Dark Heresy (role-playing game)

Dark Heresy is a tabletop role-playing game published by Fantasy Flight Games, set in the grim darkness of the far future of Warhammer 40,000. Players take on the roles of Acolytes in the service of an Inquisitor, tasked with investigating and combating heresy, corruption, and xenos threats within the Imperium of Man.

The game utilizes a percentile-based system, often referred to as a d100 system, where players roll a two-digit number against a target number based on their skills and attributes. Success is determined by rolling equal to or under the target number. The system incorporates degrees of success and failure, influencing the narrative impact of actions.

Acolytes can choose from a variety of character origins and roles, including: Adepts (scholars and analysts), Arbitrators (law enforcers), Assassins (covert operatives), Clerics (spiritual leaders), Guardsmen (veteran soldiers), Mystics (psykers), and Scum (opportunistic criminals). Each origin and role provides unique skills, talents, and equipment, shaping the Acolyte's abilities and contributions to the Inquisitor's team.

Gameplay in Dark Heresy typically revolves around investigating clues, interrogating suspects, engaging in combat, and navigating the complex politics of the Imperium. The game emphasizes investigation and role-playing, with combat often being a dangerous and desperate measure rather than a primary focus.

The setting of Dark Heresy is steeped in the themes of religious fanaticism, societal decay, and constant warfare that are characteristic of the Warhammer 40,000 universe. Acolytes operate in a clandestine environment, often facing moral dilemmas and compromising their own principles to serve the greater good (or their Inquisitor's interpretation thereof). The game's grim atmosphere and emphasis on player choice contribute to its distinctive appeal.

Dark Heresy has seen multiple editions, each with its own set of rules, expansions, and supporting materials. While the core concept remains consistent, different editions may offer variations in character creation, skill mechanics, and available careers. The original Dark Heresy was followed by Dark Heresy Second Edition, which revised the ruleset and expanded the character options. Additional supplements and adventure modules provide Game Masters with pre-written scenarios and resources to further develop their campaigns.