Since moving out here to the boondocks, I’ve gained quite a bit of experience with solo role-play, and I’ve come to realize that solo really isn’t solo.
First, solo role-play might better be called “GM-less,” since it can be even more fun for group play.
Second, it’s a surprisingly good way to develop or strengthen your own GM skills, by discovering simultaneously what happens on both sides of the table. You’re playing a character while also improvising the way a GM improvises as play unfolds.
Third, from my experience, mystery stories are the hardest of all, because players sometimes miss a clue altogether, or interpret as significant something that has nothing to do with the mystery’s secret.
Finally, you really can’t find a better source of GM-less insight than in Peter Rudin-Burgess’ Parts Per Million publications. The guy is brilliant, experimental, insightful, and full-time devoted to the art. And his prices are a bargain.
This Kickstarter project is a perfect introduction to his work. But only one day left to take advantage of it. Take a look! It’s time well spent for any table-top role-player or designer. You can click on the KS widget in my sidebar.