Before we review The Ritual, I would like to thank the authors Dario Lazzari and Silvia Ka for sending us a copy so we could tell you about it. This is a mystery (as the adventures are called) for Vaesen, the famous nordic horror game from the Swedish publisher Free League Publishing.

If you would like to buy the product after reading this review, you can find it on the DrivethruRpg website in Italian and English for $5.19, about 5 euros.

It is a product created under the Community Content Agreement licence for Free League Workshop and requires the core rulebook to be played. The plot is designed for a party of 3 to 5 detectives, even beginners.

A Mystery to Be Solved

The mystery takes place in autumn. It begins with a letter from Linnea Elfeklint delivered to the characters at Upsala headquarters. It is the sad announcement of the death of Oliver Walsh, a member of the Apollonian Society. The latter was presented in the expansion Vaesen: Mythic Britain & Ireland, the Anglo-Saxon counterpart of the Scandinavian Order of Artemis.

The last will of the deceased will lead the investigators on a journey along the Kungsleden, the King’s Path. Here, they will have to scatter his ashes on Lake Torneträsk, under the Northern Lights. More than a request, this is an obligation because failure or refusal will lead to a fine and exclusion from the Order. The detectives, therefore, have no choice but to embark on a strenuous and by no means peaceful journey.

As always, when it comes to a playable plot, I will try to make as few spoilers as possible so as not to ruin your experience. Just be aware that, as in all Vaesen mysteries, characters have ample time to prepare for their journey by buying what they need and seeking useful information (both at HQ and in Upsala).

In this respect, the author is prodigal with information. There is no risk of the characters leaving unprepared. We also found a useful additional text box perfect for setting the mood.

Sensitive Topics and Introspective Depths

As with all of Vaesen‘s plots, The Ritual also clearly and adequately states what sensitive themes will be addressed during the narrative. One must never forget that we are talking about a horror game and that the group must be aware of the themes and moods they will encounter during the session. I particularly appreciated the clarity of the writing and the care taken in dealing with the proposed themes.

The plot is intended to be played as a stand-alone adventure. However, in an extremely clever way, the author also suggests the chance that could be incorporated into a larger campaign. For this purpose, it is sufficient to transform Oliver Walsh’s last wishes into those of another Son of Thursday already known to the characters or even into those of a deceased character of the group.

Game Props

At the master’s disposal is the right number of images. At the end of the volume are all the necessary handouts to be delivered directly to the table or uploaded to any online gaming platform.

Even in these elements, The Ritual maintains the aesthetics of the official manuals. I particularly appreciated that, in the provided map, the route the characters will have to take during the plot is indicated.

Review of The Ritual Aesthetics

The aesthetics of The Ritual fit perfectly with Vaesen‘s original editorial line. Besides, as I anticipated, it is a product produced under licence from the Free League Workshop, which provides the templates for the layout. Leafing through it, you, therefore, have the impression that you have an official product. It proves to be elegant in its two-column layout and thanks to the flowery decorations that frame the in-depth boxes.

Images also integrate well, although they obviously are less impactful than the official ones. Tables, paragraphs and handouts at the end of the text complete the impression of an aesthetically professional product.

Conclusion of the Review of The Ritual

In conclusion, I can honestly say that The RItual has an interesting plot. It is loosely based on Adam Nevill‘s novel and the movie directed by David Bruckner, but you don’t need to be familiar with these works to play it. I particularly appreciated the author’s imprint and ability to make the setting poignant. Also commendable is the emphasis on character introspection, which is not trivial and not easy, especially in a short storyline.

In its 22 A4 pages, The Ritual is a valuable addition for those who love Vaesen and its dark atmospheres. While retaining the style of the game in its setting, it has defined features and a mood all its own. I am sure it will appeal to fans of the genre also and not only because it is a major challenge for the characters.

In short, if you love nordic folklore horror games and want an engaging and deep storyline, The Ritual is definitely for you.

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