This is the game for solo play right now. I certainly haven't encountered anything better on the market. Ironsworn is a game about a setting where dread, despair, and hopelessness are every day facts of life as humans try to rebuild their society in a harsh new land. The mechanics drive this home, where journeys are perilous and even small tasks can become disastrous with a poor roll. The thorough use of oracles and a set of rules that isn't afraid to spice things up make for a real drama - Ironsworn isn't a game about continual, effortless ascension. It's a game about the people who manage to survive (or not) despite trial and tribulation.

During no other roleplaying game, and certainly not during a solo game, have I ever felt myself so on edge to find out what happens next. It's not just a casual excitement like, "wow, this story is really good," but rather it's a strong emotional reaction that results from every dice roll feeling impactful.

Beyond that, I love Ironsworn for a couple of other reasons. Mechanically, it's really smart. The new (for PbtA) dice mechanic statistically reweights results toward a middle ground where drawbacks and complications are expected, which ensures the story doesn't stagnate on success. The momentum mechanic rewards you for preparation and careful, strategic play. And, maybe most importantly for solo gamers, the use of a new initiative system and player-facing moves means "GM work" is more storytelling than it is mechanical.

All in all, probably the best new rpg I've played all year.