Candela Obscura is a chilling horror tabletop roleplaying game set in a late 19th-century city built on ancient ruins, where remnants of powerful magic linger.
Players join a secret society, investigating supernatural phenomena to protect the world, blending nerve, cunning, and intuition in a collaborative, story-driven experience.
1.1 Overview of the Horror Tabletop Roleplaying Game
Candela Obscura is a chilling tabletop RPG where players join a secret society to confront supernatural horrors. Set in a late 19th-century city with ancient ruins, the game blends mystery, magic, and mature themes. Investigators rely on nerve, cunning, and intuition to survive, exploring a world filled with occult dangers and moral dilemmas, requiring teamwork and strategic thinking to uncover the truth.
1.2 The Secret Society and Its Purpose
Candela Obscura is a clandestine organization dedicated to investigating and containing supernatural phenomena. Members, known as investigators, are tasked with securing and studying occult threats, protecting humanity from unseen dangers. The society operates covertly, managing resources and directing investigations through a hierarchical structure led by the enigmatic Council of Lightkeepers, ensuring the world remains unaware of the horrors they confront.
Setting of Candela Obscura
The game unfolds in a late 19th-century city atop ancient ruins, where remnants of powerful magic coexist with modernity, creating a tense, foreboding atmosphere.
2.1 The Late 19th Century City and Ancient Ruins
The late 19th-century city in Candela Obscura is a place of contrasts, where industrial progress clashes with the eerie presence of ancient ruins. These ruins, remnants of a forgotten civilization, are alive with whispers of the past and lingering traces of powerful magic. The city’s architecture is a mix of gothic spires and fog-shrouded alleyways, creating an atmosphere of perpetual unease. Beneath the cobblestone streets, hidden chambers and tunnels hint at secrets waiting to be unearthed. The interplay between modern society and ancient mysteries sets the stage for a haunting environment where the past and present collide, offering endless opportunities for mystery and horror. The setting is rich in lore, with each ruin holding a story and each shadow concealing a potential threat, making it a compelling backdrop for investigators to delve into the unknown.
2.2 The Role of Magic and Supernatural Phenomena
Magic in Candela Obscura is a double-edged sword, offering power but also unleashing terrifying consequences. Supernatural phenomena permeate the setting, from eerie apparitions to ancient spells lingering in the ruins. Investigators must navigate these forces carefully, as magic can be both a tool and a threat. The game emphasizes the dangers of delving into forbidden knowledge, where even small mistakes can have dire repercussions. The supernatural elements are deeply intertwined with the horror theme, creating an atmosphere of dread and uncertainty.
Gameplay Mechanics
Candela Obscura employs a Nerve, Cunning, and Intuition system, emphasizing skill checks and consequences. Failures lead to dire outcomes, heightening the horror and narrative tension.
3.1 The Nerve, Cunning, and Intuition System
The Nerve, Cunning, and Intuition system in Candela Obscura governs skill checks, investigations, and overcoming supernatural challenges. Players rely on these traits to navigate tense scenarios, with successes and failures deeply impacting the narrative. This mechanic emphasizes character strengths and weaknesses, creating a dynamic and unpredictable gameplay experience.
3.2 Consequences of Failure in Investigations
In Candela Obscura, failing investigations leads to significant narrative consequences, such as character retirement, NPC takeover, or dire plot twists. Failures often result in unresolved supernatural threats, endangering the world and escalating tensions for future assignments. These outcomes emphasize the game’s focus on storytelling and the lasting impact of players’ choices.
The Role of Investigators
Investigators in Candela Obscura are members of a secret society tasked with uncovering and mitigating supernatural threats. Their roles involve securing and studying phenomena to protect the world.
Each investigator brings unique skills, collaborating to solve mysteries and face horrors, ensuring the society’s mission endures amidst escalating dangers and mysterious events.
4.1 Members of Candela Obscura and Their Responsibilities
Members of Candela Obscura are skilled investigators tasked with uncovering and mitigating supernatural threats. Directed by the Council of Lightkeepers, they secure and study phenomena, ensuring the society’s mission to protect the world from magical incursions. Investigators rely on teamwork, using their unique abilities to confront horrors, while the organization provides resources to clean up scenes and transport creatures discreetly.
4.2 Character Development and Improvement
Character development in Candela Obscura is driven by the Nerve, Cunning, and Intuition system, allowing players to improve traits based on their experiences. As investigators face supernatural horrors, they gain scars and fears, adding depth to their stories. Failure in investigations can lead to lasting consequences, shaping characters and enhancing the narrative. This system ensures progression is tied to the story’s darker themes and challenges.
Digital Tools and Resources
The Candela Obscura Nexus on Demiplane offers digital tools, including a character builder and interactive sheets, enhancing gameplay. PDF versions and bundles are also available.
5.1 The Candela Obscura Nexus on Demiplane
The Candela Obscura Nexus on Demiplane is a comprehensive digital platform designed to enhance your gaming experience. It features a character builder, interactive character sheets, and other digital tools to streamline gameplay. Players and GMs can access the core rulebook, assignments, and resources, all organized in one place for convenience. The Nexus is a must-have for anyone playing or running Candela Obscura online.
5.2 PDF Versions and Bundles Available
The Candela Obscura Core Rulebook is available as a 204-page PDF, offering detailed rules, setting information, and artwork. Players can purchase it individually or as part of a bundle deal, which includes additional resources like character builders and example assignments. A Quickstart Guide is also available for new players, providing an introduction to the game’s mechanics and setting.
The Core Rulebook
The Candela Obscura Core Rulebook is a 204-page comprehensive guide, featuring extensive artwork, detailed setting descriptions, and four full example assignments for gamemasters.
6.1 Key Features of the 204-Page Document
The 204-page Core Rulebook offers a rich setting inspired by the late 19th century, with over 90 pages detailing the Fairelands. It includes four full example assignments for GMs, 30 additional scenarios, and guidance for both players and game masters. The book also features a satin bookmark for easy navigation and stunning artwork that immerses players in the eerie atmosphere of Candela Obscura.
6.2 Artwork, Setting Details, and Example Assignments
The Core Rulebook features stunning artwork that enhances the eerie atmosphere of the late 19th-century setting. Detailed descriptions of the Fairelands and ancient ruins immerse players in the world. Four full example assignments and 30 additional scenarios provide GMs with ready-to-play content, while sensitive themes like body horror and gore are depicted with caution, advising reader discretion.
Sensitive Content and Themes
Candela Obscura includes depictions of abuse, gore, and horror elements, requiring reader discretion due to mature themes.
Players are advised to approach the content cautiously, as it tackles sensitive topics like body horror and death.
7.1 Depictions of Abuse, Gore, and Horror Elements
Candela Obscura contains Graphic depictions of abuse, gore, and horror elements, including psychological distress and unsettling environments, immersing players in a chilling, mature narrative.
These themes are central to the game’s horror experience, requiring players to confront dark, disturbing content that aligns with its occult and supernatural setting.
7.2 Reader Discretion and Mature Themes
Candela Obscura tackles mature themes, including abuse, death, and psychological horror, requiring players to exercise discretion due to its intense and unsettling nature.
The game is designed for mature audiences, as its dark narrative and graphic content may not be suitable for all players, emphasizing the need for caution and sensitivity.
Community and Player Resources
Candela Obscura offers single-player assignments and homebrew content, enriching the gaming experience for solo players and groups alike.
The community provides resources for finding players, forming groups, and accessing digital tools like the Candela Obscura Nexus on Demiplane.
8.1 Single-Player Assignments and Homebrew Content
Candela Obscura offers single-player assignments, allowing players to engage in choose-your-own-path style investigations, perfect for solo play or as standalone stories within campaigns.
Homebrew content, including custom assignments and resources, expands gameplay, enabling players to create unique experiences tailored to their preferences and deepen their immersion in the game’s eerie world.
8.2 Finding Players and Forming Groups
Online forums, social media, and Discord servers are excellent platforms for connecting with fellow players. Local game stores often host meetups or can direct you to nearby groups. Additionally, the Candela Obscura Nexus on Demiplane provides digital tools and resources, fostering community engagement and helping players form cohesive groups for immersive investigations.
The Hierarchy of Candela Obscura
The organization is led by the Council of Lightkeepers, who oversee resource allocation and direct investigations, ensuring the society’s mission to combat supernatural threats is fulfilled effectively.
9.1 The Council of Lightkeepers and Resource Management
The Council of Lightkeepers, Candela Obscura’s governing body, strategically manages resources, overseeing investigations and allocating tools to protect the world from magical incursions. Their decisions ensure the society remains equipped to handle supernatural threats, maintaining secrecy and operational efficiency while guiding investigators in their perilous missions. This structured hierarchy is vital for the organization’s survival and effectiveness.
9.2 The Role of Lightkeepers in Directing Investigations
Lightkeepers are senior members who direct investigations, assigning tasks and guiding investigators. They ensure missions align with Candela Obscura’s goals, providing critical oversight and expertise. Their leadership is crucial in navigating supernatural threats, making tough decisions, and maintaining the society’s secrecy, ensuring each investigation is conducted with precision and care to protect both the world and the investigators involved effectively.
The Importance of Teamwork
Teamwork is vital in Candela Obscura, as investigators rely on each other’s strengths to survive supernatural encounters. Collaboration ensures collective success and enhances survival strategies in perilous situations.
10.1 Collaborative Gameplay and Reliance on Allies
In Candela Obscura, teamwork is essential, as investigators must collaborate to uncover truths and survive supernatural threats. Each member’s unique skills and strengths are crucial, fostering a reliance on allies to overcome challenges. This collaborative approach enhances the narrative and ensures collective success in the face of horrors.
The game mechanics encourage players to work together, combining their abilities to achieve common goals. By relying on one another, investigators can mitigate risks and endure the psychological and physical strains of their perilous assignments.
10.2 Survival Strategies in Supernatural Encounters
Survival in Candela Obscura demands strategic thinking and resource management. Investigators must leverage their unique skills, use the environment to their advantage, and know when to retreat. Nerve, cunning, and intuition are vital in navigating terrifying encounters, while teamwork ensures collective resilience. Understanding the mechanics of supernatural threats and adapting strategies is key to enduring the horrors they face.
Digital and Physical Availability
Candela Obscura is available as a PDF through the Demiplane Nexus and in physical form through local game stores. The 204-page core rulebook offers a comprehensive guide.
Players can also purchase digital bundles, including character builders and interactive sheets, enhancing their gameplay experience with convenient digital tools and resources.
11.1 Purchasing Options and Bundle Deals
Candela Obscura is available digitally as a PDF through the Demiplane Nexus, with bundle deals offering discounted access to the core rulebook and additional resources. Players can also purchase a physical copy, featuring a satin bookmark for easy navigation. The game’s digital tools, including character builders and interactive sheets, enhance gameplay for online sessions.
Bundle deals provide cost-effective ways to access the complete Candela Obscura experience, combining the core rulebook with digital tools and expansions. Physical copies are available in local game stores, ensuring accessibility for both online and offline enthusiasts.
11.2 Availability in Local Game Stores
Physical copies of the Candela Obscura Core Rulebook are available in local game stores, offering players the convenience of browsing and purchasing in person. These stores often host community events and provide a space for enthusiasts to connect, making them a hub for both acquiring the game and engaging with fellow players.
Candela Obscura offers a unique blend of dark themes, strategic gameplay, and immersive storytelling, making it a standout choice for horror TTRPG enthusiasts.
12.1 Final Thoughts on Candela Obscura as a TTRPG
Candela Obscura stands out as a masterful blend of horror, strategic gameplay, and immersive storytelling. Its unique mechanics and dark themes create a gripping experience, fostering teamwork and emotional investment. With its rich setting and extensive resources, including the core rulebook and digital tools, it offers a complete package for both newcomers and seasoned players seeking a chilling TTRPG adventure.
12.2 Future Prospects and Player Engagement
Candela Obscura’s future looks promising, with growing community support and regular content updates. The availability of digital tools and resources on platforms like Demiplane enhances player engagement. Homebrew assignments and single-player options cater to diverse preferences, ensuring the game remains fresh and accessible. As more players join, the potential for collaborative storytelling and shared horror experiences continues to expand, solidifying its place in the TTRPG landscape.
