The Cosmere RPG: A Deep Dive for GMs and sanderson Fans
The arrival of a tabletop role-playing game (TTRPG) set in Brandon Sanderson’s Cosmere universe is a momentous occasion for fans. However, the initial releases, while promising, leave some experienced GMs and longtime Cosmere enthusiasts wanting more. This article provides a thorough look at the current state of the Cosmere RPG, addressing its strengths, weaknesses, and what you can expect as a player or Game Master.
A GM’s Outlook: Missing pieces in the Foundation
As a veteran GM, one of the most surprising omissions in these first books is the lack of stat blocks for iconic characters like the Honorblades. You’d expect readily available stats for key figures within the setting. Furthermore, the absence of detailed rules for major antagonists – the unmade, or even the Shards themselves (Odium, Cultivation, Honor) – feels like a significant oversight.
This isn’t just about power levels; its about providing GMs with the tools to bring the richness of the Cosmere to life at your table. While future expansions promise deeper dives into other worlds and magic systems, a small “tease” of how Allomancy or AonDor might function would have been greatly appreciated. The “Burning Pewter” example in the Ghostblood Enforce enemy, functioning solely as a buff, doesn’t offer much insight into the nuances of different metal-based magic compared to Stormlight.
What the Cosmere RPG Does Offer
Despite these initial shortcomings, the Cosmere RPG offers a solid foundation for adventure. Here’s a breakdown of what you can currently access:
* Digital & Physical Books: The core rulebooks are available in both physical and digital formats, allowing you to build characters and run games immediately.
* Virtual Tabletop Integration: The Demiplane Virtual Tabletop service provides a seamless digital experience, including character sheets and game management tools.
* Supplemental Scenarios: CosmereRPGNexus.com offers pre-written scenarios and resources for creating custom high-level enemies.
* PDF Availability: If you prefer PDFs,you can purchase them through DriveThruRPG.
These resources are a great starting point, but remember that the system is still evolving.
Lore Goldmine: A Must-Have for Cosmere Fans
Even if you have no interest in playing a TTRPG, the Cosmere World Guide is an essential purchase for any dedicated Sanderson fan.It’s packed with lore and detailed data about Roshar, expanding your understanding of the universe.
However, as a TTRPG product, the initial offerings feel somewhat limited in terms of item variety and enemy options when compared to other established fantasy RPGs.it feels like a purposeful holding pattern, with much of the deeper content reserved for future Roshar-focused expansions.
Where to Find the Resources
Ready to dive in? Here’s where you can find everything you need:
* Physical Books Release: November 12th
* Digital Purchase: DriveThruRPG (https://www.drivethrurpg.com/en/publisher/6193/brotherwise-games)
* Virtual Tabletop: Demiplane (https://app.demiplane.com/nexus/cosmererpg)
Looking Ahead: A Promising Future
The Cosmere RPG has immense potential. While the initial releases aren’t perfect, they lay a solid groundwork for a truly immersive and engaging experience. Brotherwise Games is actively supporting the game with ongoing updates and supplemental materials.
For now, consider these first books a fantastic starting point, and anticipate a wealth of exciting content to come. As a GM, you may need to do some extra work to flesh out certain aspects of the setting, but the rewards – bringing the Cosmere to life with your friends – will be well worth the effort.