A Review of the Role Playing Game Supplement The Wildwood

The Wildwood is a role playing game supplement written and published by Michael Brown. This is an adventure for Cepheus Engine and as such is covered by the Open Game License with some parts considered to be Open Game Content as a result.

The supplement is available as a ten-page PDF from DriveThruRPG for $1.50 but was purchased at a reduced price during a sale. One page is the front cover, two the front matter and two the Open Game License.

The opening paragraphs explain that this is a short adventure for Cepheus Engine and similar and how the Referee may alter the throw mechanic.

The Referee’s Overview explains that the characters are contacted by representatives of a scientific foundation studying the ecology of a world run by radical environmentalists after a scientist examining unusual changes in creatures disappeared.

The Background gives information on the world and the Player’s Information explains what they are told. The Referee’s Information explains what is currently happening. It seems illegal activities have triggered overproduction of an enzyme that has turned an ordinarily cute lifeform into a bloodthirsty creature. The characters will have to find the scientist whilst avoiding death at the claws of a rampaging lifeform or the company that accidentally caused this and wants to keep it covered up. Finally, the NPCs and creatures are detailed.

The Wildwood in Review

The PDF lacks bookmarks and these are not really needed. Navigation is okay. The text maintains a single column format, in a 6″x9″ layout that is unusual for the published, and appeared to be free of errors. This is one of the no-frills adventures and there are no illustrations. Presentation is as expected.

The characters have a couple of problems with both the corporation and the lifeforms. In addition, killing the lifeforms is prohibited on the planet, yet they are not going to have a choice. It’s said that presumably the government will be understanding in this case, but the Referee could always decide that they aren’t, if they want to be annoying. The Wildwood is a decent little adventure, with an unusual situation to deal with, and it can be found by clicking here.