Interludes give players a way to get to know their own characters, reveal their backstories, or even add to the lore of the world you’re all building together.
When to Use These Rules: The GM might call for an Interlude when the party gathers around the campfire, travels across Golarion, or socializes at the local tavern.
The Basics: Players tell a story from their character’s point of view and are rewarded with a Benny.
When you want to give your players a moment to catch their breath and get into character, allow those who want to take part to draw a card from the Action Deck. The suit of the card gives each player three choices: Downtime, Backstory, or Trek. If a player draws a Joker give everyone a Benny and let them choose the suit and category!
Downtime: What the hero does when left alone. A priest might quietly read a holy text while a warrior constantly sharpens his blades.
Backstory: A tale of the character’s past, told through her voice and narration.
Trek: The story of an obstacle or challenge the party encountered on the trip.
Spades
Downtime: The character spends time alone in quiet contemplation. What does she do?
Backstory: A great victory or personal triumph.
Trek: A difficult obstacle the group negotiated along the way.
Hearts
Downtime: The hero practices a skill. What is it?
Backstory: A tale of the hero’s greatest love— lost, found, present, or waiting on her back home.
Trek: The party met someone along the way—merchants, fellow travelers, a renowned bard or hero, etc. Who were they and what happened?
Diamonds
Downtime: The character studies or works on an object of some sort. What is it?
Backstory: Something your hero wants or already has. It might be a material possession, recognition, a political goal, or even a trip he wishes to take to some amazing destination.
Trek: How the group found something that helped them along the way, such as an oasis, minor treasure, food or water, friendly locals, etc.
Clubs
Downtime: Your hero broods or is angry about something. What is it, and how does she misbehave?
Backstory: A tale of misfortune from your hero’s past, perhaps revealing something of his Hindrances or a dark secret.
Trek: A hardship the party overcame on their trip: the tragic death of a favored Extra, spoiled or lost supplies, a mechanical breakdown, abysmal weather, and so on.