|
After the Fall: Project Update
Greetings from the Underworld
Our team has been deep in the shadows refining layouts, testing encounters, and reviewing new sculpts for Rise of the Drow: After the Fall. Progress is strong, and we’re excited to start revealing what’s been taking shape behind the scenes.
Playtesting Opens Soon
We’re seeking experienced 5E 2014 DMs to playtest After the Fall content. Run weekly or biweekly sessions for 4–6 players and submit feedback to help shape the final adventure.
Sign up for the playtest here.
The Chelicerae
In After the Fall, the drow resistance fighting the Coalition’s occupation of Hopeholme (formerly Holoth) is known as the Chelicerae, named after the pincer-like mouthparts of spiders. Pronounced kuh-LISS-uh-ree. This faction represents the fractured spirit of a people torn between survival and defiance, and their actions will shape the fate of the Underworld.
Authors’ Corner
Playtesting has been a major focus as we move deeper into development. We’ve been fine-tuning encounters, balancing combat and exploration, and shaping how new creatures evolve within the story. Our in-house playtesters have offered valuable feedback, and we’re preparing to open testing to backers and convention DMs.
Jonathan has been leading playtests within the Tolgorith Dungeon, focusing on revising and playtesting levels two and three to bring these areas to life. His approach emphasizes multiple paths forward, rewarding clever play and strategic thinking. Every encounter is designed to feel dynamic, with creatures that have their own motives, cultures, and personalities, creating an experience that feels alive and immersive.
Thilo Graf is the AtF project lead, ensuring every part of After the Fall connects seamlessly. He oversees pacing, structure, and overall story flow while refining the infiltration and security systems that define the Coalition’s control. Stephen Yeardley is developing the Ruins and Dungeon level one of Tolgorith Tower, weaving in mystery, foreshadowing, and layered storytelling that reward exploration and curiosity. Garrett White continues to refine the stealth and legwork mechanics driving the infiltration missions, and Tony Ohrazda expands the narrative of rebellion and betrayal through the eyes of the Chelicerae resistance.
We’re thrilled to welcome David N. Ross to this project. He is enhancing the Player’s Guide to After the Fall, making each drow house feel distinct, immersive, and full of character, ensuring players experience a rich and meaningful connection to their chosen house.
Art Department
Kim Van Deun continues shaping the visual tone with her dark, organic cover art and illustrations for After the Fall, blending nature, decay, and determination into every brushstroke. Her work captures the haunted elegance of the drow and the quiet strength that defines their survival.
Miniatures Update
The miniature lineup has been refined with detailed sculpts including the Penance Skulker, Silken Wretch, and Oathbreaker, replacing older designs for a more cohesive and immersive set. Once finalized, we’ll share a full reveal of the complete lineup being sculpted by Hack+Slash Minis. |
