In this review we present you Caravans, a module for D&D5e developed with the aim of providing players mechanics for the creation, growth and maintenance of a company of followers (which we will refer to as Convoy ) who follow the group in the various adventures.
The module is published by Dead Channel Studios, which we thank for providing us with the copy to review, following a very successful Kickstarter campaign. You can find other very interesting products on their store and follow them on their Facebook page and on their Twitter.
In particular, this manual is available in digital format at a cost of approximately € 18.
Review of the Structure and Art of Caravans
The module consists of 73 pages and can be divided into two macro-sections: one containing all the rules and a set of really useful tables.
The rules section is very well written and smooth, the mechanics are explained in a simple but complete way. Another positive point is the large number of examples that prevent misunderstandings or doubts of all kinds. The whole module is accompanied by beautiful illustrations, well made and evocative; some of these are visible in this review.
Review of the Caravans system
The basic system is the Q.P.S. System (Quality Prestige & Supply), which links each of its three Statistics to a D&D5e Ability.
Each statistic describes one aspect of the Convoy and specifically:
- Quality: it is used to determine the state of the Convoy and its daily operation; it is linked to Dexterity.
- Prestige: reflects the living conditions of the members of the Convoy and is linked to the Charisma.
- Supply: depends on Intelligence and represents the amount of resources of the Convoy, from the most common tools to medicines.
In addition to these three there is also Morale, representing the motivation of the NPC and their willingness to continue to be part of the Convoy.
The Challenge in Caravans
In my opinion, the two most important statistics to keep an eye on are Supply and Morale and now we see why.
During the adventures, avoiding that the score of Supply drops to 0 will be a real challenge; the Convoy in fact does not always need the same supplies and these can not be bought. Therefore, the PCs or NPCs will have to carry out missions (in the module they are called Tasks and we will talk about it later) to increase it; in case of failure, the score may even drop.
The Morale can instead increase and decrease continuously, as it is linked to both random events and actions of the characters. For example, removing from a leadership role a beloved, respected and long-running NPC, replacing it with a new one, will generate discontent that will lower the score. On the contrary, saving kidnapped Convoy members will make him grow.
If the value of Morale reaches 0, all the NPCs will leave the Convoy and in order to return the PCs will have to carry out a special mission.
What are Tasks
There is also the mechanics of the Tasks, or assignments; some are executable only by the NPC, while others are called Player Tasks and must be faced by the PC. They are all necessary to run the Convoy and are solved as a classic D&D5e Ability Check. The peculiarity is that each Task has more degrees of success, so the more the shot went well, the more the rewards will be substantial.
The NPC in Caravans
During their adventures, players can recruit NPCs and, for this reason, there is a very simple system for their creation and management. Thanks to a series of predefined archetypes it allows you to create truly interesting, well-defined and balanced adventure companions. It also provides a large number of examples from which to take inspiration and/or modify in the event of an emergency.
Caravans also introduces a useful system to manage NPC wounds. This consists of a random table (in this review we insert a section as an example) really well designed and easy to implement.
Making the Convoy Better
As a character, the Convoy also gains experience points, level ups and boosts itself. There are 10 levels of development and each of them corresponds to a free Upgrade. The latter are of various kinds and can also be purchased by PCs; their cost depends on their rarity.
Conclusions of the Caravans Review
To conclude my review, I can say that I really appreciated Caravans; I congratulate the designers who have managed to create a simple but articulate system that fits perfectly in the basic regulation of D&D5e. Quality is also found in writing and aesthetics. A recommended purchase for those who want to add a little extra spice to their sessions, making the trips much deeper and more interesting.