10 Key Facts About TnDS that every player should know

This page is based on the following article: https://athas.org/articles/10-key-facts-about-dark-sun-that-every-player-should-know

The World is a Post-apocalyptic Desert

Embrace a drastic departure from traditional fantasy RPG settings with TnDS, where you’ll be immersed in a post-apocalyptic desert world. A far cry from lush landscapes, you’re confronted with scarce resources, survival challenges, and a red sun whose relentless heat is a character in and of itself.

Gods are dead

Forgotten gods cults protect the fearful villagers

The desert is full of roaming prophets talking about forgotten gods that want to wake from their sealed tombs. Sometimes they arrive at a small village whose inhabitant are desperate enough to accept any kind of protection.

Divine magic makes you insane

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Arcane Magic is addictive

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Archdruids rule the world 

Cruel Archdruids Rule the city states

The underlying sociopolitical subplot of Dark Sun is largely shaped by the power dynamics of the Sorcerer-Monarchs and their priest-like Templars. These Templars, bestowed with both magic and military prowess, oversee their city-states with zealous authority, while the iron grip of the ever-present Sorcerer-Monarchs presses on even their throats.

Primal magic requires sacrifices

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Education and magic is Oppressed by the Archdruids

The oppressive governing authorities of Athas have deliberately limited education, making literacy a rare skill in Athas. In a world where knowledge is power, the rarity of scrolls and books make them high-value commodities in the game.

On Athas Everyday is a Struggle for Survival

TnDS leaves no room for vulnerability - it’s survival of the fittest. Newcomers will quickly grasp this harsh reality - only those adept at navigating danger survive, and sometimes, becoming ruthless is the only way to secure safety in the face of adversity.

Bone, Stone, and Obsidian replace Metal

Resource scarcity dominates Dark Sun’s culture. Essential materials like metal are precious and rare, requiring the use of stone, bone, obsidian, and wood to make tools and weapons. These less resilient materials often instigate creativity and improvisation when a weapon breaks mid fight!

Brutal Desert Monsters and nomad raiders Ravage the Wastes

Athas is far from a friendly nature-walk – the beasts and monsters of the wastes are as adapted to the brutal conditions of the world as the inhabitants. Not only do these creatures exhibit remarkable traits of survival and adaptability, but their inherent psionic abilities also make them formidable foes, raising the stakes for any adventurer daring to traverse the perilous landscapes of Athas.