Castles & Crusades
Forge your legend in a timeless medieval-fantasy saga powered by the SIEGE Engine.

Creator Info

  • Designer(s): Stephen Chenault, Davis Chenault, Mac Golden
  • Artist(s): Eric Lofgren, Mac Golden
  • Publisher: Troll Lord Games (Official Site)
  • Game Page: Castles & Crusades

Overview of the Game

  1. What is this game about?
    A medieval-fantasy roleplaying system where players embark on heroic quests, delve ancient ruins, and defend kingdoms using streamlined d20 mechanics.
  2. Game lineage and inspiration:
    Released in 2004, Castles & Crusades draws on classic D&D traditions and AD&D-era gameplay, refined into the modern SIEGE Engine for accessibility and speed.
  3. What makes Castles & Crusades RPG unique?
    • SIEGE Engine: Streamlined action resolution with a single d20 roll plus modifiers for attacks, saves, and skill checks.
    • Simplified defenses: Uses a unified Saving Roll system instead of multiple saving throws.
    • Modular Character Classes: Base classes with specialization options for quick customization.
  4. Who will love it?
    • Fans of classic D&D who want modern, faster play
    • GMs seeking low-prep, high-fantasy adventures
    • Players who enjoy clear, unified mechanics over complex subsystems

Dice System

  1. Core Mechanic: Roll d20 + relevant attribute or level bonus against a target number defined by the SIEGE Engine
  2. Dice Needed: d4, d6, d8, d10, d12 and d20 (Full "standard" set of polyhedral dice)

A Helpful Video: "How to Play Castles and Crusades"