Casting the Runes: Occult Investigation in the World of M. R. James

Casting the Runes is a roleplaying game based on the works of M.R. James, the father of the modern British ghost story, and uses the GUMSHOE system for investigative RPGs. The unique character of James’s stories, and his own personality, inspire the game. Player-characters ( “Investigators”, under the guidance of the Game Master, proceed step by step to unearth the unearthly, researching the uncanny, the sinister, and the supernatural, against the backdrop of Edwardian Britain. Adventures are based on the classic ghost story, replete with “malevolence and terror, the glare of evil faces, ‘the stony grin of unearthly malice,’ pursuing forms in darkness, and ‘long-drawn, distant screams.’ Step back in time, and into a shadowy world , where demons are real, malevolent ghosts stalk the unwitting, and urbane, educated sorcerers pursue hideous knowledge in their bid to Cast the Runes... Casting the Runes is a complete roleplaying game, and needs only some six sided dice, a few friends, and a willingness to explore the shadowy corners of the Edwardian Era. This book has everything else you need to create Edwardian Investigators, learn about and compellingly convey the Edwardian Period, structure occult investigations, and present the supernatural. It includes two introductory scenarios: The Coptic Lamp and The House With the Brick Kiln, so you can begin your investigations without delay. My Bookmarks Contents Foreword Introduction Investigators Chapter Investigative Abilities Occupations & Social Roles Abilities Chapter General Abilities Scuffling Gameplay Chapter Pool Points Clues Tests & Contests Health & Stability Fighting Weapon Damage Combat Example Hazards Creatures Chapter Gaming Supernatural Beings Creatures & Entities Random Ghosts Deities & Demiurges Everyday Beasts Magic Chapter Spell Costs Spells Tomes & Grimoires Extraordinary Items The Edwardian Period Income & Class Prices The Spirit of the Age Campaigns Clue Types Scene Types Stock Situations Dealing with Authorities Insanity Clubs Scenario: The Coptic Lamp The House with the Brick Kiln Appendices Index Backers Character Sheet