Black Powder and Brimstone
Black Powder and Brimstone is a black powder fantasy horror role-playing game, written by Benjamin Tobitt and published by Free League Publishing
By Aaron T. Huss
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Black Powder and Brimstone is a black powder fantasy horror game that feels like Warhammer Fantasy had a love child with Lamentations of the Flame Princess while being surrounded by the real gothic horror bits from Warhammer 40k. Like many MÖRK BORG RPGs it is as much about the atmosphere of the setting as it is about the mechanics powering the game this is primarily done through the setting source material but also the artwork that spans from cover to cover. It also takes a slightly different approach to MÖRK BORG by including mechanics both at the character-level and at a higher, group-level whereas you can hire mercenaries, travel the land, and even hunt for food. It is not all about close-quarters but has an interesting vibe of being a group traveling across this blighted empire. It is powered by prompts from random roll tables and feels a bit old-school with a very new vibe.
Following in true MÖRK BORG tradition, the core rulebook is more of a book of art than a traditional RPG with darkness swarming throughout. This beautiful collection of art ties directly to the game’s mechanics and stays consistent throughout. I guess I wouldn’t expect any less given that the author is also the illustrator. Regardless, the creation of life mechanically matches the theme wonderfully and avoids asking the nagging question – What’s behind the curtain? Well that’s for the GM to know and for the players to find out. All I will say is that it’s central to the game’s theme and ultimately drive’s its purpose. The only part of the setting I don’t like is that it feels like every corner is filled with depressing themes and there are no beacon’s of true light to look forward to. It’s likely by design but sometimes players want at least one sign of hope.
Character archetypes are presented to align with the idea that you are a band of characters, likely mercenaries, traveling across the land for whatever drives you can gives you purpose. There seem to be few safe spaces, so I wouldn’t get too cozy with your characters. Imagination and creativity are going to win the day because everything you face can potentially tax your capabilities. Regardless, I love the character options as they feel old-school, traditional, and nu at the same time. I can see using these character types elsewhere, venturing across the sea, finding new lands with new horrors to overcome.
I might be biased but I think this is my favorite MÖRK BORG game yet. But then, I like this style of fantasy horror where magic is dangerous and not overpowering, forcing you to use technology and your wits to survive.
