All three of these Gary Gygax-designed scenarios come in three-sided folders of heavy, glossy, cardboard (similar to SPI folios), each panel 8.5x11 inches. Each contains a large area, hexagonal map of known subterranean geography for the players, as well as terrain yet to be discovered by the expeditioneers. Additionally, there is a module map, used for when the expedition progresses far enough down the tunnels and corridors to reach their prime objective within the module. This module map takes up two of the folder panels.

Each module also contains some tear-out maps for player use, showing what they should already be familiar with. There are bordering areas which they may venture into, but the individual DM must program these himself, since they do not pertain to the actual campaign at hand.

Other similarities between the three scenarios are that new monsters are created for each one (see below for individual analysis), random monster tables are provided (these are duplicated in each scenario almost verbatim), and all characters must proceed on foot. Characters should be of at least ninth level to insure a reasonable chance of survival, and mages will find that some of their spells have only limited effect.

In general, if you are contemplating buying one of these, you may as well purchase all three, since they are meant to go together, and running them consecutively makes a great deal more sense than running just a single encounter. All are available from TSR, POB 756, Lake Geneva, WI 53147, or from Lowry Enterprises. The first two modules sell for $4.98, the third for $5.98. As with the earlier modules, these are excellent and guarantee a fine experience for all. The description, the production, and the excitement level are unparalled in the hobby. Note: These three scenarios constitute a continuance ofthe three "giant" modules (Gl-G3) previously reviewed in this column. It is, however, unnecessary to be familiar with these prior to playing.

D1: Descent into the Depths of the Earth

Descent has a 16-page booklet filled with information for this scenario as well as background information to connect it to modules G1-G3. It contains the detailed programs (in addition to those mentioned above) for two encounter areas as well as the primary encounter area, the Caverns and Warrens of the Troglodytes. Finally, a new monster, the Jermlaine (also known as branemidges or jinxkins) appears.

The Jermlaine, a roughly humanoid, bipedal creature about twelve inches tall, enjoys cavorting with rats and other vile creatures. Being basically cowardly, it attacks only when reasonably assured of success, and does so in devastatingly silent swarms-the defender has an 86% chance of being surprised. The jinxkins are armed with special darts and leather saps, and love to pummel away at the heads of downed victims, or vandalize their belongings while they slumber away the afternoon. Real nice guys!

One negative comment on this one: the maps in my folio were printed in a very faint hue of blue, making it extremely difficult to read the programming numbers unless I had a carefully positioned flourescent light. Perhaps this was a defective copy, and the rest are better(?)

D2: Shrine of the Kuo-Toa

In a 20-page booklet, Shrine offers most of the above-mentioned material. There are also a pair of programmed encounter areas together with the Shrine itself. Further information delineates specifications on wandering types , primarily Kuo-Toan clerics, pilgrims, war parties, and some deep gnomes. The Kuo-Toans and deep gnomes make up the monster additions in this module.

The Kuo-Toa are men-fish, having heavy, human, scaly bodies and the heads of fish. Their generally slimy mien will turn even the strongest stomach. These quite powerful creatures are semi-magic resistant, and upper level types can employ a sort of "mass mind" as in Metamorphosis Alpha to produce lightning bolts to help eliminate their most hated foe, mankind. Special shield and skin properties help thwart various attacks, and on offense, Kuo-Toans use a unique pincer staff which pins an opponent by locking his arms to his sides.

The Svirfneblin, or deep gnome, is the other exotic introduced in this scenario. These monsters communicate through telepathy, are armed with plus-one non-magical weapons, and possess an effective dart weaponry that may remind the reader of a Doc Savage book. High level svirfneblii can additionally have limited magical abilities, being able to cast illusions or summon an earth elemental.

D3: Vault of the Drow

The layout of the third module is virtually identical to the others save that this one is 32 pages and the playing area is a hexagonal map rather than the graphed areas that appear in the former two. There are the usual three programmed encounter areas as well as a five level dungeon-The Great Fane of Lolthbeneath the dreaded vault of the drow. This module is significantly more devastating than the previous two, and spices the action by adding two new character types in addition to a very malevolent lady, Lolth, the demon queen of spiders.

The first of the new character/monster types is the mezzodaemon, a being from another plane of existence that moves freely between planes if the price is right, or the thought of wreaking havoc pleasing enough. Having 18/00 strength and natural magical abilities, these evil creatures are thankfully rare, but still not as rare as the second monster creation, the nycadaemon. The nycadaemon, cousin to the mezzodaemon, looms despicably malevolent and absolutely egocentric. Possessing increased magical ability and regenerating hit points during combat, the nycadaemon will prove to be one of the unvannuished foes.

More RPG Mini-Reviews

Advanced Dungeons and Dragons: Modules D1-D3
Basic Dungeons and Dragons: Module B-1
Destrier (C&S)
Dungeon Tac Cards
Spacefarer's Guide to Planets: Sector Two
Judges Shield
Citadel of Fire
Other New Items