RPG Design Patterns

I highly recommend this book by John Kirk for those table-top RPG designers, Gamemasters, and even players who want to understand how the nuts and bolts of the varying design elements can make a game work (or not work) in supporting design goals.

Design Patterns of Successful Role-playing Games

Even if one disagrees with any of the specifics contained within, it definitely can serve as fodder for thought. It has greatly influenced some of the decisions I’ve been making in my own designs.

~Adaen