Free Role-Playing Games

This is a collection of links to over 500 free role-playing games (RPG's) on the WWW. RPG here refers solely to narrative (aka "table-top", "pencil-and-paper") games rather than various computer games, MUSH's, etc. For more info, see my general RPG page.

In general, each game is listed with author, a capsule description, page count, and file format (i.e. ASCII, HTML, PDF, etc.). The meaning of "page count" is semi-arbitrary for ASCII and HTML, since results differ for different browsers and print setups, but they are at least consistent within each category.

In addition, each entry has a set of non-exclusive keywords. i.e. A well-documented rules-lite game like Fudge will appear as both "rules-lite" and "long", while a science fantasy game will appear as both "scifi" and "fantasy". See my category explanation for what the keywords mean.

1940 - England Invaded by Simon Washbourne: Keywords: genre modern rules-lite; An alternate history RPG in which England is invaded by German troops. It uses a simple system of roll under stat on 1d20. Character creation is limited point-based. 35 pages (PDF format).
The 3D RPG by Scott J. Compton: Keywords: universal rules-lite; "Dice and Deck Designed RPG". It uses (2d12)x10 + 1d10 for its base roll, and involves skills, professions, and other world-specific items being written out on cards. 10 pages (HTML or MSWord format).
The Action! System by Mark Arsenault, Patrick Sweeney, and Ross Winn: Keywords: universal long preview open-license; A universal system, whose version 1.1 is released under the WotC Open Gaming License. There is an extended commercial version (released in print or for download) with 10 extra pages and added artwork. The rules are similar to the Fuzion system. Action resolution is by stat + skill + 3d6 vs difficulty. Character creation is limited point-based. 92 pages free rules (PDF or RTF), plus ~60 pages supplements and variants (RTF format).
Active Exploits Diceless Roleplaying by Brett Bernstein (Politically Incorrect Games): Keywords: universal rules-lite long preview; A universal diceless system. Action resolution is based on spending Luck, Discipline, and Revelation points. Skill lower difficulty, while attributes add to the total. Character creation is limited point-based. There are four free setting books, 20-30 pages each: a modern-day monster-hunter setting ("The Shaded Veil"), a dystopian sci-fi setting ("Overworld"), a modern conspiracy/horror setting ("Harlequinade"), and a medieval Europe setting ("The Kingdom of Norweign"). In addition, there are three commercial settings: HeartQuest, CORPS, and Dreamwalker. 36 pages core rules (PDF) plus 90 pages free settings (PDF).
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).
Advanced Roleplaying Mechanics (ARM) by R. E. Bridson: Keywords: universal rules-lite; A simple (but not quite minimalist) system using logarithmic scales a la TORG and (1d6-1d6) resolution similar to Feng Shui. 16 pages (ASCII only).
Advanced Star Frontiers, 4th edition by JPayne: Keywords: genre scifi supplement; This is an extensive addition to the published "Star Frontiers" game from TSR. It is not really a complete game, but includes substantially rewritten sections. ~50 pages (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
Adventures in Space by Zak Arntson: Keywords: genre scifi rules-lite; A humorous narrative space opera RPG, where players define their PC with a one-word Style, and roll 1d6 to enact plot changes to get both success/failure and a random Word of Science to incorporate into the plot. 7 pages (PDF,HTML).
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).
Agora Playtest by Joshua BishopRoby: Keywords: genre scifi rules-lite; A sci-fi RPG about characters permanently stranded on an uninhabited planet after an interstellar war has wiped out their homeworlds. It uses a dice pool system, taking the lowest die rolled where 1-5 is a success but each "1" loses you that die. Different advantages give you different die types from d4 to d10. 22 pages playtest rules (PDF).
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).
AIF: Keywords: genre scifi rules-lite; A scifi game set 3000 years in the future. Character creation is by random-roll attributes based on species, assigning single skill rank, and selecting occupation(s). 37 pages (PDF or HTML).
Alacrity by Adam McKee and James G. Walker, Jr.: Keywords: universal rules-lite; A simple percentile system, which concentrates an fast resolution (hence the name). Action resolution uses roll under stat on d100. Character creation has random-roll attributes and point-bought skills. ~15 pages HTML
Alien RPG by Chris Tavares Dias: Keywords: genre scifi horror long; An extensive supplement for the Fuzion game system, adapting the movie Aliens and its many spin-offs. ~80 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.
Alternacy by Kizig: Keywords: universal long; A generic RPG using 2d5 skill rolls and broad talents/skills. Uses 16 general talents instead of attributes. Skills are derived from the talents, but values are decided by the referee using a question system (how long has the character trained the skill, how important is the skill to the character, etc...). There is a universal chart for determining special results. 36 pages (MSWord and text).
Alternate Realities by Carter Butts, Karim Nassar, and Brian Rayburn: Keywords: universal long; An "object oriented" roleplaying game, which uses percentiles with some rather advanced math subsumed in a universal table ("DRF"). Character creation uses description, points, or random rolls for attributes and skills. 88 pages (HTML, PDF, MSWord, PostScript).
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).
Alternative Roleplaying Concept (ARC) by Alex `Dabugas' Armstrong: Keywords: universal rules-lite; A diceless RPG which uses a 7-step scale for rating attributes and skills. Action resolution is by comparing the sum of relevant traits and the difficulty, though there is an optional random factor using cards. ~15 pages HTML.
Alternity Fast-Play Rules by Bill Slavicsek and Richard Baker: Keywords: genre scifi rules-lite long; The "Fast-Play" version of the (out-of-print) commercial sci-fi RPG rules. This is available along with many other downloads including adventures and supplements. Players Book 13 pages (PDF). GM's Book 13 pages (PDF). Warships Sourcebook 112 pages (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).
Anarcho Australis by Craig Thomas Judd: Keywords: genre postapocalyptic scifi rules-lite; A post-apocalypse game set in Australia, using a simple d10 skill-based system. ~5 pages ASCII text.
Anarchy by Kenneth Love: Keywords: genre scifi rules-lite; A game set in 3050 where Earth, Venus, and Mars are under tyrranical rule by the Syndicate (including the non-human vampiri and Venusian elves), using a very simple dice pool system similar to Shadowrun. Character creation is random-roll attributes with a random number of bonus points. ~5 pages rules (HTML) plus ~10 pages background.
Angel/Demon: The Rapture by Christopher Blankley: Keywords: genre modern horror long supplement; A supplement for White Wolf's Storyteller system, about playing immaterial angels who manifest by entering human bodies -- fighting with demons who possess them. ~20 pages HTML rules plus ~10 pages sourcebook.
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).
Anime RPG by Ron Keating et al: A simple universal set of mechanics aimed at emulating Japanese anime. Action resolution is an open-ended 1d6 roll vs difficulty, with skill allowing a number of rerolls equal to the skill number. There are traits which give options for more experience. ~12 pages HTML rules.
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).
Appleseed D6 by Mike Lynes: Keywords: genre scifi long; An RPG adaptation of the cyberpunk manga Appleseed by Masamune Shirow, using a variant of West End's "D6 Legen" system. The core mechanics are included with the rules, although it recommends having the rules in addition. ~60 pages rules and background (HTML).
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).
Ardent Offense by David Loren Buehner: Keywords: genre modern scifi rules-lite; Ardent Offense is a minimalist system with some optional mechanics of traditional role-playing. It includes a detailed examination of role-playing philosophies and a brief modern/futuristic setting. 14 pages (PDF, HTML).
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).
Argument Diceless Roleplaying by Rainer K. Koreasalo: Keywords: universal rules-lite; A universal diceless system, which uses a narrative method of resolving skill vs difficulty. It includes brief support for fantasy races, magic from the Kalevala, and vampires. 32 pages (PDF).
ARPLE by Altin Gavranovic: Keywords: universal rules-lite; The "All-purpose Role Playing Logistics Engine", which uses a simple dice-pool system. Attribute rolls are roll 2d6 under attribute, skill rolls are roll d6's equal to skill vs a target number, combat is roll d6's equal to skill: (1-2: nothing, 3-4: defense point, 5-6: offense point). If your offense is greater than opponent's defense, you hit. ~10 pages 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.
Assassin by Hector Rene' Segovia: Keywords: rules-lite live-action; Not really an RPG -- rather a version of the live-action party game, played over days. Players secretly try to kill their target by hitting with a NERF dart or other mock projectile. 10 pages (MSWord format).
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).
Attack of the Mutant Rules System! by Frank T. Sronce: Keywords: genre modern superhero rules-lite; A diceless superhero homebrew, based on Phage Press' Amber diceless RPG. It mostly provides just stats and powers; the diceless resolution rules are sketchy (defaulting to Amber). ~20 pages HTML rules.
Aurea by Boudewijn Rempt, Irina Rempt, Frank N. Rieter, Jasper W. Leedekerken, Martijn Spruit, and Richard van Rijswijk: Keywords: universal rules-lite; A generic RPG system. It uses a universal table with percentile rolls. Character generation is fairly free-form. This version is translated from the original Dutch. ~20 pages HTML.
Aurora Quick-Start Guide by Stephen Mulholland: Keywords: genre scifi long preview; A hard science-fiction spacefaring RPG -- the abbreviated version of the published game available on CD-ROM. Action resolution uses the concept of "Failure Dice". You can choose to roll any number of d10's. That number is added to your skill, but any die which is that number or less is a failure which subtracts 2 from your total. Thus, more dice allows better results but is riskier. Character creation is open point-based. 56 pages quick-start guide (PDF), plus several additions including two 28-page alien species guides.
The Awakening Rules Engine v2.1.1 by Dan Regewitz: Keywords: universal rules-lite long; A universal RPG. The basic rules are freeware (optional $3 charge), with two commercial background settings for $6 each. It uses a point-based, skill-based character creation, emphasizing freeform discovering things about their characters. It uses a simple system with a general dice pool (starting at 2 dice) to split among all actions, resolving stat+dice vs difficulty. 75 pages rules (RTF).
BabeWatch by Simon Washbourne: Keywords: genre modern rules-lite; A humorous mini-RPG based on the television series "Baywatch". You create a "hunk" or "babe" by distributing 15 attribute points and choosing 10 binary skills, plus random trait rolls. Action resolution is roll under stat on 1d10 (if skilled) or 1d20 (if unskilled). 8 pages rules (PDF).
B-Movie: Scared Stiff by Mike Demetro: Keywords: genre horror rules-lite long; A parody of both horror movies and horror RPGs, this uses simple attributes and "stereotype" classes. As an interesting inverse, character have stats for flaws instead of abilities. Thus, your stats are Weakness, Clumsiness, Ignorance, Cowardice, Paranoia and Belief. (instead of Strength, Dexterity, etc.) ~44 pages HTML.
Bad Attitudes by Berin Kinsman: Keywords: genre modern rules-lite; A humorous RPG of action movie cliches where characters have a single attribute ("Attitude") and a few skills. Resolution is by rolling under your skill on 1d6. It includes a plus a random plot generator. 6 pages (PDF).
Badlands by Charles R. Capko Jr.: Keywords: genre postapocalyptic scifi rules-lite; A post-apocalypse RPG based on the computer game Wasteland. It uses (1d20 + Attribute + Skill) vs difficulty. Character creation is by random-roll attributes, class choice, and point-bought skills. 45 pages rules (MSWord or Text).
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.
Bamf RPG by Brett A. Paul: Keywords: universal rules-lite long; A simple percentile system developed partly for Play-by-Email. Roll under skill on percentile dice. Combat has a chart showing varying levels of success. In other skills, your attribute determines number of re-rolls allowed. Includes a system of special abilities (magical/superpower/etc.). 67 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).
Basic Pulp by J. Carpio Dregg: Keywords: genre modern rules-lite; A 1930s pulp action RPG. Action resolution is attribute bonus + skill + 1d20 vs difficulty. Character creation is random-roll attributes and point-bought skills and superpowers. 34 pages rules (PDF).
The Basic System Core, Version 3 by J. Parker and Jay Libby: Keywords: universal rules-lite; A simple universal system with seven attributes (Intelligence, Spirit, Charisma, Agility, Strength, Endurance, and Speed) and skills. Both are rated eitheras flat numbers or in named superheroic step similar to Marvel Superhero (Below Average = 5, Average = 10, up to Incredible = 40, Awesome = 50). Action resolution is attribute number + skill number + 1d20 vs difficulty. Character creation includes either random-roll or point-bought attributes (10+1d10 each or N points among them), and point-bought skills. It includes some miniature rules as well, and extended combat options like hit location. 38 pages (PDF).
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).
Bedlam by Matt Machell: Keywords: genre modern rules-lite; A storytelling mini-RPG, where each of the PCs is a retired evil mastermind. The player is given a set of words which he has to use in anecdotes he tells about attempts to take over the world. There are rules for challenges and interrupts. ~2 pages rules (HTML).
Bernard & Jean: Keywords: genre modern rules-lite; A humorous French-language RPG about policemen (gendarmes) in the south of France. 96 pages rules (PDF).
~15 pages HTML.
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.
Bibliotech: the Future Past by David Bubar: Keywords: genre scifi rules-lite long; A sci-fi RPG based on the Bible, with politics on another planet based on biblical figures. The system uses percentiles skills with six degrees of success/failure.
Bid-It Diceless Roleplaying System by Michael Coe: Keywords: universal rules-lite preview; No longer a free RPG, but a cheap $2 download for the playtest version of a diceless system where the player spends task points to succeed, paying the difference between his skill and the difficulty. 16 pages (PDF).
Bif Bam Pow by Stephen K. Fuelleman / Entropy Games: Keywords: genre modern superhero long; A medium complexity superhero game. Action resolution is roll under attribute on Nd6, or roll under skill on 1d12. Character creation has random-roll attributes (Strength, Will, Intelligence, Constitution, Personality, Dexterity, and Vitality); random-roll powers (rolling once on the Offense, Defense, Transportation, and Special powers); and point-bought skills (15 points). 109 pages PDF.
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).
Blur: The Hand is Quicker than the Die by Daniel Pond: Keywords: universal rules-lite; A minimalist universal system. ~10 pages (HTML or MSWord).
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.
Brains and Brawn by Steven Tremblay and Jamie Cadorette: Keywords: genre modern superhero rules-lite; A generic superhero RPG. Action resolution uses a hand of three dominoes for each player, resolving by attribute + skill + the "good" side of the domino played vs difficulty plus the "evil" side of the domino. Character creation is open point-based. 20 pages rules (PDF).
Breaking the Ice by Emily Care Boss: Keywords: genre modern rules-lite; A game for two players about modern dating. It is GMless with narrative rules where each player takes turns setting up a scene and then rolling for the result on the level of attraction. 7 pages rules (PDF or 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.
Bump in the Night RPG by Michael Dunlap: Keywords: genre modern horror; A modern-day horror RPG where the PCs are vampires, werewolves, ghosts, demons, and more in New York City. It uses a skill-based percentile system: roll under skill on 1d100, or roll 1d100 + attack bonus vs 1d100 + defense bonus for combat. Character creation is by random-roll attributes plus skill points and power points depending on your creature type. ~50 pages rules (HTML).
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).
Capes Lite by Tony Lower-Basch: Keywords: genre modern superhero rules-lite preview; The preview version of a superhero game with no GM. Instead, there are mechanics for narration of conflicts. There are a set of conflicts represented by index cards, each with two d6s (of different colors) on them. 10 pages rules (PDF).
CARDS by Leonard Tai: Keywords: universal rules-lite; A simple homebrewed role-playing system where the only materials involved are ordinary playing cards. Emphasis is placed on story-telling skills, speed and ease of play. It includes supplements for the animated video series "Saber Marionette R", "Slayers", and "Children of the Blue Star". ~8 pages core rules (HTML) plus ~25 pages supplements (HTML).
CARE by Chris Parlevliet: Keywords: universal rules-lite; A universal system. It uses ordinary playing cards for resolution: players draw a number of cards based on skill and check how many are over a target number. Character creation is either a priority system or an open point system. ~30 pages (MSWord or HTML).
Carnivore Wharf by Diggory Steele-Perkins (digstar): Keywords: genre modern rules-lite; A mini-RPG of modern-day fantasy using a variant of the Fudge rules ("Fudge HALO"). 5 pages rules (PDF).
Cartoon Action hour Demo by Z-Man Games: Keywords: genre scifi superhero rules-lite preview; An RPG in the genre of 80's style action cartoons. Actions resolution is by stat (rated -4 to +4) plus 1d12 vs difficulty, though super-abilities replace 1d12 with 2d12 or more. These preview rules have basic combat but no character creation rules. 7 page preview rules (PDF) plus 15 page introductory scenario.
Cat RPG: Keywords: genre modern rules-lite open-license; A humorous Public Domain game about modern-day cats who fight Snufles -- invisible jellyfish that threaten humans. Characters have 10 stats: Leap, Bat, Pounce, Patience, Speed, Climb, Hear, Love, Transcend, and STWCNBS (See That Which Can Not Be Seen). Resolution is by 1d20 + stat vs difficulty. 7 page rules (PDF) plus 7 pages introductory scenario (PDF).
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).
Chronos by Francois "Roboduck" Suter: Keywords: universal rules-lite preview; A French-language RPG, a preview of the published system by les Createurs Genevois. ~15 pages (HTML).
Chthonian by Zak Arntson: Keywords: genre modern horror rules-lite; An RPG of pulp horror, split into subgenres "Pulp Adventure", "Weird Tales", and "Shocking Discovery". Character creation is freeform numerical traits with GM approval. Action resolution is 1d12 plus all relevant traits vs difficulty. There are also rules for "Terrible Insight" gained by seeing horrors. ~15 pages (HTML).
Cineflex v2.2 by Dariel R. A. Quiogue: Keywords: universal rules-lite long; A cinematic universal system. It uses a d20 dice pool for action resolution, roll 1-3 d20's over a target number. Character creation is by selecting a focus ability, up to four secondary abilities, and disabilities. The rules include a generic magic system, and vehicle/mecha rules. There are three developed settings for use with it: The Twilight Age (a science fantasy setting), Barsoom (an adaptation of Edgar Rice Burrough's early sci-fi), and Red Branch (mythic pre-Christian Ireland). ~30 pages rules (HTML) or 16 pages rules v2.1 (PDF), plus ~75 pages Twilight Age background (HTML), ~30 pages Barsoom background (HTML), ~30 pages Ireland background (HTML).
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).
City of IF: Keywords: universal online rules-lite; An online roleplaying site with forum "storygames" -- where there is a primary author who writes chapters, but at the end of each chapter all players suggest options, which are decided by poll. ~2 pages instructional FAQ (HTML) plus the forums.
Classroom Deathmatch Free PDF by Jake Richmond and Matt Schlotte: Keywords: genre modern horror long; The free release of a 2007 commercial game on PDF. This is a modern-day action/horror RPG based on Japanese fiction including the film "Battle Royale" where a class of high school students are forced to fight each other to the death for televised entertainment. It uses a dice pool conflict resolution system (using d6, d8, d10, and d12), with special rules for narration. 108 pages rules and background (PDF).
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).
Combat Monster by Jeff Wiker: Keywords: universal rules-lite; A parody game. 4 pages (text-only).
Conestoga by Chris Tavares Dias: Keywords: genre scifi; A mecha space opera game universe about battling empires in a distant future, using the Fuzion / Mekton Z rules. ~40 pages (HTML).
Conspiracy X Demo Kit: Keywords: genre modern scifi rules-lite preview; A demo version of the published modern conspiracy RPG by Eden Studios. PC's are agents of Aegis, a secret organization at work within the U.S. government fighting alien and supernatural menaces. It uses a simple system with 5 levels of skill and difficulty. If your stat is greater than the difficulty, success is automatic. If it is equal, you must roll 7 or less on 2d6. If it is one less, you must roll 4 or less. 16 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).
Continuum by Travis Casey: Keywords: universal long; A straightforward skill-based system, using skill+attribute+1d6-1d6 vs difficulty. It uses point-based character creation. It includes a generic magic system and a short superpower system. ~60 pages (text-only).
CORE Rules by David F. Nalle: Keywords: universal rules-lite; ``Character Oriented Role-playing Engine.'' A minimalist skill-based system, where you roll under skill on 2d6. ~4 pages ASCII text.
Core Elements, Toolbox Edition by Butch Hargrove and Butch Curry: Keywords: universal rules-lite open-license; A minimalist adaptation of Wizards of the Coasts' "D20 System", with brief appendices for supernatural powers, action points, insanity, and others. 18 pages rules (PDF).
CORPS Nutshell Download by Greg Porter: Keywords: universal rules-lite preview; This is the `nutshell' version of the commercial CORPS universal RPG by BTRC. It is available in 7 languages (English, French, German, Finnish, Italian, Polish, and Portuguese). The system is skill-based emphasizing a minimum of die-rolling. The difficulty you succeed at is essentially skill + 1d10 / 2 (round down). Character creation is limited point-based. 4 pages rules PDF format (for each language) plus two post-apocalypse supplements: 9 pages and 6 pages PDF format.
Cosmic Synchronicity v3 by Joseph Teller and Kiralee McCauley: Keywords: genre modern scifi universal long; A universal system, which balances PC's by the principle that a more powerful PC (i.e. higher total attributes) will have critical failures happen more often. Actions are resolved by rolling under (stat or skill)*4 on percentile dice. There are personality traits ("Aspects") that determine the points available in different skill groups. It includes a setting book entitled "Earth Unmasked" -- about an alternate 2025 where aliens and supernatural monsters have emerged. 119 pages core rules (PDF or HTML) plus 151 page setting book (PDF)
Cosmos: Keywords: universal long; A universal system, built to address problems with D&D. Character creation includes random-roll attributes and point-bought skills. Action resolution is percentile roll over skill. ~80 pages rules (text-only)
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).
Courts & Corsets by Zak Arntson: Keywords: genre rules-lite; A storytelling mini-RPG about historical intrigue in the genre of Amadeus and Dangerous Liaisons. The mechanics are entirely on a bidding process, where players compete to define story elements by spending from a limited pool of points ("crowns"). ~4 pages rules (HTML).
Covenant by Matt Machell: Keywords: genre modern rules-lite; The modern-day RPG where the PCs are members of a secret society which prepared for centuries for an apocalypse that never happened. Now the society which controlled governments and manipulated religions is fracturing. Character creation includes defining 2 freeform "edges", 2 freeform flaws, and 5 skills. Action resolution is rolling a pool of d6s depending on how traits apply, modified by drama points and rerolls. 19 pages rules (PDF).
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.
Creature Feature: Monster Movie Role-playing: Keywords: genre modern horror rules-lite; A storytelling game about B-movie horror films. There mechanics are based on players spending dice (d6s) from a "budget". Characters and other elements are bought with points, then written on index cards. During "filming", the cards are shuffled and dealt to different players who control them. ~10 pages rules (HTML).
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.
Criminal Gang Warfare: Delta by Tux 667 and co.: Keywords: genre scifi; A sci-fi RPG. It includes stats for vehicles (including mecha "hardsuits"), NPC's, and character classes but the rules appear incomplete. ~5 pages class rules, plus ~15 pages equipment and background (text-only).
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).
Cthonian by Zak Arntson: Keywords: genre modern horror rules-lite; A pulp horror system, scaled in grittiness from "Pulp Adventure" (least gritty) to "Weird Tale" to "Shocking Discovery" (most gritty). Character creation is completely freeform assigning of traits. Action resolution is stat + 1d12 vs difficulty, potentially modified by spending "nodules" (a sort of fate point). ~15 pages rules (HTML).
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).
Cychosis by Grant Graves (Mind's Eye Publishing): Keywords: genre scifi rules-lite; A simple "RPG/dice game", where the PCs are sentient robots (called Cybers) on the world Cyberia. Some robots are turned into rampaging monsters by an errant virus. It uses a special 3d6 roll for contests, where a basic roll is always subtracted from the opponent's point total. Character creation is open point-based. 27 pages (PDF).
Cychosys, Version 9.0 by William Straight: Keywords: genre universal rules-lite; A universal system, sketchily described. Resolution is based on a series of 1d12 rolls, with special meaning for rolls of 11 and 12. Character creation is open point-bought. 54 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)
D20 Modern System Reference Document, v3.5: Keywords: genre modern long open-license; The basic mechanics for the commercial game, D20 Modern, 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)
d6GE RPG by 3Muse: Keywords: universal superhero rules-lite; A universal RPG. Action resolution is by stat plus 2d6 vs difficulty. Character creation is purely random-roll stats in the basic system. It includes a brief superpowers supplement. 9 pages rules (PDF) plus 8 pages superhero supplement (PDF).
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).
Daidalos by jochen eid: Keywords: universal rules-lite long; A German-language diceless RPG, with an emphasis on dramatic storytelling. 69 pages rules and background (PDF or 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).
Darker Days by Dudi Rippel: Keywords: genre scifi rules-lite; A cyberpunk game set in 2031, using a simple 2d6-based system (skill+2d6+mods, needing 12 or more to succeed). Character creation is point-based. 25 pages rules (HTML and MSWord) plus ~15 pages background (HTML).
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).
Dark Time by Stephen and Ellen Bradley: Keywords: genre scifi rules-lite world; A dark future RPG setting in the year 3050 in New York, intended for use with the Fudge rules. ~5 pages HTML.
DCS by David Chart: Keywords: universal rules-lite; A simple universal system, using stat+1d10 vs difficulty. Characters have three basic attributes (physical/mental/social) and freeform abilities. It includes personality mechanics, fate points, and crafts rules. There are also notes on using it with Columbia Games' Hârn setting. ~30 pages rules (HTML or text-only).
The Dead: a role-playing game by kreg mosier: Keywords: genre modern rules-lite; A zombie horror RPG, using a simple dice-pool systems. Resolution is by rolling d6s equal to stat plus modifiers, where every 5 or 6 is one success. Any success lets the player narrate, while the GM narrates failures. Characters accumulate Cold and Fear points from their encounters. Character creation is dividing 6 points between three attributes (Fight, Evade, and Think), plus choosing background perks equal to the Think stat and an optional relationship. 36 pages rules (PDF).
deadEarth by J.T. Smith with Chris Hagness and Michael Helfman: Keywords: genre postapocalyptic scifi long; A post-nuclear-apocalypse survival RPG, the 51-page free version of the 174-page published game from Anarchy inK. Available free after web registration. It uses a d6 dice-pool system with random-roll character creation including 100 mutations (1000 in the published version!). 51 page Players Handbook (PDF), 101 page GM handbook expansion (PDF).
Dead Meat: Ultima Carneficina Dello Zombie! by S.P. Wipfli: Keywords: genre horror rules-lite; A Zombie/Horror mini-RPG. There are 3 attributes (Zip, Whomp, and Guts) rated in number of d6's. Each die that comes up 5 or 6 is a success. 4 pages rules (HTML).
Dead Weight: Keywords: genre modern horror rules-lite; A post-apocalyptic game where zombies have taken over the world, and tribes survive in big cities by staying on higher floors and barricading themselves up there. It has a broad scene resolution mechanic based on how dice match character stats. Character creation is limited point-based. Stats include Grace, three Virtues (Haste, Cunning, and Passion), and a set of three descriptive tags. ~8 pages rules (HTML).
Death or Glory by Alexander Trofimov: Keywords: universal long; A generic percentile system similar to Runequest, with supplements for firearms, magic, and medieval background. ~20 pages rules (ASCII text only), plus 20 pages supplements.
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.
deGenesis by Christian Gunther: Keywords: genre postapocalyptic scifi long preview; A German-language post-apocalyptic RPG, a free download with identical content to the commercially published book. It uses a system based on 2d10 roll-under-skill. 380 pages rules and background (PDF).
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).
A Description-Based RPG System by Charles Ryan: Keywords: universal rules-lite; An experimental attempt to create a numberless system, while retaining die rolls against an assigned difficulty. 12 pages HTML.
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 (??).
Destiny - a decision driven roleplaying game by Lance Dyas: Keywords: universal rules-lite; The draft version of a diceless GM-judged system, which uses various stats to guide the GMs decisions -- including a scale of 0 to 7 of goal importance which the player ranks, selection of strategic method (from 5 options), and allocation of deep resources (Mana and Adrenaline points) and Luck (Serendipity and Karma). Character skill advancement is managed by allotting man-hours. ~15 pages rules (HTML).
The Destiny System by J. Scott Pittman: Keywords: universal rules-lite; A universal RPG system, which uses GM-designed roles (including occupation and race) and player-defined skills. There is a system of sand points representing sand running through an hourglass for the character, which measures progress towards the character's Destiny. 40 pages rules (PDF).
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).
Diceless by Mark William Henshaw: Keywords: universal rules-lite; A deterministic diceless system where players spend "Luck Points" to succeed (stats+luck points spent vs difficulty). ~10 pages HTML.
Dick Tracy: The Roleplaying Game by Cynthia Miller (aka Baby Cindi) and Sabrina Belle (Miss Skitch): Keywords: genre modern rules-lite long; An RPG based on the original comic strip. Character creation is a mix of random-roll and point-based, including 8 attributes, skills, and ads/disads. Resolution is by 2d6+attribute+skill vs difficulty. ~60 pages HTML.
Dimensioni by ??: Keywords: universal rules-lite; An Italian-language generic RPG system, with a focus on ease of learning and narrative play. It is structured in tree difficulty levels, going to the easiest one (playable even without dice) to the most complex one (for player that love to roll some more dice). There are two manuals: the Dimensioni rules manual and the Dimensioni Arcane manuals with the magic system. ~140 pages core rules and magic system (PDF).
Discernment, v2.0 by Michael S. Miller: Keywords: genre modern rules-lite; A GM-less game-within-a-game where a panel of Scholars attempt to discern the secret "Soul Quality" of a Subject. Each scholar leads the Subject through a Scenario, like having multiple GMs for a single player but with a wrapping story. 10 pages rules (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).
DL CORE, version 0.12 by Lonnie Ezell et al.: Keywords: universal rules-lite preview; A universal set of mechanics (short for "Dragon's Landing Cinematic Open Role-playing Engine"). Character creation is by choosing backstory packages for Childhood, Education, Passion, and Career; plus four free points. Alternately there is limited point-buy. Advancement is by fulfilling certain "keys" which reward points to improve. Resolution is by rolling 1d10 + attribute + skill vs difficulty. 50 pages (PDF).
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.
Doubt by Fredrik Axelzon and Tobias Wrigstad: Keywords: genre rules-lite; A relationship drama larp scenario in English, Swedish, Danish, Italian, and Finnish. It is about two actors (Tom and Julia) playing two characters in a play (Peter and Nicole). There are four larp players for these four parts, and action varies between real-life and the play. 44 pages (PDF).
D-Quest by Dylan Craig: Keywords: universal rules-lite; A simple generic system intended for fantasy. It uses a dice-pool system: 2d6 with bonus or penalty dice, taking the best or worst 2 from the dice rolled. Resolution is stat + roll vs difficulty. There is no background, magic, or ranged combat rules. ~6 pages rules (HTML).
Draft by Pitt Murmann: Keywords: universal rules-lite open-license; A simple fantasy-oriented universal system released under the Open Content license. The PDF of version 0.4 is still available, but unfortunately earlier versions and editable copies were lost in a disk crash. Action resolution is skill + 1d10 vs difficulty. Character creation is limited point-based, splitting attribute points among the nine attributes, and skill points among skills (with costs based on controlling attribute). The basic rules include a brief magic system. 32 pages rules (PDF).
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.
Dramatic License by Simon Seah: Keywords: universal rules-lite; Direct download of a universal RPG system. It is cinematic in style, with stats for Coolness and so forth. Action resolution is by attribute + skill + die roll vs difficulty. The die roll by default is d6, but can optionally be changed. Character creation is open point-bought. 98 pages RTF.
Dread Quickstart by Epidiah Ravachol: Keywords: genre horror rules-lite preview; The preview version of the published horror RPG, Dread, which uses a diceless resolution system based on pulling blocks out from a tower of blocks (such as the game, Jenga). 4 pages (PDF).
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).
The Drones by Ian Crowther, Sheila Thomas, Victoria Uren: Keywords: genre modern rules-lite; An RPG based on P.G. Wodehouse, with the PCs playing members of The Drones Club in 1920's London. A simple system is provided, ~24 pages (PDF or HTML).
DUDE by Mark Hughes: Keywords: universal rules-lite; A universal system, used for "The Alan Smithee Project": the RPG of Hollywood gone wrong. Characters have a single attribute called "DUDEness" which is how good they are at nearly everything. Resolution is by standard playing cards and chips. ~10 pages HTML rules.
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.
Dystopia Shareware Edition by Gavin Hadaller: Keywords: genre scifi rules-lite; The shareware version of an electronically published game, about fighting corporate repression in America 2155 A.D. 8 pages rules (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).
EGO: Endless Gaming Options by Tom Doolan: Keywords: universal rules-lite; A simple dice-pool system: rolling d6's where 5 or 6 counts as a success, and difficulty is by number of successes required. ~18 pages HTML.
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.
Elegant Role-playing by Gregor Hutton: Keywords: universal rules-lite; A simple universal system with three attributes: Mastery, Wisdom, and Power. Action resolution is attribute plus 1d6 vs difficulty, or attribute plus best of two or three d6 rolls if specialties/ skills apply. Character creation is limited point-based. 8 pages rules (PDF).
Empire of Satanis by Darrick Dishaw: Keywords: genre modern horror rules-lite long; A horror role-playing game, where the characters are fiends which live in a hellish universe called Yidathroth, or visit the human world (known to them as Sha-la). There are fourteen races of fiends -- and all are unfathomably evil, and strive towards godhood through dark magics. It uses a dice-pool system, where resolution is by rolling attribute + skill d6s, and taking the highest -- where sixes are open-ended. Also, once each scene a player can roll 1d6, and if the result is a six, the player can declare a statement to be true in the game. 62 pages rules (PDF).
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.
Encounter Critical by S. John Ross: Keywords: genre scifi rules-lite; A humorous parody of early RPGs, printed as a mock garage production from 1979. Character creation is random-roll attributes (3d6), then selecting race, optional racial modifier and character class. There are 12 character races: Amazon, Dwarf, Elf, Frankenstein, Hobling (i.e. hobbit), Human, Klengon, Lizard Man, Planetary Ape, Robodroid, Vulkin, and Wooky. The racial modifiers are "Cave Primitive", "Evolved or Advanced", "Mutation", and "Mixed Race or Bionic". Character classes are Warrior, Warlock, Criminal, Pioneer, Doxy (i.e. prostitute), and Psi Witch. There are 19 percentile skills including unusual choices of "Consume Alien Food" and "See the Future". 28 pages PDF.
Endland by BSI Productions: Keywords: genre postapocalyptic long preview; A German-language post-apocalyptic RPG. It was a commercial RPG that is now out of print, and the full rules are now available for download. 297 pages rules and background (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).
Entalis by Robert Barrows: Keywords: genre scifi long; A science fiction RPG set on a planet ("Entalis") which is key to an interdimensional gateway. It uses a percentile, skill-based system. Character creation is random-roll attributes and occupation-based skills with point-bought skill advancement. ~80 pages rules and background (HTML).
EPIC: Keywords: genre traditional fantasy; A generic fantasy system, using classes and levels with a percentile skill system. ~29 pages HTML.
Epitome by Pitt Mumann: Keywords: universal rules-lite open-license; A universal system, released under the Open Content License. It uses a symbolic character sheet with a circle representing "self", with an outer band of "demeanor", a middle band of "nature", and an inner circle of "soul". It uses primarily diceless resolution relying on GM judgement. 11 pages (PDF).
Epoch by Jonathan Clarke: Keywords: genre scifi long; A space opera RPG closely based on "Star Trek", attempting for less pseudo-science and more cinematic feel. It uses a dice-pool system, taking highest of Nd6 where the number depends on how many traits apply to the task. Character creation consists of picking freeform traits (i.e. "Security Officer" is a sample trait). 71 pages (MSWord format).
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).
Ergo by Ian Millington: Keywords: universal rules-lite long; An experimental collaborative RPG -- meaning without a GM. The system is a Fudge variant. ~40 pages ASCII text.
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.
Essential Spectra by Eric Kimball and Robert A. Rodger (Arrogant Game Design): Keywords: universal rules-lite; A universal system, which rates characters in subjective ratings designated by six colors: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple. Each character has a number of dice which are special six-sided dice with colors for faces (so one character might have a die which is red/ red/ red/ orange/ green/ blue). Action resolution uses these color die rolls. Character creation is limited point-based. The basic rules include short systems for psionics, aliens, and magic. 45 pages rules (PDF).
Eternal Soldier by Christopher Arnold, Rob Arnold, and Joe Mays (Tai-Gear Simulations): Keywords: universal long; A full generic system somewhat similar to Chaosium's "Basic Roleplaying". It uses a skill-based percentile system, using other polyhedral dice as well. Character creation allows attributes to be generated by several means, with point-bought skills. ~50 pages (HTML).
Evient by Chris Lynch: Keywords: genre superhero rules-lite preview; The preview/playtest rules for a superhero RPG system with no set skills and variable scaling (the GM sets "Q-units" of difficulty/damage/etc.). It uses a dice pool system for rolling successes. ~24 pages HTML.
The Evil: a short horror rpg by Christopher Lernö: Keywords: genre modern horror rules-lite; A generic horror-genre mini-RPG. Action resolution is roll under stat on 1d20. Character generation is freeform traits and assignment. It includes GM notes and brief adventures ideas but no defined background. 7 pages rules (PDF).
Evil Hunter: Fighting the Darkness: Keywords: genre modern horror rules-lite; A modern occult horror RPG about hunters fighting supernatural monsters. ~35 pages HTML.
Evolution by Hector Rene' Segovia: Keywords: genre scifi rules-lite; A semi-RPG where each player designs a species and plays an example of that species. Each session the players play members of their species interacting, and then between session they can "evolve" their species. 12 pages MSWord format.
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).
Executive Decision by Greg Stolze with Vincent Baker, Dennis Detwiller, Ron Edwards, and Chad Underkoffler: Keywords: genre modern rules-lite; A modern political game, where the players are cabinet members to the President of the United States in a time of crisis. This is now free for download, having been funded through the "ransom model" of game development where individuals paid until a threshold was reached. 15 pages rules and background (PDF).
Exemplar by Jeffrey S. Schecter: Keywords: genre scifi rules-lite; A science fiction RPG set in a universe where technological Templars fight in the name of the Intergalactic Government and Church (IGAC). Action resolution is rolling under stat on a number of d10s (1d10 to 5d10 or more) where the number of dice depends on difficulty. Character creation is open point-based, and includes plot points. 32 pages rules and background (PDF).
Ex Mortis V 1.0 BRPS by Michael J. Cheney: Keywords: universal long; A percentile skill-based system, using open-ended percentile rolls. Character creation is partly class-based, with random-roll attributes and point-bought skills. ~60 pages HTML.
Fable by Ben Sones: Keywords: universal rules-lite; A simple system using a step-die approach (i.e. roll a d6 for Average skill, d10 for Great skill vs a similar die for difficulty). Character creation involves writing up freeform traits, and then assigning ratings to them from a pool of points. Point cost is based on GM-assessed usefulness and rating. ~28 pages (MSWord).
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).
<"http://www.nma-fallout.com/forum/dload.php?action=category&cat_id=63"> Fallout: The Pencil and Paper Role-Playing Game, v2.0 by Jason N. Mical: Keywords: genre postapocalyptic scifi long; A post-nuclear-apocalypse RPG set after a nuclear war in 2077, based on the computer game by Interplay. It uses a simple percentile system with limited point-based character creation. 157 pages core rules (PDF), plus several sourcebooks.
FaLoR: Fast and Loose Roleplaying by Peter Kisner: Keywords: universal rules-lite; A simple universal system. Action resolution is 2d4 + a broad stat ("role") vs difficulty. Character creation is freeform determining of the role and its rating (1-5). 15 pages core rules (PDF).
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).
Far Space by David King: Keywords: genre scifi rules-lite; Previews of a futuristic space-opera RPG, set in an alternate universe in a human-populated solar system in the midst of a devastating war that has be raging for over 100 years. There are six major feudal houses who fight for control of the sixteen-planet system. Currently this has a 16-page preview of the combat system, which is based on stat + 1d10 + modifiers rolls. Damage is done to a luck statistic, which controls the the chance of a kill with the next attack. 16 pages combat system preview (PDF).
FAST by Steve Bruns: Keywords: universal rules-lite; A minimalist universal RPG, using a simple dice-pool system. Roll d6's equal to skill: each "6" counts as 2 successes, each 2-5 counts as 1 success. It also includes a starship combat system and various optional rules. ~2 pages Quick-Start rules (HTML), plus ~10 pages optional rules.
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).
FATE: Fudge Adventures in Tabletop Entertainment by Rob Donoghue and Fred Hicks (Evil Hat Productions): Keywords: universal rules-lite open-license; A variant of Steffan O'Sullivan's Fudge, which is a standalone game but recommends familiarity with the original. Like the original, it is now released under the WotC Open Gaming License. Character creation is by five phases in the life of the character, with a literary "aspect" and four skill points for each. It includes several sample magic systems. 90 pages rules (PDF).
FERpg by Nathan Hill and Mystic Ages Online: Keywords: universal rules-lite; "The Fast and Easy RPG". A simple set of rules where each character has 3 freeform skills (one at 2d4+2, one at 1d4+2, and one at 1d4). Resolution is by rolling under skill on 1d12. ~10 pages HTML.
FFRE or Sagatafl