Before diving into this review, please be aware that it contains spoilers for “Cursed Scroll 2: Red Sands” in the Shadowdark RPG zine series. If you want to experience the twists, surprises, and dark secrets of this zine firsthand, stop reading now and consider sending your GM this way. You’ve been warned—venture ahead at your own risk!

Today I’ll review Shadowdark RPG Cursed Scroll 2 – Red Sands, another thrilling addition to the Shadowdark RPG universe. Last week, I reviewed Cursed Scroll 1 – Diablerie, which plunged players into a world of dark magic and corruption; Red Sands, however, shifts gears to transport adventurers into the heart of a vast and dangerous desert known as The Djurum. This zine, the second in the Cursed Scroll series, is a robust expansion that introduces an entirely new setting filled with perilous adventures, deadly adversaries, and ancient secrets waiting to be unearthed.

Cursed Scroll 2: Red Sands isn’t just another content add-on; it’s an immersive journey that challenges both Game Masters (GMs) and players to survive in one of the harshest environments imaginable. The Djurum is reminiscent of The Dark Sun setting, or Al-Qadim. A place where the sun blazes mercilessly during the day, the nights are bitterly cold, and the sands are as treacherous as the enemies lurking within them. For those seeking a true test of their mettle, Cursed Scroll 2: Red Sands provides the ultimate adventure. This review will delve deeply into every aspect of Red Sands, from its richly detailed setting to the new character classes it introduces, the intense pit fights, the monstrous foes that haunt the dunes, and the epic adventure that awaits in the depths of the Howling Caves.

As with all of the Cursed Scrolls zines, Red Sands is designed to integrate seamlessly with the Shadowdark RPG core rules, offering both GMs and players fresh opportunities for exploration, combat, and storytelling. But beyond the mechanics, Cursed Scroll 2: Red Sands is an invitation to step into a world of ancient mysteries, where every grain of sand tells a story, and every shadow could conceal a deadly threat. So, grab your gear, mount your steed, and prepare to traverse The Djurum, where adventure and danger are just over the next dune.

New Setting: The Djurum

At the heart of Cursed Scroll 2: Red Sands lies The Djurum, a sprawling desert that serves as the primary setting for the adventures and challenges presented in this zine. As with The Gloaming in Cursed Scroll 1 – Diablerie, The Djurum is not merely a backdrop for the action—it is a character in its own right, a living, breathing entity that shapes the experiences of those who dare to venture into its vast expanse.

A vast, shimmering desert where red mountains stand silent watch over windblown valleys and undulating sand dunes. Merchant caravans pick their way between fragile oases that dot the wastes, hoping to miss the path of mountain bandits, a howling sandstorm, or the skyborn death of The Scourge. Here, efreet-haunted canyons hide the ancient redoubt of the Ras- Godai assassins, and priceless secrets lie buried, waiting for the winds to shift in their favor…

Hex Map and Key Locations

The Djurum is meticulously mapped out in a hex grid, with each hex representing 6 miles of treacherous terrain. This hex map is not just a tool for navigation; it’s a vital component of the game, encouraging exploration and adding an element of unpredictability to the adventure. It is an old school hex-crawl. Each hex can potentially contain random encounters, hidden treasures, or deadly traps, making every journey across The Djurum a thrilling experience.

New Character Classes in Cursed Scroll 2: Red Sands

As with all of the Cursed Scroll zines, Cursed Scroll 2: Red Sands introduces three new character classes that are tailor-made for the zine and setting, in this case the new character classes are for desert adventures: the Desert Rider, the Pit Fighter, and the Ras-Godai. Each class offers unique abilities and a distinct playstyle, making them valuable additions to any adventuring party. Whether you’re charging into battle on horseback, fighting for survival in the pits, or striking from the shadows, these new classes bring a fresh dynamic to the game.

Desert Rider

The Desert Rider is a master of mounted combat, capable of charging into battle with devastating effect. This class is designed for players who want to harness the power of speed and mobility, using their mounts to gain the upper hand in combat. The Desert Rider‘s talents include bonuses to attacks while mounted and the ability to train and command their mounts with ease.

From a role-playing perspective, the Desert Rider offers rich opportunities for storytelling. The bond between the Desert Rider and their mount is central to the character, and players can explore this relationship in a variety of ways. Is the mount a loyal companion, a fierce warrior in its own right, or a mysterious creature with a mind of its own? The Desert Rider‘s journey is one of partnership and mutual respect, where the rider and mount must work together to survive the harsh environment of The Djurum.

Pit Fighter

Pit Fighters are brutal warriors who thrive in the chaos of close combat. They excel in arenas and duels, where their resilience and raw power come to the fore. Pit Fighters are known for their ability to recover from injuries quickly and their relentless fighting spirit, making them formidable opponents in any battle.

The Pit Fighter‘s talents are focused on survival and offense, allowing them to shrug off wounds that would incapacitate others and deliver devastating blows to their enemies. This class is all about getting up close and personal, using brute force and raw skill to dominate the battlefield. Whether fighting in the pits for glory or battling bandits in the desert, the Pit Fighter is a class that excels in one-on-one combat.

From a role-playing perspective, the Pit Fighter is a character who has been shaped by their experiences in the arena. They are hardened warriors who have fought for their lives in the pits, and this background gives them a unique perspective on the world. The Pit Fighter‘s journey is one of survival and redemption, where they must come to terms with their past and find a new path in the harsh world of The Djurum.

Ras-Godai

The Ras-Godai are shadowy assassins trained in the art of death and have earned the right to eat a petal of the fabled Black Lotus flower. These characters are deadly in combat, able to strike with precision and disappear without a trace. The Ras-Godai‘s talents include the ability to teleport short distances and deal devastating damage to surprised enemies. They also receive additional Black Lotus talents, making them versatile and dangerous adversaries.

The Ras-Godai is a class that excels in stealth and assassination, making them ideal for players who prefer a more subtle approach to combat. Whether slipping through the shadows to strike down a target or using their teleportation abilities to escape from danger, the Ras-Godai is a class that rewards careful planning and precise execution.

From a role-playing perspective, the Ras-Godai is a character shrouded in mystery and intrigue. They are assassins who operate in the shadows, carrying out their deadly missions with ruthless efficiency. The Ras-Godai‘s journey is one of secrecy and deception, where they must navigate the dangerous world of The Djurum without revealing their true intentions. Whether serving a mysterious patron or pursuing their own goals, the Ras-Godai is a class that offers rich opportunities for storytelling and character development.

New Weapons and Equipment in Cursed Scroll 2: Red Sands

In addition to new character classes, Cursed Scroll 2: Red Sands expands the arsenal available to players with a variety of new weapons and equipment tailored to the desert setting. These include the scimitar, a curved blade ideal for swift, slashing attacks, and the blowgun, a weapon favored by assassins for its stealthy delivery of poisons. The addition of these new weapons and equipment enhances the gameplay, allowing players to customize their characters to suit the challenges of The Djurum.

Scimitar

The scimitar is a weapon perfectly suited to the desert environment. Its curved blade allows for quick, slashing attacks, making it ideal for mounted combat or close-quarters fighting. Many of the warriors in The Djurum, from bandits to Desert Riders, favor the scimitar, and its presence in the game adds a new layer of strategy to combat.

Blowgun

The blowgun is a weapon of stealth and precision, favored by assassins and those who prefer to strike from the shadows. The blowgun can deliver poisoned darts silently and from a distance, making it an invaluable tool for the Ras-Godai and other characters who rely on stealth. The blowgun’s effectiveness is enhanced by the use of various poisons, which can incapacitate or kill a target without leaving a trace.

New Gameplay Mechanics in Cursed Scroll 2: Red Sands

Pit Fighting

Pit fighting is a central theme in Cursed Scroll 2: Red Sands, offering players the chance to test their mettle in brutal combat arenas. The zine provides detailed rules for setting up and running pit fights, including tables for determining the venue, stakes, and potential twists in the fight. Pit fighting is not just about combat; it is also a way for characters to gain fame, fortune, and experience.

Pit fighting in Red Sands is designed to be fast-paced and brutal, with a focus on one-on-one combat. The rules for pit fighting include mechanics for determining the outcome of each fight, as well as tables for generating random events and obstacles that can affect the outcome, including an enduring wounds table. These mechanics add an element of unpredictability to pit fights, ensuring that no two fights are ever the same.

The zine includes a variety of pre-generated tables for pit fighting venues, ranging from low-stakes brawls in back alleys to epic battles in grand arenas. Each venue has its own unique challenges and rewards, and players must adapt their strategies to the specific conditions of the venue. Whether fighting for their lives in a dusty pit or competing for glory in a grand arena, pit fighters must use all of their skills and resources to emerge victorious.

Travel and Survival in the Desert

As stated previously, the harsh environment of The Djurum is more than just a backdrop; it is a significant challenge that players must overcome. Cursed Scroll 2: Red Sands introduces rules for surviving the desert, including dealing with extreme temperatures, and navigating sandstorms. These survival mechanics add a new layer of difficulty to the game, forcing players to plan carefully and make strategic decisions to stay alive.

Sandstorms

Sandstorms are a common occurrence in The Djurum, and they pose a significant threat to anyone caught in their path. The rules for sandstorms include mechanics for determining the severity and duration of the storm, as well as the effects on visibility and movement. Players must be prepared for the sudden onset of a sandstorm, as it can quickly turn a routine journey into a fight for survival.

New Monsters and Adversaries in Cursed Scroll 2: Red Sands

Red Sands is filled with new monsters and adversaries that are tailored to the desert setting. These include the Dust Devil, a whirling elemental of sand, and the Dunefiend, a demonic creature that haunts the dunes. Each monster is designed to challenge players in unique ways, forcing them to adapt their strategies to survive.

The Dust Devil

The Dust Devil is a whirling elemental of sand and wind, capable of tearing through anything in its path. This creature is a force of nature, driven by the desert’s fury and capable of inflicting serious damage on those who cross its path. The Dust Devil‘s attacks are swift and devastating, and it can only be harmed by magical weapons, making it a formidable opponent in combat.

The Dunefiend

The Dunefiend is a demonic creature that haunts the dunes of The Djurum, preying on the weak and vulnerable. The Dunefiend appears as a claylike elf with a jagged mouth and no other facial features, and its howl can keep the players awake at night gaining no benefit from rest!

The Scourge

One of the most formidable enemies introduced in Red Sands is The Scourge, an ancient desert dragon corrupted by dark magic. The Scourge is a terrifying foe, capable of unleashing devastating lightning attacks.

The Scourge writhes and screams in constant pain. Its brass and lapis scales are choked with a sickly, green patina. Blue lightning snaps and coils in the air around it, and thunderclouds follow wherever it flies, but no rain falls from the tormented skies.

New Adventure: Fortress of the Burning Brothers

In the heart of Red Sands lies the adventure “Fortress of the Burning Brothers,” a full-length quest designed for characters of 4th to 6th level. This adventure is the crown jewel of the zine, taking players deep into a treacherous and labyrinthine duergar mine where ancient powers and bitter rivalries simmer beneath the surface. This adventure is more than just a test of strength and skill; it is a narrative-driven experience that challenges players to navigate complex social dynamics, make difficult moral choices, and confront powerful enemies.

The Iron Fortress: Setting and Atmosphere

The Iron Fortress contains a network of tunnels and chambers that delve deep into the earth beneath The Djurum. These mines are a place of perpetual darkness, where the only light comes from the flickering torches carried by the adventurers and the occasional glow of molten magma seeping through cracks in the rock. The air is thick with the smell of sulfur, the distant echoes of hammering, and the groaning of ancient machinery.

The oppressive atmosphere, the constant threat of cave-ins, and the ever-present danger of getting lost in the twisting tunnels all contribute to the sense of tension and urgency that permeates the adventure. The players must navigate this treacherous environment while also dealing with the various factions that inhabit the caves, each with their own agendas and ambitions.

The Burning Brothers: Efreeti Lords in Conflict

At the heart of the adventure are the Burning Brothers, two powerful efreeti lords who have taken control of the duergar mine and are locked in a bitter struggle for dominance. These two brothers, Malik and Gaspar, are as different as fire and ice, and their conflict threatens to consume the entire mine in flames.

Malik the Cunning: Malik is thin as a whip and shrewd as a viper, wielding sorcery that even his tutors in the City of Brass feared to use. He’s in charge of the rich mines and forgeworks beneath the Iron Fortress, as well as its duergar slaves — allies who are fanatically loyal to him due to his clever use of enslaving magic. He also has an opportunistic rakshasa ally, Halim, who spies on Gaspar.

Gaspar the Fierce: Gaspar towers over his brother, wielding his black-bladed scimitar with ferocity. He’s in charge of the fortress itself and commands the militant salamanders who defend it. The salamanders have sworn an oath of allegiance to the efreet in exchange for elevated status in society; they’re a cut above slaves. They’re ruthlessly loyal to those who guarantee their position. Rashik, Gaspar’s salamander spy, secretly lurks in the mines.

The players find themselves caught in the middle of this conflict, and they must decide which brother, if either, to support. Each brother offers different rewards and alliances, but siding with one will inevitably make an enemy of the other.

Using “Fortress of the Burning Brothers” in Your Campaign

“Fortress of the Burning Brothers” is a versatile adventure that can be used as a standalone quest or integrated into a larger campaign. Its themes of power, betrayal, and sacrifice make it a compelling story that can add depth and complexity to any Shadowdark RPG campaign.

For GMs, the adventure offers a wealth of material to work with. The Iron Fortress is a richly detailed setting filled with opportunities for exploration, combat, and role-playing. The conflict between the Burning Brothers provides a strong narrative backbone for the adventure, while the various factions within the mines offer opportunities for dynamic and evolving gameplay.

GMs can also customize the adventure to fit the needs of their campaign. The Burning Brothers can be reimagined as different types of elemental lords, or the setting of the Iron Fortress can be adapted to a different environment, such as a frozen tundra or a jungle overgrown with dangerous flora. The core elements of the adventure—the conflict between two powerful beings, the presence of enslaved workers, and the treacherous environment—can be easily adapted to fit different campaign settings and storylines.

“Fortress of the Burning Brothers” is a standout adventure in Red Sands, offering a rich and immersive experience that challenges players both mechanically and narratively. Whether you’re looking for a thrilling dungeon crawl, a story-driven quest, or a moral dilemma that will test your players’ convictions, this adventure has something to offer.

Game Master Guidance from Cursed Scroll 2: Red Sands

Running a successful campaign using Red Sands requires planning and a fundamental understanding of the themes and mechanics introduced in the zine. Fortunately, Red Sands provides comprehensive guidance for GMs, ensuring that they are well-equipped to create dynamic, immersive, and engaging experiences for their players.

Setting the Tone

One of the most important aspects of running a Red Sands campaign is setting the tone. Red Sands is a dark and atmospheric zine, filled with themes of survival, conflict, and the harsh realities of life in the desert. It’s important for GMs to establish this tone early on, creating an environment where the characters are constantly confronted with the challenges of surviving in The Djurum.

The setting of The Djurum is a perfect backdrop for this tone, offering a world that is both beautiful and deadly. The desert is a place of extremes, where the sun can kill as easily as a sword, and where water is more valuable than gold. GMs should use descriptive language and sensory details to bring this world to life, immersing the players in the harsh and unforgiving environment of The Djurum.

In addition to setting the tone through description, GMs should also create encounters and challenges that reflect the themes of Red Sands. Whether it’s a combat encounter with a deadly sandstorm, a moral dilemma that forces the characters to choose between their own survival and the lives of others, or a puzzle that requires them to navigate the complexities of the desert environment, the encounters in a Red Sands campaign should reinforce the dark and atmospheric tone of the zine.

Creating Varied Encounters in Cursed Scroll 2: Red Sands

One of Red Sands’ strengths is the variety of encounters it offers. From combat with deadly monsters to social interactions with enigmatic NPCs, Red Sands provides a wealth of material for creating dynamic and varied encounters.

GMs should take advantage of this variety, creating encounters that challenge the players in different ways. Combat encounters should be designed to be challenging and dynamic, with monsters that have unique abilities and tactics. The presence of environmental hazards, such as sandstorms or extreme temperatures, can add an additional layer of difficulty to these encounters, forcing players to adapt their strategies on the fly.

In addition to combat encounters, GMs should also create opportunities for role-playing and negotiation. The factions within the Howling Caves, for example, offer rich opportunities for complex and dynamic interactions, where the characters’ choices have real and meaningful consequences. These interactions can add depth and complexity to the narrative, creating opportunities for character development and storytelling.

Environmental challenges should also be a key component of a Red Sands campaign. The setting of The Djurum is filled with dangerous terrain, ancient traps, and the lingering presence of dark magic. GMs should create challenges that require the characters to use their skills and resourcefulness to navigate these dangers, adding an element of tension and urgency to the campaign.

Utilizing Available Tools and Resources in Cursed Scroll 2: Red Sands

Red Sands provides a wealth of tools and resources for GMs, ensuring that they have everything they need to run a successful campaign. The hex map, encounter tables, and key locations in The Djurum provide a framework for creating dynamic and unpredictable adventures, while the new classes, spells, and monsters offer new tools for creating engaging and challenging encounters.

GMs should take advantage of these resources, using them to create a campaign that is rich in detail and atmosphere. The hex map, for example, allows GMs to easily create a dynamic and unpredictable world, where the characters are constantly facing new challenges and discoveries. The encounter tables provide a framework for creating varied and dynamic encounters, while the key locations in The Djurum offer rich opportunities for exploration and discovery.

In addition to the tools provided in Red Sands, GMs should also feel free to adapt and customize the material to suit the needs of their campaign. Red Sands is a flexible and versatile zine, and GMs are encouraged to take the concepts and mechanics introduced in the zine and make them their own.

In summary, running a successful Red Sands campaign requires careful planning and a deep understanding of the themes and mechanics introduced in the zine. By setting the tone, creating varied encounters, balancing challenges, and utilizing the available tools and resources, GMs can create a dynamic, immersive, and engaging experience that will challenge and thrill their players.

So What is the Final Verdict on Shadowdark RPG Cursed Scroll 2: Red Sands

Shadowdark RPG Cursed Scroll 2 – Red Sands is a must-have for any Shadowdark RPG fan looking to expand their game with new content and challenges. The zine offers a rich and detailed setting, new character classes, and a full-length adventure that will provide hours of thrilling gameplay. Whether you’re a GM looking for new material to challenge your players or a player eager to explore the deadly deserts of The Djurum, Red Sands has something to offer.

Red Sands is more than just a collection of new rules and adventures; it’s an invitation to step into a world of ancient mysteries, where every grain of sand tells a story, and every shadow could conceal a deadly threat. It’s a journey into the heart of the desert, where survival is never guaranteed, and where the choices you make could mean the difference between life and death.

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