Dive into Adventure: A Comprehensive Review of the Pirate Borg RPG
Ahoy, ye landlubbers and aspiring pirates! Embarking on a journey with Pirate Borg, we dive headfirst into the treacherous waters of the Dark Caribbean, where sea monsters lurk and myths come alive. This pirate RPG, seeping with Lovecraftian horror and naval combat, is no ordinary roleplaying game—it’s an adventure set during the Golden Age of Piracy, promising dark, supernatural escapades.
Set your sails to explore dungeons deep below the taverns, navigate treacherous vessels, and face off against horrific sea monsters. Pirate Borg isn’t just a game; it’s a toolbox for crafting your own legends on the high seas, using the Mork Borg system to fuel tales of mystery, brutality (and rum!), and survival against all odds.
With its roots firmly planted in the Mörk Borg ruleset, Pirate Borg offers a unique blend of eerie tales and turbulent seas, compatible with both the award-winning MÖRK BORG RPG and easily hacked for any tabletop RPG. You don’t need to have played Mörk Borg before, but if you have played, you will see a few familiar mechanics, and some new spins on them. This game, designed for those who dare to sail the haunted seas, is a gateway to untold stories filled with undead mariners and cursed treasures, available for plunder from Free League Publishing.
Core Gameplay and Mechanics
Alright, mates, let’s dive right into the heart of Pirate Borg and talk gameplay and mechanics, the real meat of this pirate feast! Trust me, it’s as juicy as a seared steak on the open sea.
Character Creation: You’ve got a smorgasbord of character classes to pick from – think Brute, Buccaneer, or even a spooky Haunted Soul (more on Haunted Souls later!). Rolling for your pirate’s abilities is a breeze with just a few tables, and before you know it, you’re decked out with starting gear, a weapon, and maybe even a fancy hat. It’s quick, painless, and you’re ready to face death (which happens a lot) in no time.
I think this is a primary strength of Free League. You don’t get bogged down in creating your character like other systems (I’m looking at you AD&D 2nd edition!). This means if you die..well..take a sip and churn another sheet out. It also means you can start newbies with little prep time.
Simple yet vast, character creation is a breeze with random tables guiding ye through attributes, gear, and peculiar flaws. Takes but 10-15 minutes, yet every pirate emerges unique.
Haunted Souls in Pirate Borg
In the world of Pirate Borg, Haunted Souls are spectral entities that inhabit the game’s universe, each with its own unique backstory and abilities. Not only can you encounter Haunted Souls in the game, but you can be one! There are two basic methods for becoming a Haunted Soul:
- Create one directly as your first character (GM Willing). If you go this route not only do you pick (or random) your Haunted Soul type (Yes, there are multiple types!) but you also see what class they are. It’s a two-fer!
- Create one upon death (GM Willing). When you die, you can come back as the undead! This way will let character play without trying to introduce a whole new pirate to the mix. I see this as a clever mechanic to keep the game flowing and even add more spice into the mix!
In the Navy!!
This reminded me of the difference between versions of Assassin’s Creed. Some of the ship combat design is well thought yet straight forward. I like how the system can be used so you are on a ship (along with all piratey things) but you don’t need to go on a ship to have an adventure. Although, to play Pirate Borg without as much as stepping foot on a ship might end you up in Davey Jones’ locker (the Monkee will feast!)
Naval Combat & Exploration: Ahoy, the real treasure of Pirate Borg! With over a dozen ships at your disposal, you’re set to conquer the seas. Combat is a slick affair, with the captain steering the ship into glory while the crew hustles with their duties. And let’s not forget the thrill of exploring uncharted islands and deciphering treasure maps. The game’s sandbox nature means you’re in for a unique adventure every time you play.
Ship-to-ship combat is a beast of its own. Think miniatures game on the high seas, with hex grids for tracking and character sheets for ships. Aye, your vessel has stats and abilities, making naval encounters a thrilling affair.
The Dread of Ship Combat: Here’s where the rubber meets the road, or rather, where the cannonball meets the ship. Combat is a high-stakes game of rolling d20s for attacks and defenses, with a hefty dose of strategy thrown in during naval battles. Expect to lose a few mates along the way, as character mortality is as common as finding rum at a pirate’s lair. But hey, that’s the life of a pirate, right? High risk, high reward! By the way, there is a modifier used for PC vs Ship, meaning if a player character takes a gun and shoots a ship, not a lot of damage is done. However, if a ship shoots a cannon at a character, well…
We’re out of Rum?! NOOOOO!!!
- Alchemy, Sea Shanties, and Devil’s Luck (oh my!):
- Alchemy ain’t just for landlubber wizards; Pirate Borg introduces an alchemy system for concocting potions or maybe even poisons, or even better–Grog n Rum!
- Sea shanties offer more than a morale boost; they provide mechanical benefits, proving once again that a pirate’s best weapon might just be their voice. Like seriously–there are sea shanties that you have to sing to provide boosts or banes!
- Lastly, the Devil’s Luck mechanic allows for re-rolling dice, dealing max damage, or dodging critical hits, proving that sometimes, the sea gods do favor the bold (or the lucky).
So, batten down the hatches and prepare for a game that’s as unforgiving as the sea itself but rewarding for those daring enough to embrace its chaos. With Pirate Borg, ye aren’t just playing a game; ye’re living the pirate life, risks and all!
The Sandbox and the Random Gens
Stepping into the world of Pirate Borg, you’re not just dipping your toes into some lukewarm kiddie pool of pirate adventures; oh no, you’re plunging headfirst into the chilling depths of the Dark Caribbean. This ain’t your grandma’s pirate tale, folks. We’re talking a setting so grim, even the bravest of souls might think twice before setting sail. Imagine a world where the Golden Age of Piracy meets a nightmare buffet of undead sailors, cursed riches, and eldritch horrors that would make even Davy Jones lock his locker and throw away the key.
- The Curse of Skeleton Point & Black Coral Bay Adventures: These aren’t just any old treasure hunts. “The Curse of Skeleton Point” is like the ultimate pirate sandbox, offering nearly 40 pages of challenges, memorable NPCs, and a vibe so hardcore it’ll have you checking under your bed for zombie sailors. And “Black Coral Bay”? Picture this: supernatural beasts, mysterious temples, and an open-world tropical island that’s as inviting as it is deadly. Both adventures serve up a full plate of high-seas hijinks and horror, perfect for both newbies and seasoned pirate RPG veterans.
- Random Generators Galore: Ever wanted to captain a ship named “The Scurvy Seadog” or find yourself hauling a cargo of, I don’t know, haunted coconuts? Pirate Borg’s got you covered with random generators for vessel class and names, mundane and special cargo, and even plot twists that’ll make M. Night Shyamalan nod in approval. It’s like the game’s saying, “Hey, why settle for a mundane adventure when you can have an epic one?” Plus, with the theater of the mind gameplay, your imagination’s the limit. So, grab your hat, polish your hook, and get ready to face off against hordes of zombie sailors and eldritch terrors in search of Ash, the ultimate pirate prize.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Diving into Pirate Borg is akin to setting sail on choppy, monster-infested waters; it’s a whirlwind of high stakes and lurking dangers, blended with a hefty dose of supernatural intrigue. From the riveting character creation to the adrenaline-pumping naval combat and dark, haunting visuals, the game carves out a niche in the RPG realm that’s unmistakably thrilling. It embodies the perilous allure of piracy while wrapping players in a cloak of shadowy tales and cursed treasure. Through every cannon blast and eerie encounter, the game reinforces the grim, yet electric atmosphere of the Dark Caribbean, ensuring that players remain glued to their seats, eyes wide with anticipation.
What makes Pirate Borg not just an RPG but an immersive experience is its ability to balance the brutality of pirate life with the captivating essence of dark fantasy. The game invites players to not just witness, but partake in a world where every choice could lead to riches or ruin.
In the end, by the powers of the Elder Gods, Pirate Borg does more than just carry the torch from Mörk Borg; it lights up the cannon for a whole new adventure. With its more detailed mechanics and captivating themes, it’s a treasure trove waiting to be explored. So, grab yer compass and set sail into the unknown, for Pirate Borg promises a voyage like no other. Of course, I might be biased since our logo and ratings system would fit right in the game.
(4.5 / 5)
Gaming
Stygian: Reign of the Old Ones (2019), a Game Review
Stygian: Reign of the Old Ones (2019) is a tactical role-playing video game developed by Cultic Games, evoking Lovecraftian horror.
Stygian: Reign of the Old Ones (2019) is a tactical role-playing video game developed by Cultic Games, evoking Lovecraftian and cosmic horror. Published by Fulqrum Publishing, this game is available through Linux, macOS, and Windows. This review will cover the $19.99 Steam release.
The Great Old Ones have awakened, exiling Arkham after the events of Black Day. Design your character and face the abominations of Arkham. Explore the 1920s through a Lovecraftian aesthetic as you unravel the secrets that plague Arkham, facing unknowable cosmic horror and malicious abominations.
What I Like Stygian: Reign of the Old Ones
The depth of character creation starts the game off on the right foot. While appearance has various options, the game provides greater variety in motives, age, and origins, adding different gameplay elements. For example, age reflects lived experience and physical competency. The younger your character, the less experienced but more physically capable. This dynamic requires trial and error to find the best choice for you.
The paper cutout art provides a unique interpretation of a familiar (but stylish) Lovecraftian aesthetic. While not the most haunting execution of the Lovecraftian, it still manages to unsettle and unnerve while maintaining visual interest. That said, if the style doesn’t suit the player’s taste, Stygian: Reign of the Old Ones might leave that player wanting.
While I find the story engaging and the mysteries worth exploring, there’s a massive caveat to that claim. Regardless, if you fancy the Lovecraftian, few care as deeply and express as much knowledge of the genre as Cultic Games in this installment. This love and knowledge shines through in the often subtle allusions and references to the expanded universe. It may earn its place as the most Lovecraftian game out there.
The characters vary in interest and likability, but there’s usually something about them to add to the overall mystery. Naturally, this remains most evident in the companions that accompany the player on their journey.
In terms of horror, Stygian: Reign of the Old Ones achieves notable success. Despite the subjective points of aesthetics, the game brings out the most unsettling and uncomfortable elements of Lovecraftian and cosmic horror.
Tropes, Triggers, and Considerations
With an understanding of the Lovecraftian comes the question of how to deal with racism. Most properties try to remove this context, but Stygian: Reign of the Old Ones recognizes the text and era (the 1920s) with caricatures such as a lunatic in blackface. I won’t say it fully explores these toxic elements, but it’s not painted in a positive light.
Insanity and mental illness play a large role in the mechanics of the game, such as becoming a key component of casting spells. Loosely related, drug addiction and usage are mechanics with varying degrees of necessity depending on your build.
If these are deal breakers, perhaps give Stygian: Reign of the Old Ones a skip.
What I Dislike about Stygian: Reign of the Old Ones
In terms of story, this game is unfinished, leaving many plots, quests, and arcs with unsatisfying cliffhangers. My understanding is that Cultic Games planned to finish the game, but money ran out, and the focus shifted to an upcoming prequel. I imagine the goal is to use this new game to support a continuation. But that doesn’t change the unfinished state of Stygian: Reign of the Old Ones. The beginning and middle remain filled with content, but the final act (loosely stated) falls monstrously short.
While this unfinished state mostly affects content, I did run into game-breaking bugs. From my understanding, these bugs completely hinder progress. Most are avoidable, but some are unlucky draws.
It’s these points that make this a challenge to recommend, requiring the potential player’s careful consideration.
Final Thoughts
Stygian: Reign of the Old Ones accomplishes what many games fail, bringing to life the Lovecraftian. Unfortunately, this game falls short at the end and leaves game-breaking bugs as potential deterrents for full enjoyment. If what you read above entices you, it may be worth the investment. However, it’s unfair to recommend this game within its compromised state.
(2 / 5)
Gaming
Ashen (2018), a Game Review
Ashen (2018) is a souls-like action RPG developed by A44 and published by Annapurna Interactive available across all platforms.
Ashen (2018) is a souls-like action RPG game developed by A44 and published by Annapurna Interactive. This game provides a single-player and multiplayer experience with passive multiplayer mechanics. For this review, I am discussing the 39.99 Steam release, but it’s also available in the Epic Game Store, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and PlayStation.
In this bitter world, your character seeks to make a home for yourself and others. This goal requires you to fight for every inch of land, building connections and alliances to maintain a thriving village. Venture further to make the world a more hospitable place, but know the further you travel, the greater the threats.
What I Like about Ashen
In 2017, Ashen earned a nomination for the Game Critics Awards’ “Best Independent Game.” It would later earn several more nominations in 2019. At the National Academy of Video Game Trade Reviewers Awards, it received nominations for “Game, Original Role Playing” and “Original Light Mix Score, New IP.” It was nominated for “Most Promising New Intellectual Property” at the SXSW Gaming Awards. Finally, at the Golden Joystick Awards, it earned a nomination for “Xbox Game of the Year.”
The multiplayer experience remains essential for Ashen, focusing on you and a partner venturing together to explore an open-world environment. However, the single-player experience is my focus and the game accounts for this gameplay. Ashen often pairs you with a villager who helps with the challenges.
The art style remains a plus throughout the gameplay. Though muted in colors and lacking finer details, the style creates a unique world that allows players to get lost along their journey. If the aesthetic doesn’t evoke that curiosity, then Ashen becomes hard to recommend.
Vagrant’s Rest and the inhabitants remain a strong incentive to continue on your journey. Seeing the progression of the town and building connections with the people provide the most rewarding experience.
In terms of horror, the art style often evokes an eerie atmosphere. However, I won’t go so far as to say the game is haunting. Instead, it evokes emotions that can unsettle and unnerve the gamer.
Thoughts and Considerations
The souls-like influence remains straightforward. Progression requires the player to defeat enemies and collect currency for weapons or certain item upgrades. Ashen simplifies and focuses its gameplay, reducing variety to polish its choices. The gameplay remains fluid, with a few hiccups that might be a computer issue.
If you prefer magic or defined classes, the gameplay doesn’t enable this variety. Item upgrades and choices define your playstyle, allowing most items to be playable at any stage of gameplay.
Weapons make a greater difference in playstyle. Most of these differences are self-evident (i.e. blunt weapons are slower but stun), but upgrades make any weapon viable. You pick an aesthetic and function, sticking with it until something better catches your eye.
What I Dislike about Ashen
As mentioned, the game had some technical issues. I often assume this to be my computer, but I did note a few others mentioning similar issues. The gameplay remains fluid, so take this comment as a small point of consideration.
With limited roleplay options, liking the characters or art style remains essential for your time and money investment. As mentioned, the game doesn’t hold the variety of FromSoftware, which means their selling point comes from that unique art style and world.
Passive multiplayer is a major part of the marketing for Ashen. While I don’t mind this mechanic, 6 years after release reduces the overall impact. When so few wanderers appear in your game, it’s hard to see the overall appeal.
Final Thoughts
Ashen delivers a highly specialized souls-like experience, preferring to perfect what it can at the cost of variety. If the art appeals and the thirst for a souls-like has you wanting, Ashen stands as a strong contender. However, there are many contenders which make this hard to overtly recommend.
(3 / 5)
Gaming
I Have No Mouth, and I Must Scream (1995), a Game Review
I Have No Mouth, and I Must Scream (1995) is a point-and-click horror game based on Harlan Ellison’s award-winning short story.
I Have No Mouth, and I Must Scream (1995) is a point-and-click horror game based on Harlan Ellison’s award-winning short story of the same name. Developed by Cyberdreams and The Dreamers Guild, this adaptation brings a new perspective to a familiar story. I heard of free purchasing opportunities for this game but cannot verify the quality. For this review, I played the 5.99 Steam release.
Play as one of the remaining humans on earth: Gorrister, Benny, Ellen, Nimdok, and Ted. Each faces a unique challenge from their common torturer, the AI supercomputer known as AM. Chosen by AM to endure torment, these challenges require the participants to face their greatest failures and tragedies.
What I like about I Have No Mouth, and I Must Scream
Having experienced this story a few times, Harlan Ellison provides the most substantive execution of his vision and moral questions in this game. While all have individual merits, I assume the added content and context better dive into the relevant points he hoped to explore. He also played the voice of AM, giving us the emotional complexity of the machine as he saw it.
As the above comment indicates, I Have No Mouth, and I Must Scream remains a faithful adaptation with only one notable change. While that one change does reflect in that character’s journey, it uses that opportunity to the fullest. Where the short story left room for potentially inaccurate interpretations of the characters, this added context makes us better understand them.
The game’s writing remains a selling point for this story-driven experience. It dives further into the lore of the human characters and even allows further development of AM in the process. There are many ways to progress, and the multiple characters allow gamers to adventure further if stuck. That said, progressing individual characters to complete their journey remains essential for the true ending and experience.
As a point-and-click game made in 1995, I Have No Mouth, and I Must Scream holds up well. In many ways, it pushed the genre in its time with dynamic storytelling and game features. Harlan Ellison was someone who pushed boundaries to challenge himself and others. He saw the gaming industry as another opportunity to evoke story-driven art, a focus reflected here.
Thoughts, Triggers, and Considerations
I Have No Mouth, and I Must Scream adapts a dark and bleak story from an author notorious for his dark material. This game is no exception to that standard. Mental illness, sexual assault, genocide, and torture envelop the game. These elements are handled with attention but remain triggering to those sensitive to such dark material.
If these are deal breakers, I Have No Mouth, and I Must Scream will likely earn a skip.
What I Dislike, or Considerations, for I Have No Mouth, and I Must Scream
While the short story remains a haunting example of fiction in every sentence, I Have No Mouth, and I Must Scream doesn’t evoke the same tension. It allows room to breathe or refocus on another character, which reduces the horror such a story evokes. While the characters participate in their torment, the loss of agency and hopelessness doesn’t translate in the execution.
Some mechanical and gameplay issues are noteworthy. For example, the saving mechanic remains dated, piling up if you save often or for specific reasons. Most of the mechanical issues stem from outdated UI from a gamer of a more modern era. Play it long enough, and elements start to click, but it needs that user investment.
Point-and-click caters to a niche audience, so modern gaming audiences aren’t inherently the demographic. The puzzle-solving and gameplay won’t win you over if the genre isn’t to your taste. Even within the genre, many of the puzzles remain challenging. For fans of the genre, this likely earns a positive merit. For those looking to continue the short story, this challenge will prove an obstacle.
Final Thoughts
I Have No Mouth, and I Must Scream provides a new opportunity for the award-winning story to reach new audiences and continue to grow. Not satisfied with repeating his story in a new medium, Harlan Ellison expands this bleak world through the point-and-click game. While not as haunting as the short story, this game provides the most context and development of any adaptation before it.
(4 / 5)
