13th Age

It uses the same d20 core, but it reduces bookkeeping and prioritises storytelling. Skills are replaced with broad backgrounds, allowing you to roll based on what suits your character rather than a lengthy list. Classes offer clear, impactful options that are quick to read at the table. Combat intensifies each round, making battles conclude sooner and feel more decisive. The setting incorporates relationships with influential figures that propel plots from session to session. Interested in exploring alternatives? You can compare systems here: see other game systems.

No. If you can roll a d20 and add a number, you’re good to go. A professional Game Master teaches the basics in minutes and provides quick character creation or pre-made characters. The game uses straightforward language for powers and checks. On your turn, you will move, take an action, and describe what that looks like. The emphasis is on bold choices, not rules trivia. New players settle in quickly, and experienced players can jump straight into creative tactics.

Icons are the key players in the setting, such as a dragon queen, an archmage, or a crusader. Your character begins with a few relationships with these figures, which can be positive, conflicted, or negative. At the start of a session, you roll for those ties. The results provide the Game Master with material for allies, favours, rivalries, and complications. This means your connections actively influence scenes, clues, and twists. Politics and power dynamics become integral to the story without requiring extensive lore to remember.

At the start of round two, a large d6 comes into play showing 1. Each new round, it increases by 1, up to a maximum of 6. Heroes add that number to their attack rolls, and many abilities depend on it. Enemies almost never gain any benefit. The bonus encourages bold choices, helps to conclude fights before they drag on, and creates memorable moments for heroes in the later rounds. Your turn remains focused on a few clear options, ensuring that even large battles are engaging and easy to follow.

Your One Unique Thing is a statement that distinguishes your character, such as being the only dwarf who hears the earth sing. It doesn’t grant power; instead, it provides a narrative hook for the Game Master to utilise. Backgrounds replace a fixed skill list. You define a few broad past experiences, allocate points, and roll those when they are relevant to the task. This approach keeps the rules light, encourages creativity, and ensures your character’s history is significant during challenges and investigations.

Yes. With two players, the Game Master adjusts encounters and can introduce an ally to ensure you get your share of the spotlight without dragging things out. Three to five players is ideal for quick turns and diverse tactics. Six players can work, provided there's a focus on pacing and simplified monster selections. The system’s straightforward maths and clear class roles help keep everyone involved. Your Game Master will manage scenes so that each player has significant moments in both roleplay and combat.

Sessions use 13th Age 1st Edition. Your Game Master runs the core rules and, if your group wishes, may include options or creatures from official expansions by agreement. For one-shots, expect pregenerated characters or simplified creation. For campaigns, you can add material as you progress, with clear guidance on tone and complexity. To see who is available and their approach, browse our Game Masters.