This book describes seven strong places that are
generic enough to fit most D&D campaign worlds. Each place is described in
a lively, dynamic way. Enough information is provided with each place to let
DMs run some adventures set there as well as use them as a remarkable landmark
in his or her campaign. Each of the seven places also includes an alternate
version suggesting some modifications that turn the stronghold into a very
different place. This book is meant for DMs and this review reveals secrets
of the strongholds that players would be better off not knowing in advance.
Here is a description of each stronghold.
The Barrows is constructed over an entrance to the underworld. Its inhabitant
make sure the way stays impassable for the denizens of the underworld while
allowing adventurers to pass through the gates to explore the dungeons. The
Barrows is peopled by gnomes who recently lost their leader, a powerful warrior.
There is some political conflict concerning his succession.
Inhabited by elves, Castle Briar is made of living briar vines. The castle
has a consciousness of sorts and reacts to individuals it dislikes in unpleasant
ways. The castle can obey orders and perform some defensive actions against
invaders, such as launching volleys of poisonous needles. Some magical fruits
can be found growing in the castle which grant special abilities when eaten,
including golden apples make those who eat them younger.
Gloom Keep is the out of the way residence of a dying god, guarded by his
zealous devotees. The inhabitants resent any intrusion to their privacy and
react very badly to visitors.
Old Mount Fort is built atop an earthen mound and inhabited by halfling brigands.
Situated near ancient ruins, the place provides supplies and comfort to weary
adventurers returning with treasure from their expedition. The halfling then
kill the adventures and add the loot to the riches they have amassed that
way.
Steelface Point is a frontier dwarven fortress. Its walls are made of steel
plates and its parapets bear canon-like artifacts that throw fireballs and
lightning bolts at enemies. This fort keeps an ever-growing horde of goblinoids
from invading the lands beyond it.
The Perch is the domed dwelling place of a race of bird like humanoids. These
birdmen, or Psittae, dominate the area and extirpate a living from their neighboring
flightless humanoids. Their society is very hierarchical and organized around
strict taboos.
Uthront Fort is a settlement of raiding half-orcs led by a warrior who dreams
of founding a kingdom of half-orcs.
Each stronghold is illustrated with a map, most of which are pretty good.
As with most of the similar products in the Penumbra line, this book provides
useful building blocks and background material against which to develop adventures
and campaigns.
Weaknesses: There are a lot of errors in the d20 crunchy bits. All the character
stats that I've checked (about a third) contain errors.
