Arkanauts

Arkanauts is a tabletop role-playing game (TTRPG) designed by Mike Selinker and published by his company, Mike Selinker Games. Released in 2015, it blends elements of classic fantasy role-playing with a unique, humorous, and often absurd tone. The game is set in a world where magic is real but unpredictable, often leading to chaotic and unintended consequences.

The core premise of Arkanauts revolves around a group of adventurers known as "Arkanauts," who explore a world filled with magical artifacts, bizarre creatures, and powerful spells. Unlike traditional fantasy settings, Arkanauts emphasizes the whimsical and sometimes nonsensical nature of magic. Players take on the roles of characters with distinct personalities, skills, and magical abilities, often leading to comedic or surreal situations.

The game uses a simplified ruleset, making it accessible to new players while still offering depth for experienced gamers. Character creation is streamlined, with players selecting from a variety of archetypes such as the "Mage," "Rogue," "Paladin," and "Cleric," each with unique strengths and weaknesses. Combat and spellcasting are resolved using a dice-pool system, where players roll multiple dice and compare the results to a target number.

Arkanauts is known for its lighthearted approach to storytelling, encouraging players to embrace creativity and humor. The game includes a variety of pre-generated characters, adventure seeds, and optional rules to enhance gameplay. It has gained a following among fans of quirky, low-stakes fantasy adventures, often praised for its ease of use and playful tone.

The game has seen expansions and supplements, such as *Arkanauts: The Lost City of the Sun*, which introduces new mechanics and settings. While not as widely known as some other TTRPGs, Arkanauts has cultivated a dedicated fanbase for its unique blend of fantasy and comedy. It remains a popular choice for casual gamers and those seeking a lighter, more imaginative role-playing experience.