Wraith: The Oblivion – A Gothic Symphony of Loss and Mortality!
Let’s face it, sometimes we crave a bit of existential dread with our dice rolls. Wraith: The Oblivion embraces this yearning for the macabre by exploring the bittersweet limbo between life and death. This isn’t your typical hack-and-slash RPG; instead, players embody restless spirits known as Wraiths – the echoes of individuals who perished before their time.
Their existence is a haunting waltz through the desolate landscape of the Underworld, known as the Shadowlands. Here, forgotten memories linger like spectral mist, and ancient sorrows take on tangible forms. The goal isn’t to vanquish evil or conquer realms; it’s to confront personal traumas, seek redemption, or even succumb to the alluring embrace of Oblivion – a state of absolute nothingness.
The Tapestry of Lost Souls: Understanding Wraith Mechanics
Wraith: The Oblivion utilizes a dice pool system where players roll a set number of ten-sided dice (d10), based on their character’s traits and skills. Successes are determined by rolling certain numbers, usually 6+, creating a sense of tension and uncertainty as you weave your way through the Shadowlands.
But there’s a twist! Unlike many RPGs where health is paramount, Wraiths measure their vitality through Pathos. This ethereal energy represents their connection to the living world, their unresolved emotions, and ultimately their ability to persist. As Pathos dwindles, the Wraith struggles against Oblivion’s beckoning void.
To regain Pathos, Wraiths must interact with the mortal world – a risky endeavor fraught with danger. They can influence dreams, manipulate objects, or even possess living beings for brief periods. However, these actions leave ghostly imprints and can attract unwanted attention from powerful entities known as Spectres – corrupted souls consumed by rage and despair.
Themes that Linger: Exploring Mortality and Identity
Wraith: The Oblivion transcends the boundaries of typical fantasy narratives. It delves into profound philosophical questions about the nature of death, grief, and the lasting impact we have on others.
| Theme | Description |
|---|---|
| Mortality: Wraiths are confronted with their own demise, grappling with unfinished business and seeking solace for past regrets. | |
| Redemption: Many Wraiths strive to find peace by resolving past conflicts or aiding the living in meaningful ways. | |
| Identity: As Wraiths grapple with their spectral existence, they question who they are beyond their physical forms and earthly memories. |
The Labyrinth of Storytelling: Weaving Narrative Threads
Wraith: The Oblivion encourages players to craft deeply personal narratives for their characters. They delve into the Wraith’s past life – exploring relationships, triumphs, and tragedies that shaped their spirit. As the story unfolds, these past experiences become pivotal threads woven into the present narrative, influencing choices and driving the character’s journey toward oblivion or transcendence.
Production Features: A World Steeped in Shadow
Published by White Wolf Publishing (now Onyx Path Publishing), Wraith: The Oblivion boasts a rich lore and evocative artwork.
- World of Darkness: Wraith exists within the expansive World of Darkness setting, sharing connections with other RPGs like Vampire: The Masquerade and Werewolf: The Apocalypse. This allows for intricate crossovers and opportunities to explore interconnected storylines.
- Detailed Lore: Extensive rulebooks and supplements delve into the Shadowlands’ hidden depths, introducing diverse factions of Wraiths, enigmatic Spectres, and ethereal beings known as Angels.
A Requiem for Gamers Seeking Depth:
Wraith: The Oblivion isn’t for everyone. It demands introspection and a willingness to confront complex themes. But for those seeking an RPG experience that delves beyond the surface, offering profound reflection on life, death, and the enduring echoes of our existence, Wraith: The Oblivion offers a haunting yet unforgettable journey.