I wrote my own TTRPG in part because finding a table that * fits my schedule * has an empty seat Is impossible. I am also too smoothe brained to DM DND, so I made a simpler version with zombie survival.

Only reason I use DND is players like to basically play "mechanics dress up doll", and most people are familiar with DND. I pretty well ignore any actual rules and just wing it when it comes to checks and combat. My players know this I'm very upfront about how I DM. We're already playing pretend so I found many players are down to pretend I'm paying attention to rules and that dice rolls mean anything specific

Thank you for saying this, my confidence is boosted Perhaps I can just start with homebrew DND and learn the rules and creatures as I go. I tried reading a campaign book and was immediately overwhelmed. I can play DND just fine, but running a proper campaign requires knowing creatures and loot pools and every plot point and scenario ahead of time. My regular DM has been running our DND in a similar manner, homebrew with the rules for combat. He's more experienced in DND, but I know he will just let us do what our characters will do, and our last 3 sessions have completely ended differently than the DM planned for. Not gone off the rails, but gone in a different direction that still fit their story.

My players havent played in 3 weeks and one took all the gambles...failed all of them. Their character of 3 years almost died. She is at 10 HP rn. TRAPPED IN A POKET DIMENSION!