Occult Investigation in the World of M. R. James
Casting the Runes is a roleplaying game based on the works of M.R. James¸ the father of the modern British ghost story¸ and uses the GUMSHOE system for investigative RPGs. The unique character of James's stories¸ and his own personality¸ inspire the game.
Player-characters ( "Investigators"¸ under the guidance of the Game Master¸ proceed step by step to unearth the unearthly¸ researching the uncanny¸ the sinister¸ and the supernatural¸ against the backdrop of Edwardian Britain. Adventures are based on the classic ghost story¸ replete with "malevolence and terror¸ the glare of evil faces¸ 'the stony grin of unearthly malice¸' pursuing forms in darkness¸ and 'long-drawn¸ distant screams.'
Step back in time¸ and into a shadowy world ¸ where demons are real¸ malevolent ghosts stalk the unwitting¸ and urbane¸ educated sorcerers pursue hideous knowledge in their bid to Cast the Runes...
Casting the Runes is a complete roleplaying game¸ and needs only some six sided dice¸ a few friends¸ and a willingness to explore the shadowy corners of the Edwardian Era. This book has everything else you need to create Edwardian Investigators¸ learn about and compellingly convey the Edwardian Period¸ structure occult investigations¸ and present the supernatural. It includes two introductory scenarios: The Coptic Lamp and The House With the Brick Kiln¸ so you can begin your investigations without delay.