Cthulhu Dark Ages Setting Guide

Introduction

The Cthulhu Dark Ages Setting Guide is a supplement for the Call of Cthulhu 7th Edition Roleplaying Game. This guide transports players to a world illuminated only by fire, where ancient empires have crumbled, and learning has diminished. It is a perilous era where fear of the unknown is justified, as Viking raiders, witches, outlaws, the unquiet dead, ancient horrors, and other malevolent entities stalk the land. Dark entities, beyond conventional good and evil, lie hidden in the depths of time and space. This guide provides the tools for brave individuals to resist these horrors and push them back.

Figure 1: Front cover of the Cthulhu Dark Ages Setting Guide.

This revised edition offers a wealth of new setting material. It includes a player's guide to the Dark Ages, an optional Sanity mechanic reflecting the medieval mindset, rules for oral storytelling, and guidelines for mounted combat. Additionally, it features a grimoire of Dark Age spells, optional rules for folk magic, and a bestiary of monsters. A fully detailed Anglo-Saxon community named Totburh in England's Severn Valley is provided, complete with interesting characters, dwelling descriptions, and numerous plot hooks for Keepers (game masters) to utilize. Three scenarios are also included to introduce players to the Dark Age Severn Valley.

Game Components and Setup

Required Materials

• Call of Cthulhu 7th Edition Core Rulebook: This setting guide requires the core rules of Call of Cthulhu 7th Edition to play.
• Dice: A set of polyhedral dice (d4, d6, d8, d10, d12, d20, d100) is necessary for resolving actions and events.
• Players: A Keeper (game master) and at least two to three players are recommended.
• Writing Materials: Pencils, paper, and character sheets for each player.

Figure 2: The Call of Cthulhu Starter Set, a good starting point for new players.

Preparing for Play

1. Read the Guide: The Keeper should thoroughly read the Cthulhu Dark Ages Setting Guide, paying close attention to the historical context, optional rules, and scenarios.
2. Character Creation: Players create their investigators using the rules provided in the Call of Cthulhu 7th Edition Core Rulebook, adapting them to the Dark Ages setting with guidance from this guide.
3. Scenario Selection: The Keeper chooses one of the three included scenarios or develops their own using the Totburh setting and plot hooks.
4. Familiarize with Mechanics: Review the optional Sanity mechanic, rules for oral tradition, and mounted combat rules to integrate them into gameplay.

Playing the Game

In Cthulhu Dark Ages, players assume the roles of investigators who confront the horrors of the Cthulhu Mythos in a medieval setting. The game emphasizes investigation, mystery, and the psychological impact of encountering cosmic entities.

Investigator Roles

• Exploration: Investigators explore the Dark Ages world, uncovering clues and secrets.
• Interaction: Engage with non-player characters (NPCs) to gather information and assistance.
• Survival: Navigate a dangerous world where threats are both mundane and supernatural.

Keeper's Role

The Keeper facilitates the game, presenting the narrative, portraying NPCs, and adjudicating rules. This guide provides specific tools for the Keeper to create an immersive Dark Ages experience:

• Setting Details: Utilize the detailed description of Anglo-Saxon England and the community of Totburh to bring the world to life.
• Mythos Integration: Introduce ancient horrors and malevolent beings from the bestiary, ensuring they fit the medieval context.
• Plot Hooks: Develop compelling mysteries and adventures using the provided plot hooks and historical events.

Figure 3: An example of interior artwork from the guide, illustrating the dark atmosphere.

Care and Maintenance

To ensure the longevity of your Cthulhu Dark Ages Setting Guide, please follow these care instructions:

• Storage: Store the book in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and excessive humidity to prevent warping or fading.
• Handling: Handle the book with clean, dry hands. Avoid bending the spine excessively or forcing pages open flat, which can damage the binding.
• Protection: Keep the book away from liquids, food, and sharp objects to prevent stains, tears, or other damage.
• Cleaning: For dust, gently wipe the cover and pages with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.

Troubleshooting and Keeper Advice

This section offers guidance for Keepers to address common challenges and enhance the game experience.

Common Game Challenges

• Player Engagement: If players seem disengaged, try incorporating more personal stakes for their characters or introducing unexpected plot twists from the provided hooks.
• Pacing Issues: Adjust the pace by adding descriptive elements during slow moments or quickening the narrative during action sequences.
• Rule Clarifications: Refer to the Call of Cthulhu 7th Edition Core Rulebook for fundamental rules. This guide clarifies specific Dark Ages mechanics like the optional Sanity rules or mounted combat.

Enhancing the Dark Ages Atmosphere

• Emphasize the Unknown: Highlight the lack of scientific understanding in the Dark Ages to amplify the horror of the Mythos.
• Use Oral Tradition: Incorporate the rules for oral storytelling to convey rumors, legends, and fragmented knowledge, adding to the mystery.
• Leverage Totburh: Utilize the detailed setting of Totburh to create a living, breathing community with its own secrets and dangers.

Specifications

Support

For additional support, errata, or inquiries regarding the Cthulhu Dark Ages Setting Guide or other Chaosium products, please visit the official Chaosium website:

• Chaosium Official Website: www.chaosium.com

For information on product returns or replacements due to manufacturing defects, please refer to the retailer's return policy where the book was purchased.