TTRPG Wiki

Compare tabletop RPG systems to find your next game

White Box: FMAG

Second Printing
The original fantasy RPG distilled to its simplest form: four classes, compressed modifiers, and room to make it your own
View on DriveThruRPG →Affiliate link: we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Best For

Groups wanting the simplest possible version of original D&D: four classes, compressed modifiers, and intentional rules gaps that invite house rules and Referee creativity.

Core Mechanic

Roll d20 + modifiers against a target number derived from the defender's Armor Class (descending AC by default, ascending AC optional). Attribute modifiers are compressed to −1, 0, or +1. Each class has a single saving throw number that improves with level. Side-based initiative is rolled each round on d6.

Diced20
System FamilyOSR
PublisherSeattle Hill Games
Year2016
ComplexityHow much there is to learn
Very Low

Roll a d20 against an AC-derived target, with minimal attributes. It is a clean, light retro-clone of original D&D.

AvailabilityHow you get the rules
  • Free to tryFull core rulesLegally free as an SRD, PDF, or official web rules
  • Get it nowAvailable nowFree to download or read online
RunnabilityWhat the book gives you to run it
  • –IndexNo back-of-book index or page-keyed reference tables
  • ✓GM guidanceA chapter on how to run the game
  • –Examples of playNo worked examples of play
  • ✓Quick referenceCheat sheet or summary tables
  • –Cross-referencesRules rarely point to each other by page

2 of 5 book tools found in the core book

Highlights

Attribute modifiers compressed to −1/0/+1 keeps math fast and reduces stat dependency. Complete game in 143 pages including monsters, treasure, spells, and wilderness/dungeon procedures. A free PDF and a low-cost print edition make it one of the most accessible OSR games. Intentional rules gaps and a blank House Rules page explicitly invite customization.

Considerations

Four classes (three without the optional Thief) limits character variety. No formal skill system: the Referee adjudicates all non-combat actions. Level tables cap at 10, requiring house rules for extended campaigns.

Rules license OGL 1.0a

Similar systems

Added