# Mutant: Year Zero

Mutant: Year Zero is a post-apocalyptic survival RPG using the Year Zero Engine. Players control mutated humans scavenging the deadly Zone while managing their home settlement, the Ark. Classless and resource-focused, it emphasizes exploration, mutation powers, and base development over combat optimization.

## At a Glance

Year Zero Engine • d6 dice pool • 2-5 + GM • Low prep • Survival-focused • 2-4h sessions

## Why It Fits

A strong fit for groups that want life after collapse to drive the tone and choices, with exploration-Driven helping define the experience.

## Fit Facts

- Players: 2-5 players + GM
- Session length: 120-240 minutes
- Prep: Low

## Facets

- Genres: Post-Apocalyptic
- Systems: Year Zero Engine
- Mechanics: Exploration-Driven, Resource Management, Survival

## Scores

- Complexity: 4/5
- New GM Fit: 3/5
- Roleplay Focus: 3/5
- Combat Focus: 2/5
- Tactical Depth: 3/5
- Campaign Depth: 5/5

## Best For

- Groups that want life after collapse to drive the tone and choices
- Groups that want place, travel, and discovery to stay central
- Groups that want streamlined procedures with strong survival or exploration texture

## Avoid If

- You want a very light rules load
- You mainly want short standalone sessions with minimal carryover
- You want a cleaner, less pressured world state

## Directory Notes

Humanity's civilization has fallen, leaving cities as dead wastelands overrun by nature. You are The People—mutated humans living in the Ark, a small settlement on the edge of a ruined town.

## Theme and Setting

No one lives past 30 except the Elder, an Ancient who warns of the Rot and other horrors in the Zone outside. As resources dwindle, you must venture into the wasteland to scavenge artifacts, find food, and uncover the truth about your origins.

## How Play Feels

The setting blends post-apocalyptic survival with body horror and mystery. The Year Zero Engine uses d6 dice pools: roll attribute + skill, count 6s as successes.

## What Makes It Distinct

The signature push mechanic lets you reroll failures by taking Stress or pushing your mutation—adding tension to every roll. You want a very light rules load You mainly want short standalone sessions with minimal carryover.

## Where It May Not Fit

You want a very light rules load You mainly want short standalone sessions with minimal carryover.

## Links

- Directory page: https://www.ttrpg-games.com/item/mutantyearzero
- Agent JSON: https://www.ttrpg-games.com/api/games/mutantyearzero.json
- Publisher or official site: https://freeleaguepublishing.com/games/mutant-year-zero/
- Reviews or retailer page: https://www.drivethrurpg.com/en/product/139453/mutant-year-zero-roleplaying-at-the-end-of-days?affiliate_id=1659151