Beyond Myths and Legends 7th edition is a tabletop role-playing game (RPG) that uses a d100 (percentile) system to tell stories inspired by world mythologies and folklore. It is a standalone game, not a supplement for another system, and it emphasizes narrative flexibility over strict simulation.
Background and Origins
The game was first published in the early 2010s by a small independent studio. It grew out of a desire to create an RPG that felt grounded in real mythological traditions rather than generic fantasy tropes. The 7th edition is the latest major revision, incorporating years of player feedback and clarifications to the core rules.
Unlike many RPGs that use a single core mechanic, Beyond Myths and Legends uses a percentile dice system. This means that all actions, from combat to social interaction, are resolved by rolling two ten-sided dice (d100) and comparing the result to a target number. The system is designed to be intuitive for newcomers while offering depth for experienced players.
How the Core System Works
Characters in Beyond Myths and Legends are defined by attributes (like Strength and Intelligence) and skills (like Swordplay and Persuasion). Each skill has a percentage value, representing the chance of success. When a player attempts a task, they roll d100. If the result is equal to or less than the skill value, the action succeeds. A roll of 01 is always a critical success, while a roll of 00 is always a fumble.
The game uses a “success levels” mechanic: if you roll under half your skill, it’s a good success; under a fifth, it’s an exceptional success. This adds nuance without extra dice. For opposed actions (like sneaking past a guard), both sides roll and compare success levels.
Character Creation and Mythology
Character creation is classless. Instead, players allocate points to attributes and skills, and then choose a “Mythic Path” – a template based on a mythological archetype. Examples include the Trickster (inspired by Loki or Anansi), the Guardian (inspired by Greek hoplites or Japanese samurai), and the Mystic (inspired by shamans or oracles).
The game encourages players to draw from real mythologies. The core rulebook includes brief overviews of several pantheons (Greek, Norse, Egyptian, Hindu, and Yoruba, among others) and offers guidance on how to incorporate them into campaigns. It emphasizes respectful representation of living traditions, noting that these are real religions for many people.
Common Problems and Misconceptions
A frequent misconception is that the d100 system is overly complex. In practice, it’s just one roll with a simple comparison. The game’s biggest challenge is the “success levels” math – some players find calculating half and fifth values slow at first. The 7th edition includes a quick-reference chart on the character sheet to mitigate this.
Another issue is that the game’s magic system is open-ended. Spells are not listed as fixed effects; instead, players describe their intent and the GM sets a difficulty based on the scope. This can be creative but may feel vague to players used to defined spell lists. The 7th edition added more examples and a “spell building” guide to help.
How to Choose Between Editions
If you’re new to the game, the 7th edition is the best choice. It’s the most polished, with clearer wording and better organization. If you already own an earlier edition, the changes are mostly clarifications and balance tweaks, not a complete overhaul. You don’t need to rebuy if you’re comfortable with the old rules.
For those coming from other RPGs, consider this: if you like narrative-driven games like Fate or Powered by the Apocalypse, you’ll find Beyond Myths and Legends more structured but still flexible. If you prefer crunchy systems like Pathfinder, you might find it too light. It sits in a middle ground, similar to Call of Cthulhu but with a more heroic tone.
Costs and Availability
The 7th edition core rulebook is available in print (hardcover) and PDF. The PDF is typically around $20, while the print version ranges from $40 to $50 depending on the retailer. The game is sold through the publisher’s website and major online stores like DriveThruRPG.
There are also several supplements that add new mythic paths, settings, and adventures. These are optional; the core book contains everything needed to play. If you’re on a budget, the PDF alone is sufficient to start.
Safety and Content Notes
Beyond Myths and Legends is a game, and its content is fictional. However, because it draws on real cultures, the publisher advises GMs to be sensitive when portraying deities and traditions that are still actively worshipped. The book includes a short section on cultural appropriation, suggesting that players research and respect the source material.
There are no explicit rules for graphic violence or horror, but the game can be played that way if the group chooses. As with any RPG, it’s important to establish boundaries and use safety tools like the X-card if needed.
Alternatives to Consider
If you’re interested in mythology-based RPGs, there are other options. Scion (2nd Edition) focuses on demigods in the modern world, using a Storypath system. Gods of the Fall (Cypher System) lets players become gods. Mythras is a d100 system with a more grounded, historical feel. Each has a different tone – Scion is action-packed, Mythras is gritty, and Beyond Myths and Legends is more narrative and flexible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Beyond Myths and Legends 7th edition compatible with older editions?
Yes, mostly. The core mechanics are the same, so older adventures and supplements can be used with minimal conversion. The 7th edition clarified some rules and tweaked skill costs, but you can still run older content with the new book.
How many players do you need?
You need one Game Master (GM) and at least one player. The game works best with 3-5 players plus the GM, but it’s flexible. The rules include advice for solo play, though it’s not the primary focus.
Can I play without a GM?
The game is designed for a GM, but there are community-made solo play variants. The 7th edition includes a short appendix on “GM-less play” using an oracle system, but it’s experimental. For the full experience, a GM is recommended.
Do I need to know mythology to play?
No. The rulebook provides enough context for each mythic path and pantheon. You can also create your own fictional mythology if you prefer. Knowing real myths adds flavor but isn’t required.
Is the game suitable for children?
The core book doesn’t contain explicit content, but it deals with mature themes like war and betrayal. The publisher suggests it’s suitable for ages 12 and up. Parents should review the content to see if it fits their family’s values.
Where can I find a group to play with?
You can find players on RPG forums, Discord servers, and local game stores. The publisher’s website has a community page with a looking-for-group section. Online play is common using virtual tabletops like Roll20.
Related
- Norse Mythology Sun and Moon Wolves Explained
- Chandra: The Moon Deity in Hindu Mythology
- Tsukuyomi: The Moon Deity in Japanese Mythology
How pages are sourced and corrected: Sources and editorial policy.