Posted this to Twitter tonight (https://twitter.com/byodinsbeardrpg):

Thought I'd give a development update on my #Cairn hack #Runecairn. I've taken @yochaigal1's framework and hacked it to fit both the Norse setting/theme and crunchier Dark Souls-style mechanics. Changed Will to Wits and added a 4th core ability called Spirit

Aside from other similar labelling changes, I've added a new mechanic to combat called Reactions. This adds extra interaction where the PC can attempt to dodge/block/parry an enemy's attack, at the cost of Fatigue. There are also added skills such as backstab

Backstab doesn't cost Fatigue but if the PC fails the save the enemy gets an attack with enhanced damage. Skills usually either cost Fatigue or have the risk/reward of enhanced damage. Following my first playtest last night, I've also changed up the HP system

I initially had static HP dependent on the starting class (more on those later) rather than a d6 for HP. One of the new mechanics I've added was initially tied to Spirit (and therefore tied to the "cleric" class) but I've since split out to its own stat, Vigour

Vigour is similar to the Humanity/Hollow stat in Dark Souls. The higher your Vigour, the more drive/focus/self-determination you have. The biggest change from Cairn to Runecairn is the addition of the bonfire and respawn mechanic from Dark Souls

When a PC dies, they respawn at the last bonfire rested at. All enemies respawn as well, except for stronger creatures like jotunn or gods. Every death drops your Vigour by 1; if you hit 0 your character becomes a hollow shade, lost to darkness

I've got the 4 core starting classes laid out: warrior, thief, magician, and skald (cleric). Each has different starting equipment and abilities and have different approaches to combat. I've laid out some weapons, items, spells, and enemies but I wanted to test the core mechanics

Looks like Runecairn's going to work best as a solo game (warden and player), but I want to look into solitaire play as well. I've also started developing a Roll20 character sheet, which is a lot more complicated than I expected

I'm really enjoying the process so far and I'm looking forward to the next playtest!

-  Colin