Understanding the Game Concept
All Flesh Must Be Eaten is set in a world where a zombie apocalypse has occurred, leading to societal collapse. Players assume the roles of survivors navigating this perilous landscape. The game is distinct in its emphasis on horror, survival, and moral choices, allowing players to explore the darker aspects of human nature in extreme situations.
The Premise of the Game
The game is built on the premise that all humans are at risk of becoming flesh-eating zombies, and players must contend with both the undead and the moral dilemmas that arise when society has broken down. This setting creates an atmosphere of tension and uncertainty, as players must constantly evaluate their choices.
Game Mechanics
All Flesh Must Be Eaten utilizes a d10 (ten-sided die) system for its mechanics, making it accessible for both new and experienced players. The game focuses on character abilities, skills, and traits that influence how players can interact with the world around them.
Character Creation
Creating a character in All Flesh Must Be Eaten is a crucial part of the game. Here are the primary steps involved:
- Choose a Concept: Players start by selecting a character concept, such as a soldier, medic, or scavenger, which shapes their abilities and skills.
- Assign Attributes: Characters have five primary attributes: Strength, Agility, Vitality, Intelligence, and Willpower. Players allocate points based on their character concept.
- Select Skills: Skills are chosen based on the character's background and concept. Skills range from combat-related abilities to survival skills and social interactions.
- Determine Traits: Traits add depth to characters, providing unique advantages or disadvantages that can influence gameplay.
Combat and Survival Mechanics
Combat in All Flesh Must Be Eaten is intense and often fatal. Here are some key elements of the combat system:
- Initiative: Players roll to determine the order of actions in combat, creating a dynamic and unpredictable environment.
- Actions: Players can perform a variety of actions, including attacking, defending, or using skills, each with its own consequences.
- Injury and Death: The game has a detailed injury system that affects characters differently based on the severity of injuries, adding realism to the survival experience.
Survival tactics are equally important, as players must scavenge for supplies, manage resources, and navigate the dangers of the zombie-infested world.
Thematic Elements
One of the most compelling aspects of All Flesh Must Be Eaten is its rich thematic content. The game explores several key themes that resonate with players:
Moral Dilemmas
Players are often faced with difficult choices that challenge their morality. Decisions can lead to dire consequences, forcing players to weigh their survival against their ethical beliefs. Examples include:
- Choosing whether to help another survivor at the risk of exposing oneself to danger.
- Deciding how to allocate scarce resources within the group.
- Confronting the possibility of betrayal among allies.
The Nature of Humanity
All Flesh Must Be Eaten delves into what it means to be human in a world where humanity is on the brink of extinction. The game encourages players to explore their characters' motivations and fears, raising questions about identity and survival.
Isolation and Community
The contrast between isolation and community plays a significant role in the game. Players may encounter other groups of survivors, leading to opportunities for alliances or conflicts. The dynamics of these interactions often reflect real-world social issues, making the narrative rich and thought-provoking.
The Community and Its Impact
The community surrounding All Flesh Must Be Eaten is vibrant and passionate. Players engage in discussions, share stories, and create supplemental content that enhances the game experience. Here are some ways the community contributes:
- Homebrew Content: Many players create their own scenarios, characters, and rules, expanding the universe of the game.
- Online Forums: Websites and social media groups dedicated to the game allow players to connect, share experiences, and seek advice.
- Conventions and Events: Gaming conventions often feature All Flesh Must Be Eaten, providing opportunities for players to meet and participate in live-action role-playing (LARP) events.
Conclusion
All Flesh Must Be Eaten is more than just a zombie RPG; it is a deep exploration of human nature set against a backdrop of horror and survival. Through its engaging mechanics, rich thematic elements, and a supportive community, the game offers players a unique experience that challenges them to think critically and empathetically. Whether you are a seasoned tabletop gamer or new to the genre, All Flesh Must Be Eaten provides a thrilling and thought-provoking journey into the heart of humanity during a time of crisis.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is 'All Flesh Must Be Eaten' and what genre does it belong to?
'All Flesh Must Be Eaten' is a tabletop role-playing game (RPG) that falls under the horror and zombie apocalypse genres, focusing on survival in a world overrun by the undead.
What are the core mechanics that differentiate 'All Flesh Must Be Eaten' from other RPGs?
The game uses a unique system based on a d10 (ten-sided dice) mechanic, emphasizing character creation, storytelling, and survival strategies while incorporating various settings and genres beyond just horror.
Can 'All Flesh Must Be Eaten' be played in different settings aside from a zombie apocalypse?
Yes, the game includes rules and modules that allow for various settings, including fantasy, sci-fi, and even historical themes, making it versatile for different storytelling approaches.
What themes are explored in 'All Flesh Must Be Eaten'?
The game explores themes of survival, morality, human nature, and the psychological impact of a world dominated by fear and chaos, often challenging players' decisions under dire circumstances.
Is 'All Flesh Must Be Eaten' suitable for new players, or is it more geared towards experienced RPG gamers?
While 'All Flesh Must Be Eaten' can be complex due to its depth and themes, it is designed to be accessible for new players, especially with the help of experienced game masters (GMs) who can guide them through the gameplay.
Are there any notable expansions or supplements for 'All Flesh Must Be Eaten'?
Yes, there are several expansions and supplements available that introduce new character options, settings, and rules, such as 'All Flesh Must Be Eaten: The Book of Templates' and various genre-specific supplements.
How has 'All Flesh Must Be Eaten' influenced modern horror RPGs?
The game has set a precedent for how horror themes can be integrated into tabletop RPGs, influencing many modern games to explore darker narratives, character-driven stories, and the psychological aspects of survival.
