Aquelarre (role-playing game)

Aquelarre is a Spanish-language dark fantasy role-playing game (RPG) created by Ricard Ibáñez Ortiz and published by Joc Internacional in 1990. It is noted for its historical grounding in Medieval Iberia (specifically, the late 14th and early 15th centuries) and its focus on occult and demonic themes, drawing heavily on folklore, legends, and religious beliefs of the period.

Setting: Aquelarre is set primarily in the Crown of Aragon and surrounding areas of the Iberian Peninsula. The game world is a dark and dangerous place where belief in the supernatural is widespread, and demons, angels, and other mythical creatures are a tangible presence. The historical backdrop includes the Black Death, political intrigues, and the Reconquista, adding layers of complexity and realism to the setting. Unlike many fantasy RPGs, Aquelarre avoids high fantasy tropes such as elves and dwarves, opting instead for a grounded and gritty portrayal of medieval life intertwined with the supernatural.

System: Aquelarre utilizes a percentile-based (d100) system, often referred to as "7º Mar." Characters possess a range of skills and attributes, and success is determined by rolling under the target number on a d100. The system incorporates elements of realism, such as the impact of wounds and fatigue on character performance. It is generally regarded as having a slightly more complex and lethal system than many other RPGs, reflecting the perilous nature of the setting.

Character Creation: Characters in Aquelarre are defined by their professions, skills, and background. The character creation process allows players to create a wide range of characters from different social classes, backgrounds, and motivations, mirroring the diversity of medieval society. Characters can be anything from knights and merchants to peasants, clerics, and even individuals with a knowledge of the occult.

Themes: Aquelarre explores themes of faith, doubt, superstition, and the struggle against darkness. It confronts the horrors of the medieval period, including disease, poverty, and religious persecution, alongside the ever-present threat of demonic influence. The game also delves into the complexities of human nature, examining the motivations and consequences of individuals caught in a world of conflict and uncertainty. The game name itself, Aquelarre, refers to a witches' Sabbath, further highlighting the game's focus on the occult and its associated dangers.

Influence: Aquelarre has had a significant influence on the Spanish RPG scene and has gained a cult following internationally. Its focus on historical accuracy, dark themes, and a gritty portrayal of medieval life has set it apart from many other fantasy RPGs.

Editions: Aquelarre has seen several editions published, with each iteration refining and expanding upon the core rules and setting. Recent editions have sought to update the system while retaining the game's unique flavor and historical grounding.