Liminal Horror Horror; Old-School Renaissance (OSR); New School Revolution (NSR); Investigation; Psychological; Rules Lite; Low Prep; Quick-Play

At-a-glance: Modern/Cosmic Horror • d20 saves + Stress/Fallout • 2–5 + Warden/GM • Low prep • Rules‑lite • 2–3h sessions

Theme and Setting

Liminal Horror reframes OSR/NSR clarity for contemporary occult investigation—clinic basements, back-alley rituals, cursed archives. It favors grounded, human-scale horror where consequence and uncertainty do the heavy lifting.

Core Mechanics and Rules

Make a d20 save when danger has stakes; otherwise keep scenes moving. Stress accumulates under pressure and can trigger Fallout—lingering consequences that change how you act and survive. Combat is brief and dangerous; tables seed cases and complications with minimal prep.

What Makes It Unique

Information is inevitable but costly: you can press for answers, but Stress/Fallout push a price onto the fiction. The Into the Odd/Cairn roots keep math tiny and adjudication clear so attention stays on tone and choices.

Target Audience and Player Experience

Great for groups who want fast investigative horror with meaningful risk. Expect quick scenes, lethal stakes when you push, and rewards for planning and creative problem-solving.