Welcome to the Kingmaker Players Guide, your primer for the epic Pathfinder Adventure Path. This spoiler-free guide provides essential context for creating characters from Brevoy and beyond, offering advice on ancestries, classes, and alignments. It also introduces the core mechanics of kingdom building and warfare, ensuring players are prepared for the challenges of the Stolen Lands. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or new to the world of Pathfinder, this guide will help you navigate the vast opportunities and dangers of the River Kingdoms, setting you on the path to becoming a legend.
1.1 Overview of the Kingmaker Adventure Path
The Kingmaker Adventure Path is an epic campaign designed for Pathfinder, taking players on a journey from humble beginnings to ruling a kingdom. Set in the Stolen Lands, a vast and unforgiving wilderness, the adventure blends exploration, combat, and kingdom-building mechanics. Players start in the nation of Brevoy before venturing into the untamed frontier, where they must establish their own kingdom, manage resources, and defend against threats. This sprawling narrative spans multiple volumes, guiding characters from level 1 to 15 or higher. With its rich lore, complex gameplay, and deep customization options, Kingmaker offers a unparalleled tabletop experience, challenging players to balance heroism with leadership. It is one of Paizo’s most iconic and immersive Adventure Paths, perfect for those seeking a long-term, story-driven campaign.
1.2 Purpose of the Players Guide
The Kingmaker Players Guide serves as an essential companion for players embarking on the Kingmaker Adventure Path, providing tools, resources, and insights to enhance their experience. It is designed to help players prepare for the challenges of exploring the Stolen Lands, building a kingdom, and navigating the complexities of the campaign. This guide offers detailed character creation advice, tips for navigating the wilderness, and strategies for managing a kingdom. It also explores the lore and factions of the region, ensuring players are well-informed about the world they inhabit. The guide avoids spoilers, making it safe for players to use alongside the adventure path. Its goal is to empower players with the knowledge they need to create memorable characters and thrive in the epic journey of Kingmaker.
1.3 Key Features of the Guide
The Kingmaker Players Guide is packed with essential tools and resources to enhance your adventure. It includes detailed character creation options, such as ancestry, class, and background choices tailored for the Stolen Lands. The guide provides kingdom-building mechanics, offering strategies for managing resources, diplomacy, and warfare. Additionally, it covers exploration tips, including how to navigate the wilderness and deal with enemies. The guide also delves into the lore of the Stolen Lands and Brevoy, introducing major factions and NPCs. It offers advice for collaborative storytelling and party dynamics, ensuring a cohesive and engaging experience. With optional rules and customization options, the guide empowers players to craft unique characters and shape their kingdom’s destiny. Its comprehensive yet focused approach makes it an indispensable resource for both new and veteran players.
Character Creation for Kingmaker
Character creation in Kingmaker involves selecting ancestry, class, and background that align with the Stolen Lands’ gritty, high-fantasy setting. Optimize mechanical potential and craft compelling narratives.
2.1 Choosing the Right Ancestry
Selecting the right ancestry is crucial in Kingmaker, as it defines your character’s traits and background. Each ancestry offers unique abilities and bonuses that can shape your playstyle. For instance, humans gain extra feat slots, elves excel in precision and stealth, and dwarves are resilient with bonuses to Constitution. Halflings and gnomes also bring distinct advantages, such as luck and cleverness, respectively. Consider the campaign’s focus on exploration and survival when choosing. Align your ancestry with your character’s class and background for synergy. Additionally, lore-friendly options like half-elves or half-orcs can add depth to your story. Ultimately, pick an ancestry that complements your character’s role in the party and fits the narrative of the Stolen Lands.
2.2 Selecting a Class for Success
Selecting the right class is pivotal for success in Kingmaker. Each class offers unique abilities that cater to different playstyles and party roles. Fighters excel in combat versatility, while Barbarians dominate with raw power and resilience. Rangers and Rogues thrive in survival and stealth scenarios, making them ideal for exploration. Clerics and Druids provide essential support with healing and versatility, while Bards shine in diplomacy and skill-based gameplay. Wizards and Sorcerers offer unmatched magical firepower, crucial for overcoming challenges. Consider your party’s needs and your preferred playstyle when choosing. Aligning your class with your character’s background and the campaign’s demands ensures a balanced and enjoyable experience. Experiment with class archetypes to further tailor your character to the Stolen Lands’ dangers.
2.3 Alignment and Background Considerations
Alignment and background are crucial elements in shaping your character’s identity and role in the campaign. Alignment influences your moral compass and interactions with NPCs, while background provides depth and skill proficiencies. In Kingmaker, alignment can affect how your kingdom is perceived and governed, as certain choices align with specific ethical frameworks. Backgrounds like Acolyte or Noble grant unique skills and story hooks, enriching your character’s narrative. Consider how your character’s alignment and background will interact with the Stolen Lands’ challenges and opportunities. For example, a Chaotic Neutral character with a Thief background may approach problems differently than a Lawful Good paladin with a Knight background. These choices enhance roleplaying and create a cohesive character concept tailored to the campaign’s demands.
2.4 Recommended Builds for Optimal Play
Optimizing your character build is essential for success in the Kingmaker campaign. Focus on classes and archetypes that excel in exploration, combat, and kingdom management. Barbarians and Rogues shine in the wilderness, offering high damage and stealth capabilities. Clerics and Druids provide versatility through healing, buffs, and environmental adaptation. Consider multiclassing for hybrid builds, such as a Fighter/Rogue for precision and survivability. Archetypes like the Eldritch Knight or Ranger (with favored enemy) enhance effectiveness. Feats like Toughness or Great Fortitude boost resilience, while skill feats like Skill Versatility ensure adaptability. Choose builds that complement your party’s strengths and fill gaps in their capabilities. A balanced party with a mix of melee, ranged, and support roles is key to overcoming the Stolen Lands’ diverse challenges. Tailor your build to your playstyle while ensuring it aligns with the campaign’s demands for exploration, diplomacy, and combat.
Kingdom Building Mechanics
Master the art of ruling your kingdom in Kingmaker. Balance resource management, territory expansion, and event resolution to ensure prosperity. Diplomacy, infrastructure, and military strength are key to survival and growth.
3.1 Establishing and Managing Your Kingdom
Building your kingdom in Kingmaker begins with claiming territory and establishing a capital. Assign leaders to key roles, such as treasurer, marshal, and councilor, to manage resources effectively. Balance BP (Build Points), gold, and time to construct buildings, roads, and defenses. Manage kingdom events and decisions, which impact stability, loyalty, and prosperity. Use exploration to uncover valuable resources and locations. Regularly review your kingdom’s stats to ensure a strong foundation. Upgrading infrastructure and recruiting advisors can enhance growth and stability. Effective management requires balancing short-term needs with long-term goals, ensuring your kingdom thrives amidst challenges. Exploration, leadership, and strategic planning are essential for success in this complex but rewarding system.
3.2 Economic and Political Strategies
Mastering economic and political strategies is vital for a thriving kingdom. Manage resources like BP (Build Points), gold, and time wisely to optimize growth. Establish trade routes and infrastructure to boost your economy. Politically, build alliances or exert influence over neighboring regions to secure resources or neutralize threats. Use diplomacy, espionage, or coercion to navigate complex relationships with factions and NPCs. Balance your kingdom’s needs with the desires of your subjects to maintain stability. Upgrade infrastructure and recruit skilled advisors to enhance productivity and efficiency. Make strategic decisions during events to align with your kingdom’s values and goals. A strong economy and shrewd politics ensure your kingdom’s prosperity and dominance in the Stolen Lands.
3.3 Warfare and Defense Systems
Warfare and defense are critical components of kingdom-building in Kingmaker. Establish a strong military by recruiting and training troops, and upgrade their equipment to ensure effectiveness. Fortify your kingdom with defensive structures like walls, watchtowers, and traps to deter invaders. Assign skilled generals and advisors to lead your armies and bolster their morale. Use scouts and spies to gather intelligence on enemies, enabling preemptive strikes or strategic defenses. Balance offense and defense to avoid overextending resources. During combat, utilize terrain advantages and tactical formations to outmaneuver foes. Protect key locations like your capital and resource-generating buildings to maintain stability. A well-prepared defense and a formidable army are essential for safeguarding your kingdom and expanding your territory in the Stolen Lands.
Exploration and Survival in the Stolen Lands
Explore vast wilderness, uncover hidden locations, and survive deadly encounters. Manage resources, navigate terrain, and adapt to challenges in this unforgiving yet rewarding frontier.
4.1 Navigating the Wilderness
Navigating the Stolen Lands requires careful planning and resource management. Use skills like Survival and Nature to identify safe routes, edible plants, and dangerous wildlife. Manage rations wisely, as hunger and thirst can weaken your party. Weather conditions, from freezing snow to sweltering heat, can hinder progress. Utilize tools like maps, compasses, and local guides to avoid getting lost. Terrain varies from dense forests to rocky hills, each posing unique challenges. Encounters with beasts or hostile factions can occur unexpectedly. Balance exploration with caution, ensuring your party is prepared for emergencies. A well-prepared party with the right skills and gear can thrive in this unforgiving environment, turning potential hazards into opportunities for discovery and glory.
4.2 Dealing with Enemies and Hazards
Dealing with enemies and hazards in the Stolen Lands demands strategic thinking and quick reflexes. Combat encounters can range from skirmishes with bandits to epic battles with mythical creatures. Always prioritize resource management, such as spell slots, ammunition, and potions. Use terrain to your advantage, as elevated positions or chokepoints can turn the tide. Party synergy is crucial; ensure each member fulfills their role, whether tanking, dealing damage, or providing support. Environmental hazards like traps, rivers, and falling rocks can be deadly, so remain vigilant and use Perception to spot threats. Adaptability is key—prepare for unexpected ambushes and be ready to retreat if overwhelmed. A well-coordinated party can overcome even the most daunting foes and survive the unforgiving wilderness of the Stolen Lands.
4.3 Key Locations to Explore
The Stolen Lands are filled with diverse and intriguing locations that offer adventure, resources, and opportunities for kingdom-building. The Old Sycamore serves as a central hub, providing branching paths for exploration. The Thorn River is a vital water source, perfect for establishing settlements. The Kamelands and Tusk regions are rich in natural resources, such as timber and ore, essential for construction and economy. Hargulka’s Fort is a key stronghold to conquer, offering strategic advantages. Exploring these areas reveals hidden treasures, allies, and potential threats. The River Kingdoms and Brevoy’s influence also shape the region’s dynamics. Investigating ancient ruins and mysterious sites can uncover powerful artifacts and lore. Prioritizing these locations ensures a strong foundation for your kingdom and prepares you for future challenges in the Stolen Lands.
The Setting of the Stolen Lands and Brevoy
The Stolen Lands offer a diverse wilderness, while Brevoy’s political intrigue and noble ambitions shape the region’s history and conflicts, influencing exploration and kingdom-building.
5.1 Lore and History of the Region
The Stolen Lands and Brevoy are steeped in rich history and lore, shaping the backdrop for adventure and kingdom-building. Brevoy, a land of noble houses and political intrigue, was once part of a greater kingdom that fractured into smaller states. The Stolen Lands, a contested and lawless territory, have been claimed by various powers over the centuries, including the ancient empire of Iobaria. The region is marked by forgotten ruins, mysterious artifacts, and lingering magical energies, remnants of a time when powerful forces clashed. The history of the area is intertwined with the rise and fall of civilizations, leaving behind a legacy of conflict and opportunity. Understanding this lore provides players with a deeper connection to the world, influencing their decisions and shaping their kingdom’s destiny.
5.2 Major Factions and NPCs
The Stolen Lands and Brevoy are home to numerous factions and influential NPCs who shape the story and gameplay. The Stag Lord, a ruthless bandit leader, dominates the early stages of exploration, while the Pathfinder Society offers support and quests to adventurers. The Aldori family, known for their mastery of swords, plays a significant role in Brevoy’s politics. The Surtovas, a mysterious and cunning faction, seek to expand their influence in the region. Key NPCs like Jhod Kavken, a devout priest, and Linzi, a charismatic bard, provide guidance and companionship. These factions and characters create a dynamic environment where alliances and rivalries can greatly impact the player’s journey and kingdom-building efforts. Understanding their motivations and roles is crucial for navigating the complex web of relationships in the game.
Roleplaying and Party Dynamics
Roleplaying enhances immersion, fostering unique personalities and interactions. Strong party dynamics ensure collaboration, making storytelling richer and gameplay more engaging for everyone involved in the adventure.
6.1 Building Strong Character Personalities
Creating memorable characters begins with defining unique traits, backstories, and motivations. A well-crafted personality enhances roleplaying and immersion, making interactions more engaging. Give your character distinct flaws and strengths to add depth. Align their backstory with the Stolen Lands’ lore to create meaningful connections. Motivations should drive their decisions, whether it’s ambition, justice, or survival. Roleplay their personality consistently, influencing how they interact with NPCs and party members. This depth enriches the story and fosters memorable moments. Balancing individuality with teamwork ensures cohesive party dynamics. A strong personality also shapes how your character approaches kingdom-building, adding layers to their leadership style. Embrace creativity to make your character stand out in the world of Brevoy and beyond.
6.2 Collaborative Storytelling Tips
Collaborative storytelling is the heart of any successful Kingmaker campaign. Encourage open communication between players and the DM to weave unique narratives. Players should actively listen to each other’s ideas and build upon them, creating a shared story. Flexibility is key; be prepared to adapt plans based on group decisions. Respect each player’s contributions to ensure everyone feels valued. The DM should act as a guide, presenting opportunities for creativity while allowing the party to steer the story. Balancing individual character moments with group objectives fosters a cohesive adventure. Use in-game events to spark character development and relationships. Embrace spontaneity and humor, as these moments often become memorable highlights. Collaborative storytelling transforms Kingmaker into a dynamic, unpredictable journey shaped by the entire group.
Advanced Rules and Optional Content
Encourage open dialogue between players and the DM to craft a shared narrative. Players should contribute ideas, while the DM provides structure and adaptability. Foster creativity by allowing spontaneity and flexibility, ensuring all voices are heard. Balance individual character arcs with group goals to maintain cohesion. Use in-game events to deepen relationships and spark development. Embrace humor and unexpected twists to enrich the story. Collaborative storytelling makes Kingmaker a unique, dynamic experience shaped by the entire party’s input.
7.1 Customizing Your Character Further
Customizing your character in Kingmaker goes beyond race and class, offering deep personalization through archetypes, feats, and spells. Archetypes like the Eldritch Knight or Rogue Genius allow unique twists on traditional classes, while feats such as Weapon Specialization or Skill Focus enhance specific abilities. Spells can be tailored to fit your character’s theme, with options like arcane trickster or divine caster. Backgrounds and traits add narrative depth, tying your character to the Stolen Lands’ lore. Advanced players can explore multiclassing or prestige classes for complex builds. Optional rules like favored class bonuses or heroic traits further refine your character. With countless combinations, you can craft a truly unique hero, blending mechanics and story to stand out in the campaign.
7.2 Integrating Homebrew Content
Integrating homebrew content into Kingmaker can enhance your campaign’s uniqueness, but it requires careful balance. Players and GMs should collaborate to ensure custom rules, classes, or items align with the game’s tone and mechanics. Start by playtesting homebrew elements in low-stakes scenarios to assess their impact. Use official content as a benchmark for balance, adjusting numbers or effects as needed. Narrative-focused homebrew, such as unique backstory hooks or faction-specific abilities, can deepen immersion without disrupting gameplay. Always document custom content clearly and seek consensus before implementing it. This approach allows creativity to shine while maintaining the adventure’s integrity and fun for everyone involved.
A Beginners Guide to Running Kingmaker
Mastering Kingmaker as a new DM involves careful preparation, flexible pacing, and fostering player engagement. Start by understanding the adventure’s core themes and mechanics. Focus on creating immersive storytelling, balancing combat and exploration, and adapting to your party’s choices. Use the provided resources and NPCs to guide the narrative while allowing players agency. Pay attention to kingdom-building rules and pacing to maintain momentum. Encourage collaboration and roleplaying to enhance the experience. Stay organized, communicate clearly, and enjoy the journey as both a storyteller and a participant in this epic adventure.
8.1 Tips for New DMs
Welcome to the world of Kingmaker! As a new DM, your first step is to thoroughly understand the adventure’s scope and mechanics. Start by reading the core materials and familiarizing yourself with the setting, NPCs, and key events. Prepare session notes and timelines to keep track of the story, but remain flexible to accommodate player choices. Communicate clearly with your players about expectations, tone, and rules. Encourage collaboration and roleplaying to enhance immersion. Don’t hesitate to improvise—Kingmaker thrives on adaptability. Use the Players Guide as a valuable resource for character creation and kingdom-building rules. Focus on pacing, as the adventure can be lengthy. Most importantly, remember that your goal is to create a fun and engaging experience. Embrace the journey, and enjoy the ride with your players!
8.2 Managing Complex Scenarios
Managing complex scenarios in Kingmaker requires a mix of preparation and adaptability. Break down large events into smaller, manageable parts, focusing on player agency and key decision points. Use the adventure’s built-in flexibility to weave player choices into the narrative seamlessly. For example, when dealing with kingdom events or major plot twists, have fallback plans ready to accommodate unexpected outcomes. Prioritize clear communication with your players to ensure everyone understands the stakes and consequences. Leverage the Players Guide for rules clarifications and NPCs to enrich the story. Don’t overload yourself—focus on pacing and let the players drive the narrative; Remember, Kingmaker is as much about exploration and roleplay as it is about combat and strategy. Embrace the chaos and let the story unfold naturally, ensuring a memorable experience for everyone at the table.
Resources and References
Explore official Pathfinder materials, including the Core Rulebook and Kingmaker Adventure Path. Community guides and fan-made content offer additional strategies, builds, and insights for enhanced gameplay.
9.1 Official Materials and Supplements
The Kingmaker Player’s Guide is an essential resource, offering tailored rules and advice for the adventure path. The Pathfinder Core Rulebook provides foundational rules for character creation, spells, and gameplay mechanics. The Kingmaker Adventure Path itself includes six volumes packed with detailed storylines, NPCs, and regional lore. Additional supplements like the Advanced Player’s Guide and Ultimate Magic expand character customization options. Paizo’s official website offers digital versions of these materials, along with tools like character builders and campaign management aids. For deeper dives, Pathfinder Society materials and Chronicles can enrich your understanding of the setting and its factions. These official sources ensure a comprehensive and immersive experience tailored to the Kingmaker campaign.
9.2 Community-Created Content and Guides
Beyond official materials, the Kingmaker community offers a wealth of fan-created resources. Forums like Reddit’s r/Pathfinder_Kingmaker and Discord servers host detailed guides, character builds, and kingdom management tips. Many players share their experiences and strategies for optimizing gameplay. Community-created spreadsheets and calculators help plan character progression and kingdom development. Fan-made adventures and side quests expand the Stolen Lands, offering fresh challenges. Some enthusiasts craft custom maps and artwork inspired by the setting. These resources provide unique perspectives and tools, enriching your campaign. While not officially endorsed, community content can add depth and variety to your Kingmaker experience, fostering creativity and collaboration among players and GMs alike.
The Kingmaker Players Guide is an indispensable resource for both newcomers and seasoned adventurers, offering a comprehensive roadmap to navigate the intricate world of the Stolen Lands. By guiding players through character creation, kingdom management, and strategic exploration, this guide ensures a rich and immersive experience. Its detailed insights into lore, mechanics, and roleplaying dynamics empower players to craft memorable stories and forge lasting bonds with their party. Whether you’re a veteran looking to optimize your playstyle or a beginner eager to dive into the world of Golarion, this guide provides the tools to make your journey unforgettable. Embrace the challenges, explore the unknown, and let your legend unfold in the untamed expanse of the Stolen Lands. The adventure is yours to shape, and the possibilities are endless!