Free RPG List: fantasy

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Adamantia: Keywords: genre fantasy rules-lite world; A mini fantasy setting for RPG's: the capital city of the decayed Himli empire, population over 1 million. ~10 pages description (HTML).
Ad Astra: The New Age by Paul DuBois: Keywords: genre postapocalyptic fantasy scifi rules-lite long; A post-apocalypse science fantasy setting, with various alien races mixed with tribal humanity. An expanded version with GM-only information is available in print (not free). Character creation is point-based. ~60 pages basic rules and background (HTML).
The Adventurer's Guild by Chris Salzer: Keywords: genre traditional fantasy long; A medieval fantasy RPG, using a percentile skill-based system (tersely described). ~40 pages HTML rules
Aera Preview by Christian Fricke, Tobias Mannewitz, Stefan Koch, Sebastian Fricke: Keywords: genre fantasy long preview; A German-language fantasy RPG, the preview version of the commercial game. 100 pages basic rules and background (PDF).
The Agency: Saving the world in a groovy kind of way by Matt Machell: Keywords: genre modern fantasy rules-lite; An RPG where the PCs are 60's secret agents fighting the supernatural -- Austin Powers meets Buffy the Vampire Slayer, or the Avengers and Hammer Horror. It's intended to be a simple, light hearted system with lots of opportunity for heroics. It uses freeform skills rated on a five-step scale (Poor to Excellent). Action resolution is rolling d6s based on skill where every 5 or 6 is one success. 16 pages rules (PDF).
Age of Heroes LARP by George Stadalski & Monica Stadalski: Keywords: genre fantasy traditional rules-lite; A live-action fantasy-genre RPG. It has live-action resolution rules including skill and magic rules. It uses point-based character creation which also uses four classes. 30 pages rules (PDF,HTML).
Agyris by Daniel M. Davis: Keywords: genre fantasy long world; An original fantasy setting, created using the Fudge rules but largely systemless background. Agyris is world of many ancient mysteries of long lost empires and Fey powers, inhabited by an original set of seven races (humanity plus six others). ~150 pages (HTML).
The Allerian Empire: Keywords: genre traditional fantasy online; A "modified freeform fantasy play-by-post roleplaying adventure game over the internet". It uses freeform rules which are essentially social rules. ~2 pages HTML rules.
Among the Beautiful Creatures 2nd ed playtest by David Johansen: Keywords: genre fantasy rules-lite world; A baroque fantasy game in a world of unusual supernatural creatures. Character creation involves extensive descriptions and physical traits to describe a unique creature, plus three attributes (random-roll, 2d6) and a set of skills (freeform). Action resolution uses 2d6 and a universal table. 33 pages rules and background (PDF).
Altus Adventum Demo by Roderic Waibel: Keywords: genre fantasy traditional rules-lite preview; The preview version of a fantasy RPG set on an original fantasy world -- the continent Algerian on the planet of Azorath, inhabited by humans, elves, dwarves, and gnomes. It uses the "InertiaX System" which emphasizes flexibility and speed of resolution for combat. Action resolution is a stepped dice pool (1d4, 2d4, and on up to 4d20, 5d20). 23 pages (PDF).
Animalball Melee: Keywords: genre fantasy traditional rules-lite open-license; A simplified d20 combat engine for quick and easy gladiator fighting. 32 pages rules (PDF).
Anteas: L'archipel des cimes by Denis Pouchain: Keywords: genre fantasy long; A French-language fantasy RPG set in an original world. 100 pages rules and background (PDF).
Archeus by Colin Smith: Keywords: genre traditional fantasy long; A medieval fantasy RPG. It uses a simple percentile skill-based system. Character creation is random-roll attributes and a package of skills based on occupation. ~40 pages HTML rules (including races, skills, spells, and equipment).
ARG: The Adventure Role Play Gaming System by J.A. Partridge: Keywords: genre traditional fantasy long world; A fantasy-genre RPG set in the world of Anghar. It uses a detailed skill-based system, (skill+d20) vs difficulty. Character creation is random-roll attributes and point-bought skills. Background on Anghar is detailed separately. ~40 pages rules (HTML) plus ~20 pages background (HTML).
Ars Magica, 4th edition by Jonathan Tweet, Mark Rein*Hagen, Jeff Tidball, and John Nephew: Keywords: genre fantasy long preview; This is the complete and up-to-date version of the full commercial RPG, made available for free in PDF form by Atlas Games. It is set in a mythic version of medieval Europe, and the PCs are magicians who gather in secret covenants to learn their Art. It includes a highly in-depth magic system widely regarded as a classic of design. 272 pages rules and background (PDF).
Arumo: the Kingdom of Wilted Flowers by Kyle Marquis: Keywords: genre traditional scifi fantasy rules-lite preview wotc-d20; Preview of a fantasy RPG set in a world of organic technology. The current edition uses the WotC "D20" system, with additions specific to the world. ~10 pages HTML rules plus ~18 pages background.
a|state-lite by Malcolm Craig: Keywords: genre scifi fantasy long preview; A dark science fantasy RPG set in a place known only as "The City", the preview version of a print RPG to be published in 2003. It has advanced technology but also is plagued by the remnants of a magical cataclysm known as "The Shift". It uses a percentile skill-based system (roll under stat/skill on 1d100). Character creation is limited point-based (attribute points and skill points), with various origins and occupations offering suggested skills. There are no ads/disads. 62 pages (PDF).
Athala by Tristan Collet: Keywords: genre fantasy traditional long; A free generic fantasy RPG in English and French. It uses a skill-based system, where action resolution uses 1d20 + skill bonus - penalty, and 20 or more succeeds. Character creation is class-based with random-roll attributes and limited point-buy. 31 page character book, plus 14 page rule book, plus 21 page magic book (PDF).
Ballad Fantasy by Dialog Publishing and James Flowers: Keywords: genre traditional fantasy long world; "Ballad of a Greater Earth" Fantasy RPG, nominally set on a world similar to our own which in the future suffers an apocalyptic collapse to an early Renaissance level. It does not describe the world per se, but covers sorcery, miracles, and various traditional fantasy monsters. Resolution is by rolling a number of d6's based on difficulty: Easy(2d6) to Very Hard (5d6). Character creation is limited point-bought attributes and skills. 58 pages PDF.
Barbar by Tomas HV Mørkrid: Keywords: genre fantasy rules-lite; A Norwegian-language fantasy RPG with a humorous twist. It uses a simple system and limited setting. It is intended to be played with focus on the effective intelligence and limited vocabulary of each character. No feat is simple when your barbarian self can only ever say things like: "Me friend", and all your barbarian friend ever understand of such a sentence is: "Me"! ~6 pages HTML.
Barbarians of Lemuria by Simon Washbourne: Keywords: genre fantasy rules-lite; A swords-and-sorcery fantasy RPG in the style of the Thongor books (by Lin Carter) and Brak the Barbarian (by John Jakes) -- both inspired by Robert E. Howard's Conan series. It uses a simple system with point-based character creation including free-form careers. Action resolution uses 2d6 + stat + difficulty modifier, where a total of 9 or more is a success. ~12 pages (HTML).
The Battleaxe RPG by Kenneth Douglas Woolsey: Keywords: genre fantasy traditional long; A fantasy RPG designed with kick-in-the-door gamers in mind, in a fantasy setting complete with familiar fantasy races. 154 pages (PDF).
Beyond the Mists by Benjamin W. Holty: Keywords: genre traditional fantasy long; A medieval fantasy system. Character creation uses a mix of limited point-bought and random-roll attributes. Skills are based on a skill cluster (Stealth, Physical Combat, Magic, Religious, Mercantile, or Scientific) with some bonus skill points. ~80 pages HTML in various pages.
Big Breasts, Small Waist by Zaratustra: Keywords: genre fantasy rules-lite; A humorous variant of Guardians of Order's "Big Eyes, Small Mouth" system of a sexual nature, intended "for mature audiences only." ~20 pages rules (HTML).
Bloody Entrails by Integrated Games Systems: Keywords: genre fantasy rules-lite; A game of Gladiatorial Combat, which includes a solo adventure, The Arena. 16 pages (MSWord, RTF, ASCII, or PostScript).
Blue Rose Fast Play by John Snead and Steve Kenson: Keywords: genre fantasy traditional preview; A preview version of a commercial romantic fantasy RPG. The rules are based on third edition D&D / "D20", with major modifications including hit-point-less damage. The full version also includes a hero point system (Conviction Points), but it is not in this preview. This includes a brief adventure and sample characters. 20 pages (PDF).
BODGERS: Basic One-Dice Gloranthan Epic Roleplaying System by Lewis Jardine: Keywords: genre fantasy rules-lite; A simple RPG set in the world of Glorantha, from Chaosium's Runequest. It uses the ODES system (One Dice Epic System), which uses d10 rather than d100 resolution. ~25 pages HTML.
Brutal v2.0 by David J. Stanley: Keywords: genre fantasy traditional rules-lite long; "A Hack-and-Slash Fantasy Horror Game". It uses a simple dice-pool system: roll a number of d6 equal to stat, and compare total with an opposed roll. Character creation is limited point-based. The basic rulebook includes a mass combat system and even an index. 26 pages basic rules, 10 pages magic rules, 84 pages monster booklets, 29 pages adventures (PDF).
Buffy D6 by Michael Lynes: Keywords: genre modern fantasy rules-lite long; An RPG set in the world of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, using an adaptation of WEG's D6 system. The rules includes all the basics for D6 gaming (using the D6 classic system), character templates, magic rules, equipment and some basic monster stats. ~40 pages (HTML).
Buggz by Hector Rene' Segovia: Keywords: genre fantasy rules-lite; A game set in a world (Banther) inhabitted only by intelligent bugs, ranging from wasps to praying mantises. There is also magic for them to use. It has a simple system using either a d30 or d20. Character creation is based on racial templates, with random-roll attributes. 12 pages MSWord format.
Bumps in the Night by Connor Skates: Keywords: genre modern fantasy rules-lite; A humorous RPG about playing small monsters ("bumps") which try to scare human children. It uses a simple system of roll under stat on 1d10, with limited point-based character creation (including buying numerous "creature features" for your monster). 21 pages rules (RTF).
Cannonballs Lord of the Rings RPG: Keywords: genre fantasy online; A freeform online play-by-post RPG, set in Tolkien's Middle Earth some time after the War of the Ring. ~5 pages social rules (HTML).
Cantr II: Keywords: genre fantasy online long; An online fantasy game in a world with a mix of technology from medieval (common) to rare modern devices, but no magic. ~25 pages rules, background, and notes (HTML).
Changeling: The Dreaming Preview: Keywords: genre modern fantasy preview; A freeware introduction to the commercial game by White Wolf, where PCs are fay creatures (elves, gnomes, trolls, etc.) secretly operating in the modern world. 25 pages (PDF).
Children of Fire by Erich Wambach: Keywords: genre modern fantasy long; An RPG where the PCs are angels, interacting with other celestials in Heaven, the children of clay (humans) on Earth, demons, and other creatures. There is extensive background on the angelic orders. Character creation is based on choosing an order and selected options. Action resolution is stat + 2d10 vs difficulty. It includes a "magic" system (Celestial Forces). 57 pages rules and background (PDF) plus 38 page "Children of Clay" supplement (PDF).
Chivalry & Sorcery Essence by Colin D. Speirs, David Blewitt, and Steven Turner (Brittannia Game Designs): Keywords: genre fantasy traditional rules-lite preview; A short introduction to the commercial C&S system. It adapts concepts from the full game but with simplified rules. Action resolution is by roll under (attribute plus skill minus difficulty) on 1d20. Character creation is random-roll attributes, picking a social class and vocation. 4 pages rules (PDF).
Cinis by Weisman Stewart Burt: Keywords: genre fantasy traditional long world; A fantasy genre RPG set on the an original fantasy world ("Tigmar"), with background on the regions and races. There are twisted subhumans, high humans, halflings, goblins, frog-people, bird-people, and lizard-people -- but no dwarves or elves. Action resolution is by 3d12 + attribute + skill vs Difficulty. Character creation is random-roll attributes, and point-bought skills using an occupation and lifepath. 340 pages rules and background (PDF).
Circe by Bryce Harrington: Keywords: genre traditional fantasy long open-license; A medieval fantasy system, with some parts designed with computer aids in mind (although it is not required). Released under the GNU Free Documentation License. Character creation is a mix of random-roll attributes and point-bought skills and extras. 143 pages core rules (PDF or MSWord).
Claymore and Claymore Light by Rodney E. Barnes: Keywords: genre fantasy long; A fantasy Christian RPG set in the 41st century, with bible quotes scattered in (similar to Dragonraid). 1000 years after a apocalypse, mutations and natural disasters have developed a weird feudal city/state world governmental system. Varying mechanics. Random-roll character creation. Light rules ~55 pages (HTML, RTF, or MSWord). Full rules ~113 pages (HTML).
Cleaver House: Keywords: fantasy rules-lite; A fantasy RPG currently under development, with previews of the system overview, world, and skills available. Action resolution is attribute + skill + 1d20 vs difficulty. ~30 pages (PDF).
Contes De Fées by Antoine Drouart, Thomas Laborey, and Thomas Lampert: Keywords: genre fantasy rules-lite long; A French-language fairy-tale role-playing game. It is set in the wonderland of Feerie, where PCs can be adaptations of faery creatures or original creations. Actions are resolved by stat + 1d10 - 1d10 vs difficulty, or an alternative diceless system based on directly comparing stat and difficulty. Character creation is point-based, allowing an open-ended range of creatures. It also includes several ready-to-play adventures. ~220 pages (HTML, PDF).
Court of the Empress by Neel Krishnaswami: Keywords: genre fantasy rules-lite; A short scenario game focused on reading social cues and improvisation acting, where the characters are petitioning the empress who holds the power of life and death over them. ~6 pages rules (HTML).
The Creative Conclave RPG: Keywords: genre fantasy long world; A fantasy world setting for use with any system with a Chinese flavor. The GM section includes maps, place and culture descriptions, religions, and so forth. ~50 pages HTML background (scattered in different pages) plus discussion forum and information on two campaigns.
Crestfallen: A Bronze Age Role-Playing Game by Dan Hiscutt: Keywords: genre fantasy long; Bronze age fantasy role-playing, with a strong Celtic flavour. It includes detailed background on a world, Kerun, including mythology and history. There are five races, including humans, the tree-like Arcadians, wolf-like Lupus, giant Cyclops, and four-armed Naderites. The system uses stat+1d8-1d8 vs difficulty for resolution. Character creation is limited point-bought attributes and skills. 164 pages PDF and HTML.
Crux, Crossroads in Reality by: Keywords: genre modern fantasy rules-lite; A modern fantasy RPG, currently in development. The PCs are humans awakened to a realm of myth known as the "Plasm". They are capable of working magic ("feits") and mediating with magical creatures (the Inchoa, the Quem, and the Un). ~20 pages rules (text-only).
CyberFUDGE by David Jaquith: Keywords: genre postapocalyptic scifi fantasy long; A cyberpunk/fantasy mix, set in a near-future where magic returned to Earth, resulting in a world war. The war was ended by an army of cyber- and magic-enhanced super-soldiers created by the U.S., Australia, and England. It uses a variant of the Fudge system. 51 pages (PDF).
Cyno's Roleplay by Chieh Cheng: Keywords: universal genre fantasy modern scifi long; A universal system. Character creation is random-roll attributes and point-bought percentile skills. It includes four genre books: (fantasy, modern, near-future). ~33 pages core rules, plus four ~10-15 page genre books (HTML).
D20 System Reference Document, v3.5: Keywords: genre fantasy long open-license; The basic mechanics for the popular commercial game, Dungeons & Dragons, 3.5th edition, from Wizards of the Coast. The SRD is not a full game as presented, but contains most rules necessary for play as well as stats (but not descriptions) on a host of monsters, items, and more. 200+ pages rules and stats (RTF)
Dagenthir by Thomas Schulze: Keywords: genre fantasy traditional long world; A German-language fantasy RPG set on an original world ("Dagenthir"). ~50 pages rules and background (HTML).
Danse Macabre by Dean Suter and Christopher Johnstone: Keywords: genre fantasy horror long; A medieval horror RPG, set in an alternate Europe in the year 1189 struck by the Black Plague as the crusades failed before Saladin. It uses a dice pool system, where resolution is by rolling d6s equal to trait, where each 6 is a success. Spending effort points can allow successes on 5-6 (for one point) or 4-6 (for two points). Character creation is by picking society (noble, freedman, outsider, or serf); picking 1-3 Virtues and/or Sins; picking five backgrounds; and spending 12 skill points. 141 pages core rules (PDF), plus four supplements totalling 50 pages (PDF).
Dark Ages by Jonathan Clarke: Keywords: genre fantasy; A historical RPG set in 6th Century Britain, though some features are mildly anachronistic, such as Saxon characters worshipping certain the Norse Gods who are not due to be invented for several hundred years. Action resolution uses roll under trait but over difficulty on 1d12. Character creation is limited point-bought with various restrictions. 45 pages (MSWord format).
Dark Ages 2 by Michael Hoopmann: Keywords: genre traditional fantasy online; A freeware computer role-playing game for DOS and Windows.
Dark Dungeon, 2nd Edition by Jaap de Goede: Keywords: genre traditional fantasy rules-lite preview; A fantasy genre game, the "Freeware Lite" version of a not-yet-published commercial game. Action resolution is skill + 1d10 vs difficulty. Character creation is open point-bought. The lite rules are generic fantasy, but there is a shared world ("Yaddrin") under development. 25 pages rules (PDF).
Dark Fantasy by Tim Barrett with Peter Simcic and Rowan Dunch: Keywords: genre fantasy long; Set in a parallel Dark Ages Europe (800-1200 A.D.) with fantasy elements, this uses a percentile skill system, with vaguely class-like personality types. 80 pages PDF, plus 50 page Magic system and 30 page Campaign book.
Darklands by Eric Mau: Keywords: genre fantasy horror scifi long; A futuristic fantasy-horror game, set in 2066 in a grim cyberpunk future where PC's are the "Warbreed" -- creatures created by the dark gods (the "Ashura") and left on Earth in ancient times, who now fight for the Earth against their creators. Character creation is breed and class based, with point-bought attributes. The resolution system is not clear. ~45 pages MSWord format.
Darkness by A. Glare: Keywords: genre scifi fantasy long world; A post-magical-apocalypse RPG set in the year 4469 after a great Fall. The world is is replete with feudal kingdoms, magic, demons, elves, dwarves, gnomes, and halfings -- along with advanced technology in underground cities which survive against the poisoned world. The system is roll under attribute + skill on 1d20, with the roll indicating level-of-success. Character creation is open point-based. ~80 pages rules (HTML).
Dark Spell by Jeffrey S. Schecter: Keywords: genre fantasy rules-lite; A generic fantasy RPG system with rules for combat and magic. It uses a dice-pool system, rolling d6s equal to attribute ("Battle" or "Forte") vs difficulty. Character creation is open point-based, buying attributes, binary skills, combat styles, and spells. 23 pages rules (PDF).
Decima Legio by Andrea Ungaro: Keywords: genre modern fantasy rules-lite; A game of modern-day paranormal investigation set in Italy. The system includes spending "story points" and guessing "Zener cards" (where how many points you spend influences how many guesses you get). PCs also have favored or unfavored aspects such as action, investigation, etc. There are rarely- used dice checks for the most significant actions, and mechanics for firearm injuries and mental shock. 20 pages rules (PDF).
The Deeper Dream by Frank T. Sronce: Keywords: genre fantasy rules-lite; An early attempt at writing a homebrew RPG, set in the dreamworld. PC's can be mortal dreamers, dreams, or dreamlords (a sort of dream that controls other dreams). ~12 pages HTML.
Demonwright by Andre Schönherr: Keywords: genre fantasy traditional long; A German free fantasy RPG. It has random-roll attributes and character classes. 99 pages rules (PDF).
The Desert Realm Play-by-Post: Keywords: genre fantasy traditional rules-lite online; A free play-by-post forum-based RPG. The site also features a scifi/fantasy search engine, link list, and newsletter. ~10 pages rules and background (HTML).
Destiniem by xero1@aol.com: Keywords: genre scifi fantasy; A magi-tech game set in a fantasy world with cyberwizards and majinauts. Available for playtestng by email request only (??).
Divus Ex: by J.C. Connors: Keywords: genre fantasy rules-lite long; "The Roleplaying Game of Gods and Goddesses". The system is mostly diceless, using tarot cards that correspond to different divine powers in the setting. 58 pages rules and background material (PDF).
Divine Right by Zak Arntson: Keywords: genre modern fantasy rules-lite; A storytelling mini-RPG, where players spend "Dilemma Points" and makes sacrifice rolls as part of the thematic premise, "What would you sacrifice to save another?" ~6 pages rules (HTML).
Dominion by Scott Gray and Sharon Tripp: Keywords: fantasy traditional long open-license; A fantasy genre boffer LARP (live action role playing game), including a low fantasy setting ("Uruk"), analogous to the Middle East. With only humans and rare magic. ~90 pages (HTML).
Dominion Rules 2.0 by Dominion Games: Keywords: genre traditional fantasy long; A generic fantasy-genre set of rules, with a sample kingdom ("Gwenil"). It uses a skill-based system: roll 1d12 under skill or attribute. Character creation is via a random-roll number of attribute points, a random advantage table, and fixed skill points. There are generic systems for priestcraft and for witchcraft. 90 pages core rules (PDF), plus 20 page weapons/armor supplement (PDF), plus 92 page spellbook (PDF).
Doom: The Next Chapter by Richard D. Clark: Keywords: genre scifi fantasy long; An RPG set in the world of the computer game "Doom", where futuristic portal research opens a gateway to hell. It uses a simple percentile system (roll under stat on d100). Character creation is by random-roll attributes, and each skill has a starting value by averaging 2 attributes. 136 pages PDF or text.
Dragonlands Online: Keywords: genre traditional fantasy online; An online fantasy RPG. ~15 pages narrative rules (text-only).
Dragonfly by Jeffrey S. Schecter: Keywords: genre fantasy long; Described as a cross between "Pokemon" and "Starship Troopers", this is about humans -- Hunters, Riders, Entomologists, and others -- on the planet Arthra who interact with the giant bugs there. There are six attributes (rated 6 to 14 or more) and binary skills. Character creation is based on class and point-bought enhancements. Action resolution is based on roll under stat using a number of d6s based on difficulty (2d6 for easy; 5d6 for incredibly difficult). 24 pages core rules (PDF).
DragonNet (v3.0 beta 8): Keywords: genre traditional fantasy long; A generic fantasy RPG designed by committee over the internet. 99 pages (PDF).
Dragonspawn by Jeffrey R. Naujok: Keywords: genre traditional fantasy long; A skill-based fantasy system, but without a generic skill roll: each skill is treated individually. 123 pages (MSWord, HTML, or PDF).
Dragonspires: Keywords: genre fantasy traditional online; A free online fantasy graphical chat and roleplaying game.
DragonWizards: Keywords: rules-lite fantasy traditional preview; This is the preview version of a fantasy role-playing/card game with a deck of 52 multi-leveled cards. The complete rules are available free, with monster packs and upgraded images available for charge. ~40 pages rules (MSWord format) with cards.
Dreamknights, 24-hour edition: Keywords: genre fantasy horror rules-lite preview; A fantasy-horror role-playing game, the first draft of a planned commercial game. It is set in the modern world with PCs who can psychically enter the "Dreamscape". Character creation is random-roll attributes and point-bought skills for real-world attributes, and point-bought dreamscape stats -- where your total points is inversely proportional to your real-world stat total (people weak in the real world have stronger dream selves to compensate). There are four attributes (Appeal, Mind, Action, and Body) and four corresponding classes of dreamscape self (Chargemaster, Dreamshaper, Dreamwarrior, and Gadgeteer). Action resolution is attribute + skill + 1d10 vs difficulty. 20 pages RTF.
Dreamwalker: Musings by Peter C. Spahn, David Griffin, and Michael Patton: Keywords: genre fantasy rules-lite preview; A free version of the published Dreamwalker RPG (a 33 page free version vs the 152 page full version). You play a psychic in the employ of a government project, entering the dreams of others to rid troubled minds of the Taeniid infestation. It uses a percentile skill-based system. The free sample includes basic rules, a sample adventure and sample characters, but no character generation rules. 33 pages (MSWord).
DwarvenWorld by Marco Dell'Acqua and Leorando Malcovati: Keywords: genre fantasy traditional supplement world; A medieval fantasy setting on a planet of higher density than Earth, with various human and dwarven kingdoms. ~27 pages HTML.
Dying Earth Quickstart Rules by Robin D. Laws, John M. Snead, and Aaron Allston: Keywords: genre fantasy rules-lite preview; A short introductory version of the newly published fantasy RPG based on the novels by Jack Vance. Character creation is free point-based. Resolution is by simple 1d6 (1=worst to 6=best), where you get a number of re-rolls based on your "ability pool" (which refreshes every 2 to 8 hours). 32 pages PDF.
Earthdawn Preview by Greg Gorden and Louis J. Prosperi: Keywords: genre fantasy rules-lite preview; A short introductory version of the out-of-print system. ~12 pages HTML rules plus sample characters and adventure.
Earth of the Fourth Sun by Tom Slaughter: Keywords: genre traditional fantasy long; A fantasy genre game with a skill-based system and a unique magic system. 180 pages (PDF format).
Eiridia by Ben Overmyer: Keywords: genre traditional fantasy rules-lite; A fantasy-genre RPG system. It includes three classes and two races (humans and Changed Ones) but no background. The system is percentile skill-based. ~20 pages HTML.
Enchanted Tales by Tim Bisaillon: Keywords: genre fantasy rules-lite; A modern-day fantasy mini-RPG inspired by urban fantasy fiction and fairy tales. It is set in the modern world where there are fairies, elves, trolls or treefolk -- which most of humanity has been programmed not to see. The PCs have just been awakened to the world that is just beyond our belief. Resolution is by rolling 5d6 and interpretting the results like poker hands. 7 pages rules (PDF).
Enchanted Worlds Starter Kit by Matthew J. Rodgers and Daniel Price: Keywords: genre traditional fantasy rules-lite preview; The preview version of a published small-press RPG. This is a introductory fantasy version of the universal rules, and includes a short magic system and bestiary. Resolution is by rolling under attribute+skill on 2d8. Character creation is limited point-bought. 21 pages PDF.
Enoch: Role-playing in the Second Genesis by Chad Walker: Keywords: genre postapocalyptic fantasy long; A post-apocalyptic fantasy RPG, where the PCs are rebels fighting against an oppressive natural order including immortals from before the Fall, demons, and more. Resolution is roll under the sum of two attributes on 1d20. There are eight attributes ("spheres") rated 1 to 10: Combat, Medicine, Cunning, Presence, Lore, Conviction, Technology and Survival. Character creation is limited point-based. There are also mundane and supernatural advantages ("charms" and "talents"). 66 pages rules and background (PDF).
EPIC: Keywords: genre traditional fantasy; A generic fantasy system, using classes and levels with a percentile skill system. ~29 pages HTML.
Epoch: Age of Magic (Demo) by Chris Rutkowsky: Keywords: genre fantasy long preview; The free demo version of a published RPG. Epoch is a fantasy RPG using a percentile skill-based system. Character creation is random-roll race, social class, and attributes -- plus skill points which also be used to modify rolls. ~37 pages MSWord format.
Epos by Dennis Engelhard: Keywords: genre fantasy traditional; A German-language free RPG, set in an "ancientpunk" setting that mixes different ancient cultures. Character creation uses priority picks, where predetermined numbers are assigned to stats (attributes, skills and feats). There are also backgrounds (i.e. status, armies, pets, artifacts) and non-adventuring knacks (i.e. linguist or musician). Resolution is by an open-ended d12 dice pool system, rolling attribute + skill dice, where each die equal or less than the character's current health score (from 0 to 9) is one success. The system also includes "epic" points for rerolls, refreshed by fulfilling character motivations. The core rules also include a magic system and rules for organizations. 67 page hero book, 32 page myth and magic book, 11 page arsenal book.
Erebus by Daniel Pond: Keywords: genre fantasy world; A fantasy setting with an odd Victorian flavor and a twist of 1930's pulp. It uses the Blur system. ~20 pages background (HTML).
E-RPG by Ruel K. Knudson: Keywords: genre fantasy long preview; The core rules of a generic fantasy RPG, offered for free in preview of the general E-RPG system. Action resolution is a step die, skill-based system. Character creation is either random-roll or limited point-bought attributes, and limited point-bought skills. 173 pages fantasy player's guide, plus 64 pages GM's book.
Evolution: The First Step: Keywords: genre fantasy rules-lite; Not really an RPG, this is "a game of logistics and imagination". Players play gods who each have domination over their own Eden of 50 neophyte humans. It is played in turns of a generation (approx 32 years). 7 pages rules (RTF).
Faelands by Chris Fox: Keywords: genre fantasy traditional long world; A fantasy genre game currently (Nov 2002) in beta testing. It is set on an original fantasy world ("Ardgan") where within the past generation a number of people have begun to be born with great magical powers, known as the Chosen of the Fae. Character creation is limited point-based, with powers for the type ("aspect") of Chosen. ~72 pages MSWord.
The Fallen Barony: Live-Action Roleplaying Game: Keywords: genre fantasy rules-lite live-action; A live-action rules set, designed for play with "boffer" weaponry combined with other rules for character creation, skills, etc. ~15 pages rules (HTML).
FANGS: The Fantasy Adventure Networked Gaming System by Christopher Allen: Keywords: genre fantasy traditional long rules-lite; A generic medieval fantasy system. It uses a skill-based system where resolution is by skill plus modifiers, where any result of 20 or more is a success. Character creation is open point-based. ~50 pages core rules (HTML).
Fantasia by Tybalt: Keywords: genre fantasy long; A French-language fantasy/steampunk setting. 195 pages rules and background (MSWord format) plus 101 page bestiary (MSWord format).
Fantasia Quickstart by Matthew deMille (New Dimension Games): Keywords: genre fantasy traditional long preview; The preview version of a commercial fantasy RPG. Action resolution is stat + 1d6 vs difficulty for ability checks, or 1d20 + modifiers for combat. Character creation is random-roll attributes, choice of class, and point-bought skills (d12 skill points). Advancement is level-based. The preview version includes a limited magic system and selection of monsters. 52 pages preview rules (PDF).
Fantasized Adventures by W. Ty Dobson and Great River Games: Keywords: genre traditional fantasy long world; A system for the fantasy world of Bakara. Each race has detailed character creation rules. Skills are generally percentile, but with d20 combat resolution and adjustments from attributes based on tables. ~290 pages HTML.
Fargoth World Building Project: Keywords: genre traditional fantasy long supplement world; A collaborative project building a traditional fantasy world. It includes individual descriptions of kingdoms, races, monsters, flora, fauna, and gods. ~70 pages descriptions (HTML).
F.A.T.A.L. by Fatal Games: Keywords: traditional fantasy long; "Fantasy Adventure To Adult Lechery". A highly detailed fantasy system. It has 5 core attributes with 20 sub-attributes. Tables for each sub-attribute detail everything from Enunciation to Bust Size. Action resolution uses skill plus d100 vs difficulty. Character creation is random-roll attributes. ~500 pages rules (PDF).
FFRPS: Free Fantasy Role Playing System by Ray Rischpater: Keywords: genre traditional fantasy long; An under-construction fantasy genre system based on AD&D, designed with computer aids in mind. ~40 pages HTML, with some sections missing.
The Forge Primer by Basement Games: Keywords: fantasy traditional rules-lite preview; This is a short preview version of the commercial game Forge: Out of Chaos. 11 pages (PDF).
Forgotten Futures by Marcus L. Rowland: Keywords: genre scifi fantasy long world; Not technically free, but a great shareware RPG based on turn-of-the-century science fiction (Rudyard Kipling, Arthur Conan Doyle, et al.). ~500+ pages rules and background in six collections (HTML).
Free Fantasy: gioco di ruolo by Antonio Sottocasa: Keywords: genre fantasy traditional rules-lite; An Italian-language free fantasy RPG. It includes a brief magic system and bestiary. 32 pages (PDF).
Fudge: Buffy the Vampire Slayer by Michael S. Gentry: Keywords: genre modern fantasy rules-lite; An adaptation of the television series to Fudge. It includes monster research and magic rules, along with special rules for Gloom. ~25 pages (HTML).
Furcadia by Dragon's Eye Inc.: Keywords: genre fantasy online; A free online RPG set in a magical world of anthropomorphic animals. There is a world including 3D animated graphics, but no combat is permitted.
FuRPiG / World of Esaene by Brant Guillory: Keywords: genre traditional fantasy long; Formerly a free fantasy-genre RPG system, this is now a published but low-cost RPG from BaDGe Publications.
Fuzzy Knights Lite by Noah J.D. Chinn: Keywords: genre fantasy rules-lite preview; The preview version of a humorous fantasy RPG about animated stuffed animals. It uses a simple system with three attributes (Strength, Reflex, Intelligence) and freeform skills. Action resolution uses roll under attribute + skill + modifiers on 1d20. PCs have Story Points (combined hero points and experience), and the GM has corresponding Irony Points. 13 pages core rules (PDF).
Gehennum by Brett Evill: Keywords: genre fantasy long supplement world; A non-traditional fantasy setting for use with any rule system. Gehennum is a volcanic and mountainous archipelago ringed with coral and clad in jungle. It is closer to south-east Asia rather than medieval Europe in nature and culture. ~40 pages HTML.
Gebaur by Laura Brickman et al.: Keywords: genre traditional fantasy online; A freeform online RPG played by posting to various boards corresponding to locations in and around the city of Gebaur. ~4 pages guidelines for posting (HTML).
Ghalerion: Keywords: genre fantasy online; An online freeform fantasy RPG, set in an original fantasy world of the same name, where an immortal race called the Kellans had oppressed mortals but were overthrown in a great war. It is set 217 years after a new god took over from the fall of the Kellans. ~20 pages posting guidelines and background (HTML).
Ghostlight by W Doug Bolden: Keywords: genre fantasy rules-lite; An RPG set in a strange world where ghosts interact only with each other through emotions and stimuli, using a minimalist system. ~7 pages HTML.
Gods & Monsters by Jerry Stratton: Keywords: genre fantasy traditional long open-license; A fantasy RPG compatible with TSR's AD&D (1st or 2nd edition), released under the GNU Free Documentation license. The system is similar but with many changes and simplifications. 100 pages basic rules (PDF, RTF, or HTML).
Godhome by gorbadorc@aol.com: Keywords: genre fantasy rules-lite; A fantasy RPG where you play minor gods in a large pantheon. It uses a simple percentile system, with other dice for damage, etc. ~12 pages HTML rules.
Gothicon: Keywords: genre fantasy rules-lite; A fantasy-genre RPG system. Character creation is class-based with random-roll attributes. ~25 pages MSWord format.
GPA by Mark Hughes: Keywords: genre fantasy horror modern rules-lite; A sci-fi/fantasy/horror RPG about students at George Underwood Edwards University, after the floodgates of magic and weird science are opened upon the world, where no more than half of all university students survive to graduation. ~12 pages HTML.
Great Ork Gods by Jack Aidley: Keywords: genre fantasy rules-lite; A simple RPG designed for a single evening's play. Each player plays an orc and one of seven orc gods. Individual orcs have a chance to succeed based on how much the god of that activity hates them (there is a rating from 1 to 5 for each god's hate). You roll a number of d10s for each action based on difficulty. If any of them are less than the hate value, the action fails. 12 page rules and handouts (PDF).
The Great War by Maarten Oord: Keywords: genre modern fantasy wotc-d20; A modern fantasy game set in a parallel version of World War I in a fantasy world ("Elon") complete with elves, dwarves and magic. The game presents variants of D&D3 rules (i.e. D20 System) for the setting. ~20 pages (HTML).
Grey Lotus by Andrew Williams: Keywords: genre fantasy long world open-license; A fantasy RPG released under the Open Publication License. It is set on the fantasy world of Gaia, which is inhabited by humans, faerie races, and alien races. It uses a skill-based system. Action resolution is to roll d10's equal to skill and take the highest + attribute versus difficulty. Character creation is semi-open point-based, assigning 7 priority points among four categories, then spending points within each category. 110 pages core rules (PDF,HTML,LaTeX) plus 23 page magic supplement (PDF,HTML).
The Guide to Adventure Page by Michael E. Ball: Keywords: genre traditional fantasy long; A fantasy system, set in an AD&D-like world, using a skill-based system. It also has a modern and sci-fi supplement, Alien Dawn, although less developed. Character creation is point-bought, but the available points are generated randomly. The combat system focuses on realistic fights and uses cards to determine the sequence of action. 86 page players handbook and 61 page GMs handbook (RTF, PostScript, WordPerfect, and text-only formats).
Hannsu by Paul Mather: Keywords: genre fantasy traditional online world; A freeform online web-based fantasy RPG, set on an original world: Hannsu. It has brief character creation rules but online resolution is freeform, with moderator options. ~20 pages background and rules (HTML).
Harp Lite: Keywords: genre fantasy traditional preview; The preview version of the HARP (High Adventure Role Playing) system from Iron Crown Enterprises. This is a generic fantasy game. It includes simplified character creation rules, with four classes: one Cleric type, Fighter, Mage, and Rogue. Action resolution is stat plus a percentile roll to determine level of success (with anything over 100 being success). 98 pages (PDF).
Hazon by Mike Jacobs: Keywords: genre traditional fantasy long; A fantasy game in a D&D-like setting, using a percentile system. ~30 pages (text-only).
Heroes of Mars by Jeffrey A. Kazmierski: Keywords: genre fantasy scifi rules-lite long; An adaptation of Edgar Rice Burroughs' Barsoom setting to the Fudge system. Includes links for rules additions for combat, wealth, and fencing as well as character creation guidelines. ~50 pages (HTML).
Heroic Golden Turbulence by Scott Beattie: Keywords: genre fantasy long; A wild fantasy martial-arts RPG. The system uses a dice pool of color-coded d6's. Successes are rolls of 6, 6 or 4, or 6 or 4 or 2 (depending on your specialty). The combat and crisis system revolves around choosing the colours of dice in your pool to represent your priorities (i.e. finesse, caution, power, etc.), which lessens the need for modifiers. ~55 page HTML.
Hexalon House Rules RPG by Paul W. Will: Keywords: genre fantasy rules-lite long; A Fudge-based fantasy RPG, set in a collection of 6 fantasy worlds which share a common fate. The system is a variant on the core Fudge rules. 84 pages core rules (PDF and HTML), 101 pages additional rules (PDF), plus ~20 page background (HTML).
Holyquest by James W. Aubuchon: Keywords: genre fantasy rules-lite; A fantasy RPG from a Judeo-Christian perspective, using a variant of the Fudge rules. ~25 pages HTML.
How To Host A Dungeon by Tony Dowler: Keywords: genre fantasy; A solo game for developing dungeons, working through the history of the dungeon over four ages (Primordial Age, Age of Civilization, Age of Monsters, and Age of Villains). 19 pages (PDF).
The Human Interface for Fantasy Roleplaying by John F Sasso: Keywords: genre fantasy traditional long; A generic fantasy system. Character creation is random-roll attributes and template-based skills, though skills are point-bought with experience. Action resolution is a d6 dice-pool with a number of successes equal to the number of 6's rolled. 47 pages basic rules (PDF or HTML) plus 29 pages magic rules (PDF).
Illusion Walker by Atushi Terada: Keywords: genre traditional fantasy online; A Japanese Internet-browser + "Shockwave 7" game. It described as a "simple dungeon game", where the goal to kill a monster one after another. (untested - I can't read it!)
Imp by syn: Keywords: fantasy genre rules-lite; A simple fantasy RPG where the PC's are imps: malign faeries wandering medieval Britain. It uses a simple random-roll character generation with stats of experience (X), malevolence (mal), and a number of powers (aka hexes). It uses a simple dice pool system, rolling d6s equal to X. mal can be spent for various bonuses, and is gained by practicing the seven deadly sins. ~10 pages rules and scenario ideas (HTML).
Imperial Magician by Marc Uhl: Keywords: genre fantasy long supplement; A French-language RPG system -- ostensibly "a medieval fantasy role playing game from a subjective view designed for micro information processing." ~80 pages HTML.
Inju for Storyteller by Ed Hrzic: Keywords: genre fantasy supplement; An adaptation of White Wolf's Storyteller system for "Inju" -- various monsters from the Japanese for "demon-beast". 15 pages rules (text-only).
Inquisitor by Dialog Publishing with James Flowers and Paul Tobin: Keywords: genre traditional fantasy long world; A medieval fantasy RPG set in an alternate world ("Nuevo Espana") where refugees from Earth are oppressed by an evil regime derived from the Spanish Inquisition. There are also fey races mixed in: alien milanesians and fomorians (from Irish myth). It uses a percentile skill-based system. Character creation is random-roll attributes with "archetype" packages of skills with various choices. 31 pages PDF rules plus 41 pages PDF background.
Interfable: Keywords: genre fantasy online; An interactive online storytelling/role-playing site designed and run by Mark Keavney, using web-based forums and chat rooms. The current (March 2003) story is "The Wheel", an epic tale set in a world of ancient Greek gods and goddesses and populated by twelve races.
Inzeladun: Keywords: genre fantasy traditional long world; A detailed fantasy world, intended for use with D&D third edition. It includes the standard races plus Winged Folk along with variant rules and extensive background. ~100 pages HTML.
Irea Ensis: Keywords: genre traditional fantasy; A Swedish fantasy RPG set in a fantastic world inspired by Moorcock's writings. No comments.
ISIS RPG System by Dale Cunningham: Keywords: genre fantasy traditional rules-lite world; A fantasy RPG with rules based on the D6 system from West End Games. Action resolution uses total of an Nd6 dice pool vs difficulty. Character creation is limited point-based (18d of attributes, up to 6d of ads/disads, 12d of skills). The core rules include standard fantasy races (elf, dwarf). It also has a fantasy world background with 17 original races. 19 pages rules (MSWord, PDF) plus 17 pages background (MSWord, PDF).
It's a Dog's Life by Simon Washbourne: Keywords: genre fantasy rules-lite; An RPG about intelligent prairie dogs on the American Great Plains, who go on adventures such as the search for the semi-mythical city of ThunderTown. Action resolution is roll under attribute + skill + difficulty modifier on 2d6. Character creation is random-roll attributes and point-bought skills: distributing 6 points among the skills of your position (Brave, Healer, Scout, Sentinel, or Speaker). ~10 pages HTML.
JAGS by Marco Chacon: Keywords: genre universal scifi fantasy superhero long; A universal skill-based system with many genre supplements: Magic, Cyberpunk, Fantasy, Horror, Supers, Psionics, Chi Martial Arts, and Steampunk. It is quite detailed, but there is a "rules-medium" version: JAGS-2. Action resolution is roll under attribute or skill on 4d6-4. Character creation is open point-based, with 3 primary attributes and 9 secondary. Skills have a 4-level expertise rating (Beginner, Average, Expert, Master) which determines usage as well as a number to roll under (0 to 20). 200 pages basic rules (PDF) plus 150+ pages of supplements (PDF).
The World of JERA! by Steve Myers: Keywords: genre fantasy traditional long world supplement; A fantasy world in a "magi-punk" steam age, designed for the AD&D system but including some of its own rules. ~100 pages background (HTML).
Kaïm le Temps des Dieux by Calmes Christophe: Keywords: genre fantasy rules-lite; A French-language fantasy RPG, inspired by the published game Nephilim. ~30 pages (HTML).
Kalyr by Tim Hall: Keywords: genre fantasy long world; A fantasy setting for use with GURPS and Fudge. It is a world where the ancient race of Kandar (a sophisticated humanoid race) dominate, with humans as their slaves and serfs. ~75 pages (HTML).
Kathanaksaya by Shawn C. Harris (aka "Green"): Keywords: universal genre fantasy rules-lite; A diceless RPG set in a world ("Kathanaksaya") where all dreams, fables, and myths are true. Character creation is by collecting Story Points for description and hooks, then spending them on freeform abilities (Specialties). Actions are resolved by players bidding Story Points, where highest Specialty + Story Points wins the bid and determines how that action is resolved. ~25 pages (HTML).
Khoras by David M. Roomes: Keywords: genre traditional fantasy long supplement world; A very detailed fantasy world with non-system-specific notes. It is intended to be realistic with fantasy additions. There are traditional dwarves and elves along with Avarians, Saurians, and other races. It details 35 nations and 26 cities along with races, fauna, flora, and other information. ~250 pages HTML.
Kids Easy Play Fantasy RPG by Steven Ruske: Keywords: genre traditional fantasy rules-lite open-license; A brief RPG based on the D20 System rules, but greatly simplified for play by younger kids. 32 pages rules (PDF).
kill puppies for satan by Vincent Baker: Keywords: genre fantasy rules-lite; A formerly-shareware-but-now-commercial RPG where the PCs try to gain evil by working for Satan. There are four attributes: "cold", "fucked up", "mean", and "relentless" -- plus a general "evil" rating. 32 pages (PDF).
The Kingdom of Glenn RPG by Nathan Hill: Keywords: genre fantasy traditional rules-lite; A fantasy mini-RPG using the "Cinema 2-10" system. Resolution is by attribute + skill + 2d10 (count "0" as zeroes) vs difficulty. Character creation is limited point-based. 32 pages (PDF).
Kingdoms of Telgard by Michelle McIntyre: Keywords: genre fantasy traditional online; A play-by-post fantasy/adventure roleplaying site. There are mechanical attributes and skills, but there are no combat mechanics or random throws. Stats are used by the moderators to help judge situations. It includes a limited point-based character creation method, race descriptions, and some world background. ~40 pages HTML rules.
The King of Spades: Keywords: genre superhero fantasy online; A free online Massively Multiplayer RPG where you can create a superhero or supervillain and go through 22 Levels of Ascention to see if you're worthy of wielding one of the great 12 Tokens that will make you a King, Queen, Prince or Knight of the kingdoms of Spades (Deva), Hearts (Atlantis), Clubs (Hades), or Diamonds (Earth).
Knarf 2 by Edward Frank: Keywords: genre fantasy traditional long; A simple generic fantasy system, with support for common tropes including a magic system and 20 races. Action resolution is attribute + skill + 1d20 vs difficulty. Character creation is limited point-based (12 attribute points and 20 skill points). ~50 pages rules (HTML).
Labyrinth Lord by Daniel Proctor: Keywords: genre fantasy traditional long preview; A variant of the original Dungeons & Dragons game, mimicking the original basic game circa 1980 based on the third edition rules released under the Wizards of the Coast Open Gaming License. The book is also available in print. 138 pages rules (PDF).
Lace & Steel Preview by Paul Kidd: Keywords: genre fantasy preview; An HTML conversion of the commercial game rules, available for downloading on the web. It is a swashbuckling fantasy game, set in a fantasy world with centaurs and such but with an approximation of the culture of 17th century France a la "The Three Musketeers". It includes only character creation rules, however. ~25 pages HTML.
Lacuna by Jared A. Sorensen (Memento Mori Theatricks): Keywords: genre fantasy modern rules-lite; A modern game about mystery men who project their minds into a place (the "Blue City") in a telepathic dreaming state. It uses a simple step-die system with 5 levels of traits, rolling against a target number. There are four abstract attributes and freeform strength/weakness traits. 24 pages (PDF, HTML).
Lamentations of the Flame Princess, version 0.1 by Jim Raggi: Keywords: genre fantasy preview; The preview/playtest version of an upcoming fantasy game, which includes only bare rules. Action resolution is stat + 1d6 vs difficulty + 1d6. Character creation is open point based, spending 100 or more points on attributes (5 physical, 4 mental), cheats (the hero points), exceptions, and skills. 38 pages rules (PDF).
Land of the Forbidden Treasures: Keywords: genre fantasy online; An online fairly freeform play-by-post fantasy-genre game. ~2 pages posting rules (HTML).
Lannassir: Keywords: genre fantasy long; A freeware RPG in German. No comments (I can't read it!).
Legendary Beta Version by Marty Vance (aka Dracos) of Dragon's Forge: Keywords: genre traditional fantasy long; A mechanics system for fantasy. It has point-based character creation, and percentile resolution. The magic system is developed (verb-noun based), and there are rules for race creation but there are no pre-made races yet. ~46 pages (HTML).
Legendary Lives by Joe Williams and Kathleen Williams: Keywords: genre traditional fantasy long; A simple electronic edition of the 1993 published fantasy game, put online by the author. It is set in a light-hearted Celtic-flavored world thick with faeries. The system uses a universal Action Result Table (ART) included on the character sheet. You find the row for skill (modified by difficulty) and rolling percentile dice to find degree of success/failure (5 levels each). Character creation is largely random-roll with a choice of profession, developing a random "life-path" of the character's history. 258 pages rules (HTML and PDF).
Legendary Quest by John Kirk: Keywords: genre fantasy traditional long; A fantasy genre RPG, set in a fantasy world based on European myth and folklore. PCs are dwarves, elves, gnomes, goblins, hobs, or orcs. Action resolution is attribute + 1d10 vs difficulty, skill + 1d30 vs difficulty, or limited other d30 rolls. Character creation uses classes, and is limited point-buy spending separately on attributes and skills. It includes a magic system, priestly miracles, and a host of monsters. 194 pages rules (PDF), plus 175 pages encyclopedia of monsters (PDF), and 248 pages spell book (PDF).
Legendra by David Farrell: Keywords: genre fantasy traditional online world; A play-by-post fantasy RPG set on an original world ("Legendra") inhabited by humans, centaurs, and the cat-like Mewyr along with demons, gargoyles, golems, and valian. ~2 pages rules plus ~15 pages background (HTML).
Legends of the Ancient World: Keywords: genre fantasy rules-lite preview; A simple fantasy role-playing game similar to Steve Jackson's "The Fantasy Trip". Character creation is point-based, splitting 7 points among three attributes (Strength, Dexterity, and Intelligence), and binary skills (1 point each). Action resolution is roll under stat on 3d6 (or Nd6 in some cases, with N varying with difficulty). 12 pages rules (PDF).
Legends from the Dark Wheel by Vin Diakuw: Keywords: genre fantasy world; A fantasy setting in a Dark Age which comes after the Golden Age of the Precursors. As the ice melts more and more secrets of the ancients are revealed, which can be used for ill or good. This was the setting of the Epitaph RPG. 38 page PDF (available by email).
Legends of Alyria Quickstart by Seth Ben-Ezra: Keywords: genre fantasy rules-lite preview; The preview of an upcoming storytelling fantasy game. It has broad attributes (Force, Insight, and Determination) and moral qualities rated in phases of the moon (new to full). It recommends modified d10s with phases of the moon pasted on them. It emphasizes cooperative authorship and narration. 12 pages rules (PDF) plus scenarios.
Legends of Middle Earth by Jeffrey S. Schecter: Keywords: genre fantasy rules-lite; A fantasy RPG set in Tolkien's Middle Earth. It uses a skill-based system, rolling under skill on a number of d6s (1d6 to 5d6 or more) where the number of dice depends on difficulty. Character creation is by choosing race and profession package ("role"), plus three pools of limited points for skills, special abilities, and passions. 25 pages rules and background (PDF).
Legends of the Land by Simon Washbourne: Keywords: genre fantasy rules-lite; A variant of the free Legends of Middle Earth RPG by Jeffrey Schecter, for playing in the world of The Chronicles of Thomas Covenant by Stephen R. Donaldson. 17 pages rules and background (HTML).
LILA by Lorenzo Rubbo-ferraro: Keywords: genre fantasy rules-lite world; Introductory rules for a Vedic RPG -- i.e. a fantasy game set in Hindu myth (i.e. the Mahabharata, the Bhagavad Gita, etc.). The rules are incomplete, but explained to be semi-freeform with stats representing any qualities of the character. 13 pages (PDF).
LIQUID, version 3.0 by Marcus Johanus, Markus Voht, and Jakob Schillinger (Blacknet Publishing): Keywords: genre universal fantasy long world; A German-language free universal RPG system, with sourcebooks for seven worlds: AD 2309, Endland, Freeya, Narvalon, Scoutz!, Thyria Steamfantasy, and Schattenmeister. Character creation is limited point based. Checks are made by rolling 1d10 under the sum of an attribute and a skill value, with degree of success equal to the die result of a successful roll. The basic rules include a magic system. 378 pages (PDF).
Lord of Lords: Keywords: genre traditional fantasy online; A free text-based online fantasy RPG (i.e. MUD). ~2 pages social rules (HTML).
Lord of the Rings Roleplay: Keywords: genre fantasy traditional online; An online web-based play-by-post RPG set in Tolkien's Middle Earth. ~2 pages rules (HTML).
Lords of Knowledge by Ohmnibus: Keywords: genre fantasy scifi long; An Italian science fantasy RPG, with a rules system leaning towards realism and accuracy. The game is split into four manuals: Ambient, Characters, Rules, and Magic. Rules and background 141 pages (PDF).
Lost Souls by Joe Williams and Kathleen Williams: Keywords: genre modern fantasy long; A simple electronic edition of the 1993 published horror game, put online by the author, where the PCs are ghosts trying to reincarnate, fighting evil ghosts and other creatures to improve their karma. The system is percentile-based, with degree of success indicated by a universal chart printed on the character sheet. There are five degrees of failure (from Catastrophic to Poor) and five degrees of success (from Passable to Awesome). Character creation has many random rolls, but the key selections are profession in life and lost soul type -- which may be either rolled or chosen. Creation begins with generating appearance, then profession, then how you died, and then the type of ghost you become (which determines your powers). There are 22 types of ghosts, including Bansee, Doppelganger, Haunt, Shade, and Spook. There are also 12 attributes, each of which has 4 associated skills. Ghosts have "will-to-live" points, which when you run out of you have a chance to reincarnate. Experience is via karma, which grants powers as well as improving your luck in reincarnation. 245 pages rules and background (HTML and PDF).
Lycadican by Sheldon Lee Wen, Monte Lee Wen, Ricardo Bare: Keywords: genre traditional fantasy long world open-license; A fantasy game set on the world of Khardan, released under the Open Content License. The system is a percentile skill-based with required professions. 363 pages rules (PDF) plus additional worldbook.
Lyran Tal: Keywords: genre fantasy online; An online free-form role-playing game set in an original medieval fantasy setting with many details centering on the Crosswinds Tavern which houses a gateway to other worlds. It includes both live chat and posted stories. ~50 pages background (HTML) plus play guidelines, ~5 pages (HTML).
Maelstrom Fantasy Campaign Setting by Brian K. Moseley: Keywords: genre fantasy traditional long world; A fantasy campaign setting for use with any system, with extensive maps and descriptions -- the land of Kaladia on the world of Roil. It includes geography, history, and gods but little on races, inhabitants, and culture. ~90 pages (HTML).
Magebane: The Unofficial Magic: the Gathering RPG by Grant Graves and Chris Bishop: Keywords: genre fantasy rules-lite; A fantasy RPG based on the collectible card game. The system uses the card game for some combats, and simple die rolls for others. 3 pages rules (PDF).
Magicians of England by Tony Dowler: Keywords: genre fantasy long; A Victorian fantasy narrational game about rival magicians and the honor of the British Empire. Resolution is by bidding numbers of story chips against opposed players, while story chips must also be spent for narrating in various effects like changing place, time, or characters. 12 pages rules (PDF).
The Magic Theatre: Cathay Arts of Role-playing by Leonard Hung: Keywords: genre fantasy long; An authentic Oriental RPG, using stats based on classical Chinese categories: the nine house chart, along with 5 "roots" for attributes, each with a yin and yang aspect. ~52 pages HTML.
Majai: Pale Sun, Blood Moon by Jason Lada: Keywords: genre fantasy rules-lite world; A fantasy world using the Fudge system (includes adapted rules on the site). Inspired by John Brunner's "The Compleat Traveller in Black", and Michael Moorcock's "Elric" Saga, plus the RPG "Gamma World". 7 pages rules plus 26 pages background (HTML).
ManaBurn by Wim van Gruisen: Keywords: genre fantasy rules-lite; A role-playing game that uses cards and mechanics from the collectible card game "Magic: The Gathering". A character is represented by a deck of 50 cards. It does not use the normal card mechanics. Instead, for action resolution you draw a number of cards equal to your skill from the character's deck, and each pip of the correct color is one success. ~16 pages rules (HTML).
Mazes & Minotaurs by Olivier Legrand: Keywords: genre fantasy long; A retro D&D-like RPG based on Greek sources (the 1963 "Jason & the Argonauts" movie and Homer's Odyssey) rather than Tolkien and related Western fantasy. So there are six random-roll attributes, and classes of Barbarian, Spearman, Noble, Priest, Sorcerer and Nymph. There are three supplements: "Men & Monsters" (with new classes and rules), "Myth & Magic" (with four new magical classes and new items), and "Hekatoteratos" (with 100 creatures). 74 pages core rules (PDF).
Midian: Keywords: genre fantasy long open-license; A dark fantasy genre RPG released under a home-grown open license, in a world populated by dwarves, elves, trolls, ghouls, hobgoblins, warrior gaijin, reptilian Killians, and humans. Character creation is random-roll attributes with different rolls based on race. Action resolution is based on 1d20 for combat, or 2d20 roll under stat. 212 pages (HTML/PDF).
Middle Earth FRPG by Sergio Venturini: Keywords: genre traditional fantasy; A J.R.R. Tolkien based fantasy RPG, Spanish-only. (no comments - I can't read it!)
Miravlor by Matthew West: Keywords: genre traditional fantasy long; A fantasy genre RPG. It includes a magic system, monsters, and religions but not a world. Action resolution uses roll under skill on 1d20, or 1d20 + attack stat - defense stat for combat. Character creation is based on 37 templates, with rules for modifying selected attributes according to a point system. 200 pages rules (MSWord format).
Mistrunner by Glenn "Bifster" Buettner: Keywords: genre traditional fantasy long world; A post-magical-apocalypse fantasy RPG, set on Earth a few centuries after a cataclysm in 2289 ripped the world into different realms surrounded by faerie mists. It uses a simple dice-pool system: roll d10's equal to skill, take highest and add attribute. ~40 pages rules (HTML) plus ~15 pages background (HTML).
Mithlund by Ricardo Bare: Keywords: genre traditional fantasy long world; A fantasy RPG, set on a medieval-era world with an odd assortment of natural and faery races. It uses a skill-based system, using d20. 152 pages rules and background (PDF).
Monsters and Mazes by John Garwood: Keywords: genre fantasy rules-lite; Only nominally an RPG, this is a simple dungeon-crawling engine patterned after the original D&D. ~20 pages rules (text-only).
Mordor: The Realm of Shadows: Keywords: genre fantasy traditional rules-lite online world; An online play-by-chat RPG, set in an original world -- the continent of the Shadowlands in the world of Mordor. Species include humans, sprites, dwarves, vampires (based on V:tM), and more. It uses a mostly-freeform text-based system, with player-defined special traits (including magic, powers, and healing) of level 1 to 3.
Multiclass by Peter Knutsen: Keywords: genre traditional fantasy long; A generic fantasy RPG system, where you pick three classes (out of 12), and then put points into skills (cost varying with class). Actions are resolved by rolling under skill on 3d6. ~40 pages ASCII text.
Munchkins by Michael "Epoch" Sullivan: Keywords: genre modern fantasy rules-lite; A humorous RPG about playing two-inch creatures in a modern household who worship the TV set. Adventure are various mayhem with the cat, and other household accidents. 12 pages (HTML or MSWord).
MutQuest by Todd Poindexter: Keywords: genre traditional fantasy; A fantasy RPG self-acknowledged to be a fusion of D&D, Palladium, Runequest, and Stormbringer. ~28 pages MSWord or text format.
Mysticora by Channing Jones: Keywords: genre fantasy traditional online; A play-by-email fantasy RPG with three subgames: a heroic subgame, a military subgame, and an economic subgames. It includes detailed rules and background, although there are no rules for non-online resolution. ~30 pages rules and background (HTML).
The Fantasy World of Mythosa by Bruce A. Gulke: Keywords: genre fantasy traditional long world; A detailed fantasy world, not tied to a particular system. ~60 pages background (HTML).
Mythos of the Maori by Christopher Johnstone: Keywords: genre fantasy long; An epic fantasy game set in the pre-European contact and mythic history of the Maori peoples of Aotearoa (New Zealand). 62 pages rules and background (PDF).
Mythweaver by Michael T. Desing: Keywords: genre fantasy traditional rules-lite; A generic fantasy RPG, with monster stats but no background. Action resolution is skill + 2d6 versus difficulty. Character creation is class-based, with random-roll attributes and point-bought skills. 24 pages PDF.
The Nameless RPG by Daniel Pond: Keywords: genre scifi fantasy universal rules-lite long world; A simple universal RPG system. Actions resolution is by drawing a playing card (or rolling 1d10) under attribute + skill. Modifiers are by adding bonus or penalty draws -- keepign the best/worst of the cards. Players can spend Karma points for successes. It includes three settings: a cross-genre setting (All-Worldz), a dark fantasy setting (Erebus), and a adaptation of "The Matrix". There are also two adventures. ~15 pages basic rules plus ~80 pages background (HTML).
NC by Andrew C. Myers: Keywords: genre traditional fantasy; This is a skill-based system intended to be more believable and balanced than AD&D while retaining the simplicity. ~38 pages rules (HTML).
Neverwhere, 2nd edition by Grim & Raven Morrison (Postmortem Studios): Keywords: genre scifi fantasy long; A system based on the urban fantasy novel and BBC TV series by Neil Gaiman, set in an underworld realm below modern London. It uses a minimalist system where characters are rated by 5 adjectives from their description, plus skills (with five levels: Beginner to Legend). Action resolution is 1d10 +1 for each adjective + skill vs difficulty. 76 pages rules and background (PDF).
The Nutcracker Prince by Peter Seckler and Clinton R. Nixon: Keywords: genre fantasy long supplement; A fairy-tale-like dreamland fantasy RPG, based on a speculative version of 3rd edition D&D. 53 pages PDF rules plus ~20 pages various background.
Olendiak Fantasy Roleplay by Jason Coplen, Marlene Jenkins-Haraguchi, & John Leutz: Keywords: genre traditional fantasy rules-lite; A free fantasy-genre RPG set on an original world of the same name. Action resolution is skill+2d6 vs difficulty. Character creation is random-roll (3d6) attributes and point-bought skills. It includes a 9-page magic system and 7-page set of race descriptions. ~35 pages rules HTML.
Ork: L'Ultime Outrage by Ghislain Morel: Keywords: genre fantasy long; A fantasy RPG of playing orks, in French. No comments (I can't read it).
The OSRIC Project: Keywords: genre fantasy traditional long open-license; OSRIC ('Old School Reference and Index Compilation') is an effort to make a WotC OGL version of first edition AD&D mechanics without violating copyright. 133 pages PDF.
Otherkind by Vincent Baker: Keywords: genre fantasy rules-lite; A dramatic RPG which focusses on strong differences between the four races: orc, elf, dwarf, or troll. They are faery creatures, dedicated to saving sparks of magic left in the mortal world that they are leaving. 11 pages (PDF).
Otherworld: Keywords: genre fantasy rules-lite online; An online web-based play-by-post RPG, based on the fantasy novels of Kelley Armstrong. ~10 pages posting guidelines and background (HTML).
Outlanda by Rebecca Laffar-Smith: Keywords: genre fantasy traditional online wotc-d20; A bulletin-board based online RPG, based on D&D third edition. There are no rules provided (just links for the official books), but there is various background material primarily in the monthly ezine. ~25 pages HTML.
Outlaws of the Water Margin by Paul Mason: Keywords: genre fantasy long world; A game set in Song dynasty (12th cent) China, which combines a lot of background with a simple skill-based system (somewhat incomplete). ~112 pages HTML.
Pagan by Briza von der Lagerbauer: Keywords: genre fantasy traditional rules-lite; A semi-generic fantasy system, in the genre of D&D and Runequest. There are ten races: human, ogre, pygmie, gnome, troglodyte, duck, mugwump, mongrel, gargoyle and dryad. Action resolution is by rolling under stat+skill on 1d20. Character creation is random-roll attributes and random-roll social class, followed by choosing character class and point-bought skills. ~30 pages rules (HTML).
Pagoda by Jeffrey S. Schecter: Keywords: genre fantasy rules-lite; A short (23-page) Wuxia martial arts RPG. It uses a dice pool of d6s and degrees of duplicity (doubles, triples, quadruples, and so forth) as a way of determining success. Character creation has five parts: elements, attributes, skills, flaws, and zodiac sign. The player picks one primary, two secondary, and two tertiery elements (out of Water, Wood, Fire, Earth, and Metal) to represent emotions and passions. They also pick 1 primary, 2 secondary, and 2 tertiary out of five attributes; and similarly for skills. 23 pages rules (PDF).
The Pandemonium RPG: Keywords: genre traditional fantasy rules-lite; A skill-based system using playing cards. You must play a card less than your skill and higher than the difficulty to succeed. It includes brief supplemental rules for martial arts and magic. ~6 pages core rules (HTML), plus ~4 page supplements (HTML).
Pathfinder Alpha Playtest by Jason Bulmahn: Keywords: genre fantasy traditional long wotc-d20; An adaptation of the 3.5 edition of Dungeons & Dragons by Paizo publishing, using the open source D20 system rules. 66 pages (PDF).
Paths of Virtue by Abraham Pernicka aka "Krin": Keywords: genre scifi fantasy long world; A science fantasy RPG with the campaign world of "Earth:2230", with FTL travel, aliens, cyberware, and magic. It uses a percentile skill-based system. Character creation is random-roll attributes plus open point-buy of skills, advantages, and other aspects. 60 pages rules and background (MSWord).
Pathwanderer by Karl Thornley and David Collins: Keywords: universal fantasy long world; A universal system. Character creation is either random-roll or point-bought attributes with point-bought skills. Resolution is mostly percentile: roll d100 + skill + modifiers, where over 100 is a success. It includes a supplement ("world unit") for early medieval Ireland, between 410 and 793 A.D. 66 pages core rules (PDF), plus 136 pages supplement (PDF).
Pervo by Tomas HV Mørkrid: Keywords: genre fantasy rules-lite; A fantasy RPG about pure and unmitigated violence, available in English and Norwegian (cf. http://www.fabula.no/pervo.html for the Norwegian). Both the method and the setting are inspired by sado-masochism. The game is created to "fulfill the GM's dream of revenge over all players he has ever tried to entertain". Recommended for large player groups (10-20 players), to make the game last, as players/characters are slaughtered at a rate only compared to an industrial slaughterhouse. Part of the method is to insult the players, and drive them from the table, one by one, until the last one is slaughtered. ~6 pages HTML.
Phantasm by Lamar Henderson and Chris Adams: Keywords: genre modern fantasy long; A game of magic in the modern world, using a simple d10 based system. The rules are focussed on the involved magic system. 130 pages rules plus 80 pages background (PDF or RTF).
Phobos by Mark Hughes: Keywords: genre modern fantasy horror long; A partly universal system geared for modern fantasy/horror. It includes a magic system but no setting. Task resolution uses an open-ended d20 roll (20 is reroll and add, 1 is reroll and subtract). Stat or skill + d20 + mods over 20 is a success. Character creation is open point-based. ~48 pages rules (HTML).
Picking Sides by Stacy Gossett: Keywords: genre fantasy rules-lite; A free RPG based on the novel "Picking Sides: The Seven Deadly Sins of Jonathan Sykes" by Stacy Gossett. It has no defined setting, but the PCs are normal humans except for extraordinary power in one of the seven elements (Fire, Water, Earth, Air, Wood, Metal, Spirit), giving various powers based on level. Character creation is limited point-based with level-based advancement. Resolution is percentile. 25 pages (PDF).
Pirates of Dark Water Role-playing Game by Vin Diakuw: Keywords: genre fantasy rules-lite; An adaptation of the Hanna Barbara cartoon series, set on the fantasy world of Mer, where the seas are being infested by a strange "dark water" substance oozing from a fissure. Pirates and others roam the seas in ships that can both sail and fly. It uses a simple dice pool system where any roll of 4-6 indicates a success. Character creation is by simple ranking of attributes and choosing 1 Talent, 1 Gift, and 1 Complication. 30 pages rules and background (PDF).
PLUS, 5th edition by Joseph Steven Coleman: Keywords: genre universal scifi fantasy long rules-lite world; "Player's Labor-Saving Utility System". This is a simple dice-pool system where you compare the total to a target number, with open-ended results. Character generation uses random-roll core attributes (Luck, Body, and Age) , and point-bought attributes and skills based on these. It includes numerous setting adaptations, including an adaptation of the Jorune setting from Skyrealms Publishing and of Space 1889 from GDW. 41 pages basic rules (PDF or text-only) plus 175 pages setting adaptations.
Pocket Dragons by Patrick Wagner: Keywords: genre fantasy rules-lite; A RPG where PC's are tiny dragons (about the size of a Coke bottle) in a medieval fantasy world. Character creation is random-roll attributes and skills (with some rerolls). Resolution is by open-ended dice-pool similar to Shadowrun. 14 pages MSWord format.
The Pokéthulhu Adventure Game, 3rd edition by S. John Ross: Keywords: genre fantasy rules-lite; This is the free third edition of the published RPG. It is a humorous RPG mixing Pokemon and Lovecraftian horror. PCs are Cultists (age 5 to 16) who summon thulhus to do battle with other thulhus. Character creation is point-based, with 30 points for the six stats (Grade Level, Phys Ed, Pokethulhu Lore, Shoplifting, Sanity, and Talking Trash). Action resolution is by rolling under your stat on one to three d12s. 33 pages (PDF).
Potestas by Gary Johnson: Keywords: genre traditional fantasy rules-lite world; A simple homebrew system originally based on the commercial Dragon Warriors rules, set in the fantasy world of "Selentia" (described separately). Point-based character creation, Resolution with 2d10 rolls vs 11+modifiers. ~25 pages rules plus ~5 pages world description (HTML).
Pretender by Kirt "Loki" Dankmyer: Keywords: genre modern fantasy rules-lite; A game where the PCs are "pretenders" : supernatural beings (vampires, angels, etc.) passing as human in 1980s America, whose otherworldly nature and focuses their human faults and virtues. Character creation is by group consensus, setting stats for Earth, Air, Fire, Water, and Spirit on a 1-5 scale. It uses a dice pool system, rolling (stat)d6 and each success lets you control one of: Narration, Motion, Safety, and Style. 22 pages rules and background (PDF,HTML).
Providence Demo Version by Richard Binek, Nicolas Jequier, Jeff Mackintosh, Michael Scott, and Lucien Soulban: Keywords: genre superhero fantasy rules-lite preview; A demo version of the published RPG which mixes fantasy and superheroics. It has no character creation rules but includes a sample adventure including pre-made PC's. 35 pages PDF.
Psychosis Nutshell Rules: Keywords: genre fantasy rules-lite preview; A diceless RPG in a surreal genre where sanity can't be trusted. It uses a tarot deck for resolution in the genre of shifting reality for the PC's. The full version was published by Chameleon Eclectic but is now out of print. ~4 pages rules (text-only).
Pumpkintown by Peter Jared Seckler: Keywords: genre fantasy rules-lite; A fantasy RPG set in a fairy-tale-like town, similar to Tim Burton's "The Nightmare Before Christmas". It uses an adaptation of the Plain English RolePlaying rules. There is also Fudge Pumpkintown, by Mike Gentry. ~20 pages HTML.
Puppetland by John Tynes: Keywords: genre fantasy horror rules-lite; ``A storytelling game with strings set in a grim world of make-believe.'' This is a diceless game set in a bizarre world of horror where puppets are oppressed by bloodthirsty Punch. There is a published version from Hogshead Games for cheap ($7 bundled with another mini-RPG: "Power Kill"). The published version is about 30% longer than the still-available free version. ~14 pages (HTML or RTF).
Quasar by Conroy & Conroy company: Keywords: genre scifi fantasy long; A sci-fi and fantasy RPG, deliberately avoiding occult and unsuitable-for-children elements such as magic, psionics, demons, sex, or gore. It uses a "realistic" system of classes including architect, biologist, chemist, commando, etc. Players Guide 212 pages, GMs Guide 87 pages, Creature Anthology 157 pages (MSWord, RTF, HTML).