Atlas Games has announced that it will release the game system from the second edition of its Over the Edge role-playing game under the Open Game License.  Officially called the WaRP System (for "Wanton Role-Playing"), the new version of the game system will be released without trademark license.  The WaRP System Reference Document will contain all of the basic rules for playing Over the Edge, but will not include any of the game setting or background material. 

 

The WaRP System features a "free form" character creation system and story-focused mechanics, intended to encourage players to focus on character and plot development.

 

Atlas Games is celebrating the 20th anniversary of its Over the Edge game this year.  In addition to the OGL WaRP system, a new, deluxe limited edition core rulebook will be available in August, featuring a blue leatherette hardcover and exclusive extras.

 

The Over the Edge setting was originally released in 1992, and has had something of a cult following ever since.  The game is set on the mysterious island of Al Amarja, a fictitious Mediterranean nation, and features strange alien conspiracies, weird science, and surreal adventures.