There is a reason Delta Green is a classic in the TTRPG world. This new Agent's Handbook updates much of the technology and other details of the setting, but it doesn't take away from the "classic" feel of a decades-long conspiracy and and courage at the brink of madness. It's been a while since I last played Delta Green, this is the perfect excuse to jump back in.
The most compelling part of the game (for me) is the ever-present focus on the Lovecraftian themes of madness and cosmic horror. Yes, other games have the sanity mechanic, edge, guts, etc... but few are as central to your character as it is in Delta Green. Even set in the 20th and 21st Centuries, this is still the biggest threat to humanity, and getting too close to the truth is only going to drive you over the edge and into a straightjacket or worse. When you're playing a PC with that much responsibility and that much to lose, and the game keeps reminding you of that at every turn, it makes for an unique gaming experience. I've played only a few games over the years where the players were so upset by the setting that it affected the way they normally play. It gets intense. And the fact that this current DG Handbook is filled with so much new gear and evolved backstory makes it an easy choice for a group looking to get into something detailed that isn't "standard".
The layout is solid as well, the font size and style are easy on the eyes (something that actually makes a huge difference when you read as many corebooks and TTRPG books as I do.) The art is terrific, I just wish there was a bit more, but that is no reason to take away stars on a review. Glad to see the agents of Delta Green are still carrying on the fight in 2016 and beyond! Go, go, Delta Green!
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