Elena Erasmi
Before we begin this preview of Rascals of the Universe, I would like to thank Putrid Games for providing us with a hard copy of this nice glimpse into the game.
If after reading this preview you would like to download the quickstart, you can do so for free on their site. By following the same link, in addition to various fun finds, you can also find other news related to the game, such as an updated version of the rules accompanied by new illustrations.
Rascals of the Universe Preview: A Deliberately “Ugly” Aesthetic
I realize that the title may not be immediately understandable, but I’ll explain now. By reading this small 40-page manual, you will immediately understand what its intentions are. It is not proposed as a volume full of quality illustrations or a sensational layout, but winks at the “plasticity” of past decades. But this factor makes it, paradoxically, more pleasant to read.
Already from the cover image you can understand a little how the manual will be set up graphically, and it remains consistent until the end. One thing I certainly appreciated is the choice of fonts and their size; despite this type of aesthetic, the text is perfectly readable. Even the card, as you can see below, is very simple but decidedly colorful and intuitive.
Simple Mechanics to Start Playing
However, one of the strong points of this manual remains the game rules. No complex or difficult to understand mechanics are introduced, and the various types of dice are even explained. I believe that with a product of this type it is useful to start from the basics and keep the mechanics simple without making the game less interesting, especially for those who have recently started playing.
The creation of the character (here called Henchman) is quick. There are six characteristics: Strength, Dexterity, Constitution, Intelligence, Wisdom and Charisma. By rolling 1d6 we will obtain the Bonus for each characteristic, to be used in the tests; then adding 10 to the result of the roll, we will instead have the relevant Threshold, which represents the limits of the Henchman. Subsequently, 2d4 are rolled and added to the constitution bonus to obtain the Hit Points.
When facing a test, simply roll a d20 and add the characteristic rolled in question. The objective is to exceed a fixed threshold, which often (at least in combat) turns out to be 15.
Next we must select the Role of our protagonist. The possible choices are:
- Beastman: A humanoid warrior with animalistic features such as fur, fangs, and claws.
- The Night Witch: a powerful enchantress capable of altering reality with her powers.
- The Lord of the Image: an explorer with unattainable mimicry abilities.
- The Weapon Wizard: a highly skilled sniper who can resist almost any shot.
Finally we have the inventory. From a long and rich table we will be able to decide what our Henchman will bring with him. Alternatively we can also leave it to chance by rolling a d20.
Preview of Rascals of the Universe: Small Setting Elements
Although this quickstart of the game does not have many pages, in addition to the rules, we are also provided with some setting elements. Everything revolves around two bitter enemies: Skeleman, the ruler of darkness, and He-Tor, the keeper of secrets. Here too, the references to the He-Man animated series are obvious, but the comic key with which they are presented allows these references not to be at all heavy.
At the beginning of the manual, with cartoons, Skeleman invites us to join him to follow his domain, gain evil abilities and fight for control of Infinitia. In Infinita however, as is made clear from the start, evil always loses.
We could not know the setting without an adequate presentation of the most precious tools it contains. A large space is therefore left for a substantial list of magical objects. Clearly, the more powerful an object is, the greater the risk of unexpected consequences.
In the final part of the manual we are provided with various examples of missions that can be undertaken. It would be very interesting to have at least a complete adventure that you could offer your players, instead of just gameplay ideas. In any case, when the Henchmen manage to complete their missions, they have the possibility of accumulating Infamy Points, a source of pride and bad reputation.
Rascals of the Universe Preview Conclusions
Simplicity, a factor often condemned in the world of role-playing games, in this case highlights the product. I think Rascals of the Universe is perfectly suited to those approaching role-playing games for the first time. It is certainly also suitable for the most experienced players who need a “change of scenery” and try something new, immediate and fun. It will certainly also attract the attention of those who will be able to grasp the proposed references.
I don’t know what new features will be in the finished product but, as you can see from this preview, Rascals of the Universe gives us hope.
