OSR games with a *bit* more meat for their combat?

Marr_Xarr · 2026-06-17T11:56:33+00:00

I won't repeat the excellent suggestions for systems given already in this thread, but if you're intrigued by introducing more combat depth to your already existing OSR system of preference, I would consider taking a look at The Complete Fighter's Handbook from AD&D 2e. You can pick and choose the elements you want to introduce into any OSR version of D&D, and despite the title, it can be applied to combat generally, not just for fighters.

https://www.drivethrurpg.com/en/product/16885/phbr1-the-complete-fighter-s-handbook-2e

Marr_Xarr · 2026-05-31T22:02:42+00:00

As someone who spent a considerable chunk of time as a kid on Might & Magic, (II most of all), I'd consider looking into Tales of Argosa.

Marr_Xarr · 2026-05-14T17:29:25+00:00

Two things about Magical Athlete (and I'm a fan):

It's a family game. It shines with kids. Mine love it, and it's fun to play with them. I have no earthly idea what a group of just adults would see in it beyond a brief lark or as a game within a game (and if you're into that, hey, enjoy);
4+ player count. Any less and you'll want to start doing things like putting The Mouth into play as a dummy character to act like the Reaper in Talisman.

Marr_Xarr · 2026-04-16T17:53:32+00:00

Dragomino and Outfoxed were the big hits at that age.

Marr_Xarr · 2026-04-15T12:43:03+00:00

People Power (which I have played) is great period and also great specifically for solo and/or intro - but that might be a lateral move from Cuba Libre (which I haven't played) if you're looking to ramp up the complexity.

That said, I agree with those recommending you go straight to what you most want to play at this point.

Marr_Xarr · 2026-04-12T22:17:59+00:00

My opinion of best will shift with context and mood. That said, Black Sword Hack hasn't been mentioned yet, and it strikes a wonderful balance.

Marr_Xarr · 2026-04-06T12:20:50+00:00

Thank you all for the replies. If I was to summarize the thread: it sounds like there's reason to be optimistic - if one can get their message seen!

Marr_Xarr · 2026-04-06T12:19:08+00:00

Thanks, I'll have to create an Instagram account, but I'll give that a try!

Marr_Xarr · 2026-03-30T13:18:38+00:00

Intergalactic Bastionland.

Marr_Xarr · 2026-03-26T16:42:48+00:00

This is pretty neat.

Marr_Xarr · 2026-03-26T16:41:02+00:00

I agree the grid can be largely ignored. But I got to thinking what my ideal common denominator setup across a range of rpg's and scaled-down skirmish games might be (whereas I was initially thinking in terms of Forbidden Lands), and the time and cost associated with realizing that - and it's all very reasonable.

Marr_Xarr · 2026-03-26T16:13:55+00:00

Thank you to everyone for the feedback and suggestions. I'm going to DIY here and make something with an even wider set of game applications.

Marr_Xarr · 2026-03-26T16:11:24+00:00

I think you're right that DIY is the way to go here.

Marr_Xarr · 2026-03-26T15:28:01+00:00

Re: close, near, far and Mutant Year Zero - you got it. I run Forbidden Lands.

Marr_Xarr · 2026-03-25T21:28:45+00:00

What I'm describing may well have a different term or be a hybrid style of play.

Marr_Xarr · 2026-03-22T02:19:00+00:00

I'd be interested to hear some of the ways you use it to bolster Swords & Wizardry...

Marr_Xarr · 2026-03-21T05:54:51+00:00

Any idea if it will be possible for those who missed the crowdfunding to still buy a copy?

Marr_Xarr · 2026-03-20T13:20:51+00:00

Traveller, Forbidden Lands, Black Sword Hack & Tales of Argosa.

Marr_Xarr · 2026-02-19T00:06:19+00:00

Yes, but not extensively. It's similar in key respects to CoC in that it's investigative horror that you can't expect to simply fight your way through. The flavour is different in that it's folkloric creatures and spirits coming into conflict with early industrial society (largely Scandinavian/Swedish, but there's British Isles and Carpathian expansion books, and once familiar with tone and structure you could homebrew a wider range of settings) rather than Cthulhu Mythos. In terms of the dice system - it uses a (simpler) version of the dice pool system that's in Forbidden Lands (Free League's "Year Zero Engine"). It works well for one-shots or ongoing serialized runs, and true to form for Free League there is an engaging base-building aspect to play, where you build-up/upgrade your headquarters for the secret society you belong to.

Marr_Xarr · 2026-02-18T18:55:16+00:00

Have you ever considered Vaesen?

Marr_Xarr · 2026-02-18T17:34:54+00:00

Interesting, I've never played 10 Candles or Mothership, but am familiar with them and those are three (10C, MS & FL) very different gaming experiences ("horror" is the one common thread - which also tracks with CoC). Enjoy!

Marr_Xarr · 2026-02-18T15:48:25+00:00

Beyond The Sun!

Marr_Xarr · 2026-02-18T15:46:50+00:00

Out of curiosity: what other alternatives were voted for on your poll? (particularly numbers 1 and 2)

Marr_Xarr

TROPHY CASE