Fading Suns 2nd Edition Cover
Introduction
Fading Suns is a science fiction role playing game with a lush, gorgeous background and system that has had its share of criticisms. The first edition of the game was published by Holistic Design in 1996 as a 272 page soft-cover book. The color cover depicts a Jump Gate, an iconic symbol in the Known Universe described in the book. The second edition of the game, reviewed here, was published in 1999 as a 312 page hard cover. The cover shows a Hawkwood Fleet exiting the Jump Gate. A d20 version of the game was published in 2000. The game and its supplements can be purchased in printed and PDF formats at online retailers. Red Brick Limited holds the license and has been providing new material for the game. In March, Red Brick announced a distribution deal with Mongoose Publishing under the Flaming Cobra imprint.
Chapter One: The Universe
Fading Suns was designed with its setting firmly in mind, and that setting is one of the most fascinating created by the RPG industry. The setting is called the Known Worlds, representing the 40+ systems that are all that remain of mankind’s previous expansion through the stars. The Known Worlds are ruled by the recently crowned Emperor Alexius, and are rife with Byzantine politics and scheming by the various factions that have risen to the top of the gothic feudal civilization filled with superstition and fear. Interstellar travel is a function of the massive jump gates, created by the ancient Anunnaki, and located in the fringes of star systems. The gates are operated by keys and can lead to one or several other worlds. Much knowledge of science and technology has been lost and is beyond the understanding of most men. What remains is coveted by the Nobles, controlled by the Guilds, and proscribed by the Church. And, of course, the suns are literally fading, a phenomenon that sets the tone for the game itself.
Chapter Two: Rules
Designers Bill Bridges and Andrew Greenberg were already established with White Wolf, being heavily involved in that company’s initial World of Darkness offerings. Thus, it will be no surprise that the game bears a resemblance to the White Wolf games.
But there are also significant differences.
