The Magical World of Eventyr

Welcome to Eventyr, a realm of boundless adventure and intrigue, meticulously crafted for your Dungeons & Dragons escapades. Inspired by the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand, Eventyr is a sandbox of possibilities, where every decision you make shapes the world around you. From navigating bustling cities and mysterious floating islands to combating goblin threats and navigating the socio-political games of wealthy families, Eventyr pulses with life. Amidst the glamour and grandeur, darker truths lurk in the shadows, with the lingering presence of slavery and the rise of piracy as a form of rebellion. In this world, power is a game, and Coins of Favor, a unique currency, can change your fate in an instant. Eventyr is not just a setting; it's a living, breathing world that evolves with your actions, where every session is a new chapter in an epic saga that you help write. Your adventure awaits in Eventyr.

QUICK FACTS

There is no central government or monarchy in Eventyr, each settlement is run with its own unique hierarchy and structure.

Noble families are self-proclaimed nobility with wealth coming from land, influence, trade, or some other area they have a chokehold over. In practice, they are oligarchs ruling over a particular section of the country.

There is a substantial Goblin overpopulation problem and Goblin raids are increasingly common.

Slavery (trafficking of all races) is a significant issue and is combatted by people who call themselves "pirates" who attack slaving ships and camps and free captured people.

Due to its divided nature, maps of Eventyr are incredibly rare and typically only available on a regional level. Most of these maps are inaccurate, but are highly valued nonetheless.

Not much is known about the lands surrounding Eventyr and rarely does anyone undertake the dangerous journey to another continent.

CHARACTER CREATION

Whether you are playing with me in a West Marches style drop-in campaign, a one-shot set in the world of Eventyr, or another game of mine, you'll need a character!

If you want to use D&D Beyond to create your character, let me know and I'll send you the campaign link so that you can access all the sourcebooks.

Creating a character for Eventyr is an exciting journey into a world rich with history, culture, and conflict. As you begin, consider the unique aspects of this setting and how they might shape your character's backstory and motivations. There is a lot of information included in this character creation guide, but my goal throughout is to help you create a character that you are excited about and provide them with a deep motivation and rich backstory that will help make our game together even more fun and engaging!

No matter what character you choose or where you want to send them, there's a few things that you'll need to know before we get started:

MOTIVATION

Understanding your character's motivations in Dungeons & Dragons is a crucial part of the game. It not only helps you as a player to make decisions and guide your character's actions, but it also aids me, as the Dungeon Master, in crafting a compelling and immersive narrative that resonates with your character's personal journey. A well-defined motivation can be the driving force behind your character's adventures, providing a sense of purpose and direction. In our game, having a clear motivation for your character is essential. It's not just a suggestion, it's a requirement - but one that will make your gaming experience all the more rewarding.

Here's a chart that defines some possible character motivations (and if you don't want to choose one, you can simply roll!):

ARCHETYPES

When creating your D&D character, it's important to consider different character archetypes. These archetypes can serve as a foundation for your character, providing a clear role for them within the party and a starting point for their personality, skills, and backstory. However, remember that these archetypes are just a starting point - feel free to mix and match elements from different archetypes, or to create your own unique character concept.

Here are some classic character archetypes to consider:

The Hero: This is the brave and noble character who always strives to do what's right. They might be a knight, a paladin, or a warrior with a strong sense of justice. They're often the party's main combatant, but they also provide moral guidance and leadership.
The Rogue: This character is a trickster, a thief, or a con artist. They're quick, cunning, and often have a shady past. They're excellent at stealth, deception, and finding and disabling traps.
The Scholar: This character is intelligent and knowledgeable. They might be a wizard, a cleric, or a bard who uses their knowledge to solve problems and assist the party. They're often the party's main source of information about the world and its lore.
The Healer: This character is compassionate and nurturing, dedicated to healing the wounded and protecting their allies. They're often a cleric or a druid, using their magic to keep the party healthy and safe.
The Outcast: This character is a loner, often with a tragic past. They might be a ranger, a warlock, or a rogue who prefers to keep to themselves. They're often mysterious and secretive, but they can also be fiercely loyal to their friends.
The Jester: This character is a source of comic relief, often with a cheerful and optimistic personality. They might be a bard, a rogue, or a sorcerer who uses their wit and humor to lighten the mood and boost morale.
The Mystic: This character is spiritual and wise, often with a deep connection to the magical or divine. They might be a druid, a cleric, or a monk who seeks enlightenment and uses their powers to help others.

Remember, these are just a few examples of the many possible character archetypes. Don't be afraid to think outside the box and create a character that's truly unique!

PLACE OF ORIGIN

Crafting a unique and compelling backstory is one of the most enjoyable aspects of Dungeons and Dragons. If you want your character's backstory to be tied to the unique world of Eventyr, here are some notes about locations and factions that could provide inspiration.

Barrwater

Barrwater is a sprawling metropolis, its streets teeming with life and echoing with the clamor of commerce. The city's towering walls and narrow, winding streets lend it a distinct noir vibe, a stark contrast to the grandeur of its wealthy districts. Characters hailing from Barrwater could have a myriad of origin stories. They could be street urchins who grew up in the city's shadowy alleys or festering "undercity", learning to navigate its underbelly and survive its dangers. They could be merchants or artisans, their lives intertwined with the city's bustling markets and thriving industries. They could even be nobles, born into wealth and privilege, yet perhaps yearning for something more. Or they might be workers in the city's controversial "indentured servitude" system, dreaming of freedom and a better life. Each character from Barrwater carries with them a piece of the city's complex tapestry, their stories as diverse as the city itself. Character Considerations: A great place for a character with an urban and big city background. Elves have a huge section of the city - they are very exclusive. The undercity has organized crime and monster fighting. There are many smaller neighborhoods and enclaves that can accommodate any character type. Read More>>

Appletun

Appletun is the low-fantasy equivalent of Hollywood, a city of glamour, drama, and unending spectacle. Its beautiful inhabitants, pristine beaches, and the largest Bard University on the continent make it a hub of culture and entertainment. Characters from Appletun could be aspiring actors, their dreams as vast as the city's skyline, or they could be scholars from the Bard University, their minds filled with music and poetry. They might be wealthy elites, their lives a whirlwind of parties and social events, or they could be workers in the city's thriving entertainment industry, their lives touched by the city's glamour yet also aware of its darker undercurrents. Players could have backgrounds as skilled con artists or thieves, using the city's bustling entertainment industry as a cover for their illicit activities, or they could be spies, their roles in the city's high-profile events providing them with access to valuable information and influential individuals. Appletun is a city of dreams, and its children carry those dreams with them, wherever their adventures may lead. Character Considerations: A great place for bards, athletes, and vapid reality TV stars. Read More>>

Bayside

Bayside, on the other hand, is a city of intellect and innovation. Known as the home of venture capitalism and an academic hub, it's a place where ideas are as valuable as gold. It is also home to the world's largest bank, the notoriously difficult to crack Bank of Bayside. Characters from Bayside could be ambitious entrepreneurs, their minds buzzing with business ideas and plans for the future. They could be scholars, their lives dedicated to the pursuit of knowledge, or they could be inventors, their hands skilled at turning ideas into reality. They might even be activists, their hearts set on challenging the status quo and making the world a better place. Players could also be involved in the city's darker underbelly as savvy white-collar criminals, exploiting the city's thriving venture capitalism for their own gain, or they could be undercover agents, using their academic connections to gather intelligence and influence the city's power structures. Bayside is a city of thought and progress, and its children carry that spirit of innovation and change with them on their journeys. Character Considerations: Great place for academic characters, entrepreneur merchants, and anti-slave pirates. Read More >>

Elven Enclave

Elven enclaves in Eventyr are serene, secluded communities dedicated to the worship of Rillifane Rallathil, the god of nature. Nestled amidst the verdant wilderness, these enclaves are a testament to the Elves' deep spiritual connection with nature and their devotion to their deity. Characters hailing from these enclaves could be devout clerics or druids, their lives dedicated to the service of Rillifane Rallathil. They could be guardians of the enclave, skilled in both combat and magic, their duty to protect their community from threats. Or they might be scholars, their minds filled with ancient lore and sacred texts, their hearts yearning to explore the world beyond their enclave. Regardless of their path, characters from these enclaves carry with them a deep reverence for nature and a strong sense of duty towards their community. Character Considerations: A great place to come from if you are an Elf or descended from Elves, especially if getting kicked out of one fueled your character's juicy backstory.

Emervale

A quaint town situated at the crossing of two major roads. The Western half of the city looks to be more impoverished, and the East more established. There is a central business district that can be seen splitting the two economic zones. Audchild Sons publishing is the major industry. Annual festival called the "Festival for the Rest of Ya'll" draws thousands of visitors every summer. Character Considerations: A good place for a naive small-town yokel.

Shade Islands

An island with a city of the same name. A place of mystique and magic, the Shade Islands are a chain of floating landmasses that form the heart of intrigue and enchantment in Eventyr. Suspended in the sky, these islands are a testament to the extraordinary, defying the laws of nature and gravity. Character Considerations: A great place for an unusual species and backstory. Also a great place for characters deep in political intrigue or descended from nobility. Read More>>

Vihon Reach

Vihon Reach, the ancestral home of the Aarakocra, is a cliff city nestled in the northern mountains of Eventyr. Its structures, carved into the cliff face, offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. The city is known for the Aerie, a grand temple, and the Skyreach Market, a bustling trade center. Despite its isolated location, the Aarakocra maintain connections with the rest of Eventyr, serving as messengers and scouts. Vihon Reach stands as a testament to the Aarakocra's resilience and adaptability, a beacon of hope and strength in the face of adversity. Character considerations: Only inhabited by Aarakocra. Aarakocra live elsewhere, but usually have visited Vihon Reach and have ties to the city.

Villages or Hamlets

Scattered throughout Eventyr are countless small villages and hamlets, each with its unique charm and character. Life in these settlements is often simple yet fulfilling, with a strong sense of community and a close connection to the land. Characters from these villages could be farmers or hunters, their skills honed by a life spent in harmony with nature. They could be local artisans, their crafts reflecting the traditions and culture of their village. Or they might be village elders or leaders, respected for their wisdom and leadership. Some could even have a more adventurous background, such as a local militia member or a self-taught mage. Characters from these villages carry with them the values of community and simplicity, their stories rooted in the humble yet vibrant life of their homes.

FACTIONS

Choosing affiliations for your character can add a great deal of depth and help them feel connected to the world of Eventyr. Whether they're part of a guild, a religious organization, a charitable group, or something else entirely, these affiliations can provide your character with allies, resources, and a sense of purpose. They can also create interesting conflicts and storylines, depending on the nature of the affiliation and its goals.

Here are some possible affiliations in Eventyr:

Pirates: For a character who's opposed to slavery and willing to take the law into their own hands, becoming a pirate could be an exciting option. They could be part of a crew that targets slave ships, freeing the slaves and battling the naval vessels of Didston.
Churches: If your character is religious or charitable, they might be affiliated with one of the coastal churches that aid freed slaves. This could give them a strong sense of purpose and a network of allies. (See Religion below for more details.)
Luxuriarchs: For a character who enjoys the finer things in life, becoming a Luxuriarch (the trend-setters and taste-makers amongst the wealthy in Eventyr) could be a perfect fit. They could be an expert in luxury and opulence, sought after for their ability to curate unforgettable experiences.
Noble Families: If your character comes from a wealthy background, they might be affiliated with one of Eventyr's noble families. This could provide them with resources and connections, but also potential rivals and enemies.
Criminal Organization or Thieves Guild: If your character is an accomplished thief, they might have been recruited by a guild such as the Black Market Brigands in Barrwater or the Alabaster Company along the Southern Coast.
Trade or Craft Guild: If your character is particularly skilled at a particular trade or craft, they may also be part of a larger guild that organizes such groups, like the Glassblowers Guild in Havenport or the Trade Market Guild in E'Stroa along the Southern Coast.
Mercenary Group: For those who live by the sword, joining a mercenary guild in Eventyr offers not only camaraderie but also a steady stream of work. As a member of a guild like the Lunar Sentinels, your character would be part of a tight-knit group of warriors, bound by a code of honor and a shared love of battle. The Sentinels, known for their night-time operations and their loyalty to the moon goddess Selune, offer protection services, carry out strategic assaults, and even engage in espionage when the price is right. Being a Sentinel means having a band of brothers and sisters always at your back, but it also means living a life where danger is as constant as the moon in the night sky.

BACKSTORY QUESTIONNAIRE

To fully understand your character's backstory and bring them to life in the game, you could answer the following questions. Each question is designed to help you delve deeper into your character's history, motivations, and personality. This step is completely optional, but can help you make a character that feels like a living, breathing person and who you feel you understand on a deeper level before playing them. Hint: I have been known to hand out inspiration points for particularly well-crafted backstories!

Character Inspiration: Think about a television, book, or movie character that could serve as an inspirational model for your character. This will help guide their unique voice, actions, and choices.
Birthplace: Where was your character born? This can influence their accent, cultural practices, and worldview.
Growing Up: What was their childhood like? Consider their socioeconomic status, family dynamics, and early experiences. These factors can greatly influence a character's values and behaviors.
Faith: How did your character's family faith or personal faith impact their upbringing? This can shape their values, beliefs, and conflicts.
Early Influences: What events, people, societal pressures, locations, or activities had the greatest impact on your character growing up? This can help explain their motivations and fears.
Education: What kind of education did your character receive? This can influence their skills, knowledge, and social connections.
Talent: What did your character show a talent for at an early age? This can become a key part of their abilities or career.
Flaw: What flaw does your character exhibit that holds them back from achieving their goals? This could be something big (they refuse to take advice from anyone) or something little (they are deathly afraid of spiders) but it always makes for a richer experience to have a character with a meaningful flaw.
Turning Point: What event changed your character's life and set them on their current path? This can be a key part of their backstory and motivation.
Romantic History: What has their love life been like? This can influence their current relationships and desires.
Secret: What secret is your character hiding? Big or small, a secret can add depth to your character and create interesting plot twists.
Interest: What personal interest or hobby does your character have? This can add depth to your character and provide opportunities for role-playing.
Current Path: How did your character end up on their current path? This can help explain their current situation and goals.
What They Want Right Now: What is your character's current mission or desire? This can drive their actions and decisions in the game.

SPECIES

Eventyr has a particular makeup of species that reflect the history of the world and people's place in it. Note: I typically use the word "species" instead of "race" when referring to what type of creature your character is (Elf, Dwarf, etc.). Below you'll find a list with the available species for this world. If you'd like to learn more about the species in Eventyr, click this link to view a blog post with many more details. Due to the unique nature of this world, some information is consistent with core D&D 5e rules, but most of it isn't.

Want to play a species that's not on the list? Talk to me in advance.

Human (base only)
Dwarf (all varieties)
Elf (High, Eladrin, Wood, Drow)
Gnome (all varieties)
Halfling
Half-Elf (all varieties)
Dragonborn (all varieties)
Tabaxi
Tiefling
Orc
Half-Orc
Hanengon
Kenku
Aarakocra
Changeling
Warforged

For more details, read my blog post about the species makeup in Eventyr.

RELIGION

A full blog post about each major religion (and some minor ones too) is available here

Religion in Eventyr is a deeply personal and integral part of life, often tied to family history and species lineage. It is not uncommon for a family or species to devote themselves to a specific deity, their faith passed down through generations like a cherished heirloom. This devotion is reflected in the architecture of each settlement, with at least one temple devoted to a major god standing as a testament to the people's faith.

The pantheon of Eventyr is diverse, each deity representing different aspects of life, nature, and morality. Bahamut, the dragon god of justice, righteousness, and fairness, is revered by those who value law and order. Helm, a deity exclusive to the dwarves, shares similar values. Sylvanus, the god of nature, rebirth, and growth, is worshipped by those who cherish the natural world and its cycles of life. Arebus, the goddess of darkness, shadows, and malevolence, is feared and respected in equal measure.

Aostre, the goddess of dawn, daylight, renewal, and rebirth, is a beacon of hope for many, while Ablis, the god of despair, misery, and greed, serves as a cautionary figure. Selune, the goddess of moonlight, hope, purity, and equality, is a favorite among those who seek solace in the night sky. Asmodeus, the god of greed, judgment, and exploitation, is a formidable figure, his followers often driven by ambition and a desire for power.

Rillifane Rallathil, an elven deity, represents nature, wind, and the preservation of the natural world, reflecting the elves' deep connection with nature. Akira, the god of leadership, authority, adherence to law, and orderliness, is revered by those who value structure and discipline.

In the pantheon of Eventyr, Alidammara stands as the effervescent god of music, revelry, and the lighter sides of life. With a lute in one hand and a goblet of wine in the other, he dances through the celestial realms, his laughter echoing in the hearts of bards and rogues alike. Alidammara is not merely a deity of indulgence; he is the embodiment of joy and creativity, a beacon of light in a world often shrouded in darkness and despair. He takes great pleasure in offering solace to the downtrodden, infusing their lives with fleeting moments of happiness and the courage to face another day. Artists, musicians, and even jesters find divine inspiration in his antics, for Alidammara believes that beauty and laughter are the ultimate acts of rebellion against life's cruelties.

In addition to these major religions, there are also those who follow Cultist beliefs, often Warlocks who have made pacts with powerful entities. There are also Agnostics, who are unsure of the existence of gods, and Atheists, who deny their existence altogether. Regardless of their beliefs, all inhabitants of Eventyr are united by their faith, their devotion shaping their lives and their world in profound ways. More details about each religion or faith are available here >>

CLASS

In the world of Eventyr, all classes from Dungeons & Dragons 5e are fully compatible and can find their place in the rich tapestry of this setting. Whether you're a stealthy Rogue, a wise Wizard, a brave Fighter, or any other class, you'll find that your skills and abilities can be put to good use in Eventyr's diverse landscapes and complex societies. For those playing Clerics and Paladins, choosing a deity from the major gods of Eventyr to worship is an essential part of character creation. This choice should reflect your character's values and alignment, as it will guide your actions and decisions throughout the game. For all other classes, you can expect your abilities and features to function as they normally would in any D&D 5e setting. The world of Eventyr is ready to welcome you, no matter what path you choose.

STAT GENERATION

When it comes to character creation in my games, I believe in giving players the freedom to choose the method that best suits their play style and character concept. Whether you prefer the predictability of the standard array or point buy, or the excitement and potential for high rolls that comes with rolling for stats, all methods are welcome at my table. I trust you, as players, to make the right choices for your characters, and to create a character that will contribute to the overall fun and balance of the game. After all, Dungeons & Dragons is a collaborative storytelling experience, and your characters are the heroes of that story.

CHARACTERS FOR DROP-IN GAMES

BACKSTORY INTEGRATIONS

There are lots of ways for characters playing in the drop-in games to integrate their character into the unique world of Eventyr. Here are a few suggestions to get you started:

Imprisoned in Avaloria: The character was unjustly imprisoned in the interdimensional prison of Avaloria by the powerful wizard and politician Levin Throwe. Now that the prison has been liberated, the character seeks revenge against Throwe and aims to dismantle his empire piece by piece.
Escaped Slave Turned Pirate: As a former slave, the character escaped their cruel fate and joined a group of pirates who target slave ships and free the captives. They now navigate the moral complexities of piracy while fighting against the injustice of slavery.
Noble Born, Self-Exiled: Born into one of Eventyr's wealthy noble families, the character chose to leave their life of privilege behind, either to escape the corruption and intrigue or to forge their own path. They now grapple with their noble heritage while seeking to make a difference in the world.

Everyone else thinks Levin Throwe is a benevolent philanthropist, businessman, and politician. But you and your friends know better. He's a megalomaniacal madman who must be stopped at all costs!

Goblin Raid Survivor: The character's village was decimated by one of the increasingly common goblin raids. They now seek to address the root causes of the goblin overpopulation problem and prevent further attacks on innocent communities.
Appletun Entertainer: Hailing from the glamorous city of Appletun, the character is a talented performer, perhaps an actor, musician, or poet. They use their art to influence the hearts and minds of the people, either for personal gain or to effect positive change.
Bayside Innovator: Growing up in the intellectual hub of Bayside, the character is a brilliant inventor or entrepreneur. They seek to use their skills and knowledge to revolutionize industry and society, but must navigate the cutthroat world of venture capitalism.
Elven Enclave Exile: Raised in the serene, secluded environs of an Elven Enclave, the character was exiled for questioning the traditional ways or for a transgression against the community's strict codes. They now wander Eventyr, seeking to find their place in the wider world.
Aarakocra Far From Home: The character hails from the cliff city of Vihon Reach, the ancestral home of the Aarakocra. Driven by wanderlust or a higher calling, they have ventured far from their mountain home to explore the lands and peoples of Eventyr.
Shade Islands Political Refugee: Born into the complex political web of the Shade Islands, the character was forced to flee due to shifting alliances or a fall from grace. They now navigate the intrigue and mysteries of Eventyr, always watching for agents of their former home.
Emervale Prodigy: Despite their humble village beginnings, the character demonstrated exceptional talent at a young age. Sponsored by Audchild Sons publishing, they now seek to use their gifts to enlighten and inspire others, even as they struggle with the weight of expectation.
Cultist Defector: Once a member of a secretive warlock cult, the character broke free from their dark pact and now seeks redemption. They use their insider knowledge of the cult's workings to thwart their former master's plans and protect the innocent.

Rules for drop-in games are documented here: https://www.marcgallivan.com/rules

PLAYING IN EVENTYR

Before you enter the world of Eventyr with me as your guide, it's important to understand that my approach to running a game is a bit unconventional. I believe in a character-first game, where the motivations, backstory, and personal growth of your character take precedence. In the world of Eventyr, your character isn't just a pawn on a board, but a living, breathing entity with desires, fears, and ambitions that will shape the course of our shared narrative.

In my games, the species of Eventyr differ from core D&D (see "Species" above for more information) in demographics and some minor details, which you should know before deciding what kind of character to play. This emphasis on character development extends to my approach to rules. I value flexibility over rigidity, allowing for a more organic and immersive role-playing experience. While I care about the rules of D&D 5E and adhere to them more often than not, I'm also not rigid in my enforcement and tend to be more "rule of cool" than "rules as written".

I encourage social exploration over combat in my adventures. While battles are thrilling, it's the relationships formed, the alliances brokered, and the secrets uncovered that truly drive my stories. That isn't to say that there is no combat in Eventyr - there definitely is, it's just not the first tool in my DM toolbox that I reach for. To facilitate this, I've developed my own Social Maneuvers Mechanics, adding a layer of depth and strategy to social interactions. I'm also not afraid to introduce new mechanics, such as the lasting scars your character will bear when they drop to zero hit points. These mechanics serve to remind players that their actions have real consequences, including the very real possibility of character death.

The world of Eventyr is a vibrant tapestry of elements both familiar and new. My pantheon of gods (see "Religion") is a derivation of core D&D gods, providing a touch of the familiar in an otherwise unique world. Firearms are a part of Eventyr, adding a dash of grit and realism to my fantasy setting. And while the name Dungeons & Dragons might suggest otherwise, actual dungeons are scarce in my adventures. Instead, I focus on creating a diverse array of environments and scenarios for you to explore.

Before we set off on a limited run campaign or an on-going scheduled session, I always conduct a Session 0 (not typically something I do for drop-in campaign games). This is a crucial step in my process, where we work together to create a unique character that you're truly excited about playing. This isn't just about rolling stats and choosing a class, but about crafting a backstory, defining motivations, and building a character that will leave a lasting impact on the world of Eventyr.

Want to connect with more Eventyrants™️? Join our discord server!