A Review of the Role Playing Game Supplement Mutation Artifacts

Mutation Artifacts is a role playing game supplement published by Skirmisher Publishing. The supplement is covered by the Open Game License and some parts are considered to be Open Game Content as a result.

The supplement is available as an eight-page PDF from DriveThruRPG for $0.99, though it was purchased at a reduced price as part of a bundle. One page is the front cover, one page is blank, one the Open Game License and one is an ad.

The opening paragraph explains that mutation artefacts are those created by those before the cataclysm and by wasteland dwellers to modify mutations; those created prior to the Fall are far more effective at improving mutations. Any bonuses given are for current era technology unless otherwise stated and no prices are given.

The different kinds of devices follow. The mutations listed are those from the Mutant Future book unless otherwise stated. Each type of device describes the mutation it affects, the effect the device has when used, and its weight. What’s described isn’t individual artefacts, such as found in the Unique Superscience Artifacts issues of Wisdom from the Wastelands, but broad categories, such as coats, lenses and sponges, 24 in all, each of which has a brief paragraph description.

Mutation Artifacts in Review

The PDF lacks bookmarks and at this length doesn’t need them. Navigation is fine. The text maintains a two-column format and appeared to be free of errors. There are a number of appropriate colour clip art illustrations for some of the devices. Presentation is adequate.

Though it’s not outright listed as being Mutant Future compatible, the supplement is effectively designed for it. It could be used with other systems, but these would also need mutations, and in broadly similar categories to those in Mutant Future, in order for these items to be used. There are a host of minor items that can have a variable, and sometimes significant, effect on mutation effects. These don’t have drawbacks to use, and often don’t have limited use either, making them potentially a bit too powerful in the long run than they might initially appear. Mutation Artifacts can be found by clicking here.