If you are looking for a tabletop experience that is equal parts whimsical and socially awkward, Seattle-based Ellen Exacto has launched a new project for ZineQuest 2026. Bikes are Magic: Goat Town! is a solo journaling RPG that casts you as a burned-out witch-in-training trying to navigate a very strange village.
The project is currently live and must reach its funding goal by Monday, March 16th, 2026.
The game blends elements of traditional tabletop RPGs with a choose-your-own-adventure style format. Players will explore the village, gather magical plants, talk to peculiar residents, and deal with the local goats. While the town literally contains a Hellmouth, the creator notes that “humans still provide the most challenging encounters.”
Mechanically, the game relies on a custom system called “The Exhaustion Engine”. This is designed to mimic the real-world effects of burnout. Players will need a standard set of polyhedral dice (D4, D6, D8, D10, D12, and D20) to resolve their actions and manage their dwindling energy.
Ellen Exacto is a self-described “old school zinester” returning to the medium. The zine itself will feature a cover and map by noted dungeon map artist Tony Dowler.
Keeping things simple and true to ZineQuest’s DIY spirit, the campaign offers just two straightforward pledge tiers. Note that physical shipping is restricted to the United States.
- Pledge $5 (approx. £4): The PDF Only tier. This secures a digital copy of the game, perfect for international backers or those who prefer to read on a screen.
- Pledge $10 (approx. £8): The Physical Zine + PDF tier. You receive the printed zine mailed via USPS, plus the digital PDF.
The project is all-or-nothing and will close on March 16th, 2026. Delivery is estimated for a very prompt May 2026.
