Hello there! I’ve been OSR-curious for a few years now. I like sandbox games where the dice decide reactions, weather, random encounters, etc because that keeps things interesting even for the GM. Incidentally, it also works great for solo play which I like.
However, while the older versions of D&D and retro clones commonly associated with OSR are good games, they’re not my preferred type of game. I want the “powers” that newer games gives me as a player, with more mechanics per class. Therefore, I prefer games like Pathfinder over Old School Essentials.
So, while I think I have a decent grasp of what OSR is, I’m not quite sure what NSR is; my impression is that NSR means “playing in the OSR style, but with modern mechanics”. Is that correct, or maybe I’m completely off the track?
There are no precise definitions, no good distinction, and nobody really needs one anyways.
My personal definition: NSR is OSR without the nostalgia. So instead of glorifying old D&D versions, NSR games remove unnecessary complexity and the systems are simpler but just as fun.