the Demon if the Demon dies early)
Demon (1)
- Imp (Kills nightly, can self-sacrifice to pass Demonhood)
Why This Works:
- Balanced Info – Good has tools but not overwhelming.
- Evil Bluffing – Spy can fake being a Townsfolk, Scarlet Woman adds backup.
- Chaos Elements – Drunk and Recluse introduce uncertainty.
6. Sharing and Testing Your Script
Once your script is ready:
- Share Online – Post it on BOTC forums or Discord for feedback.
- Run Test Games – Play with friends to see how it feels.
- Iterate – Adjust roles based on feedback.
Conclusion
Creating a BOTC Homebrew Script is an exciting way to enhance your Blood on the Clocktower experience. By carefully selecting roles, ensuring balance, and playtesting, you can craft a script that offers fresh challenges and endless fun. Whether you’re using official tools or experimenting with custom roles, the key is to keep the game engaging for both Good and Evil players.
Now, grab your Grimoire, gather your group, and start scripting! The next great BOTC story could be yours to tell.
