Introducing MAD: Enter the WonderDark
- NamaStacy
- Nov 23
- 4 min read
The world of tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs) is vast and varied, offering countless settings and stories to explore. Among these, the MAD: Enter the WonderDark stands out as a new twist on the traditional Mörk Borg scenarios. This dark fantasy game combines grim storytelling with art by John Tenniel, the artist of the original Alice in Wonderland books. Game mechanics create an immersive journey for players seeking something different from traditional fantasy RPGs.
Exploring a MAD Adventure Scenario
The MAD scenarios for the Mörk Borg ruleset do not look like typical fantasy game adventures. These adaptations plunge players into a post-apocalyptic Wonderland, one destroyed by Alice's first visit to the colorful world. The WonderDark is all that remains - a gray world devoid of color and filled with danger, mystery, and dark magic. The setting is richly detailed, with a focus on atmosphere and mood that draws players deeply into the narrative.
Players take on the roles of WonderDark denezins, such as the Tad Madder and the Blood Queen, survivors who take on a twisted version of the original Mörk Borg character classes. The game emphasizes survival and the consequences of choices made in the harsh environment. This approach encourages creative problem-solving and role-playing, making each session unpredictable and engaging.
Key features of the MAD: Enter the WonderDark scenarios include:
Minimalist ruleset, themed to the WonderDark, and easy to learn.
Striking art style that enhances the dark and gritty tone.
High-stakes gameplay where characters face constant threats.
Unique character choices that create unusual and memorable game sessions.
What is MÖRK BORG?
MÖRK BORG is the core system that powers the MAD world setting and adventure scenarios. It's a TTRPG designed to evoke a sense of doom and despair, inspired by heavy metal music, dark fantasy literature, and apocalyptic themes. The game mechanics are streamlined to keep the focus on storytelling and atmosphere rather than complex rules.
The system uses a d20 dice mechanic with modifiers based on character stats. Combat is brutal and often lethal, reflecting the world's unforgiving nature. Magic is rare and dangerous, adding an element of unpredictability to encounters.
The MÖRK BORG game mechanics center on:
Simplicity: Rules are concise and easy to reference. The 88-page MAD: Enter the WonderDark core rulebook includes the Mörk Borg rules, so there is no need to own/purchase the core Mörk Borg rulebook to play a WonderDark scenario.
Flexibility: Game masters can adapt the setting and tone to match table safety preferences.
Visual storytelling: The MAD core rulebook and supplements feature evocative artwork and layout that inspire creativity.
Immersive storytelling and world-building
One of the most compelling aspects of the MAD scenarios is the potential for rich storytelling. The WonderDark is a dying land filled with strange environmental hazards, deadly creatures, and the ruins of well-known Wonderland locations. Players can explore The Ashen Burrows (the rabbit hole), The Choking Glade (giant mushroom forest), or Heart's Ruin - where the Queen's castle crumbles above her underground dungeons. Each location of the WonderDark holds its own history, and its dark secrets.
Game Masters are encouraged to build on the existing lore, creating personalized WonderDark campaigns that reflect the themes of decay and desperation. The setting supports a wide range of story types, from grim survival tales to dark mysteries and item quests.
To enhance immersion, consider these GM tips:
Use vivid descriptions to bring the post-apocalyptic WonderDark environment to life.
Incorporate WonderDark character class backstories into the scenario.
Reinforce safety - the moral dilemmas of WonderDark characters are VERY different than the usual player and/or characters’ values.
Leverage the artwork from the game materials to set the tone.
By focusing on the depth of the narrative, a MAD adventure becomes more than just a game - it becomes a shared storytelling experience at your table.
What is MÖRK BORG?
MÖRK BORG is the core system that powers the MAD world setting and adventure scenarios. It's a TTRPG designed to evoke a sense of doom and despair, inspired by heavy metal music, dark fantasy literature, and apocalyptic themes. The game mechanics are streamlined to keep the focus on storytelling and atmosphere rather than complex rules.
The system uses a d20 dice mechanic with modifiers based on character stats. Combat is brutal and often lethal, reflecting the world's unforgiving nature. Magic is rare and dangerous, adding an element of unpredictability to encounters.
The MÖRK BORG game mechanics center on:
Simplicity: Rules are concise and easy to reference. The 88-page MAD: Enter the WonderDark core rulebook includes the Mörk Borg rules, so there is no need to own/purchase the core Mörk Borg rulebook to play a WonderDark scenario.
Flexibility: Game masters can adapt the setting and tone to match table safety preferences.
Visual storytelling: The MAD core rulebook and supplements feature evocative artwork and layout that inspire creativity.
Immersive storytelling and world-building
One of the most compelling aspects of the MAD scenarios is the potential for rich storytelling. The WonderDark is a dying land filled with strange environmental hazards, deadly creatures, and the ruins of well-known Wonderland locations. Players can explore The Ashen Burrows (the rabbit hole), The Choking Glade (giant mushroom forest), or Heart's Ruin - where the Queen's castle crumbles above her underground dungeons. Each location of the WonderDark holds its own history, and its dark secrets.
Game Masters are encouraged to build on the existing lore, creating personalized WonderDark campaigns that reflect the themes of decay and desperation. The setting supports a wide range of story types, from grim survival tales to dark mysteries and item quests.
To enhance immersion, consider these GM tips:
Use vivid descriptions to bring the post-apocalyptic WonderDark environment to life.
Incorporate WonderDark character class backstories into the scenario.
Reinforce safety - the moral dilemmas of WonderDark characters are VERY different than the usual player and/or characters’ values.
Leverage the artwork from the game materials to set the tone.
By focusing on the depth of the narrative, a MAD adventure becomes more than just a game - it becomes a shared storytelling experience at your table.
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