We all know that I love things that go bump in the night. Which makes the Ravenloft campaign setting in Dungeons and Dragons from Wizards of the Coast one of my all-time favorites. So when they announced Van Richten’s Guide to Ravenloft, I lost my little horror-loving mind. It unleashes a treasure trove of new story hooks, character options and customizations to bring horror to your own campaign!

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I’ve read through the campaign book twice and have already made changes to a current character I am playing – hello, new College of Spirits! There is also a new patron of warlocks and character backgrounds that can give players the dark backstory they have always wanted. These customizations can even be used outside of the Ravenloft campaign setting with a few minor tweaks.

Van Richten and Ez searching out Strahd ont he cover of Van Richten's Guide to Ravenloft.

The cover of Van Richten’s Guide to Ravenloft.

For the first time in 5E, we see the return of Ravenloft’s Domains of Dread. There is so much information for them in Van Richten’s Guide to Ravenloft. The book gives a brief overview before breaking down noteworthy features, settlements and sites, the domains Darklord, possible adventures and the focus of each domain. Seriously, everything you need to know when setting up your never terrifying adventure.

Honestly, though, my favorite part of Van Richten’s Guide to Ravenloft is all of the characters we are introduced (and reintroduced) to. Of course, we see Count Strahd von Zarovich and Van Richten himself. But we are also introduced to a plethora of other characters to introduce to your adventures. Each one has a brief backstory, their ideals, bonds, flaws and information on how they will interact with your adventuring party.

Guys, Van Richten’s Guide to Ravenloft is a must-have for your Dungeons and Dragons collection. If you have ever thought of creating a campaign or one-shot in Ravenloft, this has everything you need to get started. Plus, a lot of the character customizations can be used in other settings as well if you are looking for a way to scare your players.

If you haven’t gotten the chance to see what all this world brings, I highly suggest checking out the Black Dice Society. B. Dave Walters leads Becca Scott, Deejay Knight, Mark Meer, Noura Ibrahim, Saige Ryan and Tanya Depass through The Domains of Dread. The six souls struggle to survive their journey through the Mists while the Darklords plot their own escape. This is a definite must-watch for those fans of the Ravenloft campaign!

Van Richten’s Guide to Ravenloft is available starting today in stores and online. The alternative cover featuring a distinctive design and soft-touch finish can be found at your local game stores. So what are you waiting for? It’s time to get spooked! Are you exciting to add this to your Dungeons and Dragons game? Let us know in the comments below and on social media.

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