Five Torches Deep
Core RulesBest For
Groups who like 5e's core d20 feel but want OSR resource scarcity, simplified classes, and deadlier dungeon crawling.
Core Mechanic
Roll d20 + modifier vs DC 11 (most checks). Four classes (Warrior, Thief, Zealot, Mage), levels 1–9. Supply (SUP) abstracts consumables, load limits gear, and equipment can break via durability rolls. Magic carries mishap risk. Compatible with both 5e and B/X adventures.
Checks roll a d20 plus a modifier against a DC of 11. It compresses modern d20 fantasy into a lean survival frame, with abstract Supply for consumables. Four classes keep choices simple.
- Free to tryFull core rulesLegally free as an SRD, PDF, or official web rules
- Get it nowAvailable nowFree to download or read online
- –IndexNo back-of-book index or page-keyed reference tables
- ✓GM guidanceA chapter on how to run the game
- ✓Examples of playRules shown in action at the table
- ✓Quick referenceCheat sheet or summary tables
- ✓Cross-referencesRules point to each other by page
4 of 5 book tools found in the core book
Highlights
Bridges 5e familiarity with OSR lethality, supply system elegantly handles torches and rations, fits in 48 pages, dual-compatible with 5e and B/X content
Considerations
Very slim: GMs may need to house-rule gaps, limited character options compared to full 5e, magic mishap table can feel punishing, no bestiary included
Rules license OGL 1.0a
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- Swords & Wizardry — Dungeon delving, deadly wilds, and strongholds carved from the frontierCompare Five Torches Deep vs Swords & Wizardry
- Dragonslayer RPG — Classic old-school dungeon crawling from the creator of Barrowmaze: torches, rations, and descending ACCompare Five Torches Deep vs Dragonslayer RPG