Saving the universe: A Flash Gordon RPG game review

A Blast from the Past(Future): Mongo Setting Savage Worlds

The Flash Gordon RPG plunges you into the vibrant and dangerous world of Mongo, a rogue planet filled with exotic locales and treacherous villains. This isn't your typical fantasy or sci-fi setting; it's a loving homage to the pulp adventures of the past, with a dash of that awesome 80s flair. Think Buck Rogers meets Star Wars, with a heavy dose of Saturday morning cartoon action.

What makes this RPG stand out is how it enhances the Savage Worlds system to truly embody the Flash Gordon universe. It's not just Savage Worlds with a fresh coat of paint; it's a reimagining that brings the over-the-top action and dramatic flair of Flash Gordon to life. From navigating the perilous skies in rocket ships to battling Ming the Merciless and his minions, this game delivers a unique and thrilling experience.

What Sets This RPG Apart? Unique Features of the Flash Gordon RPG Rules

The Flash Gordon RPG takes the solid foundation of Savage Worlds and infuses it with elements that are distinctly Flash Gordon. Here are a few highlights:

• Setting Rules Tailored for Mongo: The game introduces specific setting rules that reflect the unique aspects of Flash Gordon's world, such as how characters become the "Savior of the Universe."

• Unique Edges and Skills: Character creation is expanded with new Edges and skills that fit the setting, like "Mongo-Tech" for creating weird science devices.

• Focus on Pulp Action: The game emphasizes fast-paced, cinematic action, mirroring the energy of the source material.

How to Play: Into the Impossible! Flash Gordon RPG Character Creation

If you're familiar with Savage Worlds, you'll feel right at home with the Flash Gordon RPG rules. However, some exciting twists make this game unique. Here's a breakdown:

• Character Creation: Mongo Tech and Skills: Players can create characters who are either natives of Mongo or Earthlings thrust into this extraordinary world. The process involves choosing Edges and Skills that define your hero, with options tailored to the setting. For example, the "Mongo-Tech" Edge allows characters with the Arcane Background (Weird Science) to invent fantastical devices.

• Skills and Abilities: Some skills are altered to better reflect the Flash Gordon universe. If an Edge requires a deleted skill, the replacement skill is used.

• Weird Science: This is a key element in the game, allowing characters to create and use incredible, often unpredictable gadgets. The Mongo-Tech Edge lets you build these devices on the fly, adding a fun and inventive element to gameplay.

• Action and Adventure: The game mechanics encourage high-flying action and dramatic moments. Combat is fast and furious, with the potential for sudden twists and turns, just like in the comics.

Additional Game Mechanics and Differences: Savage Worlds Flash Gordon Mechanics

The Flash Gordon RPG, using the Savage Worlds system, presents a unique gaming experience, distinct from games like Dungeons and Dragons 5e. The largest difference is the setting, a vibrant sci-fi universe filled with exotic aliens and advanced technology. The game emphasizes fast-paced action and cinematic storytelling, with streamlined rules that encourage player creativity and quick thinking.

Here are some of the game mechanics:

• Character Creation: Players create characters by choosing a race, archetype, and assigning stats and skills. Their characters, known as "Wild Cards," are distinct from NPCs ("Extras"). Attributes like Agility, Smarts, Spirit, Strength, and Vigor influence skills like Acrobatics, Driving, Fighting, and Shooting. The Savage World system uses dice (d4 to d12) to indicate skill levels.

• Game Master Preparation: The Game Master (GM) prepares the adventure, creating NPCs, maps, and encounters.

• Initiative: Combat uses a playing card initiative system, adding a tactical element where players draw cards to determine turn order.

• Actions: Players take actions like attacking, moving, or using skills, rolling dice and applying modifiers to determine success.

• Damage: Damage is tracked with wound points; Wild Cards have three, and Extras (NPCs) have one.

• Wild Die: Wild Cards roll an extra d6 (the "Wild Die") with skill checks, adding unpredictability.

• Raises: Rolling four more than the success number results in a "Raise," allowing for extra effects determined by the GM.

• Bennies: Players earn bennies (tokens) for good roleplaying or clever decisions, which can be used to reroll dice, absorb damage, or gain other benefits.

The game also includes rules for vehicle combat, psychic powers, and other mechanics.

Community Reactions: "Flash! A-ah!" Flash Gordon Tabletop RPG Review

The response from the gaming community has been overwhelmingly positive. Players love the game's ability to capture the spirit of Flash Gordon, praising its fast-paced action, imaginative setting, and the nostalgia it evokes. Many appreciate how it builds upon the Savage Worlds system, providing a familiar yet fresh experience.

My Take: A Whirlwind of Wonder

As someone who grew up with Flash Gordon, this RPG is a dream come true. The game's vibrant depiction of Mongo, combined with the thrilling Savage Worlds mechanics, creates an unforgettable experience.

In one session, my friends and I found ourselves in a desperate battle against Ming's forces in the Sky City of the Hawkmen. My character, a daring Earth pilot, used a Mongo-Tech device to create a temporary shield, allowing our heroes to escape a barrage of energy blasts. The tension was palpable, and the action was straight out of the comics! Moments like these make this game an absolute blast.

Final Verdict: A Heroic Triumph! Buy Flash Gordon RPG

The Flash Gordon RPG is a fantastic addition to the Savage Worlds family. It perfectly captures the excitement and wonder of the Flash Gordon universe, offering thrilling adventures in a world of retro-futuristic fantasy. If you're a fan of pulp adventure, or sci-fi action, or just want a game that's a ton of fun, this RPG is worth checking out.

Prepare for adventure, and remember: Flash! A-ah!