Solo RPGs: Four Against Darkness
Four Against Darkness
Summary: Relatively simple RPG mechanically (without being very narrative driven) with random dungeon map charts, monster lists, and simple magic, but no oracle.
- Format: 90 page (1/2 sized) book/PDF.
- #Characters: 4. Customization: Pick key equipment.
- Dice: 1d6 or 2d6 for some tables.
- Key Features: Quest List/Tables; Random dungeon mapping by rolling and adding pre-made rooms/corridors.
- Sample Character: Sam, Warrior level 1, Life 7, Atk Roll: +1, Def Roll: 2 (lt. armor, shield); Abilities: add full level to attack roll (included); hand weapon (slash), sling, 1gp.
- Oracle: Not a focus of the game.
- Quest Generation: Roll on a list.
- Dungeon Mapping: Random rolls, look at a chart of room/corridor shapes.
- Monsters/Traps/Room Contents: Roll on simple charts.
- Magic System: Just a pre-made list of 6 spells.
- Character Growth: Chance to level up (increases some abilities) when you kill a boss, complete a quest, kill 10 foes, etc.
In Four Against Darkness, you create four characters to complete quests by exploring a dungeon. To attack a monster, add your attack roll bonus to a d6. If it is over the monster’s level you hit it. Minions (low level monsters) and vermin have 1 life point each. Others have life points specified. If you roll more than double the monster’s level, you kill multiple or do more than one point of damage. When monsters attack a character, roll a d6 and add your defense roll bonus. If it is over the monster’s level, you defend successfully.
A table of quests determines your goal. More tables of mini-dungeon rooms & corridors help you map out the dungeon. When entering a dungeon or corridor, roll for what’s inside, then roll on the appropriate chart (monsters, traps, search an empty room, etc.) Keep exploring until you reach your goal.
