Ruina: A Symphony of Cosmic Horror and Existential Dread!

Diving into the realm of tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs) can be an exhilarating journey, fraught with danger, intrigue, and unimaginable wonders. While classics like Dungeons & Dragons hold a steadfast place in the hearts of many gamers, exploring lesser-known gems can lead to truly unforgettable experiences. Today, we delve into the enigmatic depths of Ruina, a game that blends cosmic horror with poignant themes of identity and purpose.

Ruina is not your typical dungeon crawler. Forget slaying dragons and hoarding gold; this game plunges you into a world consumed by existential dread, where reality itself is fractured and malleable. Created by the independent studio Ysbryd Games, Ruina draws inspiration from literary giants like H.P. Lovecraft and Franz Kafka, weaving a tapestry of surreal imagery, unsettling themes, and deeply personal struggles.

A Universe on the Brink

The game’s narrative unfolds in the sprawling city of “The Spire,” a crumbling metropolis teetering on the edge of annihilation. The very fabric of existence is unraveling, and monstrous entities known as “Abominations” stalk the shadows, preying on the fears and vulnerabilities of its inhabitants. Players take on the role of “Scribes,” individuals gifted with the ability to manipulate reality through writing.

These aren’t your average scribes diligently copying manuscripts; they wield a power called “The Pen,” capable of shaping destinies, rewriting history, and even confronting the Abominations head-on. However, wielding such potent magic comes at a cost. Each act of creation or destruction chips away at the Scribes’ sanity, threatening to plunge them into the abyss of madness.

Unveiling the Game Mechanics

Ruina’s mechanics are as intriguing as its setting. Instead of relying on traditional dice rolls and numerical modifiers, the game utilizes a unique card-based system. Players draw cards representing their abilities, actions, and even their emotional states. These cards are then combined and manipulated to create narrative outcomes, reflecting the fluid nature of the world itself.

Imagine facing a grotesque Abomination in a dark alleyway. Instead of simply rolling for attack, you might draw cards depicting “Courage,” “Quick Wit,” and “Ancient Lore.” By strategically combining these cards, you could weave a compelling narrative where your character outmaneuvers the beast with cunning tactics, utilizing ancient knowledge to exploit its weaknesses.

The Power of Storytelling

Ruina is more than just a game; it’s an immersive experience designed to ignite the imagination and explore profound philosophical themes. The rulebook itself reads like a work of speculative fiction, peppered with evocative prose and thought-provoking prompts.

Players are encouraged to collaborate in crafting their stories, blurring the lines between player characters and the narrative itself. Choices have tangible consequences, shaping the world around them and ultimately determining the fate of The Spire.

Delving Deeper into Ruina’s Mechanics:

• The Pen: This central mechanic allows players to write reality-altering phrases, sentences, or even entire paragraphs on their character sheets. These writings can influence encounters, solve puzzles, or even rewrite history, but overuse risks draining a Scribe’s sanity.

• Sanity System: Represented by a pool of “Willpower” points, a character’s sanity is constantly under threat from witnessing Abominations, making difficult choices, and overusing The Pen. Losing Willpower can lead to mental instability, manifesting as bizarre actions or hallucinations.

Ruina isn’t for everyone. It’s a game that demands introspection, collaboration, and a willingness to confront unsettling themes. However, for those seeking a truly unique and thought-provoking TTRPG experience, Ruina offers a haunting journey into the depths of human consciousness and the fragile nature of reality itself.

Let me know if you want to delve into some sample scenarios or explore the different character archetypes available in Ruina!