
CoD · New World of Darkness · nWoD
Chronicles of Darkness
Chronicles of Darkness places contemporary lives on a collision course with the uncanny. The city resembles yours, but behind every door lies something peculiar. You can play as determined mortals, or step into the night as a vampire, werewolf, or other creature of the dark. The stories intertwine investigation, dread, and difficult choices, with consequences that linger. If you seek grounded urban fantasy with a horror twist, this is an excellent choice.
At the table, sessions feel like a thriller you help to script. You delve into clues, confront unsettling truths, and decide what price you are willing to pay. A professional Game Master sets the tone, keeps scenes sharp, and highlights each character's choices. It caters to both newcomers and veterans. Perfect for moody one-shots, adult birthday groups that enjoy a fright, or team events focused on problem-solving and trust.
How to play Chronicles of Darkness
You create a dice pool using a character's Attribute and Skill, roll that many ten-sided dice, and count 8s, 9s, and 10s as successes. One success is sufficient, while more successes achieve the task more efficiently. Rolling a ten usually allows for an additional roll for extra hits. On your turn, you declare your action, the Game Master sets risks and modifiers, and then you roll. In opposed actions, successes are compared, and failure introduces complications to the story rather than leading to dead ends.
What you need: a character concept with a few motivations, a readiness to make tough decisions, and some d10s, or you can use an online roller. A professional Game Master offers pre-generated characters for one-shots or assists in creating custom sheets, teaches the rules as you play, and provides maps, handouts, and atmosphere. Online play is seamless through voice chat and shared dice rollers; see online play options.
One-shots focus on a contained mystery or monster hunt, quick character setup, and a clear climax centred around a difficult choice. Campaigns delve deeper into personal horror and conspiracies, featuring evolving relationships, long-term consequences, and the opportunity to transition from mortal investigations to life among the monsters if desired. Progression is steady, and recurring NPCs and factions ensure that every victory feels well-earned.



Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to know the setting or the rules before we play?
No. In CofD, the core dice pool is straightforward to grasp in just a few minutes. A professional Game Master will guide you through the process and manage the calculations. For one-shots, you can use pre-made characters. For campaigns, you can develop your characters from a concept together. All you need is a character idea and what frightens or motivates them. Your decisions at the table are more significant than mastering the rules.
Are we playing as mortals or monsters, and can we mix the two?
You select the lens. Mortals or Hunters are ideal for newcomers and one-shots. Playing as a vampire, werewolf, mage, or other creature is better suited for longer story arcs. Mixing types is possible, but it introduces complexity and secrecy costs. Our Game Masters can adjust power levels and threats to ensure everyone has their moment to shine. For a first game, using a single template across the group helps maintain a consistent tone and keeps the drama focused.
Which edition are you running, and which CofD lines can we select?
Most tables use 2nd Edition rules, including modern Conditions and Beats. If you prefer 1st Edition, let us know, and a professional Game Master will accommodate your choice. Popular lines include Vampire: The Requiem, Werewolf: The Forsaken, Mage: The Awakening, Changeling: The Lost, Hunter: The Vigil, Geist, Promethean, Demon, Beast, Deviant, and Mummy. Choose one line for a fresh start, or discuss a crossover if your group is experienced.
How does this differ from D&D?
Chronicles of Darkness is a modern horror and mystery game, rather than a heroic fantasy. Conflicts are swift and perilous, with social or investigative interactions frequently determining outcomes. There is minimal grid-based combat or gear optimisation. Characters develop through Aspirations and difficult decisions, rather than merely accumulating treasure. The rules integrate consequences into the narrative, meaning that failure introduces new challenges rather than halting progress. It encourages strategic thinking, empathy, and moral bravery.
Is this the same as Vampire: The Masquerade?
It is a sibling, not the same game. Vampire: The Masquerade is part of the World of Darkness line. Chronicles of Darkness employs different lore and rules. Vampire: The Requiem is its vampire game, featuring less metaplot and a focus on local stories and personal horror. If your group specifically wants Masquerade, please mention it when you book so the appropriate option is provided.
What level of content should we expect? Is it suitable for teenagers?
CofD explores mature themes such as violence, manipulation, and trauma. It is not appropriate for children. For teenagers, it is important to discuss goals and boundaries beforehand. Our Game Masters employ clear safety tools, establish lines and veils with you, and can focus on mystery and consequence rather than graphic content. You can select tones ranging from bleak to hopeful. Consent and comfort are fundamental in shaping the final narrative.
Does Chronicles of Darkness function well online?
Yes. CofD’s dice pools and handouts work seamlessly on voice chat with a shared roller or VTT, and the pacing of horror suits online play. A professional Game Master will supply tools and teach the necessary technology as required. You only need a microphone, a stable internet connection, and a quiet space. See supported options on online play platforms.
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