Rifts
by Palladium Books
Rifts is a role-playing game published by Palladium Books, set in a post-apocalyptic Earth where dimensional rifts have torn the fabric of reality, allowing creatures and beings from countless worlds and dimensions to invade. This has resulted in a world where magic and technology coexist and clash, creating a chaotic landscape filled with danger and opportunity. Players can explore a rich and diverse setting where anything from dragons to power-armored soldiers can be found, offering endless possibilities for adventure and conflict.
What sets Rifts apart from other Palladium settings is its unparalleled blend of genres and the sheer scope of its world -- if you can dream it you can do it. Unlike settings that focus on a single theme or genre, Rifts combines elements of fantasy, science fiction, horror, and more, all within the same game. This fusion allows for an incredibly diverse range of characters and stories, from high-tech cyborgs battling wizards to alien invasions and ancient evils. The constant presence of dimensional rifts ensures that the world is always evolving and unpredictable, providing a unique and dynamic backdrop for any campaign.
Rifts is uniquely Palladium in its use of the Megaversal system, which provides a detailed and flexible framework for character creation and combat. The game offers extensive customization options, allowing players to create highly individualized characters with unique abilities and backgrounds. The setting’s depth and complexity, coupled with Palladium’s signature mechanics, ensure that every aspect of the game is rich with detail and possibility. This level of detail and the ability to blend so many different genres within a single game are hallmarks of Palladium’s approach to RPG design.
The strength of Rifts lies in its expansive and imaginative setting. The game’s detailed world-building and the fusion of multiple genres provide a rich and immersive experience. The extensive character customization options and robust mechanics offer a high level of strategic depth, catering to a wide range of play styles. The setting’s flexibility supports various campaign styles, from epic battles against interdimensional threats to deep exploration of the post-apocalyptic landscape.
One of the weaknesses of Rifts is its infinite diversity. The staggering number of occupational and racial character class options, each with their own set of special abilities and powers, can be overwhelming for new players. Additionally, the vast array of abilities and equipment can result in power imbalances between characters. Note: This is a feature not a bug! However, it does require consideration by the game master to maintain engaging game. In the end, this is what makes each Rifts group and each Rifts game a unique and memorable experience.
Despite its complexity and understandable imbalance, Rifts has a dedicated following due to its rich setting and imaginative possibilities. The detailed mechanics and immersive world offer a rewarding experience for those who enjoy deep customization and tactical gameplay. Newer gamers might be drawn to the game’s narrative potential and the expansive world, while old-school gamers will appreciate the robust mechanics and the ability to create diverse and powerful characters. The fusion of genres and the dynamic nature of the setting provide a compelling and unique take on the RPG genre, making it a standout choice for fans of complex and imaginative role-playing games.