Root: The RPG

At-a-glance: PBtA lineage • 2d6 mechanics • Faction-based • Anthropomorphic woodland • 3-5 players + GM • Campaign play • 2-4h sessions

What is Root: The RPG?

Root: The RPG is a Powered by the Apocalypse game published by Magpie Games in 2020, based on Leder Games' wildly popular board game of woodland warfare. It transforms the board game's factional conflict into a narrative RPG where players become vagabonds—travelers and adventurers caught between the Woodland's warring powers.

The game preserves the board game's distinctive aesthetic: cute woodland creatures engaged in serious political conflict. But where the board game focuses on territory control, the RPG explores what life is like for the ordinary (and extraordinary) individuals living in this contested world.

The Woodland: A World at War

The setting is a forest realm where multiple factions vie for dominance:

The Marquise de Cat—An industrializing feline empire clear-cutting the forest for resources. Organized and powerful, but stretched thin.

The Eyrie Dynasties—Birds restoring their ancient monarchy. Noble but fractious, torn between competing claims to the roost.

The Woodland Alliance—A growing resistance of mice, rabbits, and foxes fighting occupation. Small but passionate.

The Vagabonds—Independent adventurers who travel between factions, taking jobs and building reputations. This is who you play.

The RPG adds depth to these factions through detailed NPCs, agendas, and the ever-shifting balance of power. Your actions as vagabonds can tip the scales.

Playbooks: Who You Are

Character creation uses PBtA playbooks, each representing a distinct vagabond archetype:

• The Arbiter—A wandering judge and mediator
• The Ranger—Wilderness guide and tracker
• The Scoundrel—Thief, spy, and opportunist
• The Thief—Master of stealth and acquisition
• The Tinker—Inventor and craftsperson
• The Vagrant—Wanderer with hidden depths
• The Harrier—Messenger and scout (in Travelers & Outsiders)
• The Champion—Warrior for hire (in Travelers & Outsiders)

Each playbook provides unique moves, starting gear, and connections to the Woodland. A Ranger knows hidden paths; a Tinker can craft useful devices; a Scoundrel has underworld contacts.

Faction Mechanics: Reputation and Politics

Root's standout feature is its detailed faction system. Every vagabond has reputation with each major faction:

• Reputation tracks measure how each faction views you (from hated to beloved)
• Faction moves trigger based on your standing
• Duty and obligation create hard choices—helping one faction angers another
• The clearing map shows faction control and changes based on play

This creates emergent political drama. That job for the Marquise might pay well, but will the Alliance ever trust you again? Can you play both sides, or will you be forced to choose?

The PBtA Engine: Moves and Mechanics

Root uses the familiar 2d6+stat resolution:

• 10+—Success with full effect
• 7-9—Success with complication or cost
• 6-—Miss, and the GM makes a move

Key moves include:

• Engage in Combat—Fight with weapons or wits
• Attempt a Roguish Feat—Acrobatics, stealth, trickery
• Figure Someone Out—Read intentions and spot lies
• Convince—Persuade through charm or pressure
• Trick—Deceive and manipulate

The game emphasizes that violence has consequences. Combat is dangerous, and killing creates ripples through the community.

Why Play Root: The RPG?

For Board Game Fans: If you love the Root board game, the RPG lets you explore the Woodland in new ways. The same charming art style, deeper stories.

For PBtA Players: Root refines the Apocalypse World engine with excellent faction mechanics and a unique setting. The reputation system creates meaningful political drama.

For Anthro RPG Fans: Unlike many anthropomorphic games, Root treats its animal characters seriously. The species aren't just cosmetic—they shape how characters interact with the world.

For Political Intrigue: If you enjoy games where allegiances matter and choices have consequences, Root's faction system delivers.

FAQ

Do I need the board game?

No—the RPG is completely standalone. Board game familiarity helps with setting recognition, but the RPG includes everything needed to play.

Can I play non-vagabond characters?

The core game focuses on vagabonds. The Travelers & Outsiders supplement adds more options, but playing faction leaders would require significant hacking.

How long is a campaign?

Root works for one-shots but shines in longer campaigns where faction relationships develop. Expect 6-12 sessions for a full story arc.

Is this a kids' game?

The cute art might suggest so, but Root deals with war, occupation, and political violence. It's suitable for teens and up, depending on how dark your group takes the themes.

What's in the core book?

Complete rules, 6 playbooks, full Woodland setting, faction details, GM guidance, and a starter adventure. The PDF is $25, hardcover $50.

The Bottom Line

Root: The RPG successfully translates a board game's appeal into narrative RPG form. The faction mechanics create genuine political drama, the playbooks offer distinct character types, and the Woodland setting is utterly charming. Whether you're a Root board game fan or just want a unique anthropomorphic RPG, this delivers.