RPG Blog Carnival October: Horror in Different RPG Settings

We’re participating in October’s RPG Blog Carnival, this month hosted by The Other Side blog.

Incorporating horror elements into RPGs can elevate the gaming experience by adding layers of tension, suspense, and emotion. Whether delving into dark dungeons, exploring the vastness of space, or navigating dangerous city streets, horror can be adapted to any genre. Today I want to look at how to infuse horror into various RPG settings like Dungeons & Dragons, Star Wars RPG, Warhammer 40,000, Blades in the Dark, and even settings you wouldn’t expect, like Mouse Guard.

In a classic fantasy setting like Dungeons & Dragons, horror can be introduced through sinister plotlines, eerie environments, and formidable adversaries. To unsettle players, use atmospheric descriptions of decrepit castles, haunted forests, and forgotten catacombs. Introducing elements like mind-altering enchantments or creatures from beyond can challenge the characters’ physical prowess and their sanity. By intertwining traditional fantasy with gothic horror tropes, you create a rich narrative that keeps players on edge.

To intensify horror in your D&D campaign, implement sanity mechanics reflect the mental strain on characters facing eldritch entities. Subvert familiar magic by introducing spells or items that have unpredictable or corrupting effects, keeping players uncertain about using their own abilities. Design encounters where moral choices have no clear right answer, forcing players to confront the consequences of their actions in a morally gray world.

The vast expanse of space offers a perfect backdrop for horror in the Star Wars RPG. Imagine the party responding to a distress signal from a derelict spaceship drifting in the Outer Rim. As they explore the darkened corridors, they discover that the crew has fallen victim to a mysterious and aggressive alien parasite. Tension builds as the players realize communication is cut off, and escape routes are compromised. Incorporate elements of isolation, the unknown, and high stakes to evoke fear. The contrast between the familiar Star Wars universe and the unexpected horror elements can create a memorable adventure.

Leverage the dark side of the Force to introduce psychological horror, such as visions that blur reality and illusion, affecting characters’ decisions. Create scenarios where isolation and the unknown heighten tension, and technological failures limit their resources. Incorporate adversaries like Sith spirits or creatures from dark side nexuses that cannot be defeated through conventional means, requiring creative problem-solving.

Warhammer 40,000 inherently possesses a grim and dark atmosphere, but emphasizing the horror aspects can intensify the experience. Focus on the oppressive nature of the universe, where hope is scarce, and dangers lurk everywhere. A campaign might involve investigating a Chaos-corrupted space hulk or confronting the insidious influence of Genestealer cults on an Imperial world. Highlight the psychological toll on characters facing the warp’s corrupting forces or witnessing the true horrors of the Tyranids. By delving deeper into the existential dread and despair prevalent in the setting, you amplify the horror elements and challenge players on multiple levels.

Emphasize the oppressive atmosphere by using the game’s corruption and insanity mechanics to depict the slow mental decline of characters exposed to the Warp. Introduce cosmic horror elements by unveiling truths about the universe that challenge the characters’ faith in the Imperium, such as encounters with entities beyond human comprehension. Design missions where the line between reality and the immaterium blurs, forcing players to question their perceptions and the reliability of their senses.

In Blades in the Dark, the city of Doskvol is already a place shrouded in darkness and supernatural occurrences. To incorporate horror, you can intensify the presence of ghosts, demons, and other malevolent entities. Perhaps the crew is hired to steal an artifact from a cult that worships an eldritch being, only to become the targets of both the cult and the creature itself. The combination of high-stakes heists with lurking supernatural threats creates a thrilling and suspenseful narrative.

Exploit the ever-present supernatural elements of Doskvol by intensifying ghostly encounters that can’t be resolved with normal abilities, pushing players to seek forbidden knowledge or risky alliances. Utilize the game’s stress and trauma system to reflect the psychological toll of their criminal activities compounded by horrific experiences. Create heists that involve cursed artifacts or haunted locations, where success may come at the cost of the crew’s sanity or soul.

At first glance, a game like Mouse Guard might seem an unlikely candidate for horror, given its charming and wholesome aesthetic. However, introducing horror elements can add unexpected depth. Consider scenarios where the mice must venture into territories blighted by a mysterious disease or confront predators that are more cunning and terrifying than ever before. The stark contrast between the small, vulnerable mice and overwhelming threats can evoke a sense of dread. Emphasize survival, the unknown, and the bravery required to face fears, transforming familiar settings into places of suspense and tension.

Subvert the typically wholesome setting by introducing environmental horrors like a devastating blight or a predator that exhibits unnatural behavior, emphasizing the vulnerability of the heroes. Incorporate survival horror mechanics where resources are scarce, and the simplest tasks become perilous, requiring careful planning and sacrifice. Use darkness and claustrophobic spaces, such as navigating underground tunnels, to amplify fear and force characters to rely on their instincts and teamwork under extreme stress.

Regardless of the setting, certain principles remain effective when integrating horror:

• Atmosphere: Use detailed descriptions to create a mood that evokes unease. Lighting, weather, sounds, and smells can all contribute to a haunting environment.
• Pacing: Control the flow of information and events to build suspense. Slow reveals and unexpected twists keep players engaged and anxious about what’s next.
• Themes: Incorporate universal horror themes like isolation, the unknown, or loss of control. Tailor these themes to fit the genre and setting of your game.
• Character Vulnerability: Highlight the characters’ limitations or weaknesses. Situations where they feel outmatched or unprepared heighten the sense of fear.
• Moral Dilemmas: Present difficult choices that have no clear right answer. The consequences of these decisions can haunt the players and add psychological depth.

Integrating horror into various RPG genres enriches the storytelling possibilities and offers players new challenges. By thoughtfully adapting horror elements to fit unique settings, you create unique and compelling experiences. As a game master, don’t hesitate to experiment with different techniques to unsettle and captivate your players. The thrill of facing the unknown and overcoming fear can lead to some of the most memorable moments at the gaming table.