Eastmediumearth

Eastmediumearth is a fictional world featured in the *Dungeons & Dragons* (D&D) role-playing game, specifically within the *Forgotten Realms* campaign setting. Created by the game's developers, it serves as an alternate version of the *Forgotten Realms* multiverse, offering a distinct and often darker interpretation of the same lore. The concept was introduced in the 2016 *Forgotten Realms Campaign Setting* sourcebook, which explores how the world might have evolved under different circumstances, particularly focusing on the consequences of the *Time of Troubles* and the rise of the *Shadowfell*.

Eastmediumearth diverges from the traditional *Forgotten Realms* in several key ways. One of the most notable differences is the absence of the *Plane of Shadow*, which remains trapped within the *Shadowfell* in the primary timeline. Instead, the *Shadowfell* itself has become a dominant force, warping reality and influencing events across the material plane. The world is depicted as a more chaotic and morally ambiguous place, where the balance between good and evil is far more precarious. Major powers, such as the *Zhentarim* and the *Sword Coast Republic*, have undergone significant shifts in power dynamics, often for the worse.

The setting emphasizes themes of decay, corruption, and the relentless march of entropy. Characters in Eastmediumearth frequently encounter a world where hope is scarce, and survival is a constant struggle. The tone is intentionally bleaker than the standard *Forgotten Realms*, appealing to players and dungeon masters who prefer a darker, more challenging narrative. While Eastmediumearth is not the primary version of the *Forgotten Realms*, it provides an intriguing alternative for those exploring the multiverse’s vast possibilities.

Eastmediumearth remains a niche but popular setting among *D&D* enthusiasts, particularly those interested in exploring the darker corners of the *Forgotten Realms* lore. Its unique storytelling and thematic depth make it a valuable resource for campaigns seeking a more somber and unpredictable world.