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.
