The Frostbound Tundra is an unforgiving world where danger lurks around every corner, and death is an ever-present possibility. These rules ensure clarity, fairness, and immersion while embracing the harsh realities of the setting. ==== The Harsh Reality of PvE ==== **Death is Part of the Game** Character death is a natural consequence of the brutal and dangerous world. Players are encouraged to view death as an opportunity to explore new characters and stories, not as a punishment. **Adapt and Survive:** Players must be resourceful, cautious, and strategic to endure the tundra’s many challenges. Recklessness often comes with severe consequences. ==== Combat Rules ==== **Standard Rules Apply:** Combat follows the rules as outlined in the Pathfinder system. Players must manage resources, such as spells, potions, and rations, carefully during encounters. ==== Environmental Hazards ==== The Frostbound Tundra is not just filled with enemies but also environmental dangers, including: * Extreme cold (requiring Constitution saves or leading to exhaustion). * Icebound terrain (difficult terrain, slippery surfaces, and risk of falling). * Frost storms (obscured vision, reduced movement, and added risk to ranged attacks). ==== Monster Tactics ==== Enemies in the world are intelligent and adapt to players’ actions. Ambushes, retreats, and coordinated attacks are common. **Critical Consequences** Enemy critical hits and missteps can have devastating results. Permanent injuries (scars, lost limbs, or other impairments) may occur depending on the severity of a player’s failure or the situation. ==== Rest and Recovery ==== **Limited Healing Options** Resting requires adequate shelter and supplies. Inadequate rest can result in exhaustion or reduced healing. Potions and healing spells are finite resources. Players should consider alternative solutions, like medicine or careful planning. **Long Rests Are Precious** The DM will determine when and where long rests are possible, depending on the situation and the environment. Interruptions during rest (e.g., wandering monsters, environmental hazards) are likely in unsafe areas. ==== Player Death ==== **Death Happens** Characters can and will die. The tundra is ruthless, and no one is immune to its dangers. **Revival Mechanics** Resurrection or revival spells may not always be available. These spells are rare and may require significant resources or a quest to complete. Revived characters may suffer lasting consequences, such as reduced stats or lingering effects from their brush with death. ==== Exploration Rules ==== **Harsh Travel Conditions** The Frostbound Tundra’s extreme weather will challenge players. Failing to prepare with adequate supplies, clothing, and mounts will have dire consequences. Survival checks are critical to avoid getting lost, managing food, and finding shelter. **Resource Management** Food, water, and warmth are essential for survival. Scarcity can lead to exhaustion or worse. Encumbrance rules are enforced, making careful inventory management vital. **Random Encounters** Travel comes with the risk of random encounters, both hostile and neutral. ==== Rewarding Smart Play ==== **Preparation Matters** Players who plan ahead, think strategically, and work as a team will be rewarded. Clever solutions and roleplay that fit the world’s harsh tone will be encouraged and may provide bonuses or advantages. **Story-Driven Consequences** Character actions, failures, and triumphs will have a lasting impact on the world and its narrative. ==== Injury and Lingering Effects ==== **Lingering Injuries** Severe failures or critical hits may result in injuries, such as broken bones, frostbite, or scars. These can be mitigated with magic or medicine, but some effects may become permanent. **Abyssal Corruption** Prolonged exposure to Abyssal influence can cause lasting effects, from minor curses to transformative mutations. ==== Party Dynamics ==== **Party Survival Is Key** The tundra is too harsh to survive alone. Players must work together to overcome challenges. Lone wolf characters may struggle unless well-supported by the party. **Leadership and Roles** Party members are encouraged to take on roles suited to their characters, such as scout, healer, or diplomat. ==== Story Integration of Death ==== **Legacy of the Fallen** The story acknowledges the loss of characters. Deaths may inspire quests, such as retrieving a fallen ally’s body, avenging them, or dealing with the consequences of their absence. **Reputation Impact** Deaths in the party may affect relationships with factions and NPCs, altering how they perceive the group’s capabilities. ==== DM Role ==== The DM ensures that the world is challenging but fair, providing ample opportunities for players to succeed through smart decisions and roleplay. Death is not a punishment but a consequence of risk in the dangerous world of the Frostbound Tundra.