What is this game about? A pulp inspired swashbuckling RPG set in the land of Théah, where daring heroes embark on quests of romance, piracy, and political intrigue in a world of magic and myth.
Game lineage and inspiration: Originally released in 1999 by AEG, the Second Edition (2021) reimagines classic 7th Sea with the updated Chaoscope system from Chaosium’s RuneQuest and Call of Cthulhu engines.
What makes 7th Sea RPG unique?
Chaoscopic Dice System: Roll pools of d6s against a Target Number, with Exploits and Bounties adding narrative flair.
High Seas and Courtly Action: Integrated mechanics for naval combat, duels, and social intrigue.
Heroic Culture System: Flexible advantages based on character backgrounds (e.g., pirates, nobles, mages) that drive story twists.
Expanded Setting Lore: Includes optional chapters for the Raider Isles and Cathay, offering new factions, magic traditions, and cultural rules.
Who will love it?
Fans of swashbuckling tales, duels, and high-seas adventure
Players who enjoy cinematic action and heroic exploits
GMs seeking rich lore, modular adventures, and narrative tools
Dice System
Core Mechanic: Roll a pool of d10s equal to your Trait + Skill; each die meeting or exceeding the target number counts as a success. Exploits dice (d10) and Bounty dice (d10) provide narrative twists.
Dice Needed: d10
A Helpful Video: "Dan Reviews: 7th Sea, 2nd Edition"