One hobby that I picked up along the way has been tabletop games. Some people think that means Monopoly, Clue or Guess Who?. While I enjoy playing those games on family nights, I'm talking about more complex games. Dungeons and Dragons is, without question, the most recognized, and I enjoy playing that as well. I just frequently find it more and more difficult to line up all the schedules with friends to play.
In 2018, the author of Frostgrave, another game that I am a fan of but don't play often, self-published another game that he had created. It's set in a dark land overrun by creeping shadows and stirring evil. You build your own band of Rangers, customizing their stats, abilities, and even giving them names that fit the grim setting. This creates a party tailored to your preferred playstyle, whether you favor brute strength, magical prowess, or stealth and cunning. As your Rangers progress, you can further personalize them with equipment, skills, and spells, enhancing their capabilities in combat and exploration.
It felt like an indie D&D. While Rangers of Shadow Deep focuses more on combat and exploration than roleplaying, that perfectly lined up with how my friends and I usually played anyway.
And then I found the real hook: you have the chance to do it all by yourself. Forget waiting for the planets to align so that everyone can get together. With Rangers of Shadow Deep, I can delve into dark dungeons, dank caves, and treacherous forests whenever on my own time. Unlike some solo games that rely on apps or complicated AI, this one uses a clever system of simple rules to control enemy behavior, keeping the gameplay smooth and engaging.
Solo play is largely appealing to me, but cooperative play is also a feature available to those with less hectic schedules. There is the option of playing with up to four people, and you could probably fit a fifth in if someone wanted to take the traditional role of dungeon master.
The game offers a campaign system that allows your Rangers to grow and develop over time. Each victory grants them experience, unlocking new abilities and making them more formidable heroes. This adds a layer of replayability and keeps you invested in your characters' journeys.
As you explore these haunted landscapes, you'll face a variety of foes. From lowly spiders slinking in the shadows to terrifying bosses guarding ancient secrets. The enemy pool keeps the encounters fresh and new each time. There's also an element of exploration as you uncover hidden chambers and lost treasures. The loot you find can be used to upgrade your Rangers' equipment, making them even more prepared for the dangers ahead. But be aware that hard choices may be required as your character can only carry a limited number of items.
The overall tone of the game is dark and gritty, creating a real sense of tension and suspense as you delve deeper into the Shadow Deep. It perfectly captures the essence of what I love about tabletop RPGs – the thrill of combat, the excitement of exploration, and the satisfaction of seeing your characters grow in power. It's an excellent choice for tabletop gamers looking for an alternative to D&D.
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