Settingsunderground

Settingsunderground is an online platform and community dedicated to exploring and sharing unconventional, immersive, and often experimental game settings for tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs). Founded in 2017 by game designer and writer Matt Colville, the site serves as a resource for players and dungeon masters (DMs) seeking creative alternatives to traditional fantasy or sci-fi settings. Its primary focus lies on "settings" that deviate from mainstream tropes, encouraging fresh perspectives in storytelling and worldbuilding.

The platform offers a variety of original settings, each designed to challenge conventional expectations. Examples include *The Blacktongue*, a grim and morally ambiguous world where magic is tied to blood sacrifice, and *The Empire of the East*, a high-fantasy setting inspired by East Asian history and mythology. Settingsunderground also provides tools like character sheets, maps, and rulesets tailored to popular systems such as *Dungeons & Dragons* or *Pathfinder*, though it remains system-agnostic. The site emphasizes modularity, allowing users to mix and match elements from different settings to craft unique campaigns.

Beyond its written content, Settingsunderground fosters a community through forums and social media, where users discuss mechanics, share homebrew ideas, and collaborate on projects. The platform’s approach is rooted in accessibility, offering free resources while encouraging contributions from the community. Colville and other contributors regularly update the site with new content, ensuring it remains a dynamic hub for TTRPG enthusiasts.

Settingsunderground appeals to both experienced DMs looking for fresh inspiration and newcomers seeking structured yet flexible frameworks. Its emphasis on depth and creativity makes it a valuable resource for those aiming to break away from traditional gaming conventions. The site’s neutral, collaborative tone and focus on player-driven storytelling continue to attract a dedicated following within the TTRPG community.