Delving into the Divine: A Review of ‘Cults of RuneQuest: The Prosopaedia’

By Dan Zappone July 14, 2023 5 Min Read
Cults of RuneQuest Prosopaedia CoverCults of RuneQuest Prosopaedia Cover

For those well-versed in the universe of tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs), the name ‘RuneQuest’ resonates with the promise of epic adventures in a meticulously detailed fantasy world. Enter ‘Cults of RuneQuest: The Prosopaedia,’ the inaugural volume in a new sourcebook series dedicated to this beloved RPG. This book is an indispensable reference to the rich pantheon of gods and goddesses, heroes, and events that have defined the game’s mythology since its inception.

A Grand Repository of Gloranthan Deities

Featuring hundreds of entries, the ‘Cults of RuneQuest: The Prosopaedia’ unfolds as a comprehensive encyclopedia of the gods. The informative, succinct prose brings to life the deities that inhabit the realm of Glorantha, describing each entity’s name, pronunciation, other titles, associations, and depictions within the world. With helpful cross-referencing, readers can quickly navigate this labyrinth of lore, further enriching their understanding of the intricate connections among these divine beings.

A Versatile Companion to the RuneQuest Series

As the first entry in the ‘Cults of RuneQuest’ series, ‘The Prosopaedia’ is intended to complement the forthcoming volumes. The carefully structured content ensures seamless integration and quick referencing across all books, making it an essential acquisition for any RuneQuest collector.

The Art of Glorantha Brought to Life

‘The Prosopaedia’ is a textual treasure and a visual feast. Full-color illustrations by Katrin Dirim breathe life into the divine world, capturing the myriad facets of Gloranthan culture and the distinct artistic styles of its many worshippers. These breathtaking visuals inspire players and game masters alike, enhancing their immersion in this fantastical universe.

A Rules-Agnostic Guide to Mythology

One of the most compelling features of ‘Cults of RuneQuest: The Prosopaedia’ is its rule-agnostic descriptions. Whether you’re a seasoned RuneQuest player, a novice venturing into Glorantha, a player of other RPGs, or someone fascinated by creative mythology, this book is invaluable. It presents the gods and heroes of RuneQuest without focusing on mechanics or rules, making it accessible and engaging for a diverse readership.

Personal Experience

I was fortunate to acquire a copy of ‘The Prosopaedia’ at the recent Chaosium Con. It’s an absolute delight and my favorite RuneQuest Glorantha book to date. The wealth of information and myriad stories invite you on an immersive journey of exploration; you’ll find yourself flipping back and forth, driven by curiosity, as you unearth the rich tapestry of Gloranthan mythology. The breathtaking illustrations unify the diverse elements of the book, reinforcing the captivating narrative in a powerfully visual way.

In summary, ‘Cults of RuneQuest: The Prosopaedia’ is more than a game sourcebook – a profound exploration of a captivating mythological universe. Whether you’re an RPG enthusiast, a mythology aficionado, or simply someone who appreciates a well-crafted mythology, this volume will ignite your imagination. Dive in and let yourself be carried away by the currents of Gloranthan lore!

Key Details at a Glance:

  • Product Code: CHA4042-H
  • Length: 152 pages
  • Hardcover, full color
  • ISBN: 978-1-56882-466-6

The creative team that brought this book to life is a who’s who of role-playing game design:

  • Authors: Greg Stafford, Jeff Richard, Sandy Petersen
  • Cover Art: Katrin Dirim
  • Interior Art: Katrin Dirim

hardback copy of this meticulously crafted volume is priced at $37.99. A leatherette edition is available for $90.00 for those seeking a more luxurious feel. If you prefer digital versions, you can opt for the PDF or the DriveThruRPG version, each priced at $18.99.

It’s worth noting that when purchased directly from Chaosium.com or your Friendly Local Game Stores participating in the Bits & Mortar initiative, the physical versions (hardback and leatherette) come bundled with the PDF version at no extra cost.

Invest in Adventure

Cults of RuneQuest: The Prosopaedia offers a vivid journey through the mystical realm of Glorantha, sure to captivate players and mythology enthusiasts alike. Whether you prefer the tactile satisfaction of a hardback or leatherette edition or the convenience of a digital version, this sourcebook is a sound investment. Embrace the opportunity to delve deeper into the rich tapestry of Gloranthan lore – do yourself a favor and buy a copy today.