Crowdfunding has transformed tabletop RPGs, enabling creators to bypass publishers and connect directly with backers. This shift has led to record-breaking campaigns and innovative games. Below are the top 10 crowdfunded RPGs that stand out for their funding achievements, fan engagement, and unique design elements:
- Cosmere Roleplaying Game: $15.1M raised in 2024, the highest-funded tabletop RPG ever.
- Avatar Legends: The Roleplaying Game: $9.5M raised in 2021, setting backer records with 81,587 supporters.
- Numenera by Monte Cook Games: Pioneered high crowdfunding totals for RPGs, with campaigns exceeding $500K.
- Onyx Path Publishing: Known for Chronicles of Darkness and Pugmire, offering diverse themes and mechanics.
- Humblewood by Hit Point Press: Introduced anthropomorphic characters and ecological themes, selling over 100K copies.
- Kobold Press: Expanded D&D 5E content with Tome of Beasts and Tales of the Valiant.
- Free League Publishing: Adapted popular IPs like The One Ring and Tales from the Loop into acclaimed RPGs.
- MCDM Productions: Revolutionized high-level D&D 5E play with Strongholds & Followers, raising $2.1M.
- Savage Worlds by Pinnacle Entertainment: A flexible system supporting multiple genres with quick gameplay.
- Dungeon Crawl Classics by Goodman Games: A retro-inspired RPG with chaotic mechanics and unique dice.
These campaigns highlight how creators leverage crowdfunding to bring ambitious projects to life, engage communities, and redefine RPG experiences.
Top 10 Crowdfunded Tabletop RPGs by Funding and Backers
The "Big Money" TTRPGs (besides D&D) on Kickstarter
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1. Magpie Games' Avatar Legends, Root, and Urban Shadows
Magpie Games made waves with Avatar Legends: The Roleplaying Game, which launched on Kickstarter in August 2021. It became the highest-funded tabletop RPG ever, raising an impressive $9,535,317 from 81,587 backers. The campaign smashed its $50,000 goal in just 16 minutes, hit $1,000,000 on the first day, and broke records within its first week. This incredible achievement positioned Magpie Games as a leader in narrative RPG innovation.
While Avatar Legends benefited from its ties to the beloved franchises Avatar: The Last Airbender and The Legend of Korra, its success also stemmed from Magpie Games' expertise in crafting narrative-rich experiences. The company utilizes the "Powered by the Apocalypse" system, which emphasizes character development through playbooks. This system also powers other standout titles like Root: The RPG and Urban Shadows.
These games have earned critical acclaim. Avatar Legends took home 2023 Gold ENNIE Awards for Best Rules and Best Family Game/Product. Root: The RPG claimed 2022 Silver ENNIE Awards for Best Game and Best Supplement, while Urban Shadows won a 2016 Silver ENNIE Award for Best Rules. Charlie Hall from Polygon praised Root: The RPG, calling it "a delightfully blank slate, ready for adventure".
"I think indie RPGs kind of give you that opportunity to exist in a world that you kind of get to curate in the way that you want to with people in a space that is safe."
- Anya Combs, Director of Games, Kickstarter
The Kickstarter campaign for Avatar Legends also showcased Magpie Games' ability to engage its backers. Stretch goals like additional NPCs, physical playbooks, and even velvet dice bags kept the excitement alive and highlighted the importance of staying connected with the community.
2. Monte Cook Games' Numenera and Cypher System
Monte Cook Games made waves in the tabletop RPG world when it launched Numenera on Kickstarter in August 2012. The campaign raised an impressive $517,255 from 4,658 backers, becoming the first tabletop RPG to surpass the $100,000 mark. Even more astonishing, it doubled its funding goal in just 24 hours. Originally envisioned as a single core rulebook, the campaign's success led to the creation of an entire game line through stretch goals.
Fast forward to 2017, the Numenera 2 Kickstarter campaign (Discovery and Destiny) raised $845,258 from 4,185 backers. Then, in March 2026, Numenera: The Amber Archive brought in $767,026 from 3,880 backers. These campaigns stood out by offering backers exclusive perks, including upgraded core books that were more luxurious than retail versions, autographed copies, and early access to manuscripts.
The 2026 Amber Archive campaign went even further, offering backers a free library of 45 PDF products - totaling an incredible 4,500 pages - with every pledge. Monte Cook Games also made a bold statement by adhering to a "100% AI Free" policy, ensuring all content was crafted entirely by human creators.
One of Numenera's standout features is its innovative character creation system, which uses a simple yet effective sentence structure: "I am a [Descriptor] [Type] who [Focus]es." This approach seamlessly blends roleplaying with gameplay. The game’s setting, the "Ninth World", is equally striking - a science-fantasy version of Earth set a billion years in the future, where ancient technology feels like magic. This distinctive vision helped Numenera win the 2014 Origins Award for "Best New Roleplaying Game".
"The book is splendidly designed and a pleasure to read. It's also packed with gorgeous artwork. This is exactly the kind of gamebook that makes you ache to pick up your dice and start playing."
- John ONeill, Black Gate
Monte Cook Games has set a new standard for crowdfunded tabletop RPGs, combining bold design choices with exclusive rewards that resonate deeply with fans.
3. Onyx Path Publishing's Chronicles of Darkness and Pugmire
Onyx Path Publishing has made a name for itself in crowdfunding, running over 80 campaigns by the end of 2025. Their success comes from managing two standout product lines: the supernatural horror series Chronicles of Darkness and the family-friendly fantasy game Pugmire. Each caters to a unique audience, creating a foundation for a variety of successful campaigns.
Pugmire became a sensation on Kickstarter in January 2016. Designed by Eddy Webb, the game set an initial goal of $15,000 but went on to raise an impressive $193,404 from 3,239 backers - over 1,200% of its target. The game’s setting is a post-human world where evolved dogs, treating humans as "the Old Ones", live by a "Code of Man." Its d20-based mechanics, adapted from the 5e OGL, make it easy for both new and seasoned players to dive in.
The Chronicles of Darkness series has also delivered strong campaigns. Take Demon: The Descent, for example. In November 2013, it raised $150,235 from 2,076 backers - 375% of its $40,000 goal. This game introduced a world of techgnostic espionage, where players take on the roles of fallen angels avoiding the omnipresent "God-Machine." Another standout was Changeling: The Lost 2nd Edition, which launched in November 2017. This campaign secured $166,290 from 2,500 backers, exceeding its $50,000 goal by 333%.
What sets Chronicles of Darkness apart is its streamlined mechanical system, which simplifies crossover play between supernatural archetypes like Vampire, Werewolf, and Mage. The "5 × 5" character creation system introduces five core supernatural types and five optional groups, making it easier to build and customize characters. Additionally, the series has moved away from the Gothic-Punk vibe of the 1990s, opting instead for a Modern Gothic aesthetic that emphasizes dark atmospheres, mystery, and localized, city-level intrigue.
To further broaden its appeal, Onyx Path has focused on producing high-quality physical products. Editions like "Prestige", "Deluxe", and "Retail" cater to collectors who value premium materials and presentation. By balancing supernatural horror with family-friendly fantasy, Onyx Path has solidified its position as a leading creator in the tabletop RPG world.
4. Hit Point Press' Humblewood
Hit Point Press has made a name for itself in the world of crowdfunded RPGs with Humblewood, a campaign setting that brings a fresh perspective to high fantasy by introducing anthropomorphic woodland creatures. The game divides its characters into two main groups: Birdfolk, who inhabit the canopy and include species like crows and owls, and Humblefolk, who live in the forest and feature animals such as deer and foxes. This imaginative twist on D&D 5th Edition has struck a chord with players, selling over 100,000 copies and earning four major industry awards, including the 2020 ENNIE Silver for Best Production Values. The setting weaves a story deeply connected to nature and the challenges of ecological balance.
The narrative focuses on the "Great Rhythm", a natural order disrupted by the Scorched Grove, where elemental fires have created an environmental crisis. This turmoil fuels tensions between the Birdfolk rulers and the displaced Humblefolk communities. The story's themes of environmental and social conflict feel especially timely. Players can dive into over 200 pages of content in the core campaign book, which includes adventures, setting details, and a bestiary.
Humblewood also introduces new mechanics to enhance the 5e experience. The setting features 10 core races (expanded to 16 in later supplements) and a unique Gadgeteer class. This class offers three distinct subclasses: the plant-manipulating Cultivator, the metal-crafting Engineer, and the magic-infused Fizzar. Additionally, there are nine thematic subclasses that align with the world’s narrative.
Designed to be accessible for newcomers while still offering depth for seasoned players, Humblewood appeals to fans of stories like Redwall, Secret of Nimh, and Bloomburrow. The setting's charm is further enhanced by premium extras, including animated spell cards, custom miniatures, and plush toys. The hardcover edition is priced at $59.99, while a box set is available for $109.99.
The campaign setting has been met with glowing reviews, earning a 4.9 out of 5 stars from customers. One verified buyer, Kathryn, shared:
"I love the fresh, complete feel of this campaign setting, the new races and skills".
The success of Humblewood extends to digital platforms as well, with official support available on D&D Beyond, Roll20, Foundry, and Alchemy.
5. Kobold Press' Third-Party D&D Books
Kobold Press has established itself as a leader in third-party publishing for D&D 5E, primarily through ambitious crowdfunded projects. The company is known for producing high-quality supplements that stay true to the core system while introducing fresh and creative content.
One of its standout offerings is the Tome of Beasts series, which adds a treasure trove of original monsters to the D&D bestiary. Alongside this, titles like Deep Magic and Vault of Magic have expanded the range of spells and magic items available to players. These projects highlight how crowdfunding allows publishers to tackle ambitious ideas that might not succeed in a traditional retail setting.
Kobold Press didn’t stop at supplements. They’ve ventured into full-scale system development with the Tales of the Valiant (ToV) system. This includes three new base classes - like the Vanguard - along with dozens of subclasses and hundreds of spells, all designed to be compatible with 5E D&D. Their independent "Black Flag" system is another example of how crowdfunding not only provides funding but also fosters strong relationships with the gaming community.
The company’s success isn’t just about the content; it’s also about how they connect with their audience. Events like "Kobold Con", "Pirates & Plunder" AMAs, and the weekly "Kobold Courier" newsletter keep fans engaged. They even offer perks like gift certificate giveaways to strengthen these ties. With a wide range of thematic content - from classic dungeon crawls to Viking-inspired adventures in Northlands - Kobold Press ensures there’s something for every type of campaign.
Their ability to deliver fresh ideas while building a loyal community exemplifies how crowdfunding continues to shape the future of tabletop RPGs.
6. Free League Publishing's The One Ring and Tales from the Loop
Free League Publishing has become known for turning well-loved intellectual properties into standout tabletop role-playing games. Their ability to combine beloved IPs with top-notch production has resulted in some of the most successful crowdfunding campaigns in the industry. Let’s take a closer look at two of their flagship projects that highlight this approach.
The One Ring, created by Francesco Nepitello, brings J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth to life in stunning detail. The game’s second edition received the Gold ENNIE award for Best Art, Interior in 2022, showcasing its visual appeal. For fans who prefer the popular 5E system, Free League also offers The Lord of the Rings Roleplaying, which bridges the gap between dedicated Tolkien systems and the familiar mechanics of Dungeons & Dragons.
Tales from the Loop, on the other hand, takes inspiration from Simon Stålenhag’s retro-futuristic artwork. This game reimagines a 1980s where particle accelerators have transformed the world. Using the Year Zero Engine, players step into the shoes of preteens (ages 10–15) who face strange mysteries. Characters don’t die but instead suffer "Conditions" like Scared or Injured, which impact their abilities. The success of this setting has led to expansions, including Things from the Flood (set in the 1990s) and The Electric State.
Between 2015 and 2022, Free League's Kickstarter campaigns brought in 100 million SEK (around $10 million). Their consistent success earned them "Publisher of the Year" at the ENNIE Awards in 2020, 2021, 2023, and 2024.
"As other TTRPG pubs keep self-sabotaging, Free League is running away with it"
7. MCDM Productions' Strongholds & Followers
In March 2018, Matt Colville and MCDM Productions launched their Kickstarter campaign, "Strongholds & Streaming", and made history by raising $2,121,465. This was the first tabletop RPG (TTRPG) project to cross the $2 million mark. The campaign funded a 268-page D&D 5E supplement called Strongholds & Followers and established a professional livestreaming studio for their show, The Chain. This achievement set a high bar for future TTRPG crowdfunding efforts.
The campaign's success was fueled by Colville's YouTube audience of 150,000 subscribers and a pre-launch email list of 8,000 people. The result? They smashed their $50,000 funding goal in just 32 minutes and unlocked all stretch goals within two hours. As Colville explained:
"The success of the Kickstarter is the success of the YouTube channel. There's no way to understand it otherwise".
Strongholds & Followers gave D&D 5E players new rules for high-level gameplay, allowing characters to construct strongholds, command armies, and research spells. These mechanics offered players exciting ways to spend their gold and influence the game world, turning adventurers into key political players within their campaigns.
MCDM's transparency about how the funds would be used - split between the book and the livestreaming studio - resonated with backers. By bypassing traditional distribution channels, MCDM solidified its place as a major force in TTRPG crowdfunding. By early 2026, they had raised a total of $12,796,129 across five million-dollar campaigns.
8. Pinnacle Entertainment Group's Savage Worlds
Pinnacle Entertainment Group's Savage Worlds has carved out a strong place in the world of crowdfunded RPGs by focusing on two key elements: speed and flexibility. With its "Fast, Furious, Fun!" mantra, the game emphasizes quick gameplay and minimal preparation for Game Masters (GMs), making it a standout choice for players who want to dive right in without getting bogged down by overly complex mechanics. This philosophy struck a chord with backers during the 2018 Kickstarter campaign for the Savage Worlds Adventure Edition (SWADE), which funded a major revamp of the system.
What makes Savage Worlds truly shine is its universal system design. Instead of being locked into a single genre or setting, the game supports a wide range of genres - everything from pulp adventures to horror, fantasy, and science fiction. Over the years, the system has been used to adapt well-known intellectual properties, including Rifts, Pathfinder, and The Savage World of Solomon Kane, showcasing its ability to handle diverse storytelling styles.
The game also features some clever mechanics that set it apart. For instance, it uses a card-based initiative system with a standard deck of cards, "Bennies" (tokens that let players reroll dice), and exploding dice, which allow for rerolls when the highest number on a die is rolled. RPG historian Stu Horvath highlighted how the GM section of the rulebook is just a few pages long, encouraging minimal prep time. This streamlined approach not only enhances the experience for players but has also earned recognition from the gaming industry.
Savage Worlds has picked up several awards over the years, including the 2003 Origin Gamers' Choice Award for Best Role-Playing Game. Its Deadlands Reloaded supplement also won the Origins Award for Best Roleplaying Game Supplement in 2007. The system's ability to handle large-scale battles efficiently while being easy to adapt across settings has made it a go-to choice for tabletop gamers who want fast-paced action without losing depth. This balance of speed and versatility continues to draw a wide range of backers in the crowdfunding space.
9. Goodman Games' Dungeon Crawl Classics
Goodman Games' Dungeon Crawl Classics (DCC) stands out for blending nostalgic design with inventive mechanics, a combination that struck a chord with fans during its crowdfunding campaign. In November 2015, the company launched a Kickstarter to fund the fourth printing of its massive 480-page hardcover core rulebook. With a modest goal of $15,000, the campaign far exceeded expectations, pulling in $112,950 from 1,288 backers. The $40 pledge level was especially popular, thanks to enticing stretch goals like gilded page edges, satin bookmarks, and a full-color dust jacket. This campaign's success wasn’t just about the extras - it was the game’s unique approach and dedication to old-school dungeon-crawling that truly resonated with fans.
Dungeon Crawl Classics embraces a design philosophy that rejects modern notions of "game balance", instead channeling the chaotic and unpredictable spirit of 1970s sword and sorcery fiction. Joseph Goodman, the founder of Goodman Games, summed it up perfectly:
"Remember the good old days, when adventures were underground, NPCs were there to be killed, and the finale of every dungeon was the dragon on the 20th level? Those days are back".
This philosophy, heavily inspired by the Appendix N reading list in the original Dungeon Masters Guide, emphasizes randomness, danger, and thrill over ensuring characters have a long, safe journey.
Mechanically, DCC sets itself apart with its use of "Zocchi dice" - a collection of unusual dice (like d3, d5, d7, d14, d16, d24, and d30) - which give the game a distinctive physical flair. Another standout feature is the "character funnel", where players start with several level-0 characters (like chicken butchers or potato farmers) embarking on a high-risk adventure. Only the survivors make it to become proper adventurers. RPG historian Stu Horvath described the game’s chaotic charm with a vivid metaphor:
"DCC is about grabbing that old stick of dynamite, shaking it vigorously, and laughing maniacally while waiting to see if it explodes".
The game's retro spirit is further amplified by its visual design. Featuring artwork from TSR legends like Jeff Dee, Erol Otus, Jim Roslof, and Jim Holloway, the visuals evoke the golden age of tabletop gaming. By 2021, the core rulebook had reached its ninth printing, and the series had grown to include more than 100 adventure modules. This success also fueled a thriving third-party ecosystem, with compatible content regularly appearing on platforms like BackerKit. January 2023 even marked Goodman Games' best sales month in 20 years, driven in part by renewed attention during the OGL controversy.
Dungeon Crawl Classics has not only rekindled the spirit of classic dungeon adventures but also built a vibrant community around its chaotic, high-stakes gameplay.
10. Ghostfire Gaming's Grim Hollow
Ghostfire Gaming's Grim Hollow offers a grimdark setting packed with mechanics that resonate with fans of dark fantasy. One standout feature is its Advanced Backgrounds system, which goes far beyond the usual backstory options. Instead of simply picking a past for their characters, players choose specific professions - like Inquisitor, Pit Fighter, Beast Hunter, or Graveyard Scavenger - that shape how their characters interact with the world and evolve throughout the campaign. This approach adds depth and individuality to character creation, setting the tone for a more immersive experience.
A key element of this system is the introduction of Profession Dice, which range from 1d4 at Rank 1 to 1d10 at Rank 4. These dice are added to skill or ability checks tied to a character's professional expertise, making career choices feel impactful. Progressing through ranks isn’t just about gaining experience - it requires hitting narrative milestones, such as making a groundbreaking medical discovery as a Physician or earning a royal appointment. Higher ranks also unlock Holdings, which are significant assets woven directly into the story, further enriching the gameplay.
The grimdark theme is deeply embedded in Grim Hollow. Professions like Cutthroat, Plague Doctor, and Inquisitor reflect a world filled with peril and moral complexity. Even the mechanics reinforce this tone - rolling a natural 20 on a skill check doesn’t guarantee automatic success, keeping the stakes high and ensuring a challenging experience. Difficulty levels range from Easy (DC 10) to Impossible (DC 30), maintaining the tension throughout.
The Advanced Backgrounds system categorizes character origins into 10 groups: Academic, Aristocrats, Clan Member, Clergy, Common Folk, Criminal, Militarist, Outlander, Pauper, and Seafarer. Each group offers unique professions with specialized Talents - abilities like "Menacing Presence", "Shrewd Deduction", or "Urban Sprinter" - that allow players to use their Profession Dice in creative and impactful ways. This depth of customization ensures that characters not only stand out mechanically but also feel deeply connected to the story.
Research into successful crowdfunding campaigns highlights six key factors: campaign rewards, clear goals, product quality, team reputation, community engagement, and preparation. Grim Hollow excelled by combining a strong vision with mechanics that appealed to a niche audience, cementing its place as a favorite among fans of narrative-driven, dark RPGs.
Comparison Table
Tabletop RPG campaigns have been breaking crowdfunding records in impressive ways. For instance, Avatar Legends and the Cosmere Roleplaying Game have demonstrated that success can come in different forms - whether it's through groundbreaking backer support or securing the highest funding totals.
Here’s a breakdown of key metrics and highlights from some of the most notable campaigns:
| RPG | Total Kickstarter Funding (USD) | Number of Backers | Key Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cosmere Roleplaying Game | $15,100,000 | 55,106 | Most-funded tabletop RPG |
| Avatar Legends: The Roleplaying Game | $9,535,317 | 81,587 | Record-setting backer support |
| MCDM RPG | $4,600,000 | Data not available | High-production independent system |
| Numenera | Data not available | Data not available | Data not available |
| The One Ring | Data not available | Data not available | Data not available |
| Strongholds & Followers | Data not available | Data not available | Data not available |
| Savage Worlds | Data not available | Data not available | Data not available |
| Dungeon Crawl Classics | Data not available | Data not available | Data not available |
| Humblewood | Data not available | Data not available | Data not available |
| Grim Hollow | Data not available | Data not available | Data not available |
These campaigns highlight the importance of combining fresh ideas with a dedicated community. Whether it’s achieving massive funding or attracting tens of thousands of backers, the ability to connect with supporters is what drives these projects to success.
Conclusion
Crowdfunding has completely changed the way tabletop RPGs reach their audience. By sidestepping traditional distribution methods, creators can now bring bold, imaginative projects to life - projects that might never have seen the light of day through conventional publishers. Adam Poots, the mind behind Kingdom Death: Monster, summed it up perfectly:
"A game this size could not feasibly be made without the community of supportive backers we found on Kickstarter. It's too expensive to produce and too vivid for distribution."
The impact is clear in both the sheer number of backers and the fresh, inventive designs we now see. Record-breaking campaigns like Cosmere Roleplaying Game and Avatar Legends highlight this shift, but even smaller projects are thriving. In 2024, for instance, the average successful tabletop campaign - excluding the top 10 - still managed to raise $33,729.
But crowdfunding isn’t just about the numbers. It’s also opened the door for greater representation and creative diversity in gaming. Take Aurion: Legacy of the Kori-Odan, for example. This project introduced an African fantasy setting to the Action RPG genre and successfully raised €49,774 in October 2015. Events like Zine Quest, held every February, further showcase the creativity of independent designers by shining a spotlight on smaller, innovative projects.
These examples highlight how crowdfunding has ushered in a new era for tabletop RPGs. It’s not just about funding - it’s about enriching the gaming world with fresh ideas and diverse perspectives. If you’re looking for your next favorite RPG, the TTRPG Games Directory at https://ttrpg-games.com is a great place to explore both classic and indie titles, complete with detailed descriptions of mechanics, themes, and unique features.
By supporting future crowdfunding campaigns, you’re doing more than just helping creators - you’re actively shaping the games you want to play. As Anya Combs, Kickstarter’s Director of Games, puts it:
"I think indie RPGs kind of give you that opportunity to exist in a world that you kind of get to curate in the way that you want to with people in a space that is safe."
Your backing doesn’t just fund games - it builds communities and brings bold, diverse visions to life.
FAQs
Why do some RPGs raise more money while others get more backers?
Some RPG campaigns bring in more funds thanks to factors like widespread appeal, a recognizable brand, or the participation of famous creators - elements that often inspire bigger individual pledges. On the other hand, some projects draw a larger number of backers by focusing on affordable pricing, enticing rewards, or building strong community connections. In the end, a campaign’s success hinges on its ability to target the right audience, craft effective marketing strategies, and resonate with both loyal fans and a wider community.
What should I look for before backing a crowdfunded tabletop RPG?
When you're thinking about supporting a crowdfunded tabletop RPG, there are a few important things to keep in mind. First, look at the campaign quality - does it clearly explain the mechanics, themes, and overall design? Are the visuals polished and engaging? Next, consider the social capital of the project. Early support and buzz can play a big role in driving a campaign's momentum.
The reward strategy is another crucial factor. Are the rewards enticing and well-thought-out? Do they feel worth the backing amount? Finally, check out the creator's track record. Have they successfully delivered similar projects before? A solid history can give you more confidence in their reliability.
In the end, a well-prepared campaign with strong, engaging content often stands out as a safer bet for backing.
Are these crowdfunded RPGs beginner-friendly or mostly for experienced players?
The most crowdfunded RPGs cater to a mix of audiences, with some tailored for newcomers and others aimed at seasoned players. For example, certain games provide easy-to-learn systems, making them perfect for beginners stepping into the RPG world. On the other hand, many of the highest-funded campaigns lean toward intricate mechanics and richly developed settings, drawing in experienced players who enjoy complex gameplay and immersive storytelling. While beginner-friendly options exist, the most successful projects often resonate with those looking for deeper, more elaborate experiences.
