Pathfinder Core rulebook

Gr 10 Up--Originally created in 2009 as a direct response to changes made to the third edition of Dungeons & Dragons, Pathfinder has since flourished and expanded to offer a more rules-heavy TTRPG experience, but one that allows greater freedom to players. The Core Rulebook provides a formidable starting point for those dipping a toe into the game's vast universe. At over 600 pages, this substantial tome contains all the essential rules for players and Game Masters, combining both sets rather than splitting them into separate volumes. Game Masters will appreciate the sage advice on preparing and running campaigns, while players will have everything they need to create characters and develop skills in one volume. This covers character creation, combat, magic, monsters, and world exploration. There are six core races--Elf, Dwarf, Human, Goblin, Halfling, and Gnome--and 12 classes, including Wizard, Cleric, Fighter, and Sorcerer. Gorgeous, full-color art throughout transports readers to a fantasy universe of dreams.There are dozens of official adventure modules and expanded resource books like the Bestiary, which contains new and exciting monsters to encounter; Mythic Adventures, which allows players to create magical characters with powerful spells and artifacts; and Horror Adventures, which brings things that go bump in the night to gaming tables. Pathfinder still exists under an Open Gaming License (OGL) that allows third-party publishers to create adventures, fostering an open community of content creators and opening the door for thousands of modules and game play enhancements. VERDICT For those seeking an epic, long-running game in the vein of Dungeons & Dragons, this highly customizable TTRPG experience prioritizes player freedom over Game Master rulings while delivering a rich fantasy adventure.