Grim Hollow⁚ The Players Guide ー An Overview
Grim Hollow⁚ The Players Guide is the ultimate players companion for making gritty characters in a dark fantasy campaign. The perfect companion supplement for Grim Hollow⁚ The Campaign Guide.
Introduction
Grim Hollow⁚ The Players Guide is a third-party supplement for Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition, designed to enhance the gritty, dark fantasy setting of the Grim Hollow campaign world. This guide provides players with a wealth of new options for character creation, including unique races, subclasses, backgrounds, and a variant inspiration system. It also introduces new schools of magic, such as Sangromancy (blood magic), and delves into the unique magic system of the world of Etharis. The guide is intended to be compatible with the 5th Edition rules and is designed to be user-friendly for both new and experienced players. It offers a comprehensive and immersive experience for those seeking a darker, more challenging campaign setting.
Etharis⁚ A Dark Fantasy World
Etharis is a world steeped in darkness and despair, a place where hope is a fading memory and survival is a constant struggle. Gods have vanished, leaving behind only the remnants of their power in the form of Arch Seraphs and Arch Daemons. These celestial beings inspire or tempt humanity, shaping the world with their influence. Magic is a rare and often dangerous force, strictly regulated or outright outlawed in many regions. The world is plagued by curses, plagues, and ghoulish creatures, remnants of a bygone age of powerful magic and ancient conflicts. Civilization clings desperately to survival, haunted by the ghosts of a fallen past. The world of Etharis presents a unique and challenging setting for a dark fantasy campaign, where players must confront the bleak realities of a world where hope is a luxury.
Character Creation
Character creation in Grim Hollow⁚ The Players Guide is a journey into the heart of darkness, where players craft heroes who are as flawed and resilient as the world they inhabit. The guide offers a wealth of options for creating unique and compelling characters, from unusual races and gritty backgrounds to powerful new subclasses that reflect the grim realities of Etharis. The guide provides a unique and immersive experience for players, allowing them to create characters who are not only powerful but also deeply connected to the world they inhabit. With its emphasis on grit and realism, Grim Hollow⁚ The Players Guide encourages players to create characters who are not just heroes, but survivors, driven by a desperate need to carve out a place for themselves in a world where hope is a rare commodity.
Races and Subraces
Grim Hollow⁚ The Players Guide expands upon the traditional D&D races, offering a unique twist on familiar favorites and introducing entirely new options that embody the dark fantasy setting. Players can choose from races like the Laneshi, an aquatic race divided between those who deal with life and those who deal with death, or the Downcast, descendants of angels who have fallen from grace. The guide also introduces subraces, providing additional layers of depth and customization. These subraces reflect the unique cultures and histories of Etharis, allowing players to create characters with distinct origins and motivations. From the resilient Half-Giants who have adapted to the harsh realities of the world to the secretive Dhampir who walk the line between human and vampire, Grim Hollow⁚ The Players Guide offers a diverse array of options for players seeking to create truly unique and compelling characters.
Classes and Subclasses
The Grim Hollow⁚ The Players Guide expands the traditional D&D class system with 24 new subclasses, each designed to enhance the gritty and dark fantasy themes of the setting. These subclasses offer players a wider range of options for customizing their characters, allowing them to specialize in unique roles and playstyles. From the Blood Mage, who draws power from the lifeblood of their enemies, to the Death Knight, who commands the undead with chilling power, these subclasses provide a unique flavor to each class, allowing players to embody the grim realities of Etharis. Whether seeking to become a master of necromancy, a cunning rogue who operates in the shadows, or a warrior who wields the power of the ancient gods, Grim Hollow⁚ The Players Guide offers a wide array of options for players to explore.
Backgrounds and Inspiration
The Grim Hollow⁚ The Players Guide introduces a unique twist on character backgrounds and inspiration, reflecting the harsh realities of Etharis. Instead of simply choosing a background, players are encouraged to delve into a deeper understanding of their character’s past and motivations. The guide offers a comprehensive system for creating unique backgrounds that shape the character’s personality, skills, and even their alignment. Players can choose from a variety of pre-designed backgrounds, each tailored to the specific setting, or they can craft their own using the provided guidelines. The inspiration system, a core mechanic in Grim Hollow, is also revamped, allowing players to earn inspiration based on their actions and choices, reflecting the gritty and morally ambiguous nature of the world.
Magic in Etharis
Magic in Etharis is a force both powerful and perilous, reflecting the dark and unforgiving nature of the setting. The Grim Hollow⁚ The Players Guide explores the unique magic system of Etharis, where magic is not only rare but also heavily regulated, often outlawed or strictly controlled. The guide delves into the history of magic in Etharis, explaining the role of the Arch Seraphs and Arch Daemons, the remnants of a bygone era when gods ruled the world. Players will learn about the different schools of magic, including the intriguing Sangromancy (blood magic), a forbidden art that draws power from the life force itself. The guide provides detailed information on the various magical colleges, their teachings, and the licenses required for practicing magic, offering players a glimpse into the complex and dangerous world of magic in Etharis.
Schools of Magic
The Grim Hollow⁚ The Players Guide delves into the intricate world of magic in Etharis, introducing various schools of magic, each with its own unique flavor and mechanics. These schools represent different approaches to harnessing magical power, reflecting the diverse philosophies and practices found in Etharis. Players will encounter schools like Abjuration, Conjuration, Divination, Enchantment, Evocation, Illusion, Necromancy, and Transmutation. Each school is described in detail, highlighting its strengths, weaknesses, and unique spells. Players will discover the intricacies of each school, allowing them to choose the one that best aligns with their character’s background, abilities, and playstyle. The guide also provides an overview of the magical colleges, institutions where aspiring mages learn and refine their magical skills. The Players Guide presents a compelling and detailed look at the magical landscape of Etharis, offering players a rich tapestry of magical options to explore.
Sangromancy (Blood Magic)
Grim Hollow⁚ The Players Guide introduces a unique and intriguing school of magic known as Sangromancy, often referred to as blood magic. This school draws upon the life force of living beings, manipulating blood and vital energy to achieve its effects. Sangromancy is a powerful but dangerous art, often associated with dark rituals and forbidden practices. The Players Guide provides a comprehensive exploration of Sangromancy, detailing its origins, principles, and mechanics. Players will learn about the specific rituals, sacrifices, and consequences associated with this school of magic. The guide also presents a collection of spells and abilities unique to Sangromancy, allowing players to unleash the full potential of this blood-fueled magic. From healing to curses, Sangromancy offers a unique and challenging approach to magic in Grim Hollow, adding an element of dark fantasy and intrigue to the game.
The Lands of Etharis
Grim Hollow⁚ The Players Guide offers a detailed exploration of Etharis, a dark fantasy world filled with danger and intrigue. The guide delves into the unique history, culture, and geography of Etharis, providing players with a rich and immersive setting for their adventures. From the crumbling ruins of ancient empires to the untamed wilderness, Etharis is a world steeped in ancient lore and forgotten secrets. The guide provides players with an understanding of the various factions, religions, and political landscapes that shape the world. The Players Guide also includes a detailed map of Etharis, showcasing the key regions and locations that players might encounter during their adventures. With this information, players can gain a deeper understanding of the world they are exploring, adding a layer of depth and realism to their campaigns.
The Kingdom of Aethel
The Kingdom of Aethel, a land steeped in history and shrouded in mystery, is one of the prominent regions in Grim Hollow. Known for its vast forests, rolling hills, and ancient ruins, Aethel holds a unique position within the world of Etharis. It is a land where magic is outlawed and tightly regulated, leading to a society deeply divided between those who embrace tradition and those who yearn for freedom. The kingdom is ruled by a powerful monarchy, with the King and Queen at the helm. Their influence extends over numerous settlements and villages, each with its own distinct culture and traditions. The Kingdom of Aethel is a land of contrasts, where the beauty of nature often masks a darkness lurking beneath the surface. It is a place where ancient lore and forgotten secrets can be found, offering a rich backdrop for gritty and challenging adventures.
The Dominion of Eldoria
The Dominion of Eldoria, a vast and powerful empire, stands as a stark contrast to the more traditional kingdoms of Etharis. Its influence stretches across the eastern reaches of the continent, encompassing a diverse array of cultures and landscapes. Eldoria is renowned for its advanced technology, its ruthless efficiency, and its unwavering pursuit of power. The Dominion’s history is marked by conquest and expansion, its armies a formidable force that has shaped the political landscape of Etharis. However, Eldoria’s strength comes at a price. The Dominion is a place where magic is tightly controlled and regulated, with those who wield it closely monitored by the ruling elite. It is a society where ambition and ruthlessness are prized, where the pursuit of power often overshadows all other concerns. The Dominion of Eldoria is a land of both opportunity and danger, a place where players can find themselves caught in the machinations of a powerful and often unforgiving empire.
The Republic of Vespera
The Republic of Vespera stands as a beacon of hope and defiance against the encroaching darkness that threatens to engulf Etharis. Located in the heart of the continent, Vespera is a nation built on the principles of freedom and equality, a stark contrast to the authoritarian rule of the Dominion of Eldoria. The Republic is a haven for those seeking refuge from persecution, a place where magic is not feared, but embraced, and where individuals are given the opportunity to shape their own destinies. However, Vespera’s commitment to freedom has come at a cost. The Republic is a fragile entity, constantly struggling to defend its borders against the encroaching forces of darkness, and the threat of internal conflict remains a constant presence. Despite the challenges, Vespera remains a symbol of hope in a world consumed by despair, a testament to the enduring human spirit. Players venturing into the Republic of Vespera will find a land brimming with diverse cultures, vibrant cities, and a sense of optimism that sets it apart from the rest of Etharis.
Playing Grim Hollow
Grim Hollow offers a unique and challenging experience for players seeking a darker and more gritty take on the classic Dungeons & Dragons fantasy setting. The campaign guide and players guide work in tandem to create a world where survival is paramount, and where hope is a fleeting commodity. Players must navigate a world where the gods are dead, magic is outlawed or strictly controlled, and the forces of darkness are constantly encroaching. The game encourages players to make difficult choices, with consequences that can have lasting impacts on their characters and the world around them. Players will be challenged to overcome adversity, to make tough decisions, and to forge their own paths in a world where morality is often blurred and the lines between good and evil are constantly shifting. Grim Hollow is not for the faint of heart, but for those seeking a truly immersive and unforgettable fantasy adventure, it offers a unique and rewarding experience.
Character Development
Grim Hollow offers players a unique and engaging character development system that reflects the grim and unforgiving nature of the setting. Players can choose from a variety of races, classes, and backgrounds, each with its own unique flavor and mechanics. The game encourages players to create characters with flaws and vulnerabilities, reflecting the harsh realities of life in Etharis. The game also introduces a variant inspiration system, allowing players to gain inspiration based on their actions and choices, rather than simply on the whims of the Dungeon Master. This system encourages players to roleplay their characters and to make decisions that align with their backgrounds and motivations. Furthermore, Grim Hollow emphasizes the importance of character growth and development through a system of scars and curses. These elements add a layer of depth and realism to character progression, forcing players to confront the consequences of their actions and to adapt to the challenges they face in the world of Etharis.
Campaign Setting
Grim Hollow’s campaign setting, Etharis, is a dark and gritty world where hope is a rare commodity. The world is ravaged by war, plagues, and a pervasive sense of dread. The setting is heavily inspired by dark fantasy and horror, with a focus on themes of corruption, decay, and the struggle for survival. Etharis is a world where magic is outlawed or strictly regulated, and where the gods have long since abandoned humanity to its fate. The setting is rich in lore and detail, with a complex history and intricate political landscape. Players will encounter a variety of factions, from the powerful and corrupt kingdoms to the desperate and downtrodden underclasses; The setting is designed to challenge and inspire players, offering a unique and immersive experience that is unlike anything found in traditional fantasy settings.
Gameplay Mechanics
Grim Hollow introduces a number of unique gameplay mechanics designed to enhance the gritty and unforgiving nature of the setting. These mechanics include a modified system for handling critical hits and failures, a new system for dealing with disease and corruption, and a unique approach to magic and spellcasting. The game also features a variety of new rules for combat, exploration, and social interaction. The game mechanics are designed to encourage players to think strategically and to make difficult choices. They also create a sense of tension and uncertainty, making every encounter feel like a real threat. Grim Hollow’s gameplay mechanics are a key part of what makes the setting so compelling and engaging. They allow players to experience the world in a new and exciting way, and they provide a unique challenge for even experienced D&D players.
