The Dresden Files Roleplaying Game

User Summary:
The Dresden Files RPG uses the FATE system as the engine to run RPGs in the universe of Jim Butcher's Dresden Files. This is a world that is much like the Earth today, except werewolves, demons, vampires, zombies, faeries, sprites, and magic actually exist along with all the modern-day conveniences to which we have become accustomed. Wizards, and other entities that contain magic powers or properties usually wreak havoc on modern electronics and other man-made items. The world's population is split roughly into two portions, the ones that are "in the know" and the ones that are not. "In the know" individuals know that magic exists and is all around them, while those not in the know either have no clue, or are harboring such a deep denial that they may as well not know.

In this RPG, the game master works with the players to build the city they adventure in, in a cooperative exercise which lends itself to intertwined stories and motives. Rather than focus on attributes, the character sheets for this game include not only skills and equipment, but a type of descriptor called an 'Aspect' (a short phrase or word, such as "quiet as a mouse", or "quick to anger") that is used to motivate the game and move the story along.

What is the FATE system?
FATE stands for Fantastic Adventures in Tabletop Entertainment

From the FATE publisher's Website:

Fate is a free RPG system that focuses on telling stories and balancing characters based on story significance, rather than points and cool powers. It's the system of choice for GMs who are looking for rules that get out of the way of the story, but still provide enough structure to get the job done.

The Fate system is based on the Open Gaming License version of Fudge, and was previously based upon the Fudge License version. A rich text system reference document, and the PDF version of the game, are available in our downloads section

From Dresden Files RPG Publisher's website:

Evil Hat Productions is pleased to announce that it has signed an agreement with Jim Butcher, the author of the best-selling novel series The Dresden Files, for the design, production, and distribution of The Dresden Files Roleplaying Game.

"I was one of Jim’s first readers, back when Harry Dresden was only a rough draft and a dream. I’ve loved this character for ten years, and I’m thrilled that Evil Hat Productions is going to bring Harry’s world to a roleplaying game!" said Fred Hicks, co-owner of Evil Hat Productions and one of the game’s authors.

"I’m really looking forward to seeing the results of this project. I’m going to be working with Evil Hat all down the line, providing background information, feedback and original material to contribute to the RPG - time permitting, there will even be some fresh Dresden-universe fiction included in the final game," added Jim Butcher, author of the Dresden Files novels. "I know the folks at Evil Hat Productions of old, and they are insanely brilliant. Or brilliantly insane. Either way, as far as I’m concerned Harry’s world couldn’t be in better hands"

The Dresden Files Roleplaying Game will use a customized version of Fate: Fantastic Adventures in Tabletop Entertainment, Evil Hat’s acclaimed rule set that specializes in character-intensive storytelling and fast-paced action. Fate drew rave reviews when it took first place at the 2003 Indie RPG Awards in the Best Free RPG and Best Support categories, and placed third in Best Overall RPG.

Fate’s rules are ideal for bringing the Dresden Files to life, crafting stories that fit the characters and test their beliefs, while supporting a setting that mixes the mundane and the magical. The game will also serve as a fan guide, covering all of the major characters from the series, complete with quality illustrations and game stats for each. Players will be able to pick up the series characters and run games with them, or create their own characters - wizards, vampires, werewolves, faeries, holy knights, mafia dons, occult cops, ninja librarians, and more - to explore the 'Dresdenverse.' Every type of character from the world of the Dresden Files will be possible!

For additional information, visit The Dresden Files RPG website, http://www.dresdenfilesrpg.com/

Winner of the 2010 Golden Geek Award for Best RPG!

Shortlisted for a 2010 Golden Geek Award in the Best RPG category.

Nominated for a 2010 Golden Geek Award in the Best RPG category.

Winner of the 2011 Greatest RPG Battle on RPGG

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Dresden Files RPG - Harry's Pentacle protects me