Pyramid Review: Dynasties and Demagogues

Pyramid Review

Dynasties and Demagogues (for d20 System)

Published by Atlas Games

Written by Chris Aylott

160-page b&w hardcover; $28.95

Atlas Games has produced another outstanding d20 System supplement in its Penumbra line. Dynasties and Demagogues is a resource for DMs wanting to part from the more traditional fantasy roleplaying, where Dwarven clan histories are as elaborate as speeches come, and "kill them and take their stuff" is the order of the day. Possessing the necessary framework for a full-scale political campaign, where Dynasties and Demagogues really excels is as an alternative adventure, giving the party a break from storming lairs and fighting demons. Characters that normally exist as supporting specialists, such as rogues and bards, are suddenly pushed to the forefront of the party, and fighters soon find that negotiation and implied violence may be just as effective as actually using their blades.

For many DMs and groups, who are tired of fighting progressively tougher monsters as they advance in power, the power games and intricate webs of deception provide a welcome change. For many people, who aspire to have their characters known as kingmakers, or noble lords, rather than dragon slayers, Dynasties and Demagogues is the book the Epic Level Handbook should have been.

Dynasties and Demagogues is a 160-page, hardcover supplement of excellent quality. The binding is sturdy, having survived the frantic packing of a dorm room and a cross-country . . .

This article originally appeared in the second volume of Pyramid. See the current Pyramid website for more information.



Article publication date: May 23, 2003

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