Quick answer

The Revenant Society Core Book is a new tabletop roleplaying game from Van Ryder Games that uses the Powered by the Apocalypse system, offering narrative-driven play with a focus on group and character-specific Moves. It is best for players who enjoy story-first games and don't mind learning a slightly different dice resolution system.

What makes The Revenant Society different from other PbtA games?

Like many Powered by the Apocalypse games, The Revenant Society relies on 2D6 rolls for its Moves, with outcomes ranging from success to partial success to miss. What sets it apart is the setting and the role of the Fate Weaver, who interprets results in terms of gained or lost information, creating a unique tension. The game includes both group Moves and character-specific ones, so your choices matter more than just your dice roll.

What the core book includes (and what it doesn't)

The Revenant Society Core Book gives you the full rules, setting, and character options needed to start playing. However, because it's a single core book, you won't find separate supplements or adventure modules at launch. If you prefer a complete, all-in-one starting point, this is it. But if you want a lot of pre-written scenarios or expansions, you may need to wait for future releases.

Your decision rules for The Revenant Society Core Book

  • Do you enjoy narrative-first RPGs?: If you prefer story and character development over tactical combat, The Revenant Society's PbtA system is a strong fit. The game rewards creative thinking and roleplay.
  • Are you comfortable with partial success mechanics?: The game uses a 2D6 system where partial successes are common. If you like the tension of not always fully succeeding, this system works well. If you prefer clear pass/fail outcomes, you might find it frustrating.
  • Do you want a complete starter experience?: The core book includes everything to start playing. If you want a single purchase that covers rules, setting, and characters, this is it. If you need pre-written adventures or expansions, you may need to wait for future releases.

Product facts

  • The Revenant Society Core Book: The Revenant Society Core Book is a tabletop roleplaying game inspired by the Powered by the Apocalypse system. You roll 2D6 for your Moves, with group and character-specific options that have success, partial success, or miss outcomes. This means the game is narrative-focused and encourages creative problem-solving rather than just combat. The Fate Weaver's interpretation of partial successes adds a layer of storytelling that many RPG fans enjoy.

    The Revenant Society Core Book

    The Revenant Society Core Book

Who should buy this?

Best for

  • Players who enjoy narrative-driven, story-first RPGs like other PbtA games
  • Fans of Van Ryder Games looking for a new tabletop RPG experience
  • Game masters who like interpreting partial successes to create dramatic moments

Not for

  • Players who prefer tactical, rules-heavy combat systems
  • Those who want a large library of pre-written adventures or expansions at launch