Mastering the Throne of Thorns: A Comprehensive Guide to Running Symbaroum's Epic Campaign

Introduction to the Throne of Thorns Campaign

The Throne of Thorns campaign for Symbaroum has been a cornerstone of the game since the core rules were released eight years ago. This epic fantasy roleplaying game adventure series takes players on a journey across the Davokar region, culminating in a grand finale that promises to change the game world forever. With the release of the final adventure, "Davokar Awakens," it's an opportune time to examine the campaign as a whole and consider how game masters might approach running it.

The Cosmic Forces of Symbaroum

At its core, Symbaroum's world is shaped by three cosmic forces:

1. Wyrhna: The power of unbridled nature
2. Wielder: The power of change, control, and civilization
3. Wratha: The reactive force that destroys when Wielder oppresses Wyrhna too much

These forces form a cosmic principle rather than being the main conflict of the game. Instead, the primary tension lies between various factions vying for control and survival in the Davokar region.

Factions and Conflicts in the Davokar Region

The campaign setting is rich with numerous factions, each with its own goals and motivations. However, for the purposes of running a more focused campaign, it's advisable to streamline these into three main factions:

1. The Ambrians
2. The Barbarian Clans
3. The Spiders

The Ambrians

Represented primarily by Queen Korinthia and House Kohinoor, the Ambrians are newcomers to the region, having fled the destruction of their homeland. Within this faction, consider focusing on:

• The Queen and House Kohinoor
• The Cult of the Sacred Old Blood
• Potentially, the Church of Prios (if relevant to player characters)

The Barbarian Clans

The native inhabitants of the region, with various sub-factions. For a streamlined campaign, focus on:

• Clan Karohar (led by High Chieftain Tharaban)
• The Beast Clan (potentially renamed to add gravitas)

The Spiders

An ancient force seeking to reestablish their kingdom. Consider creating two sub-factions:

• Those who wish to resurrect the Spider King
• Those who seek a new form of leadership

Adapting the Adventures

While the Throne of Thorns campaign provides a wealth of material, game masters may want to consider significant adaptations to create a more dynamic, player-driven narrative. Here's an overview of how each adventure might be approached:

Wrath of the Warden

Set in Thistle Hold, this adventure serves as an introduction to the game world and major factions. Consider:

• Discarding much of the original plot in favor of a more consequential storyline
• Introducing key NPCs representing each faction
• Centering the conflict around control of a power node beneath Thistle Hold

The Witch Hammer

This adventure involves a race to find the adventurer Lasifor Nightpitch and the way to Symbar. Adapt it by:

• Making the conquest of Karvosti a central plot point rather than a background event
• Ensuring each faction has a stake in finding Lasifor and Symbar
• Concluding with a meaningful encounter with Lasifor, rather than just finding a stone tablet

Yndaros: The Darkest Star

Set in the Ambrian capital, this adventure can be modified by:

• Tying the antagonist, Sarvola, to one of the major factions (e.g., the Cult of the Sacred Old Blood)

• Making the search for Symbar's tomb and the map to Symbar Arum the central focus

• Concluding with a multi-faction confrontation at the stone ship

Symbar: Mother of Darkness

This adventure can largely be played as written, with some adjustments:

• Ensure expeditions to Symbar represent all major factions
• Maintain the focus on reaching and claiming the Throne of Thorns
• Introduce the concept of the Roseweave as a crucial element for controlling the throne

The Haunted Waste

Adapt this adventure by:

• Making it a race between factions to find the Roseweave
• Creating opportunities for conflict between factions at major plot locations

Davokar Awakens

For the campaign's finale:

• Allow the players' choices and alliances throughout the campaign to influence their starting point and motivations
• Ensure at least three major factions are represented in the final confrontation at Symbar
• Consider more epic uses of major elements, such as the giant Gavaroka

Running a Dynamic Campaign

To create a more engaging and responsive campaign experience:

1. Focus on the three main factions and their key representatives
2. Allow player actions to significantly influence the balance of power
3. Create opportunities for shifting alliances and betrayals
4. Adapt locations and NPCs from the original adventures, but be willing to discard pre-written plots
5. Ensure that the fate of the Davokar region reflects the actions and desires of the player characters

Conclusion

The Throne of Thorns campaign provides an excellent foundation for a rich, dark fantasy adventure. By streamlining factions, adapting adventures, and allowing for a more dynamic narrative, game masters can create a truly memorable experience that puts their players at the center of the story. While this approach requires more work, the resulting campaign will be uniquely tailored to your group and deeply satisfying for all involved.

Remember, the Davokar region is yours to shape. Let the actions of your players determine the fate of this mysterious and perilous land. With careful preparation and a willingness to improvise, you can transform the Throne of Thorns into an unforgettable saga of power, corruption, and the struggle for survival in a world on the brink of chaos.

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