PictishBeast wrote:I want them to roll a six-sided die 2x. Whatever numbers come up, they write an episode starring those characters. Repeat to generate every episode in S5.
This is a good idea: we don't need frills, just crazy pony friends interacting and conflicting is enough.
But since we've begun this line of thought, I'm going to Gygax it up and make some tables:
Roll 2d6, one red, one white, to determine ponies1:

2:

3:

4:

5:
6:
If red die is higher than white die, ponies are in conflict with each other. If white die is higher, ponies are teamed up against an outside challenge or character.
For doubles, roll a third die:
1: Three ponies in plot, roll another 2d6 to determine the other two.
2-3: The other character is Spike.
4: The other character is a CMC.
5-6: No Mane Six, it's a CMC only episode.
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Let's see what pony magic arises from this bloodless algorithm!
The Bald and the Beautiful: When a botched spa treatment causes Rarity and Fluttershy's manes to fall out, they set into the Everfree Forest to seek an herbal cure before anypony else sees them.
What'cha Doin'?: Sidelined by a sprained wing, Rainbow Dash looks forward to some quiet reading time, and struggles to escape Pinkie's attention without hurting her friend's feelings.
Four Legs Good: Something is making Ponyville's critters act crazy, and it's up to Applejack and Fluttershy to find out why!
The Lockhorns: Hard feelings develop when it becomes clear Twilight Sparkle isn't as regal or fabulous a princess as Rarity thinks she should be.