Deadlands RPG⁚ A Guide to the Weird West
Deadlands is a popular role-playing game set in a unique version of the American West; The game features a blend of western themes with supernatural elements‚ including magic‚ monsters‚ and a whole lot of mayhem. While the game has seen several editions‚ the most popular versions are Deadlands⁚ Reloaded and Deadlands⁚ Classic. Both feature a unique blend of Western and supernatural elements that make them stand out from other RPGs. A variety of resources are available for the game‚ and many of them are freely available as PDF files. Players can access the core rulebooks‚ character sheets‚ and adventures online. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the Deadlands RPG‚ its setting‚ various editions‚ and the resources available to help players dive into this unique and exciting world.
Introduction
Welcome to the world of Deadlands‚ a role-playing game that takes the Wild West and twists it into a unique and thrilling experience. Deadlands isn’t just about cowboys and Indians; it’s about a world where the supernatural has infiltrated the American frontier‚ creating a world of danger and intrigue. It’s a world where ghost rock fuels a new kind of technology‚ where the dead walk the earth‚ and where powerful magic is wielded by both heroes and villains. If you’re looking for a unique RPG experience that blends the grit of the Wild West with the supernatural‚ Deadlands is for you. This guide will explore the different editions of Deadlands‚ including Deadlands⁚ Reloaded and Deadlands⁚ Classic‚ providing an overview of the game’s setting‚ rules‚ and the rich history that has been built around this unique world. We’ll delve into the various resources available for the game‚ particularly focusing on the availability of PDF files that offer access to the core rulebooks‚ character sheets‚ and adventures that bring Deadlands to life. So saddle up‚ partner‚ and prepare to journey into the heart of the Weird West with Deadlands.
The Setting of Deadlands
The Deadlands setting is a fascinating blend of historical fiction and supernatural horror‚ taking place in an alternate 1879 American West. The Civil War ended with a tense truce‚ leaving the nation fractured and on edge. The Great Quake of ’68 devastated California‚ leaving behind a landscape of flooded canyons and buried cities. But the most significant change to the West came with the discovery of ghost rock‚ a mysterious substance that fuels a new kind of technology and has awakened a supernatural threat. This powerful energy has unleashed a wave of monstrous creatures‚ including the undead‚ mutated beasts‚ and powerful spirits‚ into the world. These creatures have infiltrated every corner of the West‚ from the dusty plains to the bustling towns‚ posing a constant threat to those who dare to venture into the wilds. The Deadlands setting is a world of danger and intrigue‚ where the line between reality and the supernatural is blurred. It’s a world where the heroes are not just cowboys and gunslingers but also bounty hunters‚ lawmen‚ and even mystics‚ all fighting to survive and maintain some semblance of order in a world gone mad. The Deadlands setting is not just a backdrop; it’s a living‚ breathing world that shapes the game’s narrative and challenges its players.
Deadlands⁚ Reloaded
Deadlands⁚ Reloaded is the latest edition of the Deadlands RPG‚ utilizing the Savage Worlds Adventure Edition rules system. This edition streamlines the game’s mechanics‚ offering a more accessible and streamlined experience while maintaining the core elements that made Deadlands so popular. Deadlands⁚ Reloaded introduces new rules for magic and supernatural powers‚ making it easier for players to create unique and powerful characters. The game also features a wealth of new content‚ including new character options‚ monsters‚ and adventures. One of the most notable features of Deadlands⁚ Reloaded is its focus on player agency. The game provides players with more freedom to choose their own paths and create their own stories. Deadlands⁚ Reloaded is a great option for players who are new to the game or who are looking for a more streamlined and accessible experience. The game’s focus on player agency and its wealth of new content make it an exciting and rewarding experience for players of all experience levels.
Deadlands⁚ The Weird West
Deadlands⁚ The Weird West is the core rulebook for the Deadlands RPG. It provides all the information players need to create characters‚ run games‚ and explore the world of Deadlands. The book features a detailed setting description‚ including a history of the Weird West‚ a bestiary of monsters and creatures‚ and a variety of rules and mechanics for playing the game. The book also includes a number of pre-made adventures that can be used to get players started. Deadlands⁚ The Weird West is a great resource for both new and experienced players. It provides all the information you need to get started with the game‚ and it is full of useful information that will help you create memorable and engaging game sessions. The book is available in both physical and digital format‚ with the digital format being a popular choice for players who prefer to access their game materials online. Many players have found that Deadlands⁚ The Weird West is a great way to experience the Deadlands setting and its unique blend of western and supernatural elements.
Deadlands⁚ Classic
Deadlands⁚ Classic is the original version of the Deadlands RPG‚ published in 1996. It is a d20-based system‚ meaning that it uses a 20-sided die to resolve actions. Deadlands⁚ Classic is known for its gritty and violent setting‚ its focus on character customization‚ and its unique blend of western and supernatural elements. The game features a wide range of character options‚ including cowboys‚ lawmen‚ gunslingers‚ and even supernatural creatures like vampires and werewolves. It is a great choice for players who enjoy a more traditional RPG experience with a strong focus on character development. The original core rulebook is no longer in print‚ but players can still find copies online or at used game stores. The game is a popular choice for those who enjoy a more old-school style of RPG‚ and it is a great choice for players who are looking for a unique and challenging game experience.
Deadlands⁚ The Great Rail Road
Deadlands⁚ The Great Rail Road is a sourcebook for the Deadlands RPG that focuses on the expansion of the railroad across the American West. The book features a detailed history of the railroad in the Deadlands setting‚ including information on the major railroads‚ the people who built them‚ and the impact they had on the landscape. It also includes rules for playing in a railroad-themed campaign‚ including new character options‚ gear‚ and adventures. The book is a great resource for players who want to explore the more industrial side of the Deadlands setting‚ and it provides a unique and exciting way to experience the game. The book is a great addition to any Deadlands player’s collection‚ and it is a must-have for anyone who wants to run a railroad-themed campaign.
Deadlands⁚ The Epitaph
Deadlands⁚ The Epitaph is a sourcebook for the Deadlands RPG that delves deeper into the world’s history and lore. The book expands on the setting’s rich history‚ exploring the events that led up to the Weird West and the impact of the supernatural on the world. It provides detailed information on various locations‚ factions‚ and organizations‚ giving players a more comprehensive understanding of the Deadlands universe. The book also introduces new rules and mechanics for playing in the Deadlands setting‚ including new Edges‚ Arcane Backgrounds‚ and supernatural abilities. It offers a wealth of information for both players and Game Masters‚ allowing them to create more immersive and engaging Deadlands experiences. With its focus on expanding the lore and offering new gameplay options‚ The Epitaph is a valuable resource for any Deadlands RPG player or Game Master.
Deadlands⁚ The Lost Colony
Deadlands⁚ The Lost Colony is an adventure module for the Deadlands RPG that takes players on a thrilling journey to the mysterious and dangerous Lost Colony of Roanoke. The module provides a detailed campaign setting‚ complete with a rich history‚ intriguing characters‚ and challenging encounters. Players must navigate the perils of the Lost Colony‚ uncovering its secrets and confronting the supernatural threats that lurk within its borders. The module features a unique blend of historical fiction and supernatural horror‚ immersing players in a world where the past and present collide. The Lost Colony offers a captivating adventure for Deadlands RPG players‚ providing a compelling narrative‚ engaging challenges‚ and a deeper understanding of the game’s rich lore. Players can access the module in PDF format‚ allowing them to dive into the world of The Lost Colony and embark on an unforgettable adventure.
Deadlands⁚ The Maw of Oblivion
Deadlands⁚ The Maw of Oblivion is a thrilling expansion for the Deadlands RPG that plunges players into a realm of cosmic horror and eldritch nightmares. This module introduces a terrifying new threat to the Weird West⁚ the Maw of Oblivion‚ a gaping portal to a dimension filled with unspeakable horrors. The Maw of Oblivion unleashes a wave of cosmic entities and monstrous creatures upon the world‚ forcing players to confront a truly apocalyptic threat. The module features a chilling new setting‚ with a unique blend of Lovecraftian horror and Western grit. Players will encounter terrifying new monsters‚ delve into ancient mysteries‚ and face the ultimate challenge of survival against a relentless tide of cosmic horror. The Maw of Oblivion is a must-have expansion for players seeking a truly terrifying and unforgettable Deadlands adventure. The module is available in PDF format‚ allowing players to dive into the chilling depths of the Maw of Oblivion and experience the true horror of the Weird West.
Deadlands⁚ The Horror Companion
Deadlands⁚ The Horror Companion is a chilling expansion for the Deadlands RPG that delves into the darker side of the Weird West. This module provides a wealth of new content for players and game masters seeking to explore the terrifying and supernatural aspects of the setting. The Horror Companion introduces a range of terrifying creatures‚ including monstrous ghouls‚ bloodthirsty vampires‚ and nightmarish demons. It also provides a detailed guide to creating chilling and atmospheric horror scenarios‚ with tips on how to evoke a sense of dread and suspense. The module features a comprehensive collection of new rules and options for creating horrifying encounters‚ from terrifying rituals to spine-chilling hauntings. The Horror Companion also includes a selection of pre-written adventures that can be seamlessly integrated into existing campaigns or used as standalone encounters. Whether you’re looking to add a touch of terror to your Deadlands game or create an entirely horror-themed campaign‚ Deadlands⁚ The Horror Companion is an indispensable resource for any game master seeking to unleash the full potential of the Weird West’s dark side. The companion is available in PDF format‚ providing easy access to the chilling content.
The Deadlands RPG offers a unique and engaging experience for players and game masters alike. With its blend of Western themes‚ supernatural elements‚ and a gritty and dangerous setting‚ Deadlands provides a rich and immersive world to explore. The availability of numerous resources in PDF format makes it easier than ever for players to access the game’s core rules‚ character sheets‚ and adventures. Whether you’re a seasoned RPG veteran or a newcomer to the genre‚ Deadlands⁚ The Weird West is an exciting and rewarding experience. The game’s blend of action‚ adventure‚ and horror offers something for everyone‚ and its rich setting provides endless possibilities for creative storytelling and roleplaying. So‚ saddle up‚ partner‚ and prepare to face the dangers and mysteries of the Weird West. With its wealth of available resources‚ including PDF files‚ Deadlands is a game that can be enjoyed by anyone with a thirst for adventure and a love for the supernatural.