Michael R. Underwood

Candela Obscura Walk-Through (Patreon)

Published:

2023-05-27 19:52:29

Imported:

2026-06

Tags:

game design rpgs ttrpgs

haven't archived this post yet. have a subscription? use the importer!

Content

My video breakdown of the rules in the quickstart for Critical Role's new horror RPG Candela Obscura is now on YouTube.

I talk through the core mechanics, how characters and actions work, and things to keep in mind playing games inspired by Blades in the Dark (as Candela Obscura is). There's some interesting departures from the Forged in the Dark mold and some promising streamlining work for shorter campaigns and a lighter lift for players, with more responsibility falling on the GM (more like in most traditional rpgs).

If you're curious about the system and want more of a deep dive than the short how-to-play video made by CR, check it this video to get my thoughts!

Are you excited about Candela Obscura or any of Critical Role's other upcoming games? Let me know so I can keep that in mind for future videoes/essays.

Files

Previews only

Analyzing Critical Role's New RPG (Candela Obscura Quickstart)

Mike walks through the design and mechanics of Critical Role's forthcoming horror rpg Candela Obscura, the first game using their Illuminated Worlds system. Mike talks about the strong parallels between the game and the Forged in the Dark design tradition (based on Blades in the Dark by John Harper) and shares advice for potential players and GM based on their experience as a veteran Forged in the Dark GM/player. Candela Obscura Publisher: Darrington Press Lead Game Design: Spenser Starke and Rowan Hall Illuminated Worlds Game Design: Stras Acimovic and Layla Adelman Watch future streams live at Twitch.tv/TurboTango and support Mike's writing and streaming at Patreon.com/MichaelRUnderwood or follow him on Twitter @MikeRUnderwood