A Torch in the Dark
A Torch in the Dark is a rules-lite solo dungeon delver using Forged in the Dark mechanics. Classless and low-prep, it emphasizes light management, inventory pressure, and procedural dungeon exploration beneath a demon-cursed city. Ideal for solo players seeking tense, roguelike survival with emergent storytelling.
Forged in the Dark • d6 dice pools • 1 player • Low prep • Rules-lite • 45–120 min sessions
The People's Revolution has overthrown the nobles and seized the capital of Kynburgh. The Emperor died cursing the land.
Theme and Setting
Now the only coin left lies buried with the undead Lords who forged the Empire. You are a delver, venturing into haunted depths beneath the demon-cursed city to reclaim wealth and secure the Revolution's future.
How Play Feels
The tone blends grimdark survival with revolutionary fervor—each expedition is a gamble against darkness, demons, and the ever-dwindling light. Built on a streamlined Forged in the Dark chassis, A Torch in the Dark uses small pools of d6s for action rolls.
What Makes It Distinct
Characters have action dots distributed across skills, with position and effect setting the stakes. The signature mechanics involve inventory management—every item slot matters, and light sources are precious resources that deplete with each room explored.
Where It May Not Fit
You want a very light rules load You want combat and action to drive most of the session.
What this game is about
A strong fit for groups that want tension, danger, and unease to stay active at the table, with rules Lite helping define the experience.
Structured data and an explicit decision profile JSON document are available for remote agents.