New Idea: I'll just post in BOTH locations! And, yes, I did think of that on my own. 
So, the other day I had the change to play "A Penny For My Thoughts," and I have to say that it was amazing! None of us at the table were an R. A. Salvatore, but the mechanics of the game managed to produce a fantastic story! Or, rather, stories.
The basic idea of the game is that you are a group of amnesiacs who are trying to recall their past lives. Through the use of a powerful drug you are able to "hear" each other's thoughts and guide them to their true past. The instructions in the book are given in character (as it were) so that your characters are assumed to have access to the same rules. It's really quite ingenious and gives a fantastic way for players to immerse themselves in the stories they are telling. I was impressed. I'd never played a game quite like it before, though I am anxious to try out another similar story telling game called Polaris (yes, I know the premise is entirely different).
The truly amazing facet of this game is that you end up with four complete and intriguing stories in just three hours! That's the whole game! Obviously, for more long-lasting stories, D&D reigns supreme, but I found these stories to be more satisfying than nearly any other game I've ever played. That was surprising, but welcome.
I hope, as I move forward in writing supplements for 4E and as I DM, I will be able to incorporate the lessons I picked up on while playing Penny. Anyone who enjoys role playing games (and especially DMs and developers) would benefit from playing this once or twice (or every day). Mr. Tevis, excellent work!
Until next time!
Jared Glenn
