In this review we will talk about Secrets of The Drow Trilogy, a group of adventures for D&D5e that will let players explore the depths of the Underdark and try to save Winterhold; they can be played individually as one-shots or together as a short campaign that will take characters from level 4 to level 6. Inside the manual there is also a compendium with new poisons, weapons and ideas for the master.
This collection of adventures is published by Midnight Tower, that we thank for having provided us with a review copy; this work is the sequel to Hunter’s Full Moon Trilogy and the prequel to Rise of The Ice Dragons Trilogy (which we have already reviewed here). We suggest you to follow them on their Facebook, Instagram and Twitter pages and on the site to stay up to date on their new projects.
If you decide to buy this manual, keep in mind that it is available in hardcover at the price of 39.90$ and in PDF at the price of 9.90$ on the relative Drivethrupg page.
Review of the Structure of Secrets of the Drow Trilogy
The manual consists of three adventures (linked by a common theme) and a compendium: The Dryaneris Dark Library.
The three adventures have a similar structure: an introduction with details for the DM, a diagram that summarize the main scenes of the adventure and three chapters with other elements of the setting, new enemies and a new magic item; in addition there are a good number of appendices dedicated to various topics; one of them is always about to explaining how to modify the adventure according to the level of your group. This is a very useful because it makes adventures playable by any group and suitable for introductory an one-shot too.
Let’s talk about the adventures in detail:
- Troubles in Winterhold: as a first adventure, its structure is very simple; the characters have one to three missions to deal with. This feature allows you to modulate the length of the adventure and makes it perfect for a one-shot that must be completed in a few hours.
- Find the Lost Expedition: this second adventure is very linear, with only one important choice. The length depends on the need of the master and there are many tips on how to change it. This makes it a great filler adventure or intermediate chapter in a larger plot.
- The Spider Queen’s Ritual: the third adventure is much more complex than the others as it is designed in sandbox style. It is also the longest and it will certainly take an extended one-shot to finish it, unless you want to split it into two sessions. Definitely an excellent final chapter.
The Setting of Secrets of the Drow Trilogy
All the events take place in the Eastern Farraway, the setting of all the adventures created by Midnight Tower. More precisely, the events take place in the city of Winterhold and in the area of the Underdark linked to it. In the manual, most of information about the setting and the world is in the various chapters at the end of the adventures. Essential information about Winterhold is instead at the beginning of the volume. Surely it is not suitable for adventures outside this city, but with the material provided you can play this whole trilogy without having the impression that the world is “limited”.
Winterhold and its surroundings are a very classic setting; after all it is a metropolis inhabited by various typical fantasy races. In the compendium at the end of the manual there are many details about the Drow society. This content can be used by the DM also in other situations, not only in the Eastern Farraway.
The Plot of Secrets of the Drow Trilogy
The overall plot of Secrets of the Drow Trilogy is compelling and really well made, with a few twists set at the right time. Without making spoilers, the plot will allow players to face intricate intrigues above and below Winterhold concerning the Drow and their society; the source of the troubles are a strange stone and a crazy priestess.
Individually, the three adventures are equally interesting, although the second is the simplest and most linear; the third is the one that most positively impressed and amazed me. In any case, all the adventures have good NPCs and good antagonists; moreover, the stories are open enough to leave players free to face them and conclude them in various different ways.
The NPCs
The main NPCs in Secrets of the Drow Trilogy‘s are interesting and well-characterized. Some, especially among the minor ones, are quite stereotypical, but they do not have a great impact on the plot. I really appreciated the fact that each NPC encountered is presented in a dedicated text box, in which there is a physical and psychological description.
The new opponents introduced, both in the adventures and in the compendium, are balanced and intriguing. They allow you to give a particular flavour to the Underdark and make it even more dangerous.
The New Options and the Compendium
The Dryaneri’s Dark Library is a compendium that contains insights into the lore of the world and new enemies, equipment and options for the players. A highly appreciated addition, precious and detailed.
The new options for the players are a new Background and a new Legacy, which leads to new traits so you can make an even more particular character. All options are balanced, well designed and interesting. Even the new items and equipment are remarkable.
The new monsters are challenging but fair; none of them is too strong or too weak for the circumstances in which is used. In addition, there is a chapter with tips on how to make the Underdark more interesting and new quest suitable for Winterhold. The chapter on lore specifically presents the Underdark and the Drows, providing charming details that can be used in many sessions.
Conclusions of the Secrets of the Drow Trilogy Review
In conclusion, Secrets of the Drow Trilogy is a great series of adventures, suitable for both new and veteran players. Its plot will charm you and let you live good sessions.
Also the realization of this product is excellent; from an artistic point of view there is little to say, the manual is wonderful. The illustrations that pleasantly accompany the reading and the tactical maps are amazing and never trivial.
Surely it is a work not to be missed for all lovers of D&D5e.