
CoD · New World of Darkness · nWoD
Chronicles of Darkness
Chronicles of Darkness places modern lives on a collision course with the uncanny. The city resembles yours, but behind every door lies something strange. You can play as determined mortals or step into the night as a vampire, werewolf, or other creature of the dark. The stories blend investigation, dread, and tough decisions, with consequences that linger. If you’re after grounded urban fantasy with a horror edge, this is a solid choice.
At the table, sessions feel like a thriller you help craft. You delve into clues, confront unsettling truths, and decide what price you are willing to pay. A professional Game Master sets the tone, keeps scenes sharp, and highlights each character's choices. It works for newcomers and veterans alike. Perfect for moody one-shots, adult birthday groups that enjoy a scare, or team events focused on problem-solving and trust.
How to play Chronicles of Darkness
You create a dice pool using a character's Attribute and Skill, roll that many ten-sided dice, and count 8s, 9s, and 10s as successes. One success is sufficient, while more successes achieve the task more efficiently. Tens typically allow for an additional roll for extra hits. On your turn, you declare your action, the Game Master sets risks and modifiers, and then you roll. Opposed actions compare successes, and failure adds complications to the story instead of leading to dead ends.
What you need: a character concept with a few motivations, a readiness to make tough decisions, and some d10s, or you can use an online roller. A professional Game Master offers pre-generated characters for one-shots or assists in creating custom sheets, teaches the rules as you play, and provides maps, handouts, and atmosphere. Online play is seamless through voice chat and shared dice rollers; see online play options.
One-shots focus on a contained mystery or monster hunt, quick character setup, and a clear climax centred around a difficult choice. Campaigns delve deeper into personal horror and conspiracies, featuring evolving relationships, long-term consequences, and the opportunity to transition from mortal investigations to life among the monsters if desired. Progression is steady, and recurring NPCs and factions ensure every victory feels earned.



Common questions
Do I need to know the setting or the rules before we play?
No. In CofD, the core dice pool is easy to grasp in just a few minutes. A professional Game Master will guide you as you play and take care of the calculations. For one-shots, you can use pre-made characters. For campaigns, you can develop your characters from a concept together. All you need is a character idea and what frightens or motivates them. Your decisions at the table are more important than mastering the rules.
Are we playing as mortals or monsters, and can we mix the two?
You choose the lens. Mortals or Hunters are ideal for beginners and one-shots. Playing a vampire, werewolf, mage, or other creature is better suited for longer story arcs. Mixing types is possible, but it introduces complexity and secrecy costs. Our Game Masters can adjust power levels and threats so everyone gets a chance to shine. For a first game, using one template across the group helps maintain a consistent tone and keeps the drama focused.
Which edition do you run, and which CofD lines can we select?
Most tables use 2nd Edition rules, including modern Conditions and Beats. If you prefer 1st Edition, let us know, and a professional Game Master will accommodate that. Popular lines include Vampire: The Requiem, Werewolf: The Forsaken, Mage: The Awakening, Changeling: The Lost, Hunter: The Vigil, Geist, Promethean, Demon, Beast, Deviant, and Mummy. Choose one line for a fresh start, or discuss a crossover if your group is experienced.
How is this different from D&D?
Chronicles of Darkness is a modern horror and mystery game, rather than a heroic fantasy. Conflicts are swift and perilous, with social or investigative scenes frequently determining the outcomes. There is minimal grid-based combat or gear optimisation. Characters develop through Aspirations and difficult decisions, not merely through treasure. The rules integrate consequences into the narrative, meaning that failure introduces new challenges rather than halting progress. It encourages planning, empathy, and moral courage.
Is this the same as Vampire: The Masquerade?
It is a sibling, not the same game. Vampire: The Masquerade is part of the World of Darkness line. Chronicles of Darkness uses different lore and rules. Vampire: The Requiem is its vampire game, with less metaplot and a focus on local stories and personal horror. If your group wants Masquerade specifically, please mention it when you book so the right option is offered.
What content level should we expect? Is it suitable for teenagers?
CofD explores mature themes such as violence, manipulation, and trauma. It is not suitable for children. For teenagers, it's important to discuss goals and boundaries beforehand. Our Game Masters employ clear safety tools, establish lines and veils with you, and can focus on mystery and consequence rather than graphic content. You can select tones ranging from bleak to hopeful. Consent and comfort influence the final narrative.
Does Chronicles of Darkness play well online?
Absolutely. CofD’s dice pools and handouts work seamlessly on voice chat with a shared roller or VTT, and the pacing of horror suits online play perfectly. A professional Game Master will supply the necessary tools and guide you through the technology as required. All you need is a microphone, a stable internet connection, and a quiet environment. Check out the supported options on online play platforms.
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