Ashes Without Number vs Stars Without Number
Compare Ashes Without Number and Stars Without Number side by side. See differences in complexity, dice, genre, and more.
| Ashes Without Number | Stars Without Number | |
|---|---|---|
| Genre | Post-Apocalyptic | Sci-Fi |
| Tags | Sandbox, Deadly, Gritty, Exploration, Survival, Faction Play, Ascending AC | Sandbox, Exploration, Low-Prep, Faction Play, Tactical, Ascending AC, Vancian Casting |
| Core Mechanic | 2d6 + skill + attribute modifier ≥ target for skill checks; d20 + modifiers for combat. Edges and Foci customize survivors. Enclave turn manages settlement-level play. Mutation system for mutant wasteland campaigns. | 2d6 + skill + attribute ≥ target for skills; d20 + modifiers for combat. OSR-inspired. |
| Dice | 2d6 / d20 | 2d6 / d20 |
| Complexity | Medium | Medium |
| Availability | Free core rules | Free core rules |
| Runnability | 5 of 5 book tools | 5 of 5 book tools |
| License | Proprietary | Proprietary |
| Third-Party Publishing | Not yet researched | Not yet researched |
| Publisher | Sine Nomine Publishing | Sine Nomine Publishing |
| Year | 2025 | 2017 |
| Languages | English | English |
| Best For | Sandbox post-apocalyptic campaigns (nuclear wastelands, zombie deadlands, or societal collapse) with the same incredible GM tools as Stars Without Number. | Sandbox sci-fi campaigns with comprehensive GM tools for faction turns, sector generation, and adventure creation. |
| Highlights | Three apocalypse flavors (mutant wasteland, zombie deadlands, after the fall), comprehensive sandbox GM tools with encounter site and enclave generators, mutations and cybernetics, compatible with other Without Number games | Free version is generous, comprehensive sandbox tools, faction system |
| Considerations | OSR combat can feel flat, dense 294-page rulebook, requires GM comfort with sandbox play | OSR combat can feel flat compared to modern tactical systems, B/X heritage means limited mechanical support for social or narrative play |