Arcanis

Arcanis is a fictional world setting created for the Arcanis: The World of Shattered Empires role-playing game. Published initially by Paradigm Entertainment and later by Living Room Games, Arcanis blends elements of high fantasy, dark fantasy, and heroic fantasy, drawing inspiration from historical cultures and mythologies, particularly those of Europe, the Mediterranean, and the Near East.

Setting Overview:

Arcanis is a world scarred by a cataclysm known as the Schism, an event where the gods warred directly with each other, shattering the once-unified continent and leaving behind residual magical energies and monstrous threats. The dominant power in Arcanis is the Empire of the Seven Kingdoms, a fractious alliance of nations held together by a powerful Emperor. Each kingdom possesses its own distinct culture, traditions, and political ambitions, leading to constant intrigue and conflict within the Empire.

Beyond the Empire, other significant powers exist, including independent city-states, tribal societies, and monstrous kingdoms. The world is populated by a variety of races, including humans, elves, dwarves, halflings, gnomes, and others, each with their own unique place in the world. Magic is a prevalent force, both revered and feared, and plays a crucial role in the political, social, and military landscapes.

Key Themes:

• Political Intrigue: The delicate balance of power within the Empire of the Seven Kingdoms provides ample opportunities for political maneuvering, espionage, and outright warfare.

• Ancient Mysteries: The Schism left behind a legacy of lost knowledge, powerful artifacts, and lingering dangers, driving exploration and adventure.

• Good vs. Evil: The forces of good and evil are constantly at odds, with individuals and nations struggling to uphold morality in a world rife with corruption and darkness.

• Heroic Struggle: Despite the grim realities of Arcanis, the setting emphasizes the potential for individuals to overcome adversity and make a positive impact on the world.

Role-Playing Game Adaptations:

• Arcanis: The World of Shattered Empires (originally using the Dungeons & Dragons 3rd Edition system, and later a custom system called "Unisystem").
• Arcanis 5E (adaptation for Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition).