Wednesday, June 17, 2020

The Last God: Tales from the Book of Ages #1

The Last God: Tales from the Book of Ages #1 is a truly unique D&D sourcebook from DC Comics. Based on the world of The Last God, a dark fantasy comic published by DC's Black Label, it is a 40 page 5th edition setting released in deluxe comic format. What I mean by that, is while the interior looks like a typical sourcebook, the paper quality and dimensions are the same as a higher tier comic.

Chapter One is four pages of setting history. Referred to as "Of the Age of Gods" this short section discusses the factors that shaped the setting. Chapter Two is six pages devoted to locations in the setting, the cradle of the last god. There are some really high quality maps in this section and I'm impressed.

Chapter Three is one of the most useful if you don't actually plan on using the setting. There are 18 new monsters presented with full stat blocks and lore. They vary in power from the goblin-like, maertroll's, to the 600 HP appropriately named Endwraith. All of these creatures are interesting. My only issue with this chapter is the monsters don't have Challenge numbers listed.

Chapter Four is a two page discussion of magic in the setting. Chapter 5 is on nly a page, but contains 5 really cool magic items. Chapter Six is two pages and presents three pc races. The first are the Abyssal nudist Dwarrow dwarves. The graceful Djorruk are godforged creatures made of living stone. Finally, the Aelva, nomadic children of one of the setting's gods.

The final chapter includes subclasses. While there are technically only three presented, there are many more variations than that. The first subclass is the Guild Eldritch arcane tradition. This arcane tradition is further broke down into seven "rings." This is followed by the Oath of the Guardians paladin. This oath is sworn to protect the fey, children of a goddess and the only ones capable of stemming the waves of undead that infuse the setting. Finally there is the Alvan specific Ferryman ranger archetype. These rangers deal with the souls and the afterlife and there are actually three paths you can take with this archetype.

I am going to admit that I hadn't heard of the comic series before this book was announced. I really think it sounds cool though and this sourcebook is fantastic. It's well written, full of flavor and content, and to top it off.... it's only 5 bucks! You should head to your friendly local comic store and see if they have a copy. If so, do yourself a favor and pick this one up.

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