Penumbra Backdrops

Introduction

Backdrops is a collection of 15 location maps for use in D20.  But is it a useful supplement for a GM in need of maps for their game?

The Maps

Each map has a page’s worth of flavor text and optional D20 rules or items.  Every map is overlaid onto of a grid, so they are ready to be used in a D20 session.  Some examples in Backdrops are: Stables, Smithy, Temple, Tavern and wharf.  Each of the maps is well drawn with artful additions to them.  The maps also have annotations on them referring to rooms, rules notes or special items.

While Atlas Games suggests that these are ready to use locations, I have to differ.  Most of the maps require enlargement via Xeroxing.  Some are so large and require so much enlargement that a standard copying machine will not handle the maps in one go.  It would have been much better to have an overview map and then pages dedicated to each map at the 1’ equal five feet scale.  This would have been more convenient, but I guess it would have bumped the price up beyond the reasonable $8.95 and maybe the time, copying and taping is not such a big deal.

Flavor Text

Every map in Backdrops has a page of corresponding flavor text.  Some of it is simple informative text about the function of the building or area.  Also there is minor plot hooks and flavor inserted to give each map a distinctive feel.  I think this makes Backdrops a more interesting than many maps supplements, which can resemble the old Dungeon Geomorphs supplement by TSR; just walls, halls and doors..  Of course the flavor text can be ignored, if just a map for combat is needed and the role playing elements are not needed. 

D20 Stuff

Each map in Backdrops has a couple of snippets of d20 rules that might be useful for the map or the flavor text.  A couple of my favorites were the rules for damaging goods and such when fighting in the bazaar  of the hazardous conditions for moving and fighting on a wharf.  Most of these optional rules is useful for any campaign that a similar backdrop might be used.

The Bottom Line

Backdrops is a useful supplement with material that can be dropped into any D20 campaign.  The maps are interesting, well drawn, which make for nice locations for combat. The flavor text and rules make them interesting settings for role playing and gaming.  It would have been nice to have the maps presented in a 100% scale, but that is a minor complaint.