Just ran this module as a one-shot, posting my thoughts minutes after the game. There are player spoilers in the Pros below.
Pros:
- I was nervous about running this module because I didn't have a ton of prep time. Almost everything about this module's layout made it easy to prepare for on little time. I was briefly confused when I paged ahead to the Laboratory Showdown chapter and had to scroll backwards from there to find the description of the laboratory. Other than that nitpick, the module's natural explanation of the timeline of the adventure was GREAT for quickly getting an understanding of the thing.
- There's a surprising amount to explore in the town of Ashbrook! This module is perfectly suited for a DM who likes to add their own flair and embellishments to pre-written modules. If your party is the kind to find their "favorite NPC," they'll find one here. Ours was the Shopkeeper, Mortevan, who is obsessed with languages. The party had an interesting time teaching him a bit of Abyssal and Draconic.
- The trap with the tea was FANTASTIC. Certainly a highlight of the game. I used the Goose from Goose Game to provide some levity for the situation.
- The maps of the subterranean levels are reeeally nice. My party LOVED the final room.
- All of the above in a FOURTEEN PAGE PDF. That says a lot about the quality and the accessibility of this module.
Neutrals:
- Kinda wish there was a town map included, but it's not hard to find one yourself and drop it in for a one-off.
- The module is said to play in 4 to 6 hours. If you're like me and usually plan for 4 hours of game time, then turn around and add a bunch of flourishes to the world, be prepared for this one to run longer than 4 quite easily.
- I think it'd be neat to see a followup centered on the Harvest Festival!
Cons:
In conclusion:
5/5 stars. I ran this one online. I wish I'd been able to run it in person, to watch my players' reactions to each new scene. The laughs and epic combat moments that came from this module were GREAT.
Rating: [5 of 5 Stars!] |
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