AD&D (2nd Edition Revised) - The Illithiad

AD&D (2nd Edition Revised) - The Illithiad is a fascinating publication that delves into the enigmatic and terrifying world of the illithids, known as mind-eaters. This supplement is perfect for both Game Masters and players who want to understand the intricacies of these creatures. The book offers an in-depth analysis of the ilithids' biology and psychic abilities, revealing secrets about their anatomy and the powers they use to dominate their victims. Discover the mind-eaters' dreaded life cycle and the differences between them and their relatives, including their undead forms. In addition, The Illithiad presents a complete overview of Illithid culture, exploring its origins, mythology and the social structure that supports its interdimensional ambitions. You'll also find vivid descriptions of illithid communities and the unique psychic items they create. As part of the famous MONSTROUS ARCANA™ series, this volume is an essential addition for anyone wishing to enrich their campaigns with intriguing stories and challenging encounters. It is an indispensable guide for those brave enough to face the terror of the mind-eaters and explore the adventures that unfold around them.

Age 12 + 120 min 2 to 10 players

Artists: Matt Adelsperger; Glen Michael Angus

Designers: Bruce R. Cordell;

Date: 1998

Note: 

Mechanics: Storytelling, Paper and pen, Data Scrolling, RPG

Topics: Fantasy

Table of Contents
- How to Play
- Tips for playing
- Game mechanics
- Game components
- Additional Information

OBJECTIVE OF THE GAME

The main objective of the game AD&D (2nd Edition Revised) - The Illithiad is to explore the intriguing narrative centered on the creatures known as illithids, or "mind flayers", as players face their psychic threats and try to dismantle their nefarious plots. In this fantasy environment, participants not only fight enemies, but also immerse themselves in the cultural complexities and survival strategies of these beings, promoting an experience rich in lore and challenges. Through quests and ethical decisions, players must join forces and use creativity to defeat illithid manipulation, revealing how the fight against evil is not limited to physical combat, but also involves cunning and interpretation.

Tips for playing

Here are some tips for doing better in the game AD&D (2nd Edition Revised) - The Illithiad:

  • Study the hierarchy of the Illithids. Understanding their social structure can help you anticipate their actions and motivations in a campaign.
  • Create a character with psychic resistance. Illithids are masters of mental attacks, so skills or items that protect the mind are crucial.
  • Use real-world examples. Investigate how octopuses and cephalopods behave to inspire creative encounters with Illithids.
  • Explore unexpected alliances. Not all Illithids blindly follow their hive, leaving room for characters who can empathize or even help players.
  • Think three-dimensionally. Many places where creatures like these would inhabit would be complex and multi-level, giving a new dimension to combat strategies.
  • Watch out for Illithid slaves. They can be the key to finding weaknesses in the colony or temporary allies on your journey.
  • Give players subtle clues through the environment. Signs of decay or mutated vegetation can indicate proximity to a Mind Flayer colony.
  • Integrate mental puzzles. Mental challenges can be just as fascinating as physical combat and align well with the Illithids' features.
  • Don't underestimate the importance of dreams. Mind Flayers can invade dreams, offering clues or psychological traps.
  • Implement Illithid variants. Surprise your players with unknown types, each with unique abilities and weaknesses, to avoid predictable encounters.

Video about the game

GAME mechanics

  • Storytelling - The game master narrates the world, the events and the interactions with the players. Just as my uncle did, it is illustrated with details that captivate the imagination, sets the scene and brings to life the characters who cross the adventurers' path.
  • Paper and pen - Essential for recording character sheets, campaign notes and maps. I once lost a valuable note behind the fridge - it's vital to keep everything close at hand. Players use it to track progress and statistics, ensuring that adventures are meticulously recorded.
  • Data Scrolling - Polygonal dice determine the success or failure of players' actions. My first introduction to dice came with an exciting twist of fate, defining destiny with each roll. These rolls generate unpredictability, adding suspense and excitement to the game.
  • RPG - Half drama, half strategy, the players assume fictional identities, living new lives and narratives. That's how, one night, I became a warrior overcoming horrors from another world. This aspect promotes total immersion, as players shape the world around them through choices and interactions.

Game components

See all the items in the game below AD&D (2nd Edition Revised) - The Illithiad:

  • Psychics and their abilities
  • Mind Flayer creatures
  • History and mythology of the Ilithids
  • Spells and psychic powers
  • Alternative classes and professions
  • Adventures and campaigns set in the Illithid universe
  • Psychic combat strategies
  • Relics and artifacts of the Ilithids

Additional Information

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