Feast of the Einherjar (Players Guide)

(This is a free draft preview of an upcoming project)

Fimbulvetr

Winter has descended upon Midgard, and with it comes a harsh reality: food is scarce, and survival is no longer a guarantee. As an inexperienced Drengr, you must be bold and reckless, braving the elements and taking on dangerous quests in order to emerge as a hero of your village. Exploring the untamed wilderness, hunting fearsome monsters, and raiding dungeons are just a few of the challenges that await you on your journey.  But above all else, your first priority must be to survive in this gritty and unforgiving world. With the threat of starvation always looming, every choice you make could mean the difference between life and death. Only the strongest and most skilled Drengr will be able to navigate the treacherous terrain of Midgard and emerge victorious.

What is this?

• This project includes the world tree as a seeting map of the 9 realms
• It is a summary of research with art to establish Old Norse setting leaning in on traditional lore.
• It does include or use embellishments from Tolkien and Howard to color vague traditional Old Norse mythos
• The project offers advice on modifying modern D&D to include a fast, OSR, rules-light style of play.
• It includes new optional rule suggestions, such as brutal death saves and warbands like hirelings.
• It includes information on fates for life after failed death saves.
• It provides guidance on conducting battles using warbands.
• The project encourages embracing high level modern D&D and the incorporation of superhuman abilities as demi-gods.
• The concept suggest ending a campaign in a world-ending apocalypse, Ragnarök, which is a war between the gods.

The world depicted in Yggdrasil is a glimpse into a realm of myths and legends that have remained untouched by written history or exploration. This world comprises nine realms, which are home to a wide variety of creatures, ranging from the familiar tropes of gods, giants, dragons, trolls, elves, and dwarves, to lesser-known beings like the Hulda or Nix. Common animals found in this world include Wolves, Ravens, Giant Eagles, and Boars. While the gods and giants are mortal, they are powerful tribes of men with varying stature and strength. As you journey through this world, you will encounter powerful individuals who can shape-shift and grow in size, with their abilities increasing as they gain strength. The classic Viking culture is rich in archetypes such as berserkers, shield maidens, and Valkyries, as well as more obscure figures such as seiðrkona, volva, and skelmr. In this world, death is not the end but rather a destination determined by how one lived and died. This Old Norse world offers a range of experiences, from gritty adventures to epic sagas, spanning the gamut of heroic storytelling.