Wildemount PDF⁚ A Comprehensive Guide
This comprehensive guide delves into the world of Wildemount‚ a vibrant and captivating setting for Dungeons & Dragons campaigns. Explore the rich lore‚ diverse cultures‚ and thrilling adventures that await in this war-torn continent‚ originally conceived by Matthew Mercer for the second campaign of the popular series‚ Critical Role.
Introduction
The “Explorer’s Guide to Wildemount” is a captivating Dungeons & Dragons sourcebook that transports players to the vibrant continent of Wildemount‚ a land brimming with rich history‚ diverse cultures‚ and captivating adventures. This comprehensive guide‚ penned by Matthew Mercer‚ the beloved Dungeon Master of Critical Role‚ offers an unparalleled experience for both seasoned adventurers and newcomers to the world of Exandria.
Within its pages‚ you’ll discover a meticulously crafted world brimming with intricate details. Explore the bustling cities‚ treacherous wilds‚ and ancient ruins that define this war-torn land. From the majestic Kryn Dynasty to the treacherous Dwendalian Empire‚ each nation possesses a unique identity‚ shaping the political landscape and the destinies of those who inhabit Wildemount.
Prepare to encounter a cast of intriguing characters‚ both heroic and villainous‚ who will challenge your perceptions and ignite your imagination. The “Explorer’s Guide to Wildemount” is more than just a sourcebook; it’s an invitation to embark on a journey of discovery‚ where you’ll forge unforgettable bonds‚ confront formidable foes‚ and uncover the secrets that lie hidden within this captivating realm.
What is Wildemount?
Wildemount‚ a land of sprawling landscapes‚ vibrant cultures‚ and simmering conflicts‚ is the continent that serves as the setting for the second campaign of the popular Dungeons & Dragons series‚ Critical Role. It’s a world of contrasts‚ where ancient magic clashes with modern technology‚ where noble ideals clash with brutal realities‚ and where the echoes of a cataclysmic event‚ known as the Calamity‚ still reverberate throughout the land.
Wildemount is a land of both immense beauty and stark danger. From the sun-drenched beaches of the Menagerie Coast to the frozen wastes of Eiselcross‚ each region presents its own unique challenges and opportunities. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer seeking to unravel ancient mysteries or a young hero yearning to make their mark on the world‚ Wildemount offers a tapestry of experiences that will shape your destiny.
This continent is far more than a simple backdrop for a campaign. It’s a living‚ breathing world with a history as rich and complex as the characters who inhabit it. Wildemount is a place where every decision‚ every encounter‚ and every choice has the potential to alter the course of history‚ leaving an indelible mark on the very fabric of the land.
Critical Role and Wildemount
Critical Role‚ a popular web series featuring a group of voice actors playing Dungeons & Dragons‚ has played a pivotal role in popularizing Wildemount. The second campaign of Critical Role‚ which debuted in 2017‚ was set in Wildemount‚ introducing the world to a wider audience. Through the captivating storytelling and engaging gameplay of the series‚ the characters‚ locations‚ and lore of Wildemount captured the imaginations of viewers worldwide.
The influence of Critical Role is evident in the “Explorer’s Guide to Wildemount‚” an official Dungeons & Dragons sourcebook that expands upon the world established in the campaign. The book‚ written by Matthew Mercer‚ the Dungeon Master of Critical Role‚ and a team of designers‚ provides a wealth of information about Wildemount’s history‚ geography‚ cultures‚ and factions‚ allowing players to delve deeper into this vibrant setting.
The popularity of Critical Role has undoubtedly contributed to the growing interest in Wildemount as a Dungeons & Dragons campaign setting. The series has inspired countless players and Dungeon Masters to explore this captivating world‚ creating their own adventures and stories within its rich tapestry.
Exploring the Continent
Wildemount‚ a continent brimming with diverse landscapes and cultures‚ offers adventurers a myriad of opportunities for exploration and discovery. From the sun-drenched shores of the Menagerie Coast to the icy wastes of Eiselcross‚ each region presents unique challenges and rewards.
The Menagerie Coast‚ a vibrant region teeming with exotic creatures and bustling port cities‚ is a haven for explorers seeking to uncover ancient secrets and trade valuable goods. The Marrow Valley‚ a harsh but beautiful landscape carved by ancient glaciers‚ offers adventurers a chance to face formidable beasts and unearth the mysteries of forgotten civilizations.
The Zemni Fields‚ a vast expanse of rolling plains and fertile farmland‚ are home to a diverse array of cultures and communities. The Greying Wildlands‚ a desolate and dangerous region dominated by ancient ruins and corrupted magic‚ present a formidable challenge for even the most seasoned adventurer.
Eiselcross‚ a frozen wasteland shrouded in perpetual twilight‚ is a land of ice and danger‚ where the remnants of ancient civilizations slumber beneath the snow. The Wastes of Xhorhas‚ a treacherous landscape of scorching deserts and ancient ruins‚ offer adventurers a chance to confront the remnants of a fallen empire.
Blightshore‚ a cursed region ravaged by the Calamity‚ is a dangerous and unpredictable land where the line between life and death blurs. These diverse regions‚ each with its unique history‚ culture‚ and perils‚ make Wildemount a truly immersive and engaging setting for Dungeons & Dragons campaigns.
Nations of Wildemount
Wildemount is home to a diverse array of nations‚ each with its own unique culture‚ history‚ and political landscape. These nations‚ often locked in complex alliances and rivalries‚ shape the continent’s destiny and provide adventurers with a rich tapestry of opportunities for exploration and intrigue.
The Dwendalian Empire‚ a powerful and ambitious nation ruled by King Bertrand Dwendal‚ seeks to expand its influence across Wildemount through military might and political maneuvering. The Kryn Dynasty‚ a proud and ancient nation of warrior-monks‚ stands as a formidable counter to the Empire’s ambitions‚ upholding a strict code of honor and tradition.
The Cerberus Assembly‚ a coalition of independent city-states‚ strives to maintain a precarious balance of power amidst the larger nations‚ seeking to foster trade and innovation. The Clovis Concord‚ a small but influential nation of artisans and scholars‚ seeks to preserve knowledge and promote diplomacy‚ often acting as a mediator in conflicts.
The Myriad‚ a collection of nomadic tribes‚ roams the vast plains of Wildemount‚ clinging to their ancient traditions and resisting the encroachment of larger nations. The Children of Malice‚ a secretive and dangerous cult‚ seeks to corrupt and manipulate the world‚ often using subterfuge and manipulation to achieve their goals.
The Diarchy of Uthodurn‚ a nation ruled by a council of elders‚ maintains a strict code of law and order‚ striving to maintain stability amidst the chaos. The Tribes of Shadycreek Run‚ a collection of resourceful and adaptable tribes‚ thrive in the harsh and unforgiving wilderness‚ navigating a delicate balance with nature and the encroaching civilizations.
These diverse nations‚ each with its own unique character and ambitions‚ provide a vibrant backdrop for adventures in Wildemount‚ offering adventurers opportunities to explore‚ learn‚ and make their mark on the continent’s ever-shifting political landscape.
Factions and Societies
Beyond the established nations of Wildemount‚ a vibrant tapestry of factions and societies weave their influence across the continent. These groups‚ driven by diverse motivations and ideologies‚ shape the social and political landscape‚ often operating in the shadows or pursuing their own agendas.
The Library of the Cobalt Soul‚ a secretive organization dedicated to the preservation of knowledge and the pursuit of arcane secrets‚ operates in the heart of the Empire‚ often clashing with the Dwendalian’s ambitions. The Scars of Scale and Tooth‚ a mercenary company comprised of hardened veterans and fierce warriors‚ offers its services to the highest bidder‚ often found in the midst of conflict or pursuing dangerous missions.
The Claret Orders‚ a religious order dedicated to the worship of the Betrayer Gods‚ seeks to spread their influence through acts of piety and manipulation‚ often operating in secret or through subtle influence; The Golden Grin‚ a notorious criminal organization‚ seeks to exploit the chaos and instability of Wildemount‚ engaging in smuggling‚ theft‚ and other illicit activities.
The Revelry‚ a secret society of artists and performers‚ seeks to express themselves through creativity and rebellion‚ often using their talents to subvert authority or spread messages of hope and resistance. These factions‚ each with their own distinct purpose and methods‚ add layers of complexity to the world of Wildemount‚ providing adventurers with opportunities to engage in intrigue‚ uncover hidden agendas‚ and navigate the intricate web of alliances and rivalries that define the continent.
Wildemount Gazetteer
The Wildemount Gazetteer serves as a comprehensive guide to the diverse regions and landscapes that define the continent. Each region is meticulously detailed‚ offering insights into its geography‚ history‚ cultures‚ and prominent locations. The Gazetteer is an invaluable resource for Dungeon Masters seeking to immerse their players in the rich tapestry of Wildemount.
The Menagerie Coast‚ a vibrant region renowned for its bustling ports and exotic wildlife‚ offers a blend of bustling cities‚ treacherous jungles‚ and hidden secrets. Marrow Valley‚ a desolate and unforgiving landscape shaped by ancient magic and ravaged by war‚ presents a challenge for adventurers seeking to uncover its mysteries. The Zemni Fields‚ a vast expanse of fertile plains and rolling hills‚ serves as a hub for agriculture and trade‚ offering opportunities for both peaceful pursuits and daring exploits.
The Greying Wildlands‚ a region of untamed wilderness and ancient ruins‚ is a haven for those seeking to escape civilization or delve into the secrets of the past. Eiselcross‚ a frozen wasteland shrouded in perpetual darkness‚ presents a formidable challenge for those brave enough to venture into its icy depths. The Wastes of Xhorhas‚ a desolate and dangerous region plagued by monstrous creatures and ancient curses‚ is a testing ground for even the most seasoned adventurers.
Blightshore‚ a treacherous and polluted coastline‚ offers a glimpse into the devastation wrought by the Calamity‚ and distant lands of Exandria‚ beyond the borders of Wildemount‚ offer tantalizing glimpses into the wider world. The Gazetteer provides detailed maps‚ descriptions‚ and narratives for each region‚ enriching the world of Wildemount and inspiring countless stories of adventure.
Character Options
The Explorers Guide to Wildemount offers a wealth of character options to enhance the diversity and depth of your Dungeons & Dragons adventures. Players can choose from a range of races‚ subclasses‚ spells‚ and magic items that are uniquely tailored to the world of Wildemount.
The book introduces new races such as the Gearkeeper Construct‚ a sentient automaton with a unique connection to magic and technology‚ and the Horizon Walker Tortoise‚ a powerful and resilient creature capable of traveling through different planes of existence. It also expands on existing races‚ providing additional options for Dwarves‚ Elves‚ Halflings‚ and Humans.
For those seeking a deeper immersion in the world of Wildemount‚ the book offers a variety of new subclasses‚ including the Gloomstalker‚ a ranger specializing in stealth and shadow magic‚ and the Moorbounder‚ a rogue who uses their cunning and agility to navigate the treacherous landscapes of Wildemount.
Additionally‚ the book introduces new spells that tap into the unique magic of Wildemount‚ such as the “Husk Zombie” spell‚ which animates the dead as undead servants‚ and the “Merrow Shallowpriest” spell‚ which grants the caster the ability to communicate with and control merrow creatures.
Players can also acquire new magic items‚ such as powerful weapons‚ armor‚ and artifacts‚ each imbued with the unique lore and history of Wildemount. These character options provide players with a rich tapestry of choices‚ allowing them to create characters that are deeply connected to the world of Wildemount and embark on unforgettable adventures.
Wildemount’s History and Lore
The Explorers Guide to Wildemount delves into the rich history and lore of this war-torn continent‚ revealing a tapestry of ancient civilizations‚ epic conflicts‚ and enduring mysteries. The book explores the rise and fall of empires‚ the impact of the Calamity‚ a cataclysmic event that reshaped the world‚ and the ongoing struggles between powerful factions.
Players can uncover the secrets of the Kryn Dynasty‚ a technologically advanced civilization that once ruled Wildemount‚ and the Dwendalian Empire‚ a vast and ambitious power that seeks to dominate the continent. They can delve into the stories of the Betrayer Gods‚ powerful entities who once walked among mortals before their betrayal plunged the world into darkness‚ and the Prime Deities‚ who represent the forces of order and balance.
The book also provides insights into the lives of ordinary people in Wildemount‚ their daily struggles‚ their beliefs‚ and their hopes for the future. From the hardy folk of the Menagerie Coast to the fierce warriors of the Greying Wildlands‚ players can experience the diverse cultures and traditions that shape the continent.
By exploring Wildemount’s history and lore‚ players can gain a deeper understanding of the world they inhabit‚ discover the motivations of its people‚ and uncover the secrets that lie hidden beneath the surface. Whether they choose to unravel the mysteries of the past or shape the destiny of the future‚ players will find themselves immersed in a world rich with history‚ lore‚ and intrigue.
Pantheon of Exandria
The Pantheon of Exandria‚ as detailed in the Explorers Guide to Wildemount‚ is a complex and fascinating system of deities that shapes the beliefs and values of the people of Wildemount. The pantheon is divided into three distinct categories⁚ the Prime Deities‚ the Betrayer Gods‚ and the Lesser Idols. Each category represents different aspects of the divine‚ reflecting the diverse cultures and philosophies of Exandria.
The Prime Deities are the most powerful and influential deities in the pantheon‚ embodying the forces of order‚ balance‚ and creation. Their influence extends across the world‚ shaping the natural world‚ guiding the destiny of civilizations‚ and inspiring countless acts of devotion. The Betrayer Gods‚ on the other hand‚ represent the forces of chaos‚ destruction‚ and corruption. Once revered as powerful and benevolent beings‚ they turned against the Prime Deities‚ leading to a catastrophic war that reshaped the world. Their influence continues to haunt the world‚ tempting mortals with power and corrupting their hearts.
Lesser Idols represent a diverse array of deities‚ each reflecting the unique beliefs and traditions of specific cultures and communities. These deities may be associated with specific domains‚ such as nature‚ war‚ or knowledge‚ or they may represent the spirits of ancestors‚ heroes‚ or even powerful monsters.
The Pantheon of Exandria adds depth and complexity to the world of Wildemount‚ providing a rich tapestry of divine influences that shape the lives‚ beliefs‚ and destinies of its inhabitants.
The Calamity and its Aftermath
The Calamity‚ a cataclysmic event that reshaped the world of Exandria‚ plays a pivotal role in the history and lore of Wildemount. This devastating event‚ triggered by the Betrayer Gods’ rebellion against the Prime Deities‚ unleashed chaos and destruction upon the world. The Calamity’s impact is still felt today‚ shaping the land‚ its inhabitants‚ and the world’s magical landscape.
The Calamity’s aftermath left the world forever changed. The land was scarred by the chaotic energies unleashed‚ leaving behind vast‚ desolate regions like the Wastes of Xhorhas. The world’s magical balance was disrupted‚ leading to the emergence of new and dangerous forms of magic‚ including the chaotic and volatile Thunderspeaker magic. The Calamity also caused a great upheaval in the world’s political landscape‚ leading to the rise of new empires and the decline of ancient civilizations.
The Calamity’s effects on Wildemount are particularly pronounced. The continent was heavily impacted by the chaotic energies unleashed during the event‚ leaving behind vast‚ desolate regions and warping the land in strange and unpredictable ways. The Calamity also led to the emergence of new and powerful factions‚ such as the Cerberus Assembly‚ who seek to exploit the chaotic energies left behind. The Calamity continues to cast a long shadow over Wildemount‚ influencing its history‚ its people‚ and its destiny.