Publisher's blurb: Prelude is a freeform role-playing game about physical and psychological exhaustion. The game is set in a backstage where a relatively successful band on a long and consuming tour is having a preshow meeting. The game emphasizes relationships, dramatic conflict and character immersion. The game is optimized for six players and a GM (game master) or for six players, one of whom acts as a GM. Optionally, the game can be played with fewer (minimum of three) or more players (suggested maximum of eight; additional characters not provided). Character creation, game and debriefing lasts about 2-3 hours. “The excitement is long since gone. There is absolutely no glamour in the endless backstages lacking all comfort; shitty gigs in the middle of nowhere; having to share everything with a group of retards; longing for my home, my family. When I was new to this I thought there would be fame, money, respect and creativity. We got none of them. This is a menial job at its best. And what about our fucked up band? On our first record we were authentic, ambitious and fresh. After that we just sold ourselves to the label. Producer composed too much of our record, we played along like puppets. Some in the band no longer give a rat’s ass about our music, others are so fucking cocky because ‘they are rock stars now’. What have we become? I am on the edge – I am ready to quit this whole thing.”