Powered by the Apocalypse (PBTA) games are known for their narrative focus and simple mechanics. While popular titles like Apocalypse World and Dungeon World often steal the spotlight, there are many lesser-known PBTA games that offer fresh settings and creative storytelling. Here’s a quick look at 10 underrated PBTA games worth checking out:
- City of Judas: Low-magic fantasy with a gritty tone and unique combat mechanics.
- Ghost Lines: Supernatural adventures with ghostly mysteries and frontier survival.
- The Warren: Survival drama featuring intelligent rabbits inspired by Watership Down.
- Dream Askew: GM-less storytelling about queer communities in a post-collapse world.
- Alas for the Awful Sea: Maritime tales blending human struggles with supernatural elements.
- Sagas of the Icelanders: Historical realism set in 10th-century Iceland with a focus on family and honor.
- Epyllion: Lighthearted fantasy about young dragons navigating friendship and dark threats.
- Night Witches: Historical drama about Soviet female pilots during WWII, balancing combat and camaraderie.
- Uncharted Worlds: Space opera with collaborative world-building and character-driven stories.
- Undying: Vampire politics and intrigue spanning centuries, emphasizing influence over combat.
These games showcase the flexibility of the PBTA system, offering a variety of genres and playstyles. Whether you prefer historical settings, emotional storytelling, or fantastical adventures, there’s something here for every group.
Quick Comparison Table
| Game | Genre/Theme | Players | Session Length | Complexity | Key Mechanics |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| City of Judas | Low-Magic Fantasy | 3-5 | 3-4 hours | Medium | Abstract combat, resource management |
| Ghost Lines | Supernatural Western | 3-6 | 2-3 hours | Medium | Spirit communication, haunted tech |
| The Warren | Survival/Animal Drama | 3-5 | 2-4 hours | Low | Panic system, generational storytelling |
| Dream Askew | Queer Post-Apocalypse | 3-6 | 2-3 hours | Low | GM-less, community building |
| Alas for the Awful Sea | Maritime Horror | 3-5 | 3-4 hours | Medium-High | Sanity, supernatural mysteries |
| Sagas of the Icelanders | Historical Drama | 3-5 | 3-5 hours | Medium-High | Family honor, Viking politics |
| Epyllion | Fantasy/Dragons | 3-5 | 2-3 hours | Low | Friendship bonds, coming-of-age themes |
| Night Witches | WWII Aviation | 3-5 | 3-4 hours | Medium-High | Stress mechanics, wartime decisions |
| Uncharted Worlds | Space Opera | 3-6 | 3-4 hours | Medium | Galactic exploration, faction politics |
| Undying | Vampire Politics | 3-4 | 3-5 hours | High | Memory-driven narratives, intrigue |
PBTA games are simple to learn and quick to play, making them ideal for groups seeking narrative-driven experiences without complex rules. Pick a game that matches your interests and dive into a new adventure today!
Why it's a struggle to get into PbtA games
What Makes PBTA Games Different
Powered by the Apocalypse (PBTA) games stand out for their straightforward mechanics and storytelling focus. At their core is a simple 2d6 system: roll two six-sided dice, add a stat, and interpret the result. A roll of 10 or higher means success, 7–9 brings partial success with complications, and 6 or less hands narrative control to the GM. This structure keeps the game dynamic, prioritizing story progression over crunch-heavy calculations.
Playbooks are the heart of PBTA character creation. Instead of piecing together characters through point-buy systems or random rolls, players select from pre-designed playbooks. Each playbook comes with unique moves, stats, and narrative prompts, offering a ready-made role in the story. For example, the Fighter in Dungeon World and the Battlebabe in Apocalypse World may both excel in combat, but their playbooks lead to entirely different playstyles and story arcs.
The move system ties mechanics directly to the narrative. Moves are triggered by in-game fiction, with examples like "Act Under Fire" or "Read a Situation." This ensures that mechanics support the unfolding story rather than interrupt it. Players influence the world through their moves, while the GM steers the narrative in response. This collaborative approach creates unpredictable, shared storytelling moments that surprise everyone at the table.
What sets underrated PBTA games apart is their willingness to experiment. While popular titles often stick to familiar genres like fantasy or post-apocalyptic worlds, lesser-known games push boundaries with unconventional settings and mechanics. Some eliminate the traditional GM role entirely, others focus on emotional storytelling, and many explore themes rarely touched by mainstream tabletop RPGs.
For example, The Warren uses PBTA mechanics to depict the lives of rabbit communities facing existential threats, while Night Witches immerses players in the lives of Soviet female bomber pilots during World War II. These games don’t just re-skin existing mechanics; they rethink how PBTA’s framework can serve entirely new narrative purposes.
The thematic variety in these lesser-known PBTA games means there’s something for everyone. Horror fans can delve into cosmic dread, history enthusiasts can explore specific time periods, and those looking for lighter fare can enjoy games centered on community building or personal relationships. Each game adapts its moves, playbooks, and mechanics to suit its theme, creating experiences that feel deeply connected to their settings.
PBTA games are also incredibly approachable. With minimal preparation, simple rules, and a focus on improvisation, they’re great for groups with limited time or for players who might feel overwhelmed by complex systems. Their emphasis on narrative makes them especially appealing to those who love character-driven stories over tactical combat or resource management.
The experimental spirit of many underrated PBTA games continues to push the boundaries of what tabletop RPGs can achieve. Some blend different media or tackle serious, thought-provoking subjects, crafting experiences that feel fresh and impactful. These creative risks result in games that offer perspectives and stories rarely found in more mainstream titles. This willingness to innovate lays the foundation for the unique and experimental games we’ll explore later.
Understanding these mechanics and design choices reveals why each underrated PBTA game brings something special to the table.
1. City of Judas
City of Judas holds a significant place in PBTA history, not only for influencing Ironsworn but also for introducing mechanics that challenge traditional RPG design. Let’s dive into some of the game’s defining features.
One standout innovation is its abstract combat system. Instead of the usual damage tracking, combat in City of Judas revolves around building up to a climactic final blow. This approach shifts the focus from incremental damage to creating dramatic, story-driven moments.
Another notable feature is the game’s unique advantage die system, which gives players more tactical flexibility during gameplay. On top of that, its Spirit and Gear mechanics add a layer of resource management. However, some players have noted that certain playbooks struggle with Spirit regeneration during longer sessions, which can lead to challenges in maintaining balance.
Character progression is fast-paced, with players earning experience and leveling up quickly through the use of moves. While this rapid advancement can be exciting, some have described the system as “convoluted and unbalanced,” as it may feel overwhelming or uneven to certain players.
The playbooks in City of Judas are more restrictive compared to other PBTA games. For instance, the "Leader's Born to Lead" move has been flagged as particularly powerful, sometimes creating imbalances at the table. This rigidity might not appeal to players accustomed to more flexible character options.
The game’s low-magic fantasy setting is another highlight, offering a gritty, grounded tone reminiscent of Game of Thrones. Its religious backdrop provides fertile ground for exploring weighty themes like faith, power, and corruption, giving campaigns a deeper narrative foundation.
While City of Judas has some mechanical rough edges, its inventive approach delivers a fresh PBTA experience and has left a lasting mark on game design.
2. Ghost Lines
Ghost Lines is a Powered by the Apocalypse (PBTA) game that invites players into a world filled with supernatural intrigue and haunting tales. Instead of sticking to a rigid setting, it focuses on weaving mysterious narratives through collaborative storytelling. This makes it a perfect pick for those who love atmospheric challenges and getting lost in immersive ghostly adventures.
3. The Warren
The Warren invites players into a world where intelligent rabbits navigate the challenges of survival. Here, success hinges on quick thinking, collaboration, and resourcefulness rather than brute strength. Drawing inspiration from classic rabbit tales like Watership Down, this game offers a blend of tranquil moments and heart-pounding tension. Built on a heavily modified Powered by the Apocalypse (PBTA) framework, it introduces mechanics that feel fresh while staying true to its unique setting.
In this game, characters share a core set of moves, influenced by stats and one unique Character Move. This simplicity makes it approachable for newcomers while still delivering the narrative depth that PBTA enthusiasts cherish.
The mechanics reflect the realities of rabbit life. Instead of focusing on combat, players rely on speed and cleverness to escape predators or navigate other dangers. Often, running away is the safest choice, creating intense, high-stakes moments that demand creativity and quick decision-making.
One standout feature is the Panic score, a mechanic reminiscent of sanity systems in horror games. Managing this score becomes crucial, as letting it spiral can lead to permanent "Scars" that limit a character's abilities. This adds a layer of strategy and emotional weight to the gameplay.
Another highlight is the game's focus on generational storytelling. Campaigns unfold across changing seasons, allowing players to experience the evolving lives of their rabbit community. This approach deepens the narrative and creates a sense of continuity and legacy.
The Warren has earned high praise for its inventive approach to the PBTA system:
"The most ingenious, yet familiar, implementation of the Powered by the Apocalypse system I've seen." – Mikael Andersson
Even Jason Morningstar, a renowned game designer, acknowledges its unique tone:
"The Warren is the harshest, darkest interpretation of Apocalypse World I have ever seen." – Jason Morningstar
Despite its animal protagonists, this game doesn't shy away from mature themes. The constant threat of predators, environmental challenges, and limited resources keeps the stakes high. However, it’s flexible enough to be adapted for younger audiences. For example, moves like "Best Friend" can replace "Mate", and the level of violence can be adjusted to suit the group.
Players often highlight the emotional depth of the game:
"The Warren provided the perfect mix of bucolic frolicking and tragic horror that I love in games." – Jason Pitre
Whether you're drawn to its tense survival scenarios or its heartfelt moments, The Warren offers a gaming experience that leaves a lasting impression.
4. Dream Askew
Dream Askew invites players into a world where queer communities navigate life after societal collapse. Instead of a single apocalyptic event, the collapse unfolds gradually, pushing marginalized groups to come together and reimagine what living - and thriving - can look like. In this setting, players take on roles of queer individuals who were already living on the edges of society before the world began to unravel. Their journey isn’t just about survival; it’s about healing, rebuilding, and creating a community that surpasses the limitations of the old systems that failed them.
The game delves into themes of conflict, resilience, and hope, challenging players to uncover light amidst upheaval. For those drawn to stories that highlight queer voices and emphasize the strength of community, Dream Askew delivers an intimate and thought-provoking experience. Like many lesser-known PBTA games, it shifts the focus toward deeply personal and transformative narratives, further cementing PBTA's reputation for delivering rich, diverse storytelling.
5. Alas for the Awful Sea
Alas for the Awful Sea is a PBTA game that plunges players into a maritime world filled with mystery and tension. Set within a coastal community, the game invites participants to step into the lives of those who rely on the ocean not just for survival but as the very heart of their existence. It’s a story of human connections, where the struggles of daily life intertwine with eerie supernatural forces lurking beneath the waves.
What sets this game apart is its focus on community. Every choice made by the players ripples through the group, emphasizing how interconnected their fates are. Players must navigate the delicate balance of managing resources while braving unseen dangers during each voyage.
The game masterfully combines historical settings with supernatural intrigue, creating a space to explore powerful themes like obsession, sacrifice, and moral dilemmas. It challenges players to reflect on humanity's fragile relationship with nature and the mysteries that lie beyond our understanding.
6. Sagas of the Icelanders
Moving away from coastal mysteries and into the realm of historical realism, Sagas of the Icelanders immerses players in a rich narrative rooted in 10th-century Icelandic life.
This game draws inspiration from medieval sagas that weave together historical facts and fictional storytelling. Through the lens of settlers and households, players get a glimpse into Norse culture, experiencing the customs, struggles, and daily rhythms of life in early Iceland. Every choice made in the game reflects the values of the time - family, community, honor, loyalty, justice, and survival - showing how deeply interconnected these aspects were in shaping the lives of individuals and their households.
One of the standout elements of Sagas of the Icelanders is its portrayal of women in Viking-age society. Female characters play pivotal roles, whether by influencing major events, resolving or fueling conflicts, or managing the intricacies of household life. This approach highlights the historical reality of women’s agency during this era, offering a nuanced perspective that enriches the gameplay.
For those interested in exploring the complexities of family relationships and the importance of community ties, Sagas of the Icelanders provides a mature and thoughtful experience. It’s a perfect choice for groups looking to dive into the challenges and triumphs of medieval life through a deeply human lens.
sbb-itb-b8b00a5
7. Epyllion
Epyllion lets players step into the scales of young dragons living in the mystical land of Dragonia. Published by Magpie Games and built on the Powered by the Apocalypse system, this game casts you as drakes - the offspring of legendary Dragonlords - on a mission to investigate unsettling rumors and confront an ominous Darkness threatening their world.
True to the creative spirit of earlier PBTA games, Epyllion offers a fresh take by centering the story on a close-knit group of young dragons. The game puts a spotlight on friendship, weaving it into every aspect of the narrative. As players tackle external challenges and navigate the ups and downs of their relationships, the story unfolds through a shared, collaborative effort.
The game strikes a balance between lighthearted, whimsical adventures and more serious, darker themes, seamlessly shifting between the two. This flexibility in tone makes it a great choice for groups who enjoy campaigns that can be playful one moment and deeply emotional the next.
Epyllion is especially welcoming to new players. It uses the familiar PBTA mechanics where you roll 2d6, add ability modifiers, and aim for a 10+ for success, a 7–9 for mixed outcomes, or a 6 or below for failure (which earns you experience). The dragon theme and cooperative focus make these mechanics feel natural and easy to grasp.
For those who love character-driven stories and teamwork, Epyllion offers a unique fantasy adventure. Through the eyes of young dragons discovering their world and themselves, players create unforgettable stories that celebrate the power of friendship and collaboration in overcoming challenges.
8. Night Witches
Night Witches places players in a gripping historical setting on the Eastern Front of World War II, where they step into the roles of Soviet airwomen embarking on dangerous night missions. The game draws its inspiration from the real-life female pilots who defied societal norms and faced the harsh realities of wartime service.
The story delves into the dual struggles these women endured - earning recognition for their bravery while navigating the rigid and often unforgiving military hierarchy. Players must juggle the demands of combat with the pursuit of respect and acknowledgment in an environment fraught with challenges. Without glorifying war, Night Witches immerses players in the historical atmosphere, offering a vivid window into the trials and triumphs of these remarkable airwomen. The game seamlessly integrates its mechanics with a narrative that captures both the intensity of combat and the quieter, more personal moments of life during wartime.
One of the game's standout features is its fixed campaign structure. The story progresses through a series of operations that evolve alongside the shifting dynamics of the war, reflecting changes in mission objectives and technological advancements.
The mechanics include a stress system that mirrors the physical and emotional toll of warfare. Players must carefully manage their characters' well-being, as every decision impacts not only their individual performance but also the cohesion and effectiveness of the group.
Through collaborative storytelling, players craft scenes that blend high-stakes aerial combat with reflective, human moments. This balance enriches the narrative while fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared struggle among the characters.
For those looking for a gaming experience with historical roots and emotional resonance, Night Witches delivers a compelling journey into a dramatic chapter of history, celebrating themes of bravery, sacrifice, and the unbreakable bonds of sisterhood.
9. Uncharted Worlds
Uncharted Worlds is a PBTA game that plunges players into the heart of a space opera adventure. From exploring distant galaxies to navigating interstellar politics and encountering alien civilizations, the game thrives on rich, narrative-driven gameplay.
What sets this game apart is its emphasis on collaboration. Players and GMs work together to craft unique star systems and alien cultures, shaping a universe that feels alive and personal. Instead of bogging down in detailed combat mechanics or strict resource tracking, Uncharted Worlds focuses on character growth and storytelling. Each session unfolds like a new chapter in an epic cosmic tale, where the story evolves organically through the choices and actions of the players.
For groups craving a science fiction experience that sparks creativity and encourages deep roleplaying, Uncharted Worlds delivers a setting brimming with opportunities for exploration, discovery, and unexpected narrative turns. It’s a game where the journey is just as thrilling as the destination.
10. Undying
Undying breathes new life into vampire lore using the PBTA framework, shining a spotlight on political intrigue and the subtle, far-reaching influence of immortal beings throughout history. What sets this game apart is how it weaves memory and the passage of time into its mechanics, creating a narrative experience that feels as timeless as the creatures it portrays.
Instead of focusing on combat, Undying leans heavily into storytelling, using flashbacks and historical scenes to explore centuries of vampire existence. Players delve into how these immortal beings interact with mortal institutions, shape societal trends, and navigate relationships that stretch across decades - if not centuries - of political scheming. It’s a game of influence, strategy, and the ripple effects of decisions made long ago.
The gameplay encourages players to dig deep into their characters' histories, using their extended lifespans to create complex, layered narratives. But every decision comes with a cost, as recalling the past can bring both advantages and unforeseen complications.
If you enjoy rich political drama and characters with intricate backstories, Undying offers a refreshing perspective on the vampire mythos that’s sure to draw you in.
Game Comparison Table
Here's a handy guide to help you choose from ten PBTA games. This table breaks down key details like genre, player count, session duration, complexity, and standout mechanics. Below the table, you'll find quick explanations of what these columns mean for your gaming experience.
| Game | Genre/Theme | Players | Session Length | Complexity | Key Mechanics |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| City of Judas | Urban Horror/Religious | 3-5 | 3-4 hours | Medium | Corruption tracking, moral choices, divine intervention |
| Ghost Lines | Supernatural Western | 3-6 | 2-3 hours | Medium | Spirit communication, frontier survival, haunted technology |
| The Warren | Survival/Animal Drama | 3-5 | 2-4 hours | Low | Predator evasion, warren building, rabbit society dynamics |
| Dream Askew | Queer Post-Apocalypse | 3-6 | 2-3 hours | Low | GM-less play, community building, identity exploration |
| Alas for the Awful Sea | Maritime Horror | 3-5 | 3-4 hours | Medium-High | Sanity mechanics, oceanic mysteries, Victorian atmosphere |
| Sagas of the Icelanders | Historical Drama | 3-5 | 3-5 hours | Medium-High | Seasonal play, family honor, Viking Age politics |
| Epyllion | Fantasy/Dragons | 3-5 | 2-3 hours | Low | Friendship bonds, dragon magic, coming-of-age stories |
| Night Witches | WWII Aviation | 3-5 | 3-4 hours | Medium-High | Historical accuracy, duty vs. bonds, wartime stress |
| Uncharted Worlds | Space Opera | 3-6 | 3-4 hours | Medium | Ship management, faction politics, galactic exploration |
| Undying | Vampire Politics | 3-4 | 3-5 hours | High | Memory mechanics, historical flashbacks, political intrigue |
This table complements earlier discussions on PBTA innovations by helping you identify which game matches your narrative style and mechanical preferences.
Complexity refers to how much preparation and rules knowledge is needed. If you're new to PBTA games, The Warren and Dream Askew are great starting points with simpler systems. On the other hand, games like Undying cater to groups ready to dive into intricate mechanics and layered storytelling.
Session length depends on your group's pace. For shorter, episodic gameplay, Epyllion works well. Meanwhile, games like Sagas of the Icelanders are perfect for longer, story-driven campaigns.
Player count flexibility is another factor to consider. Games like Dream Askew and Ghost Lines are ideal for larger groups, making them a good choice for events or gatherings. In contrast, Undying thrives in smaller groups, where its focus on political intrigue can fully shine.
Finally, the key mechanics column highlights what makes each game stand out. For instance, Night Witches emphasizes historical accuracy and emotional depth, while Dream Askew offers a collaborative, GM-less experience. Each game brings something distinct to the table, ensuring there's something for every group and play style.
How to Find and Buy PBTA Games
Looking to dive into the world of PBTA games? There are plenty of ways to discover and purchase these underrated gems, whether you prefer digital formats or physical copies. Here's where to start:
Digital hubs like DriveThruRPG are a treasure trove for PBTA fans, offering a vast selection of PDFs and print-on-demand options. If you're after high-quality physical books, Indie Press Revolution is a fantastic choice, boasting an extensive catalog of indie tabletop RPGs, including PBTA titles. Buying directly from a publisher's website is another great option - many publishers offer exclusive content or special editions, and it’s a more direct way to support the creators.
For a comprehensive overview, the official PBTA website (http://apocalypse-world.com/pbta/games/browse/titles) is an invaluable resource. It lists a wide range of PBTA games and provides direct links to purchase them. Don’t overlook your local game store, either - these community hubs often carry a selection of PBTA games and can sometimes place special orders for titles they don’t normally stock.
If you're exploring on a budget or want to try something new, platforms like Itch.io sometimes offer PBTA games under open licenses or at accessible price points, making it easy for new players to jump in.
When choosing a format, consider what works best for your group. PDFs are convenient for those who like using digital tools, and they typically cost between $10 and $20. On the other hand, physical books bring a tactile, classic feel to your sessions, with prices ranging from $25 to $50, depending on the edition. Special editions, of course, may cost a bit more but often come with extra perks.
No matter where you shop or which format you choose, PBTA games offer immersive storytelling experiences that are well worth the investment.
Conclusion
Looking at the mechanics and themes of these games, it’s clear how they stand out. The PBTA system is a flexible tool for storytelling, and these ten games each bring something fresh to the table, offering unique narrative journeys.
These titles take familiar mechanics and push them in unexpected directions. Some let you step into non-human perspectives, others encourage group storytelling without a traditional game master, and a few dive into historical settings or explore deep themes like immortality. Each game reshapes the PBTA framework in its own way, giving players something new to explore.
What’s even better? PBTA games are easy to pick up and quick to learn, making them perfect for long, immersive sessions that move beyond the usual dungeon-crawl formula.
If you’re ready to expand your gaming repertoire, there’s no better time. With a variety of price points, diving into these games is both fun and budget-friendly. Choose one that matches your interests - whether you’re into atmospheric tension, imaginative role-playing, or rich historical storytelling.
Grab some friends, pick a setting that excites you, and see how PBTA transforms your storytelling. Who knows? Your next favorite game might be just a download away.
FAQs
What makes Powered by the Apocalypse (PBTA) games stand out from other tabletop RPGs?
PBTA games shine because they prioritize collaborative storytelling and player-driven narratives. Rather than sticking to strict rules or pre-made settings, both players and GMs (Game Masters) work together to shape the world, develop characters, and unfold the story during gameplay.
One of the best parts? These games require minimal preparation, making them a great choice for newcomers and seasoned players alike. Each PBTA game is built around a specific genre or theme, offering a wide range of experiences while focusing on creativity, improvisation, and shared storytelling. This approach, with its emphasis on player freedom, offers an exciting alternative to more traditional, rule-heavy RPG systems.
What makes GM-less games like Dream Askew different from traditional PBTA games?
GM-less games, such as Dream Askew, break away from the norm by eliminating the traditional role of the Game Master (GM), a staple in most PBTA games. Instead of relying on one person to steer the story, all players share the responsibility for shaping the narrative, managing the setting, and introducing challenges.
This collaborative approach levels the playing field, giving everyone an equal say in the direction of the game. It also sparks creativity and improvisation, as players juggle multiple roles and work together to keep the story moving without a central guiding figure.
How can I pick the best PBTA game for my group's interests and experience level?
Choosing the Right PBTA Game for Your Group
When picking a PBTA game for your group, start by focusing on the themes they enjoy most. Whether it’s fantasy, horror, or sci-fi, aligning the game’s setting with their interests will make the experience more immersive.
You’ll also want to think about the game’s complexity. Some PBTA games are great for beginners, offering straightforward mechanics, while others are designed for seasoned players who enjoy diving into more detailed systems.
Finally, consider the tone and playstyle your group gravitates toward. Are they drawn to character-driven stories, collaborative world-building, or something with a more tactical edge? Choosing a game that matches their preferences will help ensure everyone stays engaged and has a great time.
