GRIMWILD is out—A cinematic replacement for D&D. Free.
The themes and tropes of modern D&D built on a narrative system inspired by Blades in the Dark, Dungeon World, Fate, and Cortex Prime.
Grimwild, a streamlined and cinematic tabletop RPG, is out now! Designed for players seeking fast-paced, dramatic storytelling, Grimwild reimagines heroic fantasy with innovative mechanics, evocative illustrations, and a free, open license (CC-BY). Built by passionate gamers, this system delivers a modern, low-prep alternative to traditional RPGs like D&D.
What Makes Grimwild Unique?
Grimwild prioritizes narrative over bookkeeping, ensuring every moment feels dramatic and meaningful. The game simplifies mechanics without sacrificing depth, offering:
- Dramatic Resolution: Dice pools of d6s keep things dynamic, with optional "thorns" adding cinematic tension.
- Freeform Magic: No memorizing spells—players describe magical effects within thematic permissions and roll!
- Collaborative Play: Characters earn XP for self-set goals, fostering stories driven by player agency and creativity.
- Fluid Exploration: Built-in systems for pointcrawl adventures and collaborative worldbuilding make setup effortless.
Who’s It For?
Whether you're a longtime D&D 5E player, a fan of OSR systems, or a narrative-driven gamer, Grimwild offers something fresh. It strips away mechanical slog while keeping the heart of fantasy roleplaying alive. The modular CC-BY ruleset makes it perfect for homebrewers looking to tweak mechanics or create entirely new experiences.
Key Features
- Twelve Fan-Favorite Classes: Familiar archetypes like the Bard, Paladin, and Wizard, reimagined for streamlined play.
- Classic Monsters, Reborn: More than 100 creatures redefined for storytelling, not just combat stats.
- Story Kits: No-prep story kits spark creativity and let you dive into play right away.
- Stunning Art: Per Janke’s artwork ties the world together with striking, evocative visuals.
Why Grimwild?
With Dungeon World showing its age and D&D becoming increasingly unsatisfying in play, Grimwild fills an underserved niche. Its focus on cinematic action and collaborative storytelling makes it a standout alternative for any gaming table.
Ready to Play?
Grimwild is available now—completely free. Grab a copy, dive into its elegant rules, and experience the joy of narrative-focused fantasy roleplaying.
Download your copy today and start your next adventure with Grimwild!
Or get a bonus chapter with extra content in the paid edition!
