Rourke's Diadem

Spacefarers Guide, Sector One was previously reviewed in this column in Campaign #90. Rourke's Diadem is a similar design but much improved over the first because E Lipsett has delved into his imagination for the material, rather than gleaning a set of planets from popular SF literature and inferring many of the details.

This product is a 72-page paper-bound 8 1/2" x 11" booklet which details the planets in globular cluster in the northern portion of the galaxy. The 136 stars of the Diadem are orbite by 96 inhabited planets. The area has a lengthy yet turbulent history, and star travelers should beware the precarious political situation they will encounter when journeying there amid the ruled confines of Traveller, Space Patrol, Starships and Spacemen, or whatever role-playing SF vehicle they plan on using.

Basically, two fanatical religious sects lim, stormed the cluster, seeking to annihilate a life that does not conform with their belief. Rather than continue the war that began when the two finally encountered one another, the are held in perilous balance by the Imperial House of Cavoral. All three organizations have their own secret police, enforcer squads, etc. and at any given moment, all hell can (and will) break loose. All of this is nicely detailed in Lipsett's booklet.

Other details include some flora and fauna 35 clubs, guilds, and associations; 73 trading companies; and about 200 encounters with personnae in deep space or with the two religious sects. Detailed statistics and information on 100 planets is included. As a guide, it is a success. $7.95.

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