The science-fiction horror tabletop role-playing game Vast Grimm has launched a new Kickstarter campaign to fund an expansion of its universe. The project introduces new rulebooks, adventures, and a starter set designed for both new and returning players. The game, which uses the rules-light Mork Borg system, is set in a decaying galaxy where humanity is on the brink of extinction from a parasitic plague.
Key Takeaways
- Vast Grimm, a sci-fi horror TTRPG, has a new Kickstarter campaign for expanded content.
- The campaign offers a starter set for new players, an upgrade kit for existing owners, new adventures, and expanded rules.
- The game operates on the Mork Borg rules system, known for its straightforward mechanics and high-stakes gameplay.
- The Kickstarter is scheduled to conclude on October 30, 2025.
The Universe of Vast Grimm
Vast Grimm places players in a desperate and unforgiving galaxy. The setting's lore centers on the near-total annihilation of humanity by parasitic worms. These creatures transform their hosts into monstrous entities known collectively as the Grimm.
Players take on the roles of survivors, members of a group called the Legion. Their primary objective is not to defeat the overwhelming threat, but to survive long enough to escape the galaxy before it completely collapses. This premise establishes a tone of constant peril and desperation, where survival is the only meaningful victory.
The narrative framework is intentionally bleak, emphasizing the struggle against insurmountable odds. This theme is consistent with the grimdark subgenre, drawing parallels to established universes like Warhammer 40,000, particularly in the nature of its galaxy-consuming threats.
What is a 'Grimdark' Setting?
Grimdark is a subgenre of speculative fiction characterized by a dystopian, amoral, or violent tone. In these settings, protagonists are often anti-heroes, and the line between good and evil is blurred or nonexistent. The focus is typically on survival in a harsh, uncaring world where happy endings are rare.
Gameplay Mechanics and the Mork Borg System
Vast Grimm is built upon the foundation of the Mork Borg TTRPG system. This system is known for its minimalist, or "rules-light," approach. Instead of complex rule sets, it prioritizes fast-paced gameplay, atmosphere, and a high degree of lethality for player characters.
The design philosophy of Mork Borg aligns with the thematic goals of Vast Grimm. The simple rules allow game masters and players to focus on the narrative of survival and horror without getting slowed down by intricate mechanics. Character creation is often quick, and the expectation is that characters may not survive for long, reinforcing the game's dangerous setting.
This approach makes the game accessible to players who are new to tabletop role-playing. However, the high stakes and dark themes cater to those who enjoy challenging scenarios where character death is a common and expected outcome.
New Content in the Kickstarter Campaign
The latest fundraising campaign for Vast Grimm aims to deliver a significant amount of new material for the game. The offerings are structured to appeal to both newcomers and veteran players who already own the original core rulebook.
A Starter Set for Newcomers
A key component of the Kickstarter is a new starter set. This package is specifically designed to be an entry point for individuals unfamiliar with Vast Grimm or the Mork Borg system. It includes the necessary materials and introductory content to begin playing immediately, lowering the barrier to entry for prospective fans.
Upgrade Kit for Existing Players
For those who supported previous campaigns or purchased the original core rulebook, an upgrade kit is available. This option allows existing fans to receive all the updated and expanded rules content without needing to repurchase the entire book. This acknowledges the existing community and provides a cost-effective way for them to stay current with the game's evolution.
Campaign Deadline
According to the project page, the Kickstarter campaign for Vast Grimm - Escaping Stasis is set to end on October 30, 2025. All tiers and rewards are available for backing until this date.
Expanded Adventures and Lore
Beyond the core materials, the campaign promises to fund new adventure modules and further expansions to the game's lore. These additions provide fresh scenarios for game masters to run and deepen the narrative of the dying galaxy. The project also includes physical merchandise and comics set within the Vast Grimm universe, offering other ways for fans to engage with the world.
Aesthetic and Creative Inspirations
Vast Grimm is defined by its distinct visual style, which combines elements of 1980s horror with a psychedelic punk aesthetic. The artwork featured in its sourcebooks uses a vibrant, almost neon color palette that contrasts sharply with the game's dark and gory themes.
This unique art direction creates a memorable identity for the game. Reviewers and fans have compared the visual and thematic tone to cult classic films such as Return of the Living Dead, which blended punk rock culture with graphic horror. Other cited inspirations include landmark science-fiction horror films like Aliens and Event Horizon.
The game's art style is described as a clash of "grim neon artwork" across its detailed sourcebooks, creating a visually striking experience that complements its bleak narrative.
This focus on a strong aesthetic helps immerse players in the world. The combination of cosmic horror, body horror from the parasitic worms, and a stylized, retro-futuristic look provides a unique experience within the crowded TTRPG market. The game's creators have leaned into this identity, ensuring that even in moments of horrific character death, the experience is visually memorable.