So, my previous idea pretty much sucked, but I do still think an RPG set in modern times is an interesting idea, especially if it can be pulled off with non-sci-fi monsters.
So here's the thing. I have two main ideas, but I need to pick one. Yes, this one WILL lead to an actual project. I'm working on some complex event systems for the menu already, and I'm playing with the tiles to get used to them. C:

Both of my concepts are (at least partially) based on real things. One is from micronaps, when you sleep a little without actually sleeping, and you see your dreams mixed with the real world. The other is based on unethical human experimentation. That is, an experiment carried out either without the subjects' knowledge or consent. Don't worry, I'll try to avoid anything too gory.

idea one
MC is a college student. Or he was. He got some pills from the store to help him stay up so he could study. He felt so full of energy, he lost the need to sleep. Three months later. Still no sleep. Around month one, he started having hallucinations due to his lack of sleep. And they weren't exactly pleasing ones. Heavy breathing outside his door. Faces at his window. Monsters from trees. You know the type. It got to the point where he was too frightened to concentrate on any one thing. After not doing any work for quite awhile, he got kicked out of school. Now he goes out into the world to find some sort of safety or comfort. First he needs to deal with the energy meds company.

idea two
MC is having issues holding down a job. He has some anger issues. Well, that's kind of an understatement. He punched his last boss in the face. Before that, he knocked down an annoying co-worker's cubicle with a chair. Now, it's impossible for him to find work and he's being hunted by the government. Lovely. After finally being caught, he discovers that on the day of his birth, all hospitals were issued an experimental drug to cause the subjects' brains to mature more quickly and to be naturally repulsed by illegal behavior. Obviously, that didn't exactly work out.

Obviously, both of these need a TON of work. But, which do you like better? Why? What can I do to improve them?

Pretty cool idea, but idea one is slightly reminiscent of "The Machinist"

Neither of them really appeal to me. Perhaps there's far more underlying details that that could make them stronger, more dramatic, but from my perspective I'd simply be guessing.

So it comes down to which one sounds the best, and I gotta be honest they both seem to have the same amount of potential. Thus, it relies on your talents as a designer. Shoot in the dark randomly and pick one. If you really need help deciding, go with the second. Or better yet, meld the first and the second together. The MC also hallucinates or goes into a "Nightmare" mode when he doesn't get enough sleep or is fatigued.

Thanks for the feedback!
I'm gonna work on them some more, perhaps meld them into one thing, and see how it works out!! :3