Cleave

Cleave is a fantasy adventure roleplaying game that combines powerful tactical options within a dramatic fiction-first framework. This is Powered by the Apocalypse gameplay as you've never seen it before.

• Tons of interesting tactical decisions: tools to make every encounter varied and exciting
• Dramatic character options for a variety of character types: every character comes with a story to tell and powerful mechanics to do it
• GM tools that make running the game simple: moves that simply work and actionable principles make running the game accessible and fun

This is a tactics game where the decisions you make come from the story you're telling. This is a narrative game where the story you tell evolves from the tactics you use. This is an RPG for people who love story, who love strategy, and who want it all.

Additional Materials:

• Online character playbook

If you'd like to stay updated, follow me on BlueSky or follow the development blog!

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This is an early access version of Cleave. Much of the game is still being developed, and playtesting is just getting started. The game currently includes:

• Core moves to support combat, social play, and general adventuring
• A basic setting to get your adventures started
• 8 playbooks that cover exciting character archetypes
• A variety of weapon types and equipment options
• 23 spells with powerful effects and costs
• GM moves, principles, agenda, and detailed advice for running the game
• Encounter and GM character building tools

Parts still in development include:

• Interior art
• More guidance and examples of GM characters 
• Campaign creation advice
• Recommendations on custom moves and mechanics

Because this is early access and further updates aren't guaranteed, this version of the game is freely available. Adding a donation to your download is certainly appreciated, though, and I currently plan to use those funds to develop the game further, most notably by actually providing interior art.

(Thumbnail image alt text: A fantasy city stands flanked by a dark valley, by Perplexing Ruins)