Core Fantasy in a Nutshell

Core Fantasy Roleplaying is intended to be flexible, so it doesn’t assume a standard setting. These rules are compatible with any published setting or unique worlds designed for your table. However, these rules assume the setting you adopt is rooted in the fantasy genre.

Elements of Core Fantasy

Fantasy stories share several important core assumptions to remember when playing Core Fantasy Roleplaying.

1. Fantasy Worlds Have Magic

The presence of magic is the core principle of the fantasy genre. Your setting might have a unique spin on how magic works, but it should be present somehow, and the PCs should be able to access it.

2. Heroic Adventures

Fantasy stories are about heroes. The heroes—in this case, the PCs—need to be the focus of the stories you create with Core Fantasy Roleplaying. They need plenty of opportunities to defeat foes, make important decisions, and solve various other problems with their actions.

3. Unique Locations to Explore

Fantasy worlds are full of unique locales, cultures, and creatures. Core Fantasy Roleplaying games should include all manner of interesting corners to explore and wonders to uncover.

4. Power Structures and Systems

Whether through villainous empires or friendly guild factions, fantasy stories always include larger organizations that can challenge or push the heroes to grow their abilities. These power structures often form the cornerstone of large campaigns (games with many subsequent sessions) and the most compelling Core Fantasy Roleplaying adventures.

5. Conflict

At its heart, the fantasy genre is about standing up against impossible odds and—despite everything—emerging victorious. This game keeps that principle at its core and is about staging challenges for the PCs to overcome through cunning, might, and magic.