Something not often discussed in the average Dungeons and Dragons campaign is how normalized death has become. Oh sure, people can still die permanently, often in frighteningly thorough ways depending on whatever entity you angered. But an arrow to the neck or a fireball to the face is fine so long as there's enough bits of you left to bring to a cleric. But what happens if those gods of the afterlife suddenly feel like those bits should be theirs forever? The Black Ballad explores the afterlife thoroughly, from its sudden brutality to its grim finality.
At 75% off, players can enjoy The Black Ballad TTRPG setting for only $10. The story begins where most journeys end, as the party explores the afterlife and decides their ultimate fate. Will they accept their part in the divine cycle of death, or go against the gods to live by their own principles? This epic campaign features ten cinematic chapters, split across 30 acts, and accompanied by a banger of a metal opera soundtrack. There's enough quality packed in here to rival even official D&D books.
What struck me about The Black Ballad is how thematically powerful it is in every aspect. From the trailers, soundtrack, and short samples I've seen, there's such a commitment to the themes of death. The aforementioned soundtrack perfectly captures the cosmic scale of their setting. Meanwhile, the realm of the Sunless Crossing explores the concept of resurrection that would make Planescape: Torment fans blush.
Besides its thematic strengths, I also love the technical flourishes done to make it compatible with multiple D20 systems. There's even a conversion pack for Pathfinder 2E on their official website for those who prefer Paizo's system. If you've been wanting a way to take your party to the afterlife, this is one of the best ways to do so.
The Wargamer Discord, in contrast, is a much livelier place for tabletop adventurers. If breathing life into characters is more your jam, then our D&D character creator guide will aid you.