These comments pertain to the PDF version.
I must echo the positive elements that are already mentioned in other reviews: LOTS of information regarding undersea and by-the-sea adventuring. Feats, hazards, equipment, spells and magic items will keep GMs and players happy for sessions to come. For the existing races and classes, there is substantial information to add new dimensions and flavor campaigns as individuals see fit. The addition of a new 'half breed' race is also well suited for play, and not just ocean-centric campaigns. The cartography is also masterfully wrought. It seems that the bonus of the PDF is that the map is color.
Two disappointments I would like to highlight: Whilst evocative, the map of Ankeshel/Cassadega would benefit from being of a higher resolution. There is some lovely detail in both the shoreline and the shallows, but is unfortunately lost to pixellation, even at only 125% magnification.
The second thing is a minor quibble: The Open Gaming Content appears quite small and in the case of the bestiary, unusually specific as to what a prospective Third Party Publisher may use. By my reading of Sunken Empires' OGL statement (regarding the Bestiary), it appears that whilst Defense/Offense/Statistics/Tactics/Ecology may be used as OGC, the omission of 'Name' and 'Special Abilities' make me believe that those items be considered Product Identity. I am likely wrong, but my point is that I need clarification after reading the statement.
Despite the negatives being wordy, I have only deducted 1/2 a star for each. I would heartily recommend Sunken Empires to anyone, be they looking for some inspiration for a new campaign or to breathe more life into an existing one, world building, or even just interested in making their next character a little different. 4 out of 5 stars from me.
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