

The layout is good, and in keeping with OSR+ design philosophy. It's compact, to the point and well written.

It teaches the player how to play the game, and the Warden how to design new levels. Regardless, as a starter adventure for Runecairn, Beneath the Broken Sword really works. And if you've played the game, it's hard not to be reminded of the specific mechanic or part of a level or story that Runecairn/Beneath the Broken Sword takes inspiration from, which can be a bit jarring. The combat system is faithful to the spirit of the Soulsborne video game series but I think you need to have played the game to get a sense how it's meant to look and feel. If you're familiar with Dark Souls, many of the encounters feel very familiar, but as a player, I still might have fallen for the tricks and traps the first time facing them. I enjoyed reading this, and Runecairn core rules! Together, they adapt Dark Souls mechanics and level design very well and have a nice atmosphere.
