Grew up reading ERBurroughs/Tarzan and REHoward/Conan comics and books in the early 70's. Tolkien as well.  Bought my first RPG, the 3 booklet D&D rules back in 76'.  Couldn't make sense of them. Or find find anyone who could.  Moved on to Tunnels & Trolls that had some great solo Adventures.  As well as Melee & Wizardy/The Fantasy Trip.  Which lead to GURPS.  With side trips to Gamma World, The Morrow Project, MERPS, Rolemaster and Shadowrun.  Also got into Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay in the mid 80's.  Of course I have played my share of D&D, in one form or another.  When there was no other game in town.
Helping to create a great Story is at the top of my list.