10000$ Reward
Herman Hunter
1989
Warlords Production
A French-language RPG set in the American Wild West, using a system
intended to be "simple and effective". The basic rules (58 pages)
includes only character creation, combat rules, a list of weapons,
and a brief introductory scenario.
13th Age
Rob Heinsoo
Jonathan Tweet
2013
Pelgrane Press
A fantasy tabletop role-playing game with a customizable setting, based on a variant of the
D20 System from third edition<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">Dungeons & Dragons</a>.
It mixes in story-oriented mechanics, along with no predefined skills and no assumption of
figures or a map for combat. It does include ten levels grouped into three tiers.
The setting includes default places, a default bestiary, and 13 default figures of power
in the world (known as Icons - such as the Archmage, the Diabolist, and others). However,
other details are left open to be filled in as part of character creation.
1950 Allarme UFO!
Antonello Lotronto
1996
Qualitygame
An Italian-language sci-fi RPG based on the 50's alien invasion
B-movies, part of the "I Giochi del 2000" collection.
1w6 Freunde
Markus Heinen
Thomas Michalski
Ralf Murk
Matthias Schaffrath
2009
Prometheus Games Verlag
A German-language RPG about child detectives, solving crimes under the
radar of their parents and teachers. The basic games includes a
city setting and a sample adventures ("The Curse of Wolpert Festinger").
2089: Le Jeu du Tricentenaire
Tristan Lhomme
1989
Casus Belli / Excelsior Publications / Jeux Descartes
A French-language humorous sci-fi RPG, first published in issue #56 of
the French gaming magazine Jeux & Stratégie. It is set
in a future 2089 where characters are live-action roleplayers attempting
to revive the French Revolution three hundred years later using a mix
of muskets, laser pistols, and androids. Character creation uses
random-roll attributes (2d6 each for Intelligence, Dexterity, Body and
Appearance). Each attribute has three skills. For resolution, the
player rolls from 2d6 to 4d6 depending on the difficulty, trying to
roll under attribute or skill value. The game itself divides the
reenactment into six sequences that mix historic events with
futuristic twists and turns.
The 23rd Letter
Matt Johnston
John Fleming
Colin Johnston
Eamon Watters
Mark Lamki
Lesley McLarnon
1996
Crucible
A sci-fi conspiracy RPG, set in a world where psychics are real
and becoming more and more commonplace. The PC's are psychics or
humans caught in the secretive war between government projects
and the corporate powers. It uses a simple skill-based system
(the "ERIS" system), which includes rules for psychic powers.
3:16 Carnage Amongst The Stars
Gregor Hutton
2008
BoxNinja
A science-fiction role-playing game, where the player characters are
members of 16th Brigade, 3rd Army, of the Terran Expeditionary Force.
They are soldiers fighting alien bugs that are trying to kill every
living thing in the Universe to protect the home world.
The 3Fold System
Clint Krause
2004
KNRPG Productions
A simple universal RPG system, similar to the Storyteller system from
White Wolf.
.45 Adventure: Crimefighting Action in the Pulp Era
Richard A. Johnson
2006
Rattrap Productions
A tabletop miniatures game of two-fisted action set during the era
of the pulp magazines, with some role-playing aspects. It can be
played without a gamemaster, with as few as 3 models per player.
'45 - Psychobilly Retropocalypse
James Desborough
2006
Postmortem Studios
104
A post-apocalyptic sci-fi RPG based on sci-fi B-movies of the 1930's
through 1950's. It is set in a tongue-in-cheek alternate future where
WWII was fought by atomic bombs on all sides, creating an America that
is largely a radioactive wasteland populated by mutant greasers,
beautiful dames, giant ants, and the like. It uses a simple dice
pool system called "Xpress engine". Resolution is by rolling a
number of d6s equal to attribute, with a target number based on
comparing skill level to a universal chart. Character creation
includes ten Attributes in pairs ranging from 1-5, along with skills
and a simple system of merits and flaws.
7th Sea
John Wick
Jennifer Wick
1999
Alderac Entertainment Group
A swashbuckling RPG set on an alternate world ("Theah") very similar
to 17th century Earth with the addition of magic and various name
changes. There are parallels to most of the major European countries
("Castillian" for Spainiards, etc.) but there is no New World.
The system is a dice pool system: roll dice equal to attribute
+ skill, keeping a number of dice equal to attribute. There are
also bonus dice of a different color.
9th Generation
Jeff Siadek
1986
Jeff Siadek Enterprises
A tongue-in-cheek post-apocalyptic RPG, published in 3 books
including an introductory scenario and a GM screen. Supplements
include three extra scenarios, and a rules expansion packet that
allows conversion of the plots into fantasy, western, or
futuristic settings.
Abbeta: Fantasy Role-Playing Rules for the Twinflare Solar System
Martin Hackett
Peter Bennett
1984
self-published
28
A scifi RPG set in a fantastical version of the solar system.
It uses a percentile skill-based system, with attributes POW,
FIT, AGI, LUCK and LEARN.
Abenteuer in Magira
Steffi Seipp
Dieter Steinseifer
Norbert Weiser
Harald Zubrod
1988
Abenteuerrunde GbR
"Adventures in Magira" -- a German-language fantasy RPG set in
the world of Magira novels by Hugh Walker. The game was
developed from a long-standing fan club of the fantasy work.
It uses a d20 based system, except for damage which uses Nd6.
Three attributes (strength, skill, and constitution) are
determined with d100 table which gives values from -1 to +3.
Modifiers for attributes, skill, and difficulty are added to
1d20, which must be at least 15 for success.
Abeo
Jennifer Reynolds
Chuck Lauer
2005
Insomnium Games
A modern horror RPG, set in the modern world where nightmares and
horrific fairy tale creatures can recruit or hunt humans. It
uses a simple skill-based system where action resolution uses
attribute + skill + a die roll versus difficulty, with the die type
varying. It includes a sanity system tied into the magic system
(feats called Pathos). A character has four Passion scores: Anguish,
Dread, Fury, and Yearning. The higher the total of the scores (called
Intensity), the more impressive feats of magic the character can do.
Aberrant
Justin R. Achilli
Andrew Bates
et al.
1999
White Wolf
The sci-fi superhero RPG (a "prequel" to <a href="GAME#trinity">
Trinity</a>) set in an alternate history's 2008 (unrelated to the
"World of Darkness"). An accident in 1998 flooded the world with
strange radiation that created superpowered "novas". It uses a
variant of the "Storyteller" system, introducing "mega-attributes" --
where rather than having strength higher than 5, you might have strength
of 3 and also "mega-strength" of 1. Mega-attributes add mega-dice to
your dice pool, which are rolled as normal but yield 2 successes if over
the target number (or 3 if a ten is rolled).
Ablaneda
Jose Carlos Dominguez
2014
Otherselves
A Spanish-language medieval fantasy game, based on geography and legends of the northern
Iberian Peninsula. The setting is an isolated country called Ablaneda, where humans
struggle against giant snakes, elves, demons, and more. The country has two primary cities,
the capital Castro de la Reina, and the commercial center Yerbosera. It uses variant
of a simple dice pool system called the xd6 system. Each character is defined by four
or five freeform phrases, that are assigned a number of d6. Resolution is by rolling
dice equal to the trait, where every 5 or 6 is a success.
Abney Park's Airship Pirates RPG
Peter Cakebread
Ken Walton
2011
Cubicle 7 Entertainment Limited
300
A post-apocalyptic steampunk roleplaying game, based on the songs
of band Abney Park. It is set in a Victorian-style future in the
year 2150, after a world-wide apocalypse in 1906 caused by time travel.
The world is dominated by a totalitarian government using clockwork
police, armored railroads, and airships. The default area is North
America, currently a wasteland with scattered nomads. The player
operate a steam-powered airships out of sky-cities such as Isla Aether
and High Tortuga, who furthermore have acquired a time travel device.
It uses a variant of the <a href="GAME#fuzion">Fuzion</a>
system. Character creation is limited point-based after picking
a background: Neobedouin, Neovictorian, or Skyfolk. Lower classes
are given more attribute points to balance their lack of money and
influence.
Abyss
Marco Pecota
Wes Johnson
1997
Global Games
An RPG set in the Hell of Dante's "Inferno", a spin-off of
the miniatures game <u>Inferno: Battles of the Abyss</u>. Players
roleplay demons, which begin as lowly sergeant class and
ultimately work for the Archfiends. It uses a dice pool system,
rolling (skill minus difficulty) d6's where any "6" indicates
success. It has an action-point based combat system. Character
creation is point-bought with templates.
A.C.E. Agents
Steve Savage
L. Lee Cerny
Walter H. Mytczynskyj
1992
Stellar Games
A humorous espionage RPG, in which an UNCLE-like espionage
organisation has to fund itself by selling the rights to films,
toys and comics describing its agents' exploits.
Aces & Eights
Jolly Blackburn
Brian Jelke
Steve Johansson
David Kenzer
Jennifer Kenzer
Mark Plemmons
2007
Kenzer & Company
400
A Wild West RPG using an original system, set in an alternate history
of the American West. Combat uses a "shot clock" with a transparent
cover and a silhouette of the target, with location determined by a
1d20 roll with modifiers and a card draw. The system also includes
roll-over percentile skill tests, where skills start at 100 and go
down to 5 for mastery.
Ácin Dambágin
Torbjørn Lien
1999
Lovehulen Spilldesign
A Norwegian-language fantasy RPG setting, in a world with no
elements from traditional fantasy. Ácin Dambágin
is "the land to the East, beyond the great ocean which no one
may cross. Dambágin is the land of the Guardian, eternally
illuminated by the light of the One. From here mankind is
guarded; from here history is changed; from here the Guardian one
day will return to the world to settle all things and destroy the
Enemy for ever. And then he will take mankind home to the
stars..."
Acquitane
Carl Smith
1980
Adversary Games
A fantasy-genre RPG, originally published as a setting for
D&D. The game apparently came in several books:
"Acquitane", "Red Book of Nal", and "Sword and Shield".
Action! System Core Rules
Mark Arsenault
Patrick Sweeney
Ross Winn
2002
Gold Rush Games
A universal RPG system, related to the earlier
<a href="GAME#fuzion">Fuzion</a> system. Action
resolution is attribute + skill + 3d6 vs difficulty. Character
creation is limited point-based, with a pool of attribute points
and a pool of character points (used for advantages, disadvantages,
and skills).
Action Castle!
Jared A. Sorensen
2009
Memento Mori Theatricks
A humorous mini-RPG intended to emulate old computer text adventure
games such as the Zork series - part of a series called Parsely Games.
The GM takes the role of the computer, responding to player requests
such as "Look key" with computer-like responses.
Active Exploits Diceless RPG
Special Edition
Brett M. Bernstein
2002
Deep7
158
A universal diceless system. The basic diceless rules are published
free, but the special edition is available 5.5x8.5 printed format
with additional rules and notes. Action resolution is based on
spending Luck, Discipline, and Revelation points. Skills 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.
Advanced Dungeons and Dragons
Gary Gygax
1978
TSR
2nd
David Cook
1989
The advanced version of the original fantasy role-playing game,
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">Dungeons & Dragons</a>.
This is the dominant RPG on the market and has hundreds of supplements
and adventures. It uses a class-based system with minimal
skills, most resolution being by case- or class-specific rules.
Character creation is random-roll, with level-based advancement.
A 3rd edition reverted to the title of just
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">Dungeons & Dragons</a>,
although it is not part of the separate D&D line.
Advanced Phantasm Adventures
Troy Christensen
1992
TC International
110
A medieval fantasy RPG.
Adventure!
Tori Bergquist
1985
self-published
A universal RPG system, using mechanics similar to
Chaosium's <a href="GAME#basic">Basic Roleplaying</a>:
attributes in the 2-20 range with percentile based skills. A
short vehicle design and combat system was included (by Russ Heller).
It includes basic stats on vehicles, weapons of old and new, and
a short spell and psionic system. The rulebook is 48 pages with
a plain tan cover, no cover art, and fannish interior art. It has
a print run of 400 copies.
Adventure!
Andrew Bates
Bruce Baugh
2001
White Wolf
This is a pulp-genre RPG set in an alternate version of the roaring 20's.
This is the third in the trilogy of games including
<a href="GAME#trinity">Trinity</a> and
<a href="GAME#aberrant">Aberrant</a>. This forms a prequel
to the other two, showing the roots of the Aeon Society which in the
future will change the world. It uses roughly the same variant of
the "Storyteller" system as the others in the trilogy. It includes
"Dramatic Editing" rules to represent the psychic luck of the PC's,
which allows the player to change storyline continuity for a cost
in inspiration points.
Adventure Maximum
Dennis McDonald
1992
WorldMaster Designs
160
2nd
1996
A self-published universal RPG system. Reviewed in Shadis
magazine #10 (mini-review) and #15.
Adventure Maximus
Francis Hogan
2014
Eden Studios
A fantasy RPG with a card-based system designed for children ages 8 and up. Character creation is
handled by putting down a race card, a class card, and an action card. Resolution uses custom
six-sided dice, where each die has three blank sides, one side show one sword, one side showing
two swords, and one side showing the Maximus symbol. Cards can also be used in adventure creation,
with a formatted sheet that starts the adventure by putting in a Map card, a Treasure card, and
a Creature card on the bottom row.
Adventure Quest: Jaern
Robert Blake
Daniel Lawrence
1991
Lafayette Simulations
A universal RPG system, including a fantasy setting with
sci-fi elements ("Jaern"). Jaern is an ocean planet that was shot
out of its orbit and eons later (its inhabitants protected by psi
shield and cryogenics) smashed through another planet
("Torandor") to take its place in that system.
Adventurer Conqueror King System
Alexander Macris
Tavis Allison
Greg Tito
2012
Autarch LLC
274
A variant of <a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a>
that draws from the Basic Set version - including combined race and class
and strict 3d6 attribute rolls. Attacks, saves, and proficiencies are
all recorded as the target number on 1d20, like "14+" (called "throws").
Resolution is by rolling 1d20 + modifiers compared to the throw number.
Advancement is level-based, but also divides into three categories
(adventurer, conqueror, and king) where the characters progress into
developing followers and territory.
The Adventurer's Handbook
Bob Albrecht
Greg Stafford
1984
Reston Publishing Company Inc.
208
A small-press fantasy-genre RPG intended as an introduction to
role-playing for beginning players. The cover shows a row of
young players with their fantasy selves floating above them -- with
similar features but medieval wardrobe. The system is a variant of
Chaosium's <a href="GAME#basic">Basic Roleplaying</a>.
It is an intentionally generic system with a pedantic approach,
which includes in the end a list of other RPGs and RPG companies
of the time, along with brief reviews of nine "major" ones.
Adventures in Delving
Vincent Diakuw
2004
Thousandpress
31
An electronically-published fantasy RPG of the pulp swords and
sorcery genre. It uses a simple step-die system with an emphasis
on description. Character creation includes selecting step dice
(d4 to d12) for attributes (Courageous, Wise, Mysterious, Solitary,
and Charming) as well as a stereotype (such as "Barbarian Warrior",
"Dashing Rogue", or "Arcane Student") which adds or subtracts
a Fit Die to the total when the stereotype applies to the action.
Adventures in Fantasy
Dave Arneson
Richard Snider
1979
Excalibur Games Inc.
2nd
1979
Adventure Games Incorporated
A medieval fantasy RPG. The system is class-based: warrior
or magic-user. Social standing has a heavy influence on character
creation. The first edition is 163 pages and included three books:
Book of Adventure, Book of Faery and Magic, and Book of Creatures
and Treasure, along with charts and dice.
Adventures in Oz
F. Douglas Wall
2010
F. Douglas Wall Publishing
131
A fantasy RPG set in the world of L. Frank Baum's Oz books, designed
for young players. It uses a simple system with seven traits:
Athletics, Awareness, Brains, Presence, Sneaking, and Wits.
Basic resolution is by rolling two six-sided dice against a trait,
with success if either is less than or equal to the trait. There
is a combat system, but no death in keeping with the background.
It also includes a simple magic system. Character creation is by
picking a template - such as Crafted Person (like the Scarecrow)
or Animal (like Toto or the Cowardly Lion). This is followed by
buying extra points, a friends list, and Oz points. Oz points are
gained in play by making friends, and spent to get a bonus to a roll
or receive help from friends.
Adventures in Science
Vincent Diakuw
2004
Thousandpress
28
An electronically-published pulp action RPG. It uses a simple step-die
system with an emphasis on description. Character creation includes
selecting step dice (d4 to d12) for attributes as well as a stereotype,
which adds or subtracts a Fit Die to the total when the stereotype
applies to the action.
The Adventures of Indiana Jones
David "Zeb" Cook
1984
TSR
A pulp-action RPG in the world of the "Indiana Jones" movies.
The 64-page rulebook concentrated on playing actual characters
from the movies. The boxed set included paper miniatures.
The Adventures of Luther Arkwright
James Brunton
1991
23rd Parallel Games
160
A UK alternate-timeline RPG based on the miniseries of comics by
Bryan Talbot. The titular hero is a man with the unique ability to
jump between parallel universes. He is recruited by a telepath named
Rose Wylde to become an agent of the parallel known as "zero-zero" -
whose stable position in the multiverse has allowed the development of
world peace. They fight an organization called the Disruptors who are
trying to destabilize the multiverse. The system is a percentile
skill-based system similar to Chaosium's
<a href="GAME#basic">Basic Roleplaying</a>.
Resolution uses a universal table that converts skill, difficulty and
a percentile roll into level of success from best (A) to least (E).
Character creation is random-roll, with different rolls for the
percentile stats. Strength is 4D10+20; Endurance is 4D10+30; Willpower
is 6D10+10; PSI-rating is a straight D100 roll; etc. The player adds
Intellect + Willpower + (age multiplied by ten) to get the number of
points to spend on skills. Some skills have a default, and some get a
First Point bonus (a bonus only if at least 1 point is spent on them).
Character generation includes the option for the GM to designate one
player character with a PSI ability, and for one player character to
have a Warrior Option that significantly boosts points.
Aegis
Alberto Tronchi
2011
Alephtar Games
A science fantasy RPG inspired by Japanese console RPGs. The player
characters are agents of an elite corp in charge of exploring the
ruins of a lost civilization - armed with energy guns, katanas,
spells, and ancient artifacts.
Aesia
Xavier Bottet
1992
self-published
A French-language space opera RPG, set in a galaxy controlled by
a high-tech Church.
Æternal Legends
Stewart Wilson
2007
Mob United Media
158
A modern magic RPG, set in a modern world with a Pocket Kingdom where
elves, dwarves, gnomes rub shoulders with witches and alchemists right
under the noses of a mundane population. One in twenty people is Aware
of magic, and a few are Legends who fight evil. It uses an original
system, the "Ready 2 Run" system. This is a dice pool system with
broad traits ("Aptitudes") like Soldier or Scientist. You roll a
number of d6s equal to Attribute + Aptitude, and every 1 or 2 is a
success.
Aftermath
Bob Charrette
Paul Hume
1981
FGU
A generic post-nuclear-apocalypse RPG, supporting various sub-genres
(mutants, survivalist, etc.). The system is a complex skill-based,
where action is resolved by rolling a d20 under (skill/5) or
(attribute/2). Character creation uses limited point allocation,
with some random rolls. Notably, besides standard attributes it
has "aptitudes" in skill categories: charismatic, combative,
communicative, esthetic, mechanical, natural, and scientific.
Combat is quite complex, with a two-page flowchart explaining
the combat sequence(!!). It uses basic to-hit, hit-location, and
damage rolls with armor subtracted -- but with many special-case
criticals.
After The Bomb RPG
Eric Wujcik
2001
Palladium Books
224
A post-apocalyptic RPG where anthropomorphic mutated animals rule the
world. This was formerly a supplement line for the
<a href="GAME#teenagemutantninjaturtles">
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles</a> RPG, but has been released
as a standalone RPG. It uses a variant of the
<a href="GAME#palladiumfantasy">Palladium System</a>,
with limited point-bought character creation (via "bio-energy").
Afterwars: Roleplaying in Post WWIII America
Timothy J. McFadden
1991
Stellar Games
A post-apocalyptic RPG, set in the U.S. 6 months after a large
nuclear, biological, conventional war with the Soviets. The
Russians manage to invade the U.S., with attendant resistance.
One unique feature is that "U-joints" occurred where nuclear
blasts met close together: creating gatewas to other dimensions.
It uses the system from <a href="GAME#expendables">Expendables</a>
by L. Lee Cerny and Walter H. Mytczenskyj. Character classes
are Mainstream, Military, and Fringe. Reviewed in White Wolf #33.
Against the Darkness: A Roleplaying Game of Vatican Horror and Conspiracy
Christopher A. Field
Daniel M. Brakhage
Vicki Potter
2006
Tabletop Adventures, LLC
68
A modern horror game where the PCs are an elite group of priests and
other personnel fighting demons, ghosts, and vampires. Character
types include Modern Templars, Treasure Seekers, Dispassionate Experts,
Sacred Hunters, Blessed Non-believers or others. Resolution is by
attribute rating + skill or miracle rating + resolution die vs.
target number. There are four attributes -- Corpus, Spiritus,
Mentus, Fidelis -- each rated from 1 to 7 as well as having a
designated resolution die: d4, d6, or d8. There are 12 skills
and 19 miracles, each with a base attribute.
Agent S.E.V.E.N.
Todd Downing
1999
Deep7
A very simple espionage mini-RPG published in electronic PDF format.
It uses a version of the "1PG" system, which (as its name implies) fits
on a single page. Resolution is rolling 1d6 and getting under attribute
or skill, where 1 is always success and 6 is always failure.
Agent X
Rob Stone
Sean Tisdale
Annette Tisdale
1999
Mind Interactive
A table-top and live-action espionage RPG. The PC's are
FBI, CIA, and NSA agents. The system uses a custom deck of
cards. Action resolution uses skill level minus difficulty
to find the number of cards to draw from the deck. Success is
determined by the number of success cards. Character creation is
by picking an agency template and adding point-bought skills.
The rules include essays on spy slang and surveillance.
Age of Chivalry
Marshall Rose
1978
Avant-Garde Simulations Perspectives
A medievel knights RPG, concentrating on a unique system
for combat, with a bare bones campaign system included.
The combat system involves cross referencing tables to
determine the modifiers to attacks based upon what combination
of attack and defense each combatant chooses. It also has a
jousting system simular to one in
<a href="GAME#chivalryandsorcery">Chivalry and
Sorcery</a>.
Age of Empire
Gareth-Michael Skarka
1996
Epitaph Studios
A fantasy RPG set in Victorian Europe with the addition of
wizards, mad scientists, and monsters (including demons, dragons,
elementals, lycanthropes, and even Martians). It uses a fairly
simple system with 3 attributes (Mind, Body, and Spirit), attribute
specialties, and various skills. Action resolution is by rolling
a number of d6's equal to attribute + skill, compared against a
number of dice rolled by the GM for difficulty. This has large
variation, which is intentional for a cinematic genre.
Age of Heroes - Adventure in High Fantasy
Brian Gleichman
2012
self-published
288
A detailed fantasy-genre system, using a percentile system.
Character creation is class-based with random-roll attributes and
additional point-bought traits. Players roll 1d100 on a table for
each of ten attributes, generating a score from 2 to 12 for each.
The game is self-published via
<a href="http://www.lulu.com/product/hardcover/age-of-heroes/18947387">Lulu.com</a>.
The Age of Phaedrus
Sean Bindel
Brian Fitzpatrick
1997
Moebius Adventures
A traditional fantasy RPG (with elves, dwarves, monsters, and
dungeons). It uses a mix of random-roll and allocated character
creation, and a pure skill-based system.
Age of Ruin
Clay Gibbons
1990
Cutting Edge Games
A post-apocalyptic RPG, set around 80 years after the a third
world war caused by lack of natural resources. The dominant weapon was
called the Red Death, a plague which killed by mutating the DNA
of the infected. If you survived, your children were mutants.
It uses a simple percentile attribute and skill-based system.
Includes a fast-playing vehicle combat system, and an
introductory mini- campaign/adventure. Reviewed in White Wolf #22.
Aggressio
Kristoffer Simonsson
1998
Point Blank Games
A Swedish-language modern technothriller RPG, set in
Los Angeles, California.
Agon
John Harper
2006
one.seven design
A competitive RPG set in a fantastic version of ancient Greece, similar
to the settings of the Iliad and the Odyssey. It uses a combat system
where the player holds dice in their right hand to represent attacks,
and in their left hand to represent defenses.
Agone
1st French
David Benoît
Sébastian Célerin
Mathieu Gaborit
Grégoire Laakman
Jean-Rémy Levin
Jean-Baptist Lullien
Stéphane Marsan
Xavier Spinat
1999
Multisim
1st English
2001
A French-language medieval fantasy RPG, set on an original
fantasy world: "Harmonde", by Mathieu Gaborit. The PC's are
"Inspirés" -- imbued with magical powers by the Muses to
fight the evil Masque which threatens the world. The PC's may be
humans as well as minotaurs, sprites, dwarves, ogres, and other
fantasy races. The system uses attribute + skill + 1d10 vs
difficulty.
A.I.
unknown
1993
Digest Group Publications
A science fantasy RPG -- never actually published. It was
announced in 1993 as the next project for DGP. The game was set
in a decayed future where Earth has been radically changed by
nanotechnology, machine intelligence, and genetic engineering
(attempting science <u>as</u> magic). The characters would be
explorers working for intelligent starships that have returned
home to find it inexplicably changed.
Albedo
Paul Kidd
Steve Gallacci
1988
Thoughts and Images (a subsidiary of TAGG)
2nd
1993
Chessex
Platinum Catalyst
2004
Sanguine Productions
A sci-fi RPG based on the comic book series "Albedo,
Anthropomorphics" by Steve Gallacci. It is a hard-science
starfaring setting, with the twist that the characters are
anthropomorphic animals (from 1 of 163 species).
Albion: Celtesque fantasy roleplaying after the Shrug
Tim Gray
2002
Silver Branch Games
A post-apocalyptic fantasy RPG set in Britain after a rapid climate
change (known as The Shrug), social upheaval, and the return of
magic to the world. Various factions have arisen with conflicting
beliefs in magic and technology. In Britain the Order of Druids
was rebuilt, and spirits from the Otherworlds of Annwn and Abred
have returned. It uses a dice-pool system (the LODE system), with
action resolution based on rolling a number of d6's based on
skill + modifiers, where any result of 4-6 indicates a success.
Character creation is limited-point based (spending points on
Attributes, Skills, and Advantages) plus a selection of template.
Aletheia
Lee Foster
Monica Valentinelli
Werner Hager
2007
Abstract Nova Entertainment
178
A modern-day occult RPG, where the player characters are members of
the Seven Dogs Society, a detailed organization that investigates
paranormal occurrences throughout the world with the belief that a
single truth underlies everything. It uses a simple dice pools system
where you gain automatic successes equal to your level in a relevant
occupation or extracurricular skill, then roll d6s equal to your
relevant attribute where every 5 or 6 is an additional victory. A
will point may be spent to roll an additional 1d6.
Character creation is limited point-buy, with attribute points for
the four attributes (fitness, awareness, personality and reason --
rated 1 to 5); occupation points for skills; and supplemental points
that can be used to buy powers as well as to buy increased attributes,
addition descriptors, occupations and extracurricular skills. The
nine powers are presque vu (intuition), deja visite (orientation),
remote viewing, X-ray vision, postcognition, precognition, ghosting
(insubstantiality), teleportation, and time travel.
Alice - Single Die Roleplaying System
M. Redwood
D. Freegard
V. Piper
P. Scott
D. Barton
2003
Alice RPS
250
A complete RPG, focused on modern-day settings but designed for use
in most genres with a little more work. It uses a simple skill-based
system, rolling under Core Skill + Aptitude + Focus + modifiers
on 1d20. Character creation is open point-based, allowing spending
on the 16 different broad Core Skills (such as Athletics), the Aptitudes
(narrower skills such as Throw, Melee, Unarmed, and Acrobatics), and
Focuses (specializations).
Alienoïds
Solo
1992
Éditions de la Lune-Sang
A French-language alien-invasion RPG, set in the modern world
where horrific aliens have just invaded -- with a rather
tongue-in-cheek tone.
Aliens
Barry Nakazano
David McKenzie
1990
Leading Edge
A sci-fi action RPG based on the movie "Aliens". It uses an
simplified version of the combat rules in
<a href="GAME#phoenixcommand">Phoenix Command</a>,
although it is still quite complex.
Alien Summit
Annie Rush
2004
Wicked Dead Brewing Company
A sci-fi mini-RPG about negotiation between four alien races using
Earth as neutral territory. It is partly live-action format, as the
PCs are aliens in human guise similar to the players who are sitting
around a room and discussing problems. Character creation is based
on random draw of six playing cards: one determines race, while five
others define personality Quirks. Players can trade cards back to
the dealer to add some control. The core rules include descriptions
of the four races mainly in terms of personalities and beliefs.
Action is primarily discussion between the players. The rules
include special powers and limited combat rules, all of which are
diceless, spending certain tokens for effects.
All-Adventure Action Roleplay Game!
Gareth Jones
unknown, pre-1991
Taupe Games
A small-press universal RPG (AAARG!) with an emphasis on pulp
or swashbuckling cinematic action. The rulebook is 54 pages (A4
size) staple-bound, and includes a general bestiary, NPC
archetypes, campaign ideas, and a simple weapons chart.
Action resolution is a d20 roll modified by skill, attributes,
etc. Character creation is cooperative rather than point-based
or rolled -- the player and GM simply assign stats based on the
role. It has 8 attributes (Brain, Muscle, Heart, Soul, Legs,
Hands, Senses, and Mouth) rated 1-10, along with Skills,
Passions, Hobbies, and Interests.
All Flesh Must Be Eaten
Albert Bruno III
C.J. Carella
Richard Oaken
M. Alexander Jurkat
George Vasilakos
1999
Eden Studios
A zombie-horror RPG, covering a variety of possible campaign
settings. There are notes on creating different types of
zombies. The core book presents eleven separate campaign
concepts, each with distinct zombie stats, background info and
adventure seeds. These range from modern-day Romero-inspired reanimation
to alien invasion, WWII, medieval times, post-apocalyptic zombies,
and a Biblical apocalypse. It uses the skill-based "Unisystem"
from <a href="GAME#witchcraft">Witchcraft</a>, with
open point-based character creation and resolution by stat+d10
vs difficulty. There are three basic character types: normal
civilians, survival specialists, and the "inspired" who have
magic-like abilities.
All-for-one Régime Diabolique
Paul Wade-Williams
2010
Triple Ace Games
A swashbuckling/horror RPG set in France of 1636, the time of
The Count of Monte Cristo and The Three Musketeers, with the addition
of horror elements including black magicians, secret societies, and
demons. The player characters are King's musketeers, fighting the
corrupt nobility and their diabolic creations, agents of Cardinal
Richelieu, and other enemies of the throne. It uses a variant of
the "Ubiquity system" also used by
<a href="GAME#hollowearthexpedition">Hollow Earth Expedition</a>.
All Star Wrestling
Paul Schulze
1991
Afterthought Images
A professional wrestling RPG.
Alma Mater
Steve Davis
Andrew Warden
1982
Oracle Games
A grossly humorous RPG about high-school students of anarchic bent at a
generic high-school setting, "Central High". The cover by Erol Otus
shows juvenile delinquents gathered at the front door of their high
school, with drug-dealing and fornication in evidence. The inside cover
is a map of Central High School. The system is skill-based. Character
creation is class-based with random-roll attributes. You roll 7d10
and assign one die to each of seven attributes: Strength, Coordination,
Appearance, Intelligence, Learning Drive, Courage, Willpower, and
Constitution. You pick one of seven classes: Average Kid, Brain,
Cheerleader, Criminal, Jock, Tough, and Loser. You then generate your
social level based upon your class and a d10 roll, which in turn
generates your starting money and allowance. Your age (from 13 to 17)
and birthday are then generated. You get attribute increases when you
turn 16, 17 and 18. You then randomly generate problems, ranging from
"Moderate Acne" to phobias and so forth, with increased problems for
lower Appearance. You have initial skills based on class, including
high-school specific skills such as Cheating, Drinking, Studying, and
Crudeness. The core book includes rules for activities ranging from
drug use, animal reactions, and dealing with the contents of the chem
lab to pregnancy. Players score points for Social Success (for
dating, partying, etc.), Academic Success (for grades), and General
Success (including miscellaneous such as successful crimes for the
Criminal and Tough classes). The game includes an explicit victory
condition that whoever has the most Success Points after four years of
game time wins the campaign.
Alpha Omega
David Carter
Earl Fischl
2008
Mind Storm Labs
A post-apocalyptic science fantasy game, set on Earth in the year 2280,
after a series of natural disasters as well as biological and nuclear
war have laid waste to the planet. Magic has been rediscovered, monsters
roam the wastelands, and two alien races (Nephilim and Grigori) resembling
angels and demons are beginning a perennial war. It uses an original
system, that involves rolling six dice of types determined by attribute
rank. For example, an attribute of 18 has a pool of 3d6 + 3d4.
Resolution is by adding the total from the dice pool and skill rank,
compared to difficulty level. Each combat turn is divided into six
phases, and the six dice from the pool must be split among the phases
a character is allowed to act in. Character creation is open point-based,
spending 500 points on attributes, skills, advantages, and disadvantages
over a base species template.
ALSHARD (アルシャード)
Jun'ichi Inoue
2002
F.E.A.R.
fortissimo
2005
F.E.A.R.
A Japanese-language fantasy RPG, set in a humorous fantasy world
named Midgard inhabited by figures from Norse mythology (like Odin
or Thor), though most of the gods died in Ragnarok. It is a mixed
fantasy world with guns, motorcycles, robots, androids, airships,
tanks, or other mechanical gadgets. The player characters are called
Questers, and possess a crystal (called Shard) of ancient gods that
grants divine powers. The Questers seek an ideal world Asgard.
They are opposed by various evils, including a theocracy, the
Wahres Reich (German for the Authentic Empire), who worship a
god of machinery known as "Deus Ex Machina".
Alter Ego
Patrick Philip
Michel Philip
Eric Lautier
Bernard Jullion
Jean-René Jullion
1989
D3 Éditions
A French-language sci-fi RPG set in the 27th century. The name comes
from a clan (Alter-Egos) of genetically engineered, telepathic twins
who always operate together. Each pair also has an intelligent
extraterrestrial companion animal (a gernaute), resembling a gerbil.
Other clans include the argo nautes (criminals), astro nautes (pilots),
cyber nautes (cybernetic technicians), docto nautes (NPC scientists),
interco nautes (soldiers), secto nautes (missionaries), techno nautes
(trade union of miscellaneous professionals). It uses a simple
percentile skill-based system, including brief rules for robots and
starships.
Alternatives 2.0
unknown
1992
Presses Alternatives
A French-language universal system.
Alternity
Bill Slavicsek
Richard Baker
1998
TSR
A generic science-fiction RPG. It uses a skill-based system
with restrictive professions (similar to <a href="GAME#rolemaster">
Rolemaster</a>). Character creation is by limited point-buying,
with 5 classes. The resolution is standard roll d20 under
attribute+skill, with a twist. Rather than fixed modifiers, the
roll is modified by a second step-die which varies (i.e. -d4,
+d4, +d6, +d8, etc.). Experience is divided into levels, but
experience can be divided freely among skills. It also covers
aliens (5 types), starships, psionics, mutations, and equipment
to varying degrees. <br>
Settings include "Star*Drive"; "Dark*Matter" (conspiracy); and
"Gamma World" (based on the earlier game).
Altus Adventum
Roderic Waibel
2004
Sacrosanct Games Ent.
154
An electronically-published "retro-style" 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). Wounds are scaled
in four steps. The full combat system includes a speed point systems
as well as maneuvers such as charging, power attacks, critical hits,
encumbrance, poison and disease, and fatigue. It includes a
magic system with four types (Rune, Totem, Channeling, and Mental).
Character creation involves percentile attributes and percentile
non-combat skills, as well as selecting an optional guild occupation
including warrior, knight, wizard, paladin, rogue, assassin,
and druid. The core rules also includes over 100 monsters.
Amazing Engine
David "Zeb" Cook
Karen S. Boomgarden
Michele Carter
1993
TSR
A minimalist generic system from TSR. It uses a simple percentile
system where the players generate a "core concept" with 4
attributes (Physique/ Intellect/ Spirit/ Influence), which is
fleshed out when it was adapted to a given setting. Two
sub-attributes are then specified for each attribute, and skills
are bought. Actions are resolved by rolling percentile dice
under skill. Degree of success is shown by the "ones" digit of
the roll: the lower, the better. <br>
The 19-page system was included with many universebooks,
including: "For Faerie Queen and Country" (Victorian Earth +
faerie), "Bughunters", "The Galactos Barrier" (Space Opera),
"Kromosome" (cyberpunk + genetics), "Magitech", "The Once and
Future King" (Arthurian science fantasy), "Tabloid!" (Earth where
tabloids are true), and "Metamorphosis Alpha to Omega" (a remake
of the <a href="GAME#metamorphosisalpha">classic game</a>:
science fantasy on a generation starship).
Amber Diceless Role-playing
Eric Wujcik
1991
Phage Press
A diceless RPG based on the novels by Roger Zelazny. The system
makes action resolution entirely within GM discretion, with
various guidelines given. Character creation is via a point
system with a unique auction where players compete with each
other to have the highest of each of the 4 attributes. Detailed
writeups are given for many characters from the series.
Ammo
Mirko Caruccio
Piero Cioni
Barbara Chies
1992
Editore Planetario
An Italian-language modern-day/sci-fi action RPG, inspired
by manga comics such as "Ghost in the Shell" and "Gundam".
Amoeba
Risto J. Hieta
Hans Zenjuga
1999
Artic Ranger Production
A small-press Finnish-language comedy RPG in which the PC's are
single-celled creatures. The adventures can't be too difficult --
try to slide forward some inches and get some food, for example.
Analaya, tormenta de arena
Miguel Angel Friginal
Jose Luis Laviña
1993
Larshiot
A Spanish-language science fantasy RPG. It is set on Arturo, a planet
orbitting the far Evenea 304, a dying red giant sun. Human beings have
been there for millions of years, but only very ancient ruinous cities
show that they once had advanced technology. The most advanced
civilizations are barely above the medieval level. It uses a
narrative system, which allows gaming without a GM -- instead, each
player the narrator by turns. It includes a magic system not based in
spell lists.
Anarki
Jon Sagberg
unknown
unknown
A small-press Norwegian-language RPG. It is a universal system
with two minimal settings: one in the 4th century, and one in a
cyberpunk future. It includes a number of tongue-in-cheek
tables (such as random sexual orientation including "fish").
It includes a magic system with an extensive list of spells.
Ancient Odysseys: Treasure Awaits!
Brett Bernstein
2010
Precis Intermedia Games
A simple medieval fantasy game with a skill based system, intended as
a quick introductory game that players can start playing within ten
minutes, that focuses on dungeon crawling. Player characters are one
of four races (human, elf, dwarf, or hobling) - and one of three
vocations (rogue, warrior, or wizard). There are three attributes
(Fitness, Awareness, and Reasoning) and about 15 skills. Resolution
is by rolling 1d6 and adding attribute and skill versus a difficulty
number. It comes in a boxed set with three booklets.
Angel
C.J. Carella
2003
Eden Studios
A modern-day monster-fighting RPG based on the U.S. television series,
the spin-off from Buffy the Vampire Slayer set in modern-day Los Angeles.
It uses a variant of the "Cinematic Unisystem" which was originally
designed for the closely related
<a href="GAME#buffythevampireslayer">
Buffy the Vampire Slayer RPG</a>. The Angel rules add more
detail on various demons as player characters, as well as detailed
rules for organizations, and some varied options in ads/disads and
combat maneuvers to fit the series.
Angeli
Michael Deflize
Rainer "Blum" Wagner
1993
Astra Poesis
A German-language fantasy horror RPG about the eternal fight
between angels and demons. PC's can be almost any intelligent
creature, though. Sample character templates include a dog,
ghosts, golems, and ordinary humans as well as demons and
angels.
Angeli e Demoni
Antonio Sottocasa
Sergio Giovannini
Massimo Ghirardi
Davide Tortosa
Giacomo Sottocasa
1997
Rose and Poison
An Italian-language modern-day magic RPG, where PC's take the
roles of angels and demons who fight on Earth to control the
souls of mankind. Supplements include the adventures
"Christmas with the devil", "Le maschere del diavolo",
and "Enchersi"; a GM's screen; and an expansion book
"Anno secondo", with new character classes and rules for
live role-playing.
Anima: Beyond Fantasy RPG
1st Spanish
Carlos B. García Aparicio
2005
Edge Entertainment
1st English
2008
Fantasy Flight Games
320
2nd Spanish
2010
Edge Entertainment
A fantasy genre RPG influenced by Japanese anime themes. It uses
an involved system similar to the
<a href="GAME#rolemaster">Rolemaster</a> mechanics.
Characters creation uses races, classes and levels. Attributes are
random-roll, while other options are limited point-bought.
Resolution uses 1d100 + skill vs difficulty, though there are
also attribute checks done as rolling 1d10 under attribute.
Animonde
Croc
1988
Siroz / Ideojeux
A French-language non-violent fantasy RPG, set in a fairly
idyllic fantasy world with no metal where humans and animals live
in harmony. Technology is largely done through symbiosis with
various animals. Inspired by "La Planete Oubliee" by
M. Leinster. The system is derived from <a href="GAME#bitume">
Bitume</a>. There are 10 attributes with point-bought skills.
Action resolution is mostly percentile, and includes mechanics
for social relations and intimidation (since violence is rare).
ANKH - Adventurers of the North - Kalevala Heroes
Pasi Janhunen
1988
Nelostuote KY
A Finnish-language fantasy RPG nominally set in Iron Age Finland, but
very similar to <a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a>.
It comes in a boxed set with two booklets (one for the player, another
for the game master) and one quick adventure for a beginner GM.
The boxed set includes a bag of dice (d4 through d20).
Annalise: Stories of pain, hunger and redemption
Nathan Paoletta
2008
Hamsterprophet Productions
A GMless storytelling game about vampires - where the player characters
human characters who are to be the victims, hunters and tools of
the Vampire. Each player takes turn being "Active Player,"
"Scene Guide" and "Audience". It has a system including tokens
and dice, where die rolls are used for Achievements and Consequences.
Character creation is by defining a Vulnerability and a Secret.
Anno Domini
Piia Makkonen
Pasi Silander
1995
SLS/FELM
A Finnish-language Biblical RPG set in the New Testament era,
role-playing missionaries of St. Paul. It uses a live-action system.
Anno Domini: Adventus Averni ad Terram
Juan Antonio Huerta Domínguez
Manuel Sueiro
Antonio Alvarez de Morales
2000
Libros Ucronía S.L.
360
Characters play the role of pious believers of the three mayor faiths
(Judaism, Christianity, and Islam) after year 1000 A.D., when hordes
of evil invaded the Earth and conquered it. The player characters
are fighting back against the hordes, with each faith having special
gifts and possibilities for miracles. It uses a dice pool system,
rolling a number of d10s equal to skill, where each roll under
attribute is considered a success. In addition, there is a special
Die of Justice ("Dado del Juicio") which has special results.
Character creation is point-based, with characters divided into
three categories: common people ("Gente Común"),
righteous ("Justos y Cabalistas"), and the Chosen ("Elegidos ").
It uses triangular costs (i.e. level 3 costs 6 points = 1+2+3).
Aphalon: Ksieżycowe Ostrze
Arkadiusz Mielczarek
Dariusz Tarka
1995
Multimedium
A Polish-language fantasy RPG set in a typical fantasy world.
The title translates as "Aphalon: the Moonblade". It uses a
complex rules system.
Apocalypse Prevention, Inc.
Eloy Lasanta
2008
Third Eye Games
184
A modern-day horror RPG, set in a world where demons from various
dimensions secretly live among us. The player characters are agents
of an organization (Apocalypse Prevention, Inc.) that monitors them
and arrests those that break the law. Agents include various other
races as well as human: Burners, Changelings, Lochs (fish people),
Spectrals, Taylari (vampires), and Wolf People. The game uses its
own system, the Dynamic Gaming System (DGS). The core mechanic is
1d20 + Attribute + Skill vs. a Target Number of 10, 20, 30, or 40.
Character creation is by picking race as well as passion (which provide
experience bonuses), limited point-buy of attributes and skills,
along with bonus points usable for Gifts, and possibly more from
taking Drawbacks. The rules include a magic system divided into
18 Paths (types) and 3 Circles (power levels). Each spell has a
mana cost, where mana points come from converting a character's Stamina.
Apocalypse World
D. Vincent Baker
2010
Lumpley Games
A post-apocalyptic RPG, set about 50 years after an devastating apocalypse
though no one really knows what happened or why. The world is a lawless
place ruled by gangs well supplied with guns, ammunition, and gasoline.
There is also a psychic maelstrom that either came from or caused the
apocalypse. Character creation is by choosing and customizing one of
11 playbooks: Angel, Battlebabe, Brainer, Chopper, Driver, Gunlugger,
Hardholder, Hocus, Operator, Savvyhead, or Skinner. Resolution is by
rolling 2d6 + attribute, where 7-9 is a limited success and 10+ is a
full success. Each playbook has a number of customized moves, including
combat and non-combat options.
Apocrypha
Barbara J. Webb
Heather Watson
2000
Frontiers Design
A fantasy RPG set on an original world. Choosing from the
11 original races and 11 religions determines the styles of magic and
the advancement of technology to which a PC has easy access. The
races range from pure energy beings to humanoid saurians. The
system is 3d6-based and focuses on detailed character creation
but simplicity in play.
Apokryph: le dernier Cantique
Sofiène Boumaza
2003
Scriptorium
http://lescriptorium.over-blog.com/
http://apokryph.free.fr
198
A French-language modern day occult horror RPG, set in the Vatican.
The PCs are generally members of the Vatican, from five key orders:
Augustine, Dominican, Franciscan, Jesuit, and Carmelite. They are
facing a possible end of the world coming, and various conspiracies
and cults are working towards that -- both within the church and outside
it. It uses a percentile skill-based system. Character creation is
limited point-buy attributes and skills, with the chosen order giving
advantages and obligations to the character, as well as a privileged
attribute. There are 53 points to split among nine attributes rated
1 to 10 (Intelligence, Will, Education, Force, Memory, Charisma,
Dexterity, Constitution and Perception). Then there are 450 points
to distribute among the percentile skills. There are also three
gauges: Mystique (perception of the world), Faith, and Vitality.
The core rulebook includes background on the Vatican, opponents, and
an introductory adventure ("The Conscience of Saint Pierre").
Aquelarre
Ricard Ibáñez
1990
Joc Internacional
2nd
1999
La Caja de Pandora
3rd
Ricard Ibáñez
Antonio Polo
2011
Nosolorol
536
A Spanish-language RPG set in the Spanish middle ages. It was
one of the first RPGs published in Spain, and has numerous
supplements. It uses a percentile skill-based system, with a
table of costs to raise skills. It has a luck mechanic where you
declare that you are using luck before rolling. If you succeed,
you use 1 luck point. If you fail by less than your luck total,
you pay enough to succeed. If you fail by more than your luck
total you fail. It also has an rationality/irrationality stat.
Higher rationality means you are more resistant to magic but less
able to use magic. Rationality is reduced by exposure to magic.
Character creation for the original edition used random-roll
attributes. The third edition simplified combat and added a
point-buy character creation method, as well as 44 character
classes.
Arcane Codex
Saskia Naescher
Alexander Junk
2002
Nackter Stahl
A German-language dark fantasy RPG. It is set in a world called
Kreijor, which mixes various traditional high fantasy elements
including Roman-esque empires, Northern barbarians, orcs, trolls,
high elves, wood elves, dark elves, and so forth. The system
emphasizes heroic epic action, cinematic combat, and a magic-rich
setting. Action resolution uses stat + 2d10 vs difficulty.
Character creation is point-based.
The Archaereon Game System
Mage
Wilf K. Backhaus
1980
Archaereon Games Ltd.
Warrior
Wilf K. Backhaus
Jan Vrapcenak
Richard Fietz
1981
A medieval fantasy RPG based on feudal Europe -- growing out of a
<a href="GAME#chivalryandsorcery">Chivalry & Sorcery</a>)
campaign in the world of "Arden". It was published as a magic
system with mage character creation, and a combat system with
warrior creation.
Archangels: In the Beginning
Evangelos Hugo Paliatseas
2004
Plot Device
62
A freeform Live Action Role Playing (LARP) event game using a token
system, set at the dawn of time. The players portray sixteen parts of
the mind of God -- Gabriel, Michael, Uriel, Samael, Azrael, and more.
Described as a mix of "divine power, infinite possibility, and
boundless ego".
Archetype
James Terbrack
2010
self-published
A fantasy rpg using a system based on the Tarot deck in place of dice.
It is set in a dark fantasy world where humanity is making its last
stand against monsters. The player characters are working for a group
called Archetype that infuses humans with traits from monsters.
Character creation includes numeric attributes along with associated
Key Words. For example, Physical could have key words Condition,
Grace, and Strength. Skills list these Key words. If you have the
skill's Key Word in your attribute then your skill is aided by your
attribute. Resolution works by making a number of draws from the
tarot deck equal to your skill (aided or not), where each card over
the difficulty (1-14) is a success. Major arcana cards are used in the
magic system.
Arduin Adventure
David A. Hargrave
1981
Grimoire Games
2nd
1981
Dragon Tree Press
The Compleat Arduin
David A. Hargrave
Mark Schynert
1992
Grimoire Games
A medieval fantasy RPG based on <u>The Arduin Grimoire</u>
(Vols I, II, and III), which is a supplement for D&D and an
outgrowth of Hargrave's long-running campaign. The system is
essentially a variant of D&D with redefined races, classes,
and other rules. Mages cast memorized spells, while priests have
a ritual system. The revised version ("The Compleat Arduin")
includes 20 distinct races, new rules, comprehensive equipment lists.
Argyle & Crew - Adventure in the Land of Skcos
Benjamin Gerber
2011
Troll in the Corner
A collaborative storytelling adventure for both kids and adults.
Players take a sock and craft it to built their character.
There is a GM ("Guide") who then takes them through simple quests,
such as searching for a specific item throughout the home, where
each clue leads to the next until someone accomplishes the
requirements. The basic rules are guidelines like improv, such
as "There is only yes" or the optional "Yes, but..." method.
There are also advanced rules more like traditional RPGs, with
numbered stats and d6 rolls for resolution.
Aria: Canticle of the Monomyth
Christian S. Moore
Owen M. Seyler
1994
Last Unicorn
A generic system published in three books ("Canticle", "Worlds",
"Role-playing"), emphasizing GM or cooperating world design. The
character creation is a somewhat complex point system. Action
resolution is simple in principle (d10+modifiers vs difficulty),
but with a host of modifiers.
Armageddon: The End Times
C. J. Carella
1997
Myrmidon
2nd
1999
Eden Studios
A near-future horror RPG where the world is at war with the
hi-tech Church of Revelations, which worships an alien entity so
horrific that Heaven, Hell, and even old pagan gods have openly
joined in the battle against it. It uses the "Unisystem" from
<a href="GAME#witchcraft">Witchcraft</a>, which is a simple
skill based system: skill+attribute+1d10 vs difficulty. The editing
and layout have some problems, however (1st edition).
Armageddon 2089 Roleplaying Game
Ian Sturrock
2003
Mongoose Publishing
304 hardback
A near-future sci-fi RPG concentrating on mek-based warfare and the
mercenary/corporate companies who use them. It is set in a future
where, in 2089, the world faces a devastating war between the United
States of America and the European Federation. The PCs are
mercernaries who own "WarMeks" -- human-shaped combat robots.
This uses a variant of of the D20 System from third edition
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">Dungeons & Dragons</a>,
with many additions for futuristic Mek combat. The rules include
a system for generating the mercernary company as well as
individual characters.
Armageddon 2092 - Mars
Sándor Szigeti
1995
Bíborhold Budapest
A Hungarian-language sci-fi RPG.
Armored Trooper VOTOMS
Tim Eldred
Paul Sudlow
Mike Pondsmith
Benjamin Wright
1998
R Talsorian
A sci-fi RPG based on the Japanese anime series, set in the
far-future featuring mecha combat and over-the-top action. It
uses the <a href="GAME#fuzion">Fuzion</a> system (a mix of RTG's
Interlock and Hero's Champions).
Michael T. Desing's Army Ants: The Roleplaying Game
Michael T. Desing
1999
Teddy Bear Press
2nd
2001
3rd
2006
88
An anthropomorphic-animals RPG of playing ants, beetles,
crickets, and/or ladybugs engaged with nefarious bees, wasps,
spiders, stinkbugs, and other nasties. Warfare takes place in
your own backyard (or other nearby plot of land), but uses
miniature machineguns, tanks, etc. The system uses roll (based
on attribute and skill) vs target number. It has random-roll,
class-based character creation. Advancement is level-based.
Army of Darkness Roleplaying Game
Shane Lacy Hensley
2005
Eden Studios
A darkly humorous fantasy RPG based on the 1993 Sam Raimi film,
about modern-day misfits thrown into Earth's past with hordes of
undead to fight. There is a selection of settings from ancient
Sumeria to pulp era. Character archetypes include an archeologist,
a swashbuckler, a gunslinger, a reporter, and a game designer (!).
It uses the Cinematic Unisystem -- a variant of the Unisystem
(originally from <a href="GAME#witchcraft">Witchcraft</a>)
developed for the <a href="GAME#buffythevampireslayer">
Buffy the Vampire Slayer RPG</a>.
Arrowflight: The Edge of Fantasy
Todd Downing
Ron Dugdale
2002
Deep7
192
An epic fantasy genre RPG, set in the Empire of Corvel where the
King has just been assassinated. The system handles action resolution
using a dice-pool system, rolling d6's equal to attribute against a
target number based on skill. Character creation is point-bought
attributes and skills.
Arsenal of Heaven
Tim Gray
2008
Silver Branch Games
An RPG of modern supernatural fantasy, based around a minimalist
dice pool system called the NUGGET rules. The player characters are
modern people who have acquired the power items of ancient mythic
figures like Thor's hammer, Monkey's wishing staff, or the sandals
of Hermes. They are in conflict with shape-twisted "demons" from
outside our world as well as other obstacles. Resolution calls
for rolling a number of base dice for difficulty (2, 0, or -2),
and adding dice for attribute (rated 0-2) and skill (rated 0-4).
Character creation is limited point-based.
Ars Magica
Jonathan Tweet
Mark Rein•Hagen
1987
Lion Rampant
2nd
1989
156
3rd
Ken Cliffe
Mark Rein•Hagen
1992
White Wolf
4th
Jeff Tinball
John Nephew
1996
Atlas Games
5th
David Chart
2004
Atlas Games
An RPG set in "Mythic Europe" where hermetic magi work secretly
in hidden covenants. The system is fairly simple: attribute +
skill + 1d10, but the main rules are in the innovative magic
system. The magic works by a "noun + verb" system. Magi have
ratings in 10 "Forms" (nouns) and 5 "Arts" (verbs), given in
Latin as fits the setting. Any spell corresponds to a noun/verb
combination (like "Creo Ignem" meaning "Create Fire"). Resolving
a spell means comparing (Form rating) + (Art rating) + 1d10 vs
level of difficulty.
Artesia: Adventures in the Known World
Mark Smylie
2005
Archaia Studios Press
A fantasy RPG set in an alternate history 15th century Europe where
monotheism is not dominant, based on the Artesia series of comic books
written and illustrated by Mark Smylie. It uses a variant of the
<a href="GAME#fuzion">Fuzion</a> system with a certain
amount of tailoring for the specific genre.
Ascendancy - Rogue Marshall
Tim Westhaven
2012
Broken Tower
A dark fantasy RPG using the "FateStorm Virtual Reality System (VRS)".
It is set in Ashendrya, The Endless City, where industrial cabals and
cults hold power - and other dangers include gangs, serial killers, and
mad inventors.
a|state
Malcolm Craig
2004
Contested Ground Studios
A dark science fantasy RPG set in a place known only as "The City".
It has advanced technology but also is plagued by the remnants of
a magical cataclysm from a thousand years ago 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.
Astonishing Swordsmen & Sorcerers of Hyperborea
Jeffrey Talanian
2012
North Wind Adventures
A variant of the original
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a> game,
part of the "Old School Renaissance", published under the Open Game
License with a focus on emulating the weird fantasy genre of Robert
E. Howard, Clark Ashton Smith, and H.P. Lovecraft. There are no
demi-human races, but only human races such as Vikings, Kimmerians,
Amazons, Picts, Kelts, Atlanteans and Hyperboreans. There are also
many subclasses including Berserker, Barbarian, Warlock, Witch,
Priest, Pyromancer, Bard, Assassin, Ranger, Druid, Shaman and Scout.
The core mechanics are changed to streamline some resolution - such
as generalizing the d6 roll for open doors to any moderate physical
task, or the percentile roll for bend bars to any extraordinary tasks.
However, there is still no universal resolution mechanic or skill
system.
Astra
Risto J. Hieta
Hans Zenjuga
Ari Tukiainen
unknown
ACE-Pelit OY
A Finnish-language horror RPG.
Astrobirdz RPG
James M. Ward
2008
Bill Cobb Produtions, Inc.
A humorous sci-fi RPG about anthropomorphic birds that fly on surfboards
in space, based on a related card game. It was briefly published as a
boxed set including Player's Guide, Referee's Guide, and Birdznest
Nebula Guide.
Asylum
Aaron Rosenberg
1997
Clockworks Games
A horror game set 150 years in the future where everyone is
insane after an biological disaster that darkened the skies with
mutant spores. The majority of the world's population lives in
Wards: city-sized secure areas where the population of inmates is
fed, watched, and treated by the Warden. The mechanics are a
simple skill-based system, which uses colored marbles instead of
dice: draw out two marbles from a bag of 10 (2 each of 5
colors). The colors map onto numbers 1-5, but for various charts
the individual colors matter. It uses point-based character
generation.
Athanor
Pierre Rosenthal
1989
Siroz / Ideojeux
A French-language sci-fi RPG. It is set in a future Earth where
a deadly mutagene agent created several very distinct ecosystems
-- so different that only through mutations can people hope to
survive traveling.
The Atlantean Trilogy: The Arcanum, The Lexicon, The Bestiary
Stephan Michael Sechi
Vernie Taylor
1980
Bard Games
A traditional fantasy game set in Atlantis of a mythic
antedeluvian age. It uses a class- and level-based system using
d20 and d100, similar to D&D in that there is no universal
mechanic. There is a skill system, implemented as minor binary
advantages (i.e. you either have a skill or you on't). Character
creation is limited point-based, but dominated by race and class.
It includes a distinct magic system, divided into Mysticism, Black
Magic, High Magic, Low Magic, Divine Magic, Elemental Magic,
Sorcery, and Enchantment.
Atlantis. Anio 2213
Inmaculada Flórez
Alejandro Fresno
Mario Grande
2001
Asociacion Juvenil de Interpretacion Ludica de Leon
A Spanish-language post-apocalyptic RPG. The setting is a world
where civilization survives only in submarine cities. Terrestrial
humans were killed during an alien invasion. Now, after the aliens
have fled, terrestial lands are wild, dangerous, and unexplored.
Atlantis: The Second Age
Scott Agnew
2005
Morrigan Press
A traditional fantasy game set in Atlantis of a mythic
antedeluvian age, an adaptation of the 1980
from <a href="GAME#atlanteantrilogy">Atlantean Trilogy</a>
from Bard Games.
Atomic Highway - Post Apocalyptic Roleplaying
Colin Chapman
2009
Radioactive Ape Designs
A post-apocalyptic RPG using the "V6 Engine" as its system.
Attack of the Humans
Devin Durham
1990
Rapport Games
A humorous horror-genre combat system / RPG based on "B-" horror
movies, fighting alien brain men, evil stuffed toys, blind
telepathic albindo sewer 'gators, and more. It uses a simple
system of 3 attributes (Brains, Fitness, and Common Sense) which
correspond to the classes of Brainiac, Athlete, and Typical
Person. Character creation is class-based with point-bought
skills.
Aurora
Stephen Mulholland
Chris Page
Chris Mills
2002
Aurora Games
A hard science-fiction spacefaring game, set in a distant future
where humans have colonised space in cooperation with six other
spacefaring races. There is a focus on exploration and interaction
among the highly-detailed alien species. Action resolution uses
"failure dice", where you choose how many d10's to roll. You get
a constant bonus equal to that number, but each roll equal to or
less than that number subtracts 2 from your total. Thus, choosing
more dice is riskier but gives a chance at a higher total. Character
creation is open point-based.
Auvron
Ferenc Somlói
Olivér Kovács
1995
Impressum
A Hungarian-language fantasy RPG.
Aux Armes Citoyens!
Coste
Bocquet
1988
Cubic 6
A French-language historical RPG, set in the French Revolution --
Monarchists against "Sans Culottes". It uses a fairly simple system
with five attributes (2-12) and skills from +0 to +3. Action
resolution uses 2d6.
Avant Charlemagne
Francois Nedelec
1986
Robert Laffont Éditeur
A French-language historical RPG, set in the barbaric times
before the coming of Charlemagne. That is, Europe ca. 400-700 A.D.
Avengers of Justice
Joseph Hillmer
George Rahm
1994
Better Games
A superhero game where resolution is based on genre and drama
rather than stats, using the "Free-Style Roleplay" system
from <a href="GAME#crimsoncutlass">Crimson Cutlass</a>.
By the rules, it is a disadvantage for a Villian to eliminate the
Hero as the comic line would then cease to run and the Villain would
get canceled with it. The game includes tables of genre cliches,
action resolution, etc.
Les Aventuriers
Laurent Ryder
1990
Stonehenge
A French-language modern-day pulp RPG, based on "Bob Morane"
serie of novels published in the 60s-70s. It mixes sci-fi and
fantasy in variout fantastic adventures. Originally published as
text files on floppy disks.
Awesome Adventures
Willow Palecek
2008
self-published
146
A role-playing game of over-the-top action adventure, using a variant
of the FATE system (Fantastic Adventures in Tabletop Entertainment) from
<a href="GAME#spiritofthecentury">Spirit of the Century</a>.
The rules are written with the goal of quick, easy, fast-moving play.
The game book is independently published via
<a href="http://www.lulu.com/content/2085636">Lulu.com</a>.
Babylon 5: Roleplaying Game and Fact Book
Matthew Sprange
2003
Mongoose Publishing
304
2nd
2006
360
A sci-fi game based on the TV series "Babylon 5". It uses a variant
of the rules from third edition
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">Dungeons & Dragons</a>
(aka d20). The book is not a complete game, and requires the D&D
Players Handbook for character generation, skills, and experience.
It includes descriptions for six races and eight classes, plus
modified combat rules and rules for telepathy and spacecraft battles.
The Babylon Project
Joseph Cochran
1997
Chameleon Eclectic
A sci-fi game based on the TV series "Babylon 5". The rules are
reasonably laid out, with a straightforward skill-based system.
The combat system is fairly complex, with a hex-pattern hit
location chart and a table relating damage amount and type.
Bacchanal
Paul Czege
2005
Half-Meme Press
A mini-RPG about a night of madness in 61 A.D., in the Italian harbour town of Puteoli. The god Bacchus and his satyrs have descended from the hills to induce an irresistable madness of drunkenness, violent crime, and lust. Three other gods are also present: Venus, goddess of love and lust; Pluto, who has come to see the most base crimes of men; and Minerva, enraged by the mindless brutality and of a mind to put a stop to it. The PCs have each been accused of a crime against the empire, and they need to find their lost companion and flee Puteoli before they are caught and killed by the soldiers that are looking for them. The game consists of rolling a handful of dice, with different dice representing the gods, the soldiers, the companion, and wine. Depending on which die is highest, the player is given directions to narrate the scene.
BARBAREN! The Ultimate Macho Role Playing Game
1st (German)
Frank Tarcikowski
2009
Vagrant Workshop
1st (English)
Frank Tarcikowski
2011
Vagrant Workshop
A satirical fantasy RPG that describes itself as going "far beyond the
limits of good taste" - where the PCs are giant barbarian men filled
with raging testosterone, and the rules focus on both fighting and
seduction. Character creation is a mix of point-based and
random-roll, and there is only one core attribute - Virility.
All PCs have a Virility of 3. The players then split 25 points
between the secondary stats Dangerous and Attractive, which are
spent to take actions in fighting or seduction (respectively), and
are lost by being being wounded or refused. Players roll 1d6 each for
their initial pools of Aggro and Horny points that can be spent for
bonus dice. They select 7 tricks - one-shot abilities such as
"double strike" or "electrifying touch". Players also define 3
free-form Strengths (or 4 Strengths and 1 Weakness) along with
2 Character Traits, a Goal in Life, and 2-3 Bonds to NPCs (including
desire, rivalry, and/or oath). Resolution is by rolling d6s equal
to Virility, plus 1 die for describing the scene well, plus 1 die
for using a tactical advantage, plus dice supplied by character
aiding you, and modifying dice for Strengths, Weaknesses, or Bonds.
Aggro points can be spent for bonus dice in fighting, and are gained
through sex. Horny points can be spent for bonus dice in seduction,
and are gained by fighting.
Barbarians of Lemuria
Simon Washbourne
2008
Beyond Belief Games
Legendary
2009
A swords & sorcery fantasy RPG, inspired by primarily by
Lin Carter's Thongor of Lemuria series along with Conan, Elric, and
Fafhrd & The Grey Mouser. It is set in an archetypal
world (Lemuria) that is just recovering from a final war against
the sorcerer-kings who had ruled for centuries. Along with humans,
there are nomadic blue-skinned giants (Ceruleans), savage jungle-dwelling
apemen (Grooth), and secretive birdmen (Haklaton). It uses its own
system. Resolution calls for combining 2d6 + attribute - difficulty,
where 9 and above is a success. Hero Points can be spent to re-roll
dice, raise level of success, cheat death, and even change game-world
facts (with GM permission). Character creation is limited point-based.
The player distributes 4 points among the four main attributes
(Strength, Agility, Mind and Appeal) and 4 points among the combat
abilities (Brawl, Melee, Ranged and Defence); selects 4 careers from
a provided list; then selects a place of origin and either one
trait/advantage or two traits/advantages and a flaw. It includes
a freeform magic system for sorcery, gods, and alchemy.
Barbarians Versus
Nathan J. Hill
2005
Key 20 Publishing
Mystic Ages Online
32
A mini-roleplaying game about medieval fantasy barbarians fighting reptilian invaders from beyond the stars.
Barony Fantasy Role-Play
Joseph Hillmer
George Rahm
1993
Better Games
An oriental fantasy RPG, published in magazine format in three
books. One book handles character creation and basic mechanics,
one book walks GMs through developing scenarios, and the last one
is on dragon battles. It uses the "Free-Style Roleplay" system
from <a href="GAME#crimsoncutlass">Crimson Cutlass</a>.
Reviewed in White Wolf #26.
Barrio Xino
Sergi Latorre
2000
La Factoría de Ideas
2nd
2001
A humorous Spanish-language modern-day RPG. The setting can be your
own city and district. PCs are the everydays people who you can see at
the streets, frequently dealing with the illegality. Pickpockets, cops,
pimps, whores, students, etc.
BASH! Basic Action Super Heroes
Chris Rutkowsky
2005
Basic Action Games
56
Ultimate
2009
A superhero RPG with a simple system. Action resolution is by
rolling 2d6 (with doubles open-ending), multiplying by attribute (1-5),
adding modifiers, and comparing with difficulty. Skills are binary --
lacking a skill means -4 on the die roll before multiplying.
In combat, if a hit is scored, the damage is the difference between
a damage roll (usually Brawn + attack bonuses) and a soak roll
(usually Brawn + Armor). Character creation is limited point-based.
First, spread 7 points among the three attributes (Brawn, Agility,
and Mind). Second, spread 9 points on powers. Third, pick a number
of Agility skills equal to Agility, and Mind skills equal to Mind.
BASH! Fantasy
Chris Rutkowsky
2005
Basic Action Games
A fantasy RPG using a variant of the system in
<a href="GAME#bash">BASH!</a>.
Basic Role-Playing
Greg Stafford
Lynn Willis
1980
Chaosium
Jason Durall
Sam Johnson
Steve Perrin
Steve Hedrickson
Ray Turney
2008
Chaosium
This is a short universal RPG system, although as originally
published it only supported fantasy or early history. The
original booklet was intended as an introduction for beginners
to Chaosium's <a href="GAME#runequest">RuneQuest</a>,
<a href="GAME#callofcthulhu">Call of Cthulhu</a>,
and <a href="GAME#stormbringer">Stormbringer</a> games.
These used roughly the same system which BRP explained. BRP is a
percentile skill system: roll under skill(0-100) on percentile
dice, or roll on the "resistance table" for attribute (3-18) vs
difficulty. Character creation is random-roll attributes. In
the introductory booklet, skills are fixed but can be improved
with experience. In 1982, the booklet was packaged with 3 genre
books in <a href="GAME#worldsofwonder">Worlds of Wonder</a>.
Batman RPG
Jack A. Barker
Greg Gorden
Ray Winninger
1988
Mayfair Games
2nd
Ray Winninger
1989
A superhero RPG based on playing characters from the "Batman"
comic series from DC Comics. It used a "lite" version of the
<a href="GAME#dcheroes">DC Heroes</a> system (aka MEGS).
Battleaxe RPG
Donald E. Olson
K. Douglas Woolsey
2004
Sixteen Coal Black Horses
Reforged
2006
A fantasy RPG set on the war-ravaged world of Mordredica, an ancient
battlefield of the Gods and prison of the Forty Sorcerers. It is
inhabited by races including human, elf, dwarf, orc, and wulfir
(wolf-men). Character creation is a mix of random-roll and limited
point-based. The six attributes (Vigor, Action, Conviction, Savvy,
Imagination, and Fortitude) are each determined by (racial base) + 2d6,
after which from 4 to 10 points can be moved between attributes.
A profession can be determined by a die roll or choice, and a choice
of Mastery (Warrior, Ranger, or Mage). Resolution is by rolling under
a target number based on attribute using 1d20, with roll - target number
for the level of success ("span").
Battle Born
Joseph Hillmer
George Rahm
1992
Better Games
A sci-fi mini-RPG published in <u>Space Gamer</u> magazine,
issue #1. It is based on a portion of the space marine
RPG <a href="GAME#eraten">Era Ten</a>.
Battlelords of the 23rd Century
Lawrence R. Sims
1990
Optimus
2nd
1991
3rd
1992
4th
1993
5th
1999
A "deep space" sci-fi RPG that focuses on an Alliance of 27
alien races who desperately seek to ward off the threat of
internal destruction while simultaneously exploring the vast
uncharted regions of space. It uses a d100, skill-based
system. Reviewed in White Wolf #35.
Battlemaster
Chris Norman
Jody Ellis
1988
Archive Gaming Pty Ltd
232
A generic fantasy RPG produced in Australia. It has no specific
setting, though it does have a bestiary and references to various
worlds of experience including natural, ethereal, hades, limbo,
and cosmos. The system uses classes, levels, and experience points.
Skills include general and class-specific, and are resolved by
rolling under skill on percentile dice. Combat is resolved by
skill rolls, with armor reducing the damage of hits. It includes
a magic system where spells require power points, mana, or both -
and may be subject to Karmic Influence, a luck attribute.
The basic game has a bestiary with monsters including a giant
carnivorous kangaroo.
Battlestar Galactica Role Playing Game
Jamie Chambers
James Davenport
Sean Everette
Patrick Kapera
Nathan Rockwood
Floyd C. Wesel
2007
Margaret Weis Productions
232
A space opera RPG based on the modern television series created by
Ronald D. Moore that started in 2004. It uses the "Cortex" system
adapted from the <a href="GAME#sovereignstone">Sovereign Stone</a>
fantasy system and
<a href="GAME#serenity">Serenity RPG</a>.
Attributes and skills are rated in a a step die
system with twelve ranks: d2, d4, d6, d8, d10, d12, d12+d2, d12+d4,
d12+d6, d12+d8, d12+d10, d12+d12. Action resolution is by rolling
attribute die plus skill die. Characters have six attributes (Agility,
Strength, Vitality, Alertness, Intelligence, Willpower), along with
skills and advantages. It also includes a plot point mechanic.
Plot Points can be spent before a roll for an extra die (costing 1
per rank), after the roll to raise the total (costing 1 per +1),
or to manipulate the story (scaled from 1-3 for convenient coincidence
to 11+ for "saving your bacon").
Battlestations
Jeff Siadek
Jason Siadek
2004
Gorilla Games
A mixed boardgame and role-playing game which integrates character
actions with spaceship actions. Players track their characters'
positions on the spaceship layouts (also used for boarding actions)
and the ships' positions on the hex map. If you want the ship to
turn or speed up, a character has to take an action to make it so.
If you want the ship's guns to fire at an enemy ship, a character
has to take an action to fire the guns. Character creation uses
six species and four professions (Pilot, Marine, Scientist, and
Engineer).
Battletech: A Time of War
Herbert A. Beas II
2010
Catalyst Game Labs
A sci-fi RPG in the world of the <u>Battletech</u>
boardgame, set in a 31st century where constant wars are fought
by giant robots - a successor to the earlier
<a href="GAME#mechwarrior">Mechwarrior</a> RPG.
Resolution uses 2d6 + skill + modifiers vs. difficulty, possibly
modified by burning Edge points before or after the roll.
Character creation is limited point-based.
Beach Bunny Bimbos with Blasters
Richard Tucholka
1991
Tri-Tac Games
A humorous sci-fi RPG of alien invasion (a take-off of BTRC's
<a href="GAME#machowomenwithguns">Macho Women with Guns</a>).
Martians are taking over, reviving the horrors of plastic
flamingos and Disco, and only California beach bunnies can spot
them (due to their uncluttered brains). It uses a percentile
skill system (roll under skill on d100), with mixed random-roll
and point-bought character creation.
Beast Hunters
Christian Griffen
Lisa Griffen
2007
Berengad Games
154
A game for two players set in an original fantasy setting where
tribal hunters stalk mythical beasts through jungles -- combined
with mystic rituals and spirits.
Beasts, Men, & Gods
Bill Underwood
1980
Imagination Unlimited
The Game Masters
2nd
Bill Underwood
2011
Wunderwood LLC
A fantasy RPG. Character creation has combined classes and races
(like original <a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">
D&D</a>). Advancement is level-based.
It was a small-press offering published locally in Kansas.
Beat to Quarters
Neil Gow
2009
Omnihedron Games
A role-playing game of naval action in the Napaleonic era. The resolution
system is based on playing cards, where each player has their own deck of
cards. The players draws a pool of cards based on stat to resolve an
entire combat or other conflict, where each card that beats a
randomly-drawn "Card of Fate" is one success. Play is structured
around mechanically-defined missions. The system also includes
mechanics for social advancement, ship-to-ship combat, weather, and grog.
Character creation uses a lifepath system.
Becoming Heroes
W. Austin Bookheimer
John LeBoeuf-Little
Kit La Touche
2011
Transneptune Games
122
A role-playing game designed for the genre of epic fantasy, with
story-oriented mechanics. It uses freeform traits, which add to
make a d6 dice pool used to resolve conflicts. In addition to determining
success, players may still gain things if they lose a conflict and/or
may get new traits to use later. Players also have beads for "destiny"
and "doom". These are used to fuel threads (meta-story effects) or
to modify conflicts. The character has an "arc" like Lost King for
Aragorn or Dutybound for Frodo. If a player follows their arc, they gain
benefits including new threads or more beads. Character creation is
by picking 8 primary traits (descriptors of the character), 3 ties
(relationships to other people), 3 circumstances (starting situations
the character is in), 1 virtue (determining when to get beads of
destiny/doom), 1 arc and 4 threads.
Behind Enemy Lines
William H. Keith, Jr.
Jordan Weisman
Ross Babcock
Eric Turn
Steve Turn
1982
FASA
2nd
1985
The Companions
A military RPG set in WWII on the Western front. The
system is similar to the original <a href="GAME#traveller">
Traveller</a> rules.
Berlin XVIII
Laurent Tremel
1989
Siroz / Ideojeux
2nd
1995
A French-language dark-future RPG, where the PC's are police
in a nightmarish city's worst bourough (Sector 18). This had
several releases, the first ones being part of the
<a href="GAME#universom">Universom</a> line.
Best Friends: A Role-Playing Game About Girlfriends And All Their Petty Hatreds
Gregor Hutton
2006
BoxNinja
A game where the PCs are "best friends". There are five stats: Pretty,
Cool, Smart, Tough, and Rich. Each PC's stats are set by how all the
other players rate your character. Each player answers five questions
for her PC, of the form "I hate _____ because she is
(Prettier/Cooler/etc.) than me". Then the number of PCs who hate
your character for how Cool she is becomes that PC's Cool stat.
Beyond Mortal Men
Christopher Helton
2005
Battlefield Press
A superhero RPG rules system. This is strictly speaking a supplement
for use with the <a href="GAME#action">Action! System</a>
from Gold Rush Games.
Beyond the Supernatural
Randy McCall
Kevin Siembieda
Erick Wujcik
1988
Palladium Books
2nd
2005
Palladium Books
A contemporary horror RPG, using a variant of the
<a href="GAME#palladiumfantasy">Palladium System</a>.
It includes supernatural and psychic powers, plus a magic system
(including ley lines).
Bifrost
Volume 1: Faerie
1977
L.W.Felstead Ltd
74
Volume 2: Combat
1978
Skytrex Ltd.
36
Volume 3: Magic
1978
Skytrex Ltd.
84
Volume 4
A.R. Chandler
B.D. Cooper
G.D. Evans
J. le Grabbe-Phipps
D.R. Henderson
G.J. Philp
A.R. Williamson
1979
Skytrex Ltd.
90
Bifrost
K. White
K. Minear
S. Johnson
G. Highley
1982
Skytrex Ltd.
A medieval fantasy miniatures combat system and RPG, using a
fairly complex system. Originally published as a series of four
separate rulebook volumes. These were eventually expanded and
combined into a single volume, published in 1982. In addition to
combat and characters, the system covers planar travel and divine
intervention. Volume 1 ("Faerie") is 74 pages staple-bound with a
dark blue cover with white illustration of a dragon. Volume 2 ("Combat")
is 36 pages staple-bound with a light blue cover with white
illustration of castle. Volume 3 ("Magic") is 84 loose pages
with a purple cover with illustration of wizard. Volume 4 is
90 pages glue-bound, with a yellow cover with a black illustration
of a goblin-like creature. Volume 4 contains rules on unarmed,
mounted, and aerial combat, horses, fatigue, firearms and literacy,
plus creature descriptions.
Big Bang Comics Role-Playing Game
Chris Carter
2006
Pisces All Media
227
A superhero RPG based on the series of comic books of the same name,
a retro take-off series of many classic comics of the Golden Age and
Silver Age, founded by Gary Carlson. It is a standalone game using
a variant of the D20 System used by 3rd edition
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a>
called the Golden System. It uses the standard ability scores, levels,
attacks and skills, and class mechanics -- while adding disadvantages
("Negative Feats") that allow a bonus feat, as well as a large selection
of 200+ new feats including various superheroic abilities. The core book
includes statistics for many of the Big Bang characters -- the Blitz,
Ultiman, Knight Watchman, Thunder Girl, and others -- as well as
background on the universe, gadget rules, mass combat and vehicle
combat rules, and alternate dimensions.
Big Eyes, Small Mouth
Mark MacKinnon
1997
Guardians of Order
2nd
David L. Pulver
Mark MacKinnon
2000
A universal Japanese anime role-playing game, intended to cover
subgenres from giant mecha to romantic comedy. It has a very
simple system (the "Tri-Stat" system) with three attributes and
ads/disads -- the base game has no skills. Action resolution is
by 2d6 against modified attribute. The 2nd edition incorporated
skill rules, lots of advantages/disadvantages, and mecha rules
into the core rulebook.
Binary RPG
Bertrand Triplet
1988
self-published
2nd
1990
Les Silmarils
A French-language universal mini-RPG with minimalist rules that
fit on a single page. Character creation is either point-based or
random-roll attributes. It included an advertisement for a
Hollow Earth setting.
Bitume
Croc
1985
self-published
2nd
1986
3rd
1989
Siroz / Ideojeux
Mk5
1992
A French-language post-apocalyptic RPG in the genre of <u>Mad
Max</u>. The first game of Croc, one of France's famous game
creators.
The Bizenghast Adventure Game
Clint Krause
2008
KNRPG Productions
A urban fantasy/horror RPG based on the manga series created by
M. Alice LeGrow and published by Tokyopop. The player characters
are agents of the afterlife - including humans, inhumans, and spirits -
charged with hunting ghosts, resolving their problems, and sending
them on to the next world. It uses the "Epiphany Engine" game system.
Resolution uses rolling under attribute on 1d20, and if the roll exactly
matches the rating is raised by one (called an epiphany).
Black Seven
Stew Wilson
2012
Zero Point Information
58
A roleplaying game in the genre of stealth action technothriller games
like Deus Ex, Alpha Protocol, and Splinter Cell. The player characters
work for an independent espionage organisation, Black Seven, set ten
minutes in the future. Action resolution is by rolling 2d6 and adding
an action number. A total of 11 or above is success, while 10 or lower
is failure. It has an abstract system for breaking into Facilities
without using maps. The Facility has a Threat Level ranging from 3 to 5,
and failed rolls can affect the level via the temporary status traits
Noticed and Exposed.
The Black Spot
Mark Silcox
2009
Grasshopper Games
14
A horror genre storytelling game for 3 to 8 players inspired by the films
of Sam Raimi, George Romero, and Wes Craven. It uses a special deck of
80 Plot Cards along with 8 Backstory Cards and 8 Escape! Cards.
It also uses 1d20 but only for choosing a random name, trait, and
occupation for each character. A single deck is assembled - taking
Backstory and Escape! cards equal to the number of players, and Plot
cards based on number of players and desired number of rounds.
Each turn, every player is dealt a card and then each player in turn
narrates for a short time following instructions for that card type.
The basic game includes nine scenarios.
Blackwatch Technical Reference Manual
Ted Greer
Peter Christian
1989
Different Worlds Publications
A spacefaring sci-fi RPG, about members of a freelance
trouble-shooting organizations ("Blackwatch"). Besides humans,
there are 4 alien races described. It uses a skill-based system,
including rules for starship combat and robots.
Blade & Crown
Rachel Kronick
2012
self-published
176
A fantasy roleplaying game using a detailed skill-based system.
Action resolution is by rolling a pool of d10s based on skill, along
with a single d12 that provides flavor for the result. Character
creation includes 12 basic attributes along with freeform traits and
social class.
Blade of Arcana
Taro Suzubuki
1999
F.E.A.R.
2nd
2001
A Japanese-language mythic fantasy RPG. It includes a special
tarot deck with the basic rules.
Blazing Rose: A Story Game of Romantic Rivalry
Ashcan
Edward "Sabe" Jones
2009
self-published
85
A collaborative storytelling game for three to six players, about a
group of friends vying for the affection of a common Beloved.
It usese playing card mechanics, where conflicts are resolved using
special trick-taking rules. Each player plays a card face-down and
states a Hope, then reveal their cards. The player with the highest
card not greater than their attribute takes the trick, then distributes
the cards to the other players to change their Affection stat.
Bliss Stage
Ignition
Ben Lehman
2007
Tao Games
Interim
2009
A post-apocalyptic sci-fi role-playing game for 2-7 players. The Earth
has been occupied by alien invaders and all adults have been put into
comas by psychic alien technology. The player characters are teenage
resistance fighters (age 13 to 17) battling an alien occupation on a
psychic plane using giant robots (ANIMa). A core part of the mechanics is
that the robot's power comes from the pilot's relationships - especially
sexual ones. Each relationship is measured by two ratings: Intimacy
and Trust. It uses a d6 (or Fudge dice) dice pool system, broken into
mechanics for missions and interludes. During a mission, the mecha
pilot rolls dice equal to total Intimacy of relationships allocates
them to categories. Damage may occur by inflicting Stress on relationships
or Trauma. In interludes, relationships can be modified as well as
Stress or Trauma relieved.
Blood: The Roleplaying Game of Modern Horror
Norley Tucker
Stephen Osborn
1990
Underground Games
James Desborough
2006
Postmortem Studios
A modern-day horror RPG where PC's face various film-based
creatures including zombies, Angels of Pain (from Hellraiser),
Candarion Demons (from Evil Dead), The Blob (from the film of the
same name). It uses a percentile system. Character creation is
d100 for each attribute, and skills chosen by a career package
plus points based on attributes. The combat system is quite
gory, with 400+ weapons and 25 critical hit tables. It is a 112
page book, with 2 scenarios to help you get started.
Blood & Honor: Samurai Tragedy in Old Japan
John Wick
2010
Wicked Dead Brewing Company
170
A semi-historical game set in an unspecified period of medieval Japan.
The player characters are generally samurai. It uses a dice pool system
that adapts Aspects from the FATE system in
<a href="GAME#spiritofthecentury">Spirit of the Century</a>.
The player rolls a number of d6s equal to attribute plus 3 dice for
each aspect invoked. If the total is over 10 or the opponent's roll,
the character succeeds and the player can narrate what happens. There
is also a wager system that lets the player remove a die for a chance
at more narrative power.
Bloodbath
Rick Slawson
Troy Christensen
1989
TC International
A fantasy mini-RPG set on the barbaric world of Helboria. The
PC's are warriors who explore this world, while killing stuff
along the way. The combat system is based on a hex-map, and
includes graphic descriptions with various critical hits.
It uses "Bodily Mutilation Capacity" in place of hit points.
Published in a set of 24-page rulebook (complete with a sample
dungeon adventure), a world map, hex grid map, and counters.
A companion game, Bloodchant, added spellcasting rules to the
system.
Blood Dawn
Lawrence R. Sims
1996
Optimus
A post-nuclear-apocalypse science fantasy RPG set 60 years after
the devastation, in a world of "magic, mutations, and machines".
The PC's are prophets seeking to restore civilization from the
reigning barbarism. It uses a basic roll-under-stat with
modifiers. Character creation is limited point-bought.
Bloode Island
Todd Downing
1999
Deep7
10
XPG
Todd Downing
John Sullivan
Mark Bruno
2002
Diceless
2004
A mini-game of swashbuckling pirate action, set in a historical pastiche
of varied periods from the Age of Exploration and the golden age of
piracy. The original game used the 1PG rules from Deep7, where
resolution is rolling 1d6 and getting under attribute or skill, where
1 is always success and 6 is always failure. Later editions used the
"XPG" system and then later the <a href="GAME#activeexploits">
Active Exploits Diceless Roleplaying</a> rules. The last
includes new rules for Mojo and Naval Combat.
Blood Games: Occult Horror Role-playing
clash bowley
Jason Ludwig
Wesley Fornero
2004
Flying Mice LLC
182
A modern-day horror RPG, set in an alternate reality where a evil
demons are rampaging. In the past, a god-like figure ("Norandon")
saved mankind from the demons, giving humans magic. However, Science
has eroded the belief which is necessary for magic, via a process
called "Nullity". There is no great conspiracy, but scattered hunters
work for the Force of Light to fight vampires and demons. The rules
use a percentile skill-based system. Character creation has
random-roll attributes and a lifepath mechanic for each year over 10,
which generates skills, metaskills, and attribute improvements.
Characters may have a "path" -- which are supernatural powers of a
variety of sorts. The second edition ("Blood Games II") uses a
version of the "StarPool" system, where resolution is by rolling
d20s equal to skill, where every result under attribute is a success.
Bloodlust
Croc
1991
Siroz/Ideojeux
A French-language heroic fantasy game, set on the fantasy
continent of Tanaephis -- a violent and wild land.
Blood of Heroes
Tony Oliveira
Ray Hedman
Joshua Marquart
Christopher Tatro
1998
Pulsar
368
A superhero/supervillian RPG. It uses the "MEGS" system from
<a href="GAME#dcheroes">DC Heroes</a>, where everything
is rated in exponential "AP" values. Actions are resolved by
rolling 2d10 on a universal table of offensive AP vs defensive AP.
Blowback
Elizabeth Shoemaker
2010
Two Scooters Press
78
A modern-day thriller RPG inspired by the television series "Burn Notice"
as well as the Bourne trilogy movies. Each player creates one Professional -
a spy/operative who have been blacklisted - and one Civilian connected to
another player's Professional. Character creation is choosing a type
of Professional (general "Lifer" or specialized "Artist") and distributing
four values among the four attributes: Commando, Diversion, Pavement,
Provocateur. Players also distribute a set of values among rated
Relationships, as well as picking background details. The players
collectively determine the job they did together that went wrong to
get all the Professionals blacklisted. Play is divided into two large
phases: Analysis and Operation. Resolution involves either taking a
fixed number of successes equal to half of stat, or rolling d6s equal
to stat where 4-6 is a success. All successes during the Analysis phase
are kept as dice to be used in Operation phase. In addition, the
number of success dice minus failed dice is a modifier to the next roll
on that stat, called Momentum.
Blue Planet
Jeff Barber
Greg Benage
John Snead
Jason Werner
1997
Biohazard Games
2nd
2000
Fantasy Flight Games
Revised
Jeffrey Barber
Greg Benage
Allan T. Grohe Jr.
Greg Porter
Brian Schoner
John Snead
Mark Stout
James Sutton
Jason Werner
Andrew Whincup
2012
RedBrick LLC
A post-ecological-apocalypse game set on a lush alien world nearly
entirely ocean-covered. The majority of the very thick book is a
very detailed description of the world, history, and culture.
It is set in a future where Earth discovers a wormhole just outside
the solar system which leads to a waterworld dubbed "Poseidon".
Colonization had just begun, spurred by the discovery of a
longevity ore called "Long John". Contact is interrupted by a
catastrophic grain blight on Earth, leading to 75 years of rough
independent life for the colonists. The 1st edition rule system
is a semi-complex percentile skill-based system. The 2nd edition
has a completely new system which uses dice pools: roll d10's equal
to your aptitude (1 to 3), take the lowest roll, and try to get less
than your attribute+skill+modifiers. In both, character creation is
semi-random attributes and point-bought skills.
Blue Rose: The Roleplaying Game of Romantic Fantasy
Jeremy Crawford
Dawn Elliott
Steve Kenson
John Snead
2005
Green Ronin Publishing
192
A fantasy genre game set on an original world, Aldea. It is
populated by various races including the ancient and mystical Vata,
the Sea-folk; the Night People; and the Rhydan (psychic intelligent
animals). The rules are a standalone system (the "True20" system)
loosely based on the D20 System used by 3rd edition
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a>,
adding in rules variations from
<a href="GAME#mutantsandmasterminds">Mutants &
Masterminds</a>. There are only three core classes: adept,
expert, and warrior -- and variety instead comes from more and
more variety of feats. It also includes a wound track damage system
based on a 1d20 roll to resist damage, and a new magic system based
on feats, where spells cost fatigue. The combat system is modified
to remove full-round attacks and attacks of opportunity, and adding
some non-attack options.
Bob, Lord of Evil
Kevin Davies
1993
Peregrine
A humorous RPG set in the "Dark Lands" with a techno- fantasy
horror theme. The game is intended particularly for characters
from other game universes to drop in for light-hearted
adventures.
Bogeyman
Ashok Desai
2010
Sane Studios
164
A role-playing game of personal horror, set in the modern world including
psychic phenomena such as ghosts, spirits, and psychics. The Bogeyman
is contained within the minds of the player characters, controlled by
the GM and released by three moments - sin, madness, or tragedy.
The rules use playing cards, with each player needing their own deck
and the game master needing two. Players each get a hand of five cards,
and must play all five in separate tests before refreshing, unless they
play a joker. Resolution is by card number plus stat versus a difficulty
number. The rules include both physical and social combat and damage.
Bones the Role Playing Game
Andrew J. Martone
2004
Peregrine
51
A fantasy role playing game in which characters, monsters,
equipment, and obstacles are all represented by customized
six-sided dice. These can be made by gluing printed icon sheets
onto dice, marking on blank dice, or simulated with a computerized
dice roller utility. Each die has icons such as "Universal Success",
"Physical Success", "Mental Success", "Universal Hindrance",
"Damage", and many icons for skills, magic, and special
circumstances. Action resolution is by rolling your set of
dice and counting applicable success icons, compared to the
result of Challenge dice (if unopposed) or the opposed entity's
dice (if opposed). Challenge dice have 2 out of 6 faces as "Null"
which cancels one success. Character creation is open point-based
of a sort: the player chooses icons for his four starting dice.
One face is always "Universal Success", and one face is either
"Physical Success" or "Mental Success", while the other four are
freely chosen from the other choices.
The Book of Jalan
Albert Bailey
clash bowley
Klaxon Bowley
2004
Flying Mice LLC
214
A fantasy game set on a Renaissance-to-Restoration era alien world
where humanity has magic-like psionic powers. This is a standalone
fantasy variant of the science fiction RPG
<a href="GAME#starcluster">Starcluster</a>.
There are four races: human, Alari (humanoids with supernaturally
deep but engrossing memories), Khali (orc-like barbarians), and
Bani (short, agile miners). It uses a percentile skill-based system.
Character creation has either random-roll or point-based attributes;
and a lifepath mechanic for each year over 10, which generates skills,
metaskills, and attribute improvements.
The Book of LARP
Mike Young
Gordon Olmstead-Dean
Miki Tracey
Mike Pohjola
Jeff Diewald
Ryan Markle
Sandy Antunes
Mike Beddes
John Kammer
John Kilgallon
2003
Interactivities, Inc.
A guide to writing and running live-action role-playing games (LARPs).
It includes six sample games: "Trapped", "All the President's Zombies",
"I Shall Not Want", "Michael Clambino's Fundraiser", "Humans vs
Monsters: Diplomacy", and "Lost in the Stacks".
The Boomtown Planet
Richard Parkinson
2005
Better Mousetrap Games
Timeless Games
"Saturday"
2007
A pulp style RPG set in the fictional city of Boomtown during the
"Dirty 30s" of the U.S. -- with a focus on investigative reporting
for its daily newspaper, the Planet. It is an over-the-top setting
with ghosts and other supernatural influences, where there are only
two countries: the corrupt Capital State and warmongering
Klankeruberalles. It uses a dice pool system where you roll
either your attributes in d6s (if you have the appropriate skill)
or 1d6 (if you don't); and also declare odds or evens. The
number of successes is the number of dice over the difficulty
and matching your odd/even call. The six attributes are Strength,
Endurance, Fortitude, Perception, Essence, and Agility. There is
no character generation system -- only sixteen pre-generated members
of the Boomtown Planet's staff.
Boot Hill
Gary Gygax
Brian Blume
1975
TSR
34
2nd
1979
36
3rd
Steve Winter
1990
An early western RPG. It uses a mostly percentile resolution system.
Character creation uses random-roll attributes (Strength, Coordination,
Observation, Stature, and Luck) in the 1-20 range. Skills are
point-bought with points based on your attributes. The third edition
majorly changed the system, revising resolution to use only d6's and
d20's instead of percentile rolls. There was a GM's screen and five
32-page adventure modules published for it from 1981 to 1984:
"Mad Mesa", "Ballots & Bullets", "Lost Conquistador Mine",
"Burned Bush Wells", and "Range War".
Boucanier
Bruno Merandon
1992
Le Korrigan
A French-language pirate RPG.
Bounty Head Bebop
JP deHénaut
2008
Heroic Journey Publishing
A sci-fi RPG set in a gritty near future where the solar system has
been colonized, but lawlessness is rampant in the Solar Frontier.
It is loosely based on the anime series Cowboy Bebop. It uses the
"Inverted 20" system that partly derives from D20, but resolves by
rolling 1d20 under a target number modified by ability, skill, and/or
difficulty. Attributes are rated from 1 to 5, and derive Initiative,
Movement, Saves, Wounds, and Vitality points. There are also skills -
divided into General, Combat, and Specialty - as well as binary Edges
and Flaws. Characters start with 3 Edges and may take 3 more by
taking corresponding Flaws. The system also includes psychic/feng
shui powers. Combat is simple, and you can optionally use the same
roll for hit and damage.
Bram Stoker's Dracula
Barry Nakazano
David McKenzie
1993
Leading Edge
A cinematic vampire-hunting game covering periods from medieval
to the present, based on the 1992 film. It's mechanics include
the accumulation of "Clue Points" which allow the PC's to
progress to the "Search Stage" and "Confrontation Stage" with
various random encounters along the way. The system has an
extremely simplified version of the combat rules in
<a href="GAME#phoenixcommand">Phoenix Command</a>,
which is still quite complex.
Brave New World
Matt Forbeck
1999
Pinnacle
2nd
2000
Alderac Entertainment Group
A superhero game in an alternate timeline, where the heroes are
"deltas" that are fighting against a repressive U.S. government.
Powers are handled by pre-building power packages (10 given in
the basic game). The system is a fairly simple open-ended
attribute+skill dice pool (d6) vs difficulty, similar to the D6
or Icon Systems.
Breaking the Ice: A Game about Love, for Two
Emily Care Boss
2005
Black & Green Games
A game of romance designed for two players. Each of the two players creates a character which is in some ways a reversal of themselves -- such as another gender, culture, or orientation. After playing out three dates, the players add up their characters' Compatibilities and Attraction Levels. In general, five or more of both is Love Triumphant, but players are encouraged to discuss things. Players take turns gamemastering the date for each other, awarding dice to roll for those Levels based on story events, cleverness, and agreeing to the GM's ideas. The game awards dice for letting complications mess up your character's date, or otherwise adding in twists.
Broadsword
Jeff Mejia
James Stubbs
Todd Downing
2007
Deep7
16
A 16-page self-styled "beer & pretzels" RPG emulating fantasy
barbarian movies of the 1970s and 1980s, such as "Conan" and
"Hawk the Slayer". It uses the 1PG mechanics from other Deep7 games.
Action resolution is rolling 1d6 and getting under attribute or skill,
where 1 is always success and 6 is always failure. This game adds brief
systems for "advantages" and "magic", and also includes nine 1-page
adventures.
Bubblegum Crisis
Benjamin Wright
David Ackerman-Gray
1997
R Talsorian
A cyberpunk RPG based on the Japanese anime series, including a
lot of background information on the show. It uses the
<a href="GAME#fuzion">Fuzion</a> system.
Buccaneer
Carl Smith
1979
Adversary Games
A pirate mini-RPG (16 pages), covering 17th and 18th centuries.
The terse rules cover character creation, man-to-man and
ship-to-ship combat, and treasure-hoarding.
Buck Rogers: XXVc
Mike Cook
Michael Dobson
Jeff Grubb
Jim Ward
Warren Spector
Jeff Butler
1990
TSR
A sci-fi RPG loosely based on the comic and TV series, rewriting
significant background. The setting is post-apocalyptic, with many
dark elements. In 2456, Earth is devastated by war and recently
freed from the tyrrany of Russo-American Mercantile (RAM) by the
New Earth Order (NEO) and, of course, Buck Rogers. It uses a
variant of the AD&D system with a more advanced skill system.
Buffy the Vampire Slayer
C.J. Carella
2002
Eden Studios
A modern-day monster-fighting RPG based on the U.S. television series.
It uses the skill-based "Unisystem" from
<a href="GAME#witchcraft">Witchcraft</a>, with
open point-based character creation and resolution by stat+d10
vs difficulty. There are two basic character types: heroes (like
Buffy) and "white hats" (like Willow and Xander).
Bulldogs!
Brennan Taylor
C. Austin Hogan
David Sklar
A.J. Hernandez
Jeremy Simmons
2004
Galileo Games
2nd
2011
Galileo Games
A science fiction / space opera game. The first edition was published
as a supplement for third edition
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">Dungeons & Dragons</a>
(aka d20). It is set in a distant small galaxy. It includes ten races,
including a colorful near-human race, the Arsurbans. There are six
new primary classes, including Bounty Hunter, Space Pilot, Engineer,
and Space Pirate. It also includes starship combat rules.
Bunnies and Burrows
Scott Robinson
B. Dennis Sustare
1976
FGU
2nd
1982
A rabbit-adventure RPG in the genre of the Richard Adam's novel
<u>Watership Down</u>. It uses class-based character
creation, including herbalists (capable of concoctions like
"Snuffball" sleep grenades), seers, and empathic healers.
It has a rudimentary skill system and even martial arts rules
(the humorous "Bunfoo").
Bureau 13: Stalking the Night Fantastic
Richard Tucholka
Chris Belting
1983
Tri-Tac Games
2nd
1984
3rd
1990
A light-hearted supernatural conspiracy game about agents of a
super-secret U.S. government agency dedicated to hunting down
evil supernatural creatures while also protecting innocent
supernaturals by keeping them secret. The system is fairly
complex, including extensive damage rules.
Burning Empires
Luke Crane
2006
self-published
A science fiction system based on the graphic novel series Iron Empires
by Chris Moeller. It is set in a far future where human civilization of
eight vast interstellar empires is on the verge of collapse in the face
of an alien invasion. It uses a variant of the dice pool system in
<a href="GAME#burningwheel">Burning Wheel</a>. The system
is greatly expanded in the World Burning process to jointly create the
setting, and a staged system that creates different types of scenes
(Color, Interstitial, Building, and Conflict) in response to
strategic maneuvers in resisting the alien invasion.
The Burning Wheel
Luke Crane
2002
self-published
Revised
2005
A generic fantasy system, with an unspecified default setting --
feudal medieval with the usual dwarves, elves, and orcs. It uses
a dice pool system, based on rolling d6's equal to stat against a
target number of 2, 3, or 4 (depending on the "Shade" of the stat
tested). The number of successes then must be greater than the task
difficulty. Character creation is based on generating a year-by-year
lifepath according to profession. Attributes are bought from a pool
of Mental Attribute points and Physical Attribute points based on age.
Skills are bought with skill points accumulated via the lifepath.
There are two mental attributes -- Perception and Will -- and four
physical attributes -- Power (i.e. strength), Agility, Speed, and
Forte (i.e. endurance).
Burros and Banditos
unknown
unknown
Sierra Madre Games
A semi-roleplaying game set on the Mexican border.
Bushido
Paul Hume
Bob Charrette
1980
Tyr / Phoenix Games
2nd
1981
FGU
A fantasy RPG set in mythic Japan ("Nippon"), using a combined
class and skill-based system.
Cadillacs and Dinosaurs
Frank Chadwick
1990
GDW
A post-nuclear-apocalypse game in the strange world of the comic
"Xenozoic Tales", where dinosaurs have reappeared on the Earth.
Cadwallon: The Free City
Arnaud Cuidet
Bruno Bechu
Damien Desnous
Franck Plasse
Gregoire Laakmann
Ivo Garcia
Jean Bay
Nicolas Raoult
Sebastien Celerin
Vincent Kaufmann
Willem Peerbolte
Xavier Spinat
1st French
2005
Rackham
1st English
2006
Rackham
348
A tactical fantasy role-playing game in French and English, designed
for use with miniatures and compatible with the Confrontation fantasy
miniatures game. The game world is a traditional fantasy world
("Aarklash") inhabited by Elves, Dwarves, Humans, Goblins, Orcs,
Ogres, and Wolfen. The game is set in the free city of Cadwallon,
which was founded by a mercenary company and leases troops to the
various nations surrounding it that are in the process of entering a
massive war, the Rag'narok. It uses a d6 dice pool system where
characters have "attitudes" rather than standard attributes. The
attitudes are Pugnacity, Style, Sleight, Opportunism, Discipline, and
Subtlety. Character creation is by picking a race and culture (which
modify attitudes from their base of 2), distributing some flexible
points for skills and raising attitudes, and then picking 3 trade
ranks from the 37 trades. Tasks are resolved by rolling a number of
d6 equal to your skill level, taking the highest and adding the
appropriate attribute to compare against the difficulty. In action
scenes, dice are split between an action pool and reaction pool --
which are refreshed according to the character's trade scores.
Call of Cthulhu
Sandy Petersen
1981
Chaosium
Designer's
1982
2nd
1983
3rd
1986
4th
1989
5th
1992
5.5th
1998
5.6th
2000
20th Anniversary
2001
Miskatonic University
2001
Sandy Petersen
Lynn Willis
6th
2004
25th Anniversary
2006
A prolific horror game based on the works of H.P. Lovecraft,
where PC's are investigators into the unknown who deal with
horrors beyond comprehension. The basic game is set in 1920's
U.S., but there are also well-supported lines for 1990's U.S. and
1890's England. It uses the Chaosium <a href="GAME#basic">Basic
Role-Playing</a> system, with the notable addition of "Sanity".
Sanity is a percentile stat which is damaged when encountering
grotesque or other-worldly things. It can be regained only with
difficulty: by psychiatric treatment or by knowing that horrors
have been defeated. It also has a maximum that is the inverse of
your "Mythos Knowledge" skill (max SAN is 100-skill), so the more
you know about the truth the less sane you can be. Character
creation involves random-roll attributes and percentile
point-bought skills.
Call of Cthulhu Roleplaying Game (D20)
Monte Cook
John Tynes
2002
Wizards of the Coast
A horror game based on the works of H.P. Lovecraft, where PC's
are investigators into the unknown who deal with horrors beyond
comprehension. The rules are a standalone system based on the
D20 System used by 3rd edition
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a>.
It adds rules for insanity, but is still more combat oriented
than the original game from Chaosium.
Caper!
John O'Brien
2006
self-published
60
A 'Host a Heist' party game of co-operative storytelling, where 2-6 players take on the roles of thieves who join forces to pull off a crime. The type of caper is up to the Mastermind, while of course the results are cooperative. Caper uses the "21 System" rules which require a deck of playing cards and poker chips to play. The game is independently published via
<a href="http://www.lulu.com/content/345228">Lulu.com</a>.
Capes
Anthony Lower-Basch
2005
Muse of Fire Games
269
A superhero RPG with no gamemaster per se. 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.
Capitan Alatriste
Ricard Ibañez
2002
Devir Iberia
269
A Spanish-language gritty swashbuckling RPG, adapting the popular
series of novels by Spanish writer Arturo Perez-Reverte. The full
title is "El Juego de Rol del Capitan Alatriste" ("The Captain Alatriste
Roleplaying Game"). The novels are set in Madrid in the first half
of the 17th century, during the reign of Phillip IV Hapsburg.
Action resolution is by roll under skill or attribute on 3d6,
with difficulty expressed by "fixing" dice to 1 or 6. Character
creation is both point-bought and class-based, with thirteen
classes: Artist, Adventurer, Bandit, Priest, Comedian, Courtier,
Handmaiden, Inquisitor, Medic, Rogue, Soldier, Braggart (Thug),
and "Woman of Mystery". It includes a detailed system for combat,
with hit location and various maneuvers.
carry. a game about war.
Nathan Paoletta
2006
Hamsterprophet Productions
76
A short-form RPG where players play soldiers from a squad of U.S. Marines
in the Vietnam war, who end up turning on each other amidst the tensions
of war. Each PC has a single pool of dice, and has one of six profiles:
Accuser, Brawler, Invincible, Warrior, Companion, and Soldier -- though
profile can and will change during the game. Resolution works by a simple
dice pool system where you roll a single die from your pool, but each
time you roll you have to give away that die. The size of die (d4 through
d12) is limited by the combination of your profile and the Approach you
use (which is one of Violent, Strategic, Tactical, or Peaceful).
The game is short-form, and has a fixed progression which ends when
all the NPCs of the squad have been wounded, evacuated, or killed --
at which point all the PCs turn on each other.
Cartoon Action Hour
1st electronic
Cynthia Celeste Miller
2002
Spectrum Game Studios
108
1st print
Cynthia Celeste Miller
2003
Spectrum Game Studios
Z-Man Games
192
An RPG designed to emulate the action-adventure cartoons of the 1980s,
such as Thundarr the Barbarian, Transformers, G.I. Joe, and so
forth. Character creation features an open-ended system for
designing special abilities such as magic, psionics, gadgets, etc.
Action resolution uses stat + 1d12 vs difficulty. It also includes
genre rules for features like after-show messages ("...and knowing is
half the battle"), character advancement between "seasons" of the
series, and so forth.
Cassiopean Empire
Raymond Norton
1982
Norton Games
Advanced
Raymond Norton
Ray Moats
James Gowan
1985
A spacefaring sci-fi mini-RPG. The 1st edition was 16 pages;
2nd was two books 32 pages each. It was set in a
<a href="GAME#traveller"> Traveller</a>-like space
empire. The system included rules for the usual sci-fi conventions
of starships, robots and aliens.
Castle Falkenstein
Michael Pondsmith
1994
R Talsorian
A Victorian fantasy game, set in an alternate Earth with magic,
elves, dwarves, and other strangeness. The genre is rather
adventure pulp rather than period Victorian fiction. The system
uses cards rather than dice, where both players and GM have a
hand of cards that they play from for resolving actions.
Castle Perilous
James T. Sheldon
1980
West Wind Simulations
A fantasy-genre RPG, emphasizing storytelling aspects. The
system is class-based (9 classes), and has modifiers on resolution
for acting and enthusiasm on the part of the players. For the
magic system, the player must describe six parameters of a spell
from memory - such as color, hand motion, and physical manifestation.
For each one missed there is that chance that the spell fails.
The set includes an introductory adventure and setting, possibly related
to novels by John De Chancie (?).
Castles and Crusades
Davis Chenault
Mac Golden
2004
Troll Lord Games
A fantasy-genre RPG with a simple rules-lite system, similar to
and roughly compatible with pre-third editions of
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">Dungeons & Dragons</a>.
Character creation involves rolling up six ability scores (Strength,
Dexterity, Constitution, Intelligence, Wisdom, and Charisma),
choosing a race (from 7 options) and a class (from 13 options).
Action resolution is based on 1d20 + attribute modifier + level -
penalties vs target number. Target number is 12 for primary
attribute rolls, or 18 otherwise.
Cat
John Wick
2004
Wicked Dead Brewing Company
A modern fantasy game appropriate for children and adults, where the
PCs are cats who protect people from Boggins -- evil creatures that
people can't see (like the Man Under the Bed) which feed on
children's fears and rejoice in men's shortcomings. Cats also venture
to the surreal Kingdom of Dreams. It uses a narration-focused
dice-pool system, the "Advantage" system, where extra dice can be
acquired by looking for advantages your character has in a particular
situation, each of which earns an extra die.
I Cavalieri Del Tempio
Andrea Angiolino
Giuliano Boschi
Agostino Carocci
Massimo Casa
Luca Giuliano
1990
E.Elle
A peculiar Italian-language time-travel RPG, when players play
the role of knights templar, whose soul travel from various
places and times to the most important events of the history
of mankind. They try to make sure that History goes as it
should.
Cendres
Stephan Chapuis
2002
Editions du Matagot
A French-language post-apocalyptic science fiction RPG, whose name
translates as "Ashes". It is set in Europe a hundred years after an
asteroid strike (?) swept all the coastal regions in a tidal wave and
ashes turned the sky dark for a year. It uses a skill-based system,
of roll under stat on 1d20. Character creation is random-roll or
point-bought stats (4d6 among seven main attributes, or distribute
100 points). There are also six personality attributes. It includes
a detailed combat system including hit locations and a split of
shock and wound damage.
The Centre of the Universe
Richard Parkinson
2004
Timeless Games
Better Mousetrap Games
204
Special
2004
232
A science fantasy RPG, where gunslingers right alongside sapient
suits of armor and sorcerors. It is set in a time when the fabric
of reality is unraveling, at the Centre of the Universe -- a small
fantasy region with floating islands (called marques) and small towns,
with a mixture of medieval and early modern technology. Evil forces
are undoing the whole of creation. It uses a skill-based system using
d6's for resolution. Character creation is class-based, choosing from
eight profiles: Adventurer, Architect (Wizard), Bard, Crusader,
Dream Crafter (Illusionist), Gunslinger, Sentinel (Ghostly Armor),
and Story Teller. Each class comes with a starting skill sets, but
new skills unrelated to class can be added with experience.
Century's Edge
Louis Hoefer
2009
Whole Sum Entertainment
436
A turn-of-the-century RPG that mixes history with popular Victorian
novels such as Dracula and Robur the Conqueror. It uses a step-die
system where each attribute is assigned a positive die and negative
die. Resolution is by rolling both dice, taking the higher absolute
value, with the the result being negative or positive depending on
which die is higher. Character creation is by picking an Archetype
that determined positive attribute die values, and a Background that
determines negative attribute die values. The 10 Archetypes are
Combatant, Outdoorsman, Rapscallion, Engineer, Scholar, Aristocrat,
Believer, Illuminatus, Gnostic, and Jack. The Backgrounds include
Militant, Affluent, Educated, Installed, Hard-laborer, Skilled-Laborer,
Secretive Past, Privation, and Unrefined.
C'era una volta
Francesco Lutrario
1994
Carte Segrete
An Italian-language RPG for children, whose mission is to prevent
traditional fairy tales from being changed by some evil entity.
The title translates as "Once Upon a Time".
Chainmail
Gary Gygax
Jeff Perren
1971
Guidon Games
2nd
1972
An early set of medieval miniatures rules which was the
precursor to the original
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">Dungeons & Dragons</a>.
Chain of Being: The Fantasy Roleplaying Game of Epic Absurdity
J.T.T. Williams
Cory Katzenmeyer
Dan Geyer
Justin Williams
2002
Limestone Publishing
A humorous fantasy RPG set in a fantasy world ("Paranesia") where
the gods have been replaced by drunken louts who have messed up the
gameability of everything. It has the usual fantasy elements such
as elves, dwarves, orcs, and mages -- along with many humorous
additions. It is available using the original "Higher Arc"
system and also as a supplement for third edition
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">Dungeons & Dragons</a>
(aka d20).
Challenges Game System
Tom Moldvay
1986
Challenges Game Systems
A medieval fantasy mini-RPG (8 pages), similar in mechanics to
<a href="GAME#advanceddungeonsanddragons">AD&D</a>.
Champions
George MacDonald
Steve Peterson
1981
Hero Games
2nd
1982
3rd
1984
4th
George MacDonald
Steve Peterson
Rob Bell
1989
A superhero roleplaying game, later (in the 4th edition) converted to
a generic universal system (aka the "HERO" system). Action resolution
is roll under skill on 3d6, with special target numbers for combat
(11 + offense - defense) and pure attribute rolls (9 + attribute / 5).
Character creation is an innovative open point system, the first of
its kind. A pool of points can be spent on attributes, skills, and
on customizable superpowers. The power design metasystem is a complex
but highly-regarded piece which can be used for almost any power.
Champions: The New Millenium
George MacDonald
Steve Peterson
Ray Greer
Mike Pondsmith
1997
R Talsorian
2nd
2000
R Talsorian
A comic-book superhero RPG set in a revised version of the
<a href="GAME#champions">Champions</a> universe, where
nearly all of the prior superheroes of the world have been wiped
out by a cataclysm, and a new generation of heroes (including the
PCs) must replace them. It uses a completely revised set of mechanics,
the <a href="GAME#fuzion">Fuzion</a> system.
Changeling: The Dreaming
Brian Campbell
Jackie Cassada
Richard Dansky
Chris Howard
Steve Kenson
Ian Lemke
Angel Leigh McCoy
Deena McKinney
Neil Mick
Wayne Peacock
Nicky Rea
Michael Rollins
1995
White Wolf
2nd
Ian Lemke
1997
A modern fantasy game about faeries struggling in the modern
world. "Banality" of current existance threatens them.
It uses a variant of the "Storyteller" system.
Chaos 6010 A.D.
Brandon Williams
2008
Arcanum Syndicate
300
A dark sci-fi RPG, set in a post-apocalyptic future where humans and
an ancient alien race (the eldrynn) have formed a theocratic empire
that rules using a mix of magic and technology. The game is set shortly
after a horde of demons from another dimension (Nacadia) have begun invading
through the largest Soul Gate. It uses a step die system where attribute
or skill rank is converted on a universal table to a die roll. Rank 10
is 1d6; rank 20 is d8+d6; 30 is d20+2d6; etc. Character creation is
class-based.
Chaos on Campus
Chris Engle
2005
Hamster Press
96
A pregenerated scenario book using the minimalist Engle Matrix Game
system. The first game has students at Miskatonic University in
the 1920's fighting Lovecraftian horrors. It also includes another
scenario, "The Grave Yard Shift", about mad scientists, juvenile
delinquents and spooky undertakers walking in the graveyard at night?
The system has explicit negotiation of arguments and results, but
leaves the chances for the negotiated outcomes entirely up to the GM.
Chaos University
Jennifer Schoonover
2005
Firewater Productions
A tongue-in-cheek modern-day fantasy RPG, set in an alternate future
where in May of 2008 a rift tore opened in Binghamton, New York which
returned magic into the world. As part of the rift being tore open,
Merlin was freed from his magical bonds. He subsequently came to
America and founded "Chaos Univisity" on the site of the rift.
It uses a simple system of rolling under attribute on 1d30
(alternately, 3d10 or 5d6). Character creation is by deciding on
a clique (Jock, Goth, etc.); plus random-roll attributes (Cunning,
Grit, Nimbleness, Appeal, Hocus-Pocus, Lady Luck, and Vitality); and
a selection of courses which you are going to take at the University.
It includes a detailed magic system, and a simple combat system.
Chasis: Sistema universal de Juegos de Rol
Omar Vigó Álvarez
2019
self-published
A Spanish-language universal RPG system.
Chasseurs de Monstres
unknown
1999
Hachette
A French-language fantasy mini-RPG intended for children. this
game (a 10-pager) was included in a book about mythology,
folklore and standard (i.e. ghosts & vampires) monsters, for
children.
Chi-Chian the Roleplaying Game
Chris Adams
Barbara Manui
David Fooden
2003
Aetherco
A science fantasy RPG based on the comics and animated series of the
same name, by animation auteur Voltaire. The series is set in a
fantastic 31st Century New York City, where giant worms offer a
clean form of public transportation, and New Jersey has become an
armed and deadly enemy. The series explores the political and
spiritual tensions among the City's dwellers: its Japanese elite
and their rogue security force, the Patahn Pahrr; sentient insect
races like the cultured Cockroaches and the nefarious Caterpillars;
and outsiders and freaks like the teddybear scientist Dr. Yoshimoto
and the title character Chi-Chian, a half-Japanese girl with an
invincible organic suit of armor.
Chilren of the Sun
Lewis Pollak
Dan Ross
Jac Grenfell
2002
Misguided Games
A 'dieselpunk' fantasy RPG set on an original world, called "Raevich".
The world is full of technology as well as magic. It uses a step-die
system, the "Token System", where each of nine attributes (3 physical,
3 mental, and 3 social) have a die type associated with them (d4,
d6, or d8). Action resolution varies among three types of tests,
roughly the attribute roll plus skill (0 to 10) vs difficulty. There
is also a speical mechanic where character has a "token" that can be
spent once in each round of combat, either to support another
character's action or to interrupt an action.
Chill
Gali Sanchez
Garry Spiegle
Mark Acres
Ethan Sharp
Michael Williams
1984
Pacesetter
2nd
David Ladyman
Jeff R. Leason
Louis J. Prosperi
1990
Mayfair Games
A generic horror roleplaying game. The PCs are members of a
centuries-old organization called S.A.V.E. dedicated to fighting
evil, which includes a number of psychics. The monsters are
mostly traditional (vampires et al.), which use different powers
from a unified set of "Evil Way" disciplines. <br>
1st edition uses a percentile skill-based system, checking degree
of success vs difficulty on a universal table. Character
creation is random-roll attributes and point-bought skills. <br>
2nd edition uses a completely revised system.
Chimaera Roleplaying Universe
Michael D. Murphy
George T. Singley
2008
Mongoose Publishing
240
A superhero role-playing game set in the universe of a new comics brand of the same name, headed by George Singley. It uses a new percentile skill-based game system. Basic resolution is the 1d100 + stat + modifiers must exceed 100. For opposed rolls, the opponent with the higher stat rolls d100 plus the stat different, while the opponent with the lower stat rolls a flat d100. Character creation is a mix of random-roll and point-bought mechanics. There is a core list of over one hundred powers with general descriptions.
Chimères
Jean-Luc Bizien
1994
Multisim
A French-language historical RPG, sequel to
<a href="GAME#hurlements">Hurlements</a>. The PC's are Dragons
(i.e. top-ranking were-creatures in the Hurlements world),
incarnated on Earth to experience life.
Chivalry and Sorcery
Ed Simbalist
Wilf K. Backhaus
1977
FGU
2nd
1983
3rd
Ed Simbalist
G.W. Thompson
1996
Highlander Designs
Light
Edward E. Simbalist
Wilf K. Backhaus
Steve C. Betney
1999
Brittania
Rebirth
2000
A fantasy-genre role-playing game, based on medieval Europe with
the addition of elves, dwarves, etc. The original uses a complex
system with skills and level-based advancement, including an
involved combat system. The complex magic system mixes fantasy
magic like fireballs with authentic alchemy, witchcraft, and
enchantment. Mages must spend time enchanting materials and
tracking degree of enchantment. <br>
The 3rd edition introduces a unified mechanic (the "Skillscape"
system) using 3d10: a percentile roll under skill for success,
and a "crit die" determines quality of success/failure. There
are min and max chances of success, but skill below min or above
max counts by modifying the crit result. The "Light" rules are a
simplified version of the 3rd edition rules (in a 40-page
booklet).
Chock
Gali Sanchez
Garry Spiegle
Michael Williams
1985
Target Games
A Swedish-language translation of Pacesetter's
<a href="GAME#chill">Chill</a>. It has 1 sourcebook and 4
adventures which were published over a period of 2 years before
being abandoned.
Chosen
Aaron Rosenberg
2001
Clockworks Games
A science fantasy RPG about a far-flung future where the PC's are
people imbued with the spiritual powers of the archetypal Beasts --
dragons, gryphons, manticores, etc. -- who fight evil conspiratorial
Wizards.
Chronica Feudalis: A Game of Imagined Adventure in Medieval Europe
Jeremy Keller
2009
Cellar Games
A historical RPG set in medieval Europe, written in the conceit of being
written by a 12th century monk and translated. It uses a simple system
created for the game. Character creation is by choosing three mentors,
and choosing three Aspects. Each mentor defines a set of skills
(from a list of 24 skills) that will increase, while Aspects are
player-defined descriptive tags. Each character also starts with
3 Ardor and 3 Vigor. For resolution, each skill has a die rating
from 1d4 (unskilled) to 1d12 (master). The player rolls a die for skill
along with an optional die for tool and an optional 1d8 for a positive
Aspect (which costs 1 Ardor) - or the player may omit one die for
a negative Aspect and gain 1 Ardor. Each die over a target number
is one success. In combat, characters may either take injuries or
lose a point of Vigor.
The Chronicles of Ramlar
Tony Lee
Alana Abbott
Benji Blailock
John Prescott
Michael Johnston
Pyran Taylor
Shane Wilson
Wayne Sykes
2006
White Silver Publishing, Inc.
A medieval fantasy RPG, set on the continent of Eranon on a world
created by the creator god Ramlar. It is populated by elves, dwarves,
halfling, and others. The game uses a percentile skill-based
system known as the A/B System, short for Armor/Body as shown by the
hit location chart on the character sheet. Resolution is by roll
under skill on percentile dice, with level of success being the roll
itself. Character creation is class-based with level-based
advancement.
Chronicles of Skin
2011
Cobweb Games
A storytelling game for 3-5 players intended for play in either 90 minutes
or 3 hours depending on mode. Each player has three roles: Artist,
Other and Scribe. As Artist, a player draws the events of the story.
As Other, a player creates characters for the story and guides them.
As Scribe, a player invents locations and sets up the world. Players
draw from a custom deck of 72 cards to create flags, which they use to
determine traits for two cultures at war.
Chronos
Francois Suter
1993
Les Createurs Genevois
A French-language cross-genre, time-travel RPG.
Class Dismissed!
Ashok Desai
2008
Sane Studios
68
A modern-day tabletop role-playing game where the player characters
are high school students, engaged in various trouble and adventures.
It includes optional brief rules for magic as well.
Classroom Deathmatch
Jake Richmond
Matt Schlotte
2007
Atarashi Games
106
A modern-day action/horror RPG based on the Japanese 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 -- a variant of the
system in <a href="GAME#pantyexplosion">Panty Explosion</a>.
Cloak of Steel: Gigantic Metal Warriors Clash in the World of Tierplana
James Desborough
Steven Mortimer
Raven Morrison
2004
Postmortem Studios
217
An electronically-published fantasy RPG, using a variant of the
<a href="GAME#livesystem">Live System</a> -- intended to be
a more free-flowing variant of the D20 System of third edition
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a> and
<a href="GAME#d20modern">D20 Modern</a>. It is set on
the original world of Tierplana, a fantasy world with magic-powered
giant robots and airships inhabited by humans and human-animal
hybrids called Half-Men. Character creation replaces classes
with packages of skills and feats.
Code of Unaris: Chat Roleplaying
Gary Pratt
2004
Goldleaf Games
314
A science fantasy roleplaying game designed for play over online chat.
The basic game contains rules and background for two fantasy ages --
both set a billion years ago on Earth's own moon, but divided by 5000
years. The Third Age of Unaris is magically rich, when the world is
covered in shallow oceans with a medieval culture undergoing renaissance
under the eye of a pantheon of gods. The Fourth Age of Unaris is set
in the freezing world where the remnants of civilization are backsliding
in a giant tower which wards off the cold.
Codex: Story Gaming for Creative People
Malcolm Sheppard
2007
Mob United Media
27
A universal mini-RPG system aimed at text-based games, especially
those played by forum or weblog.
Codex
Zsolt Nyulászi
1996
Imperium
A Hungarian-language fantasy RPG.
The Cog Wars
Zero
JL Williams
Dmitri Arbacauskas
Robert Earley-Clark
Levi Kornelsen
Tony Lower-Basch
Stephen Lea Sheppard
2008
Amagi Games
A tongue-in-cheek steampunk fantasy game set in the city of Tiran,
a center of science and education in a fantasy world - where mechanical
men known as "Cogs" have just begun to appear and even sometimes become
self-aware. The player characters are rebels fighting evil geniuses
known as Masterminds who are corrupting the city. It uses a highest
die d6 dice pool system, where the player rolls a number of dice based
on trait (1-3) plus a possible bonus for one character condition and
one target/environment condition. This is opposed by another die roll,
taking the highest die and moving to the next highest in the case of ties.
The higher roll narrates the result of the action. Character creation
includes picking one of three Kinds (Kid, Geezer, or Cog); one of three
Virtues (Cunning, Daring, or Graceful); and one of five Vocations
(Mystic, Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, or Scout). Each of these is then
tailored by adding a player-defined trait.
Cold City
Malcom Craig
2006
Contested Ground Studios
A modern-day horror game about supernatural investigators in Cold War
Berlin circa 1950, fighting monsters amidst the national tensions. It
uses a contested dice pool system where you roll a number of d10s
equal to the most applicable of three attributes: Action, Influence or
Reason. You may add one die for an applicable Trait. The side with
the highest die wins.
Cold Space
Albert Bailey
clash bowley
2005
Flying Mice LLC
128
A science fiction game set in an alternate history between 1949 and
1989, where anti-gravity and faster-than-light (FTL) technology was
been discovered by scientists following World War II. The Cold War
between the United States and the Soviets then played out in space
as well as on Earth. This uses a version of the percentile skill-based
system from the <a href="GAME#starcluster">Starcluster</a>
RPG. Character creation can be either random-roll or point-bought
attributes, and a lifepath mechanic for each year over 10, which
generates skills, metaskills, and attribute improvements.
Cold Steel Reign
Patrick Ellison
2005
Mad Hermit Games
A Wild Western Fantasy RPG set into an alternate history/reality where
the world has been plunged into a dark ages by a comet strike in
Northeastern America during the height of the Civil War. The nominal
start time is two hundred years later in a Wild West of a transformed
world, including demonic mechanical constructs ("Vyl"), a repressive
New Roman Church, gunslinging Templars, and more. It uses an original
system, the "Fatalist System". It uses roll under skill on percentile
dice, or stat + die versus a target number for combat. Character
creation uses attributes with a random-roll base plus 100+1d100
of points, random-roll advancement cost per level, selecting one
of ten classes, and rolling three random skills based on class.
The classes are Bladesman, Gambler, Gunman, Mountain Man, Revivalist,
Rifleman, Scout, Shootist, Brave, Gunslinger.
The Collectors: The Burning House
Thomas MacKay
2003
Rogue Publishing
83
A modern-day horror game where the PCs are demonic (but not
necessarily evil) beings who perform tasks required for them.
It uses a variant of the
<a href="GAME#fudge">FUDGE</a> system, and includes
an introductory adventure entitled "The Burning House".
Colonial Gothic
Richard Iorio
Monica Valenrinelli
Matt McElroy
James Maliszewski
2007
Rogue Games
220
A supernatural historical horror roleplaying game set during the dawn
of the American Revolution. Resolution uses rolling 2d12 under a
target number based on stat.
The Colonies
Brett M. Bernstein
2002
Politically Incorrect Games
67
A science-fiction RPG published as a downloadable PDF. It is set on
Mars in the year 2099. There are five distant colonies established on
other systems from seeding ships launched in 2030 when disaster
loomed. The PC's are colonists seeking to reclaim the Earth from
aliens who invaded it. It uses a simple rules set of roll under
stat on 2d6. The rules include systems for biotech, nanotech, and
psionics.
Comandos de Guerra
Juan Carlos Herreros Lucas
1990
self-published
2nd
1994
Ediciones Cronópolis
3rd
2003
Ediciones Sombra
A Spanish-language World War II RPG, including action on the
European and Pacific fronts. Character may be soldiers or
civilians. The game system uses a single 3d10 roll indicate
check, sucess level, location and damage. This was originally
self-published as a set of home-made booklets in 1990, under the
imprint title "Alas de Dragón."
Combat!: A Military Action Game
William Andersen
2005
ComStar Media, LLC
A modern military action RPG using a variant of the
<a href="GAME#action">Action! System</a> from Gold Rush Games.
It includes rules for mass combat to handle command of units, ships,
or complete armies.
Commando
Eric Goldberg
Greg Costikyan
John Butterfield
1979
SPI
A modern military tactical wargame and RPG, set in WWII. It used
a complex table-driven percentile system. Combat was action
point based.
The Committee for the Exploration of Mysteries
Eric J. Boyd
2007
Eric J. Boyd Designs
116 page 6" x 9" perfect bound softcover
A storytelling game of exploration inspired by pulp novels and
Victorian adventure tales, where play consists of characters
recounting to each other about the adventure they have just had.
It is designed to be playable with no pre-game preparation, with
play resolving in a single evening or continuing over multiple
sessions. Players take turns recounting scenes, where you describe
how you overcame a hazard chosen by another player who acts as your
opposition. You roll dice based on the attribute used and special
traits, then you put forward a die and start narrating the scene.
After a bit, your opposition gets to add a complication, you put
another die forward, and the cycle continues until you meet the
hazard's difficulty or run out of time. There is a three minute
maximum. You receive varying amounts of Acclaim points depending on
how many dice you used in meeting the hazard's difficulty.
La Compagnie des Glaces
Jean-Pierre Pecau
1986
Jeux Actuels
A French-language sci-fi RPG, based on a series of novels of the
same name by G.J. Arnaud. Set in a future where the Earth is
covered by ice, and the only civilization that remains is
a group of enormous trains. It uses a percentile skill-based
system.
The Company
Newt Newport
2009
D101 Games
216
A modern-day military RPG, where the PCs are active military - such as
soldier, pilot, or surveillance officer. The core book includes
information about Trouble hot spots, terrorist organisations, and
competitors to the Company. It uses a modified version of the
<a href="GAME#openquest">OpenQuest</a> system by
the same author. Two scenarios are included in the core book:
"Operation Bluebeard" and "Operation F.I.S.H and C.H.I.P.S".
The Complete Warlock
unknown
1975
The SPARTAN
Robert Cowan
Dave Clark
Kenneth M. Dahl
Nick Smith
1978
Balboa, Inc.
56
This was a variant of <a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">
Dungeons & Dragons</a>. It which originally appeared in
issue #9 of "The Spartan" simulation gaming journal as an article
entitled "Warlock: or How to Play D&D Without Playing D&D".
It later appeared as a product from Balboa, Inc. It had two
supplements, "Warlock's Tower" in 1979 (with new monsters, new
rules for thieves, and many new magic items) and "The Warlock
Menagerie" in 1980 (with over 100 new monsters and other new
material).
Conan: The Role-Playing Game
Paul Tucker
Ian Sturrock
2003
Mongoose Publishing
2nd
Ian Sturrock
Gareth Hanrahan
2007
Mongoose Publishing
A fantasy RPG based on the novels by Robert E. Howard. It is set
in the "Hyborian Age" -- a mythic time in what will become modern
Europe and Northern Africa. Various precursors to early cultures
and races are found. This is a complete game using variant of the
D20 System of third edition
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a>.
It adds rules for fate points, reputation, and corruption.
PCs start with 3 fate points, gaining 1 per level, which can be
used to avert death ("Left for Dead"), added damage ("Mighty Blow"),
reduce corruption ("Repentance"), or to impose a plot twist
("Destiny"). Combat is changed by having armor which reduces
damage (i.e. DR instead of raise Defense); and special combat
maneuvers, which are qualified for by prerequisites of attributes,
skills, and/or feats.
Conan: The Role-Playing Game
David "Zeb" Cook
1985
TSR
A fantasy RPG based on the novels by Robert E. Howard. It uses a
very simple skill-based system aimed at beginners. A d100 roll
is cross-referenced with modified skill on a universal table
(similar to <a href="GAME#marvelsuperheroes">Marvel
Superheroes</a>) to give a color-code result:
green(easy) / yellow / orange / red(hard).
The boxed set includes a 2-page adventure based on Howard's
"Tower of the Elephant" story and a "World of Hyboria" booklet
set up in glossary style.
Confederate Rangers
unknown
1989
SoLar-Way Games
A near-future sci-fi RPG in a future where 13 Southern U.S. states
secede after federal corruption becomes intolerable, forming
a new Confederacy. The PCs are Confederate Rangers: high-tech
lawmen with old-time values.
Conspiracy of Shadows
Keith Senkowski
2004
Bob Goat Press
120
Revised
2005
154
A mixed fantasy genre game, described as "X-Files meets grim historical
fantasy". It is set on a fantasy world, Polian, similar to medieval
European history and legend. There is a demonic conspiracy at work,
though the details of this are not specified but left partially open
for the GM to define. Action resolution uses 2d6 + attribute + skill
vs difficulty. You get an extra dice if a positive descriptor comes
into play, and one less if a negative descriptor. Character creation
is limited point-based, with professions defined as packages of skills.
Conspiracy X
Rick Ernst
Shirley Madewell
Chris Pallace
1996
New Millenium
2.0
David F. Chapman
2006
Eden Studios
An alien-conspiracy role-playing game (i.e. X-files), focusing
on members of a secret government organization which defends
against an alien menace. The system is a simple granular one
where skill (1-5) is compared to difficulty (1-5). If skill
equals difficulty, roll 7 or less on 2d6. If skill equals
(difficulty+1), roll 4 or less. The damage system, on the other
hand, is more complicated. cf. the
<a href="http://www.conspiracyx.com/">official website</a>.
Contenders: A Role-Playing Game of Blood & Sweat, Pain & Hope
Joe J. Prince
2006
Prince of Darkness Games
A GMless role-playing game about professional boxers, focusing on the
seedy underbelly of the boxing world and personal struggles.
It has a scene resolution mechanic using playing cards similar to
<a href="GAME#primetimeadventures">Primetime Adventures</a>.
Each player takes a turn to define a type of scene for their character,
and the scene's conflict is resolved by drawing a number of cards for
the character and the opposition. If the player has more red cards,
he succeeds in the scene. Whoever has the highest card, though, gets
narration rights. The type of scene determines what stats are affected
by success or failure. Boxing fights have a further system of selecting
strategies for each round. After a character reaches a certain score
in his reputation stat, the endgame is reached and players determine
if the boxers have achieved their dreams.
Contes ensorcelés
Antoine Bauza
2005
7ème Cercle
48
A French-language children's fantasy RPG, whose title translates to
roughly "Bewitching Tales". (This is a professional release based
on an amateur RPG publication.) It is set on a flat world that humans
share with imps, fairies, and goblins. The PCs are youthful wizards
and witches who all can fly on broomsticks. It uses a simple system
where you roll 2d6 over a target number based on a universal chart
that crosses your stat (with three named levels) and difficulty
(rated 3 to 10).
Continuum: Role-playing in the Yet
Chris Adams
Barbara Manui
David Fooden
1999
Aetherco
A time-travel game where the time-travel machine itself is the
human body: just "span" and you're there. There is a community
of time-travellers, but the past is essentially inalterable. The
skill system is a simple one of roll d10 under skill. A d10 is
also useed for all damage and other rolls. Character creation is
point-based, distributing 25 points over 3 attributes (Body, Mind,
and Quick) and skills, plus ads and disads.
Control
Lee Garvin
1997
Reality Cheque Games
A conspiracy-genre RPG focusing on characters not in-the-know
learning about the Truth. As part of character advancement,
players can to advance to become GM (aka "Controller"). The
mechanics are built on having binary qualities, where the number
of appropriate qualities you have determines your dice pool, and
take best roll (d20's).
Cooperation
Charles J. Walther
1998
Cooperation
A sci-fi space-opera RPG, where mankind and five other alien
races stand against the Yadeze, giant evil aliens with the
requisite space armada. It uses a percentile system with a lot of
stats and skills. Character creation has attributes point-bought
(from a pool of 250+6d10), and then a lifepath-like acquisition
of skills.
Corporation: The Roleplaying Game
James Norbury
2006
Core Games Publishing Ltd
Revised
James Norbury
2008
Brutal Games
A science fiction RPG set in 2500 A.D. where five monolithic corporations
have taken over the globe, which has been badly damage by corporate wars
over the centuries. The technology ranges up to biotechnology, AI,
plasma weapons, personal teleporters and invisibility shields -- as
well as limited telepathy. It centers on enhanced corporate Agents
who take on missions for their corporation. It uses an open skill-based
system. Action resolution is by roll under attribute + skill on 2d10,
where attributes and skills both range from 0 to 10 for normal humans.
CORPS
Greg Porter
1990
BTRC
2nd
1995
Originally a modern-day conspiracy genre game, this was expanded
in the 2nd edition to be a universal generic system. It uses a
basic d10 roll of skill vs difficulty, with free point-bought
character creation. The damage system is notable for not having
hit points, but instead impairment of body parts (which can be
unlimited) combined with bleeding and a chance of instant death.
Correlya
Matthew Davenport
2004
self-published
2nd
2007
234
A fantasy genre game set on an original world of the same name,
inhabited by elves (the primordial race) and the various races
they created to be their slaves including humans, gnomes, channelers,
elamorphs, elapidons, mantids, oakbellies, shellbacks, triclops,
and zepherai. There are also three outlier races not created this
way: vampires, aeternalifs, and gremlins. It uses a complex system.
Skills are divided into three "spheres" -- Mental, Visceral, and
Rogue. As you advance in each sphere you gain a variety of special
abilities. The basic game includes details on life in Correlya and
its features, though no monsters. The second edition is self-published via
<a href="http://www.lulu.com/content/377803">Lulu.com</a>.
Cortex System Role Playing Game
Jamie Chambers
2008
Margaret Weis Productions
A universal system "toolkit" book, based on the step-die mechanic system
used in the <a href="GAME#sovereignstone">Sovereign Stone</a>
fantasy system, <a href="GAME#serenity">Serenity RPG</a>,
<a href="GAME#battlestargalactica">Battlestar Galactica RPG</a>.
Attributes and skills are rated in a a step die system with twelve ranks:
d2, d4, d6, d8, d10, d12, d12+d2, d12+d4, d12+d6, d12+d8, d12+d10, d12+d12.
Action resolution is by rolling attribute die plus skill die. Characters
have six attributes (Agility, Strength, Vitality, Alertness, Intelligence,
Willpower), along with skills and advantages. It also includes a plot
point mechanic.
Cosmic Enforcers
Mike McCune
Gary Sibley
Jerry Holland
Eric Nikkila
1995
Myrmidon
A sci-fi superhero RPG set in a universe where in 2025AD a
galactic alliance finally unites 7 races. A dark force seeks to
bring chaos by striking down the alliance, resisted by the
superhero "cosmic enforcers". Includes magic, psionics,
superpowers, and various ultra-tech.
Cosmic Patrol
Matt Heerdt
Randall Bills
Jason Schmetzer
2011
Catalyst Game Labs
A sci-fi storytelling RPG of "Rockets and Rayguns!" set in a future
based on the Golden Age of science fiction, inspired by E.E. "Doc" Smith,
Harry Harrison, Robert Heinlein, and Philip Francis Nolan along with
the radio series including X Minus One and Dimension X. The player
characters are Patrolmen of the Cosmic Patrol. It uses a system
of rotating GM ("Lead Narrator"). It uses a step-die system, where
resolution is by the player rolling 1d12 plus the appropriate attribute
die vs. the Lead Narrator's 1d20 roll. Attributes are Brawn, Brains,
Charisma, Combat, and Special (defined as the character's specialty).
Players may spend Plot Points to modify rolls, regain health points,
or add a plot twist.
Courtesans: A roleplaying game of sex and society
Ian Warner
2011
Postmortem Studios
276
A roleplaying game set in Victorian Demi Monde, where the player
characters are society prostitutes who compete for money and influence
in their circles while sharing a house. Character creation begins by
choosing a class-like "origin" - including Actresses, Professionals,
Fallen Ladies, Goldenhearts, Schemers and Upstarts. During a session, or
season, Courtesans procure admirers, complete actions such as conversation,
sex and spying, then attend the Cyprian Ball. The characters collect
five categories of experience: Legend, Reputation, Wealth, Influence,
and Scandal. It uses a variant of the "Beer and Crisps" mechanics from
the <a href="GAME#urbanfaerie">Urban Faerie</a> and
<a href="GAME#toughjustice">Tough Justice</a> games,
though there is no combat system.
Covenant: a story game of failing conspiracies
Matt Machell
2006
Realms Publishing
108
A modern day conspiracy game about members of a conspiracy whose
predicted apocalypse never happened. It uses a narration mechanic
where conflicts between characters are resolved by players taking
turns describing how positive and negative traits impact the outcome
of situations. It also has a mechanic for bringing in recurring
motifs and highlighting agreed genre conventions.
Covert Generation
Caz Granberg
2006
Hefty Wrenches Game Design
108
A modern espionage game about child secret agents rebelling against
The X, a secret cabal of ex-slackers who now rule the world through
coercion and legalistic thuggery. Teen and tween agents collaborate
in Cells across the world to fight the man in all his forms. It uses
a narration-based dice pool system, with a core pool of three
dice with added or subtracted dice for applicable "Core Components"
(Core Value, Attributes, Specialty and Cover Identity).
Coyote
Tibor Király
2005
Delta Vision
A Hungarian-language RPG set in the American Old West.
Coyote Trail
Brett M. Bernstein
2005
Politically Incorrect Games
An RPG set in the American Old West, an update of an earlier game
called "Shady Gulch". It uses a variant of the genreDiversion system
also used by <a href="GAME#hardnova2">HardNova ][</a>.
Action resolution is by rolling under attribute + skill on 2d6, with
special rules for "Triumph" and "Calamity" criticals. Character
creation is limited point-based, spending 10 points on five attributes
ranging from 1 to 5 (Fitness, Awareness, Reasoning, Creativity, and
Influence); 30 points on broad skills; and selected Gimmicks (i.e. ads
and disads). It includes simple rules for chases and combat, with 5
wound levels in 3 types (Injury, Fatigue, Intoxication). The basic
game includes a set of Wild West personalities, ready-to-play
adventures, story ideas, reference sheets, and numerous character,
horse, and wagon templates.
Creation's End: A Religious Horror RPG
Michael Holder
2005
Creation's End Management Group
Winterwolf Publishing
A modern-day religious horror RPG, inspired by films such as
Stigmata, Prophecy, The Seventh Sign, Constantine, and
The Exorcism of Emily Rose. Character creation includes a
choice of seven bloodlines: fallen angel, darkling, dustform,
angyl, prophet, aboreth, and slayrre.
Creeks and Crawdads
M. Martin Costa
1986
Crustacium Games
A humorous post-nuclear-apocalypse mini-RPG (24 pages) where
the PC's are mutant semi-intelligent crawdads. After nuclear war
wipes out all human life, these crawdads attempt to rebuild.
However, the crawdads are still quite stupid, and thus require
IQ rolls to attempt almost any activity.
The Creep Chronicle
Richard Parkinson
2006
Better Mousetrap Games
Timeless Games
A horror RPG where the player characters are children trapped alone
in a warped version of the modern world where gods and monsters
stalk city streets and lurk in farmers' fields.
Crepúsculo
Christiano Chaves
2000
Akrito Editora
"Twilight" -- A Portuguese-language supernatural conspiracy RPG
set shortly before a looming apocalypse. It is the middle of what
may be the last battle between Order and Chaos for the dominance
of the world. The two Gods have their pawns in secret societies,
orders and sects that face each other in open combat or
treacherous conspiracies.
Crime Fighter
Aaron Allston
1988
Task Force Games
A police RPG with simple rules; simulates the sort of campy
police story found in TV shows such as "Adam-12". The rules were
counters/miniatures oriented, and 104 playing pieces and 12
mapboards were included in the boxed set.
Crimefighters
David "Zeb" Cook
1981
TSR
A pulp adventure mini-RPG (23 pages) published in <u>Dragon</u>
magazine #47. It uses a simple percentile system. Character
creation is random-roll attributes, point-bought binary skills,
and a 5% chance of a random special power.
Crime Network: Cosa Nostra
Brendan Davis
2010
Bedrock Games
105
A modern-day crime RPG, where the player characters are mobsters trying
to work their way up within the organization. It uses a d10 dice pool
system (the "Network System"), rolling dice equal to skill and comparing
the highest roll to difficulty or opposing skill. Rolls of 10 are
open-ended. Character creation is purely skill-based - there are no
attributes.
Crimson Cutlass
George Rahm
Joseph Hilmer
1979
Better Games
2nd
1989
A swashbuckling RPG using the "Free-style"/"Quick & Dirty"
game system. The 1st edition was published in magazine format,
while the 2nd edition as a boxed set of three 5"x8" perfect-bound
books. Action resolution uses a homemade Spanish tarot deck
included with the boxed set. The system has 4 "traits" (Dashing,
Cunning, Stout, and Lordly); four backgrounds (Soldier, Commoner,
Aristocrat, and Noble); and various skills based on background
(fencer, briber, goldsmith, equestrian, etc.). Books 2 and 3
cover scenario design, including extensive tables of randomized
storylines and encounters.
Crimson Empire
Chris Loizou
2002
Crimson Empire
310
2nd
2004
A fantasy-genre RPG set on an original world: the world of Thargos.
It is set 150 years after the Crimson Empire was destroyed by the
Great Cataclysm. Now the Northern region seeks to rebuild the
empire, resisted by the South. The world is inhabited by
humans, elves, dwarves, and dergs along with various other creatures
such as centaurs, dragons, and various original creatures. It uses
a detailed percentile system, with a combat system that strives for
realism. It also includes a magic system. Character creation is
random-roll attributes, choice of race and class, and modifiers for
region, childhood, and inheritance. The second edition was
renamed <a href="GAME#cursedempire">Cursed Empire</a>.
It features a "Points of Renown" experience system, where some
characters can align themselves with a faction instead of themselves
as individuals. Then if their character dies, the player can create
a new PC with the same faction at a head start.
Critical!: Go Westerly
Geoff Bottone
Jonathan Lavallee
2012
Firestorm Ink
160
A humorous fantasy RPG about adventurers fighting monsters and
collecting treasure. The GM is called the Bartender, and all characters
have an Alcohol Content (or "AC") score. Character creation is point-buy,
with player-generated skills such as "Been Raising Pigs Forever" or
"Shred on the Theorbo (or Other Stringed Instrument)". Skills are divided
into four categories: Help You, Help Others, Hurt Others, and Cheating.
Resolution is by rolling 2d6 under a success number from your stat and
difficulty (or opponent's stat). A roll of exactly the success number
is critical, which includes success along with both something good and
something bad extra.
Critter Commandos
2000
Paul Arden Lidberg
2000
Crunchy Frog
132
A humorous miniatures combat game where the combatants are modeled
after Saturday morning cartoon characters, and that the damage caused
by the weapons isn't really real. The "2000" edition includes
role-playing rules including 10 pages of mechanics and 35 pages
of background.
Cthulhu Dark Ages
Stephane Gesbert
2004
Chaosium
176
A variant of the classic <a href="GAME#callofcthulhu">
Call of Cthulhu</a> horror RPG set in Europe around 1000 A.D.
Rather than randomly rolling for attributes, players allocate 100
points combined to the eight attributes.
Cthulhu Live
Robert McLaughlin
Dan DePalma
Scott Nicholson
Cyndy Schneider
1997
Chaosium
2nd
1999
Fantasy Flight Games
Robert McLaughlin
3rd
2006
Skirmisher Publishing
Live-action role-playing rules for <a href="GAME#callofcthulhu">
Call of Cthulhu</a>, intended mainly for large groups and/or
convention events.
Cthulhutech
Matthew Grau
Fraser McKay
2008
Wildfire LLC
Catalyst Game Labs
A storytelling game that mixes the genres of cosmic horror
(such as H.P. Lovecraft) and giant mecha Japanese animation.
It is set in the year 2085, when the world is emboiled in the
Aeon Wars fighting alien horrors and three-quarters of the
world's population has been wiped out. Resolution uses a
dice pool system where you roll a number of d10s equal to attribute
plus skill, and take the sum of the highest matching set or straight
(i.e. rolling a pair of sixes gives total 12, or a sequence of 4-5-6
gives total 15). The system also uses drama points, which can raise
or lower any dice pool by one die per point spent. Character creation
is limited point-based.
Cursed Empire
2nd
Chris Loizou
2004
Spartans Unleashed
This is the renamed second edition of the fantasy genre RPG,
<a href="GAME#crimsonempire">Crimson Empire</a>.
Cutthroat Roleplaying
Nathan Kaylor
Eric Goldberg
1988
StormWorld Games
A dark fantasy RPG where characters are thieves in the medieval
city of Skaev. The world is immersed in chaos, as the peaceful
75-year reign of Emperor Ghalish has come to an end. A
skill-based resolution system using d20's.
Cyb: Gioco di ruolo in un lontano futuro
Andrea Angiolino
Giuliano Boschi
Agostino Carocci
Massimo Casa
Luca Giuliano
1991
Kappa magazine #1-2
2nd
1998
Qualitygame
An Italian-language cyberpunk RPG, set in the 26th century where
genetically-manipuated plants have become intelligent and taken
control of the Earth. The PCs are byborg human rebels. The title
translates as "CYB: Role-playing Game in a Far-off Future". The
rule system uses playing cards instead of dice. You score your
stat with a card for an easy check, with a card of a certain color
for a difficult check, or with a card of the same suit for a very
difficult check. It was originally published in Kappa magazone
in issues #1 and #2 of the third year (1991). The second edition
was part of the "I Giochi del 2000" collection.
Cybergeneration
Mike Pondsmith et al.
1993
R Talsorian
2nd
1995
A post-cyberpunk futuristic game featuring nano-technology and an
anime-style feel, with super-powered "cyber-evolved" and a mix of
grim reality and light-hearted adventure.
CyberGladiators
David L. Pulver
Marc A. Vezina
Scott Bennie
Patrick Sweeney
2004
Firefly Games
60
A duelling game, not really role-playing per se, about gladiatorial
combat between cyborg combatants in the far future. It uses a scaled
back version of the <a href="GAME#action">Action! System</a>
from Gold Rush Games. There are four races: humans, Tuara (a lizard-like
race of primitives), Kisa (a bipedal cat-like race), and the Crigg
(a primitive insect-like species with deadly mandibles and natural
armor). Character creation is limited point-based and includes
various cybernetic options.
Cyberpunk
Mike Pondsmith et al.
1988
R Talsorian
2020
1990
A cyberpunk role-playing game, focusing on paramilitary violence
and netrunning. It uses a simple attribute+skill+1d10 roll system
(the "Interlock" system).
Cyberspace
Tod Foley
Terry K. Amthor
LaDell
Kevin Barrett
S. Coleman Charlton
1989
Iron Crown Enterprises
A cyberpunk RPG set in 2090 in the San Francisco Sprawl. It
focuses on netrunning, and on personal biotech enhancements
which are very common. The classes include Jockey (generalist),
Killer (combat), Net Junkie (computer), Sleaze (social skills),
Sneak (subterfuge), and Tech Rat (technical). It uses a slightly
streamlined variant of the
<a href="GAME#spacemaster">Space Master</a>
system (but not as simplified as
<a href="GAME#middleearth">Middle Earth</a>).
Cyborg Commando
Gary Gygax
Kim Mohan
Larry Mentzner
1987
New Infinities
Boxed set of three books: 48, 64, and 15 pages
A sci-fi RPG, playing cyborgs soldiers fighting an alien invasion
of Earth by Xenoborgs in 2035. It included background on both the
cyborgs defenders as well as the invading aliens (biology, society,
and culture). The system used a roll of 1d10 times 1d10 for an odd
probability curve that is referenced on a universal chart. The
system had a handful of supplements, including "Film at Eleven"
(by Guy McLimore, Greg Poehlein, and David Tepool).
Cycle of Existence
Christopher Ashe
2006
Broken Doll Studios
330
A modern fantasy/horror RPG, set in the modern world with creatures
and magic inspired by Japanese anime. The PCs are part of a secret
war of Light against the forces of Balance and Darkness. There are
four races: humans (known as the Lirie-Kana or "People of the Struggle");
the childlike and graceful Asana-Lea (known as Eternal Children); the
man-like rats called the Oraki known for their craftsmanship and love
of adventure; and the elf-like Silana (the People of the Ether). It
uses an original percentile skill-based system, called the seven13
game engine. Each action is given a rank from 1 to 7, which corresponds
to a chance of 13% times the rank (13% to 7x13=91%).
D20 Modern
Bill Slavicsek
Jeff Grubb
Rich Redman
Charles Ryan
2002
Wizards of the Coast
A generic modern-day fantasy RPG. There is no canonical setting, but
three brief sample settings are included in the core rulebook: "Shadow
Chasers" (secret monster-hunters), "Agents of PSI" (secret agents
with psychic powers), and "Urban Arcana" (D&D advanced to a
modern age). The rules are a standalone system based on the
D20 System used by 3rd edition
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a>.
The classes are redone, with a generic set of six classes for beginning
characters: Strong Hero, Fast Hero, Tough Hero, Smart Hero, Dedicated
Hero, and Charismatic Hero. Also, there are abstract wealth rules,
additional rules for firearms, and altered nonlethal damage.
There is an expansion supplement called "D20 Future" which
covers science fiction settings.
d4-d4 roleplaying game system
Kyle Schuant
2004
Better Mousetrap Games
Goshu Otaku
89
A generic role-playing system, described as best for modern or future
campaigns, of relatively short duration. (Longer campaigns may result
in the characters becoming too proficient.) Action resolution is a
die roll of two four-sided dice, the one subtracted from the other
and added to a Trait, and compared to a Difficulty level. Traits
are rated with a 11-step descriptive scale such as "Djim is an
Outstanding Cook," or "Jane is a Middling Swimmer". This is similar to
the 7-step scale in <a href="GAME#fudge">Fudge</a>.
Character creation is point-based, speding 20 levels (or variable
depending on power level) on your character's traits. You may take up
to 5 levels of "Bad Stuff" (standard disadvantages), gaining you that
many extra levels to spend on other abilities.
The D6 System
George Strayton
1996
West End Games
A universal RPG system based on the system used in WEG's
<a href="GAME#ghostbusters">Ghostbusters</a> and further
developed in WEG's <a href="GAME#starwars">Star Wars</a>.
The universal D6 system book was published much later as an alternative
to WEG's less popular <a href="GAME#masterbook">MasterBook</a>
universal system. The universal system adds advantages and disadvantages
to the point-based character creation.
Daemornia
Michael Lirko
2005
Better Mousetrap Games
Daemornia Games
210
A post-apocalyptic science fantasy game, set in a future where demonic
forces invaded Earth but were beaten back with the help of strange new
races. Now the Earth is under seige, with guarded "techno-communities"
while most learn melee weapons, magic, or psionics. It includes a
system with 7 character races, 16 different career paths, magic and
psionics, and a collection of demons and monsters.
Daikatsugeki
unknown
unknown
unknown
A Japanese-language historical RPG, set in the Edo period. It is
based on various TV samurai dramas. This is a fairly stable
period, so adventures are about fighting crime and solving
mysteries rather than war. It uses a dice-pool system: roll
(skill) d20's where each die over the difficulty is 1 success.
Character creation is point-bought attributes and choice of two
packages: surface profession (omote) and real profession (ura).
Dallas
James F. Dunnigan
1980
SPI
A card-game / RPG based on the TV soap opera. The boxed set includes
cut-apart cards for major characters from the series, along with a
16-page rulebook, 16-page book of characters, and a 16-page
"Scriptwriter's Guide". Character attributes include power,
persuasion, coercion, seduction, investigation, and luck.
The Dance and the Dawn
Dev Purkayastha
2009
FGJ Games
44
A fairy tale romance game for 3-5 players, with its own setting
centered on the imagery of chess. The player characters are all Ladies
at the Ice Queen's court in search of their One True Love among
several Lords, and each Lady is represented by a chess piece with
associated traits. The Narrator controls the Queen, Duke, and Lords.
Play is divided into three dances, with duels as potential interludes
between the dances. During each dance, the Ladies move with their
partner around the board and exchange questions to gain the Lord's
favor and understand their past. At the end of the game (in 1-2 hours
real time), each Lady must pick a Lord and find if it is their
One True Love.
Dance of the Damned: A storytelling game of Decadence and Despair
Andrew Peregrine
2010
Corone Design
A GMless storytelling game based on "The Masque of the Red Death"
by Edgar Allan Poe, designed to play in a session of around one hour.
It uses standard deck of playing cards, and each player tries to
force cards from their hand onto the other players. The characters
are trapped together in a castle, engaging in wine and vice to mask
the fear and paranoia they are feeling. The suits of the cards guides
how scenes play out, and these scenes build the story of the castle.
There is no official winner of the game, but victory could be implied
if one of the players manages to steer the events to a fate they wanted.
Danger, International
L. Douglas Garrett
George MacDonald
Steve Peterson
1985
Hero Games
A modern espionage/action RPG, using the 3rd edition
<a href="GAME#champions">Champions</a> system. This is the
retitled 2nd edition of <a href="GAME#espionage">Espionage</a>.
It does not include any of the powers rules, and instead has information
covering a host of modern action genres: from crimefighting to
post-apocalypse and alien invaders. It introduced vehicle chase
combat rules and specific martial arts rules, later adopted into
4th edition <a href="GAME#champions">Champions</a>.
Dangerous Journeys
Gary Gygax
Dave Newton
1992
GDW
A three-volume fantasy-genre RPG ("Mythus", "Mythus Magick",
"Epic of AErth"). It uses a skill-based system. Character
creation has random-roll attributes, and skills determined either
by picking a "vocation", or by creating your own vocation. There
are 18 attributes: 3 categories (Physical/ Mental/ Spiritual),
each with 2 subcategories (Muscular+Neural/ Mnemonic+Reasoning/
Metaphysical+Psychic). Each subcategory has attributes for
capacity, power, and speed: each determined by 2d6+8.
There were three additional books published over the next year:
"Necropolis", "Mythus Bestiary", and "Mythus Prime", plus
two magazines (Journeys and Mythic Masters Magazine). After that
the game disappeared over legal dispute with TSR (cf. the
GDW entry for details). cf. the
<a href="http://www.mythusmage.com/">official website</a>
Danger Quest: Pulp Adventures in the 24th Century
Dave Matalon
Andy Mello
2002
Torchlight Games
A pulp science-fiction RPG, set in the 2330's where a long-standing
anti-technology trend has resulted in old-style appearing gadgets
such as flying cars. The game centers on Newmerica, which is threatened
by a Nazi-like empire in Europe and others.
Daredevils
Bob Charrette
Paul Hume
1982
FGU
A pulp-era action and mystery game. It uses a variant of the
<a href="GAME#aftermath">Aftermath</a> system, with
simplified combat and the complex elements made optional. Character
creation is skill-based and point-bought. It includes a detailed
skill list, source material on the 30's, and a section on special
powers (a la "The Shadow").
Dark Conspiracy
Lester W. Smith
1991
GDW
2nd
1998
Dynasty
A near-future horror role-playing game, in a future where
environmental devastation, urban sprawl, and corporate greed are
worsened by little-known supernatural alien horrors that have
taken over swaths of land known as "demonground". The system is
a skill-based (a variant of the GDW house system), using d10
(1st edition) or d20 (2nd edition).
Dark Continent: Adventure & Exploration in Darkest Africa
David Salisbury
Mandy Smith
2001
New Breed Games
A historical roleplaying game of Victorian era adventure within
Africa, inspired by the work of Burton and Livingstone.
The boxed set included two paperback books: the 112-page Player's
Guide and the 144-page GM's Guide. There are also two A5 booklets
(5.75 x 8.25"): a Victorian traveller's guide to exotic Zanzibar
(A Gazeteer of Zanzibar) and a catalog of the fictional Topan
Trading Company (Catalog of Goods). The set also included two
A3 (11 x 17") player maps of Maasailand and of Abyssinia.
It uses a simple skill-based system, with action resolution by
rolling under character's skill on 1d10. There are details on
long-term movement, outfitting, mass combat, and morale. An
expedition has stats derived from its collective membership which
are used to resolve large-scale tasks.
The Dark Fantasy of Sundrah
T. Glenn Bane
2007
Scaldcrow Games
96
A fantasy RPG set in an original world, Sundrah, ruled by evil gods
resisted by human rebels -- along with other races including
angels, dwarves, goblins, gremlins, hobgoblins and trolls.
Player characters may also include a sorcerous hybrid of human
and any animal, designed by the player. Character creation involves
choice from 23 professions including hoplite and galloglaich.
Dark Nova Roleplaying Game
1st
Breandán Ó Ciarraí
Orren Fansler
Martin Fox
2012
Dark Nova Games
495
A science fiction RPG set in the early 24th century, centered on a loose
collection of nation-states called the Terran Alliance of Nations -
populated by humans along with dozens of aliens who have discovered FTL
(including 9 suitable as player characters). Threats include pirates,
organized crime, hostile aliens, as well as internecine warfare.
Character creation includes 9 attributes under the three broad groups
of Physical, Mental, and Social. There are five broad categories of
profession (academic, socialite, combat arms, adventurer, tech), with
6 classes in each. Action resolution includes skill checks based on
rolling 3d10 under skill as well as combat based on rolling over a
target number (based on class) on 1d20. Advancement is by level.
Darkpages
Ashcan
Jared Sorensen
Jason Roberts
2008
Memento Mori Theatricks
65
A game inspired by horror and crime comics - with amoral anti-heroes and
stories of sex, violence, pain, tragedy, betrayal, and rare redemption.
Character creation includes choosing one of nine Concepts: Vigilante,
Vampire, Outsider, Ghost, Freak, Elemental, Construct, Beast, or Adept.
Dark Realms
Ryan S. Johnson
John L. Ross
1997
Guild of Blades
96
2nd
2004
Guild of Blades
A generic fantasy RPG system. The first edition was printed as a
96-page digest-sized book. It uses a universal results table,
crossing skill minus (difficulty or opposing skill) with a 1d12
roll for a degree of success. Character creation is class-based,
with ten classes including archer, woodsman, and knight, as well
as warrior, wizard, and rogue. Advancement is level-based, with
randomized skill points for each skill slot gained.
Darksword Adventures
Margaret Weis
Tracy Hickman
1988
Bantam/Spectra
A fantasy RPG set in the world of Weis' and Hickman's
<u>Darksword</u> novels, sold in trade paperback format
following the novels. It uses a simple system ("Phantasia") with only
five stats: Combat, Prowess, Information, Shape, and Life.
It uses "paper-rock-scissor" to resolve conflicts.
DarkTown: The Apocolyptic Cycle
Roger McReynolds
Ben Reading
1998
Propaganda Publishing
Gold Rush Games
A science-fantasy RPG set in a future on the verge of cataclysm,
as science begins to falter and rumors of mystical and mythical
occurences come about. The "apocalyptic cycle" are Science,
Religion, and Magic which are in conflict.
DarkUrthe LEGENDS
Colin Murcray
Matt Yarrow
1993
Black Dragon Press
A "dark" fantasy role-playing game, set on an original world.
Character creation is class-based, including race-specific
classes, guild-associated classes, and generic classes.
It includes a magic system of designing spells from various
defind components. A 2nd edition is planned under the title
"Myth & Legend".
Darkus Thel
Donald C. Moehlenkamp
Kurt Moehlenkamp
James August Mohow
1986
Sorcerers Guild
Book Two
1994
Book Two
1986
A fantasy genre mini-RPG, with an original world background along
with monsters such as dragon-equivalents called "drakens" and
"sabercats". The system is based solely upon D6 dice.
Darkwood
Steve Garnett
2001
Tower Games
A fantasy role-playing game set near Sherwood Forest of the
Robin Hood legends. The system uses roll under attribute +
skill on 1d20. Character creation is limited point-based.
Das Schwarze Auge
Ulrich Kiesow
1984
Schmidt Spiel & Knaur Verlag
2nd
1988
3rd
Ulrich Kiesow
Ina Kramer
Michelle Melchers
Thomas Römer
1992
4th
2001
FanPro
4th (English)
2004
FanPro
Fast Forward Entertainment
A popular German-language heroic fantasy RPG, set in a traditional
fantasy world called Aventurien -- i.e. elves and dwarves, with
cultures mostly based on medieval Europe. The rule system
is complex although with few tables, using mostly d20 although
with d6's for damage. Character creation is class and
level-based, with random rolls in creation and development.
There are seven good attributes and seven bad attributes for each
character. It includes a magic system with a skill for each spell.
In the 4th edition, the random elements were replaced with a
point-buy system, and classes were replaced by race, culture,
and profession. The history of Aventurien grows with the
"Aventurische Bote", the official magazine, and with every
adventure that is published.
Dawg: the RPG
Ashok Desai
2009
Kenzer & Company
A humorous mini-RPG about playing dogs. It uses simple roll-over
percentile system for most resolution. Characters are defined by
six attributes: Brawn, Hustle, Dodge, Alertness, Human Handling,
and Animal Magnetism. Character creation involves choosing your
breed of your dog and lifestyle - with strays having greater street
skills, but being less healthy than pets. Characters also have
various special abilities ("Tricks"). This was originally published
in the comic book Knights of the Dinner Table #150, and later released
electronically on its own.
Dawnfire
Jason Marin
2000
Committed Comics
A fantasy genre RPG set on an original world. Each PC uses
magic from a type of "Flow" -- magical energy that radiates from
the three suns above Dawnfire. The three flow types are Warrior,
Shaper, and Rogue. Races include humans, Garin (fox-creatures),
Dracos (half-dragons), winged Aerials, Trolls, Makir, and
Minotaurs. It uses a skill-based system with 10 attributes.
Action resolution is by rolling under stat on 1d20, where 20 is a
critical failure and 1 is a critical success.
Dawn Patrol
Mike Carr et al.
1982
TSR
A WWI air combat game and RPG, a version of the boardgame
<u>Fight in the Skies</u> with expanded rules giving more
emphasis on the pilots as characters. cf. the
<a href="http://www.dawnpatrol.org/">semi-official website</a>.
DC Heroes
Greg Gorden
Sam Lewis
1985
Mayfair
2nd
Ray Winninger
Thomas Cook
Dan Greenberg
1989
3rd
Bryan Nystul
1993
A superhero RPG set in the DC comics universe. This uses a
unique system (later dubbed "MEGS" for "Mayfair Exponential
Gaming System") intended to handle attributes ranging from Robin
(2) to Superman (50) on the same scale. Resolution is by
rolling stat+2d10 versus 2d10 + difficulty modifier. cf. Josh's
<a href="http://w3.one.net/~joshdm/dc/dcgenfaq.html">
DC Heroes FAQ</a>.
DC Universe Roleplaying Game
Fred Jandt
Nikola Vrtis
1999
West End Games
Another superhero RPG set in the DC comics universe. It uses a
variant of the "D6 Prime" system (from <a href="GAME#herculesandxena">
Hercules & Xena</a>. It is a dice pool system rolling d6's
where 3-6 is a success (special dice are provided with red and blue
faces for this) plus a special "wild die". Character creation is
point-based.
deadEarth
J.T. Smith
Chris Hagness
Michael Helfman
1999
Anarchy inK
174
A post-nuclear-apocalypse survival RPG, published electronically.
It uses a d6 dice-pool system with random-roll character creation
including a vast selection of hundreds of mutations.
Dead Inside: The Roleplaying Game of Loss & Redemption
Chad Underkoffler
2004
Atomic Sock Monkey Press
128
A horror RPG set in the modern world alongside a fantasy setting,
the Spirit World. The PCs by default are "Dead Inside" humans who
have lost part of their souls, though there are also options to play
Ghosts, Magi, Sensitives, or Zombies. They collect soul points for
spiritual cultivation, for acting good in various ways, following
Virtues and overcoming Vices. It uses a simple system called
Prose Descriptive Qualities (PDQ) system. Character creation is
by choosing a type, 2 to 4 keywords which give bonuses, and a weakness.
Action resolution is by 2d6 + bonus vs difficulty.
Deadlands: The Weird West
Shane Lacy Hensley
1996
Pinnacle
A western fantasy-horror game, set in an alternate history where
magic and monsters begin appearing around the time of the Civil
War. The system is a skill-based dice-pool system, where
attribute determines die type (d4,d6,d8,d10,d12,d20) and skill
determines number of dice.
Deadlands: Hell on Earth
Shane Hensley
1998
Pinnacle
A post-apocalyptic fantasy-horror RPG, set in the year 2094 in a
possible future of the <a href="GAME#deadlands">Deadlands</a>
universe. In 2081, the Reckoners (masters of the evil manitou spirits)
break through into the world. It uses a variant of the
<a href="GAME#deadlands">Deadlands</a> system. New character
types are psionic "Sykers", mutant "Doomsayers", magic warrior
"Templars", and mad-scientist "Junkers".
Deadlands: Lost Colony
John R. Hopler
2002
Pinnacle
A sci-fi/fantasy/horror RPG, set in a distant star system in a
possible future of the <a href="GAME#deadlands">Deadlands</a>
universe. Thirteen years ago, the colony, known as "Faraway", was cut
off from Earth by the Last War. Now three million humans are trapped
on this world alongside ten times that many angry aliens.
It uses a variant of the
<a href="GAME#deadlands">Deadlands</a> system.
Dead Night of Space: Psibertroopers
Ron Fricke
Scott Palter
2003
Final Sword
A space opera RPG, set in a future where a group of psychics (known
as "Psibers") sought a better life in space. They were captured to
serve as hosts for a dying alien race called the Cey. The Psibers
were able to thwart the Cey's plans and in the process take over
their planet and all of the Cey's technology, including giant
robots and ships with wormhole-like technology. Now they are
increasingly in contact with their ancestors, the humans, as well
as other species. The PCs are on the front line of these scenarios
as the "Psibertroopers". It uses the
<a href="GAME#d6">D6 System</a> originally
developed by West End Games, with the addition of the
"Chesspiece Goon System" which simplifies handling of minor NPCs
by eliminating die rolls.
Dead of Night
Merwin Shanmugasundaram
Andrew Kenrick
2005
Steampower Publishing
2nd
2010
A horror movie role-playing game published in a small, "pocket"
format for ease of pick-up games. It is based on classic horror
movies (vampires, zombies, werewolves, and the like), and nominally
set in the generic American town of Chaddlestone. It uses a very
simple system, with options for playing the victims or monsters, as
well as for distributed game-mastering. Resolution is by rolling 2d10
versus a target of 15 (for standard rolls) or 10 + opponent's stat
(for contests). Characters are defined by four stat pairs:
Identify/Obscure, Persuade/Dissuade, Pursue/Escape, and
Assault/Protect. There are no separate skills, but a stat may be
specialized in an openly-defined manner. Characters also have
Survival Points, which function both as damage and hero points.
Each failed combat roll costs one point. Survival Points can also be
spent for different effects: to reroll, gain initiative, flip a stat
pair, find a clue, or cancel another Survival Point expenditure.
Characters begin with around five, and more are earned for rolling
doubles (or rolling 13 for monsters), advancing the plot, cool
descriptions of your actions, resting for a full scene, and by acting
out horror movie cliches. Character creation is limited point-based.
Dead Reign: Zombie Role-Playing Game
Josh Hilden
Joshua Sanford
Kevin Siembieda
2008
Palladium Books
A zombie horror role-playing game, using a variant of
the <a href="GAME#palladiumfantasy">Palladium System</a>.
The game includes six character classes (O.C.C.s), including the Reaper,
Shepherd of the Damned, Hound Master, Apocalyptic Soldier, Scrounger,
and Ordinary People. There are seven types of zombies plus the
Half-Living described as opponents.
Deathstalkers: The Fantasy Horror Role-Playing Game
Mike Whitehead
2001
Cutter's Guild
2nd
Mike Whitehead
Joe Meyers
2003
474
A fantasy horror RPG set on an original fantasy world, inhabited by
18 races including the typical dwarf, elf, and gnome plus others
including lizard-man, minotaur, half-dragons, half-dead, and half-cat.
Action resolution is percentile skills and stat + 1d20 for combat.
Character creation involves choosing a racial archetype and a character
class (out of 32), along with point-bought skills. The racial archetype
gives special abilities, languages, class restrictions, and the basic
number of d6's to roll for each attribute. The ten attributes are
Knowledge, Mental Tolerance, Leadership, Courage, Strength,
Endurance, Beauty, Agility, Speed, and Hit-Points. Advancement
is level-based.
Decartha Prime: Science Fantasy in a Shifting World
2000
Hubris
A storytelling game.
Deeds Not Words
Scott Lynch
2002
Cryptosnark games
A superhero RPG using a variant of the D20 System from 3rd edition
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a>.
De Eloquentia
Paolo Fasce
Alessandro Gatti
Teo Mora
Paolo Parrucci
1996
Qualitygame
An Italian-language storytelling fantasy game, part of the
"I Giochi del 2000" collection. The title is latin and means
"About The Art Of Speaking". It can supposedly be played even
without a GM.
Deepsleep
William Levy
1988
Godiva Productions
A post-nuclear-apocalypse RPG where players play themselves as
visitors to a secret government research installation when World
War III breaks out. The players then place themselves in
suspended animation and wake up in some bizarre setting of the
GM's choice. (Rule system unknown)
Degenesis: Das Endzeit Rollenspiel
Christian Günther
Tim Struck
2001
Degenesis
A German-language post-apocalyptic RPG, originally published as a
free RPG on the web. It is set in post-apocalyptic Germany, in
the devastated area where the rivers Rhine and Main meet. Several
clans are struggling for power over the region. The system uses
action resolution by rolling 1d20 against the sum of an attribute
and a skill. Characters are defined by their five attributes and
several skills. The damage system involves three hit locations and
a pool of life points.
Deliria
Phil Brucato
2003
Laughing Pan Productions
A modern fantasy about mortals in the modern world who interact with
the faerie domain. Action resolution uses stat + random modifier
vs difficulty -- using either cards or dice to allow for live-action
play. It includes a faerie magic system, and extensive rules for
social and spiritual conflict.
Delta Force
William H. Keith, Jr.
1986
Task Force Games
A modern military/espionage RPG about elite anti-terrorist
units, including U.S. Delta Force, British SAS, etc. The system
includes lots of detailed weapon statistics.
It includes 3 hostage adventures.
Demon City Shinjuku RPG
David L. Pulver
1999
Guardians of Order
A supernatural action/horror RPG based on the Japanese animated
movie, where in the near future the heart of Tokyo is transformed
by the tyrannical Levih Rah into a "Demon City". The game uses
the "Tri-Stat" system introduced in
<a href="GAME#bigeyesmallmouth">Big Eyes, Small Mouth</a>.
Demon Hunters Role Playing Game
Jamie Chambers
Brian Clements
Jimmy McMichael
2008
Dead Gentlemen Productions
Margaret Weis Productions
A modern-day horror RPG based on the cult film of the same name.
The player characters are members of a holy organization of warriors
fighting to prevent Hell on Earth, known as the Brotherhood of the
Celestial Torch or simply "Demon Hunters." It uses a variant of
the "Cortex" system originally developed for the
<a href="GAME#sovereignstone">Sovereign Stone</a> RPG.
The game includes a copy of the 30 minute cult film on DVD.
Demons and Saints
Michael Holder
2015
Darklore Publishing
A dark fantasy RPG set in the modern world where fallen angels battle to control prophecy.
It has its own system, where character creation uses random-roll and selecting from categories
to generate bloodline (race), morality, weapons, skills, spells, and equipment.
Action resolution uses attribute + skill + 1d20 vs. target modifier.
Demon's Lair
Dan Hensel
Al Seeger
Dave Schmitz
Gino Holland
1997
Lasalion
A medieval fantasy RPG, set in the world of "Terrania" with 6
continents each with a tower at the center. It is inhabited
humans, elves, and dwarves as well as other races such as
dakhans. It uses a step-die system. Character creation has
classes (fighter/thief/mage/cleric/...) and skills, and a mix of
random-rolls and point-bought stats.
Demon: The Fallen
Carl Bowen
2002
White Wolf
A modern-day horror RPG, where the PCs are demonic spirits who have
been incarnated in human bodies within the "World of Darkness" setting
of <a href="GAME#vampirethemasquerade">
Vampire: The Masquerade</a> and other games. The demons are
partly sympathetic in that they fought against God to empower humanity.
Being trapped in the pit for thousands of years, they are now alien and
only understand the world through the human part that they inhabit.
It uses a version of the Storyteller dice pool system used by the
other World of Darkness games.
Demos Corporation
unknown
1995
Ventrue Editora
A Portuguese-language espionage RPG published in Brazil, with a
complex rules system.
De Profundis
1st [Polish]
Michal Oracz
2001
Portal
1st [English]
Michal Oracz
2002
Hogshead Games
32
A modern-day horror RPG designed for play over mail. Originally
published in Polish, and translated into English. The players write
in-character letters to each other, describing their progressive
exploration of (or victimization by) eldritch nightmare forces. There
is no GM; it's up to the players to interlink their stories. It
also suggests the option of "field psychodrama" -- where the players
use elements from their real life in the stories.
The Deryni Adventure Game
1st
Aaron Rosenberg
Ann Dupuis
Jennifer Brinn
2005
Grey Ghost Press
A fantasy RPG based on the popular "Deryni" series of fantasy books
by Katherine Kurtz, about a race of humans in medieval times with the
gift of magic -- the Deryni. The system is a modified version of the
<a href="GAME#fudge">Fudge</a> system.
O Desafio dos Bandeirantes
Carlos Eduardo Klimmick Pereira
Flávio Maurício de Andrade
Luiz Eduardo Ricon de Freitas
1992
GSA Editora
A Portuguese-language fantasy RPG published in Brazil by 'Editora
Art Bureau editora de arte LTDA' / GSA Editora. Roughly translated,
the title means "The Challenge of the Explorers". It is set in an
original fantasy world based in Brazilian history and folklore,
named 'Land of St. Cross' (one of the early names for Brazil
during the Colonial period). Character creation uses classes
such as fighters, wizards, and other common types. Characters
may include Portuguese bandeirantes, native scouts, miracle-working
Jesuits, native shamans, Yoruba medium-priests, and even
Hermetic European "warlocks". Combat is resolved using 2d10 +
weapon or dodge skill, while non-combat tasks are resolved using
1d100 roll under skill. (It uses d20, d10 and d6.) The game includes
a number of monsters including native beasts such as the anhangüera
(demon-possessed fire-breathing animals), kanaíma (cannibals
reincarnated as werejaguars) and jurupari (nightmare spirits
who strangle people in their sleep), as well as more prosaic fare --
vampires, werewolves, mermaids and even the Devil itself.
There are at least three sourcebooks:
"A Floresta do Medo/O Engenho" (two adventures);
"Os Quliombos da Lua" (setting expansion, detailing a fortress deep
in the wilderness built by rebel african slaves); and
"O Vale dos Acritós" (detailing the region of the
savage giant native Acritós and their culture).
Desolation: A Post-Apocalyptic Fantasy Roleplaying Game
Jamie Gooch
Stephen Herron
Matt Somers
2008
Greymalkin Designs LLC
A post-apocalyptic fantasy RPG, set on the high fantasy world of Scondera
18 months after a cataclysm nearly destroyed it. The Night of Fire killed
90% of the population of Scondera as fire rained down, the ground split,
the oceans rose, mythical beasts awoke, and magic lashed out. Whole
regions have been changed magically and geographically, locations have
been picked up and placed elsewhere, creatures have been twisted, and
the whole fabric of civilisation broken. The game uses a variant of
the "Ubiquity system" also used by
<a href="GAME#hollowearthexpedition">Hollow Earth Expedition</a>.
Desperados
Dave Schacter
1991
Skycastle Games
A western genre RPG, using a skill-based percentile system.
Diana: Warrior Princess
Marcus L. Rowland
2003
Heliograph, Inc.
A curious, and humorous, modern fantasy game. It is set in the present
as re-imagined thousands of years from now -- in a manner parallel to
how "Xena: Warrior Princess" treats ancient Greek myth and culture.
So it is a romanticized fantasy of our present, which conflates and
confuses all sorts of information about our present. Thus it centers
on the mighty heroine Diana (recently divorced from Bonnie Prince
Charlie) and her sidekick Fergie running about, thwarting the
machinations of the evil Queen Elizabeth, as well as those of the
dark god of war, Landmines.
Diaspora: hard science-fiction role-playing with fate
B. Murray
C.W. Marshall
T. Dyke
B. Kerr
2009
VSCA Publishing
A hard science fiction RPG, in a loose setting where groups of star
systems are connected by wormholes called Slipstreams, which starships
can jump between through use of a Slipstream Drive. It uses a variant
of the FATE system (Fantastic Adventures in Tabletop Entertainment) from
<a href="GAME#spiritofthecentury">Spirit of the Century</a>,
including simplified stunts as well as extended star system
generation rules.
Dice & Glory
Robert A. Neri Jr
2007
Ranger Games
A generic rule system focused on fantasy. Action resolution uses
1d20 + skill versus difficulty. Character creation uses
random-roll of attributes, choice of class, and point-bought skills.
The generic classes are: Brick, Fighter, Adventurer, Rogue, Mage,
Psychic and Clergy.
Digital Burn
T.R.Williams
Joe Chan
Ryan Kelley
Sean Kelley
Toby Leonard
Gary McBride
Jason Middleton
Austin Mills
Patrick Quarles
Aaron Robb
Brian Spencer
Tico
Mike Williams
2002
Living Room Games
A cyberpunk game, intended as a setting and general cyberpunk
sourcebook for use with the
<a href="GAME#d20modern">D20 Modern</a> system.
It is set in a near future (circa 2017) where a series of natural and
man-made disasters between 2008 and 2012 killed off about 30% of the
world population in a period commonly known as "The Burn". Deaths include
disasters involving genetically modified crops as well as a new lethal
sexually transmitted disease dubbed "Black Molly". Genetic engineering
is now widely banned and replaced by cybernetics. The rules include
nine advanced classes as well as new rules for cyberware, netrunning,
and other advanced technology. The advanced classes are Blank
(i.e. anonymous but connected street-dweller), Cop, Fixer, Ganger,
Hacker, Icon (i.e. celebrity), Medico, Merc, and Spanner (general
technician, esp. electronics).
Dime Heroes
Todd Downing
1999
Deep7
11
A very simple 1930's pulp action mini-RPG published in electronic PDF format.
It uses a version of the "1PG" system, which (as its name implies) fits
on a single page. Resolution is rolling 1d6 and getting under attribute
or skill, where 1 is always success and 6 is always failure.
Character creation includes rolling 1d3 to determine attributes (Moxie,
Glitz, Cunning, and Grey Matter), then spending 1d6 points your skills,
with no skill higher than 3. The basic game is 11 pages, and has a 15
page "Jungle Adventures" supplement.
Dinky Dungeons
Denton R. Elliot
1985
Doc's Games
A fantasy-genre mini-RPG published in a 3''x5'' ziplock bag(!).
It has 2 attributes (Physical and Mental) which are randomly
determined, and 3 classes (Fighter, Wizard, Bard). All rolls are
on 2d6. Combat is by comparing Physical of attacker and defender
on a chart. Other rolls (Muscle or Idea rolls) are all the same
chance of success, but higher attribute lets you try more rolls
per day. There are no skills per se. cf. Steffan O'Sullivans
<a href="http://www.io.com/~sos/rpg/dinky.html">
Dinky Dungeons page</a>.
Dirty Secrets: a game about crime
Seth Ben-Ezra
2007
Dark Omen Games
148
A game based on the film noir crime genre, with narrative control
mechanics where one participant plays the main character, and the
other players take turns as the primary game-master. When not being
primary GM, they act as advisors with veto power over the primary.
The conflict resolution system is a slightly modified version of the
Liar's Dice game, where everyone rolls a number of dice secretly and
take turns bidding higher numbers for a total. There is a "crime
grid" where suspects are included, and the guilty party is determined
semi-randomly among the suspects.
A Dirty World
Greg Stolze
2008
Schroedinger's Cat Press
70
A film noir RPG, using a variant of the "One-Roll Engine" from
<a href="GAME#godlike">Godlike</a> and
<a href="GAME#reign">Reign</a>.
Characters are defined by pairs of opposed stats, where your rating
in one stat limits your rating in the other. Characters have three
pairs of attributes (called "Identities"), and each pair has two pairs
of skills (called "Qualities"). Patience/Cunning has Qualities
Generosity/Selfishness and Demonstration/Observation. Vigor/Grace has
Qualities Courage/Wrath and Endurance/Defiance. Understanding/Persuasion
has Qualities Purity/Corruption and Honesty/Deceit. ORE Noir does not
use hit locations like other ORE systems, but instead has a more general
damage that can be used for both physical and social conflicts.
Discordia!: A Little Game About a Lot of Chaos
John Wick
2005
Wicked Dead Brewing Company
A modern-day conspiracy RPG, where players take the roles of
Discordian double agents infiltrating the world's greatest
conspiracies. It uses a dice pool system where you find "fives" in
the die roll. It also includes a system of "dogma" (the power your
Illuminati grant you) and "catma" (your degree of Discord) that
determines what magic powers your conspirator has. Characters have
freeform stats reminiscent of Robin Law's
<a href="GAME#overtheedge">Over the Edge</a>.
Every time a character uses a "dogma" power, she runs the risk of
flipping to the dread Triple Agent status. The game includes a number
of scenario ideas, with a nod to Robin Laws' "Cut-Up" story mechanism
using randomly drawn words on slips of paper.
Les Divisions de l'Ombre
Philippe Chouvel
Christophe Guy
1989
Flamberge
A French-language sci-fi RPG, set in a near future (2030's) where
freedom fighters struggles against fascist, alien-controlled
authorities. The boxed set includes a 84-page rulebook, 32-page
Atlas 2030, and 28-page GM booklet.
Doctor Who: Adventures in Time and Space, The Roleplaying Game
David F. Chapman
2009
Cubicle 7 Entertainment Limited
A time-and-dimension travelling sci-fi RPG based on the TV series.
It uses a simple original system, the "Vortex System". Resolution is by
adding attribute + skill + 2d6 versus difficulty - possibly modified by spending
Story Points. The system emphasizes talking and strategy over pure violence.
Talking always happens first in a round before attacks, and a character
loses all Story Points if they kill. Combat damage subtracts directly
from attributes. Character creation is point-based, setting 6 attributes
(Awareness, Coordination, Ingenuity, Presence, Resolve, and Strength)
along with 12 skills and various traits (Good, Bad, and Special).
Players must spend from their Story Point total for certain traits
such as "alien" or "immortal." The core game is a boxed set including
two full-color bound manuals, character sheets for pre-made characters
as well as blanks, a counter sheet for Story Points, a set of 6 six-sided
dice, a booklet with two introductory adventures, and a number of gadget
cards.
Doctor Who RPG
Michael Bledsoe
Wm John Wheeler
L. Ross Babcock
Guy W. McLimore
1985
FASA
A time-and-dimension travelling sci-fi RPG based on the TV
series. PC' are from the Gallifreyan Celestial Intervention
Agency, usually a Time Lord/Lady and some humans travelling
around in a TARDIS. The system is related to FASA's
<a href="GAME#startrek_fasa">Star Trek</a>. Actions are resolved
using 2d6 on and "interaction matrix". Attributes and skills
both range from 1-7 (written as roman numerals), with
point-bought character generation.
Dog Eat Dog
Liam Burke
2012
Liwanag Press
A partly GMless story game that revolves around colonialism and its
consequence. One player plays the Colonizers and has special control
over the narrative. The other players play Natives. Action within a
scene is resolved by die roll to determine the narrator, but the
Colonizer player can overrule this. Each Native player starts with
three tokens, and the Colonizer player has two tokens for each Native.
The Native culture is jointly created by the players, and there is a
growing list of Rules that the Natives are called on to follow. For
each Rule that a Native followed, the Colonizer must pay one token
to that Native; for each rule that a Native broke, they must pay
one token to the Colonizers. If a Native loses all tokens, they run
amok and die in the following scene, and the Colonizer loses three tokens.
The game ends when either the Colonizer, or all Natives, have lost all
their tokens, followed by end game narration.
Dogs in the Vineyard
Vincent Baker
2004
Lumpley Games
98 digest-size pages, plus 8 pages loose-leaf
A western-genre game where the PCs are religious guardians (God's
Watchdogs) in the community of the Faithful, which is based on 19th
century Utah. Demons roam about the world, and can attempt to move
in on towns which have given way to sin. Characters have four
main attributes, which are each pools of two or more d6. They
also have traits, relationships, and equipment which are rated as
pools of other dice (i.e. d4, d6, d8, d10). Resolution is by
conflict resolution: establish "What's at Stake" and then roll the
dice for all stats related to that. The alternate sides then go
through a process of a "Raise" using two of the dice, which must
then be countered by the opposing side. You can alternately "Escalate"
by switching to a different form of combat, such as going from social
to physical. This raises the amount of "fallout" which can occur
from the conflict.
Dog Town: The Ultimate Crime Experience
Jonathan Ridd
2004
Cold Blooded Games
290
A modern crime RPG about goodfellas, wise guys, and other criminals
from the 1970s era of mob rule in New York City. Specifically, it
suggests that each PC be a crook who just got out of jail and who,
while behind bars, was given the opportunity to make some fantastic
business deal that requires one hundred grand within 90 days.
It uses a skill-based system (the "Split System"), which resolves
actions based on rolling over a target number on 1d20 determined
from a universal chart of skill vs difficulty. Character creation
is point-based, with 10 attributes, ads/disads ("Talents/Flaws"),
and 33 skills. The attributes are rated from -2 to 5 in value:
Bulk, Power, Toughness, Reflexes, Sense, Brains, Control, Style,
Experience, and Luck.
Domination
Blaine Pardoe
1989
StarChilde
An alien invasion RPG set in an alternate 1992 where the evil
Kalotians and their allied aliens are invading Earth. It uses a
percentile system (roll under attribute plus skill). Character
creation is class-based, with random-roll attributes and
point-bought skills.
Dominion Tank Police RPG
David L. Pulver
1999
Guardians of Order
A futuristic RPG set in the world of the mange/anime series
"Dominion Tank Police". The system ("Tri-Stat") is very simple,
with three attributes (Body/Mind/Soul) and skills. Roll 2d6
under your stat, modified by skill. The rulebook also is a
"resource book" on facts, trivia, and background about the
series.
Donjon
Clinton R. Nixon
Zak Arntson
2002
Anvilwerks
80
A fantasy-genre RPG with an emphasis on narrative control for the
player. It uses a dice-pool system, rolling a number of d20s equal
to attribute + skill and taking the highest. The GM rolls a number
of d20s based on difficulty and the results are compared. Each
success lets the player freely declare one statement about the
action. For example, a successful search for secret doors roll
allows the player to define that one is there to be found.
Don't Look Back: Terror is Never Far Behind
Chuck McGrew
Richard Van Ingram
1995
Mind Ventures
2nd
1997
A modern-day horror role-playing game. It uses an unusual dice
pool system where you roll a number of d6 and keep the 3 highest
or lowest depending on your Success Rating (found by comparing
ability to difficulty).
Don't Rest Your Head
Fred Hicks
2006
Evil Hat Productions
A modern-day horror role-playing game where the player characters are all insomniac protagonists with superpowers, fighting -- and using -- exhaustion and madness to stay alive and awake. It is set in a dark alternate reality called the Mad City. It uses an abstract dice pool system with stats for Discipline, Exhaustion, and Madness.
Don't Walk In Winter Wood
Clint Krause
2006
Clint Krause Games
40
A short folkloric horror RPG set in an unnamed 18th-century village,
where something threatening is in the nearby woods that the PCs must
deal with. There is no character sheet, since characters have only
one stat -- the number of Cold Points they have accumulated, representing
emotional, psychological, or physical damage. The GM may ask yes or
no questions, and if the player may answer yes only if they roll over
their current number of Cold Points on 1d6.
Do: Pilgrims of the Flying Temple
Daniel Solis
2011
Evil Hat Productions
Smart Play Games
A cooperative GMless storytelling game where the player characters are
teenaged emissaries and troubleshooters (pilgrims) for a vast temple
in a realm of endless air dotted by small floating worlds. Each
session is spurred by a letter to the pilgrims, which is written
in-character but contains a number of "goal words" (usually around 20).
The players take turns as storyteller. The current storyteller draws
from a bag of black and white stones, and the combination drawn dictates
limits on what the storyteller can narrate. The storyteller writes down
one sentence, possibly helping the letter's author and crossing off one
of the goal words - unless the pilgrim is "in trouble".
Doxy: A Roleplaying Game of Sex & Skullduggery
Ian Warner
2011
Postmortem Studios
226
A roleplaying game set in lower class Georgian London, where the
player characters are hardened lower-class whores. It uses a variant
of the "Beer and Crisps" mechanics from the
<a href="GAME#urbanfaerie">Urban Faerie</a> and
<a href="GAME#courtesans">Courtesans</a> games.
The attributes for this game are Bitching, Bonking, Charming,
Cheating, Daring, and Fighting.
Draci Doupe
Martin Klima
1990
Altar
A Czech-language generic fantasy roleplaying game, whose title
translates as "Dragon Den". It is clearly inspired by
This was a variant of <a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">
Dungeons & Dragons</a>, but also contains many original
ideas. Combat is resolved using a roll of Strength + 1d6, while
other situations are resolved using stat + 1d10. There are six
attributes and six classes. Upon reaching sixth level each class
must choose one of two specializations.
Dragon Age
Chris Pramas
2009
Green Ronin
A dark fantasy game, based on the computer and console game of the same name.
The setting is Ferelden - a fantasy world populated by humans, elves, dwarves,
and dragons. However, society is quite bleak - with dwarves withdrawn and elves
downtrodden and abused. The primary monsters are a related group - called darkspawn,
that rise up out of the ground to invade whole nations. The tabletop game
uses a system called the "Adventure Game Engine" or "AGE". Action resolution
is stat + 3d6, where doubles in the roll allow a number of stunts equal to the
result on a single special die in the set (the Dragon Die). Character creation
is random-roll attributes and option picks based on class.
DragonArms: Bahamut Howling
unknown
1999
F.E.A.R.
A Japanese-language science fantasy RPG, set on a fantasy world shattered
by a monster invasion. A dragon-like ancient craft (Bahamut) is
discovered and used as a mobile battle platform. The PCs are young
mecha pilots in training, with battle interrupting their school
classes.
Dragonball + Dragonball Z: il gioco di ruolo
Andrea Angiolino
Paolo Parrucci
1999
Nexus Editrice
An Italian-language martial-arts RPG, based on the Japanese
manga/anime series of the same name. This is unrelated to the
English game of the same name published by R Talsorian.
It has two supplement that can be played as separate
boardgames: "Dragonball - Alla ricerca delle Sette Sfere"
and "Dragonball Z - Il Torneo".
Dragonball Z RPG
Mike Pondsmith
1998
R Talsorian
An over-the-top martial arts RPG based on the Japanese animated
series. It uses the <a href="GAME#fuzion">Instant Fuzion</a> system,
with the addition of a "Power" stat and no upper limits.
Dragonfire
unknown
1992
Heartbreaker Games
An introductory role-playing/board game, similar in format
to Milton Bradley's better-known HeroQuest game. It features
simple rules for role-playing, some adventures, a set of
interchangeable room and corridor tiles, dice, plastic miniatures
and a few other goodies.
Dragonlance: The Fifth Age
William W. Connors
1998
TSR
An original fantasy game set in the Dragonlance fantasy world
(fiction spin-off from D&D). The system ("SAGA system") is
story-oriented, usng a special 82-card tarot-like deck instead of
dice. Similar to <a href="GAME#castlefalkenstein"> Castle
Falkenstein</a>, actions are resolved by players by adding
attribute plus the value a card played from their hand.
Dragonquest
Eric Goldberg
David James Ritchie
Edward J. Woods
1980
SPI
2nd
Gerard Klug
1981
3rd
1989
TSR
A fantasy-genre RPG focusing on hex-map-based combat. For its
time, this featured a number of new system features in skills and
action resolution. cf. John Kahane's
<a href="http://deathstar.comnet.ca/~jkahane/dq/dq-intro.html">
DragonQuest introduction</a>.
Dragonraid
unknown
1984
Adventures for Christ
An evangelical Christian RPG which is aimed at getting players in
to learn "Biblical priciples". Spells are cast by the player
reciting "WordRunes" which are passages from the Bible. cf. the
<a href="http://www.dragonraid.net/">official website</a>.
Dragonroar
unknown
1985
Standard Games
Fantasy miniatures combat system and RPG, published as a
boxed set including stand-up figures, dice, map, an introductory
adventure ("A Matter of Honour"), and a cassette tape with
instructions. It uses an introductory level system which
emphasizes combat with various monsters. Hit points are shown
as marked-off circles on a body diagram sheet. It has a single
supplement, a boxed set entitled "The Zhevezh Gauntlet".
Dragons at Dawn: The First Fantasy Game System
D.H. Boggs
2010
Southerwood Publishing
A fantasy RPG based on reconstruction of unpublished methods of
play developed by Dave Arneson in the period 1970-1973.
It has a basic game where characters are either Warriors or Wizards,
and an enhanced game that adds Elf, Mage, Thief, Assassin, Merchant
and Sage. While it is a predecessor to
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">Dungeons & Dragons</a>,
the rules are often quite different.
Dragons of Underearth
Keith Gross
1983
Metagaming
This is a mini-boardgame/RPG using a variant of the rules system from
<a href="GAME#fantasytrip">The Fantasy Trip</a>,
produced after TFT author Steve Jackson left for his own projects.
All actions are considered to have happened simultaneously, so
DX is not as important in getting a chance to do damage.
Dragon Storm
Susan Van Camp
Mark Harmon
1995
Black Dragon Press
A fantasy-genre RPG, where players play shape-shifters such as
Human/Dragon, and other traditional fantasy creatures. The
system is card-based. Character creation is point-bought:
choosing an illustrated "character card", and then spending
remaining points on other cards for background, flaws (which give
back points), and special abilities and/or magic. cf. the
<a href="http://www.dragonstorm.com/">official website</a>.
Dragon Warriors
Dave Morris
Oliver Johnson
1982
Corgi Books
2nd
2008
Magnum Opus Press
Mongoose Publishing
A fantasy-genre RPG which came in a series of 6 paperback books.
(1: "Dragon Warriors", 2: "The Way of Wizardry", 3: "The Elven
Crystals", 4: "Out of the Shadows", 5: "The Power of Darkness",
6: "The Lands of Legend"). cf. Cynewulf's
<a href="http://www.geocities.com/TimesSquare/6260/dragmain.htm">
Dragon Warriors page</a>.
Drakar Och Demoner
unknown
1982
Aventyrspel
2nd
1984
Expert
1985
4th aka "'91"
1991
5th aka "Chronopia"
1994
6th
2000
Riotminds
A popular Swedish-language medieval fantasy RPG, originally a
generic system for a variety of fantasy worlds. The first edition
is a direct translation of Steve Perrin's "Magic World" from the
<a href="GAME#worldsofwonder">Worlds of Wonder</a> game,
but subsequent editions developed away from that. The "Expert"
expansion in 1985 introduces many changes. It converts from d100
to d20 for all skill rolls, adds a more point-based (but still
partly random) character creation, and adds new occupations,
skills, and magic. The 4th edition folds in the "Expert" changes
into the main rules. The 5th edition keeps the same rules but
introduces the setting of Chronopia, by Bill King, a Tolkien-esque
fantasy world with a city ruled by time-travelling mages. The
6th edition is a total remake of the rules system (including new
concepts like levels), and includes a new world taking after
Scandanavian myth integrated into the rulebook, featuring and
inspired by the artwork of
<a href="http://www.lysator.liu.se/runeberg/jbauer/">
John Bauer</a>.
Draug
Matthijs Holter
2004
Spartacus Forlag
A Norwegian-language RPG based on Norwegian folklore and fairy-tales,
set in a fantasy version of Norway in the year 1801 -- where the
nation is under Danish rule without sovereign or flag. The setting
includes peasant life, hard times, history and national romanticism
along with a variety of supernatural creatures such as
nøkken, huldra, vetter, trolls, and nisser.
The system is a modified version of the
<a href="GAME#fudge">Fudge</a>
system. Character generation is assigning ten freeform traits
(2 great, 3 good, and 5 fair). There is a conflict rules but only
a few suggestions for how to handle combat. The single volume rules
are divided into the Player's Book, Gamemaster's Book, and the Book
of Adventure.
Dread
Epidiah Ravachol
woodelf
2005
The Impossible Dream
168
A horror RPG which uses a diceless, numberless resolution mechanic centered
on a tower of blocks such as the game, Jenga. If you can pull a block
from the tower without it falling, the actions succeeds. If you choose
not to pull, the action fails. If the tower collapses, your character
is removed from the story (i.e. dies, goes insane, etc.). Character
creation is by answering a series of questions about the character,
with no numeric stats.
dread: The First Book of Pandemonium
Rafael Chandler
2002
Malignant Games
180
Rafael Chandler
Unrated
2007
Neoplastic Press
280
A modern-day demon-fighting RPG. The PCs are a small team ("Cabal")
of people who were exposed to demons and then recruited and trained
in magic to fight them. It uses a simple dramatic system based on a
d12 dice pool. Action resolution is roll (attribute + skill) d12's,
where ties add +1 to the total, and try to get over the target number
(2-14). Character creation is limited point-based, with 9 points to
divide among the three attributes of Body, Mind, and Spirit. You then
get skill points equal to 2x Mind.
Dread House: A game for kids and brave adults
Emily Care Boss
Epidiah Ravachol
2010
Dig a Thousand Holes Publishing
A horror-themed role-playing board game intended for for "spooky children
and brave adults." It uses custom cards and a Jenga tower for resolution.
The player characters are teenagers who have dared each other to spend
the night in Dread House. Character creation is by picking one of five
pre-generated characters: Nerd, Bully, Athlete, Artist, Scaredy-Cat,
or Gossip. Players then take turns exploring rooms in the haunted house,
as mapped out on the game board. When they enter a new room, the next
player draws a card from the custom Spooky Deck and creatively narrates
what is there based on the brief card text. The narrator may get a
Spooky token if the description is very creepy. To successfully
Brave It Out in that room, the player must make a pull from the
Jenga tower - or they may choose from other options.
DreamCatcher
Ashok Desai
2006
Sane Studios
30
A surreal mini-RPG set in the land of dreams, inhabited by various
creatures including the bird-like Anothen who create blissful dreams,
the shapeless black Katothen who create nightmares, or the watery
blob-like Metaksy Dyo who mediate between them. The player characters
are the dream-selfs of people in this realm, who may be part of the
DreamCatcher society that protect the sleeping minds of humanity, or
may be Dream Thiefs who steal ingenuity out of people's heads.
It uses a simple dice pool system where each character has three
rated stats: Mojo, Dream, and Will. In resolution, the player rolls
a number of d6s equal to stat, where every die equal to or higher than
the difficulty (2-6) is a success. Dangerous tasks also have a threat
level (1-3), and any dice equal to or less than this are lost for
the remainder of the session.
The Dreaming Crucible: A Storytelling Game
Joel P. Shempert
2010
Story by the Throat! Press
A fantasy genre storytelling game for three players about Faerie journeys,
designed to play out in an hour and a half. One player character is
a troubled child or adolescent (the Hero/Heroine) who goes to a magical
realm to face fear and pain. The other two players act out the forces
of the Light Faerie (ally) and Dark Faerie (opposition). Character
creation is by defining freeform Elements to be written on cards:
a Gift and Flaw for the Hero/Heroine, Allies for the Light Faerie,
and a Nemesis and Powers for the Dark Faerie. Resolution is by drawing
stones out of a bag when an obstacle is reached, each player putting in
stones from a pool on each Element. The Hero/Heroine and Light Faerie
put in white stones, while the Dark Faerie puts in black stones.
The owner of the winning stone gets the option to place it on the
Element their opponent just used, gaining some ownership of the
opponent's Element. An element that uses all its stones is permanently
transformed, and once all stones of either color are used, the game
is over.
Dream Park
Mike Pondsmith
1992
R Talsorian
An RPG based on the sci-fi novels by Larry Niven, where the
characters play in a futuristic big-budget, live-action
role-playing games. The book is geared for beginners, with
board-game-like introductory scenarios and pre-made character
cards, spell cards, etc. The system is quite simple, a variant
of "Interlock", using skill+1d6 vs difficulty. Character
creation is by choosing a class (which gives a package of basic
skills), then adding points for advantages and skill
modifications. The base system is for unrealistic cross-genre
in-Park "game-play"... where medieval knights fight gun-toting
cyberpunks on semi-even footing.
Dreamwalker: Roleplaying in the Land of Dreams
Peter C. Spahn
Michael Patton
David Griffin
2002
self-published
152
A modern magic RPG where you you play a psychic in the employ of a
government project (Project Dreamwalker), who enters the dreams of
others to rid troubled minds of the Taeniid infestation. It uses
a percentile skill-based system, which is adaptable as guidelines
for dream-based adventures in any system.
The Dresden Files Roleplaying Game
Leonard Balsera
Chad Underkoffler
Ryan Macklin
Jim Butcher
Genevieve Cogman
Rob Donoghue
Fred Hicks
Kenneth Hite
Clark Valentine
2010
Evil Hat Productions
415
An urban fantasy RPG based on the novel series of the same name by
Jim Butcher. It uses a variant of the FATE system from
<a href="GAME#spiritofthecentury">Spirit of the Century</a>,
along with an extensive system of magic and supernatural powers.
Characters begin with different number of Fate points at the start of
each based on a base number for the campaign (Base Refresh Rate)
minus the number of points of powers they have. In addition, it adds
armor and weapon strength that modify the stress inflicted with
a successful hit.
The Drifter's Escape
Ben Lehman
2009
Tao Games
A short narrative RPG for 3-7 people about a lone drifter (i.e. homeless
vagabond) in the U.S., designed to be played in 1-3 hours. One player
role-plays the Drifter, while the other players represent The Devil
and The Man - abstract forces that are trying to own his life and soul.
The book includes with a collection of seven short stories about
the American drifter, by Jake Lehman.
Droga ku Chwale
Andrzej Stoj
2002
Portal
A Polish-language RPG, based on Hong Kong kung-fu movies
and video games. The title translates as "The Road to Glory".
The PC's are masters of martial arts, fighting series of duels
in fantasy city of Tsiengtao. The rules are simple, based on
rolling under attribute + skill. The game has extended
list of combat maneuvers and different styles of fighting.
Droids
Neil Patrick Moore
Derek Stanovsky
Drew Mounce
1983
Integral Games
A sci-fi mini-RPG (digest-sized) about robots trying to survive
after humanity destroyed their world. Character creation is by
assembling your droid piece by piece (legs/wheels/treads,
powerplant, sensors, etc.). It includes a sample scenario of
exploring an abandoned military complex.
Drowning & Falling
Jason Morningstar
2006
Bully Pulpit Games
62
A parody of other RPGs, in particular detailed rules for drowning,
falling, and other such hazards. It includes fifteen attributes,
five character classes (Warrior, Wizard, Cleric, Elf, and Dwarfling),
two alignments (Good and Evil), and over twenty three spells and prayers.
Druid
Spartaco Albertarelli
1993
Editrice Giochi
An Italian-language fantasy RPG, set in a mythic land patterned
after the Great Britain of Celtic mythology. The last Druid
recruits the PCs in his struggle against the spirits of the
Derwydd -- evil druids who had caused the Gods to send a
diluvium. Every PC had some sort of magic/psionic power, such as
healing, illusion, ESP, musical powers, perception, elemental
summoning, runes, or hypnosis. The system is skill-based,
using d100+skill vs. difficulty. Combat and magic are
variations to this standard method. Attributes are generated from
a point pool; common fantasy races (elves, dwarves, halflings)
are in use, as well as vocations that describe the main
professions (granting special advantages). One geographical
expansion was printed.
Duck Trooper
Richard Tucholka
1991
Tri-Tac Games
A humorous combat RPG (64 page) about re-taking your planet from
alien Duck invaders from another dimension. "Now they have the planet
and you have the firepower and the will to take back your homes."
Duel
Bruce Harlick
Ray Greer
Paul Arden Lidberg
1992
Crunchy Frog
A universal RPG system, although geared mainly for the fantasy genre.
It uses a simple skill-based system with 3 attributes (Body, Agility,
Mind). Character creation is by open point-build, spending 35 points
on attributes and skills. Action resolution is by rolling under skill
on 1d10, with special cases for combat. It also uses d5's (1d10/2 or
1d6 reroll 6) for damage, initiative, and some other cases. The basic
game is 36 pages and includes a brief magic system, a 3-page sample
fantasy world, and a 5-page solor adventure. It has a genre book
("Wooden Suits and Iron Men", by Sam Witt, 1994), an advanced rules
supplement ("Mega-DUEL"), and a fantasy adventure ("Secret Liaison").
Dune: Chronicles of the Imperium
Owen M. Seyler
Christian Moore
Matthew Colville
2000
Last Unicorn Games
288
A spacefaring science-fiction RPG based on the novels by Frank Herbert.
It uses a variant of the "Icon" system developed for the
<a href="GAME#startrekthenextgeneration">Star Trek: The
Next Generation</a> RPG. This was only published in a
"Limited Edition" before the publishing company disappeared.
Dungeon Crawl Classics RPG
Joseph Goodman
2012
Goodman Games
480
A fantasy RPG based in part on a mix of editions of the
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a> game.
It uses some unified mechanics similar to later editions, but also
has many old school features such as classes for Elf, Dwarf, and
Halfling. There are also many differences, including magic that
is not limited in spells per day, but every spell must roll a check
against its result table. Character creation is by a "funnel" where
each player creates at least three 0th level characters, and continue
play with the ones that survive. Creation is very simple, rolling
straight 3d6 in order for the attributes: Strength, Agility, Stamina,
Personality, Intelligence and Luck. A character class is chosen only
for characters who survive to 1st level.
Dungeons and Dragons
Gary Gygax
Dave Arneson
1973
TSR
Basic Set 1st ed
J. Eric Holmes
1977
Basic Set 2nd
Tom Moldvay
1980
Expert Set 1st
David Cook
1980
Basic Set 3rd
Frank Mentzer
1983
Expert Set 2nd
Frank Mentzer
1983
Companion Set
Frank Mentzer
1984
Master Set
Gary Gygax
Frank Mentzer
1985
Immortals Set
Frank Mentzer
1986
Rules Cyclopedia
Aaron Allston
1991
3rd
Jonathan Tweet
Monte Cook
Skip Williams
2000
Wizards of the Coast
Adventure Game
Bill Slavicsek
2000
Version 3.5
2003
Basic Game
Jonathan Tweet
2004
4th
Rob Heinsoo
Andy Collins
James Wyatt
2008
5th
Jeremy Crawford
Michael Mearls
2014
The original fantasy role-playing game, a swords-and-sorcery
genre game vaguely based on Tolkien, Howard, and Lieber. The
first edition in 1973 was an add-on to Guidon Games'
<a href="GAME#chainmail">Chainmail</a> miniatures rules.
It was a boxed set with three booklets ("Men & Magic",
"Monsters & Treasure", and "The Underworld and Wilderness Adventures").
This used the term "hobbits" which was changed to "halflings"
in the reprint after a clash with the Tolkien estate. <br>
Later, after <a href="GAME#advanceddungeonsanddragons">
AD&D</a>
was released, the "Basic Set" was re-introduced as an easier
first introduction to AD&D, covering only levels 1-3. Races
were "simplified" to each be their own class (i.e. so elves are
"elf" class instead of being forced to be mixed Fighting Man /
Magic-user). In 1980 this was then expanded into a separate line
of game sets: Basic / Expert / Companion / Master / Immortal.
The first two sets went through several editions, and then the
first 4 sets were later collected and edited into the "Rules
Cyclopedia". This line was dropped in the mid-90's. <br>
The "3rd edition" is really a new edition of
<a href="GAME#advanceddungeonsanddragons">AD&D</a>
with a wholly redesigned system, known as the "D20 System". The
"Adventure Game" is a standalone boardgame with 8 pregenerated
characters along with 3 premade adventures and random dungeon
generators, but with no character generation rules.
Dungeon World
Sage LaTorra
Adam Koebel
2012
Sage Kobold Productions
400
A fantasy RPG in the milieu of Dungeons & Dragons,
but using rules adapted from
<a href="GAME#apocalypseworld">Apocalypse World</a>.
Character creation is by picking a playbook, assigning the six
attribute scores, choosing moves, and making connections with the
other player characters. Only players roll for resolution, rolling
2d6 + attribute modifier after the GM decides that a Move has been
activated. There are no difficulty modifiers. The rules emphasize
drawing on the fiction, including a series of diceless Moves for the
GM to draw on.
Dust Devils: The Truly Gritty Old West Role-Playing Game
Matt Snyder
2002
Chimera Creative
A wild west RPG. It uses an unusual playing card system. The
character draws a number of cards based on the sum of two
attributes. Highest poker hands across opposed characters
determines who wins a conflict, but highest single card
determines who narrates the outcome. Players also have
chips which may be spent to draw extra cards or other effects.
Each character has a Devil representing his "worser nature" which
can modify actions.
Duty & Honour
Neil Gow
2008
Omnihedron Games
A role-playing game of military action in the Napaleonic era - where the
PCs are members of the British army under the Duke of Wellington. The
resolution system is based on playing cards, where each player has their
own deck of cards. The players draws a pool of cards based on stat to
resolve an entire combat or other conflict, where each card that beats a
randomly-drawn "Card of Fate" is one success. Play is structured around
mechanically-defined missions. Character creation uses a lifepath system.
The Dying Earth RPG
Robin D. Laws
John R. Snead
Peter Freeman
2001
Pelgrane Press
A fantasy RPG set in the world of the novels by Jack Vance -- an
ancient world populated by a desperately extravagant people, rich
with magic. It uses a simple system where a single d6 roll
determines the results (1=worst to 6=best), where higher ability
gives you a number of rerolls (your "ability pool") which
refreshes every 2 to 8 hours. Character creation is open
point-based, where you can gain bonus points by accepting random
choices. It has an in-depth magic system based closely on the
series.
Dystopia: America 2155 A.D.
Gavin Hadaller
2001
Politically Incorrect Games
A science-fiction game set in 2155 A.D. America, where you are part
of the oppressed masses fighting against the totalitarian control of
the megacorporations. The system is skill-based, based on rolling under
your stat or skill on 1d10 (where 10 is a botch and 1 is a critical
success). Character creation uses random-roll attributes and
point-bought skills (with modifiers for Social Class and Lifestyle).
Dzikie Pola
Jacek Komuda
Maciej Jurewicz
Marcin Barylka
1997
Wydawnictwo MAG
2nd
Jacek Komuda
Michal Mochocki
Artur Machlowski
2005
Wydawnictwo MAG
A Polish-language historical RPG set in 17th century Poland. The
player characters are all noblemen - usually Polish but possibly foreign -
who fight various Polish enemies of this period. There were two supplements
published: W stepie szerokim (In the wide steppe) and Ogniem i mieczem
(With fire and sword). It has complicated rules for sabre-fighting and
duels, using szablas (a Polish type of a sabre) or rapiers (used mainly
by foreigners). The rules for other activities are generally simple.
The second edition uses a simple mechanic comparing a 1d20 roll plus
attribute, skill, and modifiers versus a difficulty number. Character
creation is point-based, with slow advancement and little increase in
hit points for a realistic feal.
EABA
Greg Porter
2002
BTRC
150
A universal system, published as a 150-page downloadable PDF file.
It is a open-ended d6 system similar to the previous BTRC game
<a href="GAME#corps">CORPS</a> but intended to be
more heroic in scope. Character creation is limited point-based,
with separate points for the six attributes (Strength, Agility,
Health, Awareness, Will, and Fate) and skills. It uses a universal
logarithmic scale where each +3 doubles the effect.
Early Dark
Calvin Johns
Travis Rinehart
Chuck Wendig
2011
Anthropos Games
400
A low-fantasy game set in a world filled with magic, specifically
a set of societies around the Hara Sea. It is set at the very end
of a great war sparked by humans who had found secret ancient magick
hidden deep within the earth. Human life is rough, and magick is
unpredictable and feared, even by those who wield it. It uses a d10
dice pool, with stats for aptitudes (Fight, Cunning, Labor, Touch,
Relate, Guile, Thrive) and for domains (Mundane, Arcane, Loom).
Character creation is a mix of random-roll and limited point allocation.
EarthAD.2 RPG
Brett M. Bernstein
Peter C. Spahn
2007
Politically Incorrect Games
86
A post-apocalyptic science fiction RPG, set in a future where the
remains of earth is plagued by cyborgs, mutants, plague carriers,
and sentient animals. It uses a variant of the genreDiversion system
also used by <a href="GAME#coyotetrail">Coyote Trail</a>.
The Earth & Sky Roleplaying Game
Scott C. Hungerford
Jesse McGatha
Richard Thames Rowan
Bahia Rowan
1999
Lamplighter Design Studio
Rubicon Games
Collector's
2001
Gaslight Press
96 pages trade paperback
An RPG of modern urban faerie tales and fantasy, where
the power of belief brings to life fictional characters.
PC's include wizards and dream walkers. The background includes
a faerie realm (the Borderlands), along with unicorns, dragons,
and so forth. It uses a rules-lite system.
Earthdawn
Greg Gorden
Louis J. Prosperi
1993
FASA
1.5th
1994
2nd
2001
Living Room Games
3rd
2009
RedBrick LLC
A dark fantasy RPG set in a prehistoric mythic era of the world
of Barsaive (a parallel Earth), where various "Horrors" have
destroyed or corrupted most of the world. From strongholds
("kaers"), the people are slowly reclaiming the land from these
Horrors. Races include elves, dwarves, orks, and trolls as well
as windling, obsidimen, and lizardmen. It uses a combined
class/skill based system. Resolution is by a "step-die" roll
vs difficulty: skill + modifiers on a universal chart determines
your die roll (d4,d6,d8,etc.).
Eclipse Phase
Rob Boyle
John Snead
Brian Cross
Jack Graham
Lars Blumenstein
2009
Posthuman Studios LLC
Catalyst Game Labs
402
A transhuman sci-fi/horror game, released under the Creative Commons
license (non-commercial, share-alike). It is set 10 years after the
fall of humanity ("The Fall") - when the Earth and colonies were devasted
by advanced artifical intelligences (TITANs) that went out of control and
then disappeared along with millions of humans whose minds were forcibly
uploaded. Five wormhole gateways to other systems were found following
the Fall, and contact has been made with aliens known as the Factors.
It uses a percentile skill-based system, with success determined by
rolling 1d100 under skill + modifiers, with doubles (11, 22, etc.) being
critical. Since characters may switch bodies, stats are distinguished
between ego (self) and morph (current body). Attributes are Initiative,
Speed, Durability, Wound Threshold, Lucidity, Trauma Threshold, Moxie,
and Damage Bonus.
Écryme
Mathieu Gaborit
Guillaume Vincent
1994
Tritel / Délires
224
A French-language Victorian sci-fi RPG, a la Jules Verne. It is
set in a detailed fantasy world drowned in a corrosive matter
("écryme"), where only a few islands survive.
Civilization is early industrial -- with trains, airships, and
muskets -- and rife with political intrigue. The book is divided
into three parts of equal length: a worldbook, rulebook, and an
introductory scenario for 5 pre-made characters.
The Edge of Midnight: A role-playing game of mean streets and lost souls
Rob Vaux
2006
Edge of Midnight Press
Studio 2 Publishing
A fantasy noir RPG, set in a world based on film noir mixed with magic
and horror. The primary nation is the United Commonwealth, a parallel
of post-war USA, but it is plagued by inhuman "gaunts". It uses a
skill-based system, where the players rolls 2d10 and adds one die
to skill (the skill die) and one die to attribute. If both the skill
total and attribute total match or exceed the difficulty, it is a full
success. If only one does, it is a partial success (either by skill
or by raw talent).
Ehdrigohr
Allen Turner
2013
Council of Fools Productions
A Fate Core based tabletop role-playing game where you play heroes
in a fantasy world based on a mix of American Indian and other
tribal cultures.
Eldritch Ass Kicking
Nathan J. Hill
2001
Mystic Ages Online
Extended Remix
2004
Key 20 Publishing
Mystic Ages Online
92
A humorous fantasy game about "arcane action and old men with sticks".
The characters are wizards in the former fantasy realm of Anhelm,
which has been torn apart and cast into a strange void. Now the
wizards of the realm duel, gossip, and meet in taverns. It uses a
simple system with three attributes: Agility, Endurance, and
Concentration. Action resolution is by (skill or attribute) + 2d10,
with zeroes counting as zero, and compare to difficulty. Success
gives you limited ability to narrate the outcome. Magic is divided
into schools, with the defaults being Air, Earth, Fire, and Water.
Magical effects are largely freeform. There is an optional rule for
"Hubris" points which may be spent to alter rolls.
Eldritch Skies
John Snead
A.J. Luxton
2012
Battlefield Press
270
A science fiction horror RPG, set in 2030 of an alternate history that
proceeds from Lovecraft's horror stories. In 1931, an expedition found
the elder ones' city in Antarctica; in 1947, the mi-go crashed in Roswell;
in 1958, an occult trip to Mars was tried; in 1994, scientists mastered
the lightspeed barrier. In 2030, there is spacefaring via sorcery-powered
hyperspace along with machine-made telepathy, augmentations, and
unprecedented levels of automation. Ghouls and Deep Ones are
ab-human minorities, and a UN-run space patrol battles devious
mi-go and marauding moonbeasts. It uses the Cinematic Unisystem
originally developed for Eden Studios'
<a href="GAME#buffythevampireslayer">
Buffy the Vampire Slayer RPG</a>.
Elekhasë
Alexandre Bidot
Caroline Jehan
Denis Bodin
1994
Ormékiane Productions
212
A French-language post-apocalyptic fantasy RPG, set 87 years after
the second armageddon in an original setting (Eleckase). In a
confused era, the twenty nations face various magical
prophecies. The game features cosmic mysteries over the five
entities: Chaos, Loi, Balance, Pendule and Magic. There are
13 races including dwarf, elf, gnome, and various others.
Character creation is class-based, with 23 attributes and
a wide variety of skills.
Elemental Axes
Eric Seaton
2003
Crosstime Games
2nd
Eric Seaton
2007
Crosstime Games
128
A fantasy genre system. It includes an original fantasy setting,
describing the history and geography of a great empire, along with
savage creatures of the world. It uses a percentile skill-based
system using a single skill-vs-skill action table for all challenges.
Character generation uses a limited point-buy system, where you
assign separate points for skills and backgrounds. There are no
attributes, only a large skill list.
Element Masters
Kenneth Burridge
Robert Finkbeiner
Kevin Nelson
Brian Pettitt
1982
Escape Ventures
2nd
1984
A fantasy-genre RPG, set in a medieval fantasy world ("Vinya")
into which aliens are pouring from a interdimensional gate
(related to magical transporters which interconnect the
continent). It uses a percentile skill-based system. Character
creation is primarily random-roll with a few choices. PC's are
assumed to be militia with some magic. The 3rd edition, or
remake, of this game was published as <a href="GAME#gatewar">
Gatewar</a>.
Elfquest
Steve Perrin
Sandy Petersen
Yurek Chodak
1984
Chaosium
2nd
1989
A fantasy role-playing game set in the world of the comic series
"Elfquest". It uses a variant of Chaosium's <a href="GAME#basic">
Basic Role-Playing</a> system.
Elfs
Ron Edwards
2001
Adept Press
A humorous mini-RPG poking fun at elf stereotypes in
fantasy RPGs. The mechanics are intended to allow for
unintentional consequences of PC actions. Illustrated by
Jeff Diamond.
El-Hazard
Jesse Scoble
2001
Guardians of Order
An RPG based on the Japanese anime series <u>El-Hazard</u>,
directed by Tenchi Muyo! co-creator Hiroki Hayashi. The series
details the adventures of high school student Makoto Mizuhara
after he is pulled into an alternate dimension, the fantasy world
of El-Hazard, where he must battle against an evil insectoid
empire. Like other GOO adaptations, the core book includes
detailed background on the series. It uses a variant of the
<a href="GAME#bigeyessmallmouth">Big Eyes, Small Mouth</a>
system.
Elhendi
Risto J. Hieta
1993
ACE-pelit OY
126
A fantasy-genre RPG set on a world dominated by elves. The world
also includes humans, dwarves, orcs, bologs (an ogre-like race)
and a gnome-like race called kah'jaar. However, the book
recommends that the PC's all be elves, who have some unique powers.
There are three sub-races of elves: forest, mountain and plains
elves. The game is mid- to high fantasy in theme, and rather
light-hearted in tone. The system uses 4-20 range of dice.
Elish
E. Coltorti
M. Calamita
T. Yamanouchi
V. Castelfranchi
1994
self-published
2nd
2000
An Italian-language storytelling fantasy RPG. It is popular
and may make an appearance on the German market. The system
allows both dice-using and diceless. It also incorporates some
live-action elements: casting magic requires learning various
hand combinations. Characters creation is based on deriving
skills from a developed background (perhaps similar to
<a href="GAME#herowars">Hero Wars</a>).
Elric!
Lynn Willis
Richard Watts
Mark Morrison
Jimmie W. Pursell, Jr.
Sam Shirley
Joshua Shaw
1993
Chaosium
A dark fantasy role-playing game set in the world of Michael
Moorcock's Young Kingdoms series. This is really an edition
of Chaosium's <a href="GAME#stormbringer">Stormbringer</a>
with a different name, which was released between 4th and 5th
editions. It uses a version of Chaosium's percentile system,
<a href="GAME#basic">Basic Roleplaying</a>, notably with fast
character creation and very high skills -- recommending combat
skills of 100% or more.
Elric of Melnibone
Lawrence Whitaker
2007
Mongoose Publishing
A dark fantasy role-playing game set in the world of Michael
Moorcock's Young Kingdoms series. This is to some degree an edition
of Chaosium's <a href="GAME#stormbringer">Stormbringer</a>
with a different name, released after the 5th edition. It uses a
variant of the <a href="GAME#runequest">RuneQuest</a> system
developed by Mongoose Publishing.
Ember Twilight
Troy Costisick
Peter Evan
John Gordon
Brian Hagerty
2002
Twilight Press, Inc.
286
A fantasy role-playing game set in an original fantasy world,
It uses a percentile skill-based system. Character creation uses
a system of many professions -- including warrior, paladin, archer,
scout, essence bender, and intercessor.
Empire Galactique
Francois Nedelec
1984
Robert Laffont, Editor
286
Francois Nedelec
Jean-Charles Rodriguez
Sylvie Rodriguez
2nd
1987
[trade paperback]
A French-language space opera RPG, set in a universe of
thousand of stars and many alien races. PC's include merchants of
"The Hanse", telepath priests, Empire soldiers, and teknorobot
engineers. The 2nd edition was published as a mainstream book.
The mechanics are based on stat multiplied by 2d6 vs difficulty.
Empire of Dust
Amy Garcia
Clint Krause
2008
Red Design
KNRPG Productions
A sci-fi/fantasy role-playing game set on a war-torn desert planet
called Osaris, although there are fertile Riverlands. A demonic
world-conquerer, Thron, crash-landed in the Xadian capital and killed
the King, supported by human legions kept subservient by addiction to
Osaris "dust." The Xadians have super-tech including sentient Geara
androids along with "Gunknights." There are also native Bruta, and
invading space-bugs (Krythids). The game uses the "Epiphany Engine"
game system. Resolution uses rolling under attribute on 1d20, and if
the roll exactly matches the rating is raised by one (called an epiphany).
Empire of Satanis
Darrick Dishaw
2005
self-published
62
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). The content is offered free from
www.cultofcthulhu.net, but there is also a print-on-demand version.
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.
Empire of the Petal Throne
M.A.R. Barker
1975
TSR
2nd
1983
Gamescience
A non-traditional fantasy game set on a unique alien world called
"Tekumel". Set 60,000 years in the future, Tekumel was settled
by Earth, but a great disaster threw Tekumel into a pocket
dimension where gods and magic existed. The setting has a strong
Hindu and Aztec flavor rather than European, and is lavishly
detailed. There are three other games set in this world that
were published later:
<a href="GAME#swordsandglory">Swords & Glory</a> (1983),
<a href="GAME#gardasiyal">Gardisayal</a> (1995), and
<a href="GAME#tekumel">Tekumel</a> (2005).
Empires et Dynasties
Patrick Durand-Peyrolles
1987
PB Productions
2nd
1988
Editions Dragon Radieux
A French-language fantasy RPG with a touch of sci-fi.
It features playing thru many generations of characters
(hence "dynasties").
Empyrea
Massimo Bianchini
Mario Pasqualotto
2006
Asterion Press
An Italian-language medieval fantasy RPG with a planar setting
emphasizing an involved cosmology. It uses a variant of the D20
system used by 3rd edition
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a>.
Empyrium
unknown
1996
CRJH
A French-language space opera RPG in the mood of the 60s-70s
novels by Asimov, Dick and other similar authors.
Enchanted Worlds
Starter Kit
Matthew Rodgers
Daniel Price
2001
New Worlds Gaming
This is a fantasy RPG set in an original fantasy world called Unlond.
The system is a simple skill-based system, where resolution is by
rolling under attribute or skill on 2d8. Character creation is by
allocating a pool of attribute points among the 8 attributes and
a pool of skill points among the skills. The system includes a brief
magic system. The starter kit includes the 32 page rulebook, a 20 page
adventure: "Autumn Harvest", a reference card, a full color map,
two eight sided dice, and a dice bag.
The End
Joseph E. Donka
1997
Scapegoat Games
A bleak post-biblical-apocalypse RPG, where characters are the
survivors of the Rapture whom God has abandoned: the Good being
taken to Heaven and the Evil to Hell. Characters are ordinary
people in a world where chaos reigns.
Endland
B.S. Ilktac
2001
Moloch Studios
A German-language post-apocalyptic RPG, originally released as a
free RPG over the web. The world was devastated long ago,
and now five races fight for survival. The equipment ranges from
handmade items to "high-tech" gear retrieved from the remnants of
the old civilization. It uses a skill-based system, where players
roll 1d10 against the sum of an attribute and a skill. Characters
have five attributes and a variable number of skills, as well as
personality stats such as curiosity, greed or vengefulness.
Character creation includes various professions, including unusual
ones (whores or jesters). In combat, the attacker has always to
select a hit location, which determines the difficulty of the
attack. Damage is determined by the weapon's damage class and
is subtracted from a character's hit points.
Enemy Gods
John Wick
2003
Wicked Dead Brewing Company
A mythic fantasy game, where players take dual roles of both a mythic
Hero and a watchful God. The God guides the Hero and friends through
adventures, and as the Heroes' popularity grows, the power of the Gods
does as well. The more powerful the Gods become, the more they can
aid the Heroes. It uses a narration-focused dice-pool system,
the "Advantage" system, where extra dice can be acquired by looking
for advantages your character has in a particular situation, each
of which earns an extra die.
Enfer et Damnation
unknown
unknown - pre-1990
Casus Belli / Excelsior Publications / Jeux Descartes
A French-language horror RPG, where the PC's are dead people sent
back from Heaven for missions on Earth. Published in
"Jeux et Stratégies" magazine.
Enforcers
Gary Bernard
Charles Mann
Larry Troth
1987
21st Century
A sci-fi superhero RPG set in 2046 after superpower mutations
began arising in 1999. It uses a percentile system. Character
creation is random-roll attributes, and point-buy of superpowers
and of binary skills. Reviewed in White Wolf #11.
En Garde
Daryl Hany
Frank Chadwick
1975
GDW
2nd
1977
3rd
1989
SFC Press
48
A tabletop game of duellists in 17th Century France. As
originally published, it is primarily a set of duelling rules
with rudimentary rules for membership in regiments and social
interaction (carousing). It has been greatly expanded as a PBeM
game, however. cf. the
<a href="http://members.home.net/en-garde/">En Garde homepage</a>
and <a href="http://www.sfcp.co.uk/">SFC Press</a>.
En Garde
Gunilla Jonsson
Mikael Petersén
1988
Ragnarok
A Swedish-language RPG of duellists in 17th Century France.
Engel
1st (German)
Oliver Graute
Oliver Hoffman
Kai Meyer
2001
Feder & Schwert
1st (English)
2002
White Wolf
A biblical fantasy RPG, set in the 27th century after the Biblical
End Times has fallen over the land. The PCs are either "engels"
or their human allies -- where engels are essential angels created
to battle insectile demons known as the Dreamseed. The original
German edition uses a system (the "Arcana" system) using tarot
cards, with an emphasis on storytelling. The English edition uses
a standalone system based on the D20 System used by 3rd edition
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a>.
Engels have five new classes, while Humans may be Fighters and
Rogues priests of the Angelitic Church tend to be Experts or
Aristocrats (the OGL NPC classes).
eNIGMA (αιΝΙΓΜΑ)
Panagiotis "Aiollus" Laskaris
Themis Mpalomenos
2004
Initiative
190
A modern-day Greek-language fantasy RPG, playable either live-action
or tabletop. The basic rules also introduce players to the ongoing
official campaign, and gives credit in the official campaign currency
(10 "talanta"). The PCs are organised in "Brotherhoods", and try to
discover the truth behind an unfolding conspiracy. They work for
eight ancient Guilds, which assign missions that loosely resemble
treasure hunts. The Eight Guilds are: Order of Gaia, Creators'
Stage, School of the Occult, Academy of Alchemists, Contract of
Merchants, House of Brothers, Caste of the Warriors, and Society
of Leaders. The "talanta" are used to buy spells, skills and equipment.
Actions are resolved by 1d20 + stat vs difficulty. There is a
simple combat system with binary damage -- i.e. whenever you are
hit, you are out of the game for as long as this battle lasts.
Eon
Carl Johan Stróm
Marco Behrrman
Krister Sundelin
Ola Nilsson
1996
Neogames AB
2nd
2000
Petter Nallo
3rd
2004
A Swedish-language heroic fantasy RPG, set on an original world
called Mundana with extensive description. It has versions of
many traditional fantasy races including dwarves, elves, tiraker
(orcs) and misslor (fairies). The rules system is fairly complex,
and includes a magic system with both formulaic and improvised magic.
The third edition includes some simplification of the damage system,
and splits the core rules into two books (a Player book and a
GameMaster book).
Eoris Essence RPG
David Torres
Alejandro Cárdenas
Nicolás Acosta
2009
Visions of Essence, LLC
A fantasy RPG emphasizing high-quality art in an original world.
It uses a dice pool system, rolling a number of d20s equal to skill
or attribute, where every result over the target number (base 15) is
a success. Each rool includes an additional d20, the "essence die,"
that modifies success or failure.
EPIC Role Playing
Chris Organ
Kent Davis
2005
Dark Matter Studios
Revised
Chris Organ
Kent Davis
Andrew Mertz
Andy Monroe
2007
Dark Matter Studios
Mark III
Chris Organ
2011
Dark Matter Studios
A fantasy role-playing game set in an original fantasy world, Eslin,
centered on the high feudal kingdom of Rullaea along with the
Scandanavian-like icy lang of Rimenor and the region of
Ursyos-Elkiknon where men are enslaved to by cruel invaders from another
dimension -- the seven-foot tall, grey-skinned, mentalist Buruk.
Action resolution uses 2d10. Character creation uses a life path at
the end of which the player selects a profession, guild, lone master,
or teacher is chosen from the specific realm of the campaign.
EPICS: Deserve to Survive
J. Scott Pittman
2000
Dragonslayer Games
A universal RPG system, an acronym for "Easy, Player-Initiated Game System".
It uses a system of developing characters as you go. Players earn
Survival Points for thinking fast, good role-playing and adding detail
to their characters during the course of play. The basic game includes
a sample setting, "A.N.G.E.L.S.", a modern world where heroes with rare
inhuman powers fight against supernatural creatures and government plots.
Epiphany
Greg Porter
1996
BTRC
An Atlantean-age fantasy game using a unique diceless system.
Players match against the GM by splitting their stat into fingers
of each hand (i.e. stat 5 could be 3 in one hand and 2 in the
other, say). This is similar in principle to
rock-paper-scissors, but accounts for a range of skills and
difficulties.
Epoch: Age of Magic
Chris Rutkowsky
2001
Basic Action Games
79
A fantasy RPG using a percentile system which mixes pure skill and
trade grouping. Skills are grouped under three trades: Warrior,
Rogue, and Scholar. Each character designates one trade each as
Primary, Secondary, and Tertiary. The priority determines a multiplier:
x6 for Primary, x5 for Secondary, and x4 for Tertiary. Action resolution
is by adding attribute + skill, multiplying by trade multiplier,
adding difficulty modifier, and then rolling under that number
on percentile dice. In combat, a hit roll is by a roll modified by
targets avoid percentage -- followed by hit location and damage (using
d6s) upon success. Character creation is a mix of random-roll and
point-buy, where skill points can be used to modify the results of
random rolls for race, social class, handedness, and attributes.
Remaining skill points are used to buy skills within the three
groupings.
ERA
unknown
1999
editore Clinica tbf/multiserver
An Italian-language fantasy RPG and combat simulation. The
system uses cards in combat to determine the way you attack.
It has a web-based expansion dedicated to the videogame
"Soul Calibur".
Era Ten
Joseph Hillmer
George Rahm
1992
Better Games
A sci-fi space marine RPG, set in a future where humans and their
four alien allies (known as the "Tetra League") have been infected
by a "pacification virus." The PC's are rare members of the
species who are immune to the virus, and are thus pressed into
service as powered-armor marines who defend the league from
outside attack. It uses the "Free-style Roleplay" system from
<a href="GAME#crimsoncutlass">Crimson Cutlass</a>, and also
comes with extensive guidelines for generating random missions and
other scenarios. The <u>Space Gamer</u> magazine published two
mini-RPGs based on this: <a href="GAME#battleborn">Battle Born</a>
(in issue #1) and <a href="GAME#guardiansofsol">Guardians of Sol</a>
(in issue #5). The PC's gain abilities by downloading capabilities
into their spacesuit. Use of these suit skills are the only types
of rolls the player makes during game play.
Eric Flint's 1632 Resource Guide and Role Playing Game
Jonathan M. Thompson
2005
Battlefield Press
An role-playing adaptation of the time-traveling novel by
Eric Flint, where in May of the year 2000, a six-mile sphere,
centered on Grantville, West Virginia, was displaced in space
and time to 1631 Germany. The system is a variant of the
<a href="GAME#action">Action! System</a> from
Gold Rush Games.
ERPS: Das neue deutsche Rollenspiel
Ernst-Joachim Preussler
1995
Edition Ulisses
A German-language low-magic fantasy RPG, aimed at beginning
roleplayers. The system uses stat + an open-ended d10 roll (on a
10 reroll and add) vs difficulty. Character creation is
point-based. The player distributes 4 priority points among 4
fields (2 max): physical, weapons, mental and psi. This defines
how easily you can learn skill in those fields. There are 6
attributes (Strength, Skill, Constitution, Knowledge, Charisma,
and Psi) and 5 sense values (seeing, hearing, feeling, tasting,
smelling). Skill selection is also point-based with fields and
attributes making it easier to gain related skills. It also
includes a magic system.
Das E.R.S.T.E.
Ralf Sandfuchs
1997
Harlekin
A German-language universal RPG system aimed at beginners:
the name means "The First One" and is an acronym for
"Beginner's RPG, very easy". It is a small booklet
with no character classes, skill lists, or magic systems.
Escape from Tentacle City: A Dark Comedy Game of Survival Horror
Willow Palecek
2009
self-published
A comedic horror RPG for 4-6 people, with a rotating GM position and
a pool of many characters. Each player creates a group of characters
from among marginalized members of society within Tentacle City, which
is being menaced by giant tentacles. Each player then also creates one
character in each of the other groups. The players then take turns
setting a scene and acting as GM for the group they created.
The Esoterrorists
Robin D. Laws
2006
Pelgrane Press
A modern-day horror RPG where the PCs are investigators in a
secret conspiracy cell, fighting the Esoterrorists -- a loose
affiliation of occultists intent on tearing apart reality itself.
It uses a new system, called the GUMSHOE rules. It uses
diceless point-spending to resolve investigative skills, and
die rolls modified by points for core skills. Character creation
is limited point-based, with no attributes and splitting between
the 39 investigative skills and the 13 core skills.
Espionage
George MacDonald
Steve Peterson
1983
Hero Games
A secret agent RPG, using a variant of the 2nd edition
<a href="GAME#champions">Champions</a> rules.
This was revised with a new title as
<a href="GAME#dangerinternational">Danger International</a>
in 1985.
Eternal Soldier
Chris Arnold
Rob Arnold
Joe Mays
1986
Tai-Gear Simulations
A universal system, providing combat rules usable in any genre or
time period. 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. The rules were later made available free from Tai-Gear's
website. Reviewed in White Wolf #9.
Etherscope
Nigel McClelland
Ben Redmond
2005
Goodman Games
286
A modern fantasy RPG using a variant of the D20 System as found in
<a href="GAME#d20modern">D20 Modern</a>. It is set in
the year 1984 of an alternate history where psychic technology using
the ether was discovered in 1874. Modern etherscopes are devices by
which human minds could enter Etherspace, a psychic parallel to the
Internet. There are many other steampunk and cyberpunk elements,
including eugenically-modified humans. The strains include the
standard Betas, improved Alphas, ratlike Gammas, doglike Deltas,
and horselike Epsilons. In the larger world, there are three
superpowers: Britain, America, and Germany's New Reich. Among all,
Victorian virtues like social stratification, imperialism, and
scientific progress rule unchallenged. The system includes six
basic classes (Broker, Combatant, Enginaught, Pursuer, Savant and
Scoundrel) and twelve advanced character classes (Cybernaught,
Explorer, Tab-Jammer, Thief, Industrialist, Occult Investigator,
Program Crater, Scope Rider, Scope Warrior, Spy and Street Mercenary).
Everlasting
Book of the Unliving
Steven Brown
1997
Visionary Games
Book of the Light
1998
Book of the Spirits
1998
Book of the Fantastical
2003
A modern-day urban fantasy game, which comes in several parts
detailing the "Secret World" of eldritch creatures unseen in
everyday life. The fantasy elements are much more traditional
than White Wolf's similar series (i.e. based on folklore rather
than recent fiction like Anne Rice, neo-paganism, etc.) The
shared system uses a pool of d12's (based on attribute) rolled
against a target number based on skill and difficulty. The
game(s) also have diceless and percentile-die variants. <br>
"Book of the Unliving" details Ghuls, Revenants, and Vampires.
"Book of the Light" details angels and divinely-inspired humans
fighting demons and werewolves.
EverQuest Roleplaying Game
Steve Wieck
2002
White Wolf
400 hardcover
A fantasy genre RPG based on the popular multiplayer online computer
RPG. It is set on the world of Norrath, inhabited by humans, elves,
and dwarves as well as reptilian Iksar and aquatic Kedge.
The rules are a variant of the D20 System from 3rd edition
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a>,
although it does not use the D20 trademark and includes complete
character creation and combat rules.
Everway
Jonathan Tweet
1995
Wizards of the Coast
1.5th
1996
Rubicon Games
2nd
unknown
Gaslight Press
A dimension-hopping fantasy game, using a story-oriented diceless
system. The game features a fixed deck of "fortune" cards, similar
to a tarot deck, which is used to subjectively influence the GM's
resolution. There are collectible "image" cards with various
original artwork on them, used to inspire character creation and
adventure design. Character creation is guided by a set of image
card draws, using a loose point-based mechanic to buy attributes,
special powers, and magic. There are four attributes: air, earth,
fire, and water -- with each element representing a side of
character ability.
Exalted
Geoffrey C. Grabowski
Robert Hatch
Ken Cliffe
Richard Thomas
Stephan Wieck
Andrew Bates
Dana Habecker
Sheri M.Johnson
Chris McDonough
2001
White Wolf
A fantasy RPG set in a mythic age when the Exalted ruled a vast empire
which controls the world. The Exalted are those who can channel
Essence for magical powers. It uses a variant of the "Storyteller"
dice pool system.
Excursion into the Bizarre
Wolfgang Trippe
Brian Carlson
1985
Blind Dog Games
58
A tongue-in-cheek cross-genre RPG where some denizens of a fantasy
world are carried by "Vorpal Winds" into a strange new world:
twentieth century Earth. There are two home dimensions: Oort,
a dimension of treasure-obsessed, dungeoneering elves, orcs,
and the like; and Chon-Blu, a parallel universe where furries
rule the earth. Character creation is by rolling best 4 out of 5d6
for the five attributes (Strength, Constitution, Agility, Intelligence,
and Wisdom/Intuition); then dividing 250 points among a set of
percentile skills (with a minimum of 5 skills and a maximum of
Intelligence/5). The basic game includes a magic system and
division of humanity into enemies, allies, and neutrals.
Exo, juego de rol e interpretacion de ciencia-ficcion
Juan Carlos Herreros Lucas
Raul Lopez Diaz-Ufano
Fernando Ruiz Tapiador Gutierrez
Hugo Wifredo Serrano Ruiz
Javier Sevilla Villafañe
2000
Ediciones Sombra
A Spanish-language science-fiction RPG in a galaxy with hundred of
alien races that fight to survive. The game system uses a single 3d10
roll indicate check, sucess level, location and damage.
Expendables
L. Lee Cerny
Walter H. Mytczenskyj
Michael A. Thomas
1987
Stellar Games
88
A spacefaring sci-fi RPG, where PC's are explorers hired to find
new planets to be exploited by the monolithic company they work
for. There is not much background except for extensive equipment
lists. Character creation is class-based with random-roll
attributes and point-buy skills (assigned a number of dice to
different skills). Advancement is level-based. Reviewed in
White Wolf #10.
Exquisite Replicas
Lee Foster
Monica Valentinelli
John R. Phythyon Jr.
Werner Hager
Todd Cash
2008
Abstract Nova Entertainment
164
A modern-day horror game set in a world where people and things are
being replaced by mysterious duplicates. The player characters are
people who have joined the Anonymous -- a loose movement mask-wearing
rebels that is set on destroying the replicas and attempting to return
the real versions to this world. Character creation is limited point-
based, by declaring priority between physical attributes, mental
attributes, occupation, and advantages. Characters are also rated in
three psychological areas: Paranoia, Violence, and Immorality.
It uses a dice pool system, rolling a number of d10s equal to
attribute plus skill, where each result of "1" gives one success,
each result of "2" gives two successes, and all other results are
ignored.
The Extraordinary Adventures of Baron Munchausen
Baron Munchausen
James Wallis
1998
Hogshead Games
2nd
2008
Magnum Opus Press
A storytelling game, part of a series of new games that are
innovative, short (typically 16 pages), and quick-to-play(1 hour
or less). The characters are 18th century nobles outrageously
boasting of their accomplishments.
Extreme Vengeance
Tony Lee
1997
Archangel
80
A highly cinematic action-movie game where players take the role
of type-case actors in action movies. The game, in theory, allows
the gamemaster to move the characters into any type of action
movie. Characters are designed by combining a Descriptor and a
Designator, which gives two attributes: Guts and Coincidence,
along with ads ("Repertoires") and disads ("No-Goods"). It uses
a simple dice-pool system, totalling a number of d6's based on
attribute, modified by how exciting the GM rates the action.
There are two supplements: a sourcebook titled "Maximum Damage" and
a trilogy of adventures titled "Die and Die Again".
F20
Gamers against Cancer Edition
Timothy Jones
2004
Flying Mice LLC
Chine Games
24
A brief (24 page) generic game system using a variation of the D20
Modern SRD. Action resolution is Stat + Skill + 1d20. Character
creation is open point-based.
Fabula
Tomas Mørkrid
1999
Cappelen
A fantasy-genre RPG a generic background and a simple,
straightforward system. Its web supplement, "Ulvetid", however,
is recommended for adults and advanced players, and has more
psychological depths, sex and grimness. cf. the
<a href="http://www.fabula.no/">official website</a>.
Fading Suns
Bill Bridges
Andrew Greenberg
1996
Holistic Design
2nd
1999
Revised
Todd Bogenrief
Vidar Edland
Chris Wiese
Andrew Greenberg
Bill Bridges
Phil Cameron
Richard Ashley
Thomas Baroli
Ruben Ramos
Mark Stout
James Sutton
2012
RedBrick LLC
A dark-ages sci-fi game set in a decaying empire where technology
is distrusted, dominated by the Universal Church. The system is
based on rolling a d20 under attribute+skill, where degree of
success is determined by the "blackjack" method (i.e. your actual
roll equals your success level, unless you fail).
Fae Noir
Justin Bow
2007
Green Fairy Games
256
A role-playing game set in an alternate version of America in the
1920s, with the addition of magic and fae beings -- elves, trolls,
and so forth.
Faery's Tale
Patrick Sweeney
Sandy Antunes
Christina Stiles
Robin Laws
2006
Firefly Games
64
Deluxe
2007
Firefly Games
96
An RPG aimed at young children about playing faeries in the enchanted
forest of Brightwood, a mythic medieval setting. The PCs are one of
four types of faery: Pixies, Brownies, Sprites, or Pookas. It uses
a dice pool system, rolling a number of d6s equal to the appropriate
attribute, where even numbers are a success, and a "6" allows you to
roll an additional die. Players may also spend Essence Points for
successes as well as magical effects or others. Character creation
is by picking a type of faery, distributing 9 points among the
three attributes (Body, Mind, and Spirit), and spending points on
Gifts.
Fallen Alliance
unknown
1999
Nebula
A spacefaring sci-fi RPG, set in the distant future 75 years
after the great Alliance has broken down. The Frontier (a large
section of the galaxy opposite from Earth) is a wild place where
pockets of civilization are separated by parsecs of chaos. There
are 10 races. It uses a skill-based system (the "ROPE" system)
with hundreds of skills. Character creation is point-based.
Familiars
Andrea Sfiligoi
2007
Ganesha Games
32
A simple, fast fantasy RPG where the player characters are magical
animals working for a powerful wizard. Character creation includes
choosing from among 14 character types (cats, bats, dogs, magpies,
ravens, doves, mice, shrews, lizards, homunculi, owls, rabbits,
snakes and toads); and selecting from among 40 magical powers.
The core book also contains an introductory adventure.
Fanhunter
Chemapamundi
Cels Piñol
1993
Fasas Wagon
Gusa Comics Inc
2nd
1994
Devir Iberia
Gusa Comics Inc
A humorous Spanish-language science fiction RPG, based on the
comic "Fanhunter" by Cels Piñol. It is set in the year 2008
of a world where comic-books, wargames, TV series, and Terry Pratchet
have all been banned by "Pope Alejo I". He is a mad bookseller who
has conquered all Europe, believing he is possessed by the ghost
of Phillip K. Dick. He has issued repression troops, the "Fanhunter",
who are responsible for chasing down and destroying rebel forces.
The PC's are rebels -- a dispersed and unorganized group of fans,
rolegamers, and inept superheroes.
Fantasia
Matt deMille
2001
New Dimension Games
180
Revised
2003
230
A traditional fantasy RPG set in an typical medieval fantasy world
populated by men, elves, dwarves, and halfmen. It has varying core
mechanics. For example, some actions use stats + 1d20 vs Difficulty,
while ability checks use stat + 1d6 vs a Difficulty of 10, 15, or 20.
Character creation is class-based, with level-based advancement.
Human characters have classes Barbarian, Cavalier, Charlatan, Cleric,
Druid, Holy Man, Mystic, Necromancer, Nomad, Paladin, Ranger, Sorcerer,
Thief, Viking, Warrior, Wizard or Woodsman. Elves have classes:
Animist, Champion, Shadow, Strider or Swordmaster. Dwarves have
classes: Elder, Glandran or Urudar. Halfmen have classes: Bard,
Burglar, Highman, Scout or Sherriff. There is also a "Story Point"
mechanic, with points given to the player which remains even if the
character dies.
Fantasy Craft
Alex Flagg
Scott Gearin
Patrick Kapera
2009
Crafty Games
Studio 2 Publishing
A fantasy game derived from Spycraft 2.0, a variant of the D20 System used
by third edition Dungeons & Dragons. It redefines core classes as
assassin, burglar, courtier, captain, explorer, keeper, lancer, mage,
priest, sage, scout, and soldier. Each class has a single "core ability,"
and characters select a talent (special ability) and specialty (extra
feat) in addition to race and class. The combat uses a version of
vitality and wound points, as well as Action Dice - which are used to
confirm critical hits, activate special abilities, and boost die rolls.
Fantasy Earth
Michael C. Zody
1995
Zody
122
A traditional fantasy-genre RPG, emphasizing realism. It uses a
complex and somewhat math-intensive system. Skill rolls are
skill + 1d10 vs difficulty, while combat uses 2d10. Character
creation uses random-roll attributes (14 attributes rolled by 3d10/3)
and classes (warrior, ranger, burglar, sorcerer, shaman, cleric)
as modifiers to point-bought skills.
Fantasy Hero
Steve Peterson
1985
Hero Games
4th
Rob Bell et al.
1990
A generic fantasy-genre RPG using the 3rd edition
<a href="GAME#champions">Champions</a> system. It includes the full
powers meta-system, used for designing magic spells (including
only a short list of 15 predesigned spells). No background is
included, but it has a short introductory adventure. The newer
<u>Fantasy Hero</u> book is a supplement for 4th edition HERO
rather than a stand-alone game: it is 60% larger (256 pages)
and includes no core rules.
Fantasy Imperium
Mark O'Bannon
2006
Shadowstar Games
430
A fantasy RPG set in medieval Europe, in the default year 1121 A.D.
It uses a percentile skill-based system (roll under stat or skill
on 1d100).
Fantasy Legend
William F. Lorenz
Mike Katzenberger
1998
Black Knight Games
159
A medieval fantasy-genre RPG and miniatures system. Advances for both
miniatures and role-playing use "promotion points" based on accomplishments,
used to buy advances. It is set on the world of Faldor, populated by
ten races including Humans, Dwarves, Elves, and reptilian Gar,
goblin-like N'Tak, orc-like N'Tal, rat-like Verminion, Sea Elves,
and Skeletons. Resolution uses a single d10 roll, that are converted
usinga universal chart to results. The miniature rules resolve in a
single roll of for unit vs. unit. It includes a magic system with
around 40 spells.
The Fantasy Trip
Melee
Steve Jackson
Howard Thomson
1977
Metagaming
Wizard
1978
In The Labyrinth
1980
This was originally a series of two compatible pocket-sized games
of combat and dungeon exploration, only nominally role-playing.
They are notable as precursors to Steve Jackson's <a href="GAME#gurps">
GURPS</a> and other games. Actions are resolved by rolling 3d6
under 1 of 3 attributes: Strength (ST), Dexterity (DX), and
Intelligence (IQ). There are no skills in the basic game. Character
creation is point-based: distribute 8 points to raise attributes
above base. "Into the Labyrinth" adds advanced rules, including
binary skills, more complex point-buy options, and an optional
critical hit location chart for hit rolls of 3-7. The advanced
system has two classes: hero and wizard, extended from the
character generation in Melee and Wizard. There are also advanced
rules for targeting specific locations, at a DX penalty.
Fantasy Wargaming
Bruce Galloway
Mike Hodson-Smith
Nick Lowe
Bruce Quarrie
Paul Sturman
1982
Stein and Day
A medieval fantasy-genre RPG. Over half of the book is dedicated
to describing the medieval period and folklore in great detail,
and the rules reflect this. There is a lot of medieval
authenticity, such as the importance put on astrology and the
Christian church. The system is complex and table-driven,
comparing stat+modifiers with a percentile roll for a result.
There is no universal mechanic. Character creation is based on
astrological sign and a random number of points. Each character
has 3 experience levels: Combat, Religious, and Magical.
The Farm
Jared A. Sorensen
2004
Memento Mori Theatricks
An electronically-published game "of hunger and horror", previewed
in the Halloween 2004 issue of Daedalus magazine. The PCs were
captured and brought to a place called only "The Farm" so they
may eventually be slaughtered and eaten by a mysterious group of
people called the Headmasters. They are trying to escape, obviously.
It uses a simple dice-pool system which allows pooling and sharing
of dice. There are two stats (Stamina and Psyche) which average 4
and determine the number of six-sided dice you roll. There are
six skills, each of which has an individually-assigned number.
Rolling a number of d6s equal to your stat, you get successes
equal to those which roll exactly the assigned skill number.
An assigned leader may be given dice, and hand out appropriate
numbers to those who need them within certain limits. There are
rules for strain and torture as well as combat.
Farscape
Ken Carpenter
Keith R. A. DeCandido
Gavin Downing
Lee Hammock
Kelly Hill
Christina Kamnikar
Rob Vaux
2002
Alderac Entertainment Group
A spacefaring RPG based on the U.S. televisions series.
The rules are a variant of the D20 System from 3rd edition
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a>.
Complete rules are not provided: basic rules for character creation,
combat, and advancement refer to the D&D Players Handbook.
Far West
Daío Pérez
Óscar Díaz
1994
M+D Editores
A Spanish-language RPG set in the American wild west.
It has three attributes (STR, DEX, CON) along with percentile skills
similar to <a href="GAME#callofcthulhu">Call of Cthulhu</a>.
Fastlane: Everything, All The Time
Alexander Cherry
2004
Twisted Confessions
An RPG system based on the use of a roulette wheel (with an
alternative mechanic using d6s). It has no setting, but rather
a meta-genre. It is about characters prone to indulgence,
consumption, diversion, and amusement. Players have a bank of
casino chips which they bet on the wheel over conflicts. Winning
not only lets you succeed in the conflict, but can allow you to
narrate the results of your success by spending extra. Character
creation is by design. Each character has five Facets: people,
assets, nerve, guile, and sobriety. Each Facet also has a Style
descriptor. In addition, characters have motivations and favors.
Fate of the Norns
Andrew Valkauskas
1993
Pendelhaven
320
2nd
2002
Ragnarok
2006
A fantasy RPG set in viking history and mythology. The original system
uses a percentile skill-based system. Character creation includes
35 occupations. The third edition explicitly takes place during the
final war between the gods and the giants, allowing players to play
supernatural beings such as Einherjar and Valkyries. It replaces the
mechanics with a system of drawing rune stones, the Runic Game System
(RGS). Each characters has a set of runes they can draw from, and a
number of runes they can draw.
Fates Worse than Death
Brian St.Claire-King
2003
Vajra Enterprises
464
A post-apocalyptic/cyberpunk RPG, subtitled "Suspense Horror and
Hope in 2080 on the streets of Manhattan". It is set on Manhattan
island in 2080, which is largely deserted with 50,000 inhabitants.
Gangs draw lines and protect their own, existing because besides
welfare, there is little the government does to protect human rights.
Most are afraid to venture to the streets, and live as shut ins,
playing in VR rather than living. It uses a detailed skill-based
system, the "Organic Rule Components" system. Character creation
uses classes and limited point buy. In order, the players chooses
personality traits and worldviews, splits 80 points between eight
attributes, chooses from among 46 classes, and split 100 points
among skills (with costs based on class). Action resolution is
attribute + skill + 1d20 vs difficulty. It has a detailed combat
system with maneuvers and three Health attributes: Blood, Body,
and Incapacity.
Féérie
Philippe Mercier
1985
Les Elfes
A French-language fantasy RPG. Written by one of the creators
of the <a href="GAME#legendes">Légendes</a> system.
Feng Shui
Robin D. Laws
1996
Daedalus Games
2nd
1999
Atlas Games
A (mainly) modern-day action-movie genre game, taking after Hong
Kong action films with wild martial arts, magic, and other
strangeness. It uses a simple system of skill+1d6-1d6 vs
difficulty. Combat is emphasized, which works on an action point
(or "shot") system. Unusually, there are full character creation
rules. Instead, there only are a set of tailorable archetypes
which fit the genre.
Fiasco
Jason Morningstar
2009
Bully Pulpit Games
132
A GM-less game of modern-day criminal action for 3-5 players, designed
to be played in a few hours with no preparation. It is intended to
emulate cinematic tales of small time capers gone disastrously wrong -
inspired by films by the Coen brothers including Blood Simple, Fargo,
Burn After Reading, and A Simple Plan along with others like The Way
of the Gun. There are four settings: Main St (a nice southern town);
Boomtown (a wild west mining); Tales From Suburbia (a suburban community);
and The Ice (McMurdo Station, Antarctica). Each setting includes
lists of Relationships, Needs, Objects, and Locations - in six
categories with six elements. Each player brings 4 six-sided dice:
two white and two black, which are pooled in the center of the table.
The players take dice from the pool to define elements of their
characters and to determine scene outcomes. On a player's turn,
the player may decide to set up the scene (framing it), and let
the group determine the outcome (good or bad), or the player can
allow the group to frame the scene, and the player can determine
the outcome.
Field Guide to Encounters
unknown
1982
Judges Guild
A science fantasy RPG, using a class-based and level-based system
similar to <a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a>,
published as a two-book set. The first book covers character
creation, which is mostly a huge list of classes and races.
The second book is a collection of monsters. The options provided
range from traditional fantasy to the bizarre (Attack Blink Cows,
or the Acupuncturist class).
Fifth Cycle
Robert Bartels
1990
Shield Laminating
A fantasy RPG set on the world of "Dolphinis", which is
at a point in history where the long-lost art of magic is returning
to the world. The first cycle was the era of creation. The second
cycle was an era of magic. The third cycle was dominated by Tyrant
Mages which created elves, dwarves, lizardmen, and dogmen along
with subhumans including trolls and goblins. The fourth cycle was
an era when all magic was shunned. The system handles character
creation by selecting a profession and then picking skills within
that profession. It includes a central magic system which is
point-based. Reviewed in White Wolf #29.
Fighting Fantasy
Fighting Fantasy
Ian Livingstone
Steve Jackson
1984
Penguin Books
Dungeoneer
Marc Gascoigne
Pete Tamlyn
1989
A traditional fantasy-genre wargame and RPG, published as a
series of books aimed at beginners. It is primarily a solo
adventure book series of fighting orcs, dragons, zombies, and
vampires. The role-playing rules (i.e. guidelines for creating
your own adventures) were in "Fighting Fantasy". This
has 3 attributes: Skill, Stamina, and Luck. The rules were
expanded in "Dungeoneer". <br>
Note that this "Steve Jackson" (UK author) is unrelated to
"Steve Jackson" (US author, head of Steve Jackson Games).
cf. the
<a href="http://www.fightingfantasy.com/">official website</a>.
I Figli Dell'Olocausto
Andrea Cortellazzi
1990
Black-Out
An Italian-language post-atomic-apocalypse RPG set in Italy,
using a detailed set of rules.
The Final Girl
Bret Billan
2012
Gas Mask Games
28
A horror movie mini-RPG meant to emulate movies where the characters
are killed one by one until only one survivor remains to confront
the killer. It is for 2 to 6 players, and a complete game lasts
1.5-2.5 hours. It suggests playing cards, index cards, and pencils
as required materials.
Fireborn
Rob Vaughn
2004
Fantasy Flight Games
224
A modern fantasy RPG set in the near-future where the PCs are human
reincarnations of dragons. It is set about 10 years in the future
in London, where over the past year magic has come out into public
knowledge. It also supports flashback sequences to when the PCs
were true dragons back during the mythic age. It uses a d6 dice pool
system similar to <a href="GAME#shadowrun">Shadowrun</a>.
A Fistful of Dice
Judas I. Zeh
2002
Azathot LLC
80 softcover
A universal RPG system, using a dice pool system. Action resolution is
by rolling d6's equal to your talent and comparing the total vs difficulty.
There are modifiers in extra dice which are not kept (i.e. +2 modifier
on 3d6 means roll 5d6 and keep the best 3).
Flash Gordon and the Warriors of Mongo
Lin Carter
Scott Bizar
1977
FGU
52
A game which handles the Flash Gordon story as a sequence of programmed
choices, similar to a "Choose-Your-Own-Adventure" book -- billed as
a "game of schematic role-playing". Each player takes on the role of
an Earthling who has landed by rocket on the planet Mongo, and attempts
to be the first group to reach Mingo City and defeat Ming the Merciless.
There is no GM. Instead, they consult the rulebook for description of
the challenges faced at each region of Mongo: such as the Cave Kingdom,
Frigia, or the Fiery Desert. Characters are defined by four attributes:
Physical Strength and Stamina, Combat Skill, Charisma/Attractiveness,
and Scientific Aptitude. Each is determined by rolling three "average dice"
(six-sided dice with values 2,3,3,4,4,5).
Flashing Blades
Mark Pettigrew
1984
FGU
A swashbuckling combat system and RPG, set in 17th century
France: the time of the musketeers. It emphasizes both combat
and social status. The duelling system is naturally rather
complex and involved. Character creation is random-roll
attributes and point-bought skills (modified by class: Rogue,
Gentleman, Soldier, or Nobleman) and profession.
FlipQuest
Quest for the Princess' Crystal
Rolando Mei
2001
Shadowcraft Imaging Group
A collectible card game with some role-playing elements, where you
build the game board as you play. There are square tiles for
locations, characters, monsters, and treasure. It has some
resolution using d6s.
A Flower for Mara
Seth Ben-Ezra
2008
Dark Omen Games
A live-action improvisational game with pregenerated characters, billed
as "an improvisational play about death, loss, grief, and hope."
The player characters are family members grieving a relative, Mara,
who just died suddenly and unexpectedly - and play proceeds in a number
of scenes for each season of the year following her death. The game
uses a Director/GM role as well as a special role for Mara's spirit,
along with player roles for up to six of Mara's immediate family.
Character creation includes picking one of six relationship types
(devoted/ competitive/ respectful/ bitter/ subordinate/ detached),
as well as picking a personal grief or regret of the player to bring
into the game. The moment that a character lets go of their regret
for Mara, the player gives an out-of-character soliloquy about that
grief or regret while placing a flower on the grave. There are no
numbers or mechanics for resolution, though there are rules for the
bounds and requirements of scenes.
ForeSight
Tonio Loewald
1986
self-published
A sci-fi RPG system. It uses a percentile system similar to
<a href="GAME#jamesbond007">James Bond 007</a>. A simplified
version of the original rules is now available
<a href="../freerpgs/index.html">free</a>.
Forge: Out of Chaos
Mark Kibbe
1998
Basement Games
A traditional fantasy-genre RPG, using a class and level-based
system with skills.
Forgotten Futures
Marcus L. Rowland
1999
Heliograph, Inc.
A Victorian adventure RPG based on early science fiction
writings: not only Jules Verne, but also "forgotten" sci-fi works
such s George Griffith and Rudyard Kiplings. This appeared as a
shareware download on the Internet for several years, and later
was published in print. Although the rules are cheaply
downloadable, the core rulebook is 151 pages - illustrated with
an index. It uses a rules-lite system with 3 attributes and
broad skills. There are both printed and downloadable
supplements on various early sci-fi works. cf. the
<a href="http://www.forgottenfutures.com/">official website</a>.
The Forgotten Hunt
John Josten
1996
Board Enterprises
A modern dinosaur-hunting RPG where living dinosaurs have been
rediscovered. Modern scientists are racing to study the
creatures, both in their native environments and in their labs,
but hunters and adventurers are the main focus. It was apparently
released in a Limited Edition as a three-ring binder at GenCon in 1996.
Forward... To Adventure!
The RPG Pundit
2007
Flying Mice LLC
162
A medieval fantasy RPG focusing on tactical play in dungeons, drawing
from the original
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">Dungeons & Dragons</a>
game, as well as some derivatives like Nethack.
Fox Magic
Christopher La Haise
Catherine Prickett
Lev Lafayette
2009
Fool's Moon Entertainment
A historical fantasy/horror game where the player characters are
various breeds of kitsune - Japanese shapeshifting fox creatures.
A character's number of tails indicates their relative success,
experience, and ability. Character creation is limited point buy,
with number of tails indicated number of attribute points and number
of abilities picked. The four attributes are Cunning, Skill, Spirit
and Wisdom. In the system, players take temporary control of the
narrative until challenged by the GM or another player. Challenges
are resolved by a d12 dice pool, rolling a number of d12s equal to
the appropriate attribute modified by Opportunities, Complications,
and Conditions. Any result of 7 or higher indicates general success,
with degrees of success determined for each die. On failure, the
challenger takes control ("Tempo"). The basic game includes a
summary of Japanese geography, history, and culture - including
details on mythology and other magical creatures.
Frankenstein Faktoria
Joe Abracadabra
2000
Portal
1st Spanish
2001
Edge Entertainment
A Polish-language horror RPG, whose title translates as
"Frankenstein Factory". The PC's are creations of doctor
Frankenstein, made up with many different body parts.
Freaks and Friendlies
Denton R. Elliot
1986
Doc's Games
A post-apocalyptic mini-RPG featuring the usual assortment of
mutants and other beasts and includes rules covering both
psionics and magic.
Freedom Fighters
J. Andrew Keith
1986
FGU
A modern military RPG about guerillas taking back America from
invaders, subtitled "North America Invaded!". The game presents
two options: either Russian or space-alien invaders.
The core rules are broken into two books: "The Character"
(96 pp) and "The Resistance" (80 pp). The boxed set also
includes a 32-page booklet of character creation charts &
tables, screen, character sheet, a sample adventure called "The
Errant Knight Gambit" (pamphlet 8 pp), Stan Johansen Miniatures
(pamplet ad for miniatures), a pin with the Freedom Fighters logo.
FreeMarket
Luke Crane
Jared Sorensen
2010
self-published
A transhumanist RPG set on a space station three and a half kilometers
wide with a population just over eighty thousand. The PCs are members
of MRCZs - ad hoc groups formed for specific purposes.
Frenzy
William E. Worthey
Gregor Hutton
William E. Worthey
1995
Venture Press
116
A small-press universal role-playing and skirmish wargaming system.
It included a sci-fi setting ("Stone Killers") and a modern US setting
("Crime Story"). It uses a special percentile system, the "Reverse
Roll", where the ones die determines success, and the full percentile
roll determines level of success. Character creation is limited
point-based, with points for the six main attributes and separate
points for the binary skills. The basic rulebook included two
sample scenarios, one for each setting.
Fringeworthy
Richard Tucholka
1981
Tri-Tac Games
2nd
1984
3rd
1990
A near-future interdimensional sci-fi RPG. In 2008 an
interdimensional portal is found in Antartica, and U.N. teams are
sent to explore these other dimensions -- consisting of those
elite capable of crossing the interdimensional "fringes". It
uses a variant of the Tri-Tac system: a percentile skill system.
Character creation is random-roll attributes, skills are
generated by assigning dice to them. Advancement is level-based,
giving extra hit points and raising skills.
Frontier Zone
Stuart Lynn Sexton
2006
self-published
87
A space-faring science fiction RPG, set in the 22nd century in the United Systems Alliance Frontier Zone. The Zone is only lightly patrolled by the United Systems Navy, whose seven fleets are spread very thinly. Rival powers include the Mordum Hegemony and the Shardon Empire. It uses a simple skill-based system. Resolution is based on 1d6 + skill versus difficulty, with die rolls open-ending on a "1" or a "6" result. Character creation is limited point-based, including choosing a race, modifying attributes by spending Bonus Points, and choosing up to three profession templates.
FSpace RPG
Martin Rait
1991
FSpace Publications
KAPCON Edition
1995
SpaceRPG Concise Rulebook v4.0
2001
230
SpaceRPG Concise Rulebook v4.2
2008
A space-opera RPG, in a background set in the late 22nd century, where
humanity and others are defending themselves against the expansion of
the Stotatl Empire and other menaces. The original edition was titled
the "Federation Science Fiction Roleplaying Game Rulebook", later known
as the "Fed RPG". The name was changed to FSpaceRPG since most testing
players refered to the game as "FED Space". The concise rulebooks
(v4.0 and v4.2) and a range of supplements are available in hardcopy,
as ebooks or on CDROM.
FTL:2448
Richard Tucholka
1982
Tri-Tac Games
2nd
1985
3rd
1990
A space-opera RPG, set in a far-flung alliance on the edge of
war. On one side is the Hagonni Empire, on the other is humanity
and its numerous allies (the "ISCO"). It includes 28 alien races
plus humans, uplifted animals, and androids. The system is a
fairly complex percentile skill system, based on
<a href="GAME#fringeworthy">Fringeworthy</a>.
FTL Now
clash bowley
2006
Flying Mice LLC
A modern-day sci-fi RPG made as a sequel to the
<a href="GAME#coldspace">Cold Space</a> game.
FTL Now is set between the end of the Soviet Union in 1990 and 2006.
The background is a parallel history, including an attack on 9/11/2001
when terrorists directed a comet into New York City that resulted in
an interstellar War on Terror.
FUDGE
Steffan O'Sullivan
1995
Grey Ghost Press
Expanded Edition
2000
10th Anniversary Edition
2005
A free-form, generic, minimalist role-playing "engine". At times,
this is intentionally more of a "how to design an RPG" guide than
a pre-made game. There are no fixed attributes or skills, and
multiple options are provided for almost everything. There are
sample psionics, magic, and clerical magic systems provided with
the core rules. The Expanded Edition provides a pre-determined
fantasy role-playing game with fixed attributes, skills, and new magic
system. The Anniversary Edition provides a host of other pre-made
and/or optional systems: a new magic system ("Degrees of Magic"),
superhero rules, cybernetics, netrunning, vehicles, dogfighting,
detailed weapons, and two alternate martial arts systems.
Fuerze Delta
Jorge Barquín
1991
Miraguano
A Spanish-language science-fiction RPG. It is set in the 22nd
century, where humanity is part of an unstable alliance of members
from five species with space travel technology. The political
fight for the authority is fierce. There is an institution that
takes charge of peace and balance between species, the Guiding
Council, but it barely has official influence. The PCs are members
of Fuerza Delta, the Council's secret side. Its mission is to keep
the peace whatever the cost.
Full Light Full Steam
Joshua BishopRoby
2006
Kallisti Press
A steampunk RPG set in a parallel history where the solar system is
being explored in Victorian times using spaceships with solar-powered
steam engines and clockwork computers (analytic engines). All of
Venus, Mars, Mercury, Vulcan, and the Belt include habitable areas.
The British Astronomical Navy is the dominant military force in space,
though many countries operate solar steamers. It uses a custom system.
Resolution uses rolling 4d6 and taking higher or lower dice depending on
the attribute level. There are six attributes (Acumen, Brawn,
Coordination, Intellect, Leadership, and Savoir-Faire) and
thirty skills. Characters also have "thematic batteries" - which are
freeform player-chosen descriptors like "Competitive," "Gentleman," or
"Inquisitive." A thematic battery can give a bonus to a related roll,
but only if it has been charged by taking a voluntary penalty on a
related roll. So a player can get benefit from "Competitive" only if
they experienced problems from that earlier. There is also a system
for tracking spotlight time in scenes by passing a note ("Scrip") that
players write on when they have a scene - also used for experience.
Funky Colts: Das 70er / 80er Jahre Actionserienspiel
David Grashoff
Daniel Mayer
2007
Projekt-Kopfkino
112 pages
David Grashoff
Fabian Mauruschat
Daniel Mayer
2009
Projekt-Kopfkino
Prometheus Games Verlag
112 pages
A German-language RPG about U.S. cop shows from the 1970s and 1980s, with
a system that emphasizes quick character creation and simple action.
Furry Outlaws
Lise Breakey
Bruce Thomas
1994
Furry Games
176 pages, perfect bound
An RPG set in an alternate 12th century England where anthropomorphic
animals act the Robin Hood myth. It uses the "Halogen System" - a
percentile skill-based system shared by the game
<a href="GAME#furrypirates">Furry Pirates</a>.
The game includes a magic system as well as stats for key characters
including Sir Guy of Gisbourne (a rottweiler), Richard Lionheart and
Prince John (lions), The Sheriff of Nottingham (a boar), and the
Bishop of Ely (a horse). The cover is a parody of the 1991 film
Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, with an anthropomorphic fox preparing
to fire a flaming arrow.
Furry Pirates
Lise Breakey
Bruce Thomas
1999
Atlas Games
176 pages, perfect bound
An RPG of anthropomorphic animals sailing the high seas as
pirates in a quasi-historical environment. It has an alternate
history similar to our own, but with twists to suit the
anthropomorphic animals and the dose of added magic. It uses
the "Halogen" system, a percentile skill-based system. In
combat, the attacker has a skill level which is added to the
defender's skill level to generate a score which the attacker
must beat (i.e. lower attack score is better).
Fusion
Palle Schmidt
Malik Hyltoft
2000
Høst and Søn
160
A Danish-language science fiction RPG, set in Denmark in 2012 of
a dark future. In the year 2007 a new "self-protection" act gives
over much power to private citizens. The PCs are all private
detectives belonging to the same firm, which is left to the GM
to define. The background is focused on the Danish capital of
Copenhagen, where most of the action occurs. It uses a
simple dice-pool system, where you roll d6's equal to
attribute + skill (both rating 1 to 6). Any roll of 6 gives
you a success, but if you roll more 1s than you have in either
skill or ability, you get a fiasco. Note that it is possible to
get both a success and a fiasco.
The Future Belongs To Us
Infinity
2013
Ataraxy Publishing
A sci-fi RPG set in a near future world in the year 2048, where all
countries have been taken over by the UNE (United Nations of Earth).
The tyrranical world government has instituted a single currency and
a complete ban on firearms. The players are members of the Freedom
Underground dedicated to destroying the UNE. Other groups include
the Hardbodies (the top criminal gang), the Brotherhood (a conspiracy
pulling strings in the government), and the Mystics (a new religion).
It uses a skill-based system called the DiceLight system. Resolution
uses 1d20, with all rolls by the player rather than the GM. Character
creation is open point-based, spending 4000 points, with an option to
use pre-created templates. Characters have seven attributes
(Dexterity, Agility, Strength, Perception, Build, Ego, Stamina)
along with a mix of knowledges, skills, and proficiencies.
Ego and Stamina determine a character's points in Passion and Energy.
Passion points can be spent to increase rolls, reroll failures, or
revive from unconsciousness.
Future Worlds
Patrick Lester
1987
Stellar Gaming Workhop
A spacefaring science fantasy RPG, set in the far future
which has both an interstellar society and magic-using "Mystics".
Fuzion
"The Fuzion group"
1997
R Talsorian
A universal system which fuses R Talsorian's "Interlock"
system with Hero Games "HERO" system (from <a href="GAME#champions">
Champions</a>). The core system is available for
<a href="http://www.thefuze.com/">free download</a>.
It has not been released in print as a universal RPG, but the
rules are included in numerous printed games including
<a href="GAME#championsthenewmillenium">
Champions: The New Millenium</a>,
<a href="GAME#sengoku">Sengoku</a>,
and other games. It uses attribute + skill + 3d6 vs difficulty.
Character creation is by limited point buy ("characteristic
points", "option points", and "power points"). <br>
"Instant Fuzion" is a simplified version of the Fuzion system used by the
<a href="GAME#usagiyojimbo_goldrush">Usagi Yojimbo</a> and
<a href="GAME#dragonballz">Dragonball Z</a> games. cf the
<a href="http://www.thefuze.com/">official website</a>.
Fvlminata: Armed with Lightning
Jason E. Roberts
Michael S. Miller
2001
Thyrsus
2nd
2002
An RPG set in an alternate history where the Romans discovered
gunpowder. It is set in AD 248. The divergence point is in AD 79
when Aufidius Caelus and Pliny the Younger survive the eruption of
Pompeii by visiting the Misenum shore, and Caelus then devotes
his life to pursuing the secret of volcanic power. It uses an
original system which includes a magic system based on Roman
superstition.
Gaesa
Jonathan Lavallee
2010
Firestorm Ink
74
A GMless storytelling game about humans plagued by Faeries, with no
defined human setting - ranging from traditonal fairy tales to modern-day
urban fantasy and beyond. Each player creates a human and also a Fae,
and each player's Fae must connect to another player's human. Play
proceeds in scenes, where there is a defined spotlight character whose
success in the scene is determined by bidding dice (d6s). Players spend
dice to get what they want, and get dice by giving control to the Fae
(aka "geis"). Geis are phrased as compulsions and abstentions that the
character must follow. Human character creation is by defining four
Elements (Head, Heart, Life, and Loins), at least 2 Goals, and 6 Supports
(i.e. things important to the character). Fae creation is by answering
three questions: "Who are you?", "What do you want?" and
"What makes you weak?"
Gallia
Ferenc Somlói
1996
self-published
A humorous Hungarian-language RPG.
Gamers
Kyle Schuant
2013
Better Mousetrap Games
A generic/universal system, drawing on the basic mechanics of the
original <a href="GAME#traveller">Traveller</a> RPG.
Resolution is by rolling 2d6 against a target number, modified by
skill (rated +0 to +6). Character creation is by random-roll
attributes and skills. The six attributes are rated 2-12 (marked
in hexadecimal as in Traveller): Grit, Awareness, Mind, Endurance,
Reflexes, Strength.
Gamma World
James M. Ward
Gary Jaquet
1978
TSR
2nd
James M. Ward
James Ritchie
Gary Jaquet
1983
3rd
1986
4th
Bruce Nesmith
James M. Ward
1992
D&D
Richard Baker
Bruce R. Cordell
2010
A strange post-nuclear-apocalypse sci-fi game where mutants (both
human and animal) and ultra-tech gadgets abound. It uses a
system similar to <a href="GAME#advanceddungeonsanddragons">
AD&D</a>, with 1d20 roll under a chart result for combat,
and percentile rolls against attribute*factor. Character creation
is random-roll attributes and mutations (there are no skills).
The 3rd edition used an unrelated set of mechanics, similar to
<a href="GAME#marvelsuperheroes"> Marvel Superheroes</a>,
but this was abandoned for 4th edition. A Gamma World supplement was
later published for the <a href="GAME#alternity">Alternity</a>
system. In 2010, a standalone game was published using the 4th edition
Dungeons & Dragons rules, entitled the "D&D Gamma World
Roleplaying Game."
Ganakagok: A Mythopoetic Roleplaying Game
Bill White
2009
Consensus Games
A fantasy RPG inspired by Inuit mythology, where the player characters
are members of a tribe that lives on an island of ice in an eternally
dark world. Play centers on how the tribe deals with the coming of
the first Dawn and the changes it brings. Play involves the use of
a special deck of tarot-like cards to generate situation, prompt
narration, and inspire characters.
Gangbusters
Mark Acres
Rick Krebs
Tom Moldvay
1982
TSR
3rd
Scott Haring
1990
A police/gangster RPG set in the "Roaring '20s", with characters as
private eyes, city cops, prohibition agents, reporters, or gangsters.
The game encouraged players to pursue their individual goals rather
than operate as a unified party. For example, a gangster character's
goal might be to hold up a bank, while a policeman character would try
to stop him -- and a journalist might tag along with the cop to cover
the story, but wouldn't want to interfere either way. There were
five 32-page adventure modules published from 1982-1984:
"Trouble Brewing" (fictional 'Lakefront City' setting),
"Murder in Harmony" by Mark Acres (a murder whodunnit set at
a high-class party), "Death on the Docks" by Mark Acres
(gang war over control of the Lakefront CIty dockworker's union)
"The Vanishing Investigator" (protecting a witness in a
trial involving organized crime), and "Death in Spades"
by Tracy Raye Hickman (a murder mystery with a random plot and
ending based on draws from a deck of cards).
Gangster!
Nick Marinacci
Pete Petrone
1979
FGU
An organized crime RPG covering from 1900 to the present,
which allows both criminal and police PC's. It is co-designed by a
former New York policeman, and includes details on criminals,
forensics, legal issues, etc. The system is skill-based, with
six attributes and lists of various police and criminal skills.
The combat system uses multiple tables.
Gardasiyal
M.A.R. Barker
Neil R. Cauley
1995
TOME
A non-traditional fantasy game set on a unique alien world called
"Tekumel", with strong Hindu and Aztec flavor rather than European.
The setting was previously published in two games,
<a href="GAME#empireofthepetalthrone">
Empire of the Petal Throne</a> (1975) and the imcomplete
<a href="GAME#swordsandglory">Swords & Glory</a> (1983).
In this game, the rules were wholly rewritten by Neil Cauley.
It uses a percentile system where the base chance of success is
70% and the die roll is modified by (+difficulty) and (-skill).
There is also another game set in the same world published by
Guardians of Order in 2005,
<a href="GAME#tekumel">Tekumel</a>.
Gatecrasher
Michael W. Lucas
N. Taylor Blanchard
1993
Grey Ghost Press
2nd
1996
A light-hearted science fantasy RPG, in a world where a
22nd-century prospector discovered an ancient transdimensional
gate on one of Jupiter's moons, and let Magic back into the
world, including dragons, angels, demons, elves, dwarves, etc.
The 1st edition has its own rules, while the 2nd edition uses
FUDGE rules as a base, with considerable world-specific character
creation rules.
GateWar: Believable Fantasy Role-Playing in the World of Vinya
Kenneth Burridge
Robert Finkbeiner
Kevin Nelson
Brian Pettitt
1994
Escape Ventures, Inc.
275 full-size perfect-bound
A fantasy-genre RPG set in the world of Vinya, first introduced
in <a href="GAME#elementmasters">Element Masters</a>. The
genre is traditional fantasy with a myriad of strange monsters, more
light-hearted than "dark". It uses a percentile skill system:
roll under skill times difficulty multiplier on percentile dice.
Results are often table-driven, including specific hitpoint tables
included for each creature type. Character creation is random-roll
attributes and point-bought skills.
Gear Krieg RPG
James Maliszewski
Gene Marcil
Stéphane I. Matis
Marc-Alexandre Vézina
2001
Dream Pod 9
208 hardback
A two-fisted pulp action RPG, set in an alternate history's 1941
where weird Nazi science has produced walking tanks and
other oddities. It uses a more pulp-oriented variant of the
"Silhouette" system: a simple dice pool system: roll dice (d6's)
equal to skill and take the best, and add attribute (-3 to +3).
Geiger Counter: Cooperative Survival Horror
Beta
Jonathan Walton
2008
Bleeding Play
A GMless cooperative survival horror RPG designed to emulate movies in
which most of the main characters eventually die such as Alien or Scream,
and perform well in single-session play. It is recommended for 5-7 players.
It uses a narrative-focused d6 dice pool system, where there is a pool of
dice for all the players and for each character, and one pool associated
with the Menace (i.e. the defined threat central to the movie).
Gemini RPG
Johan Sjoberg
1999
Cell Entertainment
A dark fantasy-genre RPG, originally Swedish-language but
also published in English. It is set in a medieval fantasy world
where an ancient darkness threatens the land. The world features
elven, dwarven, and human kingdoms along with an alternate
Church, complete with Knights Templar. cf. the
<a href="http://www.pvv.ntnu.no/~toaster/games/gemini/">
Gemini intro page</a>.
Genesis RPG
Kevin D. Clarke
Noel W. Clarke
1986
Inkeptum Ultra Visio
2nd
1990
A space-faring science fiction RPG, from a small Canadian press.
It is set in 2139, and the Earth has discovered and been discovered
by ten alien races, including some with psionic powers. The history
includes megacorps who ruled the Earth, first contact of Earth by
an alien race, and the struggles for establishing a Polysolar
Foundation. The PCs may be any of the ten races, and select an
occupation in addition: including Pirates, Explorers, Investigators,
Traders, etc. The game was published in two books, called the
"Caudex Regulum" (Book of Rules) and "Caudex Centia" (Book of Data).
The rules for most of the systems allow the players to select from
three levels of complexity - ranging from a single die role to damage
system tables calculated logarithmically.
Ghostbusters
Sandy Petersen
Lynn Willis
Greg Stafford
1986
West End Games
Ghostbusters, International
Aaron Allston
Douglas Kaufman
1989
A simple RPG based on the movies, designed to be extremely easy
for beginners. The mechanic is a simple D6 dice pool (the "D6"
system later used in <a href="GAME#starwars">
Star Wars</a>), based on one of four attributes:
Muscle, Brains, Moves, and Cool. Each character can have at
most four skills: one per attribute. Action resolution is to
roll a number of dice equal to attribute (2 to 6), with one die
being a special "ghost die" whose "1" face indicates a fumble.
If the number is greater than difficulty, you succeed. Results
can modified by spending "Brownie Points" to reduce damage or
improve rolls. In the original game, characters get three pieces
of equipment which are detailed on cards. The International
edition has no cards but has a longer list of equipment rated
for size in "hands" (i.e. number of hands to hold). The original
basic set included advice on straightforward ghostbusting adventures,
including a two-page sample adventure about a taxi cab possessed
by the ghost of a gigantic dog.
Ghost Dog: The Way of the Samurai
David L. Pulver
John R. Phythyon, Jr.
2000
Guardians of Order
A modern-day action RPG based on the film by Jim Jarmusch
about a mafia hit man who lives by the ancient samurai code.
The RPG focuses on one-player campaigns. It uses the Tri-Stat
system from <a href="GAME#bigeyessmallmouth">Big Eyes, Small
Mouth</a>.
Ghostories: Supernatural Mystery Roleplaying
Brett Bernstein
2008
Precis Intermedia Games
A modern-day investigative game, using a variant of genreDiversion system
also used by <a href="GAME#coyotetrail">Coyote Trail</a>.
Giallo in Casa Vernaschi
Maurizio Mancini
Mauro Teragnoli
1997
Qualitygame
An Italian-language murder mystery party game, part of the
"I Giochi del 2000" collection of RPGs. The title translates as
"Murder at Vernaschi's Home". It is an investigation one-shot
RPG with no GM, only an organizer who can also play.
The Gifted
David Wood
David Wilson
Michael Fahey
1993
Dark Arts Games
A sci-fi RPG of psychic powers in a dark version of the modern world.
The player characters are outcasts in a world that is paranoid of
their psychic gifts. There is no organization for them, and they
are constantly on the run to survive.
Il Gioco Di Ruolo Di Dylan Dog
Fabrizio Biasiolo
Roberto Chiavini
Jacopo Garuglieri
Michele Gianni
Alessandro Ivanoff
1991
DaS Productions
An Italian-language modern-day horror RPG, based on the popular
Italian comics character (published by Dark Horse in the U.S.).
Dylan Dog is a demon/ghost hunter. Similar to
<a href="GAME#callofcthulhu">Call of Cthulhu</a>. It also
has a sourcebook introducing the world of Martin Mystere --
another popular Italian comics character.
Il Gioco Di Ruolo Di Ken Il Guerriero
Marcello Missiroli
Marcello Manicardi
Beppe Reina
Paolo Poli
Simone Gatti
Simone Peruzzi
Roberto Di Meglio
1995
Nexus Editrice
An Italian-language post-nuclear-apocalypse RPG, licensed from the
popular anime series, Hokuto no Ken (Fist of the North Star).
The rule system is based on the French system
<a href="GAME#simulacres">Simulacres</a>.
Il Gioco di Ruolo Ufficiale dei Manga
unknown
2000
Kappa Edizioni
An Italian-language universal manga/anime RPG created to simulate
the world and the action of anime and manga characters.
Gioco Libero
P. Maraziti
1991
Fuori dal Tempo magazine #1
An Italian-language universal diceless RPG system, or a sort.
It has no dice, no rules, and possibly no GM.
Gli Ultimi Templari
Maurizio Mancini
Mauro Teragnoli
1995
Qualitygame
An Italian-language historical mystery party game, part of
the "I Giochi del 2000" collection. The title translates as
"The Last Templars". It has an emphasis on intrigue and
politics. It is a one-shot RPG with no GM, only an organizer
who can also play.
Gloire: Swashbuckling Adventure in the Age of Kings
Pete Murray
2006
Rattrap Productions
A swashbuckling tabletop miniatures game with some role-playing
aspects, based on the <a href="GAME#45adventure">
.45 Adventure</a> system.
Godlike: Superhero Roleplaying in a World on Fire, 1936-1946
Dennis Detwiller
Greg Stolze
2002
Hobgoblynn Press
A superhero RPG set in the era of World War II. The PC's are Allied
paranormal "Talents" with superhuman abilities who aid in the war
effort. While Talents are definitely superhuman, it is more gritty
than four-color superheroic. The PC's can still die, and they
have little effect on the war as a whole. It uses a dice-pool system,
known as the "One-Roll Engine". Actions are resolved by rolling d10's
equal to stat plus skill. The number of matches (i.e. d10's with the
same value) indicate speed of success, while the number matched
indicates quality of success. Development and supplements to the
system were taken over by
<a href="COMPANY#arcdream">Arc Dream Publishing</a>
in late 2002.
Godsend Agenda
Jerry D. Grayson
Brian Vinson
Kimara Bernard
Matt Drake
2001
Khepera
220
D6 Edition
Jerry D. Grayson
Paul Tomes
Brian Vinson
Mike Fiegel
Matt B. Carter
Darren Miguez
2005
Khepera
281
A superhero RPG set in an alternate history where superheroes from
another dimension walk among us after accidentally crash-landing on
Earth. Some are government agents, some are costumed vigilantes,
and others were considered gods in bygone days. They fight for and
against many different factions but all have one goal; to stop the
coming apocalypse foretold of many centuries ago. It uses a simple
system, with action resolution based on 2d6 + attribute + skill vs
difficulty. A later edition was published using West End Games'
<a href="GAME#d6">D6 System</a>.
Golden Heroes
Simon Burley
Peter Hains
1984
Games Workshop
A superhero RPG. It uses a fairly simple system. Character
creation is fast, and either custom-design or random-roll
(including random-roll powers). Combat uses a simple
action-point system, where PC's and villians have 4 "frames" (as
in comic-book frames) per round.
Gondica
Anders Blixt
1998
Rävspel
192
A Swedish-language renaissance-inspired fantasy RPG.
192 pages long in hardcover and softcover.
GORE - Generic Old-school Role-playing Engine
Daniel Proctor
2007
Goblinoid Games
58
A generic RPG system book with a horror theme, using rules adapted from
<a href="GAME#basic">Basic Role-playing</a> and the
<a href="GAME#callofcthulhu">Call of Cthulhu</a> game.
These are published based on the related RuneQuest rules released
under the Wizards of the Coast Open Gaming License.
Götterdämmerung
Anders Jacobsson
Magnus Malmberg
Theodore Berqquist
2005
Riotminds
219
A mystery game set in the 18th century, inspired by "The Brotherhood of Wolves", "Vidoqc" and "Sleepy Hollow". There are many secret societies, and dark forces never spoken about. The core game consists of two books: Lex Libris and Codex Persona. It uses a percentile skill-based system based on Chaosium's <a href="GAME#basic">Basic Role-playing</a>.
The Great War of Magellan RPG
Richard Hatch
Jonathan Bjork
2007
DGA Games
139
A space-faring science fiction RPG based on the comic book series of
the same name. It is set in the Magellan Nebula, where a human
civilization originating in the planet Kyron had established an
interstellar confederation with nine governorships. Humanity was
devastated by civil war and the post-war chaos, and evil alien
spirit guides called the Nephilim that have turned species into
war-mongering horrors including the Kitaan and the Dru-ack.
It uses an original system where you roll 1d20, trying to get
under attribute + skill but over difficulty. A second 1d20
determines special results.
Grey Ranks
Jason Morningstar
2007
Bully Pulpit Games
139
A historical RPG set in Poland in 1944, where the PCs are teenager
soldiers who join the Warsaw Uprising. The game has a pre-determined
scene structure where each scene has a specific date.
Grimm: Adventures in a world of twisted fairy tales
Robert J. Shwalb
2008
Fantasy Flight Games
224
A fantasy RPG system in the genre of fairy tales, specifically the Grimm
brothers tales but also others. It is set in a fantasy world called the
Grimm Lands, where a mysterious entity called Melusine has made their
stories real. This was first published as a setting for use with
Dungeons & Dragons (the D20 system) in 2003, but was released
with its own rules system in 2008.
GruntBuggler!
Mark Kibbe
1995
Basement Games
100
A fantasy-genre RPG system, a predecessor to <a href="GAME#forge">
Forge: Out of Chaos</a>.
Guardians
James Perham
Gideon
1991
StarChilde
A generic superhero RPG, available as the core rulebook or in a boxed
set with one supplement ("Freedom Union") and a few character sheets.
The core rulebook has no background setting but includes a sample
adventure. It uses the same basic rules system as the
<a href="GAME#justifiers">Justifiers</a> system.
Resolution is by percentile skill rolls. Character creation
has a random number of points for attributes (with a set minimum),
and randomly determining the number and category of powers.
Guardians of Sol
Joseph Hillmer
George Rahm
1992
Better Games
A sci-fi police investigator mini-RPG, published in <u>Space
Gamer</u> magazine, issue #5. It is based on the RPG
<a href="GAME#eraten">Era Ten</a>.
Guardian Universe Core Fuzion
J. Parker
Jason Libby
2005
Dilly Green Bean Games
A dark superhero RPG, set in 1999 of the modern world where superheroes
(known as "guardians") have been around for twenty eight years, only
to encounter angels come to Earth to purge the superhuman phenomenon.
It uses a variant of the <a href="GAME#fuzion">Fuzion</a>
system originally from R. Talsorian Games. It includes new superpowers
and psionics, character templates, gadgets, and other expansions.
Guildes
[Multisim staff]
1996
Multisim
A French-language Renaissance-era fantasy RPG, set in a
world where a mysterious continent has newly appeared a few
hundred miles out to sea, ripe for exploration.
Gunslingers & Gamblers
Jonathan Clarke
2006
FJ Gaming
A game set around 1876 in the American wild west. It uses a dice pool
system based on rolling six-sided "poker dice" (marked 9 through ace).
Traits are rated 1 to 5 and 5/1 to 5/5. Resolution is by rolling five
poker dice and attempting to make the best poker hand. You may then
re-roll a number of dice equal to your first trait number. If you have
5/1 to 5/5, you may then re-roll again a number equal to your second
trait number. There are 15 traits (i.e. stats), plus quirks. Quirks
are each combined advantages and disadvantages that balance, with 72
defined in the base game.
Gun Tale
Christos Giannakoulas
Panagiotis Panagiotidis
Panteleimon Pantou
Evangelos Polizoides
Emmanuel Zachariadis-Sourvos
Konstantinos I. Zachopoulos
2007
Psychis ta Lampyrismata
128
A Greek-language game set in the American Old West, using d6 mechanics
for resolution.
Gun Thief: a messy game about desperate people and violent situations
Joe McDonald
2010
Buried Without Ceremony
A diceless storytelling game for 3-4 players of modern criminal violence,
intended for one hour of play. There are three defined roles:
the Gun Thief, the Law, and the Jagged Women.
GURPS
Steve Jackson
1986
Steve Jackson Games
2nd
1987
3rd
1988
4th
2004
"Generic Universal Role-Playing System" A universal system that
focuses on realism, notable especially for its continuing line
worldbooks and sourcebooks, which now number in the hundreds. It
uses a skill-based system: roll 3d6 under 1 of 4 attributes, or
under skill. Character creation is open point-bought with many
options. The "Basic Set" includes a default magic system and
psionic system.
G x B (Girl X Boy)
Jake Richmond
Heather Aplington
2011
Atarashi Games
Cel*Style
A dating sim and role-playing game for 4 players based on the Japanese
shoujo dating genre. It is based around a particular story - a shy
freshman student named Momoko trying to decide between her three
crushes: Ichigo, Takamichi, and Risa. Each player picks one of the
four characters, then the three suitors take turns asking Momoko on
dates. The suitor plans three activity, then the players of the other
suitors help narrate what happens. The player of Momoko passes cards
to other players according to rules to show favor to them.
Hackmaster
4th
Jolly Blackburn
2001
Kenzer & Company
400
5th
2009
A humorous RPG based on the comic strip "Knights of the Dinner Table".
It uses a licensed variant of the 1st edition
<a href="GAME#advanceddungeonsanddragons">AD&D</a>
system, which adds on a set of more complex rules. Additional rules
include an honor system, critical hits, and a percentile skill system.
There is a character build point system, where points can buy skills,
advantages, attributes, or starting money. The original edition was
numbered "4th" because that was how it was referred to in the comic,
and the following edition became "5th."
Hahlmabrea
Daniel A. Fox
1991
Sutton Hoo Games
A small-press fantasy-genre RPG about professional adventurers
hired by a Council City. It formalizes "adventurer" status as a
special profession within the city. The system uses mainly
percentiles but also a mix of d8, d12, etc. Character creation
is by random-roll attributes and selection of profession
packages (which provide skills with random levels).
Reviewed in White Wolf #29.
The Hammer of Thor: The Game of Norse Mythology
Joe Angiolillo
1980
Gameshop
A boardgame with some RPG-like elements, where you play one of 365
characters from Norse mythology (each with a character card).
It includes a game board with stars and circles connected by lines,
representing places in Alfheim, Vanaheim, Valhalla, Midgard, and
so forth. Play evolves along two phases: adventures in the wilderness
to gather forces for Ragnarok, the final battle between good and evil.
The player who is on the winning side of this battle who has the
highest Reputation wins the game. In addition to the character cards,
there are card sets representing Offspring, Shape Changing, Magic
Items, Forged Magic Items, Fates, Runes, and Predictions. There is
also a color map, sheets of charts, sheets for character tracking,
counters and a rulebook. cf.
<a href="http://www.boardgamegeek.com/game/3867">
http://www.boardgamegeek.com/game/3867</a>.
Happy Birthday, Robot!
Daniel Solis
2010
Evil Hat Productions
Smart Play Games
A storytelling party game appropriate for children. Each player takes
turns starting a sentence to the story, using a limited number of words
based on a die roll and passed coins. Every story starts with the same
first sentence: "Happy Birthday, Robot!" On a player's turn, they roll
up to three dice to roll using d6s where 1-2 is "AND", 3-4 is "BUT",
and 5-6 is blank. The player keeps blank dice, passes BUTs to the
left and ANDs to the right. The player can continue to roll until
either neighbor has four dice. The player then writes a sentence
where each die is a word, and the word "Robot" can be used once for
free. Then the right neighbor can add words equal to his dice using
"and" once for free; and the left neighbor can add words equal to his
dice using "but" once for free. The storyteller player collects coins
(heads up) for each blank die used. A heads-up coin can be passed to
another player to be used as an extra word in a sentence, turned tails-up.
The game ends when a player has ten or more coins and there is the epilogue.
The rulebook includes optional rules as well as a number of sample
stories written by playtesters.
Harc és Varázslat
Tamás Galgóczi
Péter László
1991
Sportorg LLC
A light-hearted Hungarian-language fantasy RPG, whose title translates
as "Combat and Magic" -- one of the first RPGs to be published in
Hungarian. It is set in a medieval fantasy world, "Dragonfire",
in roughly the genre of J.R.R. Tolkien, R.E. Howard, and fairy tales.
The simple rules are similar to Basic
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">Dungeons & Dragons</a>.
Character creation includes choosing a race (where choices include
goblins and orcs) and one of four classes (fighter, ranger, priest
and wizard). Character attributes are percentile ratings that
increase with level. Unlike D&D, magic is based on a simple
spell point system.
HardNova ][: Space Action Adventures
Brett M. Bernstein
Matt Drake
2004
Politically Incorrect Games
A space opera RPG using a variant of the genreDiversion system
also used by <a href="GAME#coyotetrail">Coyote Trail</a>.
This is the more rules-lite retake on the earlier HardNova game.
It is set in the United Sovereign Worlds (USU), with humans,
human-like Centaurians, insectoid Kt'sorii, ape-like Digronians,
the unsightly Migado (obese with redundant organs). In addition,
there are the mutated Tarkosians, now dependent on nano-symbionts and
grudgingly accepted into the USU after earlier hostilities.
Action resolution is by rolling under attribute + skill on 2d6, with
a possible bonus die (lowest 2 out of 3d6) or penalty die (highest 2
out of 3d6). There is also an advanced system with graded
difficulties. Character creation is limited point-based, spending 10
points on five attributes ranging from 1 to 5 (Fitness, Awareness,
Reasoning, Creativity, and Influence); 30 points on broad skills; and
selected Gimmicks (i.e. ads and disads). It includes simple rules for
combat, with 5 wound levels in two types (Injury or Fatigue). Ship
combat is handled using a variant of the personal combat rules, with
ships having stats and wound levels just like characters.
HârnMaster
N. Robin Crossby
1986
Columbia Games
Core
1996
Columbia Games
Gold
1999
self-published
3rd
2003
Columbia Games
A medieval fantasy-genre RPG set in the original game-world Harn.
Harn is a beautifully and extensively detailed world based on
medieval England with a Tolkien-esque style. It uses a percentile
skill-based system. Character creation uses random-roll attributes
and background, including details of family and social role. Skills
are based on a package for background, a package for the selected
profession, and five option points. Combat is very detailed,
including 38 hit locations and graphic injuries with different
effects depending on type. "Harnmaster Gold" is a divergent
second edition by original author Robin Crosby, which will be
converted into expansions to the core rules. It includes an
optional point-bought character creation system.
HARP (High Adventure Role Playing)
Tim Dugger
Heike Kubasch
2003
Iron Crown Enterprises
A generic fantasy genre RPG, using an evolved and simplified version
of the <a href="GAME#rolemaster">Rolemaster</a> mechanics.
It uses stat plus an open-ended percentile die roll, with result
determining degree of success (where totals over 100 are a success).
Character creation is class-based, with nine classes (Cleric,
Fighter, Harper, Mage, Monk, Ranger, Rogue, Thief, and Warrior Mage).
Skills are divided into four categories: Combat, Outdoor, Subterfuge,
and Mystic Arts. Race is also a factor -- the core rulebook includes
Human, Dwarf, Elf, Gnome, Halfling, and Gryx (a strong but peaceful
orc-like humanoid). A culture is selected separately from race, such
as "Nomad" or "Underhill". Advancement is level-based.
Haven: City of Violence
Louis Porter, Jr.
2002
LPJ Design
A modern crime and crime-fighting RPG set in a fictional city
("Haven") on the eastern coast of the United States.
Action resolution uses rolling under attribute or skill
on 1d20. Character creation is skill-based including
templates for various professions.
Havoc! Live Role-Playing
Clinton J. Staples
Wendy Speary
1997
Seventh Moon
A live-action fantasy-genre RPG system, printed in digest format.
It has rules both for "boffer" combat with mock weapons and
"static" no-touch combat.
Hawkmoon
Kerie Campbell-Robson
Sandy Petersen
1986
Chaosium
Gareth Hanrahan
2007
Mongoose Publishing
A post-apocalyptic medieval science fantasy RPG, based on the
Michael Moorcock's "Hawkmoon" novels. It uses a variant of
Chaosium's <a href="GAME#basic">Basic Role-playing</a> system.
The second edition used a variant of the
<a href="GAME#runequest">RuneQuest</a> system
developed by Mongoose Publishing.
HeartQuest
Michael Hopcroft
Robert Pool
Dimitri Ashling
Ewen Cluney
Robert Boyd
Robert Bain
Ismael Alvarez
Travis Johnson
2002
Seraphim Guard
128
An RPG in the genre of shoujo manga and anime -- i.e. Japanese
girl's comics and animated shows. The game describes sub-genres
of high-school romance, "magical girl" (superheroic), and
otherworldly adventure. It uses a variant of the
<a href="GAME#fudge">FUDGE</a> system.
Hearts and Souls
Tim Kirk
2006
Better Mousetrap Games
Silver Lion Studios
A superhero RPG with a simple narratively-focused system. Each
character has a single motivation, systematized as "Drive", such as
"Love", "Guilt", or "Spirit of Adventure". Players use Drive to gain
a reroll by either improvising a monologue, or accepting Stress
points. Once Stress maxes out, though, there are required failures.
There are six attributes: Might, Deftness, Resilience, Brains,
Prowess, and Resolve. Each attributed has a rank (Human/d4,
Superhuman/d8, and Cosmic/d12) and scale (Ordinary, Extraordinary,
Spectacular). The core book includes two sample settings. The main
one is "Analog Prime", where the world's greatest superhero team were
just wiped out in an explosion. The minor one, "Millenia", has
reality slowly shifting over time.
Heaven and Earth
John R. Phythyon, Jr.
1998
Event Horizon Productions
2nd
2001
Guardians of Order
Lee Foster
Michelle Lyons
James Maliszewski
John R. Phythyon, Jr.
Lucien Soulban
3rd
2004
Abstract Nova Entertainment
A modern-day occult RPG, inspired by surreal TV series like
"Twin Peaks", "The Outer Limits", and "Millenium". It is set in the
quiet town of Potter's Lake, Kansas -- home to an Air Force base that
hosts a "Project Grayscale" and many other odd denizens. There is a
deep underlying secret outlined in the book. The first edition game
uses a diceless system based on playing cards, where you first compared
attribute plus skill vs task difficulty. If greater, you succeed
automatically, but otherwise you draw a playing card. If it is a
number card less than your total you add +1, and if it is a face card
there are special results. Character creation is limited point-based:
distribute 30 points among 12 attributes, and 30 points among skills
and advantages. The second edition uses the "Tri-Stat" system from
<a href="GAME#bigeyessmallmouth">Big Eyes, Small Mouth</a>.
The third edition uses a step die system, where you add attribute
number plus skill number plus a die roll versus a fixed difficulty of
9. The die rolled varies with difficulty, from a d20 for easy tasks
to a d4 for nearly impossible ones. Third edition character creation
is limited point-based, with 14 attribute points and 9 occupation
points. Occupations vary in cost based on breadth, and have three
ranks (Rookie, Professional, and Veteran).
Heavy Gear
Jean Carrieres
Gene Marcil
Martin Quellette
Marc-Alexandre Vézina
1996
Dream Pod 9
2nd
1997
3rd
2004
A spacefaring sci-fi RPG and tactical miniatures game, set in
6132 on "Terra Nova", the first colony planet outside the solar
system which was abandoned by Earth due to domestic strife.
Terra Nova is split between the North and South factions which
are on the edge of war. The factions briefly dropped their
differences to repel an invasion from Earth, but are now again
on the edge of war. "Gears" are human-shaped combat mecha
about 4-5 meters tall. It uses the "Silhouette" system: a simple
dice pool system: roll dice (d6's) equal to skill and take the
best, and add attribute (-3 to +3).
Heavy Metal
Croc
Mathias Twardowski
1991
Siroz/Ideojeux
A French-language sci-fi RPG, set in a near future where the
world is being controlled by a secret power using robots
troubleshooters, opposed by heroic rebels -- a la "Running Man".
Heimot
Miska Fredman
2006
Ironspine Games
272
A Finnish-language "space noir" science fiction RPG, whose title
translates as "Tribes". Heimot is set in far future 500 years after
a great disaster decimated and divided humanity. At present known
space is ruled by the nine tribes of humanity. Outer worlds are
populated by the barbaric outlanders and aliens. Characters are
by default outlawed "clanless" humans who live outside the tribal
society, though tribal humans are available as options. Aliens species
exist, but are only NPCs. The rules mechanics use 1d10 + Aptitude +
Skill versus a Difficulty number or competing result. Character
creation and advancement is point based.
Helix: The Post Apocalypse, High-Tech, Fantasy, Western Role Playing Game
Adam J. Weber
Gloria Weber
William Parker
2008
self-published
A post-apocalyptic RPG set in the year 2081 after global war has
devastated the world, and subsequently magic has been re-awakened.
The world has broken down into city-states connected by the powerful
Umbrea Corporation, and the Wastelands in between. Player character
options include Cyber Mystics, Code Slingers, Gun Jacks/Jills, and
Average Joe/Plain Jane. The game is self-published by Adam Weber,
with information at <a href="http://helixrpg.wordpress.com/">
helixrpg.wordpress.com</a>.
Hellas: Worlds of Sun and Stone
Michael L. Fiegel
Jerry D. Grayson
2008
Aethereal Forge
Khepera Publishing
An epic space opera game, in a setting inspired by Greek myth --
where spaceships travel through another dimension called the
Panthalassa or "Slipspace", deploying aetheric force screen
emitters on cables to act as sails that pull them. It is
inhabited by a variety of races, including the Nymphas, Myrmidon
Goregon, and Zintar as well as humans ("Hellene").
It uses a version of the "Omni System" from
<a href="GAME#highmedieval">High Medieval</a>,
licensed from Morrigan Press. Action resolution uses skill or
attribute minus difficulty + 1d20, interpreting the results on
a universal degree of success table. There is also a hero point
system to change rolls.
Hellboy RPG and Sourcebook
Phil Masters
Jonathan Woodward
2002
Steve Jackson Games
A modern-day magic RPG based on the comic series by Mike Mignola,
about solving occult mysteries, beating up demons, and saving the
world from Things Man Was Not Meant to Know. It uses a version of the
<a href="GAME#gurps">GURPS</a> system which is included
in the basic rulebook. The PC's can be characters from the comics,
or may create their own agents of the Bureau of Paranormal Research
and Defense.
Hellcats and Hockeysticks: A Role-Playing Game of chaos, anarchy, and decidedly unladylike behavior
Andrew Peregrine
2009
Corone Design
A modern-day RPG set in a fictional English boarding school for girls,
St. Erisian's - complete with magic and weird science. Adventures
focus on the girls pulling off schemes, plans, and capers - inspired
by the St. Trinian's series of films. Characters come from one of
nine cliques, each with its own special ability and selection of
skills - Coquette, Emo/Goth, Exchange Student, Fixer, Hockey Girl,
Nerd/Geek, Prefect, Scientist, and Sweetheart. Character creation is
point-based, selecting a clique, spending 5 points on clique skills
and 15 points on any skills, choosing a Best Friend and Rival from among
the other player characters, and an optional Personality Trait.
Resolution uses a target number dice pool mechanic, rolling d6s
equal to 1 plus skill, where every result of the target number or
more is one success. Characters begin with 10 Willpower Points which
can be traded in for extra dice. The system has a very nonlethal
physical combat system as well as social combat rules.
Hell for Leather: Gameshow Hyperviolence
Sebastian Hickey
2010
Cobweb Games
A storytelling game about a deadly gameshow where the contestants are
hunted down across the world, though the game discusses alternate
settings as long as the main characters are being hunted down by an
overwhelmingly powerful adversary. It uses a GMless system that
requires no preparation, intended for play in 2-4 hours. Resolution
involves a diceless story pip system, and a challenge system of rolling
a d10 into a circle where 3 six-sided dice are stacked, trying to get
the d10 into the circle without knocking over the stack.
Helvéczia
Gábor Lux
2013
self-published
A Hungarian fantasy RPG, set in a fantasy version of Switzerland in the period of 1650-1750,
called Helvéczia. It uses a simple system aimed at beginners, similar to
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a>.
Hercules and Xena
George Strayton et al.
1998
West End Games
A fantasy-genre RPG based on the two TV series. It uses a fast
dice-pool system (the "D6 Prime" system), with special dice
(included in the game) marked only success and failure. Roll
dice equal to your skill and count the results.
Heroes
Dave Millard
1979
Tabletop Games
A medieval fantasy RPG, set in Dark Ages Europe. It uses a
mostly percentile system. Characters are defined by their
country, social status, alignment, and five attributes (Strength,
Agility, Intelligence, Charisma, and a Combat Value). The system
is fairly detailed with the exception of combat.
Heroes and Hellions
T. Dorsey
unknown, pre-1998
Travell Games
57 pages plastic ring bound
A small-press comic-book superhero RPG. It uses class-based
character creation with 31 classes of superheroes. The combat system
is involved, including special rules for critical hits and knockouts.
Heroes and Heroines
James E. Freel
1993
Excel Marketing
118
A superhero RPG, which licensed characters from several comic
companies including Image, Malibu, and Continuity. Character
creation is point-based, including a long list of powers and
weaknesses. Combat is resolved by cross-referencing a d20
roll on a universal table. The basic game includes no background,
but has a short sample adventure. It has one sourcebook: "The Maxx",
an adaptation of the independent comic of the same name.
Heroes Forever
unknown
2001
Guild of Blades
A superhero RPG set in an alternate history where the world is carved
into numerous empires by superbeings. It features a high-power system.
Character creation includes kits, with Vampire, Werewolf, Mutant,
Sorcerer, and Policeman kits included in the core rules.
Heroes of Olympus
B. Dennis Sustare
1981
Task Force Games
2nd
1983
A Greek-myth game which acts as an RPG, a wargame, and/or a
boardgame. It includes background on gods, limited magic (from
gods or magic places), sample races, and pregen characters from
the Argonauts. It uses a skill-based system, with point-bought
character creation. There are three combat systems: Noble
(i.e. duelling), Melee, and Naval. They are fairly complex,
although Melee is fairly fast.
Heroes Unlimited
Kevin Siembieda
1984
Palladium Books
2nd
2000
A fairly gritty "street-level" superhero RPG, using a variant of
the <a href="GAME#palladiumfantasy">Palladium System</a>.
Character creation is random-roll attributes with classes and levels.
Some classes get random powers, while tech-based classes buy their
cyberware/robotics/equipment with a pool of money.
Heroic Conquest
David E. Blake
unknown, post 1990
Renaissance Ink
A superhero RPG. It uses a primarily percentile based system.
Character creation is either point-bought or random-roll.
Heroic Do-Gooders and Dastardly Deed-Doers
Mathew Van Dinter
1999
self-published
An RPG in a modern-day setting with pseudo-science and super-human
powers. It is more of an action/adventure genre with powers, however,
rather than mainstream comic-book superheroes. The setting is the
real world complete with all normal features.
Heroic Visions
William A Council
2002
New Vision Comics
A superhero RPG. The rules are a variant of the D20 System from
3rd edition <a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a>.
Hero Kids: A Fantasy Role-Playing Game for Children Aged 4 to 10
Justin Halliday
2012
Hero Forge Games
39
A simple fantasy RPG intended for young players. Action resolution uses highest die from 1d6 to 3d6, compared with opposing roll. There is a simple rule for fighting, with three hits per character. Character creation is by picking a pre-built template, including Warrior, Hunter, Healer, Warlock, Brute, Rogue, and Knight. There are guidelines for creating new templates, but not complete rules. The core game includes a 19-page adventure, Basement o' Rats, featuring lots of fighting giant rats.
HeroQuest
Greg Stafford
Robin D. Laws
2003
Issaries, Inc.
Steve Jackson Games
288
2nd
Greg Stafford
Robin D. Laws
2009
Moon Design LLC
132
A fantasy RPG set in the world of Glorantha, the setting for original
for <a href="GAME#runequest">RuneQuest</a> and
for <a href="GAME#herowars">Hero Wars</a>. This is
essentially a second edition to Hero Wars with a new title.
The Hero's Banner
Tim C. Koppang
2006
TCK Roleplaying
A fantasy RPG about the choices of a hero on the cusp of his
greatness. It uses an abstract narrative system with a GM.
Each character has three stats ("Influences") representing possible
goals in life. The player can reroll failures by raising the
highest score (possibly switching it), such that eventually one of the
three goals will win out -- leaving the other two unachieved.
HERO System
George MacDonald
Steve Peterson
Rob Bell
1989
Hero Games
5th
Steven S. Long
2002
6th
Steven S. Long
2009
A universal RPG system, also published as the 4th edition
<u>Champions</u> rules. Further editions count from
Champions, becoming 5th and 6th. Besides superheroes, several
genre books have been published for it for each edition - including
"Fantasy HERO", "Cyber HERO", "Western HERO", "Horror HERO," and
many others.
Hero Wars
Robin D. Laws
Greg Stafford
Roderick Robertson
Shannon Appel
2000
Issaries, Inc.
A fantasy RPG set in the world of Glorantha (originally the
<a href="GAME#runequest">RuneQuest</a> setting). It uses a
skill-based system with a single universal mechanic. Character
creation is (optionally) by writing a 100 word description
of the character, then extracting skills and abilities from it.
Hexicon Fantasy Roleplay: Fantasy Made Real
Kielan Yarrow
Dan Fitt
2005
Hexicon Press LLP
A fantasy genre RPG set on an original fantasy world ("Korin-Thar"),
populated by elves, dwarves, and orcs along with various other
races. Character creation includes 22 races along with 50 professions.
Character creation includes a mix of random-roll and point-based
elements.
Hidden Invasion
Paul Arden Lidberg
1995
Nightshift Games
"Invasores"
Xavi Garriga
Dicky Miracle
Miguel Antón
1996
Farsa's Wagon
An alien conspiracy RPG, with reptilian "Greys" having taken over the
government with the help of ancient human conspiracies. It uses a
minimalist dice pool system, the "Cinematic Adventure System". There
are no attributes, just "talents". You roll d6's equal to 2 plus your
talent vs a difficulty number. Character creation is by allocating
10d of talents. There is a Spanish edition under the title
"Invasores: La conspiración alienígena,"
which adapted the background information for Spain and added a new
introductory adventure ("Convergence" by John Tynes, originally
written for Call of Cthulhu).
Hidden Kingdom: A Fantasy-Adventure Game
Jon McClenahan
Stan Dokupil
Gene Riemenschnieder
1985
New Rules, Inc.
A fantasy RPG set in Arthurian times, highlighting political and
religious conflict. It was sold as a three-ring binder with a red
and blue illustration of a knight holding a banner on a horse on
the cover, and included fold-out color hex-maps of England.
You can choose from over three hundered Arthurian characters
whose statistics were given in the main book, including a mix of
knights/kings and ladies/queens. Characters also have a
spiritual/philosophical alignment based on the Arthurian cultural
context. The four alignments Pagan Powerlord (i.e. extremist pagan),
Pagan Chivalrous, Christian Chivalrous, and Christian Renunciate
(i.e. extremist Christian). In combat, a 20-sided die determines
whether you landed an effective strike against your opponent,
a 12-sided die determines the hit location, and an 8-sided die
determines the extent of injury. There is also a separate jousting
system.
Hidden Legacy
Mark A. Schultz
1999
Valiant Games
A medieval fantasy-genre RPG set in the primitive World of
Korroth, populated by 9 races: insectoid Grrites, human-like
"Humuns", dragon-like Hynchar, amazonian Inyo, lizard-like
Koothron, weasel-like Kurk, lizard-like Moudunn, enigmatic Shii,
and insectoid Zhontal'rai. It uses a d12 dice-pool system, using
special icon-marked "Success Dice" and "Battle Dice".
High Adventure Cliffhangers: The Buck Rogers Adventure Game
Jeff Grubb
Steven E. Schend
1993
TSR
A sci-fi RPG based on the original Buck Rogers comic strip. This is
a new take on the same source material as TSR's earlier game,
<a href="GAME#buckrogersxxvc">Buck Rogers XXVC</a>.
The setting is the 25th century, where there a war between the Han --
the Mongolian rulers of the Earth -- and organized resistance. The
technology includes anti-gravity jumping belts, rocket pistols,
airships, biplanes, and disintegrator weaponry. The system uses an
additive d6 dice pool: roll a number of open-ended d6s (maximum 8d6)
based on your attribute rank, +1 for applicable skill) vs a difficulty
number. Each character has four attributes (Strength, Aim, Brains, and
Health), which are each rated one of four ranks (OK, Good, Better,
Best). They then pick five binary skills. Movement and combat are
regulated by action points. Earned Experience Chips help increase
your chances. The boxed set includes three booklets, maps, fold-up
counters, along with ten six-sided dice and a bag of white and red
poker chips.
High Colonies
Edwin King
1988
Waterford Publishing House
A sci-fi RPG, set in 2188 where Earth is a wasteland and
humanity lives in several hundred space stations scattered around
the solar system. There are also "bio-gens" (biological
androids) and a friendly alien species. The system is a
percentile skill-based system, with random-roll attributes.
Does not include rules for spaceships. Reviewed in White Wolf
#15.
High Fantasy
Jeffrey C. Dillow
1978
Fantasy Productions Inc.
2nd
1981
Reston Publishing Company Inc.
A fantasy-genre RPG, from makers of the
<a href="GAME#advanceddungeonsanddragons">AD&D</a>
scenarios "Fortress Ellendar" and "Moorguard".
High Medieval: Adventure Through History
Scott Agnew
Jim Andrews
Aaron Dembski-Bowden
2005
Morrigan Press
A historical fantasy RPG that adds fantasy and magical elements to
late medieval Europe. It uses the "Omni RPG System," also released
under Wizards of the Coast's Open Game License. Action resolution
uses skill or attribute minus difficulty + 1d20, interpreting the
results on a universal degree of success table.
High Valor: Dark Age Fantasy Roleplaying Game
Tim Kirk
2010
Better Mousetrap Games
Silver Lion Studios
151
A fantasy RPG set on an original world, where demonic Fane-Lords are
returning to the Free Kingdoms of the West after centuries absent.
Races include Humans, the Sidhain ("elf-touched" humans), Dvegar (Dwarfs),
Sidda (Elves), and Fomoradgh (feline beast-men created by the Fane-Lords).
Resolution uses a dice pool system, where players roll a number of d10s
equal to their attribute and take the highest die, then add any related
trait's rank (+2 to +10). A highest die result of "10" also adds the
next-highest die. Character creation is limited point-based, with
players spending 5 points to raise the attribute pools (Will, Faith,
and Valor) up from rank 1, and then spending picks on traits.
HindSight
Tonio Loewald
1987
self-published
A variant of the <a href="GAME#foresight">Foresight</a>
sci-fi rules for the fantasy genre.
Historia Rodentia
Emily Fontana
Matthew Whitehouse
Pedro Panzardi
2010
On The Lamb Games
A miniatures skirmish game and role-playing game set in a fantasy
world of anthropomorphic animals that closely parallels the historical
Napoleonic era. The inhabitants of the various factions include
anthropomorphic rats, rabbits, dogs, hamsters, badgers, and moles --
including Emperor Moleon II. It uses a version of the percentile
skill-based rules from Mongoose Publishing's
<a href="GAME#legend_mongoose">Legend</a> RPG.
HIT
James Overton
Jonah Miller
1999
Stormcrow Games
A generic "modern action" RPG system. It has several levels of
rules complexity which work on the same stat scale and basic
engine. The levels range from "freestyle" (LARP rules, almost
diceless); "dramatist" (6 skills, point-build, d20 against
stat+skill); "gamist" (more skills, more special cases, same
basic rules engine as dramatist); and "simulationist" (still
more skills and special cases, action point move-combat rules).
Hokago Kaiki Club
unknown
unknown
Hobby Japan
Roughly: "Twilight Zone in School". A Japanese-language RPG in
the genre of "Gakuen-mono" (school genre), about schoolkids who
deal with ghosts and other supernatural beings. The rules are
a variant of <a href="GAME#basic">Basic Roleplaying</a>.
HOL: Human Occupied Landfill
Todd Shaughnessy
Daniel Thron
Chris Elliott
1993
Dirt Merchant
2nd
1994
White Wolf
A blackly comedic sci-fi RPG, set on a dismal prison planet. The
rulebook is hand-written (!!) and portrays the twisted world of
Sodomy Bikers, Wastits, Jumpslugs, and more. The rules are basic
attribute + skill + 2d6 vs difficulty, with the attributes being
Greymatta, Feets, Nuts, Mouth, and Meat.
Hollow Earth Expedition
Jeff Combos
Brannon Boren
Bruce Baugh
Eric Cagle
Jason Carl
Patrick Bradley
Steve Winter
2006
Exile Game Studio
A pulp action game set in the 1930s, inspired by the lost worlds stories
of Edgar Rice Burroughs, Jules Verne, and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.
It uses a dice pool system, the "Ubiquity System", which can use any
even-sided dice. Action resolution is by rolling dice equal to skill,
where each even result is a success. Results can be modified by
spending Style Points.
Hollowpoint
B. Murray
C.W. Marshall
2011
VSCA Publishing
A modern-day action RPG, inspired by ultra-violent action movies.
Character creation is by assigning priorities to the six skills:
values (5, 4, 3, 2, 1, 0) to Kill, Cool, Con, Take, Dig, and Terror.
Players also choose five unique descriptive traits, such as
"thirst for revenge" or "I love black magic". Action resolution
is by rolling d6s equal to skill and looking for matching sets,
trying to beat matching sets from the GM's opposed roll. Players
can gain more dice by using traits that apply, or by drawing from the
Teamwork Pool - a limited resource used when helping or praising
other players.
Hollywood Lives
Reiner Knizia
Kevin Jacklin
2004
Fantasy Flight Games
A semi-freeform live-action game which mixes party game, trading
game, and role-playing elements. A group of 10 to 25 players take
on the nominal roles of old Hollywood stars and producers, then break
up into teams and collaborate to perform three-minute trailers for
a set of films. There is an economy of cash and fame pips for the
film production, along with bonus points from awards voting after
all of the trailers are performed. The game provides a selection of
parody names of stars and movie titles.
Holmes & Company
Mario Corte
Antonello Lotronto
1986
E.Elle
2nd
1989
Universal Editrice
An Italian-language investigation RPG, in the style of Sir Arthur
Conan Doyle and Agatha Christie. The original game was focused
on pure investigation. The second edition added rules for action
investigations including firearms, car and foot chases, and
more. The second edition also shortened the title to
"Holmes & Co.".
Holocaustic Dungeons
Kristoffer A. Silver
1986
Silver Wolf Games
A dungeon crawl game, where the PCs delve into futuristic dungeons
designed to protect certain artifacts while providing media coverage
of the dungeoneers as entertainment for the masses.
Holy Lands: The Christian Role-Playing Game
Light Edition
Matthew Nigro
2004
Faith Quest Games
A Christian fantasy game, set in a generic fantasy setting. Action
resolution is generally 1d20 + modifiers vs difficulty. Character
creation is class-based, with ten classes: Bard, Cleric, Knight,
Martialist, Saint, Scout, Spy, Warrior, Devil Hunter, and Soldier.
Each class has attribute requirements, Life and Faith points, and
skill selections. The nine attributes are determined by random-roll:
Intellect, Wisdom, Patience, Strength, Agility, Speed, Endurance,
Beauty, and Charisma.
Homicidal Transients
A. Miles Davis
2011
Left of the Moon Games
A tongue-in-cheek RPG where the PCs are gangs who wander aimlessly and
kill things to get their stuff - a satire on Dungeons & Dragons
and similar games. It uses a simple rules system requiring only one
pencil, a piece of paper, and a single die.
Hong Kong Action Theatre!
Gareth-Michael Skarka
1996
Event Horizon Productions
2nd
Scott Kessler
Nicole Lindroos
Jeff Mackintosh
Chris Pramas
Lucien Soulban
2001
Guardians of Order
An extremely cinematic RPG which emulates Hong Kong action movies.
For example, your chance to hit an opponent is not based on range
or armor, but solely on the Star Power of the opposing actor, or
the character's importance to the current plot! The 2nd edition
rules were adapted to be compatible with the
<a href="GAME#bigeyessmallmouth">Big Eyes, Small Mouth</a>
system, while still keeping many of the innovative features.
Honor + Intrigue
Chris Rutkowsky
2005
Basic Action Games
225
A swashbuckling game, using rules based on Simon Washbourne's
<a href="GAME#barbariansoflemuria">Barbarians of Lemuria</a>
RPG, with new features intended for the swashbuckling theme.
Hoodoo Blues
Carl Warner
Brian St. Claire-King
2010
Vajra Enterprises
312
A horror RPG set in the modern American South, haunted by the past of
slavery, oppression, and magic. Character creation is point-based and
class-based, and includes flavor choices such as deciding on your
character's musical tastes in Step Two. Players splits 80 points
between eight attributes, chooses from among six classes,
and split 100 points among skills (with costs based on class).
Action resolution is attribute + skill + 1d20 vs difficulty.
It has a detailed combat system with maneuvers and three Health
attributes: Blood, Body, and Incapacity. The classes are:
Crossroader, Hag, Hoodoo Doctor, Loup Garou, Medicine Worker,
and Voodoo.
Horror Show
Brendan Davis
William Butler
2011
Bedrock Games
104
A horror movie RPG, focusing on monster horror. It uses a d10
dice pool system (the "Network System"), rolling dice equal to skill
and comparing the highest roll to difficulty or opposing skill.
Rolls of 10 are open-ended. Character creation is point-based, with
default "roles" (such as cop, bookworm, survivor, or scientist) which
determine how many points they get in each skill group
(defense, combat, physical, mental, specialist and knowledge).
Players can also take Shortcomings (such as "addict" or "cowardly"),
and Acquaintances - NPCs who provide one favor per session (either
support or information).
Hostage... a Pawn of Terrorism
unknown
1986
Force Four Games
70
A modern-day action RPG narrowly focused on hostage situations.
One can play a terrorist, a hostage, a policeman, or a civilian
(negotiator, policy, journalist) within the framework of a taking
of hostages. The 70-page soft-cover rule booklet includes an
extensive list of equipment (up to rocket launchers), and an
experience system based on specific objectives achieved for that
role -- i.e. a hostage earns points for hiding and surviving,
for example.
Hot Chicks: The Roleplaying Game
Scott Corum
Victor Gipson
2008
Dakkar Unlimited
A near-future sci-fi game set in 2015 of a world where an alliance of
corrupt capitalists, actual demons from the Netherworld, and sinster
alien scientists who all have their own reasons to exploit human
suffering -- especially attractive human women. It uses a skill-based
system called the "Inverted 20" System, where resolution is by rolling
under attribute + skill. Combat uses a damage save using a d20,
where failing takes damage in "shrugs". The core rules include
options for magic, psionics, cyberware, and super powers.
Hot War
Malcom Craig
2009
Contested Ground Studios
204
An alternative history/horror game set in London of an alternate 1963,
one year after a world war erupted in Europe using nuclear as well as
occult weapons. The PCs are members of the Special Situations Group.
Houses of the Blooded
John Wick
Storn A. Cook
Daniel Solis
2008
Wicked Dead Brewing Company
A fantasy RPG set on an original world, where the player characters
are nobles of the Ven -- the ruling race divided into a set of noble
houses. It uses a dice pool system that adapts Aspects from
<a href="GAME#spiritofthecentury">Spirit of the Century</a>.
The player rolls a number of d6s equal to attribute plus 3 dice for
each aspect invoked. If the total is over 10 or the opponent's roll,
the character succeeds and the player can narrate what happens. There
is also a wager system that lets the player remove a die for a chance
at more narrative power. The system focuses on the intrigue within
the nobles houses including social interaction, economics, and
clothing style.
How to Host a Dungeon
Tony Dowler
2008
Planet Thirteen Games
22
A solo dungeon-building game, where the single player traces out the
history of a dungeon from the Primordial Age through the last Age of
Tyrrany. There are a series of randomized events using assorted dice
(d4, d6, d8, d10, d12, and d20); as well as beads in two colors
to track effects.
How We Came to Live Here: Stories of the Fifth World
Brennan Taylor
2010
Galileo Games
218
A story-telling game based on myth and legend of American Indians of
the Southwest, intended for two GM-like roles and 1-3 players. The
player characters are the heroes of a village of people in a world filled
with monsters. GMing is split between the "Outer Player" who controls
external threats, and the "Inner Player" who controls internal conflicts
within the village. All players take turns setting scenes, and conflicts
are resolved by rolling pools of Fudge dice that are pushed in sets
to win an overall conflict.
The Human Interface for Fantasy Roleplaying
Martin Melhus
John F. Sasso
2002
IGS Games LLC
A fantasy-genre RPG set on an original world, published electronically.
The commercial rules include 28 character races, 66 character background
packages, 150 skills, 40 magic spells, and 85 creatures.
Hunter Planet
David Bruggeman
1986
TAGG / HPAC Pty, Ltd.
A humorous sci-fi RPG about aliens come to Earth to hunt humans
(or rather, come to "Dirt" to hunt "hoomans"), using a minimalist
system.
Hunter: The Reckoning
Bruce Baugh
Geoff Grabowski
Angel McCoy
Greg Stolze
et al.
1999
White Wolf
A modern-day monster-hunting RPG, where the PC's are normal humans
who find that they have supernatural powers ("Edges") which allow
them to notice and fight monsters hidden around us. It is set in
the "World of Darkness", filled with vampires, werewolves, wraiths,
mummies, and other supernatural creatures. The origin and purpose
of the hunters' powers remains an unknown mystery. It uses the
"Storyteller" dice-pool system.
Hurlements
Valerie Bizien
Jean-Luc Bizien
1989
Éditions de la Lune Sang
A French-language historical RPG where the PC's are with
a caravan that has slowly rolled thru France from the middle ages
to the beginning of the 20th century.
Hyperborean Mice
Frank Sronce
2010
Kiz and Jenn Press
100
A fantasy-genre role-playing game in the swords and sorcery subgenre, as
portrayed by anthropomorphic mice and rats. It is set in the valley of
Hyperborea, where albino mice with magical powers (called the White Lords)
rule over an empire threatened by barbarian rat tribes, deadly predators,
and political intrigue. Instead of fantasy monsters, there are giant
predators such as foxes and owls as well as smaller ones such as shrews.
It uses an original system, with resolution based on attribute + skill + 2d6
vs. difficulty, with every 5 points that you succeed for fail by being
one level of success. Character creation is limited point-based.
The attributes are Agility, Brawn, Cleverness, Perception and Magic -
with derived combat stats based on averages between these, such as
Melee (Agility + Brawn) and Dodge (Agility + Cleverness). It includes
an original magic system focused around six different magical arts and
four levels of spell effects.
ICONS: Superpowered Roleplaying
Walt Ciechanowski
Morgan Davie
Steve Kenson
Gareth-Michael Skarka
2010
Adamant Entertainment
Assembled
2014
Adamant Entertainment
A superhero RPG using a simple original system. There is no setting although there are sample
characters. Action resolution is based on attribute + 1d6 - 1d6 (adding a positive and subtracting
a negative die) compared to difficulty. Only the player rolls to resolve contests.
Character creation is random-roll including origin, attributes, the number and type of powers,
and specializations. The attributes are Prowess, Coordination, Strength, Intellect, Awareness,
and Willpower. There are over 70 powers in the core rules. In addition, characters and the
team of player characters create freeform positive Qualities (such as Secret Identity, Connections,
or Motivation) and negative Challenges (such as a Fear or Vulnerability). Characters can spend
Determination Points to gain advantages through Qualities, and gain Determination Points by invoking
Challenges. Advantages can make small changes to the world, boost die rolls, recover lost Stamina,
and generate Stunts with your powers.
Idyll: Romantic Fantasy
James Stubbs
2007
Heyoka Studios
14
A romantic fantasy mini-RPG (14 pages), that emulates the fiction
popularized by authors such as Tamora Pierce, Mercedes Lackey and
Tanith Lee. It uses a licensed variant of the "1PG" system from
Deep 7, Inc. -- whose basic rules fit on one page. Resolution is
roll a d6 and try and get under your attribute or skill. The basic
game also includes custom character sheets, magic rules and sample
spell list, referee advise, six adventure scenarios and custom genre
rules specific to the genre.
Imagine Role Playing System
W. Michael Tenery III
1998
Imagine
A universal RPG system, based on the "Players Guide" (348pp).
It uses a percentile skill-based system except for combat which
is d20 based. Skills are broken up into class skills, racial
skills, and social skills. Character creation is class-based
(warrior / rogue / priest / mage), with
random-roll attributes. Character advancement is level based.
Immortal: The Invisible War
Ran Ackels
1994
Precedence
2nd
1999
A modern-day-magic RPG about shape-shifting immortal beings from
a long-past mystic accident which created them, fighting other
immortals. It uses a step-die system, with limited point-buy
character creation.
The Imp Game, Mischief & Mayhem
Nate Petersen
2005
Neo Productions Unlimited
31
A humorous fantasy RPG where the player characters are imps -- tiny
bumbling demonic henchmen working for a fiendish wizard played by
the GM. It uses a simple system where the player must roll under a
target number on 2d6. This is not based on the difficulty of the
task, but rather is an absolute number which is independent of the
player and circumstances. The target number is raised only by
players spending "Guts Points," which are a sort of hero points
for the game. The target number starts out at 2, is raised one-for-one
by spending Guts points. After a successful roll, it is reset to 2.
Character creation is class-based, including classes such as
Big Dumb Imps, Smart Imps, Devious Imps, and Crazy Imps.
Successful missions or quests can earn "Praise Points" from the
Imp's master. The Imps can use Praise Points between sessions
to purchase new traits and abilities, which range from firebreathing
to kleptomania and pacifism.
Imperium 3000
Torbjørn Lien
1993
Lovehulen Spilldesign
A Norwegian-language diceless sci-fi RPG. It is set in a chaotic
future where intelligent machines are threatening human existence
in the whole galaxy.
In a Wicked Age
Vincent Baker
2008
Lumpley Games
A sword and sorcery fantasy role playing game, with abstract mechanics
that include random situation-generation mechanics to create characters
and create dramatic conflicts for them. A game begins by generating
four entries for each of the four Oracles (16 total), with the Oracles
being predefined as "Blood & Sex", "God-kings of War",
"The Unquiet Past", and "A Nest of Vipers." It uses a step-die system,
where the attributes are the six Forms, namely: "Covertly", "Directly",
"For Myself", "For Others", "With Love", and "With Violence". Each
is rated from d4 to d12, and player-defined particular strengths are
added as modifiers. Resolution is handled by highest die of two
Forms plus modifiers, and the winner may impose penalties on the
loser -- but the result in-fiction must be agreed on by both players.
Incursion
Richard Tucholka
1992
Tri-Tac Games
A sci-fi RPG about humans abducted from Earth who escape their
alien abductors. Set in the present, PC's are part of the masses
who hardly realize that thousands of people are vanishing every
year -- until they are woken from cryo sleep by a 4 foot tall
cockroach and was asked "Help us!" The characters are lost in a
fallen alien empire of a hundred million inhabited worlds,
including 40 different alien races.
Inferno
Gabe Ivan
1994
Death's Edge Games
136
A fantasy/horror RPG set in Hell -- with characters ranging from a
priest hunting through Hell for souls wrongly imprisoned to a vile
necromancer to a Hellspawn. Action resolution is roll under stat
on 1d20. Character creation is by choosing race (mortal, shade,
hellspawn, or imp); randomly rolling attributes with modifications for
race; choosing a class (priest, layman, or necromancer for mortals and
shades; demon for hellspawn and imps); and finally determining skills
by a mix of class and point-spending. Class also determines faith
status: Faithful, Doubtful, or Infernal. The game includes two types
of magic: divine (for priests) and sorcery (for necromancers).
Inferno
Andrea Sfiligoi
1993
Nexus Editrice
An Italian-language horror RPG, based on the French system
<a href="GAME#simulacres">Simulacres</a>. The player
characters are angels or demons (generally demons). It includes
a list of major demons based on traditional western demonology,
and rules for witchcraft (to be used in games set in the Dark Ages
or in the contemporary world).
Infernum
Gareth Hanrahan
2005
Mongoose Publishing
A fantasy game set in hell, where the player characters can be demons,
fallen angels, mortals, or damned souls struggling to conquer and
become lords within the Pit (as it is known). It uses a variant of
the D20 System of third edition
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a>.
Infinite Legends Roleplaying Game
Jason Broadley
Robert Frey
2004
Darkharbor Games
160
A universal RPG system, including an involved combat system emphasizing
realism, and a generic effects system for representing magic, psionics,
cybernetics, and so forth. It uses a target number dice pool resolution --
roll a number of d10s equal to stat / 2, and each roll higher than
difficulty (1-9) counts as one success rank. There are 18 attributes
divided into Physical, Mental, and Spiritual -- where each category has
six functions: fortitude, force, aptitude, interface, martial, and
structural. For example, the Physical Force attribute is Strength.
Character creation is open point-based, buying attributes, skills,
and positive and negative traits with Development Points.
Infinite Powers: Superheroic Action Role Playing Game
Levi Mote
2011
Bonsai Games
104
A superhero RPG using a simple dice pool system. The player rolls
a number of d8s equal to stat (attribute + skill) and compares the
total of all dice to difficulty or opposed roll. There are eight
attributes (rated 1-50: Fighting, Agility, Intelligence, Reflexes,
Willpower, Presence, Health, Durability. There are also 19 skills
(rated 1-3) and over 50 talents - similar to advantages or feats,
as well as over 150 example powers. There is no setting, but there
are 4 sample heroes and two teams of sample enemies.
The Infinity System
Derrick Charbonnet
Terry Podgorski
1978
Threshold Games
An universal RPG movement and combat system (36 pages), intended
to encompass vehicles and weapons from the stone age to the
future including fantasy. It was a skill-based system using
d20's for hit and damage. Character creation was random-roll
attributes (3d6), but had no classes or levels. The original
rulebook included a very limited magic system. There were no
supplements.
In Flames
Greg Saunders
2011
Fire Ruby Designs
A sci-fi RPG that draws from Haitian Voudoun mythology, where reality
includes both the material world (the Flame Worlds) and the spirit
world (the Understar). The player characters are exiled Loa - godlike
beings from the Understar who are now trapped in human bodies as
punishment for their crimes. It uses the "Mini 6" system, a variant
of the OpenD6 system that derives from West End Games'
<a href="GAME#d6">D6 System</a>. It adds in two scales
for Guilt and Dislocation. Guilt shows how close a character is to
forgiveness for their crimes, while Dislocation shows how strongly
they are connected to their host body.
In Harm's Way: A Napoleonic Naval Role-playing Game
clash bowley
2010
Flying Mice LLC
A historical RPG set in Napoleonic era Europe as romanticized in the
fiction of authors like Forster, O'Brian, Parkinson, Lambdin, and Pope.
It uses a dice pool system, the StarPool dice mechanic, also used in the
<a href="GAME#starcluster">Starcluster</a> RPG.
Inner City
Chris Clark
1982
Inner City
A humorous modern-day action RPG, based on playing cops or crooks
in a universe modeled after the really bad police shows of the
70's. It has 3 supplements: "Peacekeepers", "Pavement Pounders",
and "The Mug Book".
In Nomine
1st [French]
Croc
1989
Siroz
2st [English]
Derek Pearcy
1997
Steve Jackson Games
A modern-day-magic RPG about the ongoing War between angels and
demons, where both sides can be ugly and treacherous in trying to
win the battle of intrigue over men's souls. The original
French-language game came in two parts ("In Nomine Satanis /
Magna Veritas"), and was much more tongue-in-cheek than the
American game. The mechanics of the English game are a fixed
roll of 2d6 versus skill, with the quality of success determined
by a third die (dubbed "d666").
Inquisitor: The Battle for the Emperor's Soul
Gav Thorpe
2001
Games Workshop
A "narrative wargame" set in a horrific future in the 41st millenium.
This is a miniatures wargame played on a table-top with miniatures
for each PC, but it requires the part of a game-master and has added
narrative elements. It uses a percentile based system.
In Scolare Laboris / Magna Delirium
unknown
unknown
Frères-Dragons Éditions
A French-language horror RPG about school boys and girls (about
college age) stuck in a demon-operated school. Formerly known as
"Compte à Rebours".
InSpectres
Jared Sorensen
2002
Memento Mori Theatricks
Wicked Dead Brewing Company
In a modern-day setting unabashedly owing much to Ghostbusters, the
supernatural is on the rise and publicly acknowledged. The public's
reaction certainly is: ghosts, vampires, werewolves, and other horrors
are a source of embarrassment rather than widespread panic. The game
is about InSpectres, Inc. -- a franchise operation dedicated to
"fighting the forces of darkness so you don't have to", and willing to
employ just about anyone to do it. It uses a narrative dice-pool
system where a roll determines whether the player or the GM narrates
the results. Impairment can occur in the form of Stress Dice.
There is also a "Confessional" mechanic, which allows players to
narrate changes to the scene by narrating in-character as if from a
later time. PC's have four broad Skills (Athletics, Academics,
Technology, and Contact) which are point-allocated, plus a freeform
Talent. The PC's franchise also has stats which affect rolls.
Interstellar Elite Combat
Dave Miller
1990
Game Masters Associated
A sci-fi roleplaying line, including one supplement dealing
with artic combat. Reviewed in White Wolf #28. The line may
have been sold to <a href="COMPANY#wizardsofthecoast">
Wizards of the Coast</a> in 1994, but as far as I know
they did not publish anything for it.
Invaderz
James Desborough
2008
Postmortem Studios
57
Pocket
2011
118
A humorous game where the player characters are low-level footsoldiers
in a massive invasion of Earth. These can be warrior clones of the
planet-sized Jerkian Emperor or various slave races to the Jerkian
invaders. They are frequently given peculiar orders from high command,
and often survive only by betrayal of their fellows to rise in the ranks.
It uses a variant of the "Beer and Crisps" system from the
<a href="GAME#urbanfaerie">Urban Faerie</a> game.
Ironclaw
Jason Holmgren
1999
Sanguine Productions
An anthropomorphic fantasy-genre RPG, in a neo-Elizabethan
fantasy setting dealing with the rise of technology and the
middle class. It uses a loose skill-based system, where
attributes and skills are rated on a step-die system (d4, d6, d8,
d10). Roll (attribute die) + (skill die) vs difficulty.
Iron Gauntlets: Heroic Fantasy Roleplaying
Brett Bernstein
2004
Politically Incorrect Games
89
A simple fantasy-genre RPG aimed at beginners, using a variant of the
"Impresa" system. Action resolution uses a d10 dice pool, rolling
a number of dice equal to your attribute, with each roll under skill
counting as one 'step'. Difficulty is expressed as number of steps
required for success.
Ironhedge
John Brooke
1987
Empire Wargames
2nd
1989
A fantasy system with supplements for other genres: "Ganghedge"
(inner city gangs), "Starhedge" (space opera), and "Westhedge".
Iron Heroes
Michael Mearls
2005
Malhavoc Press
256
The core book of a fantasy genre RPG, a variant of the third edition
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a>
Player's Handbook that focuses on warriors and weaponed combat
more than flashy magic.
It Came from the Late, Late, Late Show
Bradley K. McDevitt
Walter H. Mytczenskyj
1989
Stellar Games
A bad-movie parody RPG.
It's Complicated
Elizabeth Shoemaker
2008
Dissolute Games
Revised
2010
A storytelling game about convoluted, messy, compelling, and
occasionally one-sided relationships - designed to facilitate play
in the style of movies like The Royal Tenenbaums, and television
shows like Ugly Betty and Pushing Daisies.
It Was a Mutual Decision
Ron Edwards
2006
Adept Press
A story-oriented game about romantic break-up, with the possibility
that one is an evil were-rat.
Jadeclaw
Jason Holmgren
2001
Sanguine Productions
An anthropomorphic fantasy-genre RPG, in fantasy setting based on
Chinese mythology. It is a new worldbook for
<a href="GAME#ironclaw">Ironclaw</a>, using the same
system.
James Bond 007
Gerard Christopher Klug
1983
Victory Games
An espionage-adventure RPG, based on the film series (which were based
on the books by Ian Flemng). It uses a percentile skill-based system,
with a universal chart that gives four Quality Ratings of results.
Quality Ratings are emphasized over success/failure in the system.
It also includes a Hero point system where points can be spent to
modify the outcome of rolls. Character creation is open point-based,
allowing characters at "Rookie", "Agent", and "00" levels.
Jeremiah: The Roleplaying Game
Scott Agnew
2005
Mongoose Publishing
Morrigan Press
A post-apocalyptic RPG based on the graphic novel series
by Hermann Huppen, and subsequent television series adapted
by J. Michael Straczynski. It is set in the United States
fifteen years after a mysterious disease called The Big Death
wiped out everyone over the age of puberty. It is a complete
game using variant of the D20 System of third edition
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a>.
The basic classes are Brainboy, Guardian, Jock, Mystic,
Scavenger, Shepherd, Thief, Trader, and Wanderer.
John Carter, Warlord of Mars
M. S. Matheny
1978
Heritage Models
A pulp sci-fi miniatures system and RPG, based on the novels by
Edgar Rice Burrough's. It is primarily wargame in flavor, but
does provide background on Barsoom and its cultures.
Journeyman: A Science Fiction Role-Playing Game
Frederick Goff
1989
Infinity Games
This is a space-faring hard science-fiction genre RPG. There is no
specific campaign setting, but it discusses various space-faring
campaign options. It includes description of 3 human sub-races and
6 detailed and realistic alien races, rules generating solar systems
and planets, and rules for soceity tech levels. The system
resolves actions by d10 + skill - difficulty vs a flat value of 10
to determine success. Character creation has seven random-roll
(3d6) attributes and profession templates which determine starting
skills. Skill increases are point-bought. It has an extensive
section on space travel and space combat, including appendices
with the real-world equations they are based on.
Jovian Chronicles
Phillippe Boulle
Jean Carrieres
Wunji Lau
Marc-Alexandre Vézina
1997
Dream Pod 9
A spacefaring mecha RPG, set in 2210 after an optimistic
expansion into the solar system has founded the "Jovian
confederation" of space colonies. Earth is now dominated by a
central government ("CEGA"), following a long period of
depression and unreset caused by pollution and ecological
disasters. In 2210, CEGA lost a brief war with the Jovian
confederation, fought over an Earth scientist defecting with the
secret of "cyberlinkage". It uses the "Silhouette" system: a simple
dice pool system: roll dice (d6's) equal to skill and take the
best, and add attribute (-3 to +3).
Judge Dredd: The Role-Playing Game
Boxed Set
Marc Gascoigne
Rick Priestley
1985
Games Workshop
Hardback
1989
A futuristic sci-fi RPG set in a dark urban nightmare, based on
the comic book series by Alan Grant and John Wagner. In the
future, urban crime has become so rampant that elite autonomous
"Judges" are employed who act as policeman, judge, jury, and
executioner. It uses a simple percentile system, with involved
combat rules including 10-phase turns and hit location.
Attributes are Strength and Initiative; skills are Drive, Street,
Tech, Medical, Combat, and PSI. There were four supplements:
"Judgement Day" (Scenario 1986), "Slaughter Margin" (Supplement
1987), "Judge Dredd Companion" (Supplement 1987), and
"City Block" (Supplement 1987) . cf. Ivan Hanley's
<a href="http://www.geocities.com/Area51/Dungeon/6893/Dredd.htm">
Judge Dredd</a> page.
The Judge Dredd Role-Playing Game
Matthew Sprange
2002
Mongoose Publishing
A futuristic sci-fi RPG set in a dark urban nightmare, based on
the comic book series by Alan Grant and John Wagner. In the
future, urban crime has become so rampant that elite autonomous
"Judges" are employed who act as policeman, judge, jury, and
executioner. The rules are a variant of the D20 System from 3rd edition
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a>.
Complete rules are not provided: basic rules for character creation,
combat, and other systems refer to the D&D Players Handbook.
El Juego de Rol Flynn
ToniSan El Magnifico
Carlos Surreal
2002
La Cocoguawa
A Spanish-language humorous mini-RPG where all of the PC's believe they
are Errol Flynn. During the session it is revealed who is the real
Errol and who are the guest stars.
Juggernaut
Jason Morningstar
2015
Bully Pulpit Games
A card-based live-action roleplaying game for 3-6 players, aimed for a session of about two hours.
It is set in the U.S. of an alternate July 1950, where a group has invented a computer that can
see the future.
Juggernauts: A Gun Stroking Roleplaying Game
Kevin R. Brown
2003
Collision Entertainment Design
A humorous action-genre RPG set in an ultra-modern Earth soiled with
the supernatural. Now, werewolves, aliens, vampires, and more
have set the world awry. The PCs are heavily-armed and nearly
unstoppable forces. It uses a simple skill-based system with
three attributes and d10's for resolution.
Justice, Inc.
Aaron Allston
Steve Peterson
Michael A. Stackpole
1984
Hero Games
A generic pulp action RPG, in a two volume set: rulebook and
campaign book. The system is a variant of the 3rd edition
<a href="GAME#champions">Champions</a> rules, but instead of the
superpowers meta-system, there were skill-like psychic powers.
The campaign book includes a discussion of different pulp genres,
a campaign setting (The Empire Club), an overview of the 1930's,
and a half-dozen pulp adventures.
Justifiers
Gideon
Blaine Pardoe
1988
StarChilde
A sci-fi RPG in a dark future where "Transmatts" (i.e. stargates)
allow limited teleportation to a host of Earth-like worlds.
Megacorporations hire mercenary teams ("Justifiers") to "pacify"
new worlds for colonization and exploitation. Justifiers are
uplifted animals with limited rights, trying to eventually buy
their freedom. It uses a simple percentile skill-based system,
including a choice of 28 anthropomorphic animal races (from albatrosses
to rhinos!).
KABAL
Ernest T. Hams
1980
Kabal Gaming Systems
2nd
1982
A medieval fantasy-genre RPG, using a math-heavy system and
including detailed dungeon maps. The title is an acronym for
"Knights and Beserkers and Legerdemain". It uses a percentile
system. Character creation is random-roll attributes (6d20 for
eight attributes). The boxed set includes four booklets:
player's guide, rules, magic spells, and creature catalog.
Kabal
unknown
1988
Edizioni Rune
An Italian-language RPG printed in a small-press (photocopy)
fanzine named "Rune" -- part of a local RPG club, called
"Lords of Dragons". It is a modern-day horror-genre game, set
in Northern Italy with the addition of various mad cultists
and strange curses. The system is similar to "Call of Chtulhu"
with a simple D6 mechanics and rules for ritual magic.
Kagematsu
Danielle Lewon
2009
Cream Alien Games
40
A narrative-heavy single-session historical storytelling game for 3-6
players, set in Japan in 1572. The scenario is that a wayward ronin
named Kagematsu flees to a village - and several young women conspire
to win his affections and convince him to defend their village from
a deadly threat. A female player plays Kagematsu, while other players
play various women of the village. Game play is divided into Courtship
and Confrontation. In Courtship, the women characters use their Charm
or Innocence in a contested roll versus a number of dice specified by
the particular Affection they are trying to get.
Kalévala
Luigi Castellani
1996
Qualitygame
An Italian-language fantasy RPG based on Finnish mythology,
part of the "I Giochi del 2000" collection. The title is from
the Finnish epic.
Káosz
Tibor Bihon
Lajos Hüse
István Nemes
2001
self-published
A Hungarian-language fantasy RPG.
Karma
Matthias Heimpold
Oliver Hoffmann
Linda Heweker
1994
Feder & Schwert
A German-language oriental fantasy RPG. "Honor is the law of
<u>Karma</u>. Imprisoned between Yin and Yang your
characters experience fascinating scenarios within a world of
the spirit and demons..."
The Karma Roleplaying System
Julie Ann Dawson
2008
Bards & Sages Publishing
A skill-based universal system featuring a detailed magic system.
Resolution is based on 1d20 + attribute vs. difficulty or opposing
roll. Character creation is point-based. There are 12 attributes
rated from 0 to 5 divided into three groups: physical, cerebral and
spiritual. Characters start with rank 1 in each, and have 6 attribute
points to add to them. They also have a profession package and 15
starting points that can go to any of attributes, skills, damage
threshold, or mana.
Kata Kumbas
Agostino Carocci
Massimo Senzacqua
1984
Bero Toys
2nd
1988
E.Elle
An Italian-language fantasy RPG, set in an alternate medieval
Italy inspired by Italian folklore, fairy-tales and classic myths.
Kayfabe: The Inside Wrestling Game
Matthew Gwinn
2002
Errant Knight Games
A pro-wrestling RPG using a storytelling-emphasized system,
published electronically. The fights are actually faked and
are resolved as such -- while the players work on promotion,
showmanship, and other aspects of being a wrestler.
It uses a simple d6-based dice pool system.
The Kerberos Club (FATE Edition)
1st FATE
Benjamin Baugh
Mike Olson
2011
Arc Dream Publishing
372
A science fantasy game where the player characters are super-powered
individuals in Victorian England of an alternate history. The Kerberos
Club is a private group of individuals with powers who battle threats to
the Empire and world. In the alternate history, Queen Victoria becomes
a mystic embodiment of the British Empire, while inventions appear such
as machine men, flight devices, and lightning guns. Faerie is annexed
into the Empire after a war, leading to even more over-the-top action
towards the end of the era. The setting was originally published as
sourcebooks for Savage Worlds and Wild Talents, while the FATE edition is
a standalone game using a variant of the FATE system called "Strange FATE"
intended for use with superhero settings.
Kevin & Kell Roleplaying Game
Jamie C. Borg
Michael Hopcroft
2005
ComStar Media, LLC
A anthropomorphic animals RPG based on the long-standing webcomic
by Bill Holbrook. It is set in a twist on the modern world where
there are only animals instead of humans, with the canonical
characters being a married couple who happen to be a wolf and
a rabbit -- now with kids in school and a mix of problems of
domestic and wild problems. The system is based on the
<a href="GAME#action">Action!</a> System from
Gold Rush Games.
Key-RP
David Sharrock
Wyn F Dawkins
Suzanna Hope
2007
Forever People Digital Press
A universal RPG system, designed primarily for use with play-by-email games,
as well as tabletop. The basic rules are intended for modern-day and
horror genre, but an appendix includes optional rules for fantasy and
science fiction genres. Action resolution is roll under stat + skill
on 1d20. Character creation is limited point-buy: 35 points among
the five attributes (Stamina, Muscle, Skill, Academia, Sense), plus
five points among skills.
Khaotic
Kathleen Williams
Joe Williams
1994
Marquee Press
An alien invasion RPG, where the PC's psychically project
themselves to a distant planet to possess monsters who are
invading Earth. The "Trans-Ego Device" used was invented in 1944
by Dr. Isabella Bayne, who is also the evil mastermind behind the
invasion from the "tech noir" world of Xenos. The PC's are
members of the International Society of Enlightened Scientists
(ISES) who took charge of the TED. The catch is that the whole
party possesses one creature: only one member of the party at a
time can control the host, while those who are not in control can
use psychic powers and offer advice. It uses a variant of the
system from <a href="GAME#legendarylives">Legendary Lives</a>.
Khelataar
Stefan Burstrom
Bjorn Wahlberg
Micke Nordin
Hans Sundqvist
Hakan Jonsson
Anders Blixt
1989
Lancelot
A Swedish-language fantasy RPG set in the isolated island realm
of Khelataar, where Iron Age clans guard their territories and
clash with each other. The game is focused on human interaction;
common fantasy cliches such as monsters are toned down or
absent. The rules are advanced but demand a lot of
bookkeeping.
Khymir: The Role-Playing Game
Mark E. Rogers
Rich Staats
2006
self-published
A fantasy RPG set in the city of Khymir and its environs in the world
of Thorgon Karrelssa - the setting for Mark E. Rogers' books Zorachus,
The Nightmare of God, and the Blood of the Lamb series. It uses a
skill-based system where flat numbers are converted into die rolls.
By default every 7 points of stat becomes 2d6, so if skill + modifiers
is 15, that would be rolled as 2d6+1 and compared to difficulty.
KidWorld
Brian St. Claire-King
Elroy LaSanta
2009
Vajra Enterprises
276
A post-apocalyptic game, set in after a worldwide plague has killed
50% of the adult population and left the remainder blinded, leaving
kids as the majority. Many adults began to capture and train kids to
be their armies, and many kids rebelled against adult rule.
Resolution uses 1d20 + attribute + skill versus a target number.
Character creation is limited point-based, with the number of points
for attributes depending on age. Adult characters get 90 points, kids
get fewer depending on age. There are 3 classes for adults
(Brains, Brawns, Mouth) and 9 for kids (Builders, Cadets, Ferals,
Horse Riders, Inheritors, Nurturers, Radicals, Scouts, Students).
It has a detailed skill system with over a hundred skills. Each
character spending 100 points on skills, with cost per level
determined by class.
Kill Puppies For Satan
Vincent Baker
2002
Lumpley Games
A tongue-in-cheek game where the PCs are low-class demons who exist
to cause minor pointless misery and annoyance to the world. By
committing evil, they collect power for low-rent miracles to further
their work.
Kingdom of Nothing
Jeff Himmelman
2010
Galileo Games
An urban fantasy RPG about homeless people, the Lost, who have suffered
an unknown trauma and begun to forget even who they are and where they
come from. As they are ignored, they slip through the cracks of their
world into a mysterious realm filled with nightmarish secrets. Character
creation is point based, with players assigning the two attributes
(Lucidity and Survival), free-form skills, an Echo (an object that
guides the character) and Burden (what is holding them back).
Resolution is based on coin flips, where the player flips a mix
of coins from a cup, and each head gives successes. Pennies are
from attributes and earn 1 success; nickels are from skills and earn
2 successes; a dime comes from the Echo and earns 3 successes;
a quarter comes from the Burden and earns 4 successes. The player
can lose coins that are bet, but keeps successes. Further, a player
can ask for coins from other players that are also risked.
Knights and Magic
Arnold Hendrick
1980
Heritage Models
A medieval fantasy miniatures system, which included some
role-playing rules and notes on use with other RPGs.
Knights of the Round Table
Phil Edgren
1976
Little Soldier Games
64
A miniature system and RPG set in Arthurian Camelot. Each figure has
a single stat, Prowess, which starts at 1d10 but can be raised to 100.
It could be improved with experience. The rules suggested 1-7 points
per adventure, although it could be reduced through unchivalrous
behavior and temporarily lowered by wounds. The game had three
related combat systems: jousting, hand-to-hand, and melee. Combat
resolution worked by both players secretly selecting one of 10
maneuver cards. Comparing cards gave a target number to hit on 1d100,
where the figure with higher Prowess adds the difference to his roll.
Damage is based on the action and the difference between the roll and
target. The game also included a description of the code of chivalry,
some encounter tables, and rules for falling in love. The campaign
section suggested that PCs could found baronies, learn magic or
develop spiritual power, although very few details were provided.
Know Your Role! - World Wrestling Entertainment Roleplaying Game
Tony Lee
Cynthia Celeste Miller
Eddy Webb
Christopher McGlothin
Marcelo Figueroa
2005
Comic Images, Inc.
A professional wrestling RPG using a variant of the D20 System of third edition
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a> and
<a href="GAME#d20modern">D20 Modern</a>. It has six
classes, one for each primary ability: Aerial Superstar (Dexterity),
Power Superstar (Strength), Rough Superstar (Constitution),
Savvy Superstar (Charisma), Technical Superstar (Intelligence), and
Manager (Wisdom). Each has appropriate talent trees as in D20 Modern.
Combat is handled by separate damage to Endurance (which increases
with level) and Trauma (equal to Constitution). The game includes a
system for developing unique maneuvers, and character limits on maneuvers.
Kobolds Ate My Baby!
Christopher O'Neill
Daniel Landis
1998
9th Level Games
A humorous beer-and-pretzels RPG about playing kobolds sent on a
mission to steal as many babies they can from the humans. It
uses a very simple skill-based system including a Kobold Gruesome
Death Chart and a magic system with 12 spells. There are several
supplements for this game, including "More Things to Eat and Kill!".
Kouzlem a mečem
Jiří Reiter
2010
MYTAGO
A Czech-language old-school fantasy game focused on compact rules
that cover fighting goblins, skeletons, and other monsters in
underground labyrinths.
Kryształy Czasu
Artur Szyndler
1999
Wydawnictwo MAG
A Polish-language fantasy RPG set in an original world called Orchia.
The title translates as "Jewels of Time". It uses a complex rules
system, particularly in character generation. Before the book
edition, it was published in parts in "Magia i Miecz"
("Sword and Sorcery") magazine, being really the first set of
true role-playing rules published in Polish.
Kult
1st [Swedish]
Gunilla Jonsson
Michael Petersen
1991
Target Games AB
1st [English]
1993
Metropolis, Ltd
2nd
1997
3rd
Nils Gullikson
Stefan Ljungqvist
Terry K. Amthor
2004
A surreal modern-day horror RPG, where the horrific underlying
reality is a gnostic fable.
Kuninkaiden Aika
Piia Makkonen
Pasi Silander
1993
Lastenkeskus Publishing
A Finnish-language Biblical RPG, whose title translates as
"Time of the Kings". It is published by a Lutheran church for
the purposes of fun and entertainment regarding how the world was
during the time of the kings (Saul, David, Solomon). It uses
a rules-lite system, with no stats were for weapons.
Kuro
Willy Favre
Jérôme Larré
Neko
Christophe Valla
Julien Heylbroeck
2007
7ème Cercle
158
A post-apocalyptic science fantasy RPG set in Japan in the year 2046,
after a mysterious event (the "Kuro Incident") has cut Japan off from
the rest of the world and re-awakened elements from Japanese mythology.
It uses an original system.
Laberinto
Irma Amézquita
Tonatiuh Moreno
1999
Editorial Gráfica Nuevo
Laberinto is a sci-fi anime/manga RPG, the first Mexican RPG.
The tagline for the book translates to: "A new and original game
to live adventures in a magic and dangerous world. Is fantasy and
science fiction. (A) Roleplaying game located within an anime-manga
world. Into dungeons or in cities, with robots and dragons...
martial artists, ninjas, psychics, monks, magic girls, knights,
thieves and aliens live fantastic adventures. You are the hero.
Walk the mind labyrinths."
Laborinthus
Patrick Savary
Laurent Gabella
1988
Éditions ECG
A French-language fantasy RPG -- the first Swiss RPG. It
features onirism, symbols, and psycho-analysis. The book is
illustrated with original engravings and eau-fortes, and
extremely expensive.
Labyrinth Lord
Daniel Proctor
2007
Goblinoid Games
138
A variant of the original
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a> game,
mimicking the original basic game circa 1980 based on the third
edition rules released under the Open Gaming License.
Labyrinths & Lycanthropes
Joe J. Prince
2009
Prince of Darkness Games
86
A tongue-in-cheek dungeon crawl RPG, featuring random labyrinth generation
and a rotating GM. The emphasis is on comedy and fast play, with
streamlined combat and magic with no spell lists. Character creation
is class-based, with the three classes being Fighter, Ninja, and Mage.
Lace and Steel
Paul Kidd
1989
TAGG
2nd
1998
Plainlabel / Pharos
A swashbuckling fantasy RPG set in an alternate world parallel to
our 1640's, populated with humans and civilized centaurs. It
uses a skill-based system which uses cards in addition to dice.
Tarot cards modify character creation (which is mixed random-roll
attributes and point-bought skills), and special cards are used
in combat.
Lacuna Part I: The Creation of the Mystery and the Girl from Blue City
Jared A. Sorensen
2004
Memento Mori Theatricks
40
An experimental roleplaying game set in modern-day psychic world of black-suited Mystery Agents and shadowy spidermen. The PCs are "Mystery Agents" in the modern day, who go into a dream-state where they can explore a collective unconscious. This go to a place called the Blue City. Characters have four abstract attributes: Force, Access, Instinct, and Talent. These are rated in a five-step scale: 2d6, lowest 3 of 4d6, 3d6, highest 3 of 4d6, 4d6. There is a reward (Challenge Points) equal to difficulty for a successful roll that can be used to increase attributes. Since all action is psychic, there is no damage but PCs heart rates will rise with every roll. Character generation has random-roll age and mentor, freeform strength/weakness keywords, and optional picking a proficient/deficient attribute.
Lamentations of the Flame Princess: Weird Fantasy Role-Playing
Deluxe
James Edward Raggi IV
2010
self-published
Grindhouse
James Edward Raggi IV
2011
self-published
A variant of the original
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a> game,
part of the "Old School Renaissance", that mimics the original basic
game with a focus on emulating weird pulp fantasy. It has a simple
skill system along with classes of wizard, cleric, fighter, specialist,
elf, dwarf, and halfling.
Land of the Rising Sun
Lee Gold
1980
FGU
A fantasy RPG set in medieval Japan, using a variant of the
original <a href="GAME#chivalryandsorcery">Chivalry and Sorcery</a>
system.
Lands of Adventure
Lee Gold
1983
FGU
A generic fantasy RPG, with "culture packs" for specific
settings. A short booklet covering mythic Greece and medieval
England was included with the game. The system is percentile
skill-based, with complex sub-systems for combat, encumbrance,
movement, etc. Characters track Energy Points (EP, lost by
fatigue), Body Points (BP, lost by wounds), and Life Points (lost
by bleeding).
Laserburn
Bryan Ansell
Richard Halliwell
Tony Ackland
1980
Tabletop Games
A sci-fi miniatures combat system: not really an RPG, but an
ancestor of <u>Warhammer 40K</u> by the same authors. It
features power armour, dreadnought armour, hand flamers, needle
weapons, "sunguns", conversion beam projectors, bolt rifles and
so forth.
The Last Exodus
Nicholas Van Zandt
Jaz Michele
2001
Synister Creative
A modern-day magical/religious apocalypse RPG. It is set shortly after
the millenium, where the PC's are all "Scions" -- powerful miracle-
performer who act as either Messiahs or Antichrists. The rules system
uses a standard playing deck and difficulty numbers for action
resolution. Character creation is limited point based, with players
spending points on four qualities: Mental, Physical, Cultural, and
Spiritual, along with various other choices.
Last Train Out of Warsaw
Jason Morningstar
2009
self-published
A roleplaying/storytelling game based on a historical fiction scenario.
It is designed for a single, short session with 2-8 players - with
included rules based on the free rule system Archipelago II, by
Matthijs Holter. There is a Guide with no main character and a
pre-determined sequence of ten scenes. In each scene, players take
turns narrating what happens. The current narrator may use mechanics
to draw from three sets of custom cards: Fate cards, Setting Element
cards, and Resolution cards. The scenario is Warsaw in 1939 on the
eve of the German encirclement- with players taking the roles of people
on the very last train out of the city: the Conductor, the Quiet Man,
the Engineer, the Fireman, the Adjutant, the Countess, the Old Man,
and the Pretty Girl.
The Laundry
Jason Durall
Gareth Hanrahan
John Snead
2010
Cubicle 7 Entertainment Limited
Alephtar Games
A modern-day horror RPG based on the "Laundry Files" series of novels
by Charles Stross. Players take on the roles of British intelligence
agents tasked with fighting from supernatural horrors. It uses a variant
of the <a href="GAME#callofcthulhu">Call of Cthulhu</a>
system.
Lawnmower Man
Barry Nakazano
David McKenzie
1993
Leading Edge
A cyberpunk RPG based on the 1992 movie about a treatment of drugs
and virtual reality which unlocks genius intelligence and psychic
powers in a retarded man, loosely based on a novel by Stephen
King. The system has an extremely simplified version of the combat
rules in <a href="GAME#phoenixcommand">Phoenix Command</a>,
which is still quite complex. It includes cybernetic enhancement
rules.
LEF: DE SAMLEDE VÆRKER
1st
Jacob Octavius Jarlskov
1991
Caligula Forlag
2nd
1999
3rd
2003
A Danish-language fantasy game, whose title translates as
"LEF: The Collected Works". "LEF" is an acronym for "Levende Eventyr
og Fantasi" -- meaning "Living Adventure and Fantasy". It is set in
the world of Valhel, a medieval fantasy world with humans along with
elves, dwarfs and trolls. It uses a d6-based rules system, where
action resolution is skill plus 2d6 vs difficulty (with some
complications for combat). Character creation is point-based:
pick one of two broad classes ("learned" and "practical"), and
then spend starting experience points on attributes and skills.
Attributes range from 1 to 3 dice, with 1 being the default (except
for magic which starts at 0). Skills range from 1 to 6. The cost
varies depending on skill and class, and starting rank is randomly
determined as a 1d6 roll. There is a magic system with five types
of magic, each of which work differently. The core rulebook is a
oversize black hardback (30 by 19 by 3 cm), with a bookmark ribbon
sewn in, and embossed logo of a crowned horse on the spine and back.
There is a picture at the
<a href="http://alexandria.dk/data?system=80">
Danish Alexandria site</a>. The original system concept was
from 1981 -- with first publication in 1991, second in 1999, third
in 2003.
Legacy: War of Ages
Brandon Blackmoor
Susan Blackmoor
1993
Black Gate Publishing
A modern-day occult RPG in the "Techno-Gothic" genre, about
secret immortal beings the 21st century (in the style of the
movie <u>Highlander</u>).
Legacy
J.D. Frazer
1992
Discordian Games
A "hard science" sci-fi RPG.
Legacy
David A. Feldt
1978
Legacy Press
A universal RPG system, which uses a complex skill system
where the GM creates statistics for the civilization.
The Legacy of Zorro
Mark Arsenault
2001
Gold Rush Games
A swashbuckling action game based on the popular series of books
and film. This uses the "Instant Fuzion" game system, and is
intended for beginning players. It includes four pre-made characters,
an introductory adventure, and cut-out cardstock figures.
Legend
Lawrence Whitaker
Pete Nash
2011
Mongoose Publishing
250
A generic fantasy RPG based on Mongoose's version of the
<a href="GAME#runequest">RuneQuest</a> rules.
Legend
Jacob Kurzer
Chris Campbell
2011
Rule of Cool Gaming
179
A generic fantasy RPG using a streamlined variant of the
D20 System from 3.5th edition
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a>.
The core classes are Barbarian, Monk, Paladin, Ranger, Rogue,
Sage, Shaman, and Tactician. It uses standard attributes and
resolution using a D20, but gives each class three distinct tracks
of special abilities - with one gained each level. Skills are binary,
with any trained skill getting a bonus equal to level.
Legendary Lives
Kathleen Williams
Joe Williams
1990
Sage Lore Productions, Inc.
2nd
1993
Marquee Press
A fantasy-genre RPG, set in a light-hearted Celtic-flavored world
thick with faeries. The system uses a universal Action
Resolution 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.
Légendes
Stéphane Daudier
Marc Deladerrière
Philippe Mercier
Jean Marc Montel
Guillaume Rohmer
1983
Jeux Descartes
Légendes des 1001 Nuits
Jean Marc Montel
1984
Légendes Celtiques
Philippe Mercier
Stéphane Daudier
Guillaume Rohmer
Jean Marc Montel
Marc Deladerrière
1985
Premières Légendes
unknown
1986
De La Table Ronde
Anne Vetillard
1986
Vallée des Rois
Christian Caroli
1987
Des Cités
Didier Franque
1993
Antre du Dragon
A French-language historical fantasy RPG system, released as
several games focusing on different time periods. "LÉgendes
Celtique" was also released in English as "Celtic Legends".
The original game has complex rules and focuses on very
detailed historical/legendary background. "1001 Nights" also
uses these rules. A simplified version of the rules
("Premières Légendes") was later released, which
the later supplements use. The simplified version has 3 basic attributes,
each of which has 3 sub-attributes. There are 8 Gifts, each of which
govern a set of skills. Action resolution uses a d20. The official
settings included "LÉgendes Celtique" (pre-Roman Celtic
civilization); "LÉgendes de la Table Ronde" (Arthurian
Britain); "LÉgendes Mille et Une Nuits" (based on 1001
Arabian Nights); and "LÉgendes de la Vallée des Rois"
(ancient Egypt). There was also a third-party supplement for ancient
Greece, "Légendes des Cités".
Légendes des Contrées Oubliées
G.E. Ranne
Stephane Bura
1995
Delcourt
A French-language heroic fantasy RPG, adapted from a serie of
French comic books of the same name.
Legendmaker
Howard I. Scott III
1998
Chaos Enterprises, Inc.
A traditional fantasy-genre RPG. It uses a percentile skill based
system, also using Xd10 for damage and other rolls. Character
creation is by random-roll attributes, and choice of race and
class. Class (Fighter/ Thief/ Cleric/ Mage) determines your
central skill -- increase in that skill brings you up a level
which improves saving throws and hit points.
Legend of the Ages
William WR Ozier
2010
self-published
A generic fantasy system, which includes rules on creating cultures and civilizations, original monsters, and major houses and guilds, as well as magical items and spells.
Legend of the Burning Sands
Jed Carlton
Shawn Carman
Dan Comrie
Douglas Sun
Lucas Twyman
Brian Yoon
2008
Alderac Entertainment Group
A stand-alone variant of the
<a href="GAME#legendofthefiverings">Legend of the Five Rings</a>
game, set in an alternate desert region of that world.
It details major factions such as the warlike Yodotai, the mystical
Ashalan, and the scholarly Qabal. It includes a new magic system
with dueling rules (ta-haddi) as well as rules for summoning and
creating jinn.
Legend of the Five Rings
John Wick
D. Williams
1997
Alderac Entertainment Group
2nd
Ree Soesbee
2000
Alderac Entertainment Group
Wizards of the Coast
3rd
Rich Wulf
Shawn Carman
Brian Yoon
Seth Mason
Fred Wan
2005
Alderac Entertainment Group
4th
Shawn Carman
Robert Hobart
Jim Pinto
2010
Alderac Entertainment Group
A medieval fantasy-genre RPG, set in the world of Rokugan where
clans struggle for dominance. The names, appearance, and other
features are Japanese-based, but there are also European
influences. The "five rings" are the elements of Air, Earth,
Fire, Water, and Void which group the basic attributes. It uses
a dice pool system where you roll a number of d10s equal to
attribute + skill, keep a number equal to attribute, and sum them.
This is modified: rolls of ten add an extra roll, and in contests
you throw out dice less than the opposing attribute. Character
creation is skill-based, with a choice of 7 clans and 2 professions:
bushi (warrior) or shugenja (mage).
The Legend of Yore
Brennan Taylor
1997
Galileo Games
A fantasy-genre RPG, which allows PC's of giants, goblins, and
trolls as well as elves, dwarves, and humans. It uses a simple
skill-based percentile system: roll under (skill * 5) +
attribute. Character creation has random-roll of race and
attributes, followed by selecting a career (1 of 30) and picking
skills from that career's list.
Legend Quest
John Josten
1991
Board Enterprises
2nd
1994
A generic fantasy genre RPG system, including rules for magic and
"mentalism", but no background material. It uses a simple
skill-based percentile system (roll under attribute*10 +
Skill*5) for all tasks. Character creation, however, is
point-bought and time-consuming.
Legends of Anglerre
Sarah Newton
Chris Birch
Marc Reyes
Tom Miskey
Mike Olson
2010
Cubicle 7 Entertainment Limited
384
An RPG based on a fantasy series of British comic books that appeared
in the Starblazer Adventures series. It includes two settings:
Anglerre and the Hither Kingdoms. Anglerre is a swords-and-sorcery
setting, where the kingdom of Anglerre are stoic, salt-of-the-earth
people at war with the neighboring kingdom of wizards, Suvethia.
In the Hither Kingdoms, an alliance of men, elves and dwarves fell a
thousand years ago, and only the city of Selantium now holds out
against the forces of darkness. The game uses a variant of the
FATE system (version 3.0) from
<a href="GAME#spiritofthecentury">Spirit of the Century</a>,
similar to the variant in
<a href="GAME#starblazeradventures">Starblazer Adventures</a>.
Character creation is limited point-based.
Legends of Kralis
Levi Davis
2005
Fantasy Makers Industries, LLC
358
A fantasy genre game with some science fiction elements, set on an
original world ("Kralis"). There are fifteen races: Acires, Aelwyn,
Ba-liyan, Centaur, Dwarves, Elves, Firbogs, Gnomes, Humans, Jakara,
Kanus, Manax, Minotaurs, Sprites, and Trolls. The world is late
Renaissance with the addition of magical war machines, airships, and
related elements. It uses a percentile skill-based system (the
"Talarius Gaming System"). Action resolution is roll under skill
on d100 where successes (skill - roll / 10) must be greater than
Target Successes. Character creation is limited point-based.
Distribute 200 points plus racial modifiers among eight attributes:
four Physical (Strength, Stamina, Agility and Perception) and four
Mental (Intelligence, Wits, Willpower and Charisma).
Legends Walk!
Tim Gray
2002
Silver Branch Games
An electronically-published superhero RPG set in a near-future world
in the year 2020 where certain people have become empowered by
creatures of popular myth. Each hero represents a single being
from legend: a God like Thor or Athena; an Angel like Michael or
Gabriel; a Hero like Hercules; or a Monster like Fenrir or a Spriggan.
The setting is described, but the true reasons behind the event are
left up to the group. It uses a dice-pool system, rolling a number
of d6's based on skill + modifiers, where any result of 4-6 indicates
a success. Character creation is limited-point based (spending
points on Attributes, Skills, and Advantages) plus a selection
of template, i.e. a pre-define mythic source which provides your
powers. The core rulebook includes Greek, Norse, Celtic, and
Angelic sources, plus there is a supplement for Aztec, Maya,
Sumerian and Babylonian sources.
Legione
Danilo Moretti
1994
Beholder
An Italian-language superhero RPG.
Legio VII
Marco Donadoni
1980
International Team
An Italian-language sci-fi boardgame, only marginally an RPG.
It is set in a vast galactic empire along Roman lines, where
players go exploring the galaxy. The title is Latin for "7th Legion".
It is a strictly table-driven game, where the GM only rolls dice
and reads results on tables.
Lejendary Adventures
Gary Gygax
1999
Hekaforge
A fantasy RPG, packaged in several volumes ("Lejendary Rules",
"Lejend Master's Lore", and "Lejendary Earth"). It uses a
fairly rules-lite percentile skill-based system. Character
creation is point-bought attributes. Skills are picked and then
ranked in order of importance -- the picks add to attributes, and
then attributes and rank determine individual skill values.
There are class-like packages ("Orders") which enhance your picks
if you qualify.
Leluelo
Risto J. Hieta
Hans Zenjuga
2000
Artic Ranger Production
A small-press Finnish-language RPG in which the PC's are live toys
(as in the Disney film "Toy Story"). It uses a fast d6-based system,
and allows you play with real toys (cars, trains, dolls, soldiers..)
as props.
Lemuria
Anders Blixt
Krister Sundelin
2004
Rävspel
A Swedish-language action-oriented "dieselpunk" game, set on the lost
continent of Lemuria in the 1930s. This is a sourcebook for use with the
<a href="GAME#d20modern">D20 Modern</a> system, and is
the first D20 game made in Swedish.
Leverage: The Role Playing Game
Cam Banks
Rob Donoghue
Matt Forbeck
Laura Anne Gilman
Ryan Macklin
Clark Valentine
2010
Margaret Weis Productions
A modern-day espionage game based on the television series from the
TNT network, where the player characters are a specialized group of
con artists, criminals, and crooks who are trying to redeem themselves
by using their skills to protect the victims of corporations, mobsters,
and corrupt politicians. This uses a version of the
<a href="GAME#cortex">Cortex System</a> mechanics.
Lex Arcana
Leo Colovini
Dario De Toffoli
Marco Maggi
Francesco Nepitello
1993
Dal Negro
"Essential Rules"
1998
Nexus Editrice
An Italian-language alternate-history RPG with magic, set in
an alternate history 476 A.D. where the Western Roman Empire survived
rather than fell. Players take the role of Custodes, members of the
Cohors Auxiliaria Arcana, a special branch of the Praetorian Guard
devoted to search deep into the mysteries of the known world.
In the late 90's, Nexus Editrice bought the game from Dal Negro and
distributed the remaining copies. They also published a new geographical
supplement called "Italia", by Andrea Angiolino and Francesca Garello.
However, the "Essential Rules" edition is really an 8-page introduction
to the original game, published in #54 of the magazine "Kaos".
Liquid Crystal
Ashok Desai
2006
Sane Studios
29
A post-apocalyptic mini-RPG set a hundred years after robot wars wiped
the Earth clean. The survivors live with little technology in the
city of New Olympus. The player characters are robots whose minds
have been wiped clean, in the hope that they can help the struggling
city - despite their violent history.
Little Fears
Jason L. Blair
Greg Oliver
2001
Key 20 Publishing
Nightmare
Jason L. Blair
2009
FunSizedGames
An RPG of childhood terror, set in a world of bullies, curfews, tattle-tales,
werewolves, vampires, and things much worse. The PC's are children
below the age of 13, who have the gift of Innocence which monsters
hunger for. Upon passing 13, they lose their Innocence and are safe
from the monsters -- but they become blind to the terrors of their
youth. The "Nightmare Edition" features a complete new system, the
"Top 3" System.
Live System: Modernised OGL System
James Desborough
2004
Postmortem Studios
124
An electronically-published universal RPG system, intended to be
a more free-flowing variant of the D20 System of third edition
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a> and
<a href="GAME#d20modern">D20 Modern</a>. Character
creation replaces classes with packages of skills and feats.
Living Legends
Jeff Dee
Jack Herman
1999
Unigames
A superhero RPG, a 3rd edition / revision of the classic
<a href="GAME#villiansandvigilantes">Villians and Vigilantes</a>.
Living Steel
Barry Nakazono
David McKenzie
1987
Leading Edge
2nd
1988
A sci-fi post-apocalyptic RPG, set on an alien world called Rhand
in 2349. Alien "Spectrals" assaulted the corrupt human Imperium,
and invaded the isolated tourist world of Rhand. The invasion
craft was destroyed, but chaos reigns after the devastation. The
PC's are human champions equipped with power armor called "Living
Steel", dedicated to restoring civilization. The game focuses
on realistic powered-armor combat, using a version of the system
from <a href="GAME#phoenixcommand">Phoenix Command</a>.
The second edition featured a simplified version of the rules,
which is still quite complex.
LodlanD: Ein Rollenspiel in den Tiefen des Meeres
André Wiesler
2003
Image 3033
228
A German-language post-apocalyptic RPG, set in a future where the
Earth's surface has become uninhabitable and humanity survives in
domed cities beneath the oceans, complete with farms of genetically
engineered algae. See www.lodland.de for more information.
Lone Wolf the Roleplaying Game
August Hahn
2004
Mongoose Publishing
304
A fantasy genre RPG, based on the Lone Wolf series of gamebooks
and novels. The original gamebooks were co-authored by Paul Barnett
(aka John Grant) and Joe Dever. The game is set in the kingdom of
Sommerlund, grandest nation on the world of Magnamund. There, Kai
monks with mystical powers defend the land against the Darklords of
the west. The RPG is officially set some 50 years before the plot
of the gamebooks (wherein all but one the Kai monks are killed in
a war with the Darklords). It is a standalone RPG, while the rules
are a variant of the D20 System from 3rd edition
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a>.
Combat has been made faster by the elimination of Attacks of
Opportunity and Feats, and there is special magic appropriate to
the setting.
Long Live the King
Mark Rein•Hagen
Stewart Wieck
Dale Cook
John Dashler
2006
White Wolf
A strategic live-action role-playing game for five or more players,
which uses cards and three sets of points (Gold, Status, and Favor).
It is set in a generic historical kingdom where the prince is dead,
and a new heir must be chosen by the ailing king. There are eight
named characters: the King, Queen, Royal Bastard, Archbishop, Steward,
Ambassador, Baron, and Treasurer. Each has a card with stats provided
for it. The game is played with formal rounds for diplomacy and
council.
Lord of the Rings Roleplaying Game
Steven S. Long
Christian Moore
John Rateliff
Matt Forbeck
2002
Decipher
304
A fantasy RPG based on the novels by J.R.R. Tolkien. It uses a
version of the "CODA" system (also used by Decipher's
<a href="GAME#startrek_decipher">Star Trek</a> RPG).
Action resolution is by attribute + skill + 2d6 versus difficulty.
Character creation uses random-roll attributes (with a point-bought
option), and chosen skills -- taking 'picks' of skills from racial
background and selecting an 'order' (i.e. warrior, wizard, rogue).
There are also Edges and Flaws (advantages/disadvantages).
Lords of Creation
Tom Moldvay
1984
Avalon Hill
A dimension-hopping game about characters rising to become
masters of their own dimension.
Lords of Olympus
The RPG Pundit
2012
Precis Intermedia Games
234
A diceless RPG using a variant of the system from
<a href="GAME#amber">Amber Diceless Role-playing</a>,
and set in a version of the world of Greek myth. The player characters
are children of Olympian Gods, Titans, or Primordials - travelling
between dimensions such as Olympus, Atlantis, and Hades. The core
book includes many detailed listings of the divine family including
many obscure deities and beings. Resolution uses a similar system
of GM adjudication with four attributes (Ego, Might, Prowess, and
Fortitude), but the resolution rules are written independently.
Lore: Origins
Troye W. Gerard
Bryan P. Donihue
Jeremy L. Huffman
Daniel E. Beatty
2001
Lore Roleplaying
A small press fantasy-genre RPG with the usual elements of
elves, dwarves, orcs, and dragons. It is not yet released.
Lost Roads of Lociam
Rasmus Strand
1991
self-published
A fantasy RPG, set on the world of Lociam - populated by elves,
dwarves, giants, and animal-peoples (the First People) as well as
humans (the Second People). Both are locked in struggle with creatures
of Chaos (the Third People). The rules are based on percentile skills
for most activities, and binary skills for knowledges. There are
eight attributes, including four physical (Strength, Dexterity, Speed,
Constitution) and four mental (Wisdom, Perception, Charisma, Mana).
Experience is gained on individual skills based on use.
A self-publishing site is available at
<a href="http://lociam.com/">lociam.com</a>.
Lost Souls
Kathleen Williams
Joe Williams
1991
Sage Lore Productions, Inc.
2nd
1992
Sage Lore Productions, Inc.
Marquee Press
A supernatural RPG of playing ghosts trying to reincarnate,
fighting evil ghosts and other creatures to improve their karma.
It uses a variant of the system from <a href="GAME#legendarylives">
Legendary Lives</a>. 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.
'The Lost World: Jurassic Park' Role-Playing Game Book
Greg Farshtey
1997
Putnam Publishing Group
This is a card-based RPG for young children (ages 7 and up).
The book contains three interactive adventures, which use 24 punch-out
cards. Some cards portray characters from the film, while others
contain facts about dinosaurs or the Jurassic era. Each character
has four attributes (agility, strength, perception, and mind) which
are used with a d6 roll to determine action resolution.
Love in the Time of Seið
Jason Morningstar
Matthijs Holter
2010
self-published
A low-prep, quick-playing story game that includes five pre-generated characters along with locations and events. It is set in a Norse-themed fantasy kingdom on the brink of ruin. The old King has no male heir, and he seeks to marry his daughter to the Earl of Gardarike - a rival kingdom to the East. It uses a version of the free rules system Archipelago II.
Luftwaffe 1946 Role Playing Game
Jonathan M. Thompson
2003
Battlefield Press
An RPG set in alternate-history Europe of 1946, based on
Ted Nomura's comic book series of the same name. It uses a
variant of the <a href="GAME#action">Action! System</a>.
La Lutte des Gemmes
unknown
1995
Presses du Midi
A French-language medieval fantasy RPG.
Jack Vance's Lyonesse
Philippe Genequand
Raphael Kissling
Boris Leu
Didier Salzmann
1999
Men-in-Cheese
A French-language fantasy RPG based on the trilogy of novels by Jack
Vance. It is set in the kingdom of Lyonesse, within an imaginary
archipelago ("Isles Anciennes") between Spain, France and Ireland.
The background has a strong Celtic flavor mixed with historical
medieval background.
Machineguns and Magic
William L. McCord, Jr.
1992
M.G. Games
2nd
1994
A fantasy RPG about modern-day soldiers stranded in a medieval
fantasy world by some spacewarp. It includes an original magic
system with 30 spells, where spellcasters can cast as many spells
as they like until they fail a roll. The 1st edition has a paper
cover, while the 2nd edition has the usual softcover and better art.
Macho Women With Guns
1st
Greg Porter
1988
self-published
3rd
1994
BTRC
4th
James Desborough
2003
Mongoose Publishing
A hilarious parody RPG which features the battle of "macho women with
guns" against over-the-top post-apocalyptic strangeness. The background
is that in the nineties, the world began to collapse due to "male
chauvinist leadership". The fabric of society collapsed, the states
and nations crumbled, and Hell itself vomited forth a plague of lawyers
and tax collectors to ravage the land. The 3rd edition incorporates two
sequels to the original: "Renegade Nuns on Wheels", and "Bat-Winged
Bimbos from Hell". It uses a simple system of roll under skill on 3d6,
with a hex-based combat system. It has point-based character creation,
including ads/disads like "Look good in armor" and "Top-Heavy".
The 4th edition was completely rewritten by a different author, and
uses the D20 System from 3rd edition
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a>.
Mächte, Mythen, Moddermonster
unknown
1989
Edition Einhorn
A small-press German-language fantasy RPG, similar to
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a>.
It includes a range of classes including slave, prostitute,
and combat mage -- plus races such as half-trolls.
Mach: The First Colony
Michael Lange
1983
Alliance Publications Ltd.
A science fantasy RPG, in a universe where humankind in the
1980's is "rescued" from a pending supernova and deposited on an
alien planet, which they share with 3 other refugee races. They
are then left to fend for themselves with weapons smuggled in.
The game takes place after 200 years of war and technical
atrophy. PC's can be of one of the refugee races, native Machs
or a very non-humanoid alien race who made it to Mach on their
own with unknown intent. It uses a skill-based system, with
attributes and races similar to
<a href="GAME#advanceddungeonsanddragons">AD&D</a>.
Experience is based on adventuring, practice, or study.
Reviewed in "The Space Gamer" #69.
Maelstrom: The Turbulent Role-playing Game of Thieves, Rogues, Magick, and Mayhem
Alexander Scott
1984
Puffin Books
2nd
2008
Arion Games
A historical RPG about life in 16th century England, in
pocket book format (in a line of "Adventure Books",
ISBN 0-14-031811-9). The system uses percentile rolls as well as d6's.
It has limited point-bought character creation, with packages for
chosen profession. The 10 attributes each has a base of 30, you
could distribute 50 points among them plus bonuses from your
profession package. Witchcraft was handled as semi-freeform
Willpower roll vs difficulty, with an extensive chapter on herbs.
The second edition was published electronically via
<a href="http://www.rpgnow.com/product_info.php?products_id=54233">
RPGNow</a>.
Maelstrom Storytelling
Christian Aldridge
Seth Lindberg
1998
Hubris
A fantasy RPG of pseudo-science, Leonardan magic and gunpowder
set in a different reality which constantly shifts as a magical
storm passes over it. The system ("<a href="GAME#storyengine">
Story Engine</a>") is a cinematic dice pool system which has no
numerical stats. Instead, the size of the pool depends on the
number of textual "descriptors" (like "strong") the character has
that apply. Success is determined by the number of odd numbers
rolls ("Odds") vs the difficulty.
Mage: The Ascension
Stewart Wieck
1993
White Wolf
2nd
1995
A modern-day game of secret magic, where magicians from nine rebellious
traditions struggle against the Technocracy -- a group of magicians who
are trying to control all magic within reality, enforcing the limits
of mundane science for everyone except themselves. It uses a variant
of the "Storyteller" system originally used in
<a href="GAME#vampirethemasquerade">Vampire: The Masquerade</a>.
It has a magic system with effects in several broad spheres, where due
to the Technocracy, magic is made more dangerous if the effects visibly
break physical laws -- but are allowed if there is a plausible mundane
explanation.
Mage: The Sorcerers Crusade
Phil Brucato
1998
White Wolf
A companion RPG to <a href="GAME#magetheascension">Mage: The Ascension</a>
set in 1430 to 1550, prior to the founding of the Technocracy. The
rules are similar, but the magic system is significantly altered
to reflect the different mystic laws (i.e. "Paradox" is changed).
In this time period, the "Daedalans" (predecessors of the
Technocracy) are innovators who seek to change the old ways, with
strong religious beliefs.
Magic Frontiers Explorer Edition
Wyant
1999
Event Horizon Productions
330
A science fantasy genre RPG with no setting per se but provides support
for both magic and advanced technology side-by-side. Character
creation uses random-roll attributes, but assumes each character
is from a unique race. Race is created by a number of selections
of abilities and templates. Skills are based on character class.
There are also rules for magic in three varieties (Arcana, Elementa,
and Mindra) as well as robots and cyborgs and special powers.
Magikon
Marco Donadoni
unknown
International Team
An Italian-language fantasy boardgame / RPG, using a very simple
system for limited dungeon-delving.
MAGIUS
unknown
unknown
Suzaku Games
A Japanese-language universal RPG system.
It's vaguely similar to Big Eyes, Small Mouth, actually,
except the 3 attributes are Body, Mental and Technique.
There are about 8 skills that are written on the included
character sheet, and they include winners like "Booze",
"Cooking", and "Love-Related".
M.A.G.U.S.
Csanád Novák
Zsolt Nyulászi
1993
Valhalla Páholy LLC
2nd "SUMMARIUM"
1996
3rd "Első Törvénykönyv"
1997
4th "új Tekercsek"
1999
5th "M.a.g.u.s. d20"
2004
INOMI Publishing
6th "új Törvénykönyv"
2007
"Mazsola" Húsáru és Delikát Trade LLC
Tuan Publishing
A popular Hungarian-language fantasy RPG, based on a series of popular
fantasy novels by various authors. It is set on the world of Ynev,
that closely resembles Renaissance Europe, full of political intrigue.
The PCs are adventurers, often dragged into political schemes by corrupt
local officials by money, blackmail, or other means -- influenced by
cyberpunk genre tropes as much as traditional fantasy. The world is
dominated by humans, but is also inhabited by "aquirs" -- a powerful,
dying race of demon-like entities. The 1st and 2nd edition use a system
similar to <a href="GAME#advanceddungeonsanddragons">
AD&D</a>, including ability cores, races, and classes.
Distinctive elements include new classes such as knights, headhunters,
martial artists, and gladiators. There are six different magic systems,
including the black magic of warlocks, the seduction of witches, and
the "mosaic-magic" of wizards who assemble their spells from smaller
components. There are also three schools of psionics available
to all classes. The original system includes two-level skills
(basic and master levels), but there is no general resolution
system for these. The combat system uses percentile rolls, and
includes critical hits and armor that reduces damage. The 2nd and
3rd editions add various options. The 4th edition provides complicated
point-buy character generation options and a detailed five-stage
skill system, but still no general task resolution. The 5th edition
is based on the D20 System from 3rd edition
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a>.
Characters start out in a base class (warrior, rogue, novice and
aristocrat) and enter regular "adventurer" classes on 4th level.
The 6th edition reverted to the original percentile system.
Characters creation uses skill and background options in a
point buy system, but the traditional classes are also present
in the form of premade packages.
Maid RPG
Ryo Kamiya
2004
Sunset Games
"which you love"
2005
Sunset Games
1st English
Ryo Kamiya
Ewen Cluney
2008
Kuroneko Designs
A humorous Japanese-language RPG about women cleaning the house of a
master where wacky events occur. There is no physical combat system,
but there is a conflict system where the loser accumulates Stress
points. When a maid has greater Stress than her Spirit rating, she
has a Stress Explosion. Maids also gain points of Favor from the
master, which can be used to boost rolls, reduce Stress, to raise
attributes, or invoke random events. There are three charts of random
events for Outer Space, Modern, and Fantasy -- including many
game-changing events. There are two supplements: Koi Suru Maid RPG
and Yume Miru Maid RPG.
Koi Soru Maid RPG has an introduction and errata, rules for
playing a head maid or butler, rules for generating a master,
tables for designing a mansion, rules for "romance and enticement,"
comforting (to reduce someone else's Stress), costume changes
(a table of 36 alternate costumes, each with a Favor cost and
special rules), items (in a D666 table of 216 of them!), and
a total of 13 different random event tables.
Yume Miru Maid RPG is mostly a scenario collection, but it also has
rules for complexes and apprentices, tables for two new settings (Old
West and Old Edo), a second table of costume changes (including
plugsuits, Gundam uniforms, and hero suits), and a weather table.
Les Maîtres-Mondes
Ivan Strobino
1992
L'Arkalance
A French-language generic fantasy RPG system, intended for a
variety of fantasy worlds.
Maléfices
Michel Gaudo
Guillaume Rohmer
1985
Jeux Descartes
A French-language Victorian horror RPG, set around 1880-1920
with various witch doctors and occult sorcerers in the
background. One of the 5 top-selling RPGs in France at one
time.
Manga World
Koneko
unknown
self-published
A French-language generic manga RPG (Japanese comic-book), aimed
at allowing easy adaptations of Manga settings.
Manhunter
Ramon P. Moore
1987
Kingslayer Publications
2nd
1993
Myrmidon
A sci-fi adventure RPG in a multi-species interstellar federation
(the Aglio-Terran Planetary Defense System). It uses a complex
system: skills are percentile rolls under rating, combat is
(attack stat+d20) vs (defense stat+d20), with table-driven
damage. Character creation is random-roll attributes and
point-bought skills.
Man, Myth, and Magic
Herbie Brennan
1982
Yaquinto
A mythic fantasy RPG ostensibly drawing from 4000 B.C. to 1000
A.D. Earth legends. The game mixes many elements from this wide
period. Character nationality and class are determined randomly,
so a party might have an African witch-docter, a Greek sybil, and
an Oriental shaman. It uses a class-based percentile system,
where you roll and add stat to beat 100. The basic game includes
a starting adventure set in a gladiator school.
Manual of the Eternal Sages
Scott J. Compton
1993
self-published
A small-press fantasy RPG, published as a spiral-bound
book of photocopies. It uses a percentile system, with a
complex tree structure of attributes.
Marauder 2107
Christina Laird
Delbert Laird
1994
Maelstrom Hobby
A post-nuclear-apocalypse anime-genre sci-fi RPG, set in a chaotic
Japan filled with Nomads, Newlords, a great Citystate and
Breeders (humans mutated into creatures resembling both demons
and conventional fantasy monsters).
Mars: A Roleplaying Game of Planetary Romance
Gareth-Michael Skarka
2007
Adamant Entertainment
A retro science fantasy RPG based on the Barsoom stories of Edgar Rice
Burroughs and other early sci-fi authors. It uses a variant of the
D20 System as found in <a href="GAME#d20modern">D20 Modern</a>.
Mars Colony
Tim C Koppang
2010
TCK Roleplaying
A sci-fi roleplaying game designed specifically for two players around
a particular scenario, to be played out in 2-3 hours. It is set in a
future where a Mars colony has been created by a coalition of Earth
governments, which is now dying after years of incompetence and disaster.
One player takes on the role of the colony's appointed savior, while
the other player is responsible for all the various problems that are
plaguing the citizens of Mars.
Marvel Superheroes
Jeff Grubb
Steve Winter
1984
TSR
2nd
1988
The first superhero RPG licensed from Marvel comics. This used
a simple system based on a universal table and attributes rated
in broad worded categories (from "Typical" to "Unearthly"). The
complete original rules are available online at
<a href="http://www.classicmarvelforever.com/cms/">
classicmarvelforever.com</a>.
Marvel Superheroes Adventure Game
Mike Selinker
Michele Carter
Bill Olmesdahl
Steven Schend
Steven Brown
1998
TSR
A superhero RPG on the same subject, but an unrelated system (the
"SAGA" system). The system uses a special 96-card deck rather
than dice. Each player has a hand of cards, and actions are
resolved by attribute+(card) vs difficulty. Wounds reduce the
size of your hand (so the number of cards you hold is also your
hit points).
Marvel Universe Roleplaying Game
Dan Gelber
Jeffrey Simons
Evan Jones
2003
Marvel Publishing Group
128
A superhero RPG set in the universe of Marvel Comics, unrelated to
the two earlier RPGs published by TSR. It uses a diceless system,
where players spend "stones" of effort out of a pool. Action
resolution is by stat plus stones of effort vs difficulty.
Character creation is point-based.
MasterBook
Ed Stark
Bill Smith
1994
West End Games
A generic RPG system, packaged with various worldbooks but not
as a standalone product. The system is a variant of the
<a href="GAME#torg">Torg</a> system, using 2d10 instead of 1d20 on
the bonus chart and a modified drama deck. Worldbooks include
<a href="GAME#worldofindianajones">Indiana Jones</a> (1994)
<a href="GAME#worldofbloodshadows">Bloodshadows</a> (1994),
<a href="GAME#worldoftankgirl">Tank Girl</a> (1995),
<a href="GAME#worldofnecroscope">Necroscope</a> (1995),
<a href="GAME#talesfromthecrypt">Tales from the Crypt</a> (1996),
<a href="GAME#worldofspecies">Species</a> (1995), and
<a href="GAME#worldofaden">Aden</a> (1995).
Masters of the Universe
L. Ross Babcock
Jack C. Harris
1985
FASA
A fantasy RPG/boardgame presented in comic book format,
based on the animated children's TV series. It uses pre-generated
characters ("He-man", "Teela", etc.) only.
Mean Streets
Mark Bruno
Todd Downing
2002
Deep7
58
A film noir RPG, using the "XPG" rules system published in electronic
PDF format. It is a very simple system designed to immediately jump
into play. The default setting is New York City in the 1940's,
during WWII. The basic game includes a sample adventure, "A Tangled Web".
Mecha
Chris Perrin
2010
Heroic Journey Publications
A sci-fi RPG based on Japanese anime about giant robot combat. It has
no single official setting, but the core book features three sample
settings: a surreal post-modern setting (inspired by The Big O),
a standard sci-fi setting (inspired by Gundam), and a tongue-in-cheek
high school mecha setting. Game sessions are broken into short
Episodes that take about a half hour. Each Episode starts with a
role-playing scene centered on a single player who makes a roll,
where success grants a bonus in the coming battle. This is followed
by a mecha battle conducted on a bullseye map. If a player faces defeat,
retreat is automatically successful unless the player chooses to risk
their character's life.
Mecha Aces
Anthony Ford
2005
ComStar Media, LLC
A mecha anime RPG built using a variant of the
<a href="GAME#fudge">Fudge</a> system. It includes
rules for mecha treated as characters on a different scale from
human characters.
Mechanical Dream
Benjamin Paquette
Francis Larose
2002
SteamLogic Editions, Ltd
368
An "industrial fantasy" RPG, set on Kainaas, a circle of light nearly
30,000 miles in diameter surrounded by a mysterious black wall. There
is a mix of modern technology for the elite, while in slums and
far-flung villages life is still in the medieval stage. It
uses a dice pool system where attribute determines the type of die
rolled (d4,d6,...) and skill determines the number of dice. The
highest roll is the result. Character creation is open point-based.
The Mechanoid Invasion
Kevin Siembieda
1981
Palladium Books
2nd
1985
A sci-fi game about invasion by evil aliens with robotic bodies.
This introduced the basic Palladium RPG system, later used by
<a href="GAME#palladiumfantasy">Palladium Fantasy</a>
and a number of other games. It uses random-roll attributes and
class-based character creation, with advancement based on levels.
Action resolution is by d20 (combat and saving throws) or d100 (skills),
similar to AD&D.
Mechwarrior
L. Ross Babcock
Jordan Weisman
Walter H. Hunt
Evan Jamieson
William Keith
Patrick Larkin
Richard K. Meyer
Kevin Stein
1986
FASA
2nd
Brian Nystul
Lester W. Smith
1991
3rd
Brian Nystul
1999
"Classic Battletech RPG"
2004
FanPro
A sci-fi RPG in the world of the <u>Battletech</u> boardgame,
set in a 31st century where constant wars are fought by giant robots
("mechs"). The 1st and 2nd editions focuses on PC's as pilots
and crew of battlemechs, while the 3rd edition expands the scope.
The 2nd edition system uses 2d6, roll over target number (based
on attribute) minus skill. The 3rd ed system uses 2d10 + skill
vs difficulty. Character creation is by a life path, choosing
skills and rolling for random events for different stages.
The 3rd edition was later reprinted by FanPro as the "Classic
BattleTech RPG", since the title "MechWarrior" was used for a
related collectible miniatures game.
Meddling Kids: An Introductory Role-Playing Experience
Allysson Brooks
2004
Meddling Games
Pandahead Productions
A humorous RPG inspired by "Scooby Doo" and similar cartoons from the
1970s. Character creation is based on picking one of 7 archetype:
Jock, Fluff, Brain, Goof, Temper, Sidekick, Innocent. There are
4 attributes: Strength, Moves, Smarts, Health. Players spend
24 attribute points and 26 points on abilities. Resolution is based
on 3d6 + stat + skill vs. difficulty. It has a non-lethal combat
system, and various options for the genre such as a quirky "Wild Card"
character and optional "Kids' Points" that can be spent by anyone
in the group to modify rolls.
Med ild og sværd
Jørn Eriksen
1984
self-published
A Danish-language fantasy mini-RPG, whose title translates as "With fire
and sword". It claims to be "the first fantasy roleplaying game in the
history of Denmark" which is probably correct. The rulebook is 20 A4
pages with a sketched cover. It is essentially a basic system
focused on miniatures combat, with no explanation of what role-playing
is. There was only one edition and no supplements.
Mediterraneo
Andrea Angiolino
1992
Giochi del 2000
2nd
1995
Qualitygame
An Italian-language fantasy-genre mini-RPG, set in the Europe of
classical myth, among Greek and Roman deities, demigods, and monsters.
The first edition was an independent booklet and came out as
supplement of "E Giochi" magazine #5 in January/February 1992.
The 2nd edition from Qualitygame was released as part of the
"I Giochi del 2000" collection.
MEGA
Didier Guiserix
Michel Brassinne
1984
Jeux & Strategie magazine
2nd
1986
Jeux & Strategie magazine
3rd
1992
Casus Belli magazine
4th
1993
Descartes
A French-language time-travel / alternate-worlds RPG (MEGA is
short for "Messagers Galactiques" or "Galactic Messengers"). The
first three editions appeared as special magazine issues (in
J&S and CB). The 4th edition (hardcover) includes the
campaign includes the campaign "Le Voleur d'Ygol" by Tristan
Lhomme.
MEGA Role-Playing System
Allon
Brakas
1987
Mega Games
An heroic fantasy RPG, English-language published in Norway.
It uses a complex system with numerous tables. Players are
required to write up a character background, and the GM then
assigns skill development levels based on the background. It
had a single adventure module: "Ogre Forest".
Meikyu Kingdom (迷宮キングダム)
Touichirou Kawashima
2004
Adventure Planning Service
Hobby Base
Miekyu Kingdom (lit. "Labyrinth Kingdom") is a Japanese fantasy role-playing
game. The player characters, called Landmakers, are members of a tiny
kingdom's royal court: king, knights, viziers, oracles, ninjas, and servants.
A magical force called "Dungeon Hazard" made the whole world (mountains,
rivers, plains, etc.) into dungeons. Landmakers explore and conquer
dungeons for their kingdom. The English title, "Make you kingdom!!",
is broken English, but has a double-meaning because it is pronounced
similarly to the Japanese title ''Meikyu Kingdom''. It's setting is
cynically tongue-in-cheek. For example, it includes a "vorpal bunny"
drawn from the computer game Wizardry's famous monster (itself based on
Monte Python and the Holy Grail), but its illustration is a bunny girl.
Meks 'n' Mekanoids
Denton R. Elliot
1987
Doc's Games
A sci-fi mini-RPG from the publisher of <a href="GAME#dinkydungeons">
Dinky Dungeons</a>, published in a 3''x5'' ziplock bag(!).
There were three supplements, all written by Stu Wagner:
"Beasts 'n' Bots" (animal forms for robots), "Weapons Wastebucket"
(new weapons and other features), and "Chaotic Combiners" (mega-robots
formed from smaller robots).
Mekton
Mike Pondsmith
1985
R Talsorian
Mekton II
1987
Mekton Zeta
Mike Pondsmith
Mike MacDonald
Benjamin Wright
1995
A far future sci-fi RPG, in the Japanese anime giant mecha
genre. It includes a brief mecha-genre far-future setting
(Algol) and GM notes on running anime adventures, but the
dominant part is treatment of the mechs themselves. The first
edition was predated by a earlier Mekton game in 1984 which
was not really role-playing. Editions "II" and "Zeta"
use a variant of the "Interlock" system, which is skill based
with actions resolved by attribute+skill+d10 vs difficulty.
Character creation is limited point-based, with a random number
of points (distribute 10d10 points to attributes, skill points
determined by your "Education" attribute). Various random-roll
"life path" tables add background color to the character.
Melanda: Land of Mystery
Lee McCormick
John Corradin
1980
Wilmark Dynasty
2nd
1981
A fantasy genre RPG set in an original fantasy world. The
character creation system has attributes determined by the
character's childhood studies. The magic system has spells
which are cast by combining runes, each of which has a different
purpose: nouns, prepositions, and adjectives. The fewer number of
words used, the better chance of success but the more general the
effect. The more words used, the more precise the effect, but the
less chance of success. It has a few supplements (including an
adventure module) made before it went out of print.
Men in Black
George Strayton
Nikola Vrtis
1997
West End Games
A humorous alien-conspiracy RPG based on the movie. The game
background and source material concentrates on silliness and
slapstick elements. It uses the "D6" system from the
<a href="GAME#starwars">Star Wars</a> game.
It adds "Cue Cards", given to each player with an action or line
of dialogue written on them. If the PC can do or say what's on
the card in the context of the adventure, they get a bonus.
Merc
Paul D. Baader
Walter Mark
Lawrence Sangee
1981
FGU
A military action RPG.
Merc: 2000
Loren Wiseman
1990
GDW
Not a standalone RPG, but rather an alternative campaign
supplement for <a href="GAME#twilight2000">Twilight: 2000</a>,
featuring a world where the big ugly nuclear war never came, but
brushfire wars, rebellions and other minor conflicts are fought
all over the world, thus offering plentiful employment for PCs.
Mercenaires
Francois Perrinel
1991
FLEO
108
A French-language modern-day action RPG. It uses a system intent on
realism, including extensive weapon tables. Character creation is
skill-based, with modifiers depending on whether you choose a civilian
or military career.
Mercenaries, Spies, and Private Eyes
Michael A. Stackpole
1983
Blade (a division of Flying Buffalo)
A generic modern-day mystery and espionage game. Uses a simple
skill system with level-based advancement. Action resolution by
attribute plus skill plus 2d6 (re-rolling doubles open-endedly)
vs difficulty.
Le Messager
Christoph Guillermet
1991
Éditions Role'Mag
A French-language space opera RPG, published by the game magazine
"Role'Mag". It is set among seven worlds created by gods, complete
with magic and demigods and various powerful organizations.
It includes three booklets: a 76-page rulebook, a 26-page universe
book, and an 18-page scenario book. The rules include 14 races
ranging from cat-men and bird-men, to more exotic races like the
Levyx (who are legless but levitate and have "hyper-vision").
Stats are based on a mix of random-roll and profession choices.
Attributes are tested on 1d20, while skills are percentile.
Messiah
Ashcan
Chris Perrin
2008
KNRPG Productions
A short GMless game where different factions vie for power in a world
gone wild after the coming of the Messiah, playable in roughly 2 hours.
Each player controls an entire faction, competing against each other
and the Messiah (who no one controls) in a strategic contest.
The Metabarons Roleplaying Game
Peter Schweighofer
2001
West End Games
A space opera RPG based on the French series of graphic novels
written by Alexandro (El Topo) Jodorowsky and illustrated by Juan
Gimenez. The series is a galaxy-spanning space opera focused on
a clan of powerful warriors. The RPG uses the "D6Legend" variant
of the <a href="GAME#d6">D6 System</a>. It uses special
six-sided dice where 3-6 is a success. You roll dice equal to your
stat, count the number of successes, and compare to the difficulty.
Metalface
R. Wallace Garner
2001
Eternal Tempest
A scifi RPG set on a far-future Earth where people are able to
transfer their souls into robotic bodies known as 'metalfaces.'
Past wars have ravaged the planet and reduced the population,
and free-enterprise now rises and battles for control of the
solar system. The game uses a six-sided dice system and a free
version of the rules can be downloaded in Adobe PDF format.
Metamorphosis Alpha: Fantastic Role-Playing Game
James Ward
Brian Blume
1976
TSR
2nd
James Ward
Slade Henson
1994
TSR
3rd
2002
Fast Forward Entertainment
4th
2006
Mudpuppy Games
A sci-fi game set on a 30-mile long generation starship ("The
Warden") gone awry. A radiation storm causes mutations to occur
to its occupants creating outlandish mutated humans and animals.
The concept was wandering around the interior encountering
strange creatures in a dungeon-like way -- including many
concepts that would later surface in <a href="GAME#gammaworld">
Gamma World</a>. The second edition in 1994 was a universe
book of this setting for the
<a href="GAME#amazingengine">Amazing Engine</a>
game system. The third and fourth edition use their own system,
referred to as the 3d6 system. Resolution uses a universal table
of attribute with difficulty to find a target number for a 3d6 roll.
Combat also uses a table that compares weapon class number
(from 21 to 3) and armor class number (from 21 to 2). Character
creation is primarily random roll, with varying rules for
robots, androids, and humans.
MetaScape
Blake Mobley
David Webb
Anthony Pryor
1993
The Game Lords, Ltd.
A space opera RPG. Its background is the "GuildSpace" setting,
which mixes far-future technology with medieval elements of
sorcery, psionics, swordplay, knighthood, and evil supernatural
villains. There are six character races, none of which is
strictly human. Each has focuses in one special ability:
psionics, the Sorce, psychosomatics, high-tech powered armor,
bioware, and cybernetics. The base mechanic uses a "doubling
die" which open-ends on a 16.
La Méthode du Docteur Chestel
Daniel Danjean
1991
Presses du Midi
52
A French-language sci-fi RPG, where the PC's are psychiatrists
who telepathically enter people's dreams to help them. The catch
is that mistakes can leave the doctor dead or brain-dead, or the
patient in worse shape than before.
M-Force: Monster Hunting in the 21st Century
Leighton Connor
2002
Hex
A modern-day monster-hunting RPG, set in an alternate Earth where
horrific monsters have been around throughout history. The PCs
are agents for a modern-day monster-hunting organization called
M-Force, founded as a non-profit organization in 1952. The rules
are based on Hex Games'
<a href="GAME#qags">QAGS</a> system, adding
character design rules, and skills. There are three attributes
(Body, Brain, and Nerve) along with three traits (Job, Gimmick,
and Weakness): all rated 1-10. Action resolution is to roll
under attribute + skill on 1d20, while contests require rolling
higher than the opponent's 1d20 roll but still under attribute +
skill. It also includes a hero point mechanic (called "Yum-Yums").
Mhâr Fantasy RPG
Greg Older
2008
Fool's Moon Entertainment
A fantasy genre RPG based around an original setting, the Kingdom of
Anæland. It uses a straightforward system that handles
resolution by rolling under skill plus modifiers on 1d20.
Character creation is a point-buy system, including the option of
flaws for additional points. Seven races are available: human, dwarf,
gnome, halfling, goblin, Hood (fox-people) and Nicila (cat-people).
Several pre-built character archetypes are provided. It includes a
magic system, divided into faith (used by priests) and magic
(used by wizards, alchemists, and spellweavers). Faith is more
reliable but more structured, where each faith has a few rituals
that are unique to it. Magic is more flexible but more dangerous.
Middle Earth Role Playing
S. Coleman Charlton
1984
Iron Crown Enterprises
2nd
1993
A game set in the world of J.R.R. Tolkien's fantasy series. The
adventures are set prior to the trilogy, around the year 1640 of
the Third Age. This is before Sauron had re-established himself
at Dol Guldur in Mirkwood and the Dwarves had awakened the Balrog
in Moria. It uses a simplified version of the
<a href="GAME#rolemaster">Rolemaster</a> mechanics: open-ended
percentile die rolls, resolved on extensive tables.
Midgard - Das Fantasy-Rollenspiel
Juergen E. Franke
1981
Verlag für Fantasy und SF-Spiele
2nd
1985
Verlag für Fantasy und SF-Spiele
3rd
1989
Klee Spiele
4th
2001
Klee Spiele
5th
2005
Verlag für Fantasy und SF-Spiele
Pegasus Spiele
A German-language medieval fantasy RPG, set in a Norse-themed
fantasy world ("Midgard") with giant, dragons, elfs, and dwarfs.
It is mid- to low-level fantasy. The rules system is class- and
level-based. Character creation has random-roll attributes
but point-based skill development. This was the first German-language
role-playing game to be published, and has since had several new
editions and two spin-off RPGs: the Victorian RPG
<a href="GAME#midgard1880">Midgard 1880</a> and the
licensed sci-fi RPG
<a href="GAME#perryrhodan_vfsf">Perry Rhodan</a> (2004).
Midgard 1880
Heinrich Glumpler
1994
Klee Spiele
A variant of the German-language fantasy game
<a href="GAME#midgard">Midgard</a>, set in Victorian times.
It features master criminals, anarchists, and conspiracies as well as
mummies, werewolves, vampires, and so forth. Support for the game was
later taken over by <a href="COMPANY#pegasus">Pegasus Spiele</a>
and <a href="COMPANY#vfsf">
Verlag für Fantasy und SF-Spiele</a>.
There were at least 14 adventures published for the game as well, along
with the long-titled sourcebook, "Doctor Nagelius' wohlfeiles und
weitschweifiges, exzentrisches und eklektisches Enzcyclopaedisches
Compendium der bekannten Welt" (Doctor Nagelius' ... Encyclopedic
Compendium of the Known World).
Midian Dark Fantasy Roleplaying Game
Golgotha Kinslayer
2003
Lost Souls Publishing
212
A dark fantasy genre RPG, where the PCs include humans, dwarves,
elves, trolls, and gaijin (a sort of barbaric human).
It uses a skill-based system, with optional classes purchased
with skill points. Character creation is a mix of random-roll
and point-based, including ads and disads. Action resolution
uses 1d20.
Midnight at the Well of Souls
Timothy R. Green
1985
TAG Industries
A sci-fi RPG based on the eponym Jack L. Chalker's novel series.
It features 150 character races and a partial map of "Well
World".
Midway City
Eddy Webb
2005
Spectrum Game Studios
Z-Man Games
An RPG set in a far future on a space colony 50 miles diameter where the dictator mandated that everyone live in what he calls "the Golden Age of humanity" -- meaning pre-World War II America. The dress, speech and technology are strictly regulated by the government to conform to this. This has been the status quo for roughly 120 years, and most people just accept what is going on and lead their normal lives out. Besides normal humans there are aliens (the Kyrhee), rare psychic half-breed aliens (known as "Gazers"), androids (known as "Blanks"), and mutants (known as "Flips"). Further, wounded people are sometimes given cyberware replacements. It uses a variant of the rules from <a href="GAME#cartoonactionhour">Cartoon Action Hour</a>. Character creation features an open-ended system for designing special abilities including steelware, flips, and psychic powers. Action resolution uses stat + 2d6 vs difficulty.
Miekka ja Magia
Risto J. Hieta
1987
Ultimate Oy
62
A small-press Finnish-language fantasy RPG, whose title translates
as "Sword and Magic". It is a rules-lite version of
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a>,
The classes include "barbaari" (barbarian), "taistelija" (fighter),
"seikkailija" (adventurer), "metsäläinen" (ranger), "velho"
(wizard) and "kerubi" (cherub -- something that can turn into
a spirit at will). This was the successor to a generic RPG
adventure entitled "The Secret Treasure of Raguoc in the Acirema
Dungeons".
Miekkamies
Ville Vuorela
1994
Burger
A Finnish-language baroque fantasy RPG, with heavy swashbuckling
elements. The title translates as "swordsman". It is set on an
original fantasy world called Arleon, a cross-breed between the
Roman Empire and 17th century Europe with supernatural elements.
The PC's are swashbuckling heroes, facing an evil magical force
known as the Darkfire which spawns monsters and is worshipped by
cultists. Areas that had fallen under its influence turned into
representations of hell. There are witches with powerful magic,
although they rely on numerous ingredients for their spells to
work.
Miles Christi
Benoit Clerc
1995
Sans Peur et Sans Reproche
A French-language historical RPG set in the era of the crusades.
The PC's are Templar Knights, although supplements cover other
character types. The system uses playing cards (i.e. Ace thru
King).
Mili KK: El Juego de rol de la puta mili;
Ricard Ibáñez
Jordi Cabau
2003
Proyectos Editoriales Crom
82 paperback
A Spanish-language humorous RPG about modern-day military service.
"Mili" is the name for Military Service, and "K K" sounds like
"caca", a word for shit. In this humourous game the PCs are youths
in the Military Service, with a rich popular culture of humour and
bad taste, drugs, jokes and characters as the Fascist Sargeant,
the Pacifist Joint-Smoker and the Rambo-like Soldier.
Based on mythical comic strips of the brilliant Ivá.
Millenium's End
Charles Ryan
1992
Chameleon Eclectic
2nd
1993
A techno-thriller RPG, in the style of novels by Michael Crichton
and Tom Clancy. It uses a percentile skill-based system.
The damage system uses a transparent overlay on silhouette figures
for hit location, and a table which includes determines blood loss
and stun from location, damage type, and amount.
Mimétis
Gilles Candotti
1990
Éditions des Sept Pierres
A French-language RPG, subtitled "The Game of Adaptation".
Players play themselves, mysteriously transported to an unknown
world, with only a pocket knife and a hangover. It includes a
detailed background for this world.
Mindjammer - The Roleplaying Game
Fate Core
Sarah Newton
2014
Mindjammer Press
Modiphius Entertainment
A transhuman science-fiction RPG setting. The first edition is a setting book released in 2010
for the FATE-based <a href="GAME#starblazeradventures">Starblazer Adventures</a> RPG.
The second edition is a stand-alone game using the Fate Core rules. The setting takes place after
thousands of years of expansion from Earth to other systems via slower-than-light colony ships.
The New Commonality of Humankind is using faster-than-light planeships to find the lost colonies
and bring them back into the transhuman community. Character types include humans, xenomorphs
(uplifted non-human species), and synthetics (sentient copies of personalities within the
virtual reality Mindscape).
Mini Six
Bare Bones
Phil Morris
Ray Nolan
2009
AntiPaladin Games
38
A universal system based on the open-license version of West End Games'
<a href="GAME#d6">D6 System</a>. Character creation is
limited point-bought, spending 12 dice among the four attributes
(Might, Agility, Wit and Charm); and 7 dice on skills and special
abilities (called Perks). Resolution is by rolling d6s equal to
attribute plus skill, and comparing the total to the difficulty.
The "Bare Bones" edition includes brief vehicle and magic rules.
Misery Bubblegum
Anthony Lower-Basch
2009
Muse of Fire Games
A short-term (30-60 minutes) roleplaying game about high school
relationships, contained entirely in a custom deck of cards -
such as "Need for Authority - Discard this card and the GM narrates
a decision that needs to be made".
M.I.S.S.I.O.N.
Ernest T. Hams
1982
Kabal Gaming Systems
16
A modern espionage RPG, using a complex system and including
detailed floorplans. It includes a secret base design system
where the GM spends a fixed budget of money on guard dogs,
steel doors, laser eyes, guards, etc. The PC's then attempt
to break into the installation and get to the protected secret.
The basic game includes seven 17.5" x 23" full-color maps
and four 15.5" x 23" building interiors.
Misspent Youth: A sci-fi game of teenaged rebellion
Robert Bohl
2010
self-published
16
A storytelling game of playing teenagers rebelling against authority
in a player-defined future. The setting is collectively created by
the players, including defining The Authory - the antagonist. Each
play session is broken into seven scenes. It uses a special conflict
resolution system where players roll 2d6 and claim that number on the
Conflict Map, where possible GM numbers are defined by what scene it is.
If a player rolls an already-claimed number, they win - but if they hit
a GM-controlled number they lose.
Mistborn Adventure Game
Brandon Sanderson
Alex Flagg
Patrick Kapera
John Snead
2011
Crafty Games
500
A fantasy steampunk RPG based on the novel series by Brandon Sanderson,
set in a region called Skadrial of the dystopic Final Empire - controlled
for the last thousand years by a dictator with divine powers. The player
characters are thieving "Crews" who use magical metallurgic arts.
It uses an original dice pool system, where action resolution is by
rolling up to ten d6s (based on stats) and looking for the highest
match from 1 to 5. Rolled 6s or stats above ten give nudges, where
a nudge can be spent for a +1 to margin of success or 3 nudges can
be spent for an additional action. Character creation is limited
point-based, assigning a strong, average, and weak area to each of
Powers, Attributes and Influences.
Mist-Robed Gate
Elizabeth Shoemaker
Shreyas Sampat
2008
Summerbird
A martial arts action RPG based on modern Chinese wuxia films. It uses
game mechanics involving a prop knife that can be in one of four states:
covered, sheathed, open, and bloody. In play, players fill out
character cards, and then take turns framing scenes. The player
framing a scene either fills out a new set card or chooses one that
is already filled out. The knife begins covered, and there is little
conflict in scenes. When the knife is sheathed, players can hand it to
other players, and they have to respond by entering wirework, escalating
(making the knife open), or passing it back to present the same options.
When it is open, a player can make explicit demands when passing the
knife, and the target can respond by entering wirework, meeting the
demand (and putting the knife down), elaborating the demand and passing
it to someone else, or stabbing another player's character sheet (making
the knife bloody). The character whose sheet is stabbed will die by the
end of the scene. The player can stab another character, do what was
asked, or enter wirework.
Mob Justice
Malcom Craig
2006
Contested Ground Studios
A game of modern crime, set amidst mafia violence in America during
the time of Prohibition (the 1920s). It uses a playing-card based
system where you assemble poker hands after drawing a number of cards
based on skill. In addition, each player has "story chips" which can
be used to manipulate the scene and bet on success. Character
creation is limited point-based. Two key stats, Reputation and
Stature, are chosen freely. There is also a Loyalty rating and
a Code which has both a numerical rating and a description (such as
"All of the crew on my jobs come back alive"). There are also broad
skills bought using points.
MOD RPG System
Sebastian Dietz
2000
Nimble Ogre Games
A German-language universal RPG system, designed to be a modular game
with genre modules for Fantasy, Magic, and Guns (modern-day firearms
and explosives). There are currently no predesigned settings, however.
Action resolution is by rolling under skill on 1d20 + modifiers.
There are also drama points which may be used to influence die rolls
and prevent damage, but they are single-use and can only be replenished
with new experience points. Character creation is open point based,
using a single pool of points for attributes, skills, race, advantages,
and disadvantages. <br>
In combat, characters have a number of short, long and very long actions
to spend (long and very long actions are multiples of a short action).
A character may defend himself by parrying or dodging without spending
actions, but every subsequent defense is more difficult than the
previous. A character may spend actions to improve his defense.
The damage system uses six hit locations, each with its own hit
points and armor points.
Modern 20
Charles Rice
2008
RPG Objects
An electronically-published standalone system based on
<a href="GAME#d20modern">D20 Modern</a>. The variant
aims to make the base system smoother and faster-playing.
It replaces the Basic, Advanced and Prestige Classes with six
Core Classes. The skill list has been changed, along with new
rules for backgrounds, occupations, and hobbies. Wealth is used,
but is not used to roll wealth checks. Critical hits are replaced
by a hit location system that modifies damage.
Moffet Babies: el juego de rol de los bebes mofetas
Miguel Garcia Fernandez
2002
La Cocoguawa
A humorous RPG where you play a baby and other players are your
roommates or your playmates. It incorporates a "good nanny manual".
Mondagor
Christian Neff
2004
fiveSTORMS Productions
A German-language fantasy genre RPG, set in an original fantasy world
of the same name. Player characters can be from 10 races (including
humans, elves, and dwarves) and 16 sub-races (including 3 human, 4
elven, and 2 dwarven). Character creation is limited point-based,
starting with choosing a race (and sub-race) if any, then spending
attribute points, skill points, and combat/magic talent points.
The experience system emphasizes "learning by doing". It includes
a magic system with three spheres of magic.
Mondes et Heros
[the "Migou" team]
1995
Gallimard
A French-language RPG line. It is an attempt at an easy RPG by
putting players in pre-generated roles as characters lifted from
novels. It had several books released: "Marid Audran" (from the
books by G.A. Effinger); "Odysseus" (from Homer's Oddessey);
"Orlando"; and "Sherlock Holmes".
Monkey, Ninja, Pirate, Robot: the Roleplaying Game
Chad Underkoffler
2004
Atomic Sock Monkey Press
64
A tongue-in-cheek RPG based on a board game where cartoon-like
characters try to foil the plots of cow-napping aliens, gain Mojo,
and lay their hands on the all-powerful sweet, sweet Uranium!
Mojo is the peculiar power of being cool and funkily awesome, and
is used to be cool, and gained by being cool -- as well as by
eating uranium (naturally). The game uses a variant of the
Prose Descriptive Qualities (PDQ) system introduced in
<a href="GAME#deadinside">Dead Inside</a>.
Character creation is by choosing race, a Goal, 2 to 4 freeform
keywords which give bonuses, and a weakness. Action resolution
is by 2d6 + bonus vs difficulty.
Monsterhearts
Joe McDonald
2012
Buried Without Ceremony
A modern-day horror RPG inspired by teenage dramatic stories such as
Stephanie Meyer's Twilight, using rules adapted from
<a href="GAME#apocalypseworld">Apocalypse World</a>.
Each PC is an archetypal monster with its own playbook of distinct
Moves - including Vampire, Werewolf, Witch, Ghost, etc.
Monster Horrorshow
J.H. Brennan
1987
Armada
A humorous horror RPG, written by the British author of the
GrailQuest and DemonSpawn fantasy adventure books. The GM is
called the "WereWizard", and must qualify for the position by
passing through a solo adventure entitled the "Labyrinth of Squat".
The book includes a simple system, monster cards, and the
adventure.
Monster Island: The Game of Giant Monster Combat
Bruce Harlick
Patrick Sweeney
2002
Firefly Games
32
A miniatures/role-playing game of giant monster combat.
Monsters & Magiërs
Foob
Koen De Waele
David Van Dijck
Dirk Vandenheuvel
1989
The Wise Tree
72
A Dutch-language fantasy RPG: "Monters & Magicians".
This is a shorter 72-page introductory version of
<a href="GAME#schimmenandschaduwen">Schimmen & Schaduwen
</a>. It is a simple but complete RPG with different characters,
magic spells cards, monsters and an introductory scenario.
Monsters and Other Childish Things
Benjamin Baugh
2007
Arc Dream Publishing
48
A horror RPG about kids who each have a monster that does things for
them. It uses a simplified variant of the One-Roll Engine rules found
in <a href="GAME#wildtalents">Wild Talents</a> and
<a href="GAME#godlike">Godlike</a>. As in other games,
the d10 dice pool is used to resolve conflicts, looking for number of
matching faces. Character creation is limited point-based. There are
five attributes (Feet, Wits, Hands, Guts, and Attention) and related
skills. Character also have rated relationships, which could be to
parents, friends, or even stuffed animals. Lastly, they create their
monster according to another limited point system.
Monsters & Slayers
Clifford Raymond Fagan
1991
Atlantis Enterprises
An RPG set in a mythic version of the British Isles in
527 A.D. (with faeries and monsters). It uses a d6 based
system: roll 3d6 under attribute, or roll 2d6 under 8+mods for
combat. Characters have 7 attributes (Strength, Endurance,
Dexterity, Intelligence, Luck, Persuasiveness, and
Attractiveness).
Monsters! Monsters!
Ken St. Andre
1976
Flying Buffalo
A fantasy RPG spin-off from <a href="GAME#tunnelsandtrolls">
Tunnels and Trolls</a>. This is a traditional fantasy game
reversed with players play the monsters fighting human heroes.
Monte Cook's World of Darkness
Monte Cook
Luke Johnson
Sean K. Reynolds
2007
White Wolf
A modern dark fantasy/horror RPG, a variation of the
<a href="GAME#worldofdarkness">World of Darkness</a>
setting where extra-dimensional horrors known as the Inconnu opened
a gate hundreds of miles wide in the central United States. Now
one year later, the U.S. has collapsed into dealing with its internal
problems, and horrors stalk the fringes. The Inconnu create vampires,
werewolves, and demons -- while there are also mages and the Awakened
(extraordinary humans). It uses a rules variant based on the D20
system, where character type (such as vampire or werewolf) functions
as both a race and a class.
Montsegur 1244
Frederik J. Jensen
2009
Thoughtful Games
A storytelling game where players take characters from the historical
siege of Montsegur where the sect of Cathars were assaulted as heretics
by forces backed by the Catholic Church. It uses a diceless system of
narration rules, where play is divided into a number of predefined turns
leading up to the inevitable defeat of the Cathars, where each character
must choose whether to burn themselves alive (as many historical Cathars
did). There are a number of special cards that define elements to
potentially include in the story.
Moros Role-Playing Game
Jurjen Stellingwerff
2006
self-published
94
A fantasy genre RPG using a simple dice pool system. It is set in a
medieval world, where mystical powers can be obtained easily but has
side effects and is often illegal. The book is self-published via
print-on-demand service
<a href="http://www.lulu.com/content/226582">Lulu.com</a>.
An earlier free version is available on a
<a href="http://www.geocities.com/area51/Comet/8192/Moros.html">
Geocities site</a>.
Morpheus
Devin Durham
1990
Rapport Games
Crunchy Frog
A virtual reality RPG set in the near-future, where PC's are
players in Morpheus Mind Park virtual reality games. Characters
have 4 attributes (Imagination, Confidence, Ego, and Reputation),
3 skills (Reality Control, Accuracy, and Defense), and various
virutal "powers" (which include more regular skills). You have a
pool of dream points, which can be used to buy new powers - even
in mid-play. It uses a percentile resolution system, which is
slightly math-heavy (i.e. damage = (100% + (Attack - Defense) *
10%) * Xd10).
The Morrow Project
Kevin Dockery
Robert Sadler
Richard Tucholka
1980
Timeline, Inc.
2nd
1980
3rd
1983
Timeline, Inc.
Abacus Dimensions
A realistic post-apocalyptic RPG. The PC's are agents deliberately
frozen to rebuild the world after nuclear war, as part of a private
project by Bruce Edward Morrow (aka "The Morrow Project"). However,
something went wrong with the project mechanisms, and the PC's wake
up alone 150 years after World War III. This game has a lot of
attention paid to detail and hardware, reflecting the survivalist
genre. The system is combat-focused, with other issues covered
only after the 3rd edition. cf. the
<a href="http://www.geocities.com/Area51/Stargate/3351/welcome.htm">
Morrow Project home</a>.
Mortal Coil
Brennan Taylor
2006
Galileo Games
94
A modern fantasy role-playing game inspired by Miyazaki's film
"Spirited Away" and Neil Gaiman's comic "Sandman". It allows a
range of fantasy backgrounds. It has a diceless mechanical system,
where players spend from four pools of tokens: Action, Passion, Power,
and Magic. Characters have four attributes (calls "Faculties") named
Power, Grace, Wits, and Will; as well as player-defined aptitudes like
"Barfly". The mechanics work by bidding tokens on conflicts.
Mortal Combat
David John Morris
Steve Foster
Andrew Murdin
1979
Waynflett House Ltd (UK)
A generic "historical or fantasy" RPG rules system (softcover
booklet, 64 pages). Nine attributes: Strength, Constitution,
Manual Dexterity, Agility, Speed, Looks, Intelligence, Learning
and (magical) Talent. Advancement is level-based. Magic works
with spell points and success chance for spells, organised in 8
spell levels, around specialties : Alchemy, Antiquities &
Languages, Demonology and Artificery.
The Mountain Witch
Timothy Kleinert
2005
Timfire Publishing
162
A role-playing game with a built-in adventure: a group of ronin samurai
are hired to assault and kill O-Yanma, the dreaded Mountain Witch of
Mount Fuji. It uses a simple resolution system, with player-created
Fates for their characters and a system of Trust which focuses play
on trust and betrayals among the PCs.
The Mouse Guard Roleplaying Game
Luke Crane
David Petersen
2008
Archaia Studios Press
320
Boxed Set
2011
A medieval roleplaying game adapting the anthropomorphic comic book
series of the same name. The setting is the Mouse Territories, a
collection of three dozen or so mouse settlements loosely unified
under a Matriarch. The Matriarch acts as head of the Mouse Guard,
a group of idealistic knight errants who maintain the roads and
deal with external threats. While there are dangerous wild animals
ranging from crows to snakes, the only other intelligent creatures
are the bordering weasels. It uses an original dice pool system
related to <a href="GAME#burningwheel">Burning Wheel</a>.
Resolution is by rolling d6s equal to stat, with bonuses dice for
gear, help, or applicable knowledge skills ("wises") - every result
of 4 or higher is one success. This is modified by spending Fate and
Persona points, or activating traits. It has a unified conflict
resolution mechanic similar to BW's Duel of Wits - used for arguments,
chases, fights, journeys, etc. Each side generates a starting score,
or Disposition, and then every round, each side chooses three actions
in secret, continuing until one side or the other is reduced to zero
disposition. The PCs are always members of the Guard, generated by
a simple step-by-step process of selecting rank, age, birthplace,
and so forth.
MSF High RPG
Joseph Fanning
2007
self-published
202
A humorous anime-inspired RPG set in MSF Highschool, a training
ground for teenage superheroes, including both alien and magical
races. The book is self-published via print-on-demand service
<a href="http://www.lulu.com/content/1007331">Lulu.com</a>.
MSG
executive
Wood Ingham
Becky Lowe
Benjamin Baugh
2008
Firebird, Ltd.
A satirical rotating-GM RPG about corporate marketing and the rat race,
where the player characters are company representatives (reps). Each
turn, one player plays The Company trying to crush the reps.
Character creation includes choosing to be Freelance or an Asset,
along with picking expertises, perks, relationships, two attributes
(Compassion and Self), and a "Unique Selling Point." The players
create their company as a group, then play through a series of
situations in the boardroom. After everyone has taken a turn as GM,
the player with the most resources wins and gets to narrate the
conclusion.
MuggerHunt
Kevin Dockery
1983
Firebird, Ltd.
A light-hearted solitaire game -- not really an RPG -- about
unting down muggers in urban "game preserves". The only
"attribute" of hunters/muggers is what they are armed with.
Multimondes
Michel Gaudo
1988
Oriflam
A French-language hard science-fiction RPG, with only a few outer
colonies.
Multiverser
E.R. Jones
M. Joseph Young
1997
Valdron Inc.
2nd
2000
A dimension-hopping RPG where players play themselves with the
discovery that they reincarnate in a new universe / scenario upon
death (via personal energy known as "scriff"). The skills are
divided into "biases": Technology / Psionics / Magic / Body.
These are also the categories of rating dimensions (i.e. some
universes are high-magic, low-technology).
Multiworlds
A. Piparo
L. de Luca
1999
Cuccia Editore
An Italian-language universal RPG system. It has a lengthy and
complex character creation process and simple resolution system.
Munchkin RPG
Andrew Hackard
Steve Jackson
2003
Steve Jackson Games
A humorous parody of D&D and other fantasy RPGs based on
the card game "Munchkin" card game. It uses the D20 System from 3rd edition
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a>.
Complete rules are not provided: basic rules for character creation,
combat, and other systems refer to the D&D Players Handbook.
Murphy's World
Kevin Davies
David Brown
1995
Peregrine
A humorous RPG about the world where the junk of many universes
collects, intended particularly for characters from other game
universes to drop in for light-hearted adventures.
Musha Shugyo
Luca De Marini
2015
Acchiappasogni
A martial arts game, set in a flexible setting including both modern and ancient elements.
Mutant
Mikael Petersén
Gunilla Jonsson
1984
Aventyrspel
2nd
1989
Target Games
"Undergångens Arvtagare"
Joakim Bergström
Martin Bergström
Mattias Jonsson
Mattias Lilja
Fredrik Lindregn
Andreas Marklund
Johan Normark
2002
Järnringen HB
A Swedish-language post-nuclear-apocalypse RPG, set many years
after world wars and great plague. The PCs are descendants of
survivors, in a feudal Scandinavia that is slowly rebuilding. The
rules are based on 3rd ed <a href="GAME#drakarochdemoner">
Drakar och Demoner</a>, with new rules for mental powers and
mutations instead of magic. The 2nd edition kept the rules but
converted it to a generic cyberpunk RPG without any post-apocalyptic
aspect. The 3rd edition's title translates to "Mutant: The
Heirs of the Apocalypse". It returns to the post-apocalyptic
world of the first edition, with some changes. The rules have
been simplified and streamlined.
Mutant Chronicles
1st [Swedish]
Magnus Seter
Henrik Strandberg
Nils Gulliksson
Michael Stenmark
Jerker Sojdelius
Stefan Thulin
Fredrik Malmberg
1993
Target Games
1st [English]
Matt Forbeck
Paul Beakley
1993
Target Games
Heartbreaker Games
2nd
1996
Year Zero
2014
Tomas Härenstam
Modiphius Entertainment
Fria Ligan
A techno-fantasy RPG and miniatures system from Sweden. It is
set in a distant future where Earth has been destroyed, and the
solar system is colonized by soulless megacorps. A discovery on
Pluto unleashes "The Darkness", which makes computers go crazy
and throws the solar system into chaos. The fanatical
"Brotherhood" arose to resist the taint of "Dark Symmetry" in an
Inquisition-like manner -- later leading the crusade when a tenth
planet was found, unleashing a horde of "Necromutants" which
nearly wiped out humanity.
Mutant City Blues
Robin D. Laws
2008
Pelgrane Press
A near-future police RPG set in a future where ten years ago, 1%
of the population gained mutant powers such as flight, telepathy,
and energy bolts. The PCs are members of the police Heightened
Crime Investigation Unit that investigates crimes in the mutant
community. It uses a version of the "GUMSHOE" system that first appeared
in <a href="GAME#esoterrorists">The Esoterrorists</a>.
It uses diceless point-spending to resolve investigative skills,
and die rolls modified by points for core skills. Character creation
Mutantes en la Sombra
Jose Felix Garzon
Igor Arriola
1991
Ludoctenia
"G2"
Mikel Cabriada
Igor Arriola
Joseba Calle
Carlos Monzón
J.A. Tellaetxe Isusi
1997
Ludoctenia
160
A Spanish-language modern-day psychic powers RPG along the lines of
<a href="GAME#psiworld">Psi World</a>, where player characters
can be either mutants or normals. The system uses 1d20 versus a
target number, determined by comparing skill and difficulty on a
universal table. The combat system is very deadly, where a rifle
round may cause 12d6+5 damage when a strong character has 24 hit
points. The first edition revolves around Cold War espionage and
politics, while the second edition deals with post-Cold War politics,
Middle-Eastern terrorism and a second generation of mutants created
by the Chernobyl incident.
Mutant Future
Daniel Proctor
Ryan Denison
2008
Goblinoid Games
A post-apocalyptic science fantasy RPG, in the style of the
<a href="GAME#gammaworld">Gamma World</a> game and
similar games of the late 1970s and early 1980s. Player characters
types include pure human, android, mutant human, mutant animal,
and even mutant plant!
Mutant R.Y.M.D.
unknown
1992
Target Games
A short-lived Swedish-language sci-fi/cyperpunk RPG, a
predecessor to Mutant Chronicles. The system is similar
to <a href="GAME#warhammerfantasy">Warhammer</a>.
Mutants & Masterminds
Steve Kenson
2002
Green Ronin Publishing
192 glossy, full-color pages, hardbound
A generic superhero RPG. The rules are a standalone system based
on the D20 System used by 3rd edition
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a>.
It includes a point-based character creation system and an assortment
of feats, super-feats, and powers. The basic rulebook includes 12
"ready to play" hero templates, aloing with sample villians and an
introductory adventure. The damage system is streamlined to require
only a d20. Damage is handled by a saving throw against the damage
value. Failing accumulates "hits" which incur penalties, while
failing the save by 5 or more can stun or knock unconcious an opponent.
Mutazoids
Ken Whitman
1989
Whit Productions
2nd
1991
3rd
Moses "Wolfy" Wildermuth
2003
MT Enterprises, LLC
A post-apocalyptic RPG, set in the year 2073, sixty years after
the world was swept by the accidental release of the man-made plague
virus. The government is the "Second Republic", which suppresses
the mutant majority, with political and racial overtones. The
PC's are "Enforcers" who hunt the dangerous mutants ("mutazoids").
The system uses 2d6 roll vs stat on a universal table. Character
creation is by random-roll attributes, and semi-random lifepath
approach for skills.
Muthom
unknown
unknown
PL Productions
A French-language sci-fi RPG set in the near future as the Earth is
being invaded by aliens.
Rollespillet Muu
Tomas HV Mørkrid
1989
self-published
A Norwegian-language fantasy RPG about peaceful, semi-intelligent
creatures trying to find food, take baths, cuddle, and sleep.
The muu have no language. All actions in the game are initiated
by normal playing cards. Any conflicts are resolved by the use
of dice. The method involves strong techniques for transforming
the language used in-game into poetic Muu-phrases. The aim of the
game is to create a kind of merry harmony.
My Life With Master
Paul Czege
2003
Half-Meme Press
A horror RPG where the PCs are all deformed minions of an evil,
demented genius -- in the vein of Igor or Quasimodo. It uses a
set of strict rules on the dramatic progression of the story, which
depends on the stats and rolls made. Each minion character has two
descriptive traits: "More than Human" and "Less than Human". There
are also three numeric traits: Self-Loathing, Weariness, and Love
(though Love always starts at zero).
Myranor: Das Güldenland
Britta Herz
Jörg Raddatz
Thomas Römer
2000
FanPro
A fantasy-genre German-language RPG related to
<a href="GAME#dasschwarzeauge">Das Schwarze Auge</a> system.
It is set on a different continent of the same world as DSA,
called the "Golden Land" by Aventurians. It uses a precursor
to the 4th edition DSA rules. Character generation is open
point-bought, and it includes a very open magic system.
Myriad: A Universal RPG System
Extended
Ashok Desai
2006
Sane Studios
143
A universal RPG system designed to be incomplete, with some assembly
required by the GM and players, putting together various optional parts.
There are four core attributes: Power, Grace, Intellect and Spirit.
It includes several options for character creation, including limited
point-bought, random-roll, and template-based. Resolution is by rolling
d6s equal to attribute, adding skill level to the highest die, and
comparing the total to difficulty or opposed roll. The basic system
(74 pages) is released under the Creative Commons License, with a
free PDF available. The print version is "extended" with additional
material, including using stealth as a form of conflict, mass battle
rules, a large selection of new SFX, and an additional chapter on
designing your own game setting.
Myrskyn aika
Mike Pohjola
2003
Johnny Kniga Publishing
A Finnish-language fantasy RPG aimed at immersion in character and
emotional realism. The text focuses on setting and GM instructions,
with simple rules provided for both tabletop and larp. The book
describes the semi-medieval world of Valenor, with a spaghetti
western look and strong political themes. The mechanics aim to
emphasize the character's experience rather than the physical reality.
Mystery Men
John Stater
2011
self-published
72
A simple superhero RPG based on the Swords & Wizardry system
by Matt Finch. It uses character classes and levels, with the three
classes being Adventurer, Sorcerer, or Scientist. It includes over
200 superpowers, with most being adapted versions of fantasy genre
spells. Resolution is by adding attribute + 1d20 and comparing to
either 10 + opposing stat or calculated Defense Class (for combat).
Released under Wizards of the Coast's Open Game License.
Mystic Forces
unknown
2000
Positive Roleplaying
A fantasy RPG, set on an original world ("Oryathar"). The
PC's are "Shinkai" who have been granted mystic powers by the Light
to battle the Shadow which threatens the world. There are five
races: the telepathic Brightlings, the stout and durable Grak,
the agile and long-armed Loremek, the cat-eyed Valkin, and the
giant and stone-skinned Warlum.
Mythes et Légendes
A. L. Gohin
unknown
self-published
A French-language traditional medieval fantasy RPG.
Mythic Role Playing
Tom Pigeon
2003
Word Mill Publishing
An universal improvisational game, which has rules for spontaneously
generating adventures. It uses parameters determined at the start,
combined with randomly determined answers to yes/no questions.
It is designed to be playable as a standalone RPG or also as a
supplement for GM-less play using other RPG rules.
Mythic Russia: heroism and adventure in the land of the Firebird
Mark Galeotti
2006
Firebird Productions
A standalone fantasy RPG, using the HeroQuest engine in the setting of
the ancient Russia of history, legend and folktale. The setting is a
cinematic one where the PCs are rare magical heroes. All magic is
based on theism in HeroQuest, with a single Otherworld common to both
pagan and Christian worship. Religion is a pastiche of paganism and
Christianity. For example, one character might worship Volos the
cattle god, and argue with his brother, who insists on calling him
Saint Vlasii -- while both agreeing on many details. The game includes
extensive notes on the body of myth and folklore including many villains
and heroes, as well as maps, an introductory scenario, and many
adventure seeds.
Mythworld: Realistic Fantasy
Paul Cardwell, Jr.
1986
Hippogriff Publications
A generic fantasy RPG aimed mainly at playing in times of myth --
primarily late bronze age to early iron age. It uses a detailed
rule system. The original was published as a boxed set with
six books (Rules, Bestiary, Outfitter, Skills, Spells, and
Robber's Cave), along with five 4-page character sheets and
three dice (d6, d8, d20).
Name Keeper
Jose Luis Pumarega
2001
La Factoria de Ideas
A Spanish-language fantasy RPG. The world is flat and falls towards
the floor of the universe. The gods were defeated by the demons and
now the hell is physically in the world (i.e. on the map) and when
people die they appear there, always. When they were defeated the
gods gave a magical language to the humans to allow them to survive,
though the magicians (the Name Keepers) are not so sure. The PCs
are from Isla, which has the more advanced civilization of the world.
Isla has makers of the "clocks": robots that work by clockwork
mechanisms.
Nameless Streets
Charles Green
2010
Alephtar Games
A paranormal detective RPG set in modern-day Portland, Oregon - developed
as a setting and variant of the HeroQuest system created by Issaries, Inc.
It includes full keywords for various supernatural creatures including
vampires and werewolves, to lamia and djinn. It also adds rules for
five different magical traditions, including Witchcraft, Necromancy,
and Wizardry.
Narnia - Das Rollenspiel
Ulrich Drees
Oliver Plaschka
2008
Brendow Verlag
432
A German-language fantasy role-playing game set in the world of Narnia,
based on the book series by C.S. Lewis. It uses a simple though not
minimal set of rules aimed at beginners.
The Nearside Project
Stephen Herron
Tom Bisbee
Barry O'Connor
1996
Nearside Games
A sci-fi RPG of parallel earths, set among 13 parallel dimensions
of the modern world caused by unknown forces. The "variants" (as the
dimensions are called) are traveled by people known as "Nearsiders",
who have a neural anomaly allowing them to find and penetrate the
doorways between variants.
Nebuleon SF RPG
William Corrie III
2004
HinterWelt Enterprises
A spacefaring sci-fi RPG with a percentile skill-based system
(the "Iridium System"). It is set in the RFW (Republic of Free Words)
which establishes regular diplomatic ties, encourages trade, keeps
shipping lanes open, protects traders, and maintains peace. Alongside
it, the Andromedaen Council of Guilds, the Grou-Lynn Empire, and
the Kolkesh Empire seek to strengthen the galaxy from the threat
of the Jiran Theocracy. Character creation is random-roll
attributes (best of 3d20), followed by choosing a class which
influences skills.
Neighborhood
Kristan J. Wheaton
1982
Wheaton Publications
An RPG where the PC's are kids role-playing fairly normal
childhood adventures.
Nemesis: A Perfect World
Malcolm Harris
2001
Maximum CNG
A post-apocalyptic superhero RPG, set in the modern world after a
supernatural disaster (the "Nemesis event") which gave certain people
supernatural powers. It uses a skill-based system. Action resolution
uses 2d6. Character creation is either an original character, or
creating a version of yourself with powers. There are six templates
for superpowers.
Nemundir
Lambert Tóth
2007
Delonaran
A Hungarian-language fantasy RPG.
Neotech
Marco Behrmann
Dan Hörning
Carl Johan Ström
Krister Sundelin
1993
Neogames AB
2nd
1999
A Swedish-language cyberpunk / technothriller RPG, set in
the year 2059. It has a detailed background as well as
rules for netrunning and cyber implants. The system and
background try to be as realistic as possible regarding
weapon rules, social changes and the world as a whole.
Nephandum
Massimo Bianchini
Mario Pasqualotto
2005
Asterion Press
1st [English]
Massimo Bianchini
Mario Pasqualotto
2007
Mongoose Publishing
160
An Italian-language dark fantasy / horror RPG, using the D20 system,
later translated into English and released by Mongoose Publishing.
Set in a fantasy world where five dark cosmic entities rule over five
different aspects of fear: Disease, Madness, Blood, Darkness and Savagery.
Nephilim
1st [French]
Fabrice Lamidey
Frederic Weil
1991
Multisim
2nd [French]
1992
1st [English]
Fabrice Lamidey
Sam Shirley
Greg Stafford
Frederic Weil
1994
Chaosium
An occult RPG where characters are immortal creatures that
awaken in human form. First edition was French-language, later
translated into English.
Neuroshima
Michal Oracz
Ignacy Trzewiczek
2003
Portal
A Polish-language post-apocalyptic game which action takes place in
the U.S. after the rebellion of great strategic military computer.
Cities are burn to the ground, people are fighting with machines
and so on. World is somehow similar to computer RPG "Fallout" or
movie "Mad Max". It uses a game system emphasizing speed of play.
Action resolution uses 3d20 vs difficulty.
NeverWorld
Erin Laughlin
1996
ForEverWorld
A fantasy-genre system, focusing on a variety of fantasy races
and cultures. The world is one where the various races are
closed off from each other, casting the PCs as explorers. It
uses a skill-based system with complex character generation.
New Gods of Mankind
Richard Leon
2007
Dark Skull Studios
A fantasy genre game where the player characters are minor new gods
who have latched onto a struggling human tribe in a largely Bronze Age
fantasy world. The humans' worship of the new gods empowers them with
Belief that allows them to stay in existence and perform miracles.
Humans are threatened by warlike Salamanders and rampaging Jurelian
Giants, but live at peace with the taciturn Gnomes, water-dwelling
Undines, and knowledgeable Sylphs. There are also Light and Dark
breeds of Wood Nymphs, that live in forests and generally ignore humans.
Resolution uses a step-die dice pool, where players generally roll d6s
unless incarnate in a mortal form, when they roll d10s for most actions
except skills in their domain that they roll d12s for. The new gods and
their human worshipper face various threats including elder races and
their gods, god-like beings that feed on fear called Leviathans, and
rival gods of humanity. Character creation is point-based, with each
new god getting 50 belief points and 100 followers. Player character
also pick one primary domain - such as Birth, Death, Adventure, or
Magic - and three secondary Domains such as Intrigue, Lightning, Cats,
or Gambling. Advancement is based on getting Belief Points per year
equal to 20% of the number of worshippers for that god.
Nexus: Live Action Roleplaying
Rick Dutton
Walter O. Freitag
1994
Chaosium
A live-action RPG game/scenario intended for 44 players
and 5 referees. The scenarios is about aliens who manage to land
their meeting right in the middle of a sci-fi convention, and
accidentally mistake the con-goers for their comrades. The book
comes complete with characters, handouts, and a brief rules set.
Nexus: The Infinite City
Robin D. Laws
Jose Garcia
1990
Daedalus Games
An interdimensional action game, set in a city which extends
across dimensions and constantly changes its geography and
connections. It uses a precursor to the system in
<a href="GAME#fengshui">Feng Shui</a>, with stat+1d6-1d6
resolution and a point-bought character creation system.
Ngenesis: the Trials of Flesh
Justin Killam
Damien Hunt
2008
Apocrypha Studios
A post-apocalyptic science fantasy RPG set in the far future where
the player characters are modern gods called Ngen reawakened after
ages of sleep to survive through the plagues of the apocalypse.
The Ngen first appeared in the near future, using a mystic energy
called the Pyur to become rulers of a thousand-year golden age.
Then creatures of chaos and darkness called Hrongyr appeared,
spreading contagion. The Ngen and their custodians retreated
underground and went into hibernation to wait out the plagues.
The player characters are Ngen newly awakened after an unspecified
time, their custodians now missing. The game uses a dice pool system
called the Providence system. In resolution, the player rolls a number
of dice equal to skill rating (0 to 6) of a type based on attribute
rating (from d2 to d12). The result is the highest die, modified
by +1d6 (Fate Die) and -1d6 (Doom Die) and any modifiers for
difficulty or other circumstances. A positive result is a success.
The result is used as level of success, such as for damage in combat.
There are 12 attributes, divided into 4 each for Mind, Body, and Soul.
There are also about 50 skills divided among controlling attributes.
Nightbane
C.J. Carella
1995
Palladium Books
A modern horror game about supernatural shape-changers who can
appear human, but are really creatures from another dimension
(the "Nightlands"). PCs are "Nightbane" who fight to protect
humanity from the "Nightlords" who are poised to take over the
world, with human sorcerors and vampires somewhere in the mix.
The system is a variant of the <a href="GAME#palladiumfantasy">
Palladium Fantasy RPG</a> system. It was formerly known as
"Nightspawn" but the name was changed for legal reasons.
NightLife
Bradley K. McDevitt et al.
1990
Stellar Games
2nd
1991
3rd
1992
A modern-day horror game where the characters are various
monsters: vampires, werewolves, zombies, etc.
Night of the Ninja: Reality Role Playing Game
Tom Wall
Sandford Tuey
1986
IIE / Mastery Manual
A martial-arts RPG in a modern-day setting, with an emphasis
on combat. The opponents are terrorists and organized crime.
Night Prowler
Croc
1995
Siroz
A French-language medieval fantasy RPG, set in the world of the
Seven Cities, a giant megalopolis where crime is everpresent.
PC's are thieves who fight machiavelian authorities to earn their
livings. It includes detailed background on the Seven Cities.
Character generation is class-based, with a wide variety of
classes and races. Races include dwarves and elves but also many
other varieties.
Night's Black Agents
Kenneth Hite
Robin D. Laws
2012
Pelgrane Press
A modern-day supernatural spy thriller RPG, combining inspiration from
movies like Ronin and The Bourne Identity with classic supernatural
horror like Bram Stoker. It uses a variant of the GUMSHOE that first
appeared in
<a href="GAME#esoterrorists">The Esoterrorists</a> -
expanded to include more combat options along with chases and
high-tech espionage operations.
Night Witches
Jason Morningstar
2015
Bully Pulpit Games
A historical RPG about the Soviet 588th Night Bomber Regiment in World War Two, which
consisted entirely of women. It uses rules adapted from Vincent Baker's
<a href="GAME#apocalypseworld">Apocalypse World</a>.
Play alternates between day and night scenes, with different Moves available for each.
Nil
unknown
1985
Fondation du Stratège
68
A French-language historical RPG set in ancient Egypt. The
is diceless, using order sheets with wargame-like overtones.
Nine Worlds
Matt Snyder
2004
Chimera Creative
A science fantasy RPG with an original setting, a fantasy solar system
with elements of Greek mythology where aetherships traverse the
swirling mists of space between the nine planets, each ruled by the
Eternals (Aphrodite ruling Venus, etc.). The rules use playing cards,
where each player has a deck of cards to draw from. Characters draw
based on their Arete or Hubris attribute, with bonuses for related
Muses; then select a number of cards of the same suit. Winning
conflicts results in the accumulation of Tricks.
Ninja Burger: The Role-playing Game
Michael Fiegel
Kenshiro Aette
Christopher O'Neill
2001
9th Level Games
Aetherial Forge
2nd
2006
A humorous RPG system where the PC's are ultra-powerful ninjas who
have taken day jobs as fast food deliverers. They go on missions to
deliver the food in 30 minutes or less (even to inside a high
security installation) without being seen by the customer. If they fail,
they must commit seppuku. It uses a very simple system. Four stats
are generated by rolling 3d6 (Strength, Agility, Ki, and Endurance).
Resolution is by rolling under your stat on a multi-d6 roll, with
more dice rolled for more difficult tasks. The second edition uses
a variant of the Prose Descriptive Qualities (PDQ) system introduced
in <a href="GAME#deadinside">Dead Inside</a>.
Ninjas and Superspies
Eric Wujcik
1988
Palladium Books
A cinematic modern action/adventure game, using a variant of the
<a href="GAME#palladiumfantasy">Palladium System</a>.
Most of the book is dedicated to combat of one form or another,
especially martial arts.
Nobilis
R. Sean Borgstrom
1999
Plainlabel / Pharos
2nd
2002
Hogshead Games
3rd
2011
EOS Press
A game of theological conflict, where the characters are Powers
each set to defend some aspect of reality (like Joy, or Duels, or
Calenders Days, etc.). They are fighting "Excrucians" who are
trying to destroy all of the larger reality, of which our world
is only a small part. It uses a diceless system where players
spend "miracle points" to accomplish their actions. The second
edition greatly expands the text with examples of play and GM
advice.
Noctum
Mischa L. Thomas
2005
self-published
A Swedish-language modern horror game similar to the earlier game Kult.
cf. <a href="http://www.ad-noctum.com/">
http://www.ad-noctum.com/</a>.
No Dice - Pure Role Playing
Leo Stableford
Suzanne Jordan
2009
No Dice RPG Team
248
A universal minimalist RPG, concentrating on advice for players and GM.
The base mechanic uses playing cards - drawing from a deck against a
difficulty from 1 to 10 set by the GM. A Jack is an automatic failure;
a Queen is an automatic success; a King is kept by the player to be
traded in for a future redraw.
noir
Jason Inglert
Jack Norris
Curtis Werner
1997
Archon Gaming Inc.
A film noir RPG (i.e. pulp-era mystery and intrigue). It uses a
free point-build character creation, with an additive dice pool
resolution (roll d6's equal to trait plus skill and total them vs
difficulty). The combat system is fairly involved.
No Press Anthology
Luke Crane
Alexander Cherry
Michael S. Miller
Kirt Dankmyer
Daniel Solis
Matt Machell
Jeffrey Schecter
Mike Holmes
Ben Lehman
2004
Key 20 Publishing
A collection of eight short roleplaying games published as a single
volume, edited by Luke Crane. "Snowball", by Alexander Cherry,
is a variant of the free RPG "The Pool" which works backwards in
time from a strong image. "Discernment", by Michael S. Miller,
is an RPG where the players puts someone in differing situations
in order to discern the overall soul quality of the one being
examined. "Pretender", by Kirt Dankmyer, is fantasy game about
supernatural beings hidden as normal people in the 1980s.
"WTF", by Daniel Solis, is a surreal game with many GMs and only
one player. "The Agency", by Matt Machell, is about characters
fighting the supernatural in the 1960s. "Pagoda", by Jeffrey
Schecter, is a game of Chinese wuxia (kung fu fantasy).
"Cell Gamma", by Mike Holmes, is a game where the PCs start out
in prison cells, with no memory. (The rules are GM-only.)
"Over the Bar", by Ben Lehman, is a combined RPG and drinking game.
Norwegian Style
Erlend Sand Bruer
Tor Kjetil Edland
Arvid Falch
Ole Peder Giæver
Martin Gudmundsen
Matthijs Holter
Magnus Jakobsson
Håken Lid
Lasse Lundin
Anders Nygaard
Tomas HV Mørkrid
Erling Rognli
Margrete Somerville
Øyvind Stengrundet
Even Tømte
Rune Valle
2009
self-published
A collection of 17 short role-playing games by Norwegian designers. They vary in length, form and content from 15-minute "game poems" to year-long campaigns, from GM-less freeform to competitive resource management games, from light-hearted fantasy slapstick to grimly realistic stories of patricide.
Noumenon
Caias Ward
Chris Welsh
Darren Maclennan
Darwin Leary
Jens Rushing
Josh Benton
Khairul Hisham
Lee Foster
Monica Valentinelli
Nathan Hill
Nick Bousfield
Robert Hansen
Thomas Eliot
2006
Abstract Nova Entertainment
A strange fantasy role-playing game of mystery and abstraction.
Players assume the roles of the Sarcophagi -- strange insect-like
creatures trapped within the Silhouette Rouge, who encounter bizarre
entities and explore strange locations. It uses a domino-based task
resolution system that enables players to build upon each other's
successes, emphasizing player cooperation.
Nova
Daniel Schuler
1997
self-published
A German-language sci-fi RPG, set at the end of the 27th
century. It is set in a vast galactic set of empires both human
and alien. The system is similar to <a href="GAME#dasschwarzeauge">
Das Schwarze Auge</a>. cf. the
<a href="http://www.nova-rpg.de">official website</a>.
Novus Fantasy Roleplaying Game
Tim Dugger
2012
Firehawk Games
128
A fantasy RPG, set in an original fantasy world on the large island
of Tyrlon. Originally inhabited by semi-barbarian Halflings and
a peaceful spider-folk, it began being colonized a hundred years
ago by other races. The game includes six races (Human, Elves,
Dwarves, Halflings, Half-Elf and Half-Orc) and eight classes
(including Archer, Fighter, Martial Artist, Minstrel, and
Dual Mage). Resolution uses an open-ended 2d10 roll. There are
Fate Points that modify resolution, and combat uses Action Points.
Now Playing: Roleplaying the World of Television
Bradford Younie
2004
Carnivore Games
A universal system for roleplaying which adapts from a television
series, or just emulates the style. The mechanics are a variant
of <a href="GAME#fudge">Fudge</a>. The core rulebook
includes a sample series (the "Foundation for Paranormal Investigation")
and a sample episode.
Nylon Angel
Cary Lenehan
2006
White Mice Games
A cyberpunk role-playing game based on the books by Marianne de Pierres.
It is set in a near-future cyberpunk Australia.
Obsidian: The Age of Judgement
Micah Skaritka
Dav Harnish
Frank Nolan
1999
Apophis
2nd
2001
A mystic post-daemonic-apocalypse science-fantasy RPG, set in the
year 2299, after the manifestation of Hell upon the Earth Plane
in 2029. It is set within the "Zone", a massive monolithic structure
housing the remains of Humanity. They are threatened by "Daemons"
from outside which feed on sin, and sympathetic "Kultist" within.
Characters have the option to play heavenly characters imbued
by the Divinity, daemonic characters who serve the daemon hordes,
or neutral characters that serve only themselves or the
megacorporations within the Zone. It uses a skill-based dice-pool
system: total (attribute + skill) d6's vs. difficulty.
octaNe
Jared A. Sorensen
2002
Memento Mori Theatricks
A post-apocalyptic RPG set amidst "trash-culture" America.
It uses a dramatic system based around Plot Points, though it also
uses die rolls. There is one supplement, "Against the Reich", which
adapts the game for two-fisted pulp serials fighting Hitler,
including 30 new character Roles.
Odysseus
Marshall Rose
1980
FGU
A fantasy RPG set in an indeterminate period of ancient Greece.
Includes brief rules for warships and naval rule.
Oem Prime
unknown
1997
Omnimarcus
A fantasy RPG system. The system uses the special icon-marked
12-sided dice ("Success Dice", "Battle Dice", and "Body Dice")
that it uses.
The Official Superhero Adventure Game
Brian Phillips
1981
self-published
A generic superhero RPG, focusing mainly on combat.
Of Gods and Men
Jeffrey Konkol
1997
Non-Sequitor Productions
An epic fantasy RPG. The system is level-based with some skill
templates and only human characters. During character creation,
the player draws three divinity cards with the "divine power"
their character has (Skill Gain, Flight, etc.). Character creation
uses random-roll attributes (take 5 highest of 7d10 for each of six
attributes) and point-bought skills.
Og: The Role-Playing Game
Aldo Ghiozzi
1995
Wingnut Games
2nd
2000
Robin D. Laws
Unearthed
2007
A humorous beer-and-pretzels mini-RPG about cavemen vs dinosaurs.
Players choose 1 of 5 types of cavemen: strong caveman, smart
caveman, fast caveman, hitting caveman, or healthy caveman.
The twist is that players are limited to a 17 word vocabulary at
all times: you, me, rock, water, fire, tree, hair, bang, sleep,
smelly, small, cave, food, thing, big, sun, and go.
OGL Ancients
Adrian Bott
2004
Mongoose Publishing
A game covering the broad genre of ancient history and legend,
focusing on the Egyptians and Greeks before the rise of the
Roman Empire. It uses a variant of the D20 System from third edition
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a> and
<a href="GAME#d20modern">D20 Modern</a>. It is,
however, a complete core rulebook released using
Wizards of the Coast's Open Gaming License (OGL).
OGL Cybernet - Cyberpunk Roleplaying
August Hahn
2003
Mongoose Publishing
A game covering the broad genre of cyberpunk and netrunning,
using a variant of the D20 System from third edition
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a> and
<a href="GAME#d20modern">D20 Modern</a>. It is,
however, a complete core rulebook released using
Wizards of the Coast's Open Gaming License (OGL).
OGL Horror
Gareth Hanrahan
2003
Mongoose Publishing
A game covering the broad genre of horror, using a variant of the
D20 System of third edition
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a> and
<a href="GAME#d20modern">D20 Modern</a>. It is,
however, a complete core rulebook released using
Wizards of the Coast's Open Gaming License (OGL).
OGL Steampunk
Alejandro Melchor
2004
Mongoose Publishing
A game covering the broad genre of steam-age science fiction,
using a variant of the D20 System of third edition
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a> and
<a href="GAME#d20modern">D20 Modern</a>. It is,
however, a complete core rulebook released using
Wizards of the Coast's Open Gaming License (OGL).
OGL Wild West
Gareth Hanrahan
2004
Mongoose Publishing
A game covering the broad genre of wild west action, using a variant
of the D20 System of third edition
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a> and
<a href="GAME#d20modern">D20 Modern</a>. It is,
however, a complete core rulebook released using
Wizards of the Coast's Open Gaming License (OGL).
Okahoshin
unknown
unknown
unknown
A Japanese-language fantasy RPG, set in mythic China (Oka).
Roughly translated: "Immortals of the Middle Kingdom". The PC's
are immortals who fight various monsters and demons. Character
creation is random-roll attributes and class-based special
abilities.
Oko Yrrhedesa
Andrzej Sapkowski
1995
Wydawnictwo MAG
A Polish-language fantasy RPG, written by a best-selling fantasy
writer. The title translates as "Eye of Yrrhedes".
The rules were originally a magazine article, then later
published as a book (in 1995). The system is simple and aimed
at beginning players.
Omnifray
Matt West
2008
Omnifray
A fantasy genre RPG set in an original quasi-medieval fantasy world
called the Enshrouded Lands. Outwardly the world is populated only
by ordinary humans and animals - but there are many magical secrets.
Resolution uses a universal table, that gives percentile chances
when comparing opposing ability scores. Other aspects of the game
use a full range of polyhedral dice. Character abilities are split
between ordinary traits and feats that require energy points of a
particular type such as physical energy, concentration energy,
or fate points. Character creation is limited point-based, using
character generation points for your attributes and traits, and
versatility points for feats.
Omnigon
Dennis Craig
Scott Groves
Alan P. Widtmann
Glenn Zaroski
1989
Omnigon Games Inc.
A sci-fi RPG system. It uses a simple class-based system with
six classes: warrior, rogue, infiltrator, scout, psionicist, and
alpha knight (semi-psionic warrior).
Once Upon a Time in the West
Beck
Spencer
1978
Tabletop Games
A western-genre skirmish combat game which came in 3 booklets,
which was officially developed into an RPG with the fourth
booklet ("Return of OUATITW").
One Can Have Her
Jonas Ferry
2007
self-published
56
A game inspired by film noir, designed for play in a single evening
for a GM and two or more players. Each character is guilty of a
crime, and they are competing to get what they want done before
their time is up. It uses a resolution system based on playing
cards, where hands of cards are played off against each other one
at a time. Character creation begins picking one of 10 character
types (including Politician, War veteran, Journalist, Gangster) and
one of 10 attributes (including Paranoid, Depressed, Idealistic,
Hardboiled). The player then decides upon their character's life
goal (what they hope to achieve before they die). The GM then
chooses who each character's enemy is, and introduces the femme
fatale, the one woman each player wants, but only one can have.
The One Ring: Adventures over the Edge of the Wild
Francesco Nepitello
Marco Maggi
Amado Angulo
Dominic McDowall-Thomas
2011
Cubicle 7 Entertainment Limited
336
A fantasy roleplaying game set in the world of Middle Earth by
J.R.R. Tolkien five years after the events narrated in The Hobbit
in the area of Wilderland (the region visited by Bilbo in his journey
to the Lonely Mountain). Resolution is by 1d12 (the Feat Die) with
1d6 for each level of skill. Success is measured by the number of
sixes rolled. Characters have 3 attributes (Body, Heart and Wits) -
each with six associated skills for a total of 18 skills. There
are also Valor and Wisdom social stats along with Hope points (used
for extra dice for rolls along with other effects) and Corruption
(used for the influence of evil). The set comes with an 192 page
Adventurer's Book and 144 page Loremaster's Book.
On Her Majesty's Arcane Service
clash bowley
2009
Flying Mice LLC
Precis Intermedia Games
234
A historical fantasy RPG, set in the reign of Queen Elizabeth I in
16th century England. The players characters are part of Her Majesty's
Arcane Service, a secret force headed by John Dee to protect England
from mystical attack. It uses a dice pool system, the StarPool dice
mechanic, also used in later editions of the
<a href="GAME#starcluster">Starcluster</a> RPG. The game
includes rules for creating a branch of the service, including capital,
base, type, and various resources. Character creation is via a lifepath
system, with various options including Half-angel, Changeling, Hunter,
Esotericist, Magus, Templar, Savant, Warlock, and Minstrel. There are
magic rules similar to those in
<a href="GAME#bloodgames">Blood Games II</a>.
On Mighty Thews
Simon Carryer
2011
Simon Carryer Games
51
A sword and sorcery fantasy game based on Robert E. Howard's Conan stories.
It uses a simple scene-based system using step-die resolution. Character
creation starts by assigning a d4, d8, and d12 to three base attributes -
Warrior, Sorcerer, and Explorer. Players then choose two freeform
attributes assigned a d6 and a d10 as well as a single-word d20 trait.
After character creation, players and GM collectively create the setting
by drawing a map and marking it with each character's d20 trait and
adding features related to these. Play proceeds by scenes that the
GM creates and the players add details to. Resolution is by taking
the highest result of rolling all dice that apply, compared to a
difficulty (default 4) or opposed roll. Foregoing a d20 roll can
earn the player a reroll token.
On Stage!
Luca Giuliano
1995
DaS Productions
An Italian-language acting game. The original game assumes that
the players take on the role of the main characters in various
Shakespeare plays. It uses cards to determine events. The basic
rules include a scenario based on Hamlet. Supplements and other
works have extended it to other genres. Official supplements
include "Sogno di una notte di mezza estate" (Shakespeare's
A Midsummer Night's Dream); "Biancaneve e i tre porcellini"
("Snow White and the Three Little Pigs") a mixing of traditional
fairy tales); "Fagioli dollari e polvere da sparo"
("Beans, dollars and gunpowder") about Sergio Leone's Western
movies; and "On Stage! Epico" about King Arthur's knights.
Open Core Role Playing System
Christopher Helton
Jamie Borg
Ewen Cluney
Richard Gazley
Tim Huntley
Jonathan M. Thompson
2004
Battlefield Press
190
An open-license system based on the D20 System used by 3rd edition
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a>.
It eliminates class mechanics, replacing it with open point-based
character generation. Action resolution uses 3d6 + Attribute + Skill
vs. target number.
Opening the Dark
Malcolm Sheppard
2007
Mob United Media
27
A modern dark fantasy/horror RPG, closely based on White Wolf's
<a href="GAME#worldofdarkness">World of Darkness</a>
games, with the core mechanics released under an open gaming license.
The player characters may be investigators of dark mysteries,
or monsters at the heart of the secrets. The basic game includes
guidelines for set powers, freeform magic and spirits.
It uses a dice pool system, rolling d10s equal to attribute
plus skill, where every result from 7 to 9 is one success, and
every result of 10 is two successes. Total successes are compared
to difficulty.
OpenQuest: D100 Gaming Made Easy
Newt Newport
2009
D101 Games
170
"Con-Quest"
2010
180
A generic fantasy role-playing game, based on Mongoose Games' RuneQuest
SRD with ideas from previous editions of Chaosium's RuneQuest and
Stormbringer 5th. Magic is divided into Battle Magic, Divine Magic,
and Sorcery. The basic game includes a sample setting ("The Empire
of Gatan") and a sample adventure ("The Road Less Travelled").
The content is entirely open gaming content released under Wizards
of the Coast's Open Gaming License.
Open Versatile Anime RPG
Clay Gardner
2005
Wise Turtle Publishing
128
A universal RPG which aims at broadly emulating Japanese anime
genres. It uses a rules-lite dice pool system, the "Richochet"
system. Character creation is by simply picking a number of
freeform traits and flaws, rated numerically. For action
resolution, you roll a number of d6s based on which freeform
traits apply to an action. You add together doubles or take
the highest die and compare to a GM-set difficulty number.
Opera RPG 'Beholders Lost in Alternative Realities'
Leonardo Andrade
Rogério Godoy
2004
Comic Store Comercial Ltda
208
A Portuguese-language universal system, billed as "The Ultimate
Guide to RPG Worlds Creation". There is also an English-language
shareware version and upcoming print version. Action resolution
is roll under stat on 2d6, or stat + 2d6 for contests. Character
creation is open point-bought. The basic game includes world-building
system, martial arts, psychic powers, magic, and superpowers rules.
Operation: Fallen Reich
Mikael Reidal
2009
Fallen Publishing
128
A historical occult mystery game - subtitled
"Can Evil Be Stopped In Time For Tea?" - where the player characters
are ordinary but colorful British citizens who come to fight the
strange forces behind the Nazi party on the eve of World War II.
These are supernatural creatures called the Fallen, who have plagued
mankind for millenia. The game uses a simple system with detailed
skills but no attributes. Resolution is by 1d20 + skill vs. difficulty.
Character creation in the full game is by a separate physical board
game (the Life Board). The player draws four cards from a custom
deck (Start Cards), each with a profession and a personality trait.
They select the profession from one card and take the personality
traits from the others. The profession defines a starting spot on
the Life Board, and the player then plays 16 rounds on the board,
rolling a die to move to different squares each time and collecting
a Destiny Card.
Oráculo
Joaquim Micó
1994
Joc Internacional
A Spanish-language RPG about mythic-age Greece. It uses a
simple rule system with roughly 20 pre-defined profession templates.
You roll from 1d4 to 2d6 depending on your profession and the task,
plus percentile special abilities. Combat is handled in one
roll, add attacker bonus and subtracting defender bonus to find
damage. It has several supplements.
Orbit
Jeff Diamond
1998
6-0 Games
225
A light-hearted spacefaring sci-fi RPG, including dungeon-like
labyrinth worlds. It uses a simple skill-based system, where
character creation is based on 1 of 8 professions. The
resolution is percentile based. Experience is based on creatures
killed and money acquired.
Ork!
Todd Miller
Chris Pramas
2000
Green Ronin Press
A satirical play-the-monsters RPG, where you play a murderous,
back-stabbing psychotic interested in naked, merciless power.
It uses a simple system rolling a number of dice (1-5) based on
skill and die type (d4-d20) based on attribute vs a number of
d6's based on difficulty (2d6-5d6).
Orkworld
John Wick
2000
Wicked Press
A fantasy genre RPG based around a hunter-gatherer race called
"Orks", set on the world of Ghurtha. The culture and background
of the Orks is heavily detailed. The system is a dice-pool
system, taking the highest of skill+attribute d6 -- except
multiples of the same number add +1 to the that number. e.g. A
roll of 1,1,2,3,5,5,5,6 would keep 5's for result of 5+1+1=7.
Also, a special rule for ties is that you compare <em>all</em> the
dice until the tie is resolved. Character creation is done by
the players collectively creating a household with a single pool
of points. Advancement is by managed fana (fame) points handled
by the group's tala (bard).
Orlando Furioso - Il gioco di ruolo dei Paladini di Re Carlo
Andrea Angiolino
Gianluca Meluzzi
1993
City Council of Rome
2nd
2002
Rose and Poison
48
An Italian-language fantasy RPG, based on the Italian poem of Ludovico
Ariosto. It uses a simple rule system intended for for new players.
The first edition was published by the City Council of Rome and
freely distributed to teachers and librarians for educational
purposes. The expanded second edition from Rose and Poison includes
a section on mythological monsters. Both editions are illustrated
with classical engravings by Gustav Doré (from circa 1800).
Orpheus
Bryan Armor
John Chambers
Genevieve Cogman
Richard Dansky
B. D. Flory
Harry Heckel IV
Ellen Kiley
James Kiley
Matthew McFarland
Dean Shomshak
C. A. Suleiman
2003
White Wolf
312
A modern horror game, where the PCs are ghosts (or Laments) who
are working for a company called the Orpheus Group. The company has
ghost employees who do various jobs ranging from occult investigations,
to spying, to assassination. It uses a variant of the Storyteller
system.
Orx: Nasty, Brutish, and Short
Ravenscrye Grey Daegmorgan
2003
Wild Hunt Studio
113
A darkly comedic fantasy game about playing orcs, creatures hated by
the gods and doomed to die. It uses a narration-based dice pool system.
Each orc has three attributes: Nasty (social), Brute (physical), and
Grok (mental). They also have a Fate stat, which starts at 1 and rises
as they choose to tempt fate. Players can roll extra dice on any roll,
but this raises their Fate stat, which is used to check if they die
when defeated. Character creation is by assigning a d6, d8, and d10
to the three stats, as well as picking three player-defined descriptors
such as "Fast-Talking" or "Distance Spitting Champion". Play is in
scenes, where the GM has a limited amount of opposition dice available
per scene.
Other Suns
Niall Shapero
1983
FGU
2nd
1989
shareware
A spacefaring sci-fi RPG, set in an interstellar empire (the
"L'Doran Hegemony") with 11 species of anthropomorphic animals.
Centuries ago, humans fought a devastating war with the Hegemony
and eventually lost, reducing Earth to ash. Now, scattered human
worlds (former colonies) have joined the Hegemony in
re-exploration and settling of the galaxy. It uses a percentile
skill-based system. Character creation has random-roll
attributes. cf. Ermine's
<a href="http://www.FurNation.com/Khromat/html/other_suns.html">
Other Suns Online page</a>.
Outfan. A Space Operetta
C. Piniol
J.P. Romeu
R. Mercadal
2002
Planeta-DeAgostini
A Spanish-language humorous starfaring RPG, which parodies the science
fiction from Jules Verne to "The Matrix". It includes an original
background with nine races and four star systems. The system is
percentile-based. Character creation uses a set of 20 generic
professions. cf. the
<a href="http://www.outfan.com/">
official web page</a>.
Outime
Marc W.D. Tyrrell
1983
Valhalla Simulation Games
A time-travel RPG for adventures on alternate Earths. The system
is similar to original <a href="GAME#traveller">Traveller</a>,
covering psionics.
Over the Edge
Jonathan Tweet
1992
Atlas Games
2nd
1997
A modern-day "psycho-surreal" RPG, set on a fictional island in
the Mediterranean where paranoid conspiracies, alternate
realities, and bizarre strangeness collide. It uses a minimalist
system where each character is described by 3 narratively-defined
traits and 1 fault. The number of dice you sum for a task
depends on which (if any) of your traits it falls under.
Oz Dark & Terrible
S. Alexander Gentry
2010
Emerald City Expeditions, LLC
Studio 2 Publishing
A fantasy RPG set in a dark variant on L. Frank Baum's Land of Oz
just prior to the first book. For example, the Tin Woodsman is a
retired member of the Wizard's oppressive secret police, while the
Cowardly Lion is an exile who refused to eat the hearts of humans
to gain lycanthropic powers. It uses a d10 dice pool system, where
players roll a number of d10s equal to the sum of traits, and add
their skill to the total. One die in the pool is always the Luck Die,
which is open-ended. Character creation is point-based, including
buying magic via ratings from 1 to 5 in various spheres (such as Fire,
Mind, or Life).
På eventyr i Vildmarken
Klaus Johansen
Paul Hartvigson
1986
Forlaget Stavnsager ApS
A Danish-language RPG of wilderness adventures. The title translates
as "Adventuring in the Wilderness". It assumes a generic realistic
setting (Earth or near-Earth fantasy). The basic game includes a set
of generic historical characters and a wilderness region complete
with hex-maps. It uses a simple system aimed at beginners.
Paladin
Clinton R. Nixon
2003
Anvilwerks
A fantasy RPG in which the PCs are holy warriors, fighting not
only against evil, but against the temptation to turn to hatred,
lust, fear, and anger and capture the power that evil can bring.
It is designed to be easily adapted to a variety of settings,
ranging from Shaolin monks to Jedi knights. Characters creation
is point-based, dividing 9 points among Flesh attributes, 6 among
Light attributes, and 3 among Dark attributes. In addition, there
are two freeform binary skills. It uses a simple narrative dice
pool system. Roll a number of d6s equal to attribute plus number
of applicable skills plus any animus points spent. Every 5 rolled
is one success; every 6 rolled is two successes.
Palimpseste
unknown
unknown
Paule et Mick Corp.
A French-language medieval fantasy RPG.
Palladium Fantasy Role Playing Game
Kevin Siembieda
Erick Wujcik
1983
Palladium Books
2nd
1990
3rd
1998
A traditional fantasy-genre game. It uses the "Palladium" system
(actually first introduced in
<a href="GAME#mechanoid">The Mechanoid Invasion</a>).
The system uses random-roll attributes and class-based character
creation, with advancement based on levels. Action resolution is
by d20 (combat and saving throws) or d100 (non-combat skills),
similar to AD&D. Differences are variety of percentile
skills (advanced based on level) and combat with separate attack
roll and parry roll.
Pandemonium! : Adventures in Tabloid World
Stephen Michael Sechi
Robin D. Laws
Joel M. Kaye
1993
MIB Productions
Atlas Games
A comedic modern RPG, set in a world where Elvis is alive,
aliens kidnap our women, and other tabloid reports are all true.
It uses a simple system of attribute + 1d10 + modifiers where 6+
is a success.
Pangea
Enrique Garrifo Ramos
2003
Ediciones Sombra
A Spanish-language prehistoric action RPG, set in a world where dozens
of prehistoric races fight to survive. The game system uses a
single 3d10 roll indicate check, sucess level, location and damage.
Pantheon and Other Games
Robin D. Laws
2000
Hogshead Games
A 24-page book containing 5 mini-RPGs, all by Robin D. Laws.
It uses a dice-and-counter story-telling system (the `Narrative
Cage-Match') for all 5. There is no GM, instead each player
can make up whatever events they like for their PC -- but other
players can challenge using a set of counters as stakes, then
resolved by a dice roll. Scores for each player are resolved by
scorecards pre-written for each of the 5 scenarios.
Panty Explosion: a psychic schoolgirl adventure game
Jake Richmond
Matt Schlotte
2006
Atarashi Games
Perfect
2011
A modern-day horror RPG about Japanese schoolgirls who secretly fight
demons, some of whom have psychic powers. Each character has "Godai"
stats based on five elements (Earth, Water, Fire, Air, and Void)
which which represent different ways of resolving conflicts. For
example, Fire is aggression and resolving issues with violence,
while Water is wit and social. Character creation is by setting
these traits, picking an agenda, another PC as Best Friend, and
another PC as Rival, then voting for most popular. A secret random
draw determines which PC is psychic. It uses a dice pool conflict
resolution system (using d6, d8, d10, and d12), where successes are
narrated by the Best Friend player, and failures are narrated by
the Rival player.
Parabellum
Martin Lindholm
1996
October Productions
A Swedish-language modern crime-thriller RPG.
Paranoia
Daniel Seth Gelber
Greg Costikyan
Eric Goldberg
Ken Rolston
1984
West End Games
2nd
1987
"5th"
Ed Stark
Greg Farshtey
1995
"XP"
Allen Varney
2004
Mongoose Publishing
256
A hilarious dark future comedy game, where characters are pawns
of an out-of-control Computer in a post-nuclear-apocalypse
complex. The atmosphere is on black comedy and slapstick, with
the notable feature that each character has 5 clone backups --
such that they can die multiple times (and they usually do).
1st edition used a percentile skill system with skill trees.
2nd edition completely revised this. The XP edition again
majorly revised the rules, eliminating attributes in favor
of six skill groups (Management, Stealth, Violence, Hardware,
Software, Wetware). Action resolution is roll under skill on
1d20, with chances modified by "Perversity Points" which are
spent before the roll to modify the chance.
Part-Time Gods
Eloy Lasanta
2011
Third Eye Games
212
An urban fantasy game where the player characters are humans who were
once mortal, but received the Spark that transformed them into minor
deities. Each god has a Dominion - i.e. what they are a god of - as
well as specialized skills within that subject, called Manifestations.
They also become connected to a territory that is influenced by the
Dominion. So a goddess of liquor would have a territory that developed
more alcoholics. The gods are divided into "Theologies" - widespread
groups sharing a purpose or theme, such as the Ascendants who want to
become as powerful as the old gods, or the Cult of the Saints who
believe they were sent from Heaven. They also form into local pantheons,
who have shared or overlapping territory. Resolution uses a simplified
variant of the "Dynamic Gaming System" from
from <a href="GAME#apocalypsepreventioninc">
Apocalypse Prevention, Inc.</a> by the same author.
The core mechanic is 1d20 + Attribute + Skill vs. a Target Number of
10, 20, 30, or 40. Characters creation is limited point-based,
including both human stats (25 points in six attributes and 25+IQ
points in skills) as well as godly stats.
Passages: Adventures Penned by Literary Giants
Justin D. Jacobson
Richard Farrese
2006
Blue Devil Games
A modern fantasy game based on the fiction works of the late Victorian
Era, including Carroll's Wonderland stories, Baum's Oz books,
Swift's "Gulliver's Travels", Doyle's Holmes stories, Kipling, Wells,
and more. The cover is a scene from "Alice in Wonderland", with
scenes from other famous works done for interior illustrations.
It uses a distant variant of the D20 System from 3rd edition
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a>.
There are no classes or levels. Rather, character creation is
template-based. All characters must choose one culture (Arab, Asian,
Easterner, frontiersman, native or Westerner) and one caste, their
social class (slave, servant, freeman, bourgeois, noble or royal).
Advancement is by "creative energy points", which are used to buy
new advantages. There is no combat bonus. Rather, there is a Combat
skill, with three sub-skills: Attack, Defend, and Initiative.
Damage is done by the difference between attack roll and defense roll,
modified by weapon and armor. It also includes "plot points" which
can be spent to control narration.
Pathfinder RPG
Beta
Jason Buhlman
2008
Paizo Publishing
1st
2009
A variant of the 3.5th edition of
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a>,
published under the Open Gaming License. It consolidated and
simplified skills and changes certain rules features such as
how favored class and class skills worked, but it is intended
to be compatible with supplements and adventures designed for
3.5th edition.
Pax Draconis
pre-release
Justin Dagna
2001
Technicraft Design
premiere
Justin Dagna
2003
A spacefaring science-fiction RPG, set in a galaxy where the
"Draconian Empire" is fighting a civil war with the
"People's Republic". There are three major race groups:
humans, the draconian races, and the treeber species (a diverse
group with variations like four arms, infrared sight and
under-water breathing). It uses a simple percentile
skill-based system.
Pelicar
Lewis Nicolls
1996
Pharaoh
A traditional fantasy-genre game, using a class and level-based
system with skills.
Pendragon
Greg Stafford
1985
Chaosium
3rd
1990
Chaosium
4th
1993
Chaosium
4th (Reprinted)
1999
Green Knight Publishing
5th
2005
White Wolf
A game of Arthurian romance, based on Malory's <u>L'Morte
d'Arthur</u> and similar sources. The PC's are knights who will
go on quests and journeys, but also engage in building families
and raising heirs. Campaigns may span generations. The mechanics
are roll 1d20 under (skill or attribute), using the roll as level of
success (i.e. "blackjack" method). Combat is a contest where only the
combatant with the higher level of success does damage. It uses a
detailed system of personality traits and passions, such as
Pride/Modesty and many others. Character creation is only knights
under the original edition, and magic was only done by NPCs. Under
the fourth edition, the options are expanded. The fifth edition
returns to more limited initial character generation, and starts in
the year 485 (during the reign of King Uther) rather than 531.
A Penny for My Thoughts
Paul Tevis
2009
Evil Hat Productions
A storytelling game in which players take the roles of amnesiac patients
undergoing therapy to recover their lost memories. Each play session is
organized as an individual therapy session at the fictional Orphic
Institute For Advanced Studies. It uses a set of diceless narrational
mechanics, where the players take turns role-playing the patient (known
as "the Traveller"). Turns and events are determined by a set of memory
triggers that the players write at the start of the session and randomly
draw, as well as an economy of pennies exchanged by certain rules.
Perfect
Joe McDonald
2006
Inciteful Entertainment
An alternate-reality crime game, set in a world akin to Victorian England
that is under oppressive rule. The PCs are criminals within this world
who strike out against the system.
Periphery: Science Fiction Roleplaying on the Edge
Gareth-Michael Skarka
1994
Epitaph Studios
A sci-fi RPG.
Perry Rhodan - Das SF-Rollenspiel
Detlef Wenzlik
1993
Agema
344
A German-language sci-fi RPG based on the popular sci-fi series
Perry Rhodan. It uses a complex rules system. The character
creation system is very detailed, and is focused on naval officers
of human origin. (This is an earlier game, ISBN 3925728252,
unrelated to the later game based on the Midgard system.)
Perry Rhodan - Das Rollenspiel
Alexander A. Huiskes
Jürgen E. Franke
2004
Verlag für Fantasy und SF-Spiele
344
A German-language sci-fi RPG based on the popular sci-fi series
Perry Rhodan. It uses a rules system based on the fantasy RPG,
<a href="GAME#midgard">Midgard</a>. (This is a new
game with the Perry Rhodan license, unrelated to the 1993 game
by Detlef Wenzlik.)
Persona
Kevin Munoz
1997
Tesarta
A universal, diceless RPG system. While diceless, it uses
detailed numerical attributes and skills which are compared to
find results. It also includes a powers system for designing
magic, psionics, superpowers, etc.
The Peryton Fantasy Role-Playing Game
Christina Lea
2006
Peryton Publishing
Revised
Christina Lea
2009
Peryton Publishing
A retro style fantasy game inspired by pulp fantasy source material
using a variant of the D20 System used by 3rd edition
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a>.
The system includes knacks and ability checks to let players get
started quickly and still evolve the character as it goes on.
Le Petit Peuple
unknown
unknown
Casus Belli / Excelsior Publications / Jeux Descartes
A French-language humorous fantasy RPG where PC's are fairies,
leprechauns, korrigans, and other elves.
Les Petits Hommes
Bruno Faidutti
unknown
self-published
A French-language modern-day fantasy RPG inspired by a popular
French comic book. The PC's are reduced to 1/10 of their
size and live in a high tech civilization, hidden from common
humans. The creator suggests playing in your own house using
Playmobil as Scale 1 figures.
Phantasy Conclave
unknown
1984
Phantasy Conclave
A medieval fantasy RPG, set in the world of "Arth", originally inhabited
by humans, halflings, elves, dwarves, and gnomes. To defeat a city-state
of conquering wizards, a magical conclave was created that prevents
technology from working - and also spawned the races of aerlings and
meren. Character creation is class-based, advancement is level-based.
The classes are healer, wizard, scout, and fighter. The core product
is a boxed set including three 20-page booklets, an 8-page gamemaster
guide, and ten dice. Illustrated by N. Taylor Blanchard.
Phase VII
Dennis Drew II
1982
Cheshire Games
A science fantasy mini-RPG (16 pages), set on a damaged
space station where characters try to fight monsters and collect
treasure.
Phoenae: The Fierce Joy of Being Alive
unknown
unknown, pre-1990
Ian Press
A fantasy RPG set on an alien world whose inhabitants are a mix of
anthropomorphic felines and various human races (who are somewhat
elfin in appearance). In this world, ancient peoples ascended to
become angels and demons. Now a new set of races have been created
by a god to try again. The PC's are members of a the last faction
of their race whose memory was wiped out.
Phoenix Command
Barry Nakazono
David McKenzie
1986
Leading Edge
2nd
1987
3rd
1989
4th
1991
An ultra-complex, ultra-realistic combat system and RPG of
modern-day military combat.
Pie Shop
Mr. Toad
2004
Corone Design
52
A horror roleplaying game where the player characters are psychopathic
serial killers who were captured and recruited by men in black while
in prison. The men in black released them on the condition that they
would kill specified targets when contacted.
Piltrufos: el juego de rol piltrufantemente piltrufero
Jorge Martinez Etchegoyen
2001
La Cocoguawa
2nd
Jorge Martinez Etchegoyen
Miguel Garcia Fernandez
Carlos Sanchez Padial
2002
A humorous Spanish-language RPG of playing "pitufos" - blue-skinned
little fairies in a take-off of the Smurfs cartoon (Belgian cartoonist
Peyo). While always tongue-in-cheek, the game outlines three kinds of
play: mode pitufos ("for kind people"), mode piltrufos ("more hard"), and
dark side piltrufos ("for bad people").
Pirates: The Great Adventure Game
Matt deMille
2001
New Dimension Games
140
Revised
2003
A cinematic pirate action RPG, based on an amalgam of classic pirate
eras and movies. Action resolution uses 1d12. Character creation is
class-based, with level-based advancement. In addition to traditional
experience, there are reward systems for fame, fear, and privateering
ranks and titles.
Pirates and Plunder
Michael S. Matheny
1982
Yaquinto
A historical pirate/swashbuckling RPG set in the Carribean, aimed at
beginning players. Published as a bosed set with 3 booklets: players
book, GM book, and sample adventures.
The Pirates of Dark Water
Lee Agosta
Jasper K. Cummings
1994
Mindgames, Inc.
A fantasy-genre role-playing game based on the Hanna Barbara animated
television series of the same name. It is set on the fantasy world
of Mer, which is dominated by seas but being devastated by the strange
"dark water" substance which is oozing from the fissure where magical
treasures were stolen. Pirates and others roam the seas in ships that
can both sail and fly. The basic game includes a 64-page "World Book"
containing background information, locations, and character creation
rules, plus 105 3-hole punched sheets detailing the creatures of Mer
and a 31 3/4" x 22" color map of Mer.
Pirates of the Spanish Main
Paul Wade-Williams
2007
Pinnacle Entertainment Group
256
A game of romance and adventure on the high seas based on the WizKids
collectable strategy game Pirates of the Spanish Main and Pirates of
the Crimson Coast. It is set in a nebulous time around the early 18th
century. It is a standalone game system based on the
<a href="GAME#savageworlds">Savage Worlds</a> rules
system, adding a ship combat system.
Pixie
Geoff Tuffli
1992
New World Games
20
2nd
Geoff Tuffli
2005
Jubal Online Games, Inc.
150
A modern fantasy RPG where the PC's are pixies who want to
take over modern-day human homes -- but humans (and their pets)
see the pixies as bats, rats and pests. Action resolution is
by rolling 2d6 under stat. Character generation is mostly
random with some skill selection. The first edition is
only 20 pages. The second edition is 150 pages and includes
a dozen different types of fey folk including sprites,
spriggans, goblins and trolls. The 2nd edition system is
pure talent-based, so instead of having separate attributes,
skills and spells, everything is simply a talent.
Plüsch, Power, und Plunder
Ralf Sandfuchs
Steffen Schütte
Thomas Finn
1991
Games-In Verlag
30
2nd
1995
A humorous German-language RPG where you play stuffed animals who
have strangely come to life, and have adventures in the world of
humans. There were a number of adventures and supplements,
including: "Cyberplunder", "Keep the Secret", "Plüsch,
Drugs, & Rock'n'Roll", "Der Woolminator", "Baerotech",
"20th Century Plunder", "Playbä", "Popcorn, Plüsch
& Petticoats", "Big Shop Tango", and
"Gamemaster Supply Package". After the 2nd edition, the
rights to the game were bought by Phase Publishing.
Pocket Universe
Manda
Jeff Dee
2001
Unigames
A 16-page mini-RPG with complete rules. Action resolution
is by rolling 2d10 under either attribute or skill -- where
doubles indicates either critical success (on a success) or
critical failure (on a failure). There are four attributes,
which range from 7 to 14 for humans: PHYS, DEFT, INTL, WILL.
Skills add to the Attribute score the skill is based on.
Pocket Warrior
Guy McLimore
Greg Poehlein
1997
Plaid Rabbit
This is a simple generic RPG using a skill-based system. There
are 4 attributes: Strength, Coordination, Intelligence, and
Health. Actions are resolved by rolling 2d10 under skill.
Character creation is limited point-based.
Point Blank
Eoin Connolly
Rob Brennan
Eric Nolan
unknown, post-1994
Wasteland
A cinematic modern action RPG, emulating over-the-top action
films in the style of John Woo. Characters gain Honour points
for performing cinematic stunts and saying good one-liners, which
can be used to increase skills and heal injuries.
Poison'd: a pirate rpg
Vincent Baker
2007
Lumpley Games
An RPG about pirates, focusing on the dark and harsh life of pirates.
It is set in 1701, following the assassination of Captain Brimstone Jack
by his cook under the King's orders. It uses an abstract dice pool
system, where players roll a number of six-sided dice equal to stat,
and results of 4,5 or 6 are considered successes. Combat is categorized
in four different ways for personal combat (fist, knife, sword and gun)
and ship combat (pursuit, ranged, guns, and boarding). Combat has options
for escalation and increased consequences. In character generation,
players answer a series of questions by choosing from lists of options,
which generates a small collection of statistics for sins, suffering,
ambitions and gear. It also has campaign rules for Opportunities
(including Elections, Prizes, Leisure, Betrayal and Urgent Considerations)
that have mechanical consequences.
Pokemon Jr. Adventure Game
Bill Slavicsek
Stan!
1999
Wizards of the Coast
A mini-RPG for young children, based on the Pokemon ("pocket
monster") video and card games. Each pokemon has a card which
lists its stats: attack roll, damage, and hit points - plus a
power if its attack succeeds. Attacks are made by rolling 1d6 vs
attack roll. The 60-page pocket-sized booklet mostly consists of
16 pre-made scenarios to play. cf. the
<a href="http://www.wizards.com/pokemon/jradventure.asp">
official website</a>.
Pokéthulhu
S. John Ross
2000
Squishy Brain Games
2nd
S. John Ross
2001
Dork Storm Press
A humorous RPG which parodies both the Pokemon game/television show
and Lovecraft's Cthuhlhu. The player characters are children called
Cultists, each owning their own Pokéulhu which they must train
and battle with while wandering the land of the dead. It uses a
minimal dice-pool system where players roll a number of dice (D12s)
dependent on difficulty (from 1 to 3). The roll is a success if one
die is equal to or less than the relevant stat. There are special
rules for Pokéthulhu battles, where 1 of 4 attacks are chosen.
Character creation uses only 6 stats.
Polaris
Philippe Tessier
1997
Halloween Concepts
A French-language post-apocalyptic RPG where humanity has migrated
to live undersea after a nuclear war has laid waste to the
surface world.
Polaris: Chivalric tragedy at the utmost north
Ben Lehman
2005
Tao Games
A mythic fantasy game about knights of the Stars fighting the Mistaken demons of the Sun. It is designed for four players who split the gamemastering duties depending on which player character is spotlighted. A given player has a "new moon" (the player on his right, who controls personal and emotional ties), a "full moon" (the player on his left, who controls societal and hierarchical ties), and a "mistaken" (the player across from him, who controls enemies and has more control over conflict and story). As the players switch off spotlight, the roles switch around. There are also twelve "key phrases" that govern timing and decision-making. To start a scene, you begin with "And so it was"; if you object to a development, you interject "But only if" or "You ask far too much" (at which point you must negotiate the story, or sacrifice a Theme on your character sheet), and end with "And that was how it happened." When it is time for another character, you say "But hope was not yet lost, for [the next character] still heard the song of the stars" and start again.
Portal
Olof Lindqvist
2005
Olof Lindqvist Games
A Swedish-language modern fantasy RPG set in an alternate Earth where
through the ages mages have been opening portals to other dimensions
and letting in strange creatures. The characters are members of a
secret organization trying to stop these forces of darkness.
Power Grrrl
Michael Fiegel
2004
aethereal FORGE
A superhero RPG in the style of an anime cartoon, where the PCs
are superpowered teenagers who have to manage both fighting
supervillains and surviving high school. It uses a rules-lite
universal system (the "POW!" system) available separately.
Action resolution is by attribute + 2d6 vs difficulty. Character
creation is point-based, spent on powers and six attributes:
Agility, Brawn, Cognition, Damage, Energy, and Fellowship (ABCDEF).
There are "specials" which include advantages, powers, and
other things rather than skills.
Powers and Perils
Richard Snider
1983
Avalon Hill
A traditional fantasy-genre RPG, which includes magic and monsters. There
is no world background in the core boxed set, but a separate boxed set
called "Perilous Lands" includes a detailed fantasy world. The rule
system has a complex and math-heavy system which uses percentile rolls
under skill times multiplier, or in combat on a universal chart.
Character creation is random-roll attributes and random ads/disads,
with point-bought skills. Advancement is partly level-based (separate
Combat and Magic levels) and partly skill-based (improving skills
with experience).
Praedor
Ville Vuorela
Petri Hiltunen
2000
Burger
A Finnish-language fantasy RPG, based on a series of fantasy comics
by Petri Hiltunen. The game takes place in the ancient land of
Jaconia, now a fragment of living land surrounded by cursed ruins
of an ancient superculture, Borvaria. Jaconia consists of about a
dozen kingdoms or city-states, as well as large tracts of unclaimed
land inhabited by barbarian tribes. Adventurers are "praedors",
honourless adventurers who brave the dangers of the Cursed Lands
for loot and magical treasures, only to find that the decadent
courts and shadowy alleys of Jaconia can be even more dangerous.
Les Prédateurs
Philippe Chouvel
Olivier Gasnier
Christophe Guy
1990
Flamberge
A French-language modern-day horror RPG, where the PC's are
a vampire's caravan trying to survive against fanatical vampires
hunters' attacks. It uses a d12-based system. Characters are
random rolled, with a very few powers, advantages and skills.
Premiers-Áges
Arthur Agabek
Georges Favraud
Guillaume Cochard
2000
Athal
A French-language medieval fantasy RPG, set in the
"World of Dragons". It has a set of 9 non-traditional races.
Character creation is both class-based and point-based.
It has 9 or 10 supplements.
Pribehy Imperia
Kryštof Ferenc
Jonaáš Ferenc
2009
MYTAGO
A Czech-language fantasy/steampunk RPG set in Victorian England, whose
title translates as "Stories of the Empire". It uses a variant of the
FATE system (Fantastic Adventures in Tabletop Entertainment) from
<a href="GAME#spiritofthecentury">Spirit of the Century</a>.
The Price of Freedom
Greg Costikyan
1986
West End Games
A survivalist game of freedom fighters in Soviet-occupied
America. The system uses d20 rolled against stats and skills
(rated 1-20), with semi-complex combat using a hexmap and
counters. Character creation is based on occupation, which
determines your skills. Character background includes filling
out Soviet identity papers. The first adventure has the Soviets
landing in your city and how you react to it.
Prime Directive
Timothy D. Olsen
Mark Costello
1993
Task Force Games
This is a Star Trek RPG, based on an obscure independent license of
the original and animated television series, derived from the first
technical manual. Its vision of the Star Trek universe is much more
militaristic than others, used in Star Fleet Battles and other wargames.
The player characters are elite commando teams (known as "Prime Teams"
in the Federation) dropped by starships to deal with problems on planets
or stations. It uses an open-ended dice pool system, with an open-ended
roll of attribute + skill d6s. The highest result is compared to the
"tricode" for that task, three numbers indicating thresholds required
for marginal, normal, and critical success. Multiple lesser rolls can
take precedence over the highest roll.
Primetime Adventures: a game of television melodrama
Matt Wilson
2003
Dog-eared Design
76
A game of television melodrama, intended to simulate series
like Alias, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, and Six Feet Under.
It uses a simple dice pool system to resolve conflicts, where
players roll a number of d10s equal to "Screen Presence" for the
episode (which varies from 4 to 6), plus possible dice added for
spending "Fan Mail" points. Over a "season" of nine episodes,
each PC gets to designate certain episodes as their focus episodes.
Character creation is by designating an Issue, a track of Screen
Presence, and several freeform binary traits.
Primeval Role-playing Game
Gareth Ryder-Hanrahan
2012
Cubicle 7 Entertainment Limited
A sci-fi RPG based on the British television show by Impossible Pictures, where Anomalies are connecting
the modern-day present to distant times and places. The player characters are part of a team who
contain threats from the Anomalies (like prehistoric dinosaurs and creatures from the future), and
preserve the timeline. It uses a version of the "Vortex system" that first appeared in
<a href="GAME#doctorwho_cubicle7">Doctor Who: Adventures in Time and Space</a> (2009).
Resolution is by adding attribute + skill + 2d6 versus difficulty - possibly modified by spending
Story Points. Character creation is point-based, setting 6 attributes (Awareness, Coordination,
Ingenuity, Presence, Resolve, and Strength) along with 12 skills and various traits.
Primitive
Kevin Allen Jr.
2006
Kevin Allen Jr Design
A prehistoric caveman game, pitched as "Build a tribe, fight
bloodthirsty dinosaurs, and discover untold mysteries in a game that
features easy to follow rules, a uniquely simple turn based combat
resolution syste, and character generation that focuses on group
social dynamics".
The Prince's Kingdom
Clinton Nixon
2006
CRN Games
A fantasy game aimed at children, set in the archipelago kingdom of
Islandia. The PCs are a group of young princes who wander from island
to island within their father's kingdom, solving problems. It uses
a dice pool system, a simplified version of the rules from
<a href="GAME#dogsinthevineyard">Dogs in the Vineyard</a>.
The Princess Game
Colin Fredericks
2007
Valent Games
180
A rules-lite, GM-less RPG where four players each take on an aspect of
a magical girl's personality: Love, Imagination, Curiosity, and Fear.
The girl is the only real person in the world, who creates things with
her imagination -- thus the players divide the GM's duties between
them. The Imagination player makes the world and describes the people
and places that inhabit it, setting scenes and introducing
characters. Love drives the girl to help people, defining objectives
for the girl. Curiosity makes the girl want to look around and
discover stuff, and the player can introduce new elements into the
game. Fear makes the girl choose different paths and look for
alternate options.
Prince Valiant
Greg Stafford
William Dunn
Lynn Willis
1989
Chaosium
An Arthurian game by Greg Stafford (author of
<a href="GAME#pendragon">Pendragon</a>). This is aimed at
beginners with an extremely simple system using coin tosses.
Each character has only two attributes, and throws a number of
coins equal to the stat for action resolution.
Principia Malefex
Alison Whetton
Ruari Armstrong
M. Retallack
1997
Principia Malefex
A dark psychological horror RPG, where the horror comes from what
the human characters do to each other. There are few monsters
(and the characters won't often run into them), there is little
or no organised or identifiable opposition, and the characters
often will not know whose side they are actually on. The system
uses roll-under-skill on d20 and d200. Character generation is
random-roll base attributes (modified by career choice), and
point-bought skills and bonuses.
Privateers and Gentlemen
Jon Williams
1983
FGU
Boxed set of three books: 40, 32, and 32 pages
A combined tactical miniatures rules and RPG, for Napoleonic-era
naval warfare -- especially the British navy. It includes personal
and naval combat rules. It uses a skill-based percentile system.
Privateers & Pirates
Jonathan Clarke
2005
FJ Gaming
84
A historical RPG set in the Golden Age of Piracy (late 17th century) or
the Age of Sail (mid-18th to early 19th century). The PCs are pirates
or privateers, crewing a vessel trying to get rich. It uses a simple
percentile system of roll over difficulty, with binary traits.
If you have a trait, then you may switch the tens and ones dice in
the percentile roll.
Private Eye: Detektiv-Rollenspiel im Viktorianischen England
Jan Christoph Steines
Frank Bezner
1990
B&B Productions
2nd
1991
128
3rd
1993
100
A German-language crime-story RPG, set in historical Victorian
England (1880 to 1900). The subtitle translates as "Detective
Role-playing in Victorian England". It uses a percentile
skill-based system, with non-percentile rolls only for damage
and hit points. Character creation includes six attributes, and
a selection from a small set of professions including solicitor,
policeman, journalist, and private detective. The core book
includes an extensive introduction to Victorian society in
general and London in particular. There is also a twenty page
treatise on Victorian criminology, including advances during the
period including fingerprinting, forensic chemistry, and ballistics.
There were at least five adventures: Abenteuer 1 "Eine tdliche Wette"
(A Deadly Bet), Abenteuer 2/3 "Der Schrecken von Randall Castle/
Der Millionencoup" (The Horror of Randall Castle/The Million Pounds
Heist), Abenteuer 4 "Der doppelte Biber" (The Double Beaver),
Abenteuer 5 "Auge um Auge" (An Eye for an Eye).
Project A-Ko RPG
Jimmy Mah
1995
Dream Pod 9
Ianus Publications
This is a comedy science-fiction RPG based on the Japanese anime
TV series. It has a simple, rules-light system fitting for the
goofiness and massive destruction found in the original A-Ko
series, a rules-lite predecessor to the "Silhouette" system used
in <a href="GAME#heavygear">Heavy Gear</a> and
other games.
Promised Sands RPG
Benjamin Rogers
Mike Rennaker
Robert Anderson
Kelly Slaughter
2003
BBRACK Productions
394
A fantasy RPG set in an original fantasy setting called T'nah: a magical,
post-apocalyptic, vaguely middle-eastern desert environment. It uses a
percentile skill-based system (the "Trinary System"), where you roll
3d10, the first two dice are percentile roll that determines success
or failure and the third d10 is the Effect Die which determines degree
of success. The 394-page core book includes extensive world detail,
two magic systems (Ido and Qai), and a selection of monsters.
Prophecy
Benoît Attinost
Julien Blondel
Geoffrey Picard
Philippe Tessier
Léonidas Vesperini
Timbre-Poste
2000
Halloween Concept
Benoît Attinost
Julien Blondel
Geoffrey Picard
Philippe Tessier
Léonidas Vesperini
Timbre-Poste
Jean-Marc Maquin
Isabelle Vassaux
Antoine Clermond
2002
Darwin Project
A French-language medieval fantasy RPG, set in the Kingdoms of Kor.
Proteus
Bruce Gomes
Duncan Barrow
1992
Bruce Gomes Industries
A late medieval fantasy genre RPG with an original world
setting. It has non-standard races of centaurs, rat-creatures,
eagle-men, and others. The system is skill-based (roll under
stat on 1d30). Character creation is random-roll attributes and
point-bought skills.
Providence RPG
Richard Binek
Nicolas Jequier
Jeff Mackintosh
Michael Scott
Lucien Soulban
1997
XID Creative
2nd
2001
Hubris
An unusual fantasy RPG, "a mix of fantasy and the four-color
bravado of super-heroes". It has a separate rules book with the
mechanics and a world book describing the setting. It is set on
a former penal colony planet in another dimension, which was cut
off from the original world and freed by a revolt. Much later,
a crack in the world started to flood the world, forcing the
inhabitants to look for the long-lost gates to escape. The
system uses attribute+skill as modifiers to a 2d10 roll vs
difficulty.
Psi World
Del Carr
Cheron
1984
FGU
A game of psionic powers in a near-future setting with two
options: Psi's fighting an oppressive government, or Psi Police
protecting innocents from rogue Psi's. It uses a percentile
skill-based system.
Psychosis
Charles Ryan
1994
Chameleon Eclectic
A surreal game where character's reality is questioned, in the
genre of movies like "Brazil" and "Total Recall". It uses a
diceless system where action resolution is by tarot cards and GM
discretion.
La Puerta de Ishtar
Rodrigo Garcia Carmona
2012
Otherselves
A Spanish-language fantasy game, set in a fantasy world patterned after Mesopotamia in the
Bronze Age. The setting focuses on the Empire of Akkad, the most powerful known empire, ruled
by the human-appearing Awilu, and also populated partly by two slave races they created -
the human-like Mushkenu, and the minotaur-like Wardu. It uses a skill-based system, with
resolution by 3d6 + attribute + skill compared to a difficulty (13 for an average action).
There are six attributes (rated 1-6), and broad skills (rated 1-3) like "gladiator" or "noble".
Character creation is a mix of random-roll, priority picks, and lifepath.
Pulp Era: Cinematic Adventures in the Yesteryear
James Carpio
Michael Smith
Jon Richardson
2005
Chapter 13 Press
Dilly Green Bean Games
A game based on the serial pulp stories of the 30's and 40's,
mixed with modern cinematic action. It uses an original
skill-based system with eight attributes (Smarts, Vigor,
Charm, Spirit, Brawn, Insight, Dynamism, and Quickness),
a Stunt, a Schtick, Gimmicks, and Faults.
Puppetland
John Tynes
1999
Hogshead Games
A fantasy/horror mini-RPG, set in a world of puppets where the
evil Punch has killed the creator and rules over the other
puppets with an iron hand. It uses a minimalist diceless system
where players are required to speak out (in puppet-show style)
what they are doing as dialogue (i.e. "I hit you with this stick,
you evil nutcracker!").
Purgatory
Jon Wilkie
2000
Atomic Hyrax Games
A conspiracy RPG, set shortly before a looming apocalypse. The
PC's are "Penitents" who have returned from the dead with various
powers to deal with the upcoming doom. It uses a card-draw
mechanic for action resolution that allows both live-action and
table-top play.
QAGS: Quick Ass Game System
Leighton Connor
Steve Johnson
Dale French
1998
Hex Games
A tongue-in-cheek minimalist RPG system intended for use in any
setting. A character has 3 attributes (Body, Brain, and Nerve)
along with a Job, "Gimmick", and Weakness. An additional stat is
"WSPHITM" (Who should play him/her in the movie?).
QCCS - Quick Charakter Creating System
Uwe Mundt
1995
Dreamland Worx
2nd
1998
A German-language universal RPG system. It uses a percentile
skill-based system, with 22 attributes. Roll stat + d100
to get over 100. The basic game also includes 11 races and
37 occupation packages. A free version of the rules is
apparently available on the web.
Qin: The Warring States
1st French
Neko
Florrent
Kristoff
Romain d'Huissier
Pierre Buty
2005
7ème Cercle
288
1st English
2007
A semi-historical RPG set in China in 240 B.C., specifically the state
of Qin -- which in history will shortly conquer the other six states to
form a single nation. It uses an original system. Resolution uses a
"Yin/Yang" roll -- roll two ten-sided dice and subtract the lower result
from the higher. Which color die is lower is used in damage calculation.
Character creation is limited point-bought, spending 14 points on
five attributes based on the five Chinese elements, choice of one
gift and one weakness, spending 15 points on skills, and 15 points
on maneuvers and mystic arts.
QUAD Live Action Role Playing Rules
Hardy Darrell
unknown
Guild of Blades
A generic set of LARP rules, covered in 20 digest pages, with no
background and setting information. The rules cover resolving
tasks and conflict as well as skill advancement, and are short so
as to be memorized easily for live games.
Queeste
Joop Oele
1979
self-published
Frank Rieter-Lambers
2007
self-published
A Dutch-language fantasy RPG, set in an extensively detailed fantasy
world. It uses a class/level system that uses only six-sided dice,
with an involved magical system inspired by the Earthsea books of
Ursula LeGuin, including a functional magical language. The second
edition is printed through
<a href="http://www.lulu.com/content/paperback-book/queeste-regelboeken/913980">
Lulu</a>, with the electronic version available free.
cf. also the <a href="http://queeste.ijlbode.nl/">
Queeste page</a> and the
<a href="http://queestgroep.blogspot.com/">
Queeste Group Weblog</a>.
Quest - The Storytelling Game
Shane Garvey
2010
Crystal Star Games
A fantasy RPG, meant to be a basic entry-level game with a very simple
system. Character creation is class-based with three classes.
Quest! A Role playing Game System for Children
Dave Newton
Christi Newton
2012
self-published
An introductory RPG designed for 2-4 players ages 4-10 and a
game master. It includes a board game, "The Gems of the Fairie Queen",
intended as an introduction to role playing for children.
It is self-published, available from the author's web-page at
<a href="http://www.abervon.com/quest/">
www.abervon.com/quest/</a>.
Questers of the Middle Realms
Tim Gray
2006
Silver Branch Games
A fantasy genre RPG set on an original world, "Median", which wryly
pokes fun at some fantasy cliches. It uses a variant of the Prose
Descriptive Qualities (PDQ) system used in
<a href="GAME#deadinside">Dead Inside</a> and
<a href="GAME#truthandjustice">
Truth & Justice</a>.
Quest of the Ancients
Vince Garcia
1988
Unicorn Game Publications
A swords-and-sorcery genre RPG. It uses a class-based system
with percentile secondary skills.
Quicksilver
Manda
Jeff Dee
1997
Unigames
A fantasy RPG published electronically through HyperBooks Online.
It is set in the land of Seloria, inhabited by 3 goblin races and
2 faerie races as well as humans. The world includes psychic
powers as well as a unique metal ("Quicksilver") that responds to
mental commands, molding itself to any shape. However, as it is
used, the metal takes on a life of its own -- potentially "going
rogue". It uses a skill-based system, rolling 2d10 under
attribute + skill. Character creation is open point based,
including 5 attributes (from 7 to 13), skills (from 0 to 4), and
ads/disads.
The Quiet Year
Joe McDonald
2013
Buried Without Ceremony
A post-apocalyptic storytelling game where the players take turns
adding details to a year in the community in a post-apocalyptic setting,
by drawing a map and by individual narration. Each turn, a card is
drawn from a deck of playing cards arranged in the four suits for the
seasons of the year and shuffled within each suit. There are different
play options for each card drawn.
Ragnarok
Carlos Monzon
1992
Ludoctenia
2nd
Carlos Monzon
1995
Ludoctenia
A Spanish-language contemporary horror RPG, including background
dealing with an evil entity that arrived to Earth 65 million years ago,
along with Arab philosophers, secret orders, the Knights Templar,
and various paranormal creatures. The original system uses stat + 1d20
vs difficulty. The second edition, Ragnarok: Un Nuevo Comienzo,
changes this to rolling under base attribute + relevant skill on 2d10.
Character generation is point-based, with four different power levels.
Rampant
1999
Living Imagination, Inc.
A fantasy genre live-action role-playing system.
RandomAnime: The Definitive Anime Role-Playing Game
Brian J. Perry
2002
Infernal Funhouse Productions
184
A universal system for anime-style play. Action resolution uses
stat + 2d6 - difficulty, where a 10 or higher is a success. An
additional die, the Luck die, is rolled to determine partial successes
based on your Luck score. Character creation uses templates and
limited point-buy. The player selects one of 21 templates (which
gives a number of bonus points and luck points), then spends attribute
points among the 8 attributes and skill points among the 30 skills.
Experience is in "Style Points", given out during the game immediately
if the player does a stylish move.
Ranma 1/2: il gioco
Gianluca Casu
Millo Franzoni
1999
Alchemia
An Italian-language martial-arts RPG, based on the Japanese
manga/anime series of the same name.
Raôul
Marcel Larcenet
1994
Les Rêveurs de Runes
A French-language humorous modern-day RPG where the PC's
are caricatural, average French redneck in everyday situations.
The title translates as "The Smelly-under-the-arms Role-playing Game".
It uses a very simple system.
Rapture: The Second Coming
William Spencer-Hale
1995
Quintessential Mercy
A game of theological horror, set in a futuristic biblical
armageddon.
R.A.S.
Nicolas Julien
Thomas Baudoin
2002
self-published
224
A French-language military science fiction RPG, in the genre of
Heinlein's "Starship Troopers". It is set in a galaxy inhabited
by Humans, the Ullar (orca-descended humanoids, now wandering
mercernaries), the Adharax (enigmatic tentacled creatures), and
Shankkar (warlike cat-people). It uses a simple system of attribute
+ skill + 1d10 vs difficulty, with some special modifiers.
R.A.S.H. Engine Fantasy
Jesse Sikes
Shawn Houghtaling
2010
The R.A.S.H. Engine Team
A skill-based system using a single d10 for resolution as a fantasy
core rulebook in the genre of
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">Dungeons & Dragons</a>.
It includes a magic system as well as options for races including
humans, light and dark elves, dwarves, halflings, and gnomes.
Character creation is limited point-based, spending 20 points on
the four attributes - Reason, Agility, Strength, and Health - that
form the game's acronym. The character then gets starting skill
points equal to Reason times three, spends 10 specialization points,
and may optionally choose a template - a package of starting abilities
that give greater power within a specialty for a genre type such as
fighter, thief, cleric, wizard, or knight.
Rated G: The Roleplaying Game of Saturday Morning Fantasy Violence
Vincent Diakuw
2003
Thousandpress
30
A simple diceless system emulating fantasy action cartoons. Characters
are defined by ranked "Tags", such as "Legendary Strength" for Superman.
Higher-rated tags win, with more specific tag winning in the case
of a tie. Tags may be pushed to increase them, but they are fatigued
(lowering one rank) after one push, or exhausted after two pushes.
Character creation works by all players writing a word or phrase on
five slips of paper, then drawing from all the slips put together,
using the drawn slips to create the basis for their tags.
Ravendeath
Iacopo Frigerio
2010
Coyote Press
An Italian-language GMless game about stories of revenge such as
The Crow, The Count of Monte Cristo, Sin City, Kill Bill, and others.
Raven Star
A. Siddiqui
1994
Raven Star Game Designs
2nd
1997
A science fantasy RPG, set in a far-future space-opera universe
where magic has been found on a frontier world, via the remnants
of an ancient civilization. In addition to humanity, there are
aliens easily described as elves, dwarves, lion-men, and
bear-men. The frontier world has a "wild west" feel as everyone
converges to get at the new phenomena. The game uses a simple
skill system: skill+d20 vs difficulty. d6's are used for damage
rolls (i.e. 2d6, 3d6+2, etc.).
The Realm of the Gateway
Part One - The Magic Realm
John Griffin
Matt Nixon
1996
Griffin Games
Part Two - The Science Realm
1999
A small-press fantasy RPG. It uses a system intended to be adapted
to various "realms" for different genres, although only the fantasy
one was ever published. Character creation is by random-roll attributes
and point-bought skill with required profession packages. Action
resolution is by rolling 1d20 under attribute + skill. The first
book included 9 fantasy races, a magic system with 200 spells,
and a psionics system with 20 powers.
Realm of Yolmi
Ken Black
Marshall Rose
1978
Avant-Garde Simulations Perspectives
2nd
1978
A spacefaring sci-fi RP set on a future Earth. The PC's are
humans, although there are various aliens (including the evil
"Yolmi"). The system is class-based: soldiers, cyborgs,
scientists, and psychics. Advancement is level-based. It
includes starship combat rules, and over 140 creature stats.
The Realms of Atlantasia
John Holland
2011
J.A.C.H. Books
544
A medieval fantasy RPG that focuses on realism, such as damage to weapons
and armor. It uses a percentile system, including a magic system with
8 schools of magic and 8 temples of worship, each having their own spells.
Realms of Wor
Jeffrey Walker
Steve Ong
David Wainio
2004
Three Sages Games
A medieval fantasy RPG. It uses a skill-based system, with 1d20
resolution rolls. Character creation is class-based, with the option
to build your own subclasses. Advancement is by skill improvement
by use or training. Combat occurs in ten second rounds and actions
are split up within that round as strike ranks, with armor reducing
damage. The core rules come in four books: the Player Guidebook,
Spellcaster's Guidebook, Game Master Book, and Encounter Encyclopedia.
Recon
Joe F. Martin
1982
RPG Inc.
2nd
Erick Wujcik
1986
Palladium Books
Deluxe Revised
1999
A modern military RPG and miniatures system set in the Vietnam
War, playing U.S. troops against the evil V.C. The game was
licensed by Palladium for the 2nd edition, but does not use the
Palladium RPG house system.
Red Dwarf: The Roleplaying Game
Todd Downing
Mark Bruno
John Sullivan
Andrew Kenrick
Lee Hammock
2003
Deep7
176
A humorous sci-fi RPG based on the television series from
Grant Naylor Productions, about characters trapped in an ancient
Earth spaceship now lost in the middle of nowhere. It uses the
"XPG" system. Action resolution is by rolling under attribute +
skill on 2d6. Character creation is limited point based (attribute
points and skill points), with adjustments for different types of
characters: holograms, mechanoids, gelfs, simulants, and various
types of evolved animals (cat, dog, rabbit, iguana, and rat).
Redención
Juan Antonio Huerta Domínguez
2004
Edge Entertainment
176
A Spanish-language hard sci-fi roleplaying game, subtitled
"Un pasado a olvidar, un futuro a temer, un presente para luchar".
Set in the year 2398, where the Earth has been destroyed and the
survivors live in small habitats on Mars, the Moon, and orbital
stations. The game deals with ancient cultures (Egyptian, Sumerian,
etc.) and their relationship with the aliens that attacked the earth.
Red Shift
Paul B. Spence
1998
Grendel
2nd
2002
A spacefaring sci-fi RPG, set in 3663 after an interstellar
human empire collapsed.
La Regola del Gioco
Piermaria Maraziti
Marco Perez
1996
Qualitygame
An Italian-language universal storytelling RPG, part of the
"I Giochi del 2000" collection. The title translates as
"The Rule of the Game".
REICHCRAFT : el juego de rol y t´ctico de fantas&icaute;a en la II guerra mundial
Diego Martinez Ruiz de Gaona
Nora Ortega Rey
2003
self-published
A Spanish-language modern fantasy RPG, whose title roughly translates
as "REICHCRAFT: The RPG & Wargame of Fantasy in the
Second World War". Self-published in Bilbao, Spain. It is set
in an alternate WWII, where orcs and undeads have joined
the Italian army, sinister elves representing Germany have imprisoned
humans in concentration camps, and the ratlings follow the orders of
the Japanese emperor. Meanwhile the Allies are aided by elves,
gnomes, dwarves, humans & golems. It uses a simple
system which includes tactical miniatures rules using a metric
ruler. Action resolution is based on attribute + 1d10 +
modifiers.
Reich Star
Simon Bell
Ken Richardson
1991
Creative Encounters
A sci-fi RPG set in 2134 of an alternate history where the Third
Reich won WWII and dominated the world. The Third Reich and the
Empire of Nippon are in the midst of an age-old Cold War with
each other, even as they expand their empires to other star systems.
The player characters are revolutionaries trying to overthrow the
Third Reich and restore freedom and democracy to Erde and its
colonies.
Reign
Greg Stolze
2007
Schroedinger's Cat Press
A fantasy genre RPG using the "One-Roll Engine" from
<a href="GAME#godlike">Godlike</a>: Superhero Roleplaying
in a World on Fire. It includes an original setting, magic system,
and rules for resolving group conflicts. Actions are resolved by
rolling d10's equal to stat plus skill. The number of matches
(i.e. d10's with the same value) indicate speed of success, while
the number matched indicates quality of success.
Remember Tomorrow: Near Future Role-Playing
Gregor Hutton
2010
BoxNinja
A sci-fi literary cyberpunk GMless RPG with no specified setting, although
sample brand names and factions are included. Each scene has a focus
player character, and one of the other players acts as GM by playing on
the opposing faction. Characters have three numerical stats rated from
1 to 10 called Ready, Willing, and Able - as well as two descriptive
stats called Positive Condition (PCon) and Negative Condition (NCon).
Opposition factions have a single stat called Influence. Resolution
is by each side rolling 3d10, with each die at or under the three PC
stats (or the faction's Influence) counting as a success. Each player
creates both a PC and an opposing faction, including choosing a
descriptive Identity, Motivation, PCon, and NCon; and for PCs
distributing 12 points among the three stats.
Renegade Legion: Legionnaire
Michael A. Stackpole
A. Peters
1990
FASA
A small-unit tabletop sci-fi combat system, covering infantry to
tanks. Part of a wargame trilogy with <u>RL: Interceptor</u>
dealt with air combat and <u>RL: Leviathan</u>. It has a unique
system for vehicle armor, where differing weapons affected
different 2D shapes of armor blocks. Set in year 6830, PC's
include starfighter pilots, grav tank commander, or other
adventurer. Fight the oppressive Terran Overlord Government of
the Roman-style empire centered around Earth. A few military
units defected from the empire to protect the alien races of the
Commonwealth and became known as the Renegade Legion. Legionnaire
details the history of Earth and seven alien races and provides
combat focused rules. cf. Therion's
<a href="http://www.ncci.net/therion/welcome/Bridge.htm">
Renegade Legion page</a>.
Requiem
Zsolt Nyulászi
Tamás Farkas
Zoltán Pozsonyi
István Eörsi
2000
Beneficium
A Hungarian-language fantasy RPG.
Resolute: The Superhero RPG
Michael T. Desing
2008
Teddy Bear Press
24
A simple superhero roleplaying game, with an original setting of a modern
Earth under siege by tyrranical aliens, the Messari, who have made several
invasion attempts starting 13 years ago. It uses an original system.
Resolution is by 2d6 + stat versus difficulty. Stats ranging from
-1 (Impaired, lifting 20 lbs or 5 mph speed) to +13 (Supreme, lifting
500 tons or light speed travel). Character creation is open point-based,
with eight attributes and over 50 superpowers.
Retrofutur
Raphael Bardas
Sebastien Celerin
Mael Le Mee
Tristan Lhomme
Frederic Weil
2002
Multisim
256
A French-language RPG set in an alternate history called the
"Twisted 50's" -- inspired by uchronic dystopian fiction like Dark
City and Brazil. Governments were telepathically contacted by aliens
in the mid-19th century, which have largely unified into power blocks
in preparation for contact. The PCs are part of the resistance
against this world government. Character creation is based on
rolling 1d10 on a universal chart which compares skill to difficulty.
Skill is determined by a combination of freeform, binary "domain"
traits and "verb" traits. Your skill for a task is based on the
number of traits which apply. There is also a form of fate points:
a pool of "Death" points which players add to gain bonuses, and
which the GM draws from to cause penalties.
Rêve de Dragon
1st (French)
Denis Gerfaud
1985
Nouvelles Editions Fantastiques
Ludodélire
2nd (French)
1993
Multisim
1st (English)
2002
Malcontent Games
A French-language fantasy RPG, set in an ever changing and poetic
world dreamed by dragons. The PC's are travellers there, who
walk along the Low and High Lands of dream, and fight magic
dangers and dream creatures. One of the best-selling games in
France. A beginner's version of the game was also made,
entitled "Oniros". There is also an English edition, published
electronically.
Revelation: The Modern Superheroic Horror Role-Playing Game
James C. Taylor Jr.
Jason Knizley
1998
Happy Nebula Adventure Publishing
A modern horror game where the PCs are members of an ancient organization
based in England dedicated to fighting the supernatural, and in particular
demons known as the "Shaetan". The PCs are all superhuman, including
five types: Child of the Vampire, Dead Man Walking, Eternal Hero,
Nephilim, and Reluctant Werewolf. It includes four magic subsystems
for witchcraft, sorcery, psionics, and faith.
Rhand: Morning Star Missions
Barry Nakazano
David McKenzie
1984
Leading Edge
A science-fantasy RPG with an in-depth combat system, predecessor
to <a href="GAME#livingsteel">Living Steel</a>. It is
set on the planet Rhand about 500 years after the "Apocalypse",
where alien "Spectrals" are invading. It uses a slightly simplified
version of the combat system in
<a href="GAME#swordspathglory">Sword's Path: Glory</a>
(which is very complex by most standards).
It includes rules for magic, fantasy creatures, etc.
Ribbon Drive
Joe McDonald
2009
Buried Without Ceremony
A GMless cooperative storytelling game about a modern-day road trip.
It uses randomly chosen songs from mix tapes that the players supply
to guide choices. Each player creates a character by choosing a name,
two desired futures for the character, and three traits. The players
then take turns framing scenes. There are rules for obstacles that
may result in crossing off traits, achieving futures, or crossing off
(transcending) futures. The first player character to cross off both
futures becomes the protagonist.
The Riddle of Steel
Jacob Norwood
Rick McCann
Ben Moore
2002
Driftwood Publishing
A fantasy RPG set on an original world, Weyrth. It focuses on a
realistic, turn-less combat system which is tactically demanding and
deadly -- based on study of European Renaissance fighting techniques.
It uses a dice pool system where you roll a number of d10's against
a target number, counting number of successes. It also has a core
system of Spiritual Attributes, which gives you extra dice for following
defined goals or ties for your character (such as a destiny, a loved
one, or a faith).
Rifts
Kevin Siembieda
1990
Palladium Books
Ultimate
2005
A science fantasy post-apocalyptic game about a world where nuclear
strikes set off a magical transformation of the Earth. Visible
ley lines of magical energy spring up, along with inter-
dimensional "rifts" which brought in aliens and monsters. The
system is a variant of the
<a href="GAME#palladiumfantasy">Palladium System</a>.
The game features many augmented humans and massive firepower (up
to personal nukes!), facilitated by "Mega-damage" where each point
is 100 normal "hit points".
Ring of Changes
Ben Wright
2010
self-published
100
A fantasy RPG centered on alchemy as a codified and narrow form of magic,
inspired by the Japanese anime FullMetal Alchemist. The intended emphasis
mechanical and story levels is on making sacrifices towards a goal and
facing difficult choices. The book is self-published as a
<a href="http://www.lulu.com/product/paperback/ring-of-changes/12109480">
print-on-demand book</a> via Lulu.com.
Ringwielder
Dennis Drew
1990
self-published
A shareware science fantasy RPG set on a giant generational
starship using mystic "Psycho-Manipulative Energy" that had a
catastrophic accident shortly after. The systems went
haywire and rewrote the environment and people to match
fictional characters and locales. The PCs are "Ringwielders"
that have entered into an agreement with the central computer
to protect all life on the ship, armed with rings that can
have up to 36 powers. Character creation is random-roll,
rolling for powers, the 8 primary abilities, and the 20
secondary abilities.
Ringworld
Sherman Kahn
John Hewitt
Lynn Willis
Sandy Petersen
Charlie Krank
Rudy Kraft
1983
Chaosium
A sci-fi RPG based on the Larry Niven's novels: set on an
artificial mega-world (a ring around its star) with a melting pot
of races and technology. It uses a variant of Chaosium's
<a href="GAME#basic">Basic Role-playing</a> percentile system.
Character races are human, Kzin, or Puppeteer.
Road Rebels
Dale L. Gordon
1989
self-published
A post-apocalyptic RPG in the genre of the "Road Warrior" films.
It uses a percentile system (roll under skill on d100). Character
creation has seven random-roll attributes on a 3-18 scale
(STR, LOOKS, DEX, CON, SIZ, CHA, SPD), random-roll social class,
and point-bought skills. It includes rules for repairing and
modifying vehicles, done with flowcharts. Combat is table-based
and complex.
Roanoke
Clint Krause
2006
Clint Krause Games
44
Roanoke is a short alternate historical role-playing game of mystery
and action, set at the Roanoke colony in America between 1587 and
1590 (when it disappeared). It provides several options for threats
to the colony, ranging from conspiracies, monsters, zombies, and
others. It uses a variant of the
<a href="GAME#wushu">Wushu</a> game system, by Daniel Bayn.
It adds a Doom point mechanic, where players can trade success now for
a grisly fate later.
Robotech the Roleplaying Game
Book One: Macross
Kevin Siembieda
1986
Palladium Books
A sci-fi RPG based on the Japanese animated TV series of
giant humanoid robots ("mecha"). It uses a variant of the
<a href="GAME#palladiumfantasy">Palladium FRPG</a> system.
Robotech II: The Sentinels
Kevin Siembieda
1988
Palladium Books
This is a sci-fi RPG based on a proposed sequel to the
Robotech TV series. It is set in the same universe, dealing with
a starship seeking help for Earth against the Invid.
It uses a variant of the
<a href="GAME#palladiumfantasy">Palladium FRPG</a> system.
Robot Warriors
Steve Perrin
George MacDonald
1986
Hero Games
A sci-fi RPG about giant robot combat. The rules are a variant
of the 3rd edition <a href="GAME#champions">Champions</a>
rules, scaled up for truly massive sizes. It also includes human
pilot creation rules.
Rocket Age
Ken Spencer
2010
Cubicle 7 Entertainment Limited
A retro sci-fi RPG, set in the late 1930's of an alternate universe where in 1931 Einstein, Tesla, and
Ray Armstrong rode the first rocket ship to Mars. It uses a version of the "Vortex system" that first appeared
in <a href="GAME#doctorwho_cubicle7">Doctor Who: Adventures in Time and Space</a> (2009).
Resolution is by adding attribute + skill + 2d6 versus difficulty - possibly modified by spending
Story Points. Character creation is point-based, setting 6 attributes (Awareness, Coordination,
Ingenuity, Presence, Resolve, and Strength) along with 12 skills and various traits.
Rocky and Bullwinkle RPG
David Cook
Warren Spector
1988
TSR
A humorous storytelling RPG based on the cartoon TV show. The
boxed set includes 10 hand puppets (unrelated to the system).
The system (such as it is) starts with storytelling using story
cards, adding in action resolution using spinners.
Rogue Swords of the Empire
Joseph Hillmer
George Rahm
1993
Better Games
A fantasy mini-RPG, published in <u>Fantasy Gamer</u> magazine,
issue #2. It is based on the RPG <a href="GAME#barony">Barony</a>.
Le Roi-Chat
Sicart
unknown
self-published
A French-language RPG of playing common housecats (?!?).
ROLE: Regles Optionnelles Limitees a l'Essentiel
Francois Nedelec
Didier Guiserix
1985
Casus Belli magazine
A French-language universal mini-RPG (2 pages). Later was
republished in the magazine Casus Belli #34 and in the games
<a href="GAME#avantcharlemagne">Avant Charlemagne</a> and
<a href="GAME#mega">MEGA II</a>.
Röle
Cosimo Lorenzo Pancini
1995
Qualitygame
An Italian-language mini-RPG, part of the "I Giochi del 2000"
collection. A sci-fi game with rules similar to TSR's
<a href="GAME#alternity">Alternity</a> system.
Rolemaster
S. Coleman Charlton
Peter C. Fenlon
Kurt H. Fischer
Terry K. Amthor
1980
Iron Crown Enterprises
2nd
1984
Standard System
Coleman Charlton
John Curtis
Pete Fenlon
Steve Martin
1995
FRP
S. Coleman Charlton
John Curtis
1999
A traditional fantasy-genre game, originally designed as a
modular addition to other games ("Arms Law", "Spell Law",
"Character Law", "Claw Law", and "Campaign Law"). The system
uses skill plus an open-ended percentile roll resolved on a
table, with tables for each weapon and skill. Character creation
was originally random-roll attributes and limited point-buy
skills, modified by choice of class. A given class had its own
cost for each skill type (i.e. weapon skill costs 10 for a
magician but 3 for a warrior). Later they added a separate
attribute point-buy system.
Roleplayer
Matthew P. King
1983
Roleplayer Enterprises
196
A universal RPG system, with sections on medieval fantasy, mutant
powers, modern horror, and futuristic weaponry. As an example
so GMs can design their own, there is a single sample monster:
the argent wombat.
Roles
David Jamet
unknown
self-published
2nd
unknown
A French-language medieval fantasy RPG. The 1st edition was
expensively laid out with a wooden GM screen and a bronze
10-sided die. The 2nd edition was only the rulebook.
Roma Imperious: Alternate World History
William Corrie III
2004
HinterWelt Enterprises
336
An alternate history where during the third century Constantine
embraced Celtic magic and took over the Roman Empire. It details
the world of 1461 in this alternate history, including pre-Viking
era Norsemen, a Chinese empire called the Jade Empire, and African
states like Axum and the Empire of Ghana. It uses a variant of
the "Iridium" system, which originally appeared in
<a href="GAME#talesofgaea">Tales of Gaea</a>.
Character creation includes random-roll attributes (best of 3d20 for
each of eleven attributes), followed by choosing one of 26 classes
which influence skills. The basic game also includes over 30 Foes
and 13 pregenerated templates for fast play.
Le Royaume des Dragons
Paul Chion
unknown
Éditions Dragon Radieux
A French-language medieval fantasy mini-RPG (6 pages), aimed for
younger children.
Ruby...Worlds beyond Dream
Greg Saunders
2007
Fire Ruby Studios
A spacefaring science fiction game set in distant time and space,
where the legacy of humanity is the modified NuMen and a binary star
system of Golden and Red, initially established by privately-sponsored
colony ships. All NuMen project themselves into "Shell" bodies using
instant communication. The player characters are Lucids - a minority
fringe who are able to remember their projection into bodies. The
game uses a dice pool system with six attributes: Reason, Volition,
Ego, Body, Grace, Vitality. Resolution is by rolling d6s equal to
attribute, where 4-6 is a positive outcome and 1 is a negative outcome.
The total outcomes are compared against the difficulty.
Ruf des Warlock
Olaf Heinen
Goesta Krengel
Silvia Eckelt
1992
Games-in Verlag
A small-press German-language medieval fantasy RPG. The world is
high fantasy (e.g. teleporting castles) with a few twists
(i.e. orcs are proud barbarians rather than evil) and highly
interventionist gods. The rule system is class and level-based,
with random-roll attributes. There are multiple critical hit
tables.
RuinCrawl
Tom K. Loney
2007
Peryton Publishing
20
A pulp fantasy game inspired by old-fashioned sword and sorcery paperbacks.
It uses the minimalist TAG (Tom's Adventure Gaming) system. Resolution
uses 2d6 against a target number of difficulty minus attribute.
Character creation includes races including elf, dwarf, simian, and
goblin; and character classes including Amazon/Barbarian, Sword-Arm,
Cutthroat, Thief, and Sage.
Rules To Live By
John Kilgallon
Mike Young
Sandy Antunes
2001
Interactivities, Inc.
120 full-size (8.5x11 in)
This is a universal system for live-action role-playing (LARP). It
uses dice for mechanics (somewhat unusual for the LARP world), with
resolution of attribute + skill + 1d6 vs difficulty. Combat uses
the same basic mechanics, and assigns levels of damage marked as
stars on the character's badge.
Rune
1st
Robin D. Laws
2001
Atlas Games
A fantasy-genre RPG based on the computer game <u>Rune</u>
from Human Head Studios, set in a land of Scandanavian myth.
The system is adapted from <a href="GAME#arsmagica">Ars Magica</a>
with simplifications. Resolution is attribute + skill + 1d10 vs
difficulty (or vs other roll).
RuneQuest
1st
Steve Perrin
Ray Turney
Steve Henderson
Warren James
Greg Stafford
1978
Chaosium
2nd
1979
3rd
Steve Perrin
Greg Stafford
Steve Henderson
Lynn Willis
1984
Avalon Hill
4th
Matthew Sprange
2006
Mongoose Publishing
A fantasy-genre RPG set in the original world of Glorantha.
Glorantha is a low-tech world (often bronze age) where religion,
cults, and magic are of constant importance. It uses a percentile
skill-based system which was later published separately as the
<a href="GAME#basic">Basic Roleplaying</a> system.
Action resolution is by rolling under skill (0-100) on percentile
dice, or by roll on a "resistance table" which compares opposed
attributes (with +/- 5% per attribute point). Character creation
uses random-roll attributes (3-18), and skills selected by
profession. It includes several magic systems, including a
involved Runic Magic system. Magical power could be boosted by
secrets learned in various cults. The third and fourth editions
separated the system and magic from the setting of Glorantha, though
Glorantha was still one of the setting choices.
Rune Stryders
Matt Drake
Mike Fiegel
2003
Politically Incorrect Games
242
A fantasy-genre RPG, set on a gritty fantasy world ("Rhun") where wars
are fought with magically-powered war machines of stone, wood or
exotic materials (i.e. "Rune Stryders") -- an homage to giant robotic
mecha of Japanese animation. There are no fantasy races (i.e. elves
or dwarves) and few large monsters. Instead, there are wars and
political intrigue among the various human nations. The PCs are by
default expected to be a band of mercenaries. It uses a dice
pool system. Action resolution is to roll a number of d10s equal
to (skill + 1). Each die under your attribute score is one success.
Run Out the Guns
Jason Hawkins
Todd McGovern
1998
Iron Crown Enterprises
A pirate swashbuckling-action RPG set in the historical 17th century:
specifically the Carribean circa 1660. The game includes a
wealth of historical detail and background on the era. The
system is based on (and compatible with) the
<a href="GAME#rolemaster">Rolemaster</a> system, but
simplified to be suitable for beginners. There are pre-generated
characters provided but no character creation system in the basic game.
The ship-to-ship combat rules are also sketchy.
Run Robot Red
Annie Rush
2004
Wicked Dead Brewing Company
A humorous sci-fi RPG about little robots controlled by totalitarian
overlords. It is set on Widenet YT, a vast worldship ruled by the
tyrannical and mysterious Cel Tron Stroma.
Rus
Mark Chapman
Joe Caruso
1990
Rus Games
A fantasy RPG set in the mythic version of medieval Russia. It
includes elemental nature priests ("Volkhvy"), necromancers
("Koldun"), and Christian missionaries. It uses a system with
classes (Russia-specific) and skills, with skill-based
advancement. The combat system is fairly involved.
The Rustbelt: tales of tenacity, depravity, and hope
Marshall Burns
2010
Beyond the Wire Productions
160
A post-apocalyptic roleplaying game inspired by The Stand, The Road,
and the Mad Max films. It is set in a future where a mystical power
known as The Rust that corrupts everything has destroyed civilization.
It uses a dice pool system where characters have three pools -
Blood, Sweat, & Tears - that are called upon to push failed
rolls into successes. There are no skills, but there are eight
attributes: Tough, Savvy, Grizzled, Slick, Thorough, Personable,
Cagey and Uncanny. It also includes a number of descriptive psyche
traits including Hunger (i.e. desires), Vice (habits to fall back
on to cope), Faith (they believe in) and Woe (things they regret).
Ryuu Tama Natural Fantasy RPG (りゅうたま)
Tokuhiro Okada
2007
Tabletalk Cafe Daydream
Jive Ltd
A Japanese-language fantasy RPG whose title means "Dragon Egg". It is
billed as a "natural fantasy" game, meaning roughly it is more positive
and less violent. Character classes include Minstrels, Merchants,
Hunters, Healers, Farmers, Artisans, and Nobles.
Saga System
unknown
1985
G+S Verlag
A German-language universal RPG system. This developed out
of a line of universal supplements for any system, which eventually
developed its own house system.
Sailor Moon RPG
Mark C. MacKinnon
1998
Guardians of Order
A schoolgirl-superhero RPG based on the Japanese animated TV
series, which includes a thorough description of the series
including characters and background. It uses the "Tri-Stat"
system from <a href="GAME#bigeyessmallmouth">Big Eyes, Small Mouth</a>,
altered only by giving genre-specific traits.
Sandman
The Map of Hamal
Mark Acres
Andria Hayday
1985
Pacesetter
Key to the Inland Sea
1985
A surreal RPG scenario series where the (pre-made) player
characters wake up to find they have no memory of who they are or
how they came to be there. The published game was originally
intended to be in a contest to identify who the PC's are, but
folded. PC abilities would slowly be revealed in the published
scenarios -- clues as to their identity. The system is a
percentile system with a universal action table, a simplified
version of the <a href="GAME#chill">Chill</a> mechanics.
Sangokushi Engi
unknown
unknown
Koei
A Japanese-language RPG meaning 'Romance of the Three Kingdoms
Role-play'. It is set in China during the fall of the Han dynasty,
based on the traditional Chinese epic <u>Romance of the Three Kingdoms</u>.
The system is based on comparing attribute + skill + 2d6 vs
difficulty. Character creation is class-based (Warrior, Spy,
Scholar, Merchant, or Heroine), with class modifying attributes
and providing certain special abilities.
Santa's Soldiers
Bill Kte'pi
Todd Downing
Gavin Downing
2000
Deep7
A light-hearted 28-page mini-RPG about a paramilitary army of
well-armed elves who guard Santa and Christmas against the
power-hungry Easter Bunny, Halloween's Boogieman, and the insane
Anti-Claus -- using ultra-violent techniques so Santa doesn't have
to get his hands dirty.
Savage Worlds
Shane Lacy Hensley
2003
Pinnacle Entertainment Group
144 hardcover
2nd
Shane Lacy Hensley
2005
Great White Games
144 hardcover
A universal system with a focus on fast resolution. It uses a step-die
rules system related to <a href="GAME#deadlands">Deadlands</a>.
You roll a d4 to d12 (depending on your stat) plus modifiers, and
a result over 4 or higher than your opponent's is a success.
Combat uses an initiative system using playing cards, where
each player draws a number of cards each turn. The basic rules
include seven races: humans, elves, dwarves, half-elves, mantids,
saurians and Atlanteans. It also includes a short section on Arcane
backgrounds and powers.
Scales
Croc
1993
Siroz
A French-language modern-day fantasy RPG, including Dragons,
Faeries, Alchemists, and Technomancers. The characters are part
of a group composed of one Dragon creature, and several seemingly
normal people, who in fact are of Faerie blood, and drawn to the
Dragon's magical abilities. Dragons collect magic, Faerie need it
to survive, and in contact with it, regain their former selves.
It uses a fairly simple d6-based system. Character creation is
point-based.
Scared Stiff: the B-Movie Horror Role-Playing Game
Gene Stanley Pritchard
Mike Demetro
2002
Guild Hall Press
A humorous RPG about B-movie Horror films. The PCs (known as
"Victims of Circumstance" or VCs) are rated in Flaws rather
than attributes, so that rather than Strength and Dexterity they
are rated in Weakness, Clumsiness, and Ignorance (Primary)
as well as Cowardice, Paranoia and Superstition (Secondary).
Action resolution is either dice-using or diceless. Dice rolling
is to roll over your modified Flaw rating on 2d6 to succeeed.
This is intended as the first of several B-movies backgrounds
using the "RPG-13" B-Movie game system.
Schimmen & Schaduwen
Foob
Koen De Waele
David Van Dijck
Dirk Vandenheuvel
1989
The Wise Tree
300
A Dutch-language fantasy RPG: "Shadows & Spectres".
The core rules contains the rules, background information, setting,
creatures, maps, 80 professions, 9 magic classes, and hundreds of
magic spells. It also contains 4 ready-to-play scenarios. There
were several adventure supplements released. It is being prepared
for release as a free download.
Scimitar
Ewan Murray
1998
Lance and Crown Games
A fantasy genre RPG set on an original feudal-era world, Thaythorn,
and published on CD-ROM. Thaythorn includes versions of Elf, Dwarf and
Goblin races -- as well as the reptilian Cy Kell, the canine Yarinese,
and the insectoid Ythari. It uses a simple skill-based system.
Action resolution is based on attribute + skill + 2d6 (where sixes
open-end) vs difficulty. There are four attributes (Strength,
Agility, Intellect, Presence), each of which have two sub-attributes.
Character creation is limited point-based.
Second Dawn
Art Wiederhold
George J. Herget
1982
Arrose Enterprises
A fantasy genre RPG with elements of sci-fi, inspired by
the <u>The Avenger of Thule</u> novel by Art Wiederhold.
The Secret Fire
George Strayton
2011
Secret Fire Games
An original game system derived from
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">
Dungeons & Dragons</a>, using the Open Game License.
The core rules have four classes and four races: cleric, warrior,
thief, wizard; and Dwarf, Elf, Human, Halfling. It adds rules
for Energy Points, which refresh each day and are used for
Special Effects such as pinning an opponent, re-casting a prayer,
and inflicting extra damage. In addition, each PC has a descriptive
Good trait, Neutral trait, and Evil trait - and regains Energy Points
based on expressing these. There are also five wound levels in addition
to hit point. Advancement is level-based, with the core rules only
covering up to level 10.
The Secret Lives of Gingerbread Men
Annie Rush
2004
Wicked Dead Brewing Company
A simple RPG suitable for children as well as adults. The PCs are
gingerbread men who become magically animated for the twelve days
prior to Christmas, who rush around the home, having adventures,
getting in and out of trouble. The setting includes a nasty cat,
a helpful but hungry dog, the King of the Rats, the Oracle atop the
refrigerator, and the Cookiesmith.
The Secret of Zir'An
Jason Armenta
Martin Caplan
Marcus Flores
Aram Gutowski
Chris Hockabout
2005
Paragon Games
White Wolf
288
A pulp fantasy RPG set on an original fantasy world, Zir'An,
dominated by magical technology including zeppelins, guns, and
so forth. It is in a state similar to the decade preceding
WWII. There are powerful beings called Fanes which have started to
dominate in the several millenia since the gods disappeared.
There is now an uneasy peace between a number of allied nations who
work together to keep the Fane dominated Tilerian Hegemony at bay.
There are also the independent and mercenary empires in the south,
and the Forsaken Lands such as The Periphery, a collection of islands
in the far south. It is inhabited by the dwarf-like Dolonorri,
the giant primitive Gogachi, the beast-like Neolli, the secretive
and immortal Zhalanti, as well as the human Ianers. It uses a simple
system which uses attribute + aptitude + 1d10 vs difficulty, where
the four-level skills (basic/advanced/expert/elite) can give an
automatic success. Character creation is by a point-based lifepath
system, which includes various packages representing different
nations and factions.
Secrets & Lies: A Hardboiled Detective Game
Daniel Bayn
2009
Bayn.org
30
A modern detective RPG. It uses a dice pool mechanic where the player
rolls a number of dice equal to their current stat plus optional "flop dice"
representing added difficulty. Any match among the stat dice, or
between flop dice and stat dice, indicates failure. A player can
remove one or two dice after rolling if the test relates to the
characters' defined "means" (character concept) or "motive" (primary
drive). A test can either be "soft-boiled" or "hard-boiled" - referring
to whether failure is a minor setback or a major problem. Stats to
test include the five attributes (Savvy, Moxie, Guts, Nerve, and Mojo)
as well as relationships. All stats and relationships start at 2, and
are temporarily increased in play ("taking a hit") until they are rolled.
Seeker the Role Playing Game
Brian St.Claire-King
2012
Vajra Enterprises
188
A modern-day magic RPG where the player characters are wandering
mystics on the back roads of the rural US. It uses ORC-L, a rules-lite
variant of the Organic Rule Components system used in
<a href="GAME#fatesworsethandeath">Fates Worse than Death</a>
and <a href="GAME#tibet">Tibet the RPG</a>.
Each character approaches enlightenment, self-improvement or wisdom
in a unique way, and gains unique abilities from it. The core rules
includes an introductory adventure, "Weaponized Honeybees".
Sengoku
Mark Arsenault
Anthony Bryant
1999
Gold Rush Games
Revised
2001
Gold Rush Games
A historical RPG set in 16th century Japan, with careful
attention dedicated to historical background and information. It
uses the <a href="GAME#fuzion">Fuzion</a> system.
Senzar
Todd King
Johnny Bruner
1995
Nova Eth Publications
A fantasy RPG set in a multiverse ("Senzar") with numerous
gods and immortals. It uses a variety of dice and mechanics
(similar to <a href="GAME#advanceddungeonsanddragons">AD&D</a>).
Combat is d20 + offense - defense : 9 or less misses, 20+ is a
critical hit. Character creation is class-based with point-bought
attributes, advantages, and disadvantages. Spell and combat
advancement is level-based (although skill and attribute
advancement is independent of this).
Septimus
Bill Coffin
2009
West End Games
Purgatory Publishing
364
A space opera game set inside a Dyson Sphere made by unknown aliens,
and inhabited by colonists from a crumbling human empire. The setting
includes elements of cyberpunk, transhumanism, and light mecha as well
as bits of fantasy. It uses a variant of the
<a href="GAME#d6">D6 System</a> from West End's Star Wars game,
including Fate Point instead of Force Points.
Serenity Roleplaying Game
Jamie Chambers
2005
Sovereign Press
A space opera RPG, adapted from the Firefly TV series and Serenity
feature film by Joss Whedon. It uses a system adapted from the
<a href="GAME#sovereignstone">Sovereign Stone</a>
fantasy game. Attributes and skills are rated in a a step die
system with twelve ranks: d2, d4, d6, d8, d10, d12, d12+d2, d12+d4,
d12+d6, d12+d8, d12+d10, d12+d12. Action resolution is by rolling
attribute die plus skill die. Characters have six attributes (Agility,
Strength, Vitality, Alertness, Intelligence, Willpower), along with
skills and advantages. It also includes a plot point mechanic.
Plot Points can be spent before a roll for an extra die (costing 1
per rank), after the roll to raise the total (costing 1 per +1),
or to manipulate the story (scaled from 1-3 for convenient coincidence
to 11+ for "saving your bacon").
Serial Homicide Unit
Michael S. Miller
Kat Miller
2008
Incarnadine Press
A modern-day criminal investigation RPG. The players role-play potential
victims of a serial killer at the same time as they play investigators
trying to catch the killer. They can create chains of evidence based
their role in the investigation. At the end of each turn, if they fail
to solve the crime, they must randomly open an envelope with the name
of one of the potential victims to determine who is murdered.
Seven Leagues: A fantasy roleplaying game of Faerie
Hieronymous
2002
Malcontent Games
126
A fairy-tale RPG including modern fantasy from magical realism to
gothic urban magick. It uses a simple system, called "Roll 13".
Resolution is by rolling 1d12 + attribute + modifiers, where a total
of 13 or higher is a success. Character creation is by choosing a
player-created descriptive Aspect (such as "a fairy princess" or
"a mighty warrior"), and distributing 13 points among the three
attributes (each rated 1 to 7): Head (mental), Heart (social/emotional),
and Hand (physical). Characters may also have a number of Charms
(magical abilities) equal to their lowest attribute, and optional Taboos
(i.e. limitations/hindrances which increase their number of Charms).
The Seventh Seal
Scott R. Mitchell
Edwyn Kumar
Mark Bruno
Scott Lynch
2002
Creative Illusions
Revised
2005
Morrigan Press
A modern-day fantasy RPG based on biblical mythology as presented in
the Book of Revelation. Six of the seven seals have been broken, and
demons are wandering the Earth in human guise seeking to bring about
the final apocalypse. The PC's are Sentinels: mortal guardians of
Heaven invested with supernatural powers. They are organized into
different celestial orders corresponding to the archangels (Michael,
Gabriel, etc.). It uses a dice pool system, where actions are resolved
by rolling over a target number on a number of d6's equal to attribute
plus skill. Character creation is limited point-based.
SewerSide: Are You Slimy Enough for the Sewers?
Ashok Desai
2003
Eldritch Design
n
A humorous scifi RPG published in electronic format, where the PCs are
hideous mutants banished to the sewers below a modern-day town. The
premise is that all ugly people were declared mutants and locked in
the sewers, and since radioactive waste was also dumped there, soon
there were even more hideous genuine mutants. There are eight strains
of mutant: Bloaters (overweight and bloated humanoids), Bugs (insectoid
monstrosities), Furries (humanoid animals prized as slaves by kinky
folks), Goops (big balls of boneless slime), Hissies (reptilian mutants),
Psychos (big-brained mutants with a knack for psychic powers), Skinbags
(incredibly skinny mutants whose skin sags around them like some sort
of cloak) and Sushi (fish people). There are a large assortment of
humorous mutations described. Action resolution is to roll (skill)
d10's and take the best, then add attribute. Character creation is
either random-roll or selected.
Sexy Deadly
Tony Dowler
2009
Planet Thirteen Games
22
A GMless competitive strategy card game with narrative and role-playing
elements, about female super-soldiers who have dedicated their life
to killing, espionage, disrupting and protecting conspiracies.
The Shab-al-Hiri Roach
Jason Morningstar
2006
Bully Pulpit Games
73
A darkly comedic horror one-shot role-playing game about an evil
Sumerian mind-controlling cockroach preying on the faculty in a
small New England university campus in 1919. It uses a GM-less
narrational system, where players compete to gain academic Reputation
by bidding to winning one of a series of narrated scenes, driven by
drawn cards. The winner of the scene is the one who rolls the
highest number on the dice. If you are possessed by the Roach, you
roll a massive d12. However, if you end the game possessed by the
Roach, you lose. To lose it, you have to regurgitate the Roach, by
subliming away something you care about, which makes your dice weaker.
The game comes with a packet of 40 cards and a rubber cockroach.
Shades of Earth: Earth History with a Twist
William Corrie III
2003
HinterWelt Enterprises
234
An alternate-history RPG with a percentile skill-based system
(the "Iridium System"), including a setting in 1938 Europe where
secret organizations use magic powers to prepare for the coming war.
Character creation includes random-roll attributes (best of 3d20 for
each of eleven attributes), followed by choosing one of 23 classes
which influence skills.
Shades of Fantasy
Steven Bode
1993
IDD Co.
A "High Fantasy" genre RPG, which attempts a medieval feel with
monotheistic religion and faerie influences. It includes 15
races including Fey Folk, Devilkin, Kobolds, Penitent Angels, and
Changelings. It uses a percentile skill-based system. Character
creation is random-roll attributes (modified by race), choice of
occupation or occupations, and point-bought skills and advantages.
Skills and advantages outside of your occupation cost double.
Shades of Heroes
Jason Kirby
Jason Thomas
Dean Meuggenburg
Shiree Nabours
Jon Kawa
Brian Henrikson
Jon Kawa
Jason Thomas
Dean Meuggenburg
1998
Argonaut Game Studios
A fantasy genre RPG.
The Shadow of Yesterday
Clinton Nixon
2004
Anvilwerks
Revised
2005
A sword-and-sorcery genre RPG which attempts to meld the standard
fantasy role-playing and "hard-charging narrative engine". It is
set in a post-apocalyptic fantasy world (known as "Near") where
the apocalyptic creation of a moon has ravaged cultures and thrown
the fate of the world into question.
Shadowrun
Bob Charrette
Paul Hume
Tom Dowd
1989
FASA
2nd
1992
3rd
1998
4th
2005
FanPro
A fantasy-cyberpunk game, set in a future where magic returns to
the Earth, and many people are transformed into elves, dwarves,
and trolls. It uses a dice-pool system, rolling d6's equal to
stat vs a target number of difficulty.
Shadow, Sword, & Spell
Richard Iorio II
James Maliszewski
2010
Rogue Games
A fantasy RPG emulating pulp fantasy writers like Robert E. Howard,
L. Sprague de Camp, and Fritz Leiber. It uses the 12° System also
used in <a href="GAME#colonialgothic">Colonial Gothic Revised</a>
and <a href="GAME#thousandsuns">Thousand Suns</a>.
Resolution is by rolling 2d12 under a target number found by adding
attribute + skill + modifiers. Character creation is limited point-based,
dividing 45 points among 5 attributes (Brawn, Quickness, Toughness, Wits,
and Will), creating freeform "Hook" that lets you earn action points
if brought up in the game, picking a Background option (Culture and Modifier),
and then buying skills.
S.H.A.L.T.
Brian F. Schreurs
Joshua D. Thompson
J.D. Falk
1988
Coltrane Publications
A humorous small-press sci-fi RPG, with 10 races including giant
Neptunian Space Bears. It uses a minimalist system.
Shambles
Duane O'Brien
2005
a terrible idea
56
A humorous horror-parody RPG where the player characters are all zombies,
who one day simply woke up dead with a craving for brains. It is played
in one of three modes: "Fast Food Zombie Fun", "I Want My Life Back",
and "Feeding Frenzy". It uses a simple dice pool system called LAFFS,
for "Light, Adaptable, Fast, Flexible." Each character has six stats:
Lurch, Flail, Clutch, Brawn, Chuck, and Sense. Resolution is based on
rolling a number of d6s equal to stat, where each die over the difficulty
is a success. Players can modify their own or others' rolls by spending
LAFF points, earned by making the GM laugh. Zombie characters generally
lose 1 hit point per day unless they eat human brains. The basic game
also includes overviews of 6 agencies and organizations that oppose or
aid (!) zombies.
The Shard RPG
unknown
2008
Shard Studios
A fantasy-genre RPG set on an Eastern-themed world inhabited by
anthropomorphic animals, known as Dardünah or the World of the
False Dawn. It uses a d6 dice-pool system, where you roll a number
of d6s equal to skill minus difficulty, and each die result of
a 4, 5, or 6 is a success. It includes a ritual magic system.
Shards of the Stone
Jared Nielson
Sean Patrick Fannon
2000
Obsidian Studios
Jared Nielson
2001
InterStrike, Inc.
A fantasy-genre RPG using the <a href="GAME#fuzion">Fuzion</a>
system. The setting is a multiverse where a primordial stone
shattered into 25 elements: including Air, Earth, Fire, and Water
but also Law, Creativity, and Love. These elements can be
physically mined, grown, and so forth from the worlds which
resulted from the shattering. There are usual races of elves,
dwarves, orcs, ogres, and goblins -- plus winged folk,
reptile-men, and beast-men. cf. the
<a href="http://www.shardsofthestone.com">official website</a>.
Shattered Dreams
Matthew D. Grau
Christopher Dorn
Timothy R. Erickson
Lance P. Johnstone
1994
Apex Publications Inc
A horror RPG set in a dream-world, where Nightmares are evil
beings that creep into our minds when our souls are bared and
corrupt our beings. The PC's are Dreamwalkers who have powers
within the dreamworld. There were 3 supplements/adventure books:
"Awake and Alone", "Liquid Dreams", and "Of Sound Mind".
The Shattered Sky
Paul Lucas
1997
Propaganda Publishing
A science fantasy RPG set in the shards of a Dyson Sphere which
was broken 5000 years ago, with distances measured in "Earths".
It includes aliens, centaurs, talking dolphins, and orcs: all
created using genotech and "uplift." The magic is ostensibly
based on nanotechnology. The system is percentile-based.
Shatterzone
Ed Stark
1993
West End Games
A cyberpunk space opera game, set in the late 25th century after
the accidental discovery of an unexplainable phenomena called the
"Shatterzone". Space is controlled by the monolithic Consortium
and Fleet, along with various megacorporations. It uses a
variant of the <a href="GAME#torg">Torg</a> system, with modified
Drama Deck, and rules for psionics, aliens, and space combat.
Sherlock Holmes and the Case of the Dead Duke
Chris Engle
2005
Hamster Press
96
A pregenerated scenario book using the minimalist Engle Matrix Game
system. This includes several murder mystery scenarios where
the players are Sherlock Holmes and associates. The system has
explicit negotiation of arguments and results, but leaves the
chances for the negotiated outcomes entirely up to the GM.
Shields of Power
McLellend
Jacobsen
1990
Shield Maiden
A fantasy genre RPG. Reviewed in White Wolf #25.
Shin-en
unknown
unknown
Suzaku Games
A Japanese-language fantasy-genre RPG.
Shock: Social Science Fiction
Joshua A.C. Newman
2006
The Glyph Press
1.1
2007
1.2
2009
A GM-less sci-fi RPG about the clash of technology upon human society.
It has no background, but instead players define a world starting with
defining a set of two social or personal concerns (Issues) and two
revolutionary developments (Shocks) that are the themes of the game.
Character creation sets up player characters (Protagonists), and then
player sitting to the right of each Protagonist creates and controls
the Antagonist, acting as GM. Protagonists are creates by defining
2 Praxis, 3 Features, 2 Links, and 1 Story Goal. The Praxis are
each a pair of two themes such as "buying vs. selling" or
"help vs. hurt" rated from 1 to 10. The Features, Links, and
Story Goal are numberless, player-defined traits. Resolution always
defines two non-mutually intents between Protagonist and Antagonist,
trying to succeed by rolling on a chosen Praxis scale. The Protagonist
rolls a number of dice equal to the number of applicable Features.
These can either be d10s to succeed on their own Praxis scale, or d4s
to modify the opponent's roll. For both, if rolling multiple dice
the player can choose which to use.
Shock:Human Contact
Joshua A.C. Newman
2010
The Glyph Press
A near-future sci-fi RPG about a interstellar contact ship that makes
first contact with a lost colony of humans in another star system,
a variant of the game
<a href="GAME#shock">Shock: Social Science Fiction</a>.
It defines more closely the shocks to be dealt with and the phases of
play than the original game. Play begins with life on the contact ship,
which takes five years to reach its destination. Second is designing
the geography, culture, and language of the colony. The third is first
contact, which could use a three person envoy team or could use the
entire 100 person contactor.
Shooting the Moon
Emily Care Boss
2006
Black & Green Games
A GM-less game of romantic rivalry for two or three players, where two
rival players compete for the affections of a third. Pitched as a
"sequel" to an earlier romantic game,
<a href="GAME#breakingtheice">Breaking the Ice</a>.
Shotgun Diaries
John Wick
2009
Wicked Dead Brewing Company
18
A zombie survival horror mini roleplaying game, using an early version
of a new "FEAR" system. Character creation is by picking an archetype -
such as Fast Survivor, Strong Survivor, etc. Resolution uses a simple
dice pool where the players rolls a number of d6s based on their character,
plus any dice taken from the shared pool, and a bonus die for every
character they are with. If the player rolls a 6 on any die, they
narrate what happens. Otherwise, the GM does. There is also a Zombie
Clock mechanic, which advances every 10 minutes to increase the zombie
threat; and a fear mechanic.
Signature
Michael Mendoza
2007
44 Productions
64
A simple diceless system intended for quick play, easily customized
to different settings. It has player-created traits rated from 1 to 3,
with 0 being the default. Action resolution is by comparing the higher
of trait or modifiers against difficulty or opposing trait. This is
modified by spending "Wild Points". The effect of success depends on
whether the game is in Narrativist, Gamist, or Simulationist mode.
The book is self-published via print-on-demand service
<a href="http://www.lulu.com/content/639913">Lulu.com</a>.
Sign in Stranger
Emily Care Boss
2009
Black & Green Games
64
A science fiction storytelling game for 2-3 players about first contact
of humanity with aliens. The aliens are created during play by the
players, by randomly drawing from a set of words submitted by the
players at the start of the game.
I Signori Del Caos
Giovanna Maselli
Auro Miselli
Franco Tralli
1983
Black-Out
An Italian-language medieval fantasy RPG, and the first Italian RPG.
The setting is reminescent of Lone Wolf. The title translates as
"The Lords of Chaos".
Silex et Mammouths
unknown
unknown
unknown
A French-language prehistoric RPG, published by a gaming club in
Paris.
Silhouette CORE Rules
Marc A. Vézina
Paul Lippincott
2003
Dream Pod 9
224
A universal system. It uses a dice pool, rolling a number of d6's
equal to your skill and taking the highest value (each extra six adds one
to the result, so two sixes would have a total of seven). Action
resolution is attribute plus the skill total vs difficulty.
The margin of success or failure is very important in the Silhouette game;
in combat, for instance, damage is multiplied by the margin of success,
and illnesses and poisons have increasingly severe effects as the margin
of failure increases.
Silver Age Sentinels
Stephen Kenson
Mark C. MacKinnon
Jeff Mackintosh
Jesse Scoble
2002
Guardians of Order
A superhero RPG set on an original world setting, where superpowered
heroes appeared starting in 1942, when an atomic energy test created
"Sentinel". It uses a variant of the Tri-Stat system from
<a href="GAME#bigeyessmallmouth">Big Eyes, Small Mouth</a>,
with three core attributes of Body, Mind, and Soul.
Simian Conquest
Marshall Rose
Norman Knight
1978
Avant-Garde Simulations Perspetives
A sci-fi RPG inspired by the <u>Planet of the Apes</u> movie
series. PC's can be Apes, native Humans, Mutants or Astronauts.
The system concentrates on combat and campaign battles.
Simply Roleplaying
Bob Portnell
Guy McLimore
1999
Microtactix Games
132
A universal RPG system, published in electronic format. It is a
skill-based system, rolling 2d10 under skill for action resolution.
Characters are limited point-bought, with a random number of
attribute points, and skill points which depend on age group.
There are also advantages and disadvantages which must be balanced
(i.e a 1pt advantage requires a 1pt disadvantages).
Simulacres
Pierre Rosenthal
1986
self-published
"La fleur de l'Asiamar"
1987
3rd
1988
self-published
4th
1989
Casus Belli magazine
5th
1994
Casus Belli magazine
A French-language universal RPG system. It is released under an
open license allowing anyone to use it for their rulebook.
Official games released using Simulacres system include
"Aventures Extraordinaires" (by Tristan Lhomme -- Victorian
sci-fi), "Capitaine Vaudou" (by J.P. Pecau -- pirates with voodoo
magic), "Cyber Age" (by Pierre Rosenthal -- cyberpunk) and "Sang
Dragon" (by Pierre Rosenthal -- heroic fantasy). There are also
a number of unofficial games, aided by the open license.
Simulacron I
Mark Manning
1982
Simulacron I
200
A small-press universal RPG system. It uses five Basic Statistics and
a large set of Abilities (i.e. skills). Stats started at 1 and cost
the level squared in experience to increase. Characters start with
one Ability, and additional Abilities are gained as the Knowledge
stat is increased. Action resolution uses 1d20.
Sine Requie
Matteo Cortini
Leonardo Moretti
2003
Rose and Poison
Year XIII
2007
Asterion Press
An Italian-language horror RPG set in an alternate history of 1954,
where during D-Day in 1944 the dead woke up and started killing and
eating the human race. WWII ends with the Germans calling
themselves winners after a coup d'etat where Hitler and the
other leader are killed. The Fourth Reich covers most of Europe.
In Italy, Pope Leone XIII becomes the governor and returns
the Inquisition, which bans most technological items.
In the USSR, the cities have become iron fortress and half-men/
half-machines are created to work at the orders of ZAR, the main
computer. It uses a Tarot-based system, which can be either a
storytelling game (using only the Major arcana) or as a traditional
RPG (using cards instead of dice).
Sixcess
Benjamin Rogers
Ren
2013
Harsh Realities
300
A universal system using dice-pool resolution, rolling d6s equal to
attribute + skill, where every result over the target number (TN) is
one success, and every six rolled is five successes. Character
generation uses a point-based "priority" system.
six gun assassins
Andrew Lucas
2006
Rebel Minis
17
A miniatures combat and mini-RPG set in the American Wild West.
The system is "Place & Play" rules.
Skæbner og Skatte
unknown
1986
unknown
A Danish-language RPG, whose title translates as "Destinies and
Treasures". It comes as a box-set with 3 small booklets (A5 size),
dices, and a overhead-pen and coated hexagonal sheet (which was actually
the inside of the box). It includes a pulp genre introductory scenario
of a white explorer in the jungle, but also supports medieval scenarios.
Sketch!
Seth Johnson
Brian Schomburg
2000
Corsair Publishing
A humorous mini-RPG (48-page comic format) where the players play
"Costumes" -- superpowered entertainers on the planet Sketch.
Character creation is by the player drawing the character, or
at least copying bits of clip art (provided with the book).
The other players then judge how badass the sketched character
looks.
Skuggornas Mästare
Gunilla Jonsson
Mikael Petersén
1988
Ragnarök
"Master of the Shadows" -- a Swedish-language modern-day
espionage RPG. It uses the same game system found in
<a href="GAME#engarderagnarok">En Garde</a>. The PC's are
agents, crimefighters, or something similar, all having a secret
background.
Skull & Bones
T.S. Luikart
Gareth-Michael Skarka
Ian Sturrock
2003
Green Ronin Publishing
192
A swashbuckling RPG set in the golden age of piracy in the Carribean,
using a variant of the D20 System from 3rd edition
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a>.
It adds options to character generation for backgrounds and "fortunes" --
a simple advantage/disadvantage system. There are four new core
classes: Buccaneers, Sea Dogs, Shantymen (musicians), Bokors
(magicians), and Hougans (magicians). There are also six new
prestige classes: three fencers, two sailing (Officers and
Warrant Officers), and the Mystic Navigator. It has variant
rules for cinematic fighting (adding a parry maneuver), and
damage (which is applied first to a character's hit points, and
then to their constitution).
Skull and Crossbones
Gerald D. Seypura
Anthony LeBoutillier
1980
FGU
A pirate RPG set in the 17th century Caribbean. It includes
man-to-man and ship-to-ship combat.
Skymningshem: Andra Imperiet
Krister Sundelin
Simon J Berger
Fredrik Ostrozansky
2005
Rävsvans Förlag
A science fiction game that draws inspiration from space opera, wuxia and anime. It uses an improved version of the system in <a href="GAME#vastmark">Västmark</a>.
Skyrealms of Jorune
Andrew Leker
Miles Teves
Amy Leker
1985
Skyrealms Publishing
2nd
1986
3rd
1992
Chessex
A science-fantasy game with a unique setting, a detailed alien
world with marooned human colonists. Emphasis is put on the
unique races and culture, a mix of humans, human-created sentient
animals, and aliens. There is a "magic" of manipulating Isho
energy which flows through this world, along with remnant
technology. The system is skill-based, changing with editions.
SLA Industries
Dave Allsop
Tim Dedopulos
Jared Earle
1993
Nightfall
2nd
Dave Allsop
Tim Dedopulos
Jared Earle
Anne Boylan
Morton T. Smith
2000
Hogshead Games
A science fantasy RPG of futuristic urban horror, set in a
distant future (the "World of Progress") where an amoral arms
corporation ("SLA Industries") has taken over the universe,
headed by a power being named "Slayer". PC's work as agents for
the company, based on the world-city "Mort". There are 7 races,
including users of "The Ebb" -- a magical power that permeates
the universe. The system uses 2d10+skill+modifiers to determine
success (11+ is a success, 21+ is a notable success). Character
creation uses race (1 of 7) and career (1 of 9) templates
followed by point allocation. The 2nd edition is largely a
reprint of the original with errors corrected, more fiction
and art, and a new index.
Sláine: The Role Playing Game of Celtic Heroes
Ian Sturrock
2002
Mongoose Publishing
192
RuneQuest Slaine
Aaron Dembski-Bowden
2007
Mongoose Publishing
236
A fantasy RPG set in Tir Nan Og, a land of ancient Celtic legends
mixed with prehistoric fact, an adaptation of the comic book
series. The PCs are members of the Tribes of the Earth Goddess,
called on to raid or war against rival tribes, quest after ancient
treasures, or defend their lands against invading sea-devils. The
rules are a variant of the D20 System from 3rd edition
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a>,
and require the core D&D rules for character creation
and combat, as well as many skill and feat descriptions.
It uses an alternate magic system where characters pay in "Earth
Points" for spells cast, and spells are broken down according to
their cost instead of level.
Slammin
Jackson Tegu
2012
self-published
A satirical GM-less mini-RPG where the player characters are all douche-bag
hipsters trying to look cool and hook up over a week - Tuesday through
Saturday. Each player chooses a playbook at the beginning of the game,
but they are all identical: The Hipster. Actions may result in gains
like "improve your look", or "change your jam", etc. Published with
two other mini-RPGs: Tower of Hats and Superhero.
Slasher Flick
Cynthia Celeste Miller
2009
Spectrum Game Studios
111
A horror RPG emulating slasher films, where the players have
primary characters as well as secondary characters who are all
potential victims of the psycho killer(s). Secondary characters
are created by a group process. Characters have four stats (Brawn,
Finesse, Brains, and Spirit) that have trinary ratings (Poor,
Normal, or Good). Combat (or "kill scenes") uses stat checks to
measure loss or gain of survival points. Players can al also gain
"genre points" for playing to the conventions of the genre, that
can be used later to help.
S/lay W/Me
Ron Edwards
2009
Adept Press
28
A two-player storytelling game of a short sword and sorcery tale
involving a monster and a lover. The two players are "You" (who
creates and plays the hero) and "I" (who creates and plays a lover
and a monster). Character creation is quick - the "You" player
reads a ritual statement, then chooses a brief character concept
and adds a ten-word description of the Hero's physical appearance.
"You" then chooses a general setting from a list of one-line
descriptions and a Goal for the Hero. The "I" player then fleshes
out the setting, and creates a lover and a monster for the Hero to
deal with. "I" also sets a Lover score (the number of times the
player can script "Go" events aimed at the lover) and a Monster
Score (the number of dice "I" can roll before the "Match" ends).
S.L.U.G.S. (Satanic, Loathable, Unwholesome Game System)
Gregory Donner
1994
Donner Party Press
16
A tongue-in-cheek mini-RPG where the player characters are members of an organization called
P.E.A.C.E. (People of Evil Allied for the Corruption of Everything), with the goal of
reaching -1000 Karma, at which point they descend into Hell and become a lesser demon.
The cover featured a cheerleader with horns and pointy ears with "P.E.A.C.E." written
on her sweater. It uses percentile-based system, with mechanics based on rolling under the
appropriate attribute to succeed in an action (a Feat). The attributes are Brains, Charm,
Combat, Constitution, and Piety. Personality Qualities are the seven deadly sins, also rated
as percentiles. If a Personality Trait is 75+, a player has to fail that Trait to avoid
indulging whenever possible. Each character gets a Talent, which adds +30 to an appropriate
stat when attempting an action.
Small Space
Denton R. Elliot
1985
Doc's Games
A sci-fi mini-RPG from the publisher of <a href="GAME#dinkydungeons">
Dinky Dungeons</a>, published in a 3''x5'' ziplock bag(!).
It uses the same system, expanded by skills. The system has
binary skills which are bought using points based on your
attributes (Physical Points equal to your Physical, Mental Points
equal to your Mental). It also adds spaceship generation and
combat rules, futuristic weapons, invention rules, alien races,
planet generation, and initiative rules.
Smallville Roleplaying Game
Cam Banks
Joseph Blomquist
Mary Blomquist
Roberta Olson
Josh Roby
Amanda Valentine
2010
Margaret Weis Productions
A superhero roleplaying game based on the television series, using
a non-traditional variant on Margaret Weis Productions' Cortex system
called "Cortex Plus". The six core attributes for characters are different
personal values: Duty, Glory, Justice, Love, Power, and Truth. Rather
than skills, characters have rated Relationships with other PCs as well
as significant NPCs. Both Values and Relationships are rated on a step
die system from d4 through d12. There is also a system of Plot Points.
Soap: The Game of Soap Opera Mayhem
1st electronic
Ferry Bazelmans
2002
Blacklight Publishing
31 PDF
1st print
Ferry Bazelmans
W. Jason Peck
Aldo Ghiozzi
2003
Wingnut Games
24
A storytelling mini-RPG which is played for 60 minutes at a
time. Each player takes a character in a soap opera, with five words
as traits. There is no GM, but instead there are rules for
entering a Scene, adding sentences, and so forth by spending
Plot Tokens. Originally published electronically as a 31-page PDF
file, then in print as a 24-page illustrated booklet.
Society of Dreamers
Matthijs Holter
2010
self-published
A historical fantasy RPG set somewhere in Europe sometime in the 1800s,
where player characters are members of a society searching for creatures
called mnemosites ("dream eaters"). During a single session, players
play out the entire lives of their characters, and the fate of their
society. Play is largely freeform, using a set of scribbled notes
and a board containing nine fields that an object is moved between.
Character creation works by each player writing 8 notes: two each of
gender, age, nationality and profession. These are collected into
four heaps, from which each player draws one. After that, two scenes
for each player are played, dealing with childhood and adolescence
to complete the characters. During regular play, players take turns
setting new scenes within bounds given by the game board and accompanying
notes. The book is self-published through
<a href="http://www.lulu.com/content/1114579">Lulu.com</a>,
and detailed on the
<a href="http://www.societyofdreamers.com">official website</a>.
Söhne des Lichts
Michael Schröder
Tim Wehle
1990
Verlag M. Wehle
"Sons of the Light" -- a German-language medieval fantasy RPG,
set on an original world. Besides the usual races it also has
centaurs and giants.
SOL
Keith W. Sears
1994
Heraldic
A universal RPG system which uses logarithmic scales ("levels"
similar to <a href="GAME#dcheroes">DC Heroes</a> AP's) and a simple
stat + d10 versus difficulty for resolution. Character creation
is point-bought skills, powers, advantages, and disadvantages.
Solar System
Clinton R. Nixon
2008
Arkenstone Publishing
An universal system based on the rules from the fantasy RPG,
<a href="GAME#shadowofyesterday">The Shadow of Yesterday</a>.
Solipsist: A Role-Playing Game About Changing Reality
David Donachie
2008
Solipsist RPGs
BoxNinja
A modern fantasy role-playing game where the player characters are
special people who can change reality, called "solipsists". They
fight Shadows, creatures who are trying to un-make all of reality.
It uses a narrative system where players may declare scenes and
background facts, but sometimes at the risk of causing damaging
"tears" in reality. Player characters are defined by a Vision,
a list of Obsessions, and a list of Limitations.
Sol Levante
Eugenio Maria Lauro
1998
Qualitygame
An Italian-language historical RPG set in feudal Japan, part of
the "I Giochi del 2000" collection. The title translates as
"Rising Sun".
Sombre Cauchemar
P. N. Lapointe
unknown
Lapointe
"Dark Nightmare" -- A French-language horror RPG.
A Song of Ice and Fire Roleplaying
Robert J. Schwalb
2009
Green Ronin Publishing
224
A Game of Thrones
2012
320
A fantasy RPG set in the world of George R.R. Martin's novel series of
the same name, set in the region of Westeros in a time shortly before
the chaotic events of the series. The player characters are all members
of a minor noble house or their retainers. The group first creates stats
and features of the house itself, then create characters as members of
that house. The rules are the "Chronicle System". Resolution is by
rolling a number of d6s equal to attribute plus skill, then keeping
and totaling a number of dice equal to attribute.
Sons of Liberty
Joshua BishopRoby
2008
Kallisti Press
160
A game set in a tongue-in-cheek parallel history where the American
Revolutionary War is being fought with clockwork powered armor,
ornithopters, and two-fisted brawling as well as muskets. It uses
a GMless system using playing cards. Each game begins at the
secret Grand Lodge of the Americas, where the characters recieve
a coded message about British movements. The players draw 5 cards
and read their meaning on a series of table as an adventure starter.
They then pick from pregenerated characters of Founding Fathers such
as George Washington, Alexander Hamilton, and Benjamin Franklin - with
one player taking the Tories. Each turn, a player lays down cards
from their hand and begins to narrate a scene - limited by the card
suit that specifies type of action. Other players can play cards to
add to or alter that narrative.
Soothsayer
"sjb"
1997
Critical Mass
A universal RPG system intended for "futuristic high fantasy",
including a psionics system but no background with the basic
game. The system uses d10 vs (difficulty minus skill), modified
by an attribute bonus from a table. Character creation uses
random-roll or point-based attributes, including "caste" of
Status, Education, and Experience which determine skill slots.
Sorcerer RPG
1st Electronic
Ron Edwards
1998
Adept Press
1st Print
2001
A modern-day magic RPG. The first edition was published electronically
(a free 16-page "Apprentice" version is available), while a printed
version was later released. The PCs are secret sorcerers who accomplish
magic solely by calling and binding demons. Each demon has its own
special abilities and goals. It may be bound into a ring or weapon,
appear humanlike, or be a parasite to a host. The system is
minimalist, using a highest-roll dice pool.
S.O.R.D.: System of Role Development
Scott J. Compton
1998
Fractal Dimensions
A universal RPG using a skill-based system, with some skill
restrictions from chosen Culture and Profession. Resolution is
by rolling d20 under skill. Combat uses a d20 somewhat
differently (to-hit depends on attribute, while damage is
modified by skill).
Sovereign Stone
Don Perrin
Lester Smith
1999
Sovereign Press
2nd
2000
A fantasy-genre game envisioned by Larry Elmore, set in his
fantasy world Loerem. It uses a fairly simple skill-based
system, rolling an Attribute die (d4 thru d10) plus a Skill die
versus difficulty.
So Ya Wanna Be A Rock N' Roll Star!
Bill Barton
1991
Bill Barton Games
A humorous look at the music industry. Players get
to create rock n' roll musicians, join a band, and work their
way through wacky encounters. Features include a band name
generator, NPC generation for groupies and others, and
several scenarios.
Space:1889
Frank Chadwick
1988
GDW
A Victorian sci-fi game, in an alternate history where "ether
flyers" allows steam-powered spaceships to colonize desert-like
Mars and jungle-laden Venus. An excellent background which draws
on a number of Victorian ideals.
Space Delirium
P.N. Lapointe
unknown
Lapointe
A French-language space opera RPG.
Spacefarers: Rules for Science Fiction Skirmish Adventures
Bryan Ansell
Richard Halliwell
Tony Ackland
Richard Priestly
1981
Games Workshop
A sci-fi miniatures combat system, a predecessor of the
<u>Warhammer 40K</u> miniature line.
Space Gothic
Gerhard Winkler
Michael Greiss
1993
Fantastische Spiele GdbR
2nd
1997
A German-language sci-fi/horror RPG, set in the year 2245.
After a devastating war of megacorporations, Prometheus Technical
Industries (PTI) has absolute power over the colonies of the
Terran Union. The armed forces of the space navy were displaced
into the external colonies and organized along feudal lines with
knights. There are strange races, whose existence is denied by
the totalitarian government. It uses a complex percentile system.
Character creation is class-based, with 20 classes. It uses
random-roll attributes and point-bought skills.
Space Infantry
Daniel Douglas Hutto
Roger Allen Esnard
1982
D&R Game Design
68
A spacefaring military sci-fi RPG, where PC's are space cadets in
military service.
Space Master
Terry Amthor
Kevin Barrett
1986
Iron Crown Enterprises
2nd
1988
A generic sci-fi RPG system, using a variant of the
<a href="GAME#rolemaster">Rolemaster</a> system.
SpaceNinjaCyberCrisis XDO
Matt Johnston
John Fleming
Colin Johnston
Eamon Watters
Mark Lamki
Lesley McLarnon
1997
Crucible
A sci-fi pocket RPG set in a crime-ridden world filled with anime
and manga conventions, including giant robot warriors, demons,
and two alien races. It also includes background for the city of
San Metro in 2019, site of an interstellar and interdimensional
war. It uses a simple skill-based system that includes
cyberware and mecha.
Space Opera
Ed Simbalist
A. Mark Ratner
Phil McGregor
1980
FGU
A semi-generic sci-fi game, intended to simulate several space
opera subgenres (i.e. Star Wars, Star Trek, Lensmen, etc.)
The system is fairly complex and detailed, but there is a lot
of coverage of elements like psionics, worlds, equipment,
starships, etc.
Space Quest
Paul Hume
George Nyhen
1977
Tyr Gamemakers Ltd
110 digest-sized
A spacefaring sci-fi RPG. It uses a d30-based system with class-based
character creation and level-based advancement. The basic system includes
six classes (spacers, warriors, mutates/psionics, technics, or
biotechs) and three races. The basic system also includes random
star system generation, though based on the erroneous Bode's Law.
SPACERS
Tom K. Loney
2007
Peryton Publishing
20
A retro sci-fi game using the minimalist TAG (Tom's Adventure Gaming)
system. Resolution uses 2d6 against a target number of difficulty
minus attribute. Character creation includes races of human or android;
along with character classes including Spacer, FreeFall Brawler,
Scientist, and Psychic. There are eight attributes, each determined
by 4d6 (Strength, Constitution, Speed, Dexterity, Intelligence, Luck,
Will, and Charisma).
Spaceship Zero: The Sci-Fi Serial Roleplaying Game
Toren Atkinson
Warren Banks
2002
Green Ronin Publishing
192 pages b&w softcover
A 50's style swashbuckling space adventure RPG, based on the cult
TV series and the movie from Titan Entertainment. A group of brave
test pilots take the world's first "Better-Than-Light" drive ship for
a spin around the galaxy. Everything that can go wrong does, leaving
the crew stranded in a twisted mirror universe, low on supplies and
beset by dangerous aliens who seek their technological secrets.
It uses a percentile skill-based system: roll under skill on 1d100,
where the roll itself indicates degree of success. In addition,
players have a limited number of "zero dice" which can be used
to alter rolls. Character creation is limited-point based,
using 15 archetypes for ship roles. The archetype limits
attributes and skills, which are point-bought, and provides
a Specialty Perk: a cinematic powers usable once per session.
Spacetime
Greg Porter
1988
BTRC
A cyberpunk RPG, set in a dark urban future ruled by
interplanetary corporations. It uses a variant of the
<a href="GAME#timelords">Timelords</a> system.
Spawn of Fashan
Kirby Lee Davis
1981
Games of Fashan
A small-press fantasy-genre RPG, generally held to be a parody of
other RPGs in its pointless complexity and bizarre tables. It
is set in the land of "Boosboodle", inhabited by monsters like
"makl", "foklom", "finikor", and "rolmtrokl". Over 20 monster
names are listed, but only 7 are described. Character creation
involves over 50 statistics and numerous randomly-rolled ads and
disads.
Sphinx
John Stowe
1984
Seventh Scarab
100
A British historical/fantasy RPG set in ancient Egypt. The system
is class-based, including over 50 classes. It also includes a
large-scale combat system, and rules for reincarnation and dreaming.
Spirit of the Century
Rob Donaghue
Fred Hicks
Leonard Balsera
2006
Evil Hat Productions
A game about 1920s pulp genre heroes. It is set just after the Great War,
and the PCs are members of the "Century Club" of adventurers whose elder
members are dying off. It uses a variant of the FATE system
(Fantastic Adventures in Tabletop Entertainment), known as FATE 3.0.
FATE is itself a free variant of the
<a href="GAME#fudge">Fudge</a> system, available for
download. It adds Aspects and other narrative mechanics to the
rules.
Splatter
Thord Daniel Hedengren
2002
Alltid Attack
A Swedish-language horror RPG, in a generic setting.
Splicers
Carmen Bellaire
2004
Palladium Books
224
A post-apocalyptic science fiction game, set on a world (which may or
may not be Earth) where an artificial intelligence named "NEXUS" went
rogue and infected humanity with a nanobot plague that turns all metal
into killing machines. Humanity survived by developing biotechnology,
in particular armored "biosuits" with military capabilities. It uses
a variant of the
<a href="GAME#palladiumfantasy">Palladium FRPG</a> system,
which is level and class based, with percentile attributes and skills.
The basic game covers different classes describing different variants
of biosuits and their pilots. Classes include Archangels (with flying
biosuits), Biotics (criminals rebuilt as biotech cyborgs), Dreadguard
(chivalrous knights), Outriders (bonded to a biotech mount),
Packmasters (bonded to a pack of augmented dogs), Roughnecks
(infantry troops), Saints (self-sacrificing healers),
Scarecrows (augmented but chemically-addicted), Skinjobs (humans with
augmented stealth via alien skins), and Technojackers (immune to the
nanobot plague due to helpful nanites).
Spookshow
Aaron Rosenberg
1998
Clockworks Games
A supernatural espionage RPG, where ghosts are recruited to work
as spies! It uses a simple stat+die vs difficulty system, with a
twist that sometimes you use d10s for mental/spiritual/ghosty
powers and d6s for other rolls. There are also various dangers
of "freezing up" one side of your ability (resisted by a "Control
Check") -- rolling a 1, say, or perhaps you face the thing that
killed you.
Spycraft
Patrick Kapera
Kevin Wilson
Scott Gearin
2002
Alderac Entertainment Group
2.0
Alex Flagg
Patrick Kapera
Scott Gearin
2007
Mongoose Publishing
A modern-day superspy game in the genre of James Bond and
Mission: Impossible. The rules are a variant of the D20 System from
3rd edition <a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a>.
The core book include complete, self-contained skill and feat listings
as well as combat rules, but rely on core rules from standalone
D20 System games for a few essentials of character creation and
advancement.
Squirrel Attack!
William Corrie III
2005
HinterWelt Enterprises
60
A humorous RPG about squirrels from the magical kingdom of Nuttopia
who are on a secret mission to raid the Mortal World in search of
nuts ("Operation: Get Mr. Jones' Nuts"). It uses the "Iridium Lite"
system, which is a simplified version of the "Iridium" system that
originally appeared in
<a href="GAME#talesofgaea">Tales of Gaea</a>.
Resolution is roll under skill + aptitude + stat on 1d20.
Character creation is limited point-based: distribute 60 points
to statistics; choose career, skills, and powers. The basic game
includes maps of of Nuttopia, Mr. Jones' grove, house and buildings;
plus six pre-generated characters with individual goals.
Stalker - The SciFi Roleplaying Game
1st Finnish
Ville Vuorela
2008
Burger Games
1st English
Ville Vuorela
2012
Burger Games
A post-apocalyptic sci-fi RPG, based on the novel Roadside Picnic by
Arkady and Boris Strugatsky. Alien visitation has created numerous
Zones dozens of kilometers across, where physical reality has changed
and various artifacts are scattered. Teams of Stalkers travel into
the Zones to recover artifacts, but they risk being destroyed by
anomalies within. It uses a diceless system called the FLOW system.
Resolution works by the GM assigning Idea and Roleplay values to the
action based on player's description. Both values get a +1 if the
character has an applicable ability. The two values are then
multiplied, and if the product is higher than the target number,
the task succeeds.
Star Ace
Mark Acres
Gali Sanchez
1984
Pacesetter
A space opera RPG where humans, bear-men, and cat-men are allied
against an oppressive Empire of pig-men and lizard-men. It uses
a variant of the <a href="GAME#chill">Chill</a> rules.
Starblazer Adventures
Chris Birch
2008
Cubicle 7 Entertainment Limited
A science fiction game based on the British sci-fi comic series by
DC Thompson, published in the 1970's thru early 1990's. It uses a variant
of the FATE system (Fantastic Adventures in Tabletop Entertainment) from
<a href="GAME#spiritofthecentury">Spirit of the Century</a>.
Starchildren: Velvet Generation
Richard Ranallo
Scott Leaton
2002
XIG Games
128
A sci-fi RPG set in 2073, in a future where the Ministries of Culture
have repressed rock & roll and other possibly violent influences
following a catastrophic world world. However, aliens ("Starchildren")
arrive in 2071, inspired by the radio transmissions of the prior century.
The PCs are humans and starchildren who have gathered as underground
rock & roll bands who oppose the ministries. It uses a system
based on playing cards. The eight attributes and related skills each
have a card rank and an associated suit. The player has a hand of
five cards where only the suit played matters. Resolution test is made
by comparing a random draw versus the attribute or skill, modified
based on the suit of the card played from the player's hand.
Character creation is limited point-based, with advantages and
disadvantages.
Starcluster Role-Playing Game
clash bowley
2002
Flying Mice LLC
128
A space opera RPG originally published as an electronic download, set
in a cluster of stars several hundred years after refugees from Earth
first settled there. The first colonists arrived in huge slower-than-light
multi-generation spaceships which spread over dozens out of hundreds
of worlds. Since arriving, some have discovered anti-gravity and FTL
travel, contacted several alien races, and become one of the dominant
races. The original edition uses a percentile skill-based system,
while later editions use a dice pool system called the StarPool system.
In StarPool, resolution is by rolling d20s equal to skill rating, where
every die under attribute is counted as a success. Character creation
has random-roll attributes and a lifepath mechanic for each year over
10, which generates skills, metaskills, and attribute improvements.
Starfaring
Ken St. Andre
1976
Flying Buffalo
A humorous spacefaring sci-fi RPG -- the first ever published.
The is a 56-page booklet (8 1/2" by 11"), plastic spiral bound
with a cartoon illustration of a woman with a headband and
blaster with stars and a spaceship in the background. The
interior is also copiously illustrated with cartoons by E. Hogan.
While one participant is the "Galaxy Master" (GM), the other
players are "Ship Masters" (SMs). Each player designs and plays
one starship, including the entire crew. There are three basic
scenarios: (1) basic exploration through a Star Gate; (2) race
to find a suitable colony world; (3) fighting galactic foes.
Ships are constructed by buying features within a monetary
budget. Characters are created by random-roll attributes,
and may be either human or robot. Humans have (3d6)x10 for
Mentality, 3d6 for Psi, 1d6 for Psi Use, 1d6 for Psi Recovery,
3d6 for Physique, and 3d6 for Health. Robots have (3d6)x50 for
Mentality, and playing card draw to determine Charge and
Efficiency (both rated 0.00 to 1.00). It includes rules for
ship combat and space hazards, but no rules for personal combat
or action.
Starfleet Voyages
Michael Scott
1982
Terra Games
80
A spacefaring sci-fi RPG, playing members of a space navy similar
to <u>Star Trek</u>. The rulebook includes "Landing
Party" rules for personal-level roleplaying and "Starflight"
rules for ship navigation and combat.
Star Frontiers
"TSR Staff"
1982
TSR
2nd
Lawrence Schick
David Cook
1983
A space-opera game, set in an original universe where four allied
races (humans, amorphous Dralasite, simian Yazirians, and
insectoid Vrusk) are threatened by the evil worm-like Sathar.
It uses a percentile skill-based system, where chance is listed
separately for each skill (i.e. setting charges is 30%+10*skill,
while removing security locks is 70%+10*skill). Character
creation is purely random-roll attributes, however: starting
characters have no skills. The second edition retitled the
original boxed set "Alpha Dawn" and added a "Knight Hawks"
boxed set with starship construction and combat rules.
Star Hero
Paula Woods
Sam Bowne
1989
Hero Games
A generic sci-fi game using the 3rd edition <a href="GAME#champions">
Champions</a> system. The game included the Powers meta-system,
which is used for alien biology, technological devices, and .
It also includes a hex-based starship combat system. There is
only a brief background (describing 10 interstellar societies in
18 pages).
Starleader: Assault
Howard Thompson
1982
Metagaming
A space-opera variant of the <a href="GAME#fantasytrip">
Fantasy Trip</a>, though only the first module (combat) was
published. It was set in the 30th century of the Space Era (SE),
depicting humanic expansion to the stars. The boxed set included
rules, map, and 42 counters.
Star Patrol
Space Patrol
Michael Scott Kurtick
Rockland Russo
1977
Gamescience
1st
1980
2nd
1982
A spacefaring sci-fi RPG, originally a 32-page mini-game called
"Space Patrol". The rules use attributes similar to
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a>,
with a hybrid system with class-like professions as well as
25 skills. Professions include soldier, engineer, scientist,
astronaut, trader, rogue, and spy/diplomat. It also includes
rules for 32 alien races, psionics, robots, and starships.
StaRPlay
Phillip McGregor
1999
Phalanx Games Designs
A brief universal RPG, released as a 103-page download in PDF
format. There are two sourcebooks for the "Armageddon" setting,
in which 20th-21st century military units are thrown 25000 years
into the future where there are various fantasy-like creatures
and ultra-tech. The system uses rolling 2d6 under skill/stat.
There are attributes (including Luck) and a semi-complex tree of
skills.
Star Riders
Hans Guevin
1993
Ianus Publications
A "wild space opera comedy" RPG, a sequel to R Talsorian's
<a href="GAME#teenagersfromouterspace">Teenagers from Outer Space</a>
game with compatible rules.
Star Rovers
Stocken
Hoffman
Hoffman
Hargrave
Huey
Lortz
1981
Archive Miniatures and Game Systems
3-hole punches 8.5x11 pages
A spacefaring sci-fi RPG, with a fairly detailed system covering
possibilities from zero-gee combat to diseases and their effects.
It was released with a set of sci-fi miniature figures. Action
resolution is based on rolling sets of d6's with sixes read as
zeroes (resulting in a range from 0 to 5).
Reviewed in Space Gamer #44.
Starships and Spacemen
Leonard H. Kanterman
1978
FGU
A serious-toned military space opera RPG, taglined "Carry Out
Missions in the Final Frontier". It focuses on the "Space Fleet
Service". The system covers aliens, space combat, and psionic
abilities.
Starship Troopers
August Hahn
2005
Mongoose Publishing
288
A military sci-fi RPG based on the nineties computer-animated TV series
("Roughnecks Chronicles"), the 1997 Paul Verhoeven film, and the
1959 Robert A. Heinlein novel. The PCs are troopers in powered armor
who are engaged in war with bug-like aliens. This is a standalone game
which uses a variant of the D20 System developed for 3rd edition
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">Dungeons & Dragons</a>.
Characters are almost all of the "Trooper" class, but may add
cross-training classes such as neo-dog handler, marauder driver,
and medic. There is also a Special Service Agent class with its own
psionics system. There are a number of combat system modifications,
including that characters begin with hit points equal to his
Constitution and gain exactly three hit points per level.
StarSIEGE: Event Horizon
Josh Chewning
2008
Troll Lord Games
A generic sci-fi RPG using a variant of the SIEGE Engine system
from the fantasy RPG
<a href="GAME#castlesandcrusades">Castles & Crusades</a>.
Resolution is still by rolling 1d20 with a target number of either 12
or 18 depending on whether the task is within the character's skill bundle.
In this variant, character creation does not use classes - only
attributes, species, skill bundles, and specialties. There are also
a generic set of build rules for "Trappings" - which can be anything
from guns to diseases to planets. Combat is expanded to allow fights
between general entities such as vehicles, starships, or even planets.
Stars Without Number
Kevin Crawford
2010
Sine Nomine Publishing
210
A science fiction RPG set in the year 3200, six centuries after a
metadimensional pulse killed all psychics and cut off interstellar
travel. Humanity is scattered and just beginning to recover from
centuries of isolation. It uses a variant of the early ("old school")
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">Dungeons & Dragons</a>.
system, inspired by the "Old School Renaissance" design movement.
Character creation is by rolling 3d6 for the six attributes and
choosing a class, along with a background package, training package,
and homeworld. The three classes are: Warriors, Experts, and Psychics.
Skill resolution is by rolling 2d6 + skill + attribute modifier vs.
difficulty number. Combat rolls are 1d20 + target's Armor Class +
attacker's Combat skill, attribute modifier, and attack bonus.
A result of 20 or more is a hit. The core rules include starships
and a starship combat system, using the same hit roll and rules for
shifting metadimensional phase.
Star Thugs
Mark Argyle
2004
GhazPORK Industrial
122
A tongue-in-cheek sci-fi RPG focused on starship combat, set in
"a dangerously jaded galaxy filled with bold adventure and relentless
cynicism." Each player creates a complete ship, captain, and crew.
Character creation involves selecting four attributes (Engineering,
Piloting, Mojo and Thuggery); plus simple skill selection. It has
an involved starship combat system, where any number of actions can
be taken in a turn, but most systems become "BENT" after one use and
cannot be used again that turn. Action resolution is generally
1d12 plus modifiers vs difficulty. For some rolls, if you roll
under your attribute you can roll again and add to the total.
Star Trek
Christian Moore
Ross Isaacs
Kenneth Hite
Steve Long
2002
Decipher
A science-fiction game based on the televisions series, closely
related to the previous
<a href="GAME#startrek_lastunicorn">Star Trek</a> effort
from Last Unicorn Games. It is published in a Player's Guide
and Narrator's Guide. It uses the "CODA" system, which is based
on attribute + skill + 2d6 vs difficulty. Character creation
uses templates and "overlays" for species and profession, along
with limited point-based features such as advantages and disadvantages.
Star Trek
Guy W. McLimore
Greg Poehlein
David Tepool
1982
FASA
2nd
Wm John Wheeler
1983
An early sci-fi game based on the original TV series. This uses
a basic percentile skill-based system. Character creation is
random-roll attributes with skill picks (of random adds) based on
career path. The combat system uses a complex action point
system. It includes world generation but no starship combat.
Star Trek: Adventure Gaming in the Final Frontier
Michael Scott
1978
Heritage Models
40
An early sci-fi game based on the original TV series. It was the
first official Star Trek RPG, and produced in conjunction with the
official figure line. The core rulbook is staple-bound with only
a large purple gas giant and space background on the cover, and
no interior illustrations. The rules are split into a "Basic Game"
using pre-generated characters from the series, and an "Advanced Game"
with full character creation and additional combat rules like random
initiative. Characters have six attributes (Strength, Dexterity,
Constitution, Charisma, Luck, and Mentality) generated by 3d6 rolls
modified by race. There is a "Hand-to-Hand Class" bonus, but no other
skills and no experience rules. Melee combat is resolved in
a single damage step. The attacker rolls 1d6-6d6 (depending on
weapon) plus Strength, Dexterity, and Hand-to-Hand Class modifiers.
The defender subtracts 1d6 plus Luck and Hand-to-Hand Class modifiers
from this total to determine damage. Ranged combat requires a
1d6 roll under a hit number which depends on range and the
attacker's Dexterity. The rules include sheets for bridge crew
including Kirk, Spock, McCoy, Uhura, Checkov, Sulu, Chapel, and
Scott as well as M'res and Arex from the Star Trek animated series.
The advanced rules include descriptions of several alien races
including Larry Niven's Kzin, an extensive equipment list, tables
for randomly-generated aliens, and two introductory scenarios.
There are no starship rules, however, and both scenarios are
essentially dungeon crawls complete with monsters, radioactive rocks,
and traps.
Star Trek Roleplaying Game
Christian Moore
Ross Isaacs
Kenneth Hite
Steve Long
1999
Last Unicorn
The companion game to
<a href="GAME#startrekthenextgeneration">Star Trek:TNG</a>
which covers the original TV series. It uses the same system,
with altered background and character templates.
Star Trek: The Next Generation Roleplaying Game
Christian Moore
Ross Isaacs
Kenneth Hite
Steve Long
1998
Last Unicorn
A sci-fi game based on the TV series (no relation to the FASA
game). It uses a "best roll" dice pool system (the "Icon"
system), rolling a number of d6's equal to attribute (1-6),
keeping the best and adding skill (1-6) vs difficulty.
Star Wars
Greg Costikyan
Greg Gorden
Bill Slavicsek
1987
West End Games
2nd
Bill Smith
1992
Revised and Expanded
Bill Smith
Peter Schweighofer
George R. Strayton
Paul Sudlow
Eric S. Trautman
Greg Farshtey
1996
A sci-fi game set in the universe of the movie series by George
Lucas. The later editions are nominally set after the film
trilogy, when the New Republic has emerged. However, play during
the original film period are also supported. This uses the
simple "D6" system: roll d6's equal to attribute + skill and
compare total vs difficulty. Character creation is by picking a
pre-gen template or limited point-buy.
Star Wars Roleplaying Game
Bill Slavisceck
Andy Collins
JD Wiker
2000
Wizards of the Coast
Saga
Owen K.C. Stephens
Rodney Thompson
2007
Wizards of the Coast
A sci-fi game set in the universe of the movie series by George
Lucas. It uses a variant of the D20 System developed for 3rd edition
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">Dungeons & Dragons</a>.
Character creation is based on random-roll attributes along with
races and classes as in the original system. However, characters have
a Defense Bonus (which adds to Armor Class) as well as a Reputation
score which depend on class and level. The damage system has a
separate pool of Wound Points (always equal to Constitution) and
Vitality Points (which are gained in dice per level). Critical
hits and other special damage subtract directly from WP, but
otherwise damage comes out of VP first. It also includes a Force
Point system, where all characters have Force Points which can be
spent for a bonus to die rolls. You gain a force point with each
level or from performing an act of dramatic heroism.
Star Wars
Edge of the Empire
Jay Little
Chris Gerber
Sam Stewart
2013
Fantasy Flight Games
Age of Rebellion
2014
Fantasy Flight Games
A sci-fi game set in the universe of the movie series by George Lucas.
It uses a dice pool system based on custom dice, positive and negative. Positive dice (D6, D8, or D12)
come from skill, proficiency, and bonuses - and have symbols for success, advantage, and triumph.
Negative dice (D6, D8, or D12) come from difficulty and have symbols for failure, threat, and despair.
A roll is a success if success results outnumber failure results - but there can be advantages gained
even on a failure, and threats with success. Character creation is based on race and career.
There are eight races (Human, Wookie, Droid, Trandoshian, Twi'lek, Bothan, Gand and Rodian)
and six careers (Bounty Hunter, Colonist, Explorer, Hired Gun, Smuggler, and Technician) -
each with three possible specializations.
Star Wreck Roleplaying Game
Mike Pohjola
2006
Energia Productions
48
A humorous science fiction game, adapted from the Finnish Star Trek
parody film of the same name. The PCs are members of the P-republic,
an advanced society of "radical godless commie feminist liberal pinkos".
It uses a simple system where you roll 2d6 and try to get higher than
your Inability score -- which is one of Stupidity, Obliviousness,
Clumsiness, Repulsiveness, and Weakness. There are four classes:
Incompetent Idiot, Annoying Nerd, Psychotic Loud-Mouth, and Frustrated
Grouch. Your class grants you from 0 to 2 special talents.
Steal Away Jordan
Julia B. Ellingboe
2007
Stone Baby Games
A historical tabletop RPG about characters who are slaves in the 19th
century U.S. -- inspired by slave narratives like Margaret Walker's
Jubilee, Toni Morrison's Beloved, and Octavia Butler's Kindred.
It uses a d6 dice pool system where a character's primary stat is
a general pool, called Worth, that is rated based on the character's
market value. There is also a Death die (d6) rolled during any violent
conflicts, where a result of 1 means that the character dies.
Stella Inquisitorus
Croc
1993
Siroz / Ideojeux
A French-language science fantasy RPG. It is set in a distant
future where after Armageddon has occured, technology has
regressed, and a ruthless Catholic Church rules everything (even
the angels!).
STOCS Lite
Eoin Connolly
Rob Brennan
Eric Nolan
1994
Wasteland
A universal RPG system. It uses random-roll attributes (advising
GM latitude in allowing rerolls) and point-bought skills (number
of skill points based on attributes: INT+EDU+10). Action
resolution is basic roll d20 under skill: difficulty is a +-
modifier, but time spent is a multiplier to skill (x1/2 or x2).
Success is normal or critical. The combat system is simple and
geared towards realism, and features "panic" rules.
La Storia Ancestrale
Giuliano Bezzi
Andrea Trapani
1995
Hobby & Work
An Italian-language fantasy RPG inspired by a story published by the
same editor as a collection of issues sold in Italian newspaperkiosks.
The title translates as "The Ancestral Story".
Stormbringer
Ken St. Andre
Steve Perrin
1981
Chaosium
2nd
1985
Chaosium
3rd
1987
4th
Ken St. Andre
Steve Perrin
John B. Monroe
1990
5th
2001
A dark fantasy role-playing game set in the world of Michael
Moorcock's Young Kingdoms series. It uses a variant of
the <a href="GAME#basic">Basic Roleplaying</a> system.
The <a href="GAME#elric">Elric!</a> game is really another
edition of this game between 4th and 5th editions.
Storyboard
Matthew Gaston
1996
Magus Creative Games
A simple universal mini-system. Characters have 15 to 20 freeform
word traits such as "Sorceror" and "Quick". For action resolution,
each trait that applies to the action adds one die to the dice pool.
You roll that number of d10, and each die that is greater than the
task difficulty is one success.
Story Cards
Carl Klutzke
2008
Dogtown Games
A universal RPG that uses specialized deck of cards inspired by
astronomical constellations. There are 60 cards, numbered 1 through
12 in five suits (Strength, Intellect, Dexterity, Will, and Essence).
The rules use a tarot-like reading to prompt ideas for characters and
adventures. Besides the random reading, character stats are open
point-based, dividing 8, 10, 12, or 20 points (based on the chosen
power level) among the 4 attributes as well as skills and powers.
Resolution is by drawing a number of cards from the deck equal to
appropriate attribute, where each card drawn that is of the Essence
suit or the suit of the attribute used is a success. Skill adds a
number of automatic successes equal to skill level.
Story Engine
Christian Aldridge
1999
Hubris
A universal RPG system, which is a dice pool system which has no
numerical stats. Instead, the size of the pool depends on the
number of textual "descriptors" (like "strong") the character has
that apply. Success is determined by the number of odd numbers
rolls ("Odds") vs the difficulty.
Storytelling20
Andrea "Anderson" Gualano
Giuseppe "Mitsuhashi" Lanzi
1999
self-published
An Italian-language universal RPG. It uses a flexible and fast
rule system, using d20 for all rolls. It was started as an online
project, and much later was collected in one volume. The basic
manual has several "classic", "serious" and "humorous" settings.
Strands of Fate
Mike McConnell
2010
Void Stars Games
A universal RPG using a variant of the FATE system
(Fantastic Adventures in Tabletop Entertainment) from
<a href="GAME#spiritofthecentury">Spirit of the Century</a>.
Strange Frontiers
Mark Hanson
1999
New World Games
A futuristic "Wild West" RPG. It is set in the year 2119 on a
mystically-charged planet called Tarrath on the other side of the
black hole Cygnus X1. The Earth government has tried to isolate the
planet from technology, but their efforts are only partially successful.
The system includes 11 races, 13 professions, 83 skills, and 144 spells.
Street Fighter: The Storytelling Game
Bill Bridges
Phil Brucato
Brian Campbell
Sean Lang
Mike Tinney
Stephan Wieck
1994
White Wolf
192
A martial-arts RPG based on the video game, using a variant of
the Storyteller system.
Střepy snů
Matouš Ježek
2010
Midnight Theatre
160
A universal system, whose title translates as "shards of dreams".
It focuses on cinematic storytelling aspects of gaming, with mechanics
inspired by film techniques.
StrikeForce: 2136
Lee Kamberos
2007
RolePlayersInk
163
A dark future science fiction RPG, set in the year 2136 where the U.N.
and corporations have fostered a society aimed at creating ultimate
opponents and warriors through an adversarial system. It uses a
percentile skill system where every skill and attribute roll is an
opposed roll, where you subtract a percentile roll from modified skill
level to determine the effectiveness (EF) of the attempt. The EF is
compared to an opposed roll to see if they succeed. This may be
modified by a related skill roll ("tweaking") or spending a limited
number of luck points. Characters are created by a random-roll
class-based system. The player rolls for the race of the character,
where the races are different genetically engineered versions of
humanity. Primary attributes are then generated with dice rolls based
on the race. The player then rolls education level based on a chart,
and chooses a profession from 5 options: Special Tactics Officer
(STO), Corporate Spy (C-Spy), Nano-Tech, Med-Tech and Psi-Tech.
Skills are then bought with points based on education level and
profession. There are two types of skills: main skills (worth 5
points per level) and sub-skills, which are multipliers of the main
skill total. It also has a personality system where characters have
defined "passions" that trigger possible disillusionment with the
social order (i.e. "A civilian is about to be killed - do I save them
and lose the plans?"). Triggered attitude checks may make the
character more disillusioned with the system, making it harder go up
ranks and get new technology but granting an experience bonus.
Besides the game system book, the core game also has a Tech Manual
(covering various equipment) and The Defense Zone Manual (GM's guide).
Stuperpowers
Ryan Dunlavey
Steve Ellis
Jamal Igle
Carson Jones
Stew Noack
Lauren Rabinowitz
Fred Van Lente
1997
Unstoppable Productions
2nd
1999
Evil Twin Comics
A parody superhero RPG, published as a 32-page comic book (with
an abridged rulebook available on the web). Characters are
"third-rate heroes" with less than spectacular powers like
"Induce Vietnam Flashbacks" (randomly rolled from a list of 48
powers). The basic game mechanic is either toss a coin (you call
it, you succeed) or rock-paper-scissors. Damage has 5 levels,
but you can gain them back by playing "Truth or Dare". cf. the
<a href="http://www.stuperpowers.com/">official website</a>.
Sufficiently Advanced
Colin Fredericks
2008
Valent Games
180
A science fiction RPG where the player characters are agents of the extra-governmental Patent Office, travelling to civilizations throughout the universe to enforces intellectual property rights. It is an open secret that the office run by transcendental artificial intelligences spread throughout time, who are trying to save humanity to ease their loneliness. Character creation is by rating four player-chosen core values (rated 0-10) representing what they believe in, and also Capabilities (rated 1-10) representing the five kinds of technology built into their bodies (rated 1-10): Biotech, Cognitech, Metatech, Nanotech, and Stringtech. Higher ratings in Capabilities result in greater complications and fewer levels in the story-level abilities -- the six Themes: Plot Immunity, Intrigue, Empathy, Magnetism, Comprehension, and Romance. The player spends from 5 to 9 levels among the Themes. The player also spends points up to two times (Biotech plus Cognitech) among professions (i.e. broad skills). Resolution is by multiplying Capability and a 1d10 roll, and also Profession and a 1d10 roll, taking the higher result. A relevant Core Value adds +1 or +2 to the roll. Players may spend one Twist per session to activate a Theme, with an effect depending on the Theme type and level. More Twists can be gained by taking Complications.
Sulle sponde del Nilo
Andrea Angiolino
Pier Giorgio Paglia
Stefano Pischedda
1995
City Council of Rome
2nd
1998
Kaos magazine #53
An Italian-language historical RPG set in ancient Egypt. The title
translates as "On the Nile river banks". It uses a simple set of
rules, similar to
<a href="GAME#mediterraneo">Mediterraneo</a> and
<a href="GAME#orlandofurioso">Orlando Furioso</a>.
Most of the space is devoted to the adventure, "Il papiro trafugato"
("The stolen papyrus"). The first edition was part of the booklet
"L'Egitto in biblioteca", freely distributed to teachers and
librarians. The second edition was published in Kaos magazine #53,
March 1998.
Summerland: A role-playing game of desolation and redemption within the Sea of Leaves
Greg Saunders
2009
Fire Ruby Designs
109
Revised and Expanded
2010
Fire Ruby Designs
180
A post-apocalyptic sci-fi RPG in a future where a vast forest has
suddenly imposed itself over human civilization (known as "The Event"),
and eighty percent of humanity has gone into the forest never to return
(known as "The Call"). The player characters are rare "drifters" who
can resist the Call and function deep in the forest due to traumatic
events that have happened to them. It uses an original system.
Character creation is limited point-bought, spending 20 points among
the four attributes (Body, Finesse, Mind, Empathy) along with specifying
five freeform descriptive "tags". Resolution is by rolling under
attribute plus two tags on a number of dice depending on difficulty,
from 2d6 (easy) to 5d6 (near impossible). It has additional mechanics
for Trauma and Stress, which are stats the both start at 5 but reduce
over time when invoked. Trauma lets the character resist the Call but
keeps them from being part of normal society. When reduced to zero, the
character can reintegrate into society. Stress meaures how close the
character is to breaking.
Sun and Storm
D. Pilurs
1992
Storm Press
A dark fantasy RPG (with some sci-fi elements), where characters
are struggling to survive in a world plagued with monsters.
The world was once a techno-magical paradise until a StormWyrm
devastated it. The cosmology has that evil Storm dragons fight
with good Sun dragons. The PC races are warlike Kehessek,
magical Requessek, Hadiborean, and mixed-race individuals.
The system is skill-based with profession packages.
Super! - Il Gioco di ruolo dei supereroi
Chris Rutkowsky
2008
Inspired Device
An Italian-language adaptation of the superhero RPG
<a href="GAME#bash">BASH! Basic Action Super Heroes</a>,
written by Chris Rutkowsky in 2004.
Superbabes: The Fem Force RPG
Marc Schezzini
Cameron Verkaik
1992
Tri-City Games
A light-hearted superhero RPG in the world of Americomics'
<a href="http://www.iit.edu/~mcfejoe/femforce.html">
Femforce</a> comic, playing well-endowed spandex-clad
superheroines. It has a "Bimbo Point" mechanic which lets PC's
do anything once (or maybe twice) a game -- even violate the rules,
but they accrue debt points when they do. Each game session the
GM rolls vs accumulated debt. If the roll is made, a bad subplot
(i.e. tabloid story, IRS investigation) happens to the PC and the
debt is wiped clean.
The Supercrew
Tobias Radesäter
2007
self-published
A English-language RPG (produced in Sweden) in the form of a
28-page comic book. The players play a version of themselves with
super powers. Character creation is by rolling three times on a
table to determine three abilities. One ability is Rank 3, powerful
but only useable once or twice per session. One ability is Rank 2,
your primary power. One ability is Rank 1, weak that causes you
trouble but earns you hero points if you use it. Resolution is by
rolling d6s equal to your ability rank, where each 4, 5 or 6 counts
as a success. This is modified by tricks and the Anecdote Bonus.
The book is self-published through
<a href="http://www.lulu.com/content/1114579">Lulu.com</a>.
Supergame
Jay Hartlove
Aimee Karklyn
1980
DAG Productions
2nd
Jay Hartlove
Aimee Hartlove
1982
A generic superhero RPG, supposedly based on a variant of
<a href="GAME#superhero2044">Superhero 2044</a>.
Character creation is point-bought. It had two supplements: a
collection of adventures titled "Reactor" and a sourcebook
titled "Heroes of Poseidon".
Superhero 2044
Donald Saxman
1977
Gamescience
The first superhero RPG. It had rules inspired by D&D,
with vague rules for character construction and resolution of
superpower useage. Players allocated time management (i.e. hours
spent patrolling, etc.) which determined a superhero's overall
effectiveness in stopping crime.
Supernatural Role Playing Game
Jamie Chambers
2009
Margaret Weis Productions
A modern-day horror RPG adapted from the American television series
"Supernatural." It uses a step-die system adapted from the
<a href="GAME#sovereignstone">Sovereign Stone</a> and the
<a href="GAME#serenity">Serenity</a> RPG.
Super-Sentinels
unknown
1983
Judges Guild
A superhero RPG system.
Super Squadron
Joseph Italiano
1984
Adventure Simulations
An Australian generic superhero RPG, similar to
<a href="GAME#villiansandvigilantes">Villians and Vigilantes</a>.
The game was a boxed set with two books: the main rulebook (56 pages),
and the adventure book with ten introductory scenarios (24 pages).
Two supplements were released for it: "The Tome" (with assorted new
powers, spells, NPCs, and scenarios) and "Super Science" (with
detailed science and technology).
Supervillians
Rick Register
R. Vance Buck
Allen D. Eldridge
1982
Task Force Games
A boxed, chit/counter-based tactical combat game set in New York City
involving randomized super villains against DAGGER agents, police, and the
national guard. The set includes advanced rules for role-playing.
Superworld
2nd
Steve Perrin
1983
Chaosium
A superhero RPG. The "first edition" was one of three
parts of the <a href="GAME#worldsofwonder">World of Wonder</a>
universal RPG. It was later expanded and released on its own.
It uses a variant of the "Basic Role-playing" percentile system.
Svavelvinter
Tomas Härenstam
2012
Fria Ligan
352
A Swedish-language fantasy game based on the fantasy novel series
by Erik Granström, in a merchant empire ("Tracoria") among
four main islands in a fictional renaissance world. The title
translates as "Winter of Brimstone". The world is animistic with
living clouds, mountains and winds along with dragons and other
mythical beasts.
Svenil Rollspelet
Daniel Lenneér
2000
Svenil Games
A humorous Swedish-language RPG where you play anti-heroes and
ordinary people in a cartoony version of the modern world.
Swansong
J.J. Prince
2006
Prince of Darkness Games
A broad generic fantasy game that uses Tarot cards for task resolution.
Character creation is open point-based, with players spending 100
character points on stats (Physique, Agility, Psyche); Traits (such as
Might, Markmanship or Magick); player-defined Skills; Perks (such as
guild membership, contacts, etc.); and Talents (including magical
one). Action resolution is by drawing a number of cards equal to the
appropriate trait, and taking the highest. The GM draws cards either
based on task difficulty (1 to 10) or based on NPC stat. Each failure
on a player's part adds a grievance, and if grievances are greater
than the Essence stat, the character is effectively out of the scene.
Flair can be gained by good descriptions, and creates a pool of points
which can be spent to hold onto a high card for later use, or move the
game to a chosen scene. Also, some Major Arcana have special
effects -- such as the Death card allowing the player to kill a
faltering NPC, which is otherwise tricky to do.
Swashbuckler
Jim Dietz
1998
Jolly Roger
A swashbuckling action RPG. It's system is mixed step-die
(d6 to d20 for attribute) plus dice pool (1d6 per skill) vs
difficulty. Combat is a special case of 1d20 vs 1d20 based on
cross-referencing each opponent's fencing manuever. Character
creation is a simple limited-point-buy system.
Swashbucklers of the 7 Skies
Chad Underkoffler
2009
Evil Hat Productions
A game of pulp adventure set on an original world, a giant dome of
floating cloud-islands divided into seven skies which define the
seasons. There are also six major cloud-island kingdoms, whose
people travel by skyships (built of floating bluewood), cloudships,
and gliders. There are pirates and musket-wielding swashbucklers,
of course - as well as magical and religious powers.
It uses a variant of the Prose Descriptive Qualities (PDQ) system,
called PDQ# ("PDQ Sharp"). It includes the usual 2d6 + stat versus
difficulty, as well as a duelling system where opponents divide 3d6
among attack, defense, or other action. This is modified by techniques
and spending of Style Dice - which may give an addition die that is not
kept (i.e. take thee best 2 out of N dice) or give a flat bonus.
Character creation is limited point-based, choosing a number of stats
("Fortes").
Sweet Agatha
Kevin Allen Jr.
2008
Kevin Allen Jr Design
A cooperative storytelling game for two players, that incorporates
elements of traditional fiction in the form of thirty pages of notes,
pictures, and codes regarding the disappearance of the character of
Agatha. There are 67 clues included, but the solution to the mystery
is decided by the players over the course of ten scenes.
Sweet Dreams: The Storytelling Game of Romance, Espionage and Horror in High School
Allan Dotson
David Richards
2005
May Contain Monkeys
A game set in a version of the modern world where due to the Dreaming,
everything imaginable is real -- including unicorns, dragons, fairies,
ghosts, vampires, werewolves, angels, demons, magic spells and potions,
and super-powers. However, most people block it out with adolescence.
The PCs are the Chosen -- supernatural students who have re-learned
the truth they knew in pre-adolescence.
The Swing
Keith Taylor
2003
93 Games Studio
A modern-day shifting-reality RPG, set in the modern world which
is in the process of being transformed by mystical processes keyed
to the will of a number of enlightened beings -- including the PCs.
The beings are divided into three camps: Naturists, Mechanists, and
Neutrals. It uses a dice pool system where you total a number of
dice for attribute, add skill, and compare that to the Difficulty
of the task. There is an extensive combat system that focuses on
realism. Character creation is random-roll attributes and
a random-roll lifepath determining occupation and skills.
Swordbearer
Arnold Hendrick
Dennis Sustare
1982
Heritage Models
2nd
1985
FGU
A fantasy-genre RPG without a specific setting, but emphasizing
an authentic medieval feel. Characters did not track money, but rather
were allowed any equipment which was allowed to their social status:
which ranged from slave at 1 to royalty with 20 or more. The
rules are skill-based, with characters choosing broad "spheres" to
concentrate in (such as combat, magic, etc.). The magic system is
noteworthy in its use of "nodes" which are collected to power
spells: either of the 7 elements (fire, metal, crystal, water,
wood, wind, light/darkness), or the 4 spiritual humors
(vitriolic, phlegmatic, choleric, melancholy).
Swords & Glory
Volume 1, 1st ed
M.A.R. Barker
1983
Gamescience
Volume 2, 1st ed
M.A.R. Barker
1983
Gamescience
Volume 1, 2nd ed
M.A.R. Barker
1987
Different Worlds Publications
This was an incomplete RPG set on the unique alien world called "Tekumel" --
previously the setting of the <a href="GAME#empireofthepetalthrone">
Empire of the Petal Throne</a> (1975) game. Originally published
by Gamescience, Volume 1 was a boxed set with one 136 page book of
background information and one full-colour mapsheet with four maps.
Volume 2 was a boxed set with 240 page book, two pamphlets (12 and 16 pages),
an 8 page character sheet, and two 20-sided dice. It was an incomplete
rules system which covered character generation, spells, and basic game
mechanics. Volume 3 was never published, though Volume 1 was republished
as two smaller books by Different Worlds Publications. There are two
other games set in this world that were published later:
<a href="GAME#gardasiyal">Gardisayal</a> (1995)
and
<a href="GAME#tekumel">Tekumel</a> (2005).
Swords & Wizardry
Matthew J. Finch
2009
Mythmere Games
116
A close imitation of the original 1974
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a> game
by Gary Gygax and Dave Arneson, created using the Wizards of the
Coast Open Gaming License.
Swords of the Middle Kingdoms
John R. Phythyon
Matt Harrop
Allan T. Grohe, Jr.
1999
Event Horizon Productions
A fantasy martial-arts RPG, based on period-piece Chinese
martial-art films, set in a fictitious China during the Manchu
occupation. It uses the "Cinemaction" system from
<a href="GAME#hongkongactiontheatre">Hong Kong Action Theatre!</a>:
stat+specialty+d20 vs difficulty. There is also magic based on
the I Ching.
Sword's Path: Glory
Barry Nakazano
David McKenzie
1983
Leading Edge
A medieval RPG with an extremely detailed and realistic combat
system. It uses a time scale of 1/12th of a second, with about
130 hit location charts split into cutting, slashing, and
crushing blows.
Sword World RPG (ソード・ワールドRPG)
Yasuda Hitoshi
1989
Group SNE
A popular Japanese-language traditional fantasy RPG. A supplement
series by Ryo Mizuno was published for adapting the anime series
"Record of Lodoss War" to the system.
Systems Failure
Bill Coffin
1999
Palladium Books
A satirical post-apocalyptic game set 10 years after the Y2K
problem released alien "Bugs" from another dimension. The Bugs
can travel at the speed of light through electrical and phone lines,
and have all but taken over the world with humans as their slaves.
The Bug larvae can live in the human brain and control the body,
allowing Bugs to move into the wilderness where no power lines lie.
The PCs are survivalist freedom fighters in the wilderness who are
fighting back using older technology. It uses a variant of the
<a href="GAME#palladiumfantasy">Palladium FRPG</a> system,
which is level and class based, with percentile attributes and skills.
Tagmar
Ygor Morais Esteves da Silva
Marcelo Rodrigues
August Julio Cesar Junior
Leonardo Nahoum Pache de Faria
Sergio Fonseca de Castro
1991
GSA Editora
A Portuguese-language traditional fantasy RPG published in Brazil
by "Editora Art Bureau editora de arte LTDA" / GSA Editora. It
is set in a world with humans, orcs, elves, dwarves, and other
classic fantasy elements. It's system is similar to
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a>.
However, it has a split damage system: Heroic Energy is damaged
by most attacks, while Physical Energy is damaged by critical
hits and falls. (This is similar to the Wound Point / Vitality
Point distinction used in some D20 games). It uses two d10s and
a d20. This was one of the earliest Brazilian RPGs, and influential
on many Brazilian gamers. Two sourcebooks were published for it: one
with adventures and other expanding the setting.
Tähti
Mike Pohjola
2007
Riimuahjo Publishing
A Finnish-language near future roleplaying game where the player characters
are members of a Maoist mutant girl band in the Finland of 2017. The
action of the game revolves around dating, school, parents, rehearsals,
fans, gigs, managers, celebrity and so forth. It uses a resolution
mechanic based on interpreting fortune cookie fortunes.
Taiga
Ville Vuorela
1998
Burger Games
A English-language post-ecological-apocalypse RPG published in Finland,
set in 2039 as civilization is breaking down into anarchy and barbarism
due to world-wide famine.
Tales from the Crypt
Greg Farshtey
Teenwynn Woodruff
1996
West End Games
A horror RPG set in the world of the TV series. It uses the
<a href="GAME#masterbook">MasterBook</a> system.
Tales from the Floating Vagabond
Lee Garvin
Nick Atlas
John Huff
1992
Avalon Hill
96
A humorous sci-fi RPG, set in a universe with lots of aliens and
hi-tech stuff in the year 4012. "The Floating Vagabond" is the
name of a bar in the center of the multiverse, which acts as the
home base for intergalactic mercenaries. The system is roll
under stat on a step-die based on difficulty (d4 to d100).
Tales of Blades and Heroes
Andrea Sfiligoi
2012
Ganesha Games
56
A simple fantasy RPG rules system based on the miniature rules,
"Song of Blades and Heroes". It uses a simple dice pool system,
with three attributes (Quality) for Physical, Mental, and Social;
and also a general Combat rating. Character creation is open
point-based, with 50 points at base. Points can be spent on
attributes, but most are spent on Special Rules that function as
skills, advantages, and disadvantages. Skill resolution is rolling
a number of d6s, with successes based on the appropriate attribute.
Combat is 1d6 + bonuses compared to opponent's roll. There is a
freeform magic system where each magic-using character has a set
of nouns and verbs to form spells from.
Tales of Gaea: Fantasy Role-Playing Game
William Corrie III
2003
HinterWelt Enterprises
234
A fantasy RPG with a percentile skill-based system (the "Iridium System")
and an original setting. It is set on the continent of Narheim in the
world of Gaea, which is inhabited by humans as well as dwarves, elves,
halfings, and gnomes. Society is relatively advanced and enlightened
with the use of magic. Character creation is choosing race, random-roll
attributes (best of 3d20 for each of eleven attributes), followed by
choosing one of seventeen classes which influence skills. It includes
a magic system, where all characters may have some magic but specialists
have true power.
Tales of Gargentihr
Richard Cooper
Alastair Cowan
1995
Sanctuary Games Ltd
2nd
1998
Digital Animations
Mind Ventures
A swashbuckling fantasy RPG set in a semi-historical alternate
world in the year 1585. On Gargentihr, continents drift and
magical energy fills the sky. However, it is in an age of
exploration (of the New World) and early science similar to our
1700's. PC's are part of a secret society of adventurers
("Clondis") who organize into teams. The system is skill-based,
with random-roll attributes, point-bought skills, and a life-path
development system. Combat is fairly detailed. cf. the
<a href="http://www.digital-animations.com/tog/">
official website</a>.
Talespinner
Vincent Diakuw
2004
Thousandpress
14
An electronically-published role-playing game focusing on storytelling
and descriptive skills. Players take turns narrating the outcome of
scenes. The flow of action is moderated by a fluctuating pool of dice
which the players share.
Talislanta
Stephan Michael Sechi
1987
Bard Games
2nd
1989
3rd
Stephan Michael Sechi
Jonathan Tweet
1992
Wizards of the Coast
4th
John Harper
Stephan Michael Sechi
Adam Sonfield
2000
Shootingiron
4th Reprint
John Harper
Stephan Michael Sechi
Adam Sonfield
2000
Morrigan Press
A post-magical-apocalypse fantasy game set on an original fantasy
world. Powerful pre-disaster magic can be found, while there is
also the menace of barbaric sub-men. There are no elves or
dwarves (a tag line for the game). Character creation is by
picking from a large set of templates. Action resolution is
similar to D&D. cf. the
<a href="http://www.talislanta.com/">official website</a>.
TAQ
Theron
Arvola
1991
Peter's Press
A traditional fantasy RPG, reviewed in White Wolf #28.
Tasnar
Aleksi Stenberg
1997
Saruwine
A Finnish-language fantasy RPG, set on the world of Tasnar
focusing on the land of Medharmark which is modelled after
medieval Scandinavia.
A Taste For Murder
Graham Walmsley
2010
self-published
A GMless murder-mystery RPG for 4-6 players set in a 1930s country house.
It begins with a series of characters playing out events before the
murder, establishing motives by keeping track of relationships that
become more complex. Halfway through the game, the murder occurs, and
the player of the murdered character switches to playing the detective.
The true murderer is not determined until the end of the game, when
two characters have their motive charts filled and the detective
determines which of the two is the real murderer. It uses d6 mechanics
called "die circles" that give bonuses when characters act particularly
evil, or like victims.
Taste My Steel
Don Johnson
1982
Phantasy Network
A historical swashbuckling RPG. The rules are focused on combat
(swordplay, firearms, and brawling) but also cover creating scenarios
and campaigns.
Teatro Demente
A. Diego
D. Fernandez
J. Garcia
P.J. Ramos
2002
self-published
A Spanish-language live-action parody RPG set in the "Mundo de Demencia".
This is a parody of White Wolf's "World of Darkness" where the PCs
are disturbing night-beings -- like smokers, drunkens, women,
and role-players -- who have astonishing powers.
Technoir
Jeremy Keller
2011
Cellar Games
A cyberpunk sci-fi RPG set 20 to 30 years in the future, with general
advances in technology but not much detail on the world. It uses a
d6 dice pool system where characters have ratings from 1 to 3 in nine
Verbs and a number of binary Adjectives used as modifiers. Resolution
is by the player rolling "Action Dice" equal to the Verb stat used, with
additional "Push Dice" for each applicable positive Adjective or
object Tag - comparing the highest die to the target's reaction rating.
Rolled Push Dice can be spent for extra success results. Character
creation involves picking three Training Programs, where each gives
you +1 in three Verbs and 1 choice of Adjective.
Te Deum Pour Un Massacre
Jean-Philippe Jaworski
2005
Editions du Matagot
A French-language historical RPG set in 16th century Europe amidst the
Wars of Religion. The core set is published as a series of four small
paperback books in a cardboard sleeve: a setting book on everyday life
(70 pages), a historical background book (194 pages), the main rulebook
(146 pages), and a book of scenarios (44 pages). It uses a step-die
system where each of six attribute has six levels, with named levels
corresponding to D4, D6, D8, D10, D12 and D20. Character creation
uses a life path system, starting with picking a birth rank and then
templates for your life as a baby, as a child, as a youth and as a
teenager. Each stage includes background questions ranging from what
your favourite hiding place was as a child to who your first lover was.
After adolescence, you pick one of 46 professions. The rules also
include detailed combat rules with hit location and precise weapon
stats.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and Other Strangeness
Erick Wujcik
1985
Palladium Books
A superhero RPG based on the parody/action comic, with characters
as any of a variety of anthropomorphic mutated animals of various
abilities. It uses a variant of the
<a href="GAME#palladiumfantasy">Palladium FRPG</a> system,
with limited point-bought character creation (via "bio-energy").
Teenagers From Outer Space
1st
Mike Pondsmith
1987
R Talsorian
80
2nd
1989
96
3rd
Mike Pondsmith
Greg Costikyan
1997
A Japanese anime comedy RPG, set on Earth as aliens are increasingly
drawn in by the wonders of designer jeans, hi-fi stereos, cool cars,
and fast food. Characters are high school students competing for
popularity and dates while occaisionally saving the world or such.
It uses a very simple system based on attribute + skill + 1d6 vs
difficulty. Notably, rolling over a certain amount results in a
"horrible success" which has unintended consequences. Character
creation is rolling 1d6 for each attribute, plus point-bought
traits / skills. The combat system has no lethal damage. Instead
characters lose "Bonk" from being hit, and they go into a stupor
for a while if reduced to zero.
Tekumel: The Empire of the Petal Throne
M.A.R. Barker
Joe Saul
Patrick Brady
Edwin Voskamp
2005
Guardians of Order
238
A non-traditional fantasy game set on a unique alien world called
"Tekumel". Set 60,000 years in the future, Tekumel was settled
by Earth, but a great disaster threw Tekumel into a pocket
dimension where gods and magic existed. The setting has a strong
Hindu and Aztec flavor rather than European, and is lavishly
detailed. It uses a variant of the Tri-Stat system originally from the
<a href="GAME#bigeyessmallmouth">Big Eyes, Small Mouth</a>
RPG. There are two previously-published games set in this world,
though with unrelated rules systems:
<a href="GAME#empireofthepetalthrone">
Empire of the Petal Throne</a> (1975) and
<a href="GAME#gardasiyal">Gardisayal</a> (1995).
Tellus
David Bergqvist
Terje Nordin
2001
Terra Incognita
Västerås Stift
A Swedish-language RPG set in a post-apocalyptic future where the
remnants of mankind have built a new society, free from violence and
injustice, but not without its problems, on the ruins of the old world.
Tenchi Muyo RPG
David L. Pulver
Karen A. McLarney
2000
Guardians of Order
A science fantasy RPG based on the anime series, where a
Japanese teenage boy discovers a magic sword and gets mixed
up in adventures dealing with various aliens. It uses the
Tri-Stat system from <a href="GAME#bigeyessmallmouth">Big Eyes,
Small Mouth</a>.
Tenra Bansho
Junichi Inoue
1997
F.E.A.R.
Zero
2000
A Japanese-language science fantasy RPG, set on a distant planet in
the far future called "Tenra". The title is a play on the phrase
"Shinrabansho", which means "Everything in Earth and Heaven", or
"All of Nature". Humans were exiled there centuries ago, and
developed a feudal culture similar to Sengoku era Japan -- though
with advanced technology and magic. It includes samurai, cyborg
footsoldiers, taoist demon-summoning wizards, medicine men with colonies
of useful insects inside their bodies, and magically-enhanced mecha
powered by innocent children. It uses a d6-based system, and includes
hero points ("Aiki Chits") which are earned by good role-playing and
spent on improving abilities, strengthening Fates, or increasing
die rolls.
Terminus 5
Wolf
2000
Scorpion's Nest Tactical Gaming
A post-apocalyptic tabletop RPG and/or wargame, set in a
militaristic future where scavenged present-day technology
is used. It uses a complex tactical system given in the
422 page Master Rulebook.
Terra Incognita: The NAGS Society Handbook
Scott Larson
2001
Circa Games
Grey Ghost Games
A Victorian adventure game, using a variant of the
<a href="GAME#fudge">FUDGE</a> system. The PC's are
members of the National Archeological and Geographic Society, which
is a worldwide organization devoted to discovering the supernatural
and for the most part keeping it hidden.
The Terran Story
Richard Parkinson
2004
Timeless Games
A sci-fi RPG set in the 25th century. Character creation is
either random-roll or limited-point-bought attributes; and an
occupation package. Action resolution is generally percentile
roll under stat, though d6s are also used.
The Terran Trade Authority Roleplaying Game
Scott Agnew
Jeff Lilly
2007
Morrigan Press
A sci-fi RPG based on the comic series by Stewart Cowley, started in
1978 with Spacecraft 2000 to 2100 AD, created in cooperation with the
author. It uses a variant of the "Omni RPG System" used by other RPGs
from Morrigan Press. Action resolution uses skill or attribute minus
difficulty + 1d20, interpreting the results on a universal degree of
success table.
Terra Primate
Patrick Sweeney
David F. Chapman
M. Alexander Jurkat
2002
Eden Studios
A sci-fi RPG in the genre of humans transplanted into a world of
intelligent apes, such as the Planet of the Apes movies. There
is no specific setting, though there are details on the intelligent
apes to fit the genre. It uses a variant of the Unisystem rules,
originally from <a href="GAME#witchcraft">Witchcraft</a>.
Action resolution is attribute + skill + 1d10 - difficulty modifiers,
rated on a small universal table for degree of success. Character
creation is limited point-based.
Terra the Gunslinger
Junichi Inoue
2001
F.E.A.R.
A Japanese-language modern fantasy RPG set in the Wild West.
La Terre Creuse
Laurent Alonzo
Alain Paris
1989
Silmarils
A French-language sci-fi RPG, based on a series of novels of the
same name by Alain Paris. It is set in the far future of an
alternate history where WWII ended in thermonuclear war and
people live in the shadow of a Nazi Germany turned into a
low-tech Imperium.
Terror Network: Counter Terrorism Role Playing Game
Brendan Davis
William Butler
Steve Bowden
2010
Bedrock Games
105
A modern-day counter-terrorism RPG, where the player characters are
covert counter-terrorism agents. The game recommends having one full
set of characters working on the home front (i.e. FBI or DHS) and one
full set of characters involved in foreign operations. It uses a d10
dice pool system (the "Network System"), rolling dice equal to skill
and comparing the highest roll to difficulty or opposing skill.
Rolls of 10 are open-ended. Character creation is purely skill-based,
there are no attributes.
Terror Thirteen
Eric A. Kugler
2009
Anansi Games LLC
A horror RPG focused on emulating classic horror stories including
those by authors Shelley, Stoker, Hawthorne, Poe, and Stevenson.
Resolution is by comparing 3d6 + attribute + skill + backgrounds + bonds
versus an opposed roll, where the winner is allowed to narrate the outcome.
Backgrounds are traits beyond attribute and skill that are still rated 1-10,
and the rating can change as part of an appropriate scene. Bonds are
attachments or relationships a character has, also rated numerically.
Character creation is either by an open point-buy method or by
non-mechanic-based consensus.
Theatrix
David Berkman
Travis Eneix
Andrew Finch
Anthony Gallela
1993
Backstage Press
A universal diceless RPG emphasizing drama. Action resolution is
largely in the hands of the GM, with flow-charts provided to guide
thinking. However, player input is emphasized via "plot points"
and "statements" -- using which players can force certain results.
Thieves Guild
Richard Meyer
Kerry Lloyd
Michael Watkins
1984
The Game Lords, Ltd.
128 loose-leaf hole-punched
2nd
1984
Boxed set of three books (40,32,32)
A traditional fantasy game which richly detailed thieves as its
focus. The system is skill-based, although different skills had
different mechanics (combat, thief, and other). Character
creation is mixed random-roll attributes and point-bought skills
(with a random number of points). It is notable for its detailed
subsystems devoted to thief skills (picking locks, etc.)
Thieves' World
Lynn Abbey
Gary Astleford
Patrick O'Duffy
Robert J. Schwalb
2005
Green Ronin Publishing
192
A fantasy RPG based on a multi-author, shared-world series of stories
started in 1979 by Robert Lynn Asprin, Gordon Dickson, and Lynn Abbey --
and on the new stories starting with Lynn Abbey's 1999 novel "Sanctuary".
It is set in a seedy city called "Sanctuary" filled with murderers,
cutthroats, wizards, cultists, and more. The game uses a variant of
3rd edition <a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a>,
aka the D20 System. There was an earlier setting book on Thieves' World
in the 1980s published by Chaosium, with stats for several games.
Thirty: A Big Game about a Big Mystery
John Wick
2005
Wicked Dead Brewing Company
144
A historical fantasy game where the PCs are among the thirty
Templar knights who disappeared in the 14th century after the
Pope declared their order to be heretics. In the game, they
are carrying a secret treasure and lost in a magical mist,
trying to find their way home. It uses a dice pool system,
including a special system for "Fraternitas" -- morale and
trust in one's fellow knights. Fraternitas dice can either be
kept to oneself or put in a pool shared with other PCs.
Thoan
Leonidas Vesperini
Orso Vesperini
1995
Jeux Descartes
430 hardback
A French-language RPG based on P.J. Farmer's World of Tiers series
of novels. The universe includes several worlds created and rules by
powerful beings called the Thoans, linked by interdimensional gates.
The central world (and the only one covered in the basic rules) is
an enormous tower with circular levels surrounding a central mountain
topped by the Lord's citadel. The basic games includes a wealth of
source material on this "World of Tiers". The rules are a dice-pool
system geared for beginners. Action resolution is by rolling d6's
equal to one's attribute, where each die over a target number counts
as 1 success. Character creation is based on a fixed set of 20
templates. Combat uses a complex system where players pre-allocate
a set of action ranks each round.
THOGS
Ilmari Virtanen
1995
self-published
A Finnish-language unusual fantasy RPG, whose title is an acronym for
"The Hunters Of Golden Sirbul". It is set on a strange fantasy world
with over 100 intelligent races (25 of which are suitable for character
races), such as the hyper-intelligent Xiga, who float in the air and
have two heads (!).
The Thol-Far RPG
Thomas Cook
1998
Thol-Far Adventures
A traditional fantasy RPG set on a slowly crumbling world,
composed of thousands of "splinters", each intended as a GM's own
personal campaign setting.
A Thousand and One Nights
Meguey Baker
2006
Night Sky Games
A storytelling RPG about courtiers in the palace of the Sultan. It
uses a rotating GM system where the player of the character telling a
story becomes the GM, casting the other players as parts in a story.
It uses a simple, abstract dice system where players pose questions
about the story and later roll the dice when the question gets
answered. Points earned through rolls can be used to progress on
three fronts (the only numerical stats of the game): Safety, Ambition,
or Freedom.
Thousand Suns
Richard Iorio II
James Maliszewski
2008
Rogue Games
A science fiction game. It uses a streamlined system, where action
resolution uses 2d12. Character creation is by choosing
skill packages based on homeworld type, and a set of career
archetype(s).
Throwing Stones
Jeff Siadek
1995
Gamesmiths, Inc.
2nd
1998
Prism Games
An RPG based on a unique set of collectible dice (aka "stones"),
each with a name printed on one face, such as "Barbarian",
"Thief", "Monk", "Wizard", "Druid", etc. Character creation is
simply by selecting 4 stones (out of over 30), and then choosing
equipment and spells. Action resolution is simply by rolling your
dice for activities. To increase the odds that certain symbols,
you can 'focus' a roll as you act, choosing some of your stones to
be re-rolled. However, your opponent then gets to re-roll some of
your stones on your next defense roll (making it worse).
Thundering Steel: The Role-Playing/Combat Game Of Warfare In The Near Future
Edwin M. Dyer
1991
Minds in One Productions
A role-playing / combat game of warfare in the near future.
Tibet the RPG
Brian St.Claire-King
2004
Vajra Enterprises
A modern-era RPG set in Tibet in 1959 as communist Chinese soldiers are
on the verge of total conquest and further atrocities against the
Tibetans. However, the game includes fantastic elements which fit
with the religion and mythology of Tibet. It uses a detailed skill-based
system, the "Organic Rule Components" system. Character creation
uses classes and limited point buy. In order, the players chooses
personality traits and worldviews, splits 80 points between eight
attributes, chooses from among 25 classes, and split 100 points
among skills (with costs based on class). Action resolution is
attribute + skill + 1d20 vs difficulty. It has a detailed combat
system with maneuvers and three Health attributes: Blood, Body,
and Incapacity.
Tigres Volants
Staphane Gally
1991
Les Créateurs Genevois
A French-language sci-fi RPG from Switzerland, with some touches
of fantasy. It is set 200 years after warlike humans unload upon a
galaxy which until then had known 10 millenia of peace. Strange
phenomena and powers have also begun to manifest.
Tilsaworld
Risto J. Hieta
Hans Zenjuga
2001
Artic Ranger Production
A small-press Finnish-language cartoon RPG based on the work of
Finnish cartoon artist Jukka Tilsa. It uses a simple system to
emphasize play as working as if you were drawing a cartoon.
Time & Temp
Unbound
Epidiah Ravachol
2009
Dig a Thousand Holes Publishing
A humorous science fiction RPG set in the modern day, where the player
characters are temp workers employed by Browne Chronometrics, a company
that fixes temporal anomalies. Since more important people pose a greater
risk to the time stream, the company instead sends temps back in time as
the least important people imaginable. It uses a mix of dice for resolution.
The players choose either Effort or Effect, and the GM determines the other.
A table determines the type of die rolled, and the result is put on a grid.
Patterns on the grid may give players special time-bending abilities or
collect Paradox. The original "Unbound" Edition consists of a standard
manila office folder with a welcome letter, an employee handbook, and a
number of cardstock handouts that contain the actual rules, as well as a
management policy guidebook for the GM.
Time and Time Again
H.N. Voss
W.P. Worzel
1984
Timeline Ltd
A realism-oriented time travel game, where the past cannot be
changed. Characters go back in time to study the past. The
system is realism-based but not easily understood or playable.
Time Drifters
Zinny Brown
James K. Shepard
1990
Dimensional Strategies
A "science fiction time travel" RPG, where the basic game is set
entirely in the Old West. It uses a universal table of attribute
plus modifiers vs percentile roll. Character creation is
random-roll attributes, class-based, and random-roll binary
skills.
Timelord
Ian Marsh
Peter Darvill-Evans
1991
Virgin Books
A licensed sci-fi role-playing game based on the BBC Television series
"Doctor Who". It uses a simple skill-based system. Action resolution
is attribute plus skill plus the difference between two d6 rolls
(giving a number between +0 and +5) vs difficulty. Many tasks are
resolved as automatic successes if attribute plus skill exceeds
difficulty. The basic game provides a large number of characters
adapted from the show, and a system for generating yourself as
someone caught up in time travel. However, there is no other
character creation system. As the authors point out, the vast
power differences of characters on the show means that any point
system will fail to represent it.
Timelords
Greg Porter
1987
BTRC
A time-travel RPG with two campaign types: In one you play
yourself, accidentally thrown from world to world by a strange
device. In the other, you play members of a "Time Patrol" who
fix kinks in the time lines caused by people like the former as
well as intentional trouble-makers. It uses a detailed skill-based
system, which uses roll d20 under skill value for success, but
modifiers use a multiplicative chart rather than adding/subtracting
(i.e. a +4 modifier adds 20% of your skill: changing 5 to 6, 10
to 12, etc.) Each skill has a learning rate determined by one or
more attributes. For example, Survival is linked to Intelligence
and Perception, while Music is linked to Intelligence, Perception,
and Dexterity. Two other notable features: there is a system for
rating yourself to determine the <i>player's</i>
attributes; and there are no fixed hit points.
Timemaster
Mark Acres
Gali Sanchez
Garry Spiegle
Andria Hayday
Smith
1983
Pacesetter
A time-travel RPG, set in 7128 in the time parallel that has
advanced the furthest into the metafuture. A Time War devastated
humanity, after which those whose ancestors were not wiped out
decided to fund "Time Corps" to guard over time -- opposed by
the alien Demoreans (from parallel A-217), who intend to take
over all of time destroying human history. It uses a variant of
the original <a href="GAME#chill">Chill</a> system.
Timeship
Herbie Brennan
1982
Yaquinto
A time-travel RPG. Characters travel back in time using
"Personal Energy" which limits how much they can bring with them.
The system is simple and loose, to encourage wild action.
Timestream: A Role-playing Game
Nathan Paoletta
2005
Hamsterprophet Productions
74
Timestream is an RPG of cinematic time travel, where the PCs are one of
three types: Travelers (who can go forward and back through time, bring
others to another time, or view the past or future), Time Manipulators
(who can change the time around them, slow things down, speed them up,
or even loop time), and Thralls (a mix of the two but they serve a
master who can dictate what and when they do things). The characters
are connected to each other by a set of Anchors -- important people to
the characters -- with each PC having an association to another PC's
anchors. It uses narrational conflict mechanics use stat + 2d6 vs
(opposing stat or difficulty) + 2d6, where the side which rolls higher
determines the outcome. PCs also have two stats for "Time" and "Strain",
where Time is spent to manipulate time, and Strain results from failures
during such. Strain can eventually pop you back to your own time with
bodily damage, or pull you outside of time into Limbo.
Tinker's Damn
Andrew LaRoy
1997
Studio Cranium
An multigenre anime-based RPG. The system uses d20 for
resolution and d6 for damage and other effects. The main
rulebook (103 pages) includes several campaign settings:
including police in a modern-day magic world, a space opera
campaign, and friendly competition of ace pilots from all sides
after WWII.
To Challenge Tomorrow
Dave Nalle
1982
Ragnarok Press
2nd
1983
3rd
1992
A universal RPG system, developed from the fantasy RPG
<a href="GAME#ysgarth">Ysgarth</a>. It uses a percentile skill
system, with limited point-bought character creation. It has an
action point based combat system. <br>
There were numerous background books, some which came with
complete TCT mechanics, including: "By the Gods" (mythological),
"Challengers" (superhero), "Cyberia" (cyberpunk), "Esperagents"
(psychic espionage), and "Triad" (sci-fi).
Tokyo NOVA
Taro Suzubuki
1993
F.E.A.R.
Tokyo NOVA: The Revolution
1998
A Japanese-language cyberpunk action RPG with playing-card-based
mechanics similar to <a href="GAME#castlefalkenstein">
Castle Falkenstein</a>. There are 22 character archetypes based
on the major arcana of the tarot. You choose a combination of three to
make your character. The first archetype is your public identity or
profession, the second is your true nature, and the third is your hobby
or sideline. Archetypes include Politicians (Karisma), Bodyguards (Kabuto),
Biker (Kaze-J), Seducer (Manikin), Corporate Executive (Exek),
Street Samurai (Katana), and more. Your choice of archetypes determines
your four stats: Reason, Passion (emotional manipulation and charisma),
Life (physical prowess), and Mundane (influence, money, and connections).
Resolution is by playing a card from your hand of 3-4 cards and adding
your stat number versus difficulty number (from 2 to 30). You also have
a skill level from 0 (unskilled = zero suits) to 4 (all suits).
You may also draw a card from the deck rather than playing from your
hand, but there is then a chance that you will fumble upon failure.
The present edition is "Tokyo NOVA: the Revolution," with a supplement
("Grand X Cross") in the works. There is also a related play-by-mail
game on the magazine "Discovery."
Tomb Reavers
Jim Anuszczyk
2002
Dreaming Merchant Press
107
A fantasy RPG published in electronic format, set in an original
fantasy world on the "Tomb Coast" of the Draemon Empire. The PCs
are "Reavers" -- commoners who make their fortune by looting ancient
graves protected by powerful guardians. Their code is to only reave
tombs after the soul has departed, which happens when all people who
knew the person have themselves died. However, it is still illegal
and the Reavers must stay clear of the authorities.
Tombstones n' Tumbleweeds
Christopher Bracket
2004
Game Werks
56
A skirmish-level wargame of the Wild West.
Tomorrow Knights
Eddy Webb
Cynthia Celeste Miller
Roy Richardson
Rod Whigham
2005
Z-Man Games
An action-heavy sci-fi RPG with cybernetics and power armor mixed with
elements of noir and pulp. It is set in a near future where the
Universal Corporate Council dominates the world both as a conglomorate
and as a megacorp unto itself. Some governments, including the U.S.,
are opposed to its policies. A limited nuclear exchange has fouled
the global climate, warfare is now dominated by power armor troops,
and cybernetics are common but still detrimental. Action resolution
is by rolling 2d6 + trait vs a difficulty number from 3 (Dead Simple)
to 18 (Impossible). Character creation is point-based, buying traits
in three broad categories of Body, Mind, and Style.
Tomtar och Troll
Carl Johan Stróm
1986
self-published
A small-press Swedish-language fantasy-genre RPG, whose title
translates to "Gnomes and Trolls". The first and only publication
was "Bok 1, Hjältarnas Återkomst", which translates
to "Book 1, The Return of the Heroes". The system is similar to
<a href="GAME#traveller">Traveller</a>, with
attributes from Chaosium's
<a href="GAME#basic">Basic Role-Playing</a>.
The Tools of Ignorance
clash bowley
2011
Flying Mice LLC
53
A modern-day baseball RPG where the player characters are players on
the same professional team, where the main action is playing out key
games of a season. It uses a version of the StarPool system, also used
in later editions of the
<a href="GAME#starcluster">Starcluster</a> RPG. The player
rolls a number of d20s equal to skill rating, where every die under
attribute rating is a success. Character creation is by picking 1 of 8
Background templates, picking 1 of 7 Professional templates, combining
the bonuses from each, rolling to determine handedness, and
then applying system-defined Edges and player-defined Traits.
Toon
Greg Costikyan
Warren Spector
1984
Steve Jackson Games
Deluxe Ed
1991
A cartoon RPG with simple mechanics (roll under skill on 2d6).
It features a lot of pure comedy: characters have "schticks" and
receive "plot points" whenever the player makes the GM laugh.
When they run out of hit points, characters simply "fall down" -
forcing the player to sit out for three minutes (real time) after
which he comes back as normal.
Top Secret
Merle M. Rasmussen
1980
TSR
Top Secret/SI
Douglas Niles
1987
A modern-day espionage game. The original focused closely on
realistic intelligence techniques, while SI incorporated more of
pulp action. The systems are almost unrelated.
Torg
Greg Gorden
1990
West End Games
Revised and Expanded
Jim Ogle
2005
West End Games
A multi-genre game set on Earth being invaded by beings from
other dimensions ("cosms"), who have transformed swaths of Earth
into "realms" where different laws apply: simulating a traditional
genre with a twist. i.e. Egypt is transformed into a pulp action
realm, England is transformed into a traditional fantasy realm,
etc. The system uses a 1d20 roll (open-ended on 10 or 20) which
refers to a universal chart that give "bonus". Action resolution
is by comparing bonus + skill vs difficulty. It has an
exponential scale of game "values" similar to the MEGS system
(from <a href="GAME#dcheroes">DC Heroes</a>). It also
uses a "Drama Deck" of special cards. Each round in combat, a card is
turned up to show initiative and special opportunities. Further, each
player has a hand of 4 cards which can be played to cause special
events.
Tough Justice
Ian Warner
2011
Postmortem Studios
276
A historical RPG where the player characters are legal teams arguing a
capital case in England during the years of "The Bloody Code" - from
the end of the 17th to the beginning of the 19th Centuries. There are
two teams of players: prosecution and defense. Character creation
begins by distributing 18 points among six attributes: Authority,
Jibe, Charm, Investigation, Violence, and Composure. They then pick
two +1 traits, one +2 trait, one merit and one flaw. Player characters
then choose teams and create a defendant by a series of random rolls for
sex, age, and profession. Play follows with an explicit order of play
for the arrest and court case. Actions can include legal maneuvers
as well as assaulting an opponent, intimidating witnesses, seducing
key figures, and more. Core resolution is by rolling 1d6 and adding
stats and special bonuses, compared to a difficulty or opposed roll -
called the "Beer and Crisps" system.
Trail of Cthulhu
Kenneth Hite
2008
Pelgrane Press
A horror game set in the 1930s, based on the works of H.P. Lovecraft.
It uses a version of the "GUMSHOE" system that first appeared in
<a href="GAME#esoterrorists">The Esoterrorists</a>.
It uses diceless point-spending to resolve investigative skills,
and die rolls modified by points for core skills. Character creation
is limited point-based, with no attributes and splitting between
the 39 investigative skills and the 13 core skills. Characters
have two ratings for mental health: Stability (short-term, affected
by mundane horrors) and Sanity (long-term, affected by Cthulhu mythos
exposure and knowledge).
Trauma
1st [French]
1986
"Chroniques d'outre monde" Magazine
2nd [French]
1988
Aujourd'hui Communication
1st [English]
1992
Darcsyde Productions
A modern RPG about violent crime, originally published in
magazine format. The concept is fairly "normal" characters who
get thrown into realistic violent situation and must fight for
their lives -- softened somewhat that characters who die are
returned to life. It uses random-roll attributes and
point-bought skills. The combat system is complex, realistic,
and (predictably) deadly.
TRAUMA Universalrollenspiel
Markus D. Still
2003
Flying Games
164
A German-language universal RPG system. It uses a detailed percentile
skill-based system, rolling under stat on 1d100 for success -- with
grades of success for lower or higher rolls. There are 18 attributes
(6 physical, 6 mental, and 6 perception) rated from 25 to 100 for
normal humans. Character creation includes either point-bought or
random-roll attributes. Skills are bought using points based on the
openly chosen age of the character, with increased age balanced by
reduction in attributes. It includes a detailed and deadly combat
system with short combat rounds of 3 seconds in which combatants get
from 0 to 2 actions depending on their reaction rolls and their weapons.
It includes a number of settings: Parydia (fantasy), T1111 (fantasy),
T-40K (stone age), T2222 (low SF), T3333 (high SF), T50K (dark SF)
Worlds are rated with a magical, a technical, and a political number.
Skills and equipment have a technical rating that may not be higher
than the number of the setting.
Traveller
Marc Miller
1977
GDW
2nd
Marc Miller
1981
GDW
MegaTraveller
1987
The New Era
Frank Chadwick
Dave Nilsen
1993
4th
1996
Imperium Games
5th
Gareth Hanrahan
2008
Mongoose Publishing
The first science fiction RPG, this is set in a large intersteller
human empire ("The Imperium"), competing with other human strains
(the psionic "Zhodani" and the Earth-derived "Solomani") along
with select alien races (the wolf-like Vargr, starfish-like
Hivers, and lion-like Aslan). It is a mix of hard sci-fi with
isolated space-opera elements: notably psionics. <br>
The mechanics change greatly between editions. The original
and second editions (currently being reprinted by author Marc Miller's
<a href="GAME#farfuture">Far Future Enterprises</a>) have
d6-based resolution -- generally roll 2d6 under a target number.
Character creation uses a random-roll lifepath generation. The 2nd
and 3rd edition converted many of the rules over to the GDW house
system. The fifth edition from Mongoose also has separately-published
settings including a "Judge Dredd" setting and "Strontium Dogs" setting
(based on the British comics series).
Traveller20
Martin J. Dougherty
Hunter Gordon
2002
QuikLink Interactive
464
This is an adaptation of the original
<a href="GAME#traveller">Traveller</a> game and
universe to the D20 System from third edition
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a>.
It adapts the rules by adding in two new attributes (Education and
Social Standing). It has new core classes and adds in rules for
prior history in character generation, similar to the original
Traveller rules except that this adds experience to the character,
raising it to levels beyond first.
Traveller 2300 (aka 2300 A.D.)
Marc Miller
Frank Chadwick
Timothy B. Brown
1986
GDW
2300 A.D.
Marc Miller
Frank Chadwick
Lester W. Smith
Timothy B. Brown
1988
A spacefaring sci-fi RPG, unrelated to the original Traveller in
background or system. It is set in 2300 A.D. where Earth has
explored the surrounding several hundred worlds, establishing
many colonies and meeting a handful of intelligent races (none
suitable for PC's). It uses a "task" based system, which is
simple but has many options. The basic roll is 1d10 + stat vs
difficulty, where the stat varies (skill, attribute, or
combinations). Character creation is random-roll attributes and
point-bought skills based on career path. It includes rules for
spaceship combat and world generation.
TRI
Gunter Rumland u.a.
1999
Rumland & Flory
A German-language dimension-hopping RPG with 3 backgrounds:
a 30's pulp setting (Terra), a fantasy setting (Rulegard),
and a cyberpunk setting (Ion). The PC's are special figures
("Nebelgaenger") who can jump between the worlds. The rules come
in three books: Player book (208 pages), World book (232 pages),
and GM book (176 pages).
Trials of the Grail
Jasper McChesney
2004
Primeval Games Press
70
A themed RPG designed for a variety of settings from ancient history
to cyberpunk. There are four constants: the PCs are "knights",
their "king" is dying, the "kingdom" around them is dying, and
the "grail" is the only thing that can cure the king and, thus,
the kingdom. However, each element can be broadly interpreted.
One player is the lead character, who begins as a less experienced
"knight" but is fated to save the kingdom. It uses a storytelling
system, where players can spend narrative points to control outcomes,
and can . Characters advance by adding to their Virtue stat by
doing good deeds.
Tribe 8
Philippe R Boulle
Stephane Brochu
Joshua Mosqueira Asheim
1998
Dream Pod 9
A post-magical-apocalypse RPG, set in a ruined city where
matriarchal tribes of humans hold out against demons (the
"Z'Bri") who had formerly enslaved them. The seven official
tribes were founded by the mythic Fatimas who freed humans from
the Z'Bri. Now, however, the seven official tribes are largely
corrupt, while the organized outcasts are known as "Tribe 8" who
identify with the only male Fatima who died in the war.
Magic is available through tapping into the "River of Dreams".
It uses the "Silhouette" system, adding a semi-freeform magic
system. Character creation is limited point-bought.
Trinity
Andrew Bates
Ken Cliffe
1997
White Wolf
A sci-fi superhero game, set in the 22nd century where powerful
"Psions" defend the Earth from twisted "Aberrants" (who wield
"quanta" rather than "psi"). The Aberrants were expelled from
Earth after a massive war, but having made interstellar colonies
some are now returning to reclaim it. It uses a variant of the
"Storyteller" system. It was formerly called Æon, but the
name was changed for legal reasons.
Tri-Stat DX Core System
Mark C. MacKinnon
2003
Guardians of Order
A universal rules system, published as a free electronic download
and as a low-cost bare-bones rulebook. The rules are a variant of
the Tri-Stat system from
<a href="GAME#silveragesentinels">Silver Age Sentinels</a>,
which itself was based on the earlier generic anime system
<a href="GAME#bigeyessmallmouth">Big Eyes, Small Mouth</a>.
This is not specific to anime, and adds in scaling rules to allow
for low-power realistic play as well as superheroes. The "DX" refers
to using different dice depending on the type of campaign: D4s for
low-power play, up to d12s for superheroes. It has three core
attributes of Body, Mind, and Soul. Character creation is open
point-based.
Triune
WJ MacGuffin
2002
Happy Bishop Games
A science fiction RPG where humanity discovered connections to
Heaven and Hell while attempting to enter theoretical hyperspace.
This began a massive war that ended with a treaty that humanity
shall remain neutral and Heaven and Hell will leave humanity alone.
The Hegemony of humanity then banned all religion and worship. The
player characters are enforcers - para-military agents who investigate
angels and devils along with their human allies. However, they might
secretly be working for Heaven or Hell, gaining powers and working
against their organization. Among other high-tech, the Hegemony has the
Weave, an omnipresent network that lets characters pull gear out of
thin air or even resurrect themselves upon death. Resolution uses
the Effort System, a strategic d10 mechanic where players can decide
how much risk and reward with each roll. Players roll 1d10 under
attribute to determine success or failure, and then roll from 1d6
to 3d6 for the level of success/failure based on the level of risk
chosen. Characters must choose "faiths" for each of three paths:
Heaven, Hell, and Hegemony - and have a level rating for each path.
Characters can change only by re-allocating attribute points upon
death or in getting Faith Points to increase ratings in their paths.
Trollbabe
Ron Edwards
2002
Adept Press
A fantasy RPG where the PC's are peculiar creatures: female half-human,
half-troll hybrids, known as "trollbabes". It is set on a vaguely
defined fantasy world based on Germanic/Norse cultural types.
The system is strongly focused on storytelling. The character has
only a single stat: roll low to succeed in fights, roll high to
succeed in magic. A limited number of re-rolls are allowed per
session based on a list of events or relationships.
Trollvinter
Krister Sundelin
unknown
Rävsvans Förlag
A Swedish-language fantasy RPG, based on folklore and fairy
tales. The campaign world is a mix of traditonal stories and
myths and regular fantasy.
True20 Adventure Roleplaying
1st Electronic
Steve Kenson
2005
Green Ronin Publishing
97
1st Print
Steve Kenson
2006
224
A generic fantasy RPG -- a standalone system loosely based on the
D20 System used by 3rd edition
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a>,
adding in rules variations from
<a href="GAME#mutantsandmasterminds">Mutants &
Masterminds</a>. This is a minor variant of the True20
System used by the
<a href="GAME#bluerose">Blue Rose</a> RPG.
There are only three core classes: adept, expert, and warrior -- and
variety instead comes from more and more variety of feats. It also
includes a wound track damage system based on a 1d20 roll to resist
damage, and a new magic system based on feats, where spells cost
fatigue. The combat system is modified to remove full-round attacks
and attacks of opportunity, and adding some non-attack options.
Truth & Justice
Chad Underkoffler
2005
Atomic Sock Monkey Press
133
A superhero RPG of heroism and mad, beautiful ideas. It uses a
variant of the Prose Descriptive Qualities (PDQ) system used
in <a href="GAME#deadinside">Dead Inside</a> and
<a href="GAME#monkeyninjapiraterobot">
Monkey, Ninja, Pirate, Robot: the RPG</a> --
streamlined and chromed-up for superheroic flexibility, simplicity,
and speed. The core book includes three sample settings:
"Second-String Supers" (minor supers in the town of Drakesville);
"SuperCorps" (a futuristic corporation); and
"Fanfare for the Amplified Man."
Tunnels and Trolls
Ken St. Andre
1975
Flying Buffalo
2nd
1977
3rd
1979
4th
1980
5th
1984
5.5th
2005
Unofficial 6th
2005
Outlaw Press
7th/30th anniversary
2005
Fiery Dragon
Flying Buffalo
7.5th
2008
A traditional fantasy game, similar to but simpler than
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a>.
It uses only six-sided dice, where combat has each side rolls their
dice and totals them up. The side with the highest total wins the
round. The difference in the rolls is then divided up among the
losing side as damage. The 7th edition, published through Fiery
Dragon Productions, saw a number of changes, including a new
attribute for Wizardry, and determining character level based
on the highest of a character's class attributes. The 7.5th
edition added a solo adventure, GM adventure, spellbook, and
monster compendium to the core book.
TWERPS
Manda
Jeff Dee
1988
Reindeer Games
Expanded
Lou Zocchi
Niels Erickson
1995
Gamescience
An ultra-simple universal system
(short for "The World's Easiest Role-Playing Game"), a parody of Steve
Jackson Games' GURPS. It has only one stat: Strength, that is used
for all rolls. The roll uses 1d10. It has a surprising number
of genre books, including: "Fly-by-Knights", "Kung Fu Dragons",
"Rocket Rangers", "Space Cadets", "Superdudes", and "Twek".
Twilight 2000
Frank Chadwick
1984
GDW
2nd
1990
A post-nuclear-apocalypse RPG where the characters are soldiers in
military units stuck in Europe just after the bombs fell and
civilization collapsed. It uses a percentile system: roll under
skill*10 ("easy"), skill*5 ("average"), or skill*2.5
("difficult"). Character creation is random-roll
attributes and point-bought skills, with a military career
life-path.
Twilight Imperium
Todd Nilsen
Jason S. Williams
Darrell Hardy
1999
Fantasy Flight Games
A sci-fi space opera RPG with a focus on politics and intrigue,
set in the universe of the board-game "Twilight Imperium" (by
Christian T. Petersen). The setting has six great races
competing for dominance of the Lazax Imperium, currently
re-expanding after being reduced to their homeworlds by the
devastating Twilight Wars. The system is a standard percentile
system: roll under attribute+skill. Character creation is
point-based, with racial and professional packages.
Two-Fisted Tales
Matt Stevens
2003
Spectre Press
120
Revised
Matt Stevens
2007
Politically Incorrect Games
192
A pulp action RPG, in the style of the 30's and 40's pulp tales.
Character creation uses 21 character templates, plus customization
rules to modify these.
Ultima Eclisse
G. Niccolai
F. Baroni
M. Corsini
A. Silvestrini
1993
Draco Flamula Games
An Italian-language fantasy genre RPG, whose title translates as
"Last Eclipse". The design is strongly inspired by
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a>.
Ultimate Power
Blake Mobley
1994
The Game Lords, Ltd.
A fantasy genre RPG.
Ultima Thule: Roolipeli muinaisessa Pohjolassa
Ilmari Piela
1999
Suomalaisen kirjallisuuden seura
80
A Finnish-language historical RPG set in medieval and pre-medieval
Finland. Although this game touches the national epic of Kalevala,
it does not focus on it. It includes magical spells and monsters,
including historical resources for authentic-feeling spells.
It uses a rules-lite system.
L'Ultime Épreuve
Fabrice Cayla
1983
Jeux Actuels
2nd
1984
3rd
1987
A French-language fantasy genre RPG, the first French RPG. It
is set in the largely open world of Linaïs, which is
inhabited by six types of humans: mountain people, forest people,
sea people, etc. The PCs have the defined goal to fight against
the lords of destruction, become powerful enough to pass the
ultimate test, cross the door, and join the lords of balance.
It uses a skill-based system similar to Chaosium's
<a href="GAME#basic">Basic Role-playing</a>, with
six attributes (determined by 3d6): Intelligence, Force,
Dextérité, Pouvoir, Constitution, Charisme.
There are also broad skills (only 10 in the original game),
calculated by the sum of two or three attributes. These are
increased only be increasing the attributes themselves. Character
advancement is done by buying "training courses" in schools that
increase attributes. It includes a magic system based on your
Magic skill rating, with choice and number of spells determined by
your skill. The expanded second edition is entitled
"Les Chroniques de Linaïs".
Umläut: Game Of Metal
1st (electronic)
Rich Stokes
2009
Lord of the Pies
1st (print)
2010
A GMless storytelling game for 3-8 players, where players (individually
or in pairs) take on the roles of heavy metal bands rather than an
individual characters. It is designed for 3-4 hours of play with no
prep, using playing cards rather than dice. The system centers on
charting their bands' careers as they rehearse, play gigs, fight
among themselves and pull crazy publicity stunts. Bands have four
stats (Hope, Ego, Fanbase and Cash) and three performance traits
(Power, Technique and Stagecraft). It uses a card draw scene resolution
mechanic similar to <a href="GAME#primetimeadventures">
Primetime Adventures</a> and
<a href="GAME#contenders">Contenders</a>.
Each player takes a turn with a scene, with the players on their
left acting as "roadie" (opposition) for the turn. The active
player and roadie are dealt a number of cards based on stats and
money spent. If the player has more blacks, he succeeds in the
scene. Whichever of the two has the highest card gets narration
rights.
Underground
Ray Winninger
1993
Mayfair
A dark-future superhero RPG, set in 2020 where the superpowered
veterans of past wars are abandoned and oppressed by a corrupt
U.S. government. The system is based on <a href="GAME#dcheroes">
DC Heroes</a>. Character creation is point-based, spending
government money on super-soldier aspects: including genetic
surgery (i.e. superpowers), recruitment (i.e. attributes/skills),
cash (i.e. equipment), and reconditioning (i.e. curing power
induced stress). There are random aspects to superpowers and
reconditioning. The system also includes strategic-level
mechanics of dealing with the community's problems such as
corruption and safety -- which are numerically rated, and can be
affected by PCs.
Under My Skin: Who do you love?
Emily Care Boss
2008
Black & Green Games
A live-action RPG about romantic relationships for 4 to 8 people, though
optional tabletop rules are also included. Play is aimed at taking from
4 to 6 hours. There is a GM (Director), but there are no rules for combat
or conflict resolution. Characters have ratings (from 1-3) for intimacy
and passion for a number of relationships, possibly including Partner,
Friend, Best Friend, and New Flame. Play proceeds by going through a
number of scenes according to a general structure, though all details
are left up to the players.
Under the Bed
Joshua A.C. Newman
2005
The Glyph Press
A horror RPG about childhood perils. The PCs are a child's toys who
are trying to defend the child but also competing with each other
for the child's affection. Each character has a set of binary traits,
and a rating for Favoritism. Conflict resolution is by rolling
opposed sets of d8s, adding dice for relevant traits, where the highest
roll wins.
Underworld
Gareth-Michael Skarka
Laura D. Hanson
T.S. Luikart
Sean Jaffe
2000
Synister Creative
An urban fantasy RPG, along the lines of the television series
<u>Neverwhere</u> by Neil Gaiman or the television series
<u>Beauty and the Beast</u> by Ron Koslow. It is set in
and below the New York City subway system, which were somehow manipulated
to run along magical ley lines ("The Radiance"). It uses a rules-light
system of coin flipping, built for play in either tabletop or live-action
mode. It uses class-based character creation. Character creation
involves choosing 1 of 9 Breeds, 1 of 10 Guilds, 3 Defining
Traits, 3 Secondary Skills from the Guild list, and choosing
starting equipment. The Breeds range from intelligent animals
to magical robots to wandering immortals. Guilds are roughly
professions.
Undiscovered: The Quest for Adventure
Adam D. Theriault
Antonio Da Rosa
Phillip Theriault
2001
Eilfin Publishing
A swords-and-sorcery fantasy RPG, set on the world of "Arkas".
This is inhabited by traditional races like humans, elves,
and dwarves as well as new races like the Dusters (humans with
faint reptilian ancestry), Seraphs (a magical race of neuter
beings), Muklags (hairy Bigfoot-like humanoids), and Dracomensc
(humanoid dragons). It uses a percentile skill-based system,
rolling under skill or attribute on 1d100. Character creation
is classless and point-based, with some random adjustments during
the process. There are also 150 skills each with five levels.
Advancement is level-based.
The Unexplained: Chronicles of the FPI
Bradford Younie
2010
Carnivore Games
296
A modern-day supernatural RPG where the player characters are members of
the Foundation for Paranormal Investigation - investigating ghosts, aliens,
rare and monstrous creatures, and magicians. It uses a variant of the
<a href="GAME#fudge">FUDGE</a> system, extending on the
<a href="GAME#nowplaying">Now Playing</a> system,
where the FPI was introduced as a sample campaign.
Universalis
Ralph Mazza
Mike Holmes
2002
Ramshead Publishing
A universal storytelling role-playing system. The system has no
no game-master. Instead, each player acts as GM to some degree
by use of coin-spending mechanics. Players may make Complications
to the story which are targetted at other players. Rules resolve
who controls using die rolls and the traits of the characters
involved.
Universe
John H. Butterfield
1981
SPI
2nd
1982
SPI / Bantam Books
A sci-fi game around interstellar adventure in a free-market
Federation (similar to <a href="GAME#traveller">Traveller</a>),
featuring semi-realistic high tech and prevalent psionics, but
with little background information. The system is a complex
percentile skill system, with the bonus to the roll being the
square of the skill. The character creation and combat systems
are both particularly involved.
Universe, The Sci-Fi RPG
Mark Wilkinson
Michael Wilkinson
William T. Pace
2003
Tower Ravens LLC
A science fiction role-playing game set on an independent world in
the midst of several galactic empires, some of which are waring against
alien incursions. Characters are skill based. System uses percentile
dice and a universal lookup table.
Universo
Pedro Alcántara
1993
Ediciones Cronópolis
A Spanish-language universal RPG. It uses a percentile system with
characteristics and skills. Advancement is level-based. It
includes rules about magic, psionics, robots, and time and space
travel.
Universom
Silrin
Laurent Trémel
Nicolas Théry
Eric Bouchaud
Fred Pannetier
Franck Bouchaud
1988
Siroz
Koros
Laurent Trémel
Nicolas Théry
Eric Bouchaud
Fred Pannetier
Yann
José Das Neves
1988
Berlin XVIII
Olivier Noël
Laurent Trémel
Fréderic Texier
Eric Bouchaud
Nicolas Théry
1989
A French-language series of sci-fi mini-RPGs: "Silrin",
"Koros", "Berlin XVIII", and a few others. Each book detailed a
single star system. <a href="GAME#berlinxviii">Berlin XVIII</a>
was later released as its own game. It uses a percentile skill-based
system.
Unknown Armies
Greg Stolze
John Tynes
1998
Atlas Games
2nd
2002
336
A modern-day occult conspiracy RPG with an emphasis on "furious
action", based around the concept that the cosmos will soon die
and be reborn. The PC's are conspirators within the occult
underground, trying to influence what the next world will be
like. It uses a percentile skill-based system. Action resolution
is by rolling under skill on d100, where "doubles" (11,22,etc.) are
special results, and quality of success is measured by the roll
itself. Character creation is limited point-based, with freeform
skills. There is a mental health system which divides trauma into
five categories in which mental stress points can accumulate.
UNSanctioned
Greg Poehlein
Paul Arden Lidberg
2000
Nightshift Games
A dark superheroes RPG, set in an alternate 1999 where
meta-humans (i.e. superheroes) have been working for the United
Nations since the 1940's. Known as "Peacekeepers" (for their
leader), they have come to dominate the planet. The PC's are
meta-human rebels against the now-oppressive U.N. supers.
The system uses d20 rolls for skills, but 2d10 rolls for combat.
Character creation is point-bought, with 3 attributes (Body,
Mind, and Agility) plus skills and powers.
Unsung
Kirt Dankmyer
2005
Ivanhoe Unbound
A narrative game with no defined setting, but focuses on situation where
the character make tough moral and ethical choices under pressure --
such as inner city police, American soldiers in the Vietnam War, or the
American Civil War. It uses a simple one-die mechanic, where a loss
during a stressful situation means that the other players may decide
what happens to the character.
Untitled
Keith Senkowski
2005
Bob Goat Press
A game designed mainly as an artifact, about a man in the modern world
who is struggling with insanity and suicide. It has only a single
player taking the part of the protagonist, lead by multiple antagonist
players (like GMs). The game comes as a hand-sewn journal with hand
written notes, a letter, a rapsheet, a photocopy of a hand written
journal, and an audio recording.
Urban Faerie
James Desborough
2004
Postmortem Studios
44
A humorous RPG about faeries as envisioned in Victorian England, now
adapted to living in modern times. For example, Oberon had a midlife
crisis and moved off to L.A. to start an Internet porn business.
The faerie population is now divided into the "Seedy" and the "Unseedy"
courts. The game uses a very simple system, where resolution works
by 1d6 + attribute + possible bonus for one of two skills versus
difficulty or opposed roll. Character creation is by choosing one
of 25 archetypes, which defines your base attributes and a general
skill ("thing they're good at"). You choose one additional skill,
and may optionally raise one attribute by 1 and lower another by 1.
Urchin
Clint Krause
2007
Clint Krause Games
36
A short modern fantasy RPG based on the independent film of the same
name by John Harlacher. It is set in an underground haven for the
homeless beneath Manhattan called Scum City. The place is ruled by
a figure called the Old Man, who has promised to lead the inhabitants
to a paradise within the hollow earth once he finds five noble souls.
It uses a simple original system intended to force players to be
proactive.
Usagi Yojimbo
Greg Stolze
1997
Gold Rush Games
An RPG set in 17th century Japan, based on the anthropomorphic animal
comic books by Stan Sakai about a deadly rabbit ronin. The inhabitants
are all anthropomorphic animals in an otherwise fairly historical setting.
It uses the <a href="GAME#fuzion">Instant Fuzion</a> system.
The system includes 4 attributes, 11 races (i.e. animal species), and
9 job packages. This is unrelated from the later RPG adaptation,
<a href="GAME#usagiyojimbo_goldrush">Usagi Yojimbo</a>
by Jason Holmgren and Pieter van Hiel for Sanguine Productions.
The Usagi Yojimbo Role-Playing Game
Jason Holmgren
Pieter van Hiel
2005
Sanguine Productions
An RPG set in 17th century Japan, based on the anthropomorphic animal
comic books by Stan Sakai about a deadly rabbit ronin -- the second
RPG adaptation, after Greg Stolze's game
<a href="GAME#usagiyojimbo_goldrush">Usagi Yojimbo</a>
for Gold Rush Games. The inhabitants are all anthropomorphic animals
in an otherwise fairly historical setting. It uses a modified version
of the step-die system from the
<a href="GAME#ironclaw">Ironclaw</a> game.
Uuhraah!
Bob King
1976
Blackhawk Games
A silly prehistoric RPG emphasizing cavemen vs dinosaur combat.
Valence
Colin Fredericks
2005
Valent Games
A space opera science fantasy game set in an original background
in the year 3029 A.D. There are ten races divided into four
megacorporation cultures, along with four remnant cultures,
and scattered independents. The human empire has disintegrated
after an artificial slave race (now known as "demons") rebelled.
The other races include the reptilian Caractingessen, aquatic
silicon-based Valorians, plant-like Nesti, snake-like Sa'crontor,
aptly named Ogres, the artificially perfect Archangels, and others.
There is also magic, known as "lording". Action resolution is
1d20 + attribute + skill vs difficulty. Character creation is
selecting defaults for race, selecting one of 17 classes, followed
by advantages, disadvantages, and skills.
Valherjar: The Chosen Slain
Greg Spyridis
2006
Game Monkey Press
233
A modern-day urban fantasy RPG inspired by classic Norse mythology
where the player characters are Valherjar - an elite caste of fallen
warriors from all cultures and times resurrected by the Norse gods to
fight in Ragnarok. They are divided into six groups by their patron
god: Frigga, Heimdall, Odin, Sif, Thor or Tyr. Each warrior is
nimated by six runestones implanted in their bodies, and has other
abilities such as accelerated healing, ability to not eat or drink,
and possible rune magic. It uses an original system called the
AOR Gaming System. Resolution is based on rolling 3d6, then taking
two dice to add to the appropriate stat to compare to difficulty,
while the third die is used for initiative ("Action Opportunity Roll").
Characters have eight attributes: Dexterity, Agility, Strength,
Endurance, Intelligence, Perception, Charisma and Will, ranked
from 0 to 4 for mortal humans, while others may go up to 6.
Character creation is limited point-based, spending 12 priority points
among 4 categories (Attributes, Skill, Rune Magic, and Prestige).
Each category then has options based on the priority points spent.
Valley of the Pharaohs
Matthew Balent
1983
Palladium Books
A fantasy/historical RPG set in ancient Egypt, using a variant of the
<a href="GAME#palladiumfantasy">Palladium System</a>.
Character creation is random-roll caste (Nobility, Clergy, Bureaucracy,
Commons) and attributes (Strength, Speed, Intellect, Power, and Persona);
with a chosen occupation within the caste (Soldier, Priest, Scholar,
Merchant, Thief), and partly chosen skills based on occupation.
Valtyr Chronicles
Chuck D. Yager
2009
self-published
132
A fantasy RPG set in on an original fantasy world, Valtyr.
It uses a skill-based dice pool system. Resolution is by rolling
a number of d6s based on skill, where every 5-6 is a success.
The rulebook is independently published via
<a href="http://www.lulu.com/spotlight/lavaking">Lulu.com</a>,
while notes are available at the
<a href="http://thehiddenobelisk.blogspot.com">designer's blog</a>.
Vampire Hunter$
Mark Arsenault
Paul Arden Lidberg
1999
Nightshift Games
A horror spoof RPG about mercenary employess of a worldwide
franchise monster-extermination service. The system is the
"Cinematic Adventure System", which uses totalled dice vs
difficulty.
Vampire: The Dark Ages
Kevin Hassall
Jennifer Hartshorn
1996
White Wolf
A variant of the <a href="GAME#vampirethemasquerade">Vampire:
The Masquerade</a> RPG set in medieval times, including the
complete rules adapted for that time period.
Vampire: The Masquerade
Mark Rein•Hagen
Graeme Davis
Tom Dowd
Lisa Stevens
Stewart Wieck
1991
White Wolf
2nd
1992
Revised
1998
A popular horror RPG, set in a Gothic-Punk "World of Darkness" inspired
by Anne Rice's novels where clans of vampires vie for supremacy.
It uses a dice-pool system (the "Storyteller" system), rolling a
set of d10's equal to (attribute + skill) where each roll over
target number is 1 success. Character creation is limited point-based.
Vanishing Point
Ashok Desai
2005
Sane Studios
346
2nd
2007
281
A RPG set in an alternate Victorian world ruled by a totalitarian
government, populated by insane and/or enlightened people who have
vanished from Mundane Earth - along with strange animals, plants, and
other races. It includes an original system. Resolution uses a d8 dice
pool system where players roll dice equal to talent, with 8s being
open-ended. The highest die is added to attribute and compared to the
difficulty or opposed roll. The core attributes are Physique, Agility,
Dexterity, Knowledge and Insight - each rated 0 to 6, with 1 being human
average. Character creation is limited point-based, with an optional
random-roll variant. Players distribute 5 points among attributes over
the base for their genus, and the further points for talents. The
core rules include 14 races, 38 optional career packages, and
21 pseudo-magical abilities.
Västmark
3rd
Krister Sundelin
2003
Rävsvans Förlag
A Swedish-language historical fantasy RPG set in the Saxon kingdom
of Västmark in the year 1192. The setting is based on
various chivalric myth and legend as well as history. The Third
Crusade rages in the Holy Land, causing enmities between the
Holy Roman Empire, France and England is temporarily laid aside
in order to free the Holy Land. However, there is an ancient
darkness rising on Lyonia, an island southwest of Britain.
Venetia Obscura
unknown
2000
editore il Pentacolo
Nexus Editrice
An Italian-language sci-fi RPG, set in an obscure future Venice
where different factions fight for control. The game is very
combat centered, but the setting of Venice is very well treated.
The title is Latin, meaning "Dark Venice".
Vento Nero
Agostino Carocci
1987
Giochi magazine #5
An Italian-language humorous one-shot RPG. It is a short adventure
with a very simple set of rules, set on a Sicilian island (Filicudi)
during a nuclear disaster. It was published in issue #5
of the first year of Giochi Magazine (1987). The title
tranlates as "Black Wind".
Venus 2141
Tony Pace
2009
Soyuz Arts
A science fiction tabletop roleplaying game set in the year 2141, where
the solar system has been partly colonized. Venus is a colony of nearly
500 million including many Canadians and Russians who are fleeing global
cooling on Earth. The people live on bio-engineered "rafts" that float
50km above the surface, supported by various other biotechnology. Mars
is engaged in a war of independence, and the Venus colony supports Earth
with an economy based on deuterium extraction, low-cost manufacturing,
and biotechnology designs. It uses a dice pool system with broad rules
for goals and conflicts. Characters have a three-tier skill tree
of Field, Focus, and Specialty. For example, a character might have the
Field of Coordination, Focus of Piloting, and Specialty of Boat.
Resolution uses a dice pool system, rolling two d6s for every skill
that is primary to the task (i.e. 2 for Field through 6 for Specialty).
Every 4-6 is a success, with sixes open-ending. The GM has limited
pools of dice - the Scene Pool and Session Pool - for use in conflicts.
Successes in conflict are eventually used to buy goals - either from a
set of defined goals for the Field, or negotiated for the conflict.
Character creation is by picking six Lifestyles - each of which defines
a set of Skills, Gear and Contacts - followed by six free skill picks.
Vermine
Alexandre Amirà
Remi Barbarin
Julien Blondel
Arnaud Cuidet
Miroslav Dragan
Philippe Fenot
Johan Scipion
Pascal Bernard
Michaël Croitoriu
Loïc Portnoë
Léonidas Vesperini
Gaylord Desurmont
Gr´gory Privat
2004
7ème Cercle
A French-language post-apocalyptic RPG, set in Europe of 2037 after
three decades of deteriorating chaos rather than a single cataclysmic
event. Humanity has fallen and vermin have taken over. It uses an
original system with dice-pool mechanics and limited point-bought
character creation.
Vice Squad: Eighties Police Adventures
Mark Bruno
2003
Politically Incorrect Games
48
A modern-day police action mini-RPG, published as a 48-page electronic
download and part of the "genreDiversion" series of one-shot,
setting-lite games. It is in the genre of 1980's TV cop and
action shows such as "Miami Vice" and "The A-Team". Character
creation is limited point-based and includes a selection of
cliches -- a player can use a selected cliche to gain an advantage
in play. Action resolution is roll under Attribute + Skill on 2d6.
Victoria: A Roleplaying Game of Action and Intrigue in Victorian England
Daniel Hodges
2011
Hazard Gaming
219
A historical RPG set in Victorian era England, focusing on suspense,
action, and intrigue - including certain supernatural elements.
It uses an original system that is based on the old English dice
game "hazard" for resolution. The player rolls 2d6, where each
skill has a range in the for success such as 6-8 or 5-9 (called
their "main"). The main can be modified by spending plot points.
Victoriana: A role-playing game of Vile Villainy & Glorious Adventure
John Tuckey
Scott Rhymer
Richard Nunn
2003
Heresy Gaming
296
An urban fantasy RPG, set in an alternate 1867 with magic, dwarves,
eldren (elves), halfings, gnomes, beastmen, and ogres. In addition
to the added fantasy elements, it combines together a range of
historical events from 1838 to 1898 for its recent history. Religion
is dominated by the Aluminat Church, which substitutes for Christianity.
It uses a variant of the <a href="GAME#fuzion">Fuzion</a>
system. Character creation is limited point-based after picking
a class (Proletariat, Bourgeois, or Gentry) and a race. Lower
classes are given more attribute points to balance their lack of
money and influence.
Victorian Adventure
Stephen Smith
1983
Kestrel Design / SKS Distribution
2nd
1985
A historical mystery/adventure RPG set in 19th century England,
using a simple system.
Viking
Mads Lunau Madsen
Troels Christian Jacobsen
Malik Hyltoft
1990
Bogfabrikken Fakta
A Danish-language historical RPG about the daily lives of Sandinavian
vikings in 800 A.D. It concentrates on historical detail and has
no fantasy or mythological elements. There are optional rules for
folk magic, including using runes for prediction and herbal
concoctions. There are two adventures published: "Glemt af Valhal"
(Forgotten by Valhalla) and "Rejsen til Nordhavet" (The Journey to
the North Sea).
Viking
Fabian Fridholm
Carl Johan Strôm
Marco Behrmann
Mattias Svendsen
1994
Neogames AB
A Swedish-language historical/fantasy RPG. It uses a skill-based
system with no classes or levels, using mainly d6's.
Vikings & Valkyrs
Laurence Gillespie
1985
self-published
A game based on the Icelandic Eddas, which uses a class-based system
with six stats rolled on 3d6, similar to
<a href="GAME#advanceddungeonsanddragons">AD&D</a>.
However, there is an original skill system and magic system.
According to the back cover, the designer had done "eight years
of graduate level research of Old Icelandic sources".
Volume I was "Character Classes, Skills, Magic"; Volume II was
"Combat, Runes, Songs of Power". An advertisement suggested that
a third volume was coming soon, to be called
"Monsters and Treasures of Middle Earth" -- but it is not clear
whether this was ever published.
Villians and Vigilantes
Jeff Dee
Jack Herman
1979
FGU
2nd
1982
A generic superhero RPG. It uses a simple d20-based system (roll
low) with random-roll character creation. The 3rd edition is
retitled <a href="GAME#livinglegends">Living Legends</a>
and is being published by
<a href="COMPANY#unigames">Unigames</a>.
Violence: The Roleplaying Game of Egregious and Repulsive Bloodshed
"Designer X"
1999
Hogshead Games
A "new style" RPG from Hogshead, at 24 pages. A parody of
AD&D and other games, with tables for "random tenement
generation" and "wandering victim treasure types".
Vox
Michael Fiegel
2009
Aethereal Forge
A surreal RPG with multiple settings, where each player plays both
a character with voices in his or her head, and the voice(s) in
another PC's head. It uses the PDQ2 game engine, designed by
Chad Underkoffler. The core book includes four setting seeds:
"Facility," a distant future sci-fi horror setting; "Oversight,"
a modern-day political conspiracy setting; "Currents," a 1920s
Lovecraftian mad science setting; and "Reckoning," an alternate
Victorian historical mystery setting.
VP: Via Prudensia
Gimle Larsen
Ask Agger
1994
Modtryk
A Danish-language universal RPG system with no specific setting. It
is a 128-page A4-size book with a color cover. The rules are similar
to GURPS and focused on combat. There is only a single edition and
no supplements, but it has had some popularity within Denmark.
Warcraft: The Roleplaying Game
Deird're Brooks
Andrew Bates
2003
Sword and Sorcery Studios
248
2nd
Mike Johnstone
Andrew Bates
Luke Johnson
2005
Sword and Sorcery Studios
400
A fantasy roleplaying game based on the real-time strategy and
massively multiplayer online computer games from Blizzard Entertainment.
It is set in war-torn world, Azeroth, where humans, dwarves, high elves,
night elves, goblins, orcs, and tauren struggle with the demonic
Burning Legion and undead Scourge. It uses a variant of 3rd edition
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a>,
aka the D20 System. The first edition was officially a campaign
setting for D&D, which included new core classes as well
as 18 prestige classes. The second edition was renamed
<a href="GAME#worldofwarcraft">
World of Warcraft: The Roleplaying Game</a>, and was a
standalone game using the same system. The second edition also
changes some prestige classes to core classes, and renamed the
core abilities to Strength, Stamina, Agility, Intellect, Spirit,
and Charisma.
Wares Blades
unknown
unknown
unknown
A Japanese-language science fantasy RPG, featuring magical mecha
robots.
Warhammer 40,000: Dark Heresy
Owen Barnes
Kate Flack
Mike Mason
2008
Black Industries
398
A science fantasy role-playing game based on the Warhammer 40,000
miniatures games, set in the 41st millenium where humanity is organized
under the Imperium - a reactionary feudal state of millions of worlds,
whose leader the Emperor is worshipped as a living god. The players
are acolytes of the Inquisition fighting perceived enemies of mankind
including aliens, mutants, and heretics. It uses a variant of the
<a href="GAME#warhammerfantasy">Warhammer Fantasy RPG</a>
system. There are eight career paths: Adept, Arbitrator, Assassin,
Cleric, Guardsman, Imperial Psyker, Scum, and Tech-Priest.
Advancement for characters is via a pre-defined career path
called ranks. As the character advances they may be presented
with some career rank choices but these are almost chosen
beforehand by the character's previous skill and talent choices,
and how the player has played the character.
Warhammer 40,000: Deathwatch
Ross Watson
2010
Fantasy Flight Games
400
A science fantasy role-playing game based on the Warhammer 40,000
miniatures games, set in the 41st millenium where humanity is organized
under the Imperium - a reactionary feudal state of millions of worlds,
whose leader the Emperor is worshipped as a living god. The players are
Space Marines, member of the militant arm of the Inquisition that
opposes alien influences, known as Inquisitorial Ordo Xenos.
It uses a variant of the
<a href="GAME#warhammerfantasy">Warhammer Fantasy RPG</a>
system. Character creation has higher attribute values, and characters
pick one of six chapters of the marines: The Black Templars, The Blood Angels,
the Dark Angels, the Space Wolves, the Storm Wardens and the Ultramarines.
This game adds a mechanic for Demeanors, traits that may be invoked
once per story to modify a roll. Each PC has one Demeanor from their
chapter and one that is personal.
Warhammer 40,000: Rogue Trader
Rick Priestly
1987
Games Workshop
Owen Barnes
Alan Bligh
John French
Andy Hoare
Tim Huckelbery
Michael Hurley
John Ivicek
Reason
Sam Stewart
2009
Fantasy Flight Games
The original Rogue Trader is a set of rules for science fiction wargaming,
a precursor to the popular miniatures game Warhammer 40,000 and related to
the <a href="GAME#warhammerfantasy">Warhammer Fantasy RPG</a>
system. The "rogue traders" of the title are human adventurers with a
special charter from the Emperor. A new game based on
<a href="GAME#warhammerfantasy">Warhammer Fantasy RPG</a>
was released by Fantasy Flight as part of a trilogy of role-playing
games set in the Warhammer 40,000 universe.
Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay
Richard Halliwell
Rick Priestly
Graeme David
Jim Bambra
Phil Gallagher
1986
Games Workshop
Revised
1995
Hogshead Games
366
2nd
2005
Black Industries
366
A dark fantasy game, set on an original fantasy world called simply
the "Old World". It closely resembles renaissance Europe, with the
addition of dwarves, elves, orcs, trolls, and other fantasy creatures.
There is a mighty empire ruled by emperor Karl Franz, which is
threatened by Chaos creatures and Dark Gods from the North
threaten civilization. The setting is extremely dark with bits
of black humor: most sides are decadent, corrupt, evil, or all three.
It uses a simple percentile system. Skills are simple binary,
resolution is by rolling percentile dice under your attribute.
Character creation is class-based, with level-based advancement.
The combat system is particularly dangerous to the PC's (with the
possible exception of dwarves). After 1989, the first edition was
turned over to an independent division of Games Workshop called
Flame Publications, which over three years produced a new set of
supplements. The second edition was taken over by Fantasy Flight
Games in 2008, after the Black Industries imprint of Games Workshop
was shut down.
Warlock: Dark Spiral
Brandon Blackmoor
Susan Blackmoor
Chris Nasipak
David Bolack
Nathan Bordsley
R. Sean Borgstrom
1998
Black Gate Publishing
A modern magic RPG set in 2015, where warlocks have hidden
themselves since the time of the Inquisition, and demons lurk in
a nearby dimension. The system uses simple roll under
attribute+skill on 1d10 resolution, although it also has notes on
diceless play. Combat includes many options and modifiers.
Character creation uses limited point-buy, similar to the
"Storyteller" system used by White Wolf. The system concentrates
(obviously) on the magic, which uses spontaneous spells based on
13 categories of magical skill.
War Machine: The Quasi-Historical Retro Sci Fi Role-Playing Game
Jason Knizley
2000
Happy Nebula Adventure Publishing
An alternate history war genre RPG, set in 1942 a world where Nazi
Germany gained access to horrific weapons based on a medieval codex
found in 1937, and deciphered by scientists working for the SS in 1939.
By 1942, London is destroyed, and most of Europe is occupied by Axis
troops.
Warp 9
David Sicé
1994
Warp 9
A French-language unofficial RPG adaptation of the television
series Star Trek:The Next Geneation. It was sold as a fanzine,
with each issue adding rules to the game.
WarpWorld
Greg Porter
1991
BTRC
192
A post-apocalyptic science fantasy RPG set in 2312 -- 300 years
after World War III. The nuclear fires somehow opened up a
gateway which allowed the "Old Gods" to return and mythic
creatures to roam. It uses a variant of the
<a href="GAME#timelords">Timelords</a> system.
Warrior, Rogue and Mage
Michael Wolf
2010
Stargazer Games
40
A simple, lightweight roleplaying game where characters have three attributes: Warrior, Rogue, and Mage.
Action resolution is by comparing difficulty to 1d6 + attribute, plus 2 if there is an applicable skill.
It also includes opposed check and modifiers along with Fate points. There is a magic system included.
Wars: The Roleplaying Game
Ian Lizard Harac
Greg Lynch
2005
Mongoose Publishing
304
A science fiction RPG based on the trading card game from Decipher, Inc.
It is set in the 24th century, when humanity is divided into
Earthers, the Gongen (the largely Asian population of Mars), and the
"Mavericks" inhabiting the moons of Jupiter. Recently, the Mumon Rift
opened near the asteroid belt, and a mysterious and conquering race
known as the Shi pulled their entire planet through, while being
pursued by a monstrous four-legged race called the Quay. This uses
a variant of 3rd edition
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a>,
aka the D20 System.
Wastelands
Stefan Burstrom
Anders Blixt
Hakan Jonsson
Hans Sundqvist
1990
Lancelot Games
"No Law, No Rules, Only Chaos" A Swedish-language post-apocalyptic
RPG with a light-hearted, action-based tone. It is set 30 years
after a devastating invasion by aliens from outer space. The
system is a simplified version of the <a href="GAME#khelataar">
Khelataar</a> system.
Waste World
Bill King
1997
Manticore Productions
288
A far-future post-apocalyptic RPG, set on a planet ravaged by
ten millennia of total war, where five gigantic city-states
("metrozones") are struggling over dwindling supplies of Drakonium,
the ultimate energy source. The warfare has spawned mutation-causing
weapons, bio-engineered plagues, robots turned amok by a computer
virus, and a Galactic interdict trapping unpleasant aliens on the
planet. Resolution is a simple d20+stat+skill+modifiers, where
an 11+ succeeds. A roll of 1 fumbles, while 20 is roll again.
Character creation is open point-bought. There are four
attributes (Strength, Dexterity, Intelligence, and Psyche) rated
-3 to +3, and skills rated 0 to 9 (divided into Easy, Normal,
and Hard). Combat bases damage on the degree of success, with
a possible multiplier and/or additive bonus. It also has hit
location and critical hits. cf. Mark Hughes'
<a href="http://kuoi.asui.uidaho.edu/~kamikaze/WasteWorld/">
Waste World resources</a>.
The Way
1st "Vägen"
Johan Anglemark
1993
Västerås Stift
Quo Vadis?
1995
1st "The Way" [English]
1997
Ansgar
1998
A Swedish-language Christian educational RPG, developed for church
youth groups. It is Christian but non-denominational, intended to
let the players deal with complex moral problems and serves as a
basis for teaching a Christian way of life. Each part includes
built-in scenarios. Part I ("Vagen") is a fantasy setting.
Part II ("Quo Vadis?") is set in the early Roman times of the
Christian church. Part III ("Ansgar") is based around missionaries
to 9th century Sweden. In the base rules there are three races
(Elf, Human, Dwarf) and three classes (Wizard, Warrior, Scout).
The player rolls 2d6+6 for six characteristics (Strength, Intelligence,
Attentiveness, Agility, Endurance, Looks). There are 18 skills
split among the classes, where each skill has a base chance equal
to its key characteristic. Resolution is by rolling 3d6 under
skill value. cf. http://www.rollspel.com/engelsk/theway.htm
Wayfarer Infinity
Timothy S. Till
1998
Rune's Law
A science fantasy RPG, set in a far-flung space empire with a
huge variety of races and very common psionics (or "Genetic
Abilities"). The system is rather chart intensive.
Wayfarers
J. Swill
G. Vrill
2008
Ye Olde Gaming Companye
A fantasy role-playing game in the genre of "old school"
Dungeons & Dragons. The core book includes details on the
fantasy world of Twylos. Character creation is limited
point-bought; modified by race (dwarf, elf, half-elf, hobgobling,
half-orc, human, or orc); plus choice of disciplines and
proficiencies (advantages and skills).
Weapons and Warriors
Robert Alan Beatty
1981
self-published
A small-press fantasy RPG, published as a 66 pages long
single-sided booklet with no table of contents or index.
It uses a percentile system with other dice used for certain
effects. The system has character classes of Fighter, Mage,
Psychic, and Shape-changer -- plus the "Thief" class which has
a skill-based subsystem. It suggests that other skill-based
classes can use Thief as a template. There is a brief sample
campaign setting (6 pages).
Weapons of the Gods
Rebecca Sean Borgstrom
Brad Elliott
2005
EOS Press
384
A wuxia martial arts RPG, based on the comic book series by
Tony Wong. This is set in China in a fictional mythic age, with
extensive background on the history and culture. It uses a dice pool
system where you roll as many d10s as your skill rating (0 to 5)
and look for matches, where each matching die adds +10 to the
number shown. So rolling two 7s would be 27, and three 4s would
be 34. There are 25 general skills grouped into 5 attributes:
Might, Speed, Presence, Genius and Wu Wei (or "harmony with the world").
The game includes a system for chi powers and secret arts.
Webs Basic Gaming System
Keith Bailey
1991
Web Games
2nd
1993
A small-press universal RPG system. It uses a percentile skill-based
system (roll under skill). Character creation is by random-roll
attributes (1d20 for each of the seven attributes) with point-bought
skills and advantages. There are world-dependent "archetypes" which
give a package of skills. There were two genre supplements published:
"Web of Horrors" and "Web of Stars".
Weird War II: Blood on the Rhine
Shane Lacy Hensley
John R. Hopler
2001
Pinnacle Entertainment Group
A modern-day magic RPG set in an alternate history period of
World War II, in which runic magic, miracles, werewolves, and
haunted tanks play a role. It uses the D20 System from 3rd edition
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a>.
Complete rules are not provided: basic rules for character creation,
combat, and other systems refer to the D&D Players Handbook.
Weird War Two: Crusade for Europe
Larry Snider
Matt Maaske
1999
Games What Games
A modern-day magic RPG set in an alternate historical period of WWII
where the rumors of Nazi occult practices prove true as they
unleash the old ways of magic into a world of technological warfare.
(Note that this is unrelated to the "Weird War II" sourcebook
from Pinnacle Games for the D20 System released in 2001.)
Werewolf: The Apocalypse
Mark Rein•Hagen
1992
White Wolf
2nd
1994
A modern horror/action game, where PCs are werewolves that are
dedicated to defending the Earth and the environment against evil
beings which are distorting the cosmic balance. It uses a
variant of the "Storyteller" system.
Werewolf: The Wild West
Justin Achilli
Ethan Skemp
1997
White Wolf
A companion games to <a href="GAME#werewolf">Werewolf</a> set
in the old west. The rules are almost identical to the original. New
features besides the old west background are the Storm Umbra (a
spirit disrupting the Umbra in this time period).
Western
Anders Gillbring
Mikael Hermansson
Anders Thyberg
1989
Lancelot
2nd
1989
3rd
1998
Rävspel
A Swedish-language RPG set in the American wild west, with
has detailed background and complex rules. It used a skill-based
system with rules for skill improvement and maintenance.
There are at least 5 adventures published for it.
Western City
1st (German)
Jörg Dünne
2009
Vagrant Workshop
1st (English)
Jörg Dünne
2009
Vagrant Workshop
A historical GMless RPG set in the American Wild West. Players each
create a PC for themselves and two NPCs (a friend and a foe) that
another player may play. Character creation includes by choosing a
profession with top fixed rank, and five player-defined skills
with a lower rank, along with three attributes (Body, Mind, and
Charisma). Resolution works by a bidding mechanic used when two
players differ on how to resolve a scene. The winner gets to control
the scene, but the chips in the pot are passed out to all the other
players.
WHAP Pulp Adventure System
Tom K. Loney
2008
Peryton Publishing
Deluxe
Tom K. Loney
2009
Peryton Publishing
A pulp action game, the title an acronym for "Wildly Heroic Action Pulp",
using the minimalist TAG (Tom's Adventure Gaming) system. Resolution
uses 2d6 against a target number of difficulty minus attribute.
Character creation includes eight character classes including
Scrapper, Gumshoe, Flatfoot, Medium, Gimmick, and Professor.
W.H.A.T.? Customizable RPG
Ryan Johnson
1997
Guild of Blades
A universal mini-RPG (16 pages). The system uses a simple stat
+ 1d6 roll vs difficulty (open-ending on rolls of 6). Combat
includes initiative and dodge mechanics. There are also rules
for spell casting, weapon mastery, magical weapon smithing, and
immortal characters.
What Price Glory?!
John Dankert
Jim Lauffenburger
1978
self-published
A medieval fantasy RPG similar to <a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">
D&D</a>, using a hex-grid position-based combat system and a
spell-point magic system.
Wheel of Time Roleplaying Game
Charles Ryan
Steven Long
Christian Moore
Owen K.C. Stephens
2001
Wizards of the Coast
A fantasy RPG set in the world of Robert Jordan's fantasy novel
series. The system is derived from 3rd edition
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">Dungeons &
Dragons</a>. Compared to that, it eliminates alignments
and replaces the core classes with new ones. It also adds
"Backgrounds" as options which modify character creation, and
adds a new magic system with variable-level spells.
When Worlds Collide
John Fountain
Alistair Dandy
2010
When Worlds Collide, Ltd
A multi-versal RPG system designed to cover traditional role-playing
genres including fantasy, western, medieval, horror, and cyberpunk.
It is set in a background where the player characters can shift between
realities and gain powers at the cost of side effects to their own
bodies. The system called the Tri Hexahedral Engine or T.H.E. System,
using 3d6 for most rolls. Resolution is by rolling 3d6, adding attribute
and skill modifiers, and comparing the total to a difficulty level
(with the standard being 10). Character creation is point-based,
with a chosen occupation that gives a bonus to broad skill groups,
such as academic and technological. Character have 7 attributes,
ranging from -3 to +5, along with detailed skills and special
abilities. It also includes rules for the Rifts by which characters
move between dimensions and gain powers.
While the World Ends: A story game about a future on the brink of change
1st (Swedish)
Wilhelm Person
2008
self-published
1st (English)
Wilhelm Person
2009
self-published
A short story game for 3-4 players, published in Swedish and English -
with the original Swedish title "Medan Världen går under".
Whispering Vault
Mike Nystul
1993
Pariah Press
2nd
1994
Pariah Press
Ronin
A modern-day horror game where each PC is a unique horror from
another dimension, fighting even more horrible things from
beyond. The imagery is very strong in this.
Whog Shrog
Laurent Trémel
Eric Bouchaud
Nicolas Théry
1988
Siroz
A French-language sci-fi mecha RPG, with powered-armor warriors
of devastating power. It uses a variant of the
<a href="GAME#universom">Universom</a> system.
Wiedźmin, gra wyobraźni
Tomek Kreczmar
Michal Marszalik
Maciej Nowak-Kreyer
Michal Studniarek
2001
Wydawnictwo MAG
A Polish-language fantasy RPG, based on novels by Andrzej Sapkowski.
The title translates as "Hexer, the imaginary role playing".
It uses a complex skill-based rules set.
Wilderness of Mirrors
John Wick
2006
Wicked Dead Brewing Company
A modern espionage RPG, which concentrates on bringing to life the
planning of espionage operations.
Wildside Gaming System
Leigh Ronald Grossman
2005
Wildside Press
272
A generic role-playing system, focused on medieval fantasy. It uses
a detailed skill-based mechanics, with hundreds of skills. Character
creation is random-roll attributes and limited point-bought skills,
with a number of skill points equal to the Intelligence attribute.
Costs are listed for each skill, with cases of discounts for a high
controlling attribute or related skill. Advancement is per skill
based on use and training. The basic rules include a magic system
with a wide range of spells among eighteen types of magic
(Conjuration, Weather, Generation, Fire, Earth, Air, Water, Emotion,
Healing, Illusion, Motion, Necromancy, Summoning, Transmutation,
Animal, Vegetable, and Mineral).
Wild Talents: Superhero Roleplaying in a World Gone Mad
Greg Stolze
Dennis Detwiller
2006
Arc Dream Publishing
A gritty superhero roleplaying game, the sequel to the previous game
<a href="GAME#godlike">Godlike</a>: Superhero Roleplaying
in a World on Fire, 1936-1946. After the war, even more powerful
Talents appeared. This is a more general superhero game, though
tending towards cinematically gritty inspired by comics like
"Top 10" and "Watchmen". The rules use Greg Stolze's "One-Roll Engine."
Actions are resolved by rolling d10's equal to stat plus skill.
The number of matches (i.e. d10's with the same value) indicate
speed of success, while the number matched indicates quality of
success.
Wild West
Anthony P. LeBoutillier
Gerald D. Seypura
1981
FGU
An old west RPG. The detailed system uses a skill-based system
with a universal probability chart, resolving using d20s and d6s
only. Combat includes detailed facing rules and individual stats
for horses. The 45 skills are cross-referenced to indicate where
they add to each other.
Witchcraft
C.J. Carrella
1996
Myrmidon
2nd
1999
Eden Studios
A game of modern-day magic, drawing on real-world beliefs of
Wicca and other groups. The characters are practitioners of
magic secretly fighting monsters and conspiracies in our world.
Witch Girls Adventures: The Drama Diaries Game
Malcolm Harris
2009
self-published
250
A modern fantasy RPG for beginners, based on the independent
comic of the same name. The PCs are 11 to 12 year old witches
attending a School of Magic. Character creation is by choosing
a clique, distributing a set of die values based on clique
among the six attributes (Body, Mind, Senses, Will, Social, and
Magic), and spending from two point pools (Mundane and Magic)
on skills. It uses a step-die system, rolling a die type for
attribute and adding the skill value versus difficulty.
cf. http://www.witchgirlsadventures.com/
Witch Hunt
Paul D. Baader
Roger Buckelew
1983
Statcom Simulations, Inc.
46
A historical/horror RPG set in Salem, Massachusetts in 1692.
Player characters are either witches with actual magic, or lawful
magistrates trying to hunt them down and prosecute them.
It includes detailed notes on the setting: including daily lives
of the Puritan Colonists, maps of typicial buildings, accusation process,
and magistrate duties and procedures. It uses a simple percentile
system. Character creation includes percentile random-roll of ten
attributes (five physical and five mental), followed by 30 points to
distribute among them, and then rolls for Age, Marital Status, Children,
Height, Weight, Social Status, Home Town, and Occupation. Advancement
is by level and consist of adds to attributes, depending on whether
the character is a Witch or a Magistrate. Witches get most of their
experience for remaining free and casting spells, while Magistrates
get experience mainly from disrupting magic rituals, making accusations,
and executing witches. There is a detailed accusation and trial process,
as well as a magic system for witches.
Witch Hunter: the Invisible World
Scott Charlton
Rucht Lilavivat
Henry Lopez
M. Sean Molley
Brian Schoner
Robert J. Schwalb
Robert Vaughn
2007
Paradigm Concepts
256
A role-playing game in the genre of "swashbuckling horror", set in a
the 1690s of a parallel Europe and America. In the New World, Aztecs
and Incas are still around -- resisting the Spanish with magic.
The PCs are among the few who by providence can deal with the
invisible world of the supernatural. There are a variety of factions
among these, though all signed an Accord following the London fire
of 1666, which had resulted from infighting. It uses a dice pool
system similar to White Wolf's Storyteller system from
<a href="GAME#worldofdarkness">World of Darkness</a>.
Roll a number of d10s equal to attribute plus skill, where each
result of 7 or higher is a success. Character creation is limited
point-based. There are nine attributes divided into physical, mental,
and spiritual. All begin at 2 and you have a set of points to increase
them.
With Extreme Prejudice
Pre-release
Christopher Dorn
Matthew D. Grau
Lance P. Johnstone
1995
Apex Publications Inc
32
A sci-fi RPG by Apex Publishing. The full version was never published,
but several hundred copies of a pre-release were sold at GenCon
which included the battle rules but not full role-playing material.
It was illustrated by C. Brent Ferguson, edited by Peter Mork.
It was set in a futuristic interstellar setting with humans and
several alien races. The prerelease version uses a dice pools system
where you add together base dice for the weapon and the character's
ability in that weapon class. Die types range from d3 to d12.
With Great Power...
Preview/Interim
Michael S. Miller
2004
Incarnadine Press
136 comic-book-sized pages
Full
2005
A superhero RPG specifically about the dramatic side of Silver Age
comics, only incidentally about superpowers. The system is designed
so that as you take losses you gain advantages against the GM's
villains, so all stories involve getting beaten for the first two
acts. Resolution uses a hand of playing cards rather than dice.
There is a strong emphasis on story advice and examples of play for
how to generate an interesting storyline. Character creation is done
by filling in six Aspects, namely Origin, Powers, Convictions (i.e.
deep-set beliefs), Relationships, Identity (i.e. non-superhero secret
identity), and any Duties you might have to others.
Wizards
Ralph Bakshi
Ken Whitman
Jeff Zitomer
Brett Maddox
1992
Whit Productions
136
An RPG set in the fantasy world of Ralph Bakshi's animated
movie "Wizards" (1977), where magical faeries fight against
technology-wielding mutants led by the evil wizard Blackwolf. It
uses a simple skill-based system (roll under skill on d20), with
point-bought character creation, dominated by choice of race.
Wizard's Realm
Niels Erickson
C. Polite
W.G. Murphy
1981
Mystic Swamp
2nd
1983
A medieval fantasy RPG using a simple system. Character creation
is class-based and advancement is level-based.
Wizard's World
David Silvera
Douglas S. Krull
1983
Fantasy Worlds Unlimited
80
A fantasy genre RPG, subtitled "A Complete Fantasy Role-playing game
For Imaginitive Players Of All Ages". It is set in an original
fantasy world with a central city known as "Mousehole". The
game as a whole is very similar to
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">Dungeons & Dragons</a>,
particularly in the experience tables and magic lists was copied
almost verbatim. The rules are fairly simple, with a few innovations,
such as spell points for regulating wizard's spell memorization.
Wladcy losu
Krzysztof Piskorski
2003
Portal
A Polish-language fantasy RPG, whose title translates as
"Masters of fate". It is a new style game where players become gods
of light and darkness and are trying to manipulate with a live of
a single ordinary person. The goal is to win with another player.
Woodland Warriors
Simon Washbourne
2011
Beyond Belief Games
A fantasy RPG about anthropomorphic animals in the genre of the
Redwall novels by Brian Jacque. The player character races include
mice, moles, hedgehogs, squirrels and badgers - collectively known
as the Kind. The default setting is that the player characters are
residents of Alder Vale, home of Stonewell Abbey and Murkenhill Fort.
They defend their home against pillaging rats and weasels as well as
various solitary predators. The game uses a variant of the system from
<a href="GAME#swordsandwizardry">Swords & Wizardry</a>
tailored to the genre. The classes include friar, scout and wizard -
and multiclassing is supported. The basic game includes 40 monsters
and an introductory adventure by David Bezio entitled "Shadow's Roost".
Woof, Meow
Ulrico Font
John Willford
1988
Game Systems, Inc.
A fantasy RPG about playing cats and dogs with magical powers.
It uses an original system, where resolution is by rolling less
than skill on the total of a number of d6s based on difficulty
(from 1d6 for Very Easy to 5d6 for Very Hard). Character creation
starts with choice of cat or dog, and is limited point-based.
There are 6 attributes (Strength, Intelligence, Agility, Size, Cute
and Health) and 19 skills. Each skill has a default value of a single
attribute, and when bought starts at the sum of two attributes, and
can be raised further with more points. Skill points can also be spent
on spells, and can be modified by taking Advantages (including Keen Nose,
Flea Collar, or Toughcoat) or Problems (including Age, Bad Sight,
Declawed, Fleas, or Limper). Cats have innate abilities to reduce
falling damage ("land on their feet"), an option for nine lives,
an option for "patron" (distinct from owner). Dogs have innate
abilities to heal faster ("licking their wounds"), to summon their
owners, to sense bad intentions in humans, and one day per month
have a +1 to rolls ("Every Dog Has His Day"). There are 48 spells
for cats and 46 for dogs - some only available if simpler prerequisites
are taken (i.e. Stay Put requires Stay, and Lockjaw requires Stay Put).
The basic game includes stats for NPC animals including Mice, Rats,
Horses, Sheep, Pigs, Squirrels, Birds and Rabbits. It also includes
a six-page sample adventure.
Wordplay: The Big Five
Graham Spearing
2009
D101 Games
232
A narrative roleplaying game with four mini-settings, known as themes -
including "The Cold Crusade" by Mark Galeotti; "The Empire of Gatan"
by Newt Newport with Graham Spearing; "Infinite War" by Newt Newport;
and "Keep Portland Weird" by Charles Green. Character creation uses
free-form traits assigned to categories Body, Mind, or Soul. The player
assigns two traits at 6d, five at 5d, and nine at 4d; as well as defining
a long-term goal, short-term goal, and shared group goal. Resolution
uses a dice pool mechanic, rolling d6s equal to a trait appropriate to
the challenge, where every 4 or 5 is one success, and 6 is two successes.
There are bonus dice of standard 1d per 3 trait points from assisting
characters, and bonus dice if the character invokes a Goal.
World Action and Adventure
Gregory J. Kinney
1985
M.S. Kinney Corporation
A universal "realistic" RPG, which attempts factual information
of everything on Earth: including geography, occupations,
history, and animals.
The World of Aden
Shane Lacy Hensley
1995
West End Games
A dark fantasy RPG setting for the <a href="GAME#masterbook">
MasterBook</a> system: the world of the computer game "Aden"
from SSI. The world features thunder trains and monstrous
"nocturnals".
The World of Barador RPG
Dana Jorgensen
1995
Alternate Realities Publications
2nd
1998
A small-press fantasy RPG set on an original world.
The World of Bloodshadows
Greg Farshtey
Ed Stark
1994
West End Games
2nd
Nikola Vrtis
2004
West End Games
An urban fantasy RPG setting originally released as a boxed set including
the setting book and the <a href="GAME#masterbook">MasterBook</a>
system core book. The second edition was released as a supplement for
the <a href="GAME#d6">D6 System</a>. It is set in a fantasy
world, Marl, reminiscent of U.S. 1940s film noir with the addition of
monsters and magic. Within Marl, there are well-defended cities surrounded
by large tracts of wilderness where monsters roam.
The World of Darkness
Bill Bridges
Rick Chillot
Ken Cliffe
Mike Lee
2004
White Wolf
A modern horror RPG, the successor to a number of previous games
including
<a href="GAME#vampirethemasquerade">
Vampire: The Masquerade</a>,
<a href="GAME#werewolftheapocalypse">
Werewolf: The Apocalypse</a>,
<a href="GAME#magetheascension">
Mage: The Ascension</a>, and other games. This is something
of a revised edition, with the specific games appearing as world
modules for this core rulebook. It uses a dice pool system,
revised to roll a number of d10s based on attribute + skill +
modifiers. Each result of 8-10 is a success, with a 10 giving
an additional roll. Character creation is limited point-based,
with a changed set of attributes and skills. It has a number of
supplements that form semi-independent game lines within the same
setting - Vampire: The Requiem (2004), Werewolf: The Forsaken (2005),
Mage: The Awakening (2005), Promethean: The Created (2006),
Changeling: The Lost (2007), Hunter: The Vigil (2008), and
Geist: The Sin-Eaters (2009).
The World of Esaene
Brant Guillory
1999
BaDGe Publications
A fantasy RPG, set in an original world populated by dwarves, elves,
and other fantasy races. The basic game includes a campaign background
in the world. The system resolves actions using stat + 2d6 vs
difficulty or opposed roll, using special stats in combat such as
(weapon combat value + strength + level)/3.
Character creation us random-roll attributes (1d6+3 for the three
attributes: Strength, Skill and Intelligence. There is also a
magic system included based on bending the six laws of physics:
gravity, spirit, thought, light, noise, and magic.
The World of Indiana Jones
Brian Sean Perry
Greg Farshtey
1994
West End Games
A pulp-action RPG based on the movies, using the
<a href="GAME#masterbook">MasterBook</a> system.
The World of Necroscope
Ed Bolme
1995
West End Games
A modern occult RPG, based on the popular series of novels by
Brian Lumley. Psionic secret agents ("ESPers"), communications
from beyond the grave ("necroscopy"), and deadly vampires
("Wamphyri") are just a small part of the Necroscope universe.
It uses the <a href="GAME#masterbook">MasterBook</a> system.
The World of Species
Teeuwynn Woodruff
Dennis Feldman
Greg Farshtey
1995
West End Games
A sci-fi RPG based on the alien-among-us movie, using the
<a href="GAME#masterbook">MasterBook</a> system.
World of Synnibarr
Raven McCracken
1991
Real Dream Inc.
2nd
1993
Wonderworld
A high-powered traditional fantasy game set in a hollow world --
actually a generation starship built by a god out of the planet Mars,
following an eons-long dark ages of plagues and wars. The worldship
has both an exterior and interior surface complete with vegetation,
and is broken up into regions where magic doesn't work and regions
where technology doesn't work. The system uses random-roll and
class-based character creation. There are 50 character classes
including Psielf, Bio-Syntha Cyborg, Flymen, Armored Mantises,
Amazons, Alchemists, and more. Advancement is level-based, with all
classes going up to 600th level. Characters can have "tenths", where
each tenth reduces damage by 1/10 (i.e. two tenths means the character
takes 1/100 damage).
The World of Tank Girl
Bill Olmesdahl
Brian Schomburg
Greg Farshtey
Ed Stark
1995
West End Games
A post-apocalyptic RPG based on the comic book (by Jamie Hewlett
and Alan Martin) and the 1995 MGM movie of the same name.
It is about a near future where a comet strike devastates the Earth.
In 2033, the only water left is under the control of an evil
megacorporation, The Department of Water and Power. There are
many oddities, including mutant kangaroos and gadgets like the
Dangerball and the Plasma-powered Flesh-Reversing Rifle.
It uses the
<a href="GAME#masterbook">MasterBook</a> system,
and was packaged with a copy of the core rule book.
World of Warcraft: The Roleplaying Game
2nd
Mike Johnstone
Andrew Bates
Luke Johnson
2005
Sword and Sorcery Studios
400
A fantasy roleplaying game based on the massively multiplayer
online computer game from Blizzard Entertainment. This is the
second edition, where the previous edition was a campaign setting
with the shorter title of
<a href="GAME#warcraft">Warcraft: The Roleplaying Game</a>.
This second edition is a standalone game, using a variant of 3rd edition
<a href="GAME#dungeonsanddragons">D&D</a>,
aka the D20 System.
Worlds Beyond
Frank S. Shewmake
Douglas
Laedtke
Lavette
Skilling
Warth
1990
Other World Games
A spacefaring sci-fi RPG. It uses a simple skill-based system.
Worlds of Wonder
Steve Perrin
Steve Henderson
Gordon Monson
Greg Stafford
Lynn Willis
1982
Chaosium
The earliest universal RPG, this used the Chaosium universal
system (<a href="GAME#basic">Basic Role-playing</a>) as a base and
provided three worldbooks: "Fantasy World", "Super World", and
"Future World". Character creation varies: all have random-roll
attributes. Superheroes have point-bought skills and powers.
F*W characters have career training (a la <a href="GAME#traveller">
Traveller</a>). M*W characters are have class-like templates
(warrior, rogue, sage, sorceror).
World-Tree
Bard Bloom
Victoria Borah Bloom
2001
Padwolf Publishing
A fantasy RPG set on an original world which is a giant
tree. The world-tree lies under a crystalline sun rolling on a
track in the sky. Its branches are fifty miles wide and
thousands long. The flat upper sides are the home of
civilization, while the sides of the branches are untamed
wilderness. The PC's are among 8 anthropomorphic animal
species: Cani (dogs), Herethroy (beetles), Orren (otters), and
Rassimel (racoons) -- along with the rarer Gormoror (bears),
Khtsoyis (flying octopi), Sleeth (panthers), and Zi Ri
(dragons).
World Wrestling Federation RPG
M. David Clark
1993
Whit Productions
A professional wrestling RPG, licensed from Titan Sports. At
its heart is a wrestling combat system including numerous
over-the-top maneuvers. Campaign play is supported by characters
advancing in standing from match to match.
Wraeththu: From Enchantment to Fulfillment
Storm Constantine
Gabriel Strange
Lydia Wood
2005
Immanion Press
A science fantasy RPG based on the novels by Storm Constantine.
It is set in the near future as humanity is in decline, ravaged by
insanity, conflict, disease and infertility. A new race -- the
Wraeththu -- mysteriously appeared in the ruins of northern cities.
They are beautiful and androgynous as well as stronger than humans
and psychically gifted. They can also transform humans into
creatures like themselves. It uses an original system, with a
ction resolution using 1d20. There is a weapon creation subsystem
combined with an emphasis on swordplay. The psychic/magic/psionic
rules use a freeform system reminiscent of Ars Magica.
Wraith: The Oblivion
Mark Rein•Hagen
Richard Dansky
Jennifer Hartshorn
Sam Chupp
1994
White Wolf
2nd
1996
A modern fantasy-horror RPG about ghosts ("wraiths") caught
between the world of their former lives and the fantasy-like
underworld ("Stygia"). Stygia (specifically the underworld of
Europe and North America) is a world embroiled in civil war
between the Hierarchy, Renegades, and Heretics. Individual
wraiths are held on by "fetters" (passions for things left
behind in the world of the living), while being tempted by their
"shadows" (evil halves of their souls). The interesting mechanic
is that each player has a PC <em>and</em> plays another
PC's shadow. <br>
The 2nd edition and later books downplayed somewhat the
introspective and fatalistic aspect, in favor of more
conventional fight against evil in the underworld.
Wushu: The Ancient Art of Action Role-playing
Daniel Bayn
2003
Bayn.org
An electronically-published martial arts action RPG. It uses a simple
dice-pool system based on player description. The player rolls 1d6
plus an additional die for each embellishment. Embellishments are
descriptive items that add flash and style to the described action.
Each roll that is less than the stat (rated 1 to 5) is a success.
Wu Xing: The Ninja Crusade
Eloy Lasanta
2010
Third Eye Games
221
An Asian-themed fantasy RPG based on animated works such as Naruto and
Avatar the Last Airbender. It is set in a large empire, where four years
ago the Emperor declared war on the ninja clans who were formerly allies.
The majority of ninja clans have banded together to form the Lotus
Coalition to try to survive, stave off, or defeat the Empire in this
latest war. It uses a version of the Dynamic Gaming System (DGS)
from <a href="GAME#apocalypsepreventioninc">
Apocalypse Prevention, Inc.</a> by the same author.
The core mechanic is 1d20 + Attribute + Skill vs. a Target Number of
10, 20, 30, or 40. Character creation is by picking a type (Ninja
or Ronin) and clan, as well as an Element and Passion - which determines
starting Chi and permanent Yin and Yang. There is limited point-buy
of attributes and skills, along with bonus points usable for Gifts,
and possibly more from taking Drawbacks.
Wyrd is Bond
Jason L. Blair
2004
Key 20 Publishing
A modern fantasy RPG, where the PCs are magic-using gang members
known as "slingers", with the magical power of their "Wyrd".
Magic has always existed in our world, though mostly hidden
because it has backed oppressed classes such as poor blacks
and Latinos. Magic has recently gained press and publicity
during the rise of rap and hip-hop, as the gang slingers became
popular and brought their knowledge of the streets and magic to
a broader audience. Character creation uses freeform Traits,
two positive and two negative, to indicate things your character
is good at or bad at. You are given a broad-range Skill to cover
things your character has proficiency in. You have at least one
Ally, one Enemy, one Lover, and one Rival. Action resolution is
based on 3d6, plus extra dice for traits. The player rolls and
keeps the highest three (for positive traits) or lowest three
(for negative traits). The dice are then assigned to three
categories: Order (how fast you execute, i.e. initiative),
Power (how effective you are at achieving your goal), and
Payback (a gift from the Wyrd, giving benefits such as healing, not
being damaged in the first place, more success on your next magical
action, or a nifty magical effect on your next mundane action).
Xandoria Core Fuzion
J. Parker
2005
Dilly Green Bean Games
A science fantasy RPG set on a planet that once was the greatest prison
in the universe. After a mysterious cataclysm, it was thrown into
an ice age, and recovered centuries later with the the construction
of Atmosphere Controllers. The planet is now lush with life, but
plagued by hidden horrors still lurking there. It uses a variant
of the <a href="GAME#fuzion">Fuzion</a> system, originaly
from R. Talsorian games.
Xenoforce
Simon Parkinson
1997
Dragon Games
An alien invasion conspiracy RPG, based around a secret government
organization dedicated to defending the Earth against an alliance of
aliens planning to infiltrate and conquer Earth. In 1947, a number
of aliens were left behind from a crashed spaceship, who allied to
prepare for a slower-than-light invasion centuries in the future.
There are five types of aliens on Earth: Controller, Infiltrater,
Observer, Morpher, Grunt. The system uses five attributes (Strength,
Perception, Constitution, Agility, Influence) and various percentile
skills. Character creation includes random-roll attributes (2d4 x 10
+ 1d10, for a range from 21 to 90) and point-bought skills.
Xro Dinn Chronicles
Matthew Webster
Eric Wujcik
Aaron Rosenberg
Dan Ryan
Jamie Jarvis
Matthew Webster
Darrell Hardy
2001
Ionian Game Studios
A hard science fiction RPG, set in a lawless sector of the galaxy known
as the Frontier. Five races are plagued by the shapeshifting
Sharr'Dann, who are more powerful physically and technologically
than any other race. It uses a skill-based system using d20 rolls.
Year of the Phoenix
Martin Wixted
1986
FGU
A sci-fi RPG set in 2197 where Russians occupy most of North
America. Astronauts of the U.S. Space Command crash-land after
an unusual "temporal displacement", and emerge to oppose them.
It uses a percentile skill-based system. Character creation is
limited point-bought.
Yellow Dawn: The Age of Hastur
David J. Rodger
2005
Lulu
David J. Rodger
2008
A post-apocalyptic horror RPG set in a future where the Earth's
population has been devastated by disease some time in the 2030s.
The orbital colonies and deep-space habitats cut off contact to
protect themselves from infection and did nothing to help.
After over 70% of the population died, further horrors emerged
including zombies and orcs (the results of infection) as well as
more supernatural phenomena. It uses a percentile skill-based system
similar to <a href="GAME#callofcthulhu">Call of Cthulhu</a>,
adding Ranks to professions that represent conviction and faith in
your own abilities, that function similar to a character level system.
Ysgarth
David Nalle
1979
Ragnarok Press
2nd
1980
3rd
1982
4th
1982
5th
1985
7th
1998
A fantasy-genre RPG, which has changed significantly over 7
editions. In general, it uses a percentile skill system, with
limited point-bought character creation. It has an
action-point-based combat system.
Yurl'h
Patrick Durand-Peyrolles
1995
Tamise Productions
A French-language medieval fantasy RPG. It uses a d6 and d100
based sytem.
Yuuyake Koyake
Ryo Kamiya
2006
Sunset Games
A modern-day fantasy RPG where the player characters are henge -
magical animals with able take on human form. Adventures focus on
helping ordinary people in a town in rural Japan. Character creation
starts with picking one of six character types, each with their own
special abilities: fox, raccoon dog, cat, dog, rabbit, or bird.
Resolution uses a diceless system based on point spending. Each
character has a Connection stats (from 1 to 5) to the town and to
each other PC. At the start of each scene, a character gets points
of Wonder equal to total connections to them, and points of Feelings
equal to total connections from others. Wonder is spent on special
powers, Feelings to boost attributes, and both can be spent on
transforming.
Zero
Steve Stone
Lester Smith
1997
Archangel
2nd
1999
Dynasty
A bizarre sci-fi game where PC's are biomech hive members cut
off from the collective consciousness (the god-queen "Zero"). The
characters learn to become individuals and find that their lives
were not as nice as they thought. Worse, they are now considered
enemies of the hive. It uses a simple skill system: Choose a
number of skills that you want to concentrate on ("Focus
skills"). The number you chose is your Focus rating. On focus
skills you want to roll <em>over</em> the Focus rating;
on other skills you want to roll <em>under</em> the
Focus rating. Thus, the more Focus skills you have, the worse
you are at them. The roll is 1d6 times 1d6 (i.e. 1 to 36).
Zły Cien: Kruki Urojenia
Jacek J. Greczyszyn
1995
Szaman
A Polish-language fantasy RPG based on Slavic history and mythology.
The title translates as "The Evil Shadow: Ravens of Delusion". It
was the first original Polish-language RPG. It uses a complex
rules system.
Zombeja! Ovella! / Zombie Cinema
Eero Tuovinen
2007
Arkenstone Publishing
1st English
2008
Arkenstone Publishing
A horror genre storytelling game about a zombie apocalypse, that mixes
board game and role-playing elements. Players take turns directing
scenes, and by conflicts with other players their character token may
move closer to the zombie token. If the zombie token is in the same
scene, the player describes how their character is killed. The game
comes in a boxed set that includes a game board, tokens, rules sheet,
and 27 Cinema Cards. Players choose from three types of character
cards for creating their characters.
Zombi: The Earth won't hold the Dead...
Matt Johnston
Colin Johnston
Paul Keenan
1999
Crucible
A modern-day zombie horror RPG, based primarily on the George
Romero movies. It is published as a 68-page 5"x8" booklet that
includes the brief rules and more detailed background. It is set
in a world where in 1999 the dead begin to rise and rapidly cause
a breakdown of society. It uses a minimalist system. There are
10 traits (combining attributes and skills). Actions are
resolved by rolling 2d6 under trait + modifiers.
Zombieroolipeli Kalmo
Risto J. Hieta
Hans Zenjuga
1999
Artic Ranger Production
2nd
1999
Artic Ranger Production
A small-press Finnish-language tongue-in-cheeck horror RPG, whose title
translates to "Zombie Roleplaying Game: the Dead". A thin and small
A6-sized booklet, printed by Tehokopiointi KY. The PC's are zombies,
generated by various random-roll methods including previous profession
(lumberjack, celebrity, hobo, mafia boss,...) and how the character
died (i.e. the burglar shot back or bondage game gone too far).
Action resolution uses d6 and d8. There is a live-action version
of this game entitled "Elokalmo" (roughly "Life-Dead").
Zone
Nicolas Thery
Franck Bouchaud
1986
Siroz
A French-language modern-day suburban-violence / teen
rebellion RPG.
Zontana Epi (Ζωντανα Επι)
Thomas Mastakouris
2000
Aiolos
"Living Epics" -- A Greek-language RPG set in the mythic
Greece of Homer's epics. It uses a skill-based system.
The Zorcerer of Zo
Chad Underkoffler
2006
Atomic Sock Monkey Press
A fairy tale fantasy RPG using a variant of the Prose Descriptive
Qualities (PDQ) system from
in <a href="GAME#truthandjustice">Truth & Justice</a>.
It includes description of the genre and many notes from campaign play,
but only a few details on a sample setting. Resolution is based on
2d6 + stat versus difficulty or opposed roll, possibly modified by
spending Hero Point(s). Character creation is limited point-bought,
distributing 6 Ranks of Qualities among player-defined traits and
defining one Flaw that grants Hero Points when invoked.