Friends in Dark Places

Friends in Dark Places is a set of quick and easy rules for including hirelings and retainers in your Shadowdark RPG game. It uses the same d20 check mechanic and includes hiring, loyalty and sample retainers.

Shadowdark intentionally omits rules for retainers and hirelings to enhance the “dark and lonely” vibe as opposed to having 20 paid henchmen used as trap fodder à la TSR-era D&D. Still, they may also be useful in Shadowdark to fill out small parties or to just have someone watch the horses while you sneak around in a hole searching for treasure. As with all things, use your judgment and do what’s best for your table.

Feedback always welcome!