paizo.com Recent Reviews of Pathfinder Chronicles: Book of the Damned—Volume 1: Princes of Darkness (PFRPG)paizo.com Recent Reviews of Pathfinder Chronicles: Book of the Damned—Volume 1: Princes of Darkness (PFRPG)2021-11-19T19:30:17Z2021-11-19T19:30:17ZPathfinder Chronicles: Book of the Damned—Volume 1: Princes of Darkness (PFRPG): Devilishly Good (5 stars)Jhaemanhttps://paizo.com/products/btpy8a6f?Pathfinder-Chronicles-Book-of-the-Damned-Volume-1-Princes-of-Darkness2017-10-26T23:47:31Z<p><b>Pathfinder Chronicles: Book of the Damned—Volume 1: Princes of Darkness (PFRPG)</b></p><p>In the cosmology of the official Pathfinder campaign setting of Golarion, the infernal planes are divided by alignment and the type of fiends that reside there: Hell (occupied by Lawful Evil devils); Abaddon (occupied by Neutral Evil daemons); and the Abyss (occupied by Chaotic evil demons). The first entry in the three-volume "Book of the Damned" series, Princes of Darkness, is devoted to the devils of Hell. Devils in Pathfinder value order, hierarchy, and gaining new mortal souls through trickery and temptation in the form of infernal contracts. This 64-page book contains a wealth of information on Hell, including sections on each of its 9 layers, its capital, the various types of devils, and a new prestige class for devil-worshipping diabolists. I've never dabbled much with this aspect of D&D-based RPGs, but I thought this book was really well done and definitely value for the money. I suppose the weird thing with this review is that I'm writing it •after• the Book of the Damned hardcover has been released, and that book collects and updates the material in Princes of Darkness. But I have this book and not that one, and I'm a completist. So, here we go.</p>
<p>In terms of artwork, you can judge the front cover for yourself—I think it's very cool and has the right feel. The interior art is also great, with one or two exceptions. Page layout and design is top-notch, with well-placed sidebars and little illustrations here and there that fit the theme. Particularly well-done are the pages from the in-universe "Book of the Damned" (which I'll explained in a minute), as they're in script on a parchment-style background. Very cool.</p>
<p>The interior front cover lists the symbols of the various archdevils of Hell, and I'm sorry to say they look a bit amateurish to me. The interior back cover lists the things a devil-worshipping cleric would need to know, including the domains, areas of concern, and favored weapons of the various denizens of Hell. It's quite detailed, with Asmodeus, the eight archdevils, the four "Whore Queens", twenty-eight "infernal dukes", and twelve "malbranche". The book itself is divided into four main sections: Hell and the Archdevils (descriptions of the various layers and their lords), Devilkind (explaining the different types of devils), Diabolatry (devil worship), and Diablerie (a bestiary of new devils). </p>
<p>Between these sections are two-page long inserts presented as if they were real extracts from the in-universe Book of the Damned, a catalog of the infernal planes written by an angel named Tabris (who, himself, has a fantastic story developed in later books!). Three of these extracts ("Before", "Order", and "Exodus") talk about the origins of Hell, a story which at first is too vague and a bit boring until you realize how directly the ruler of Hell (Asmodeus) is tied into the creation of the universe itself. Other extracts briefly discuss Dis (the greatest of Hell's cities) and the internal organization of Hell (briefly describing the various lesser, but still important, players in Hell).</p>
<p>The first main section, "Hell and the Archdevils" (20 pages) takes up about a third of the book. There's a very brief introduction that covers some of the features of Hell, like Hellfire, Hellmouths, and the River Styx. Each of the nine layers of Hell is then covered, with one page devoted to the layer itself and one page devoted to its ruler. I'm tempted to go layer-by-layer, but that would make for a very long review so I'll just mention a few things. Each of the nine layers revolves around a different concept—for example, the third level (Mammon) is the treasure vaults of Hell and home to those mortal souls who were dominated by greed, while Stygia, the fifth level, is the source of blasphemy, heresy, and corrupted faiths. There's definitely some echoes of Dante's Inferno here. I especially like how the rulers of each layer are far more than just embodiments of particular sins—they have unique personalities and backstories. The writing is top-notch and quite impressive for a sole-authored book. I suppose that if I had to be picky, I would single out the artwork of Geryon (lord of Stygia) as being kinda silly and state that Nessus (the 9th layer of Hell) is kind of bland. I might even note that Asmodeus' throne is, visually, much cooler than he is! But really, this is the heart of the book and it's great.</p>
<p>"Devilkind", the second main section (8 pages) clearly explains how the various denizens of Hell are sorted by power level with themes of authority and submission respected throughout. Advancement is possible, but sometimes only through self-administered torture! The main creatures discussed are imps, barbazus, erinyes, osyluths, hamatulas, gelugons, cornugons, and pit fiends. Most of these were new to me, and the book did a really good job explaining their various roles in Hell. Devil-summoners will be pleased to note that there are suggestions on how to make fiends more amenable to negotiations (such as telling osyluths secret vices of mortal rulers to gain a +2 bonus on Charisma checks). The "infernal nobility" of Hell receive a few paragraphs of description each: Infernal Dukes (who rule particular sections of each layer under the supervision of the archdevils), the Whore Queens (fallen angels who operate schemes throughout Hell), and the Malebranche (the generals of Hell's armies).</p>
<p>"Diabolatry" (14 pages) is the third section. It has information on infernal contracts (in which a mortal agrees to trade their soul for a boon) and includes tips on how a GM should handle them in-game. The little sample contract is a good template. New magic items called "devil talismans" are introduced, and they're quite powerful, providing the ability to draw on the powers of devils bound within them. Next, there's information on the importance of and how to discover the true names of devils. Perhaps of most interest to players in this book is the Diabolist prestige class; it looks quite flavourful (gaining an imp companion and bonuses to negotiting with summoned devils), and I like the "Damned" class feature: when the diabolist is killed, her soul is instantly sent to Hell and raising that character from the dead requires a high caster level check. Five new spells appear in this section as well, and they're really fun to read even though I've never seen any of them in a game. Perhaps a curious omission is how little reference there is to Golarion and whether/where there are specific concentrations of devil-worshippers in particular areas. I know about Cheliax, for example, but to a new reader this could appear as a setting-neutral book.</p>
<p>The final chapter is "Diablierie" (10 pages). Four creatures get two-page spreads with stat blocks, descriptions, and artwork: Apostate Devils (specialists in turning mortals away from their faiths), Heresy Devils (specialists in undermining established religions through corruption and heresy); Host Devils (hunters of souls that have evaded capture in Hell), and Warmonger Devils (construct-like war machines). The artwork is especially good in this section and each of the new creatures is interesting and well-described.</p>
<p>There's a •lot• to like about Princes of Darkness, and I would definitely recommend it for anyone planning to introduce devils or Hell into their campaign. It's very much a GM book, with only occasional bits of potential interest to players. One disappointment I do have in the book is that it's still really hard for me to picture what adventures or even encounters in Hell would look like. Something like a "Running Games in Hell" sidebar (with suggested Average Party Level for different types of stories) would be really useful in trying to conceptualize adventures there. Overall though, this is a great book and well-worth a purchase whether in PDF from Paizo or in hard copy from a used book seller.</p><p><b>Pathfinder Chronicles: Book of the Damned—Volume 1: Princes of Darkness (PFRPG)</b></p><p>In the cosmology of the official Pathfinder campaign setting of Golarion, the infernal planes are divided by alignment and the type of fiends that reside there: Hell (occupied by Lawful Evil devils); Abaddon (occupied by Neutral Evil daemons); and the Abyss (occupied by Chaotic evil demons). The first entry in the three-volume "Book of the Damned" series, Princes of Darkness, is devoted to the devils of Hell. Devils in Pathfinder value order, hierarchy, and gaining new mortal souls through trickery and temptation in the form of infernal contracts. This 64-page book contains a wealth of information on Hell, including sections on each of its 9 layers, its capital, the various types of devils, and a new prestige class for devil-worshipping diabolists. I've never dabbled much with this aspect of D&D-based RPGs, but I thought this book was really well done and definitely value for the money. I suppose the weird thing with this review is that I'm writing it •after• the Book of the Damned hardcover has been released, and that book collects and updates the material in Princes of Darkness. But I have this book and not that one, and I'm a completist. So, here we go.</p>
<p>In terms of artwork, you can judge the front cover for yourself—I think it's very cool and has the right feel. The interior art is also great, with one or two exceptions. Page layout and design is top-notch, with well-placed sidebars and little illustrations here and there that fit the theme. Particularly well-done are the pages from the in-universe "Book of the Damned" (which I'll explained in a minute), as they're in script on a parchment-style background. Very cool.</p>
<p>The interior front cover lists the symbols of the various archdevils of Hell, and I'm sorry to say they look a bit amateurish to me. The interior back cover lists the things a devil-worshipping cleric would need to know, including the domains, areas of concern, and favored weapons of the various denizens of Hell. It's quite detailed, with Asmodeus, the eight archdevils, the four "Whore Queens", twenty-eight "infernal dukes", and twelve "malbranche". The book itself is divided into four main sections: Hell and the Archdevils (descriptions of the various layers and their lords), Devilkind (explaining the different types of devils), Diabolatry (devil worship), and Diablerie (a bestiary of new devils). </p>
<p>Between these sections are two-page long inserts presented as if they were real extracts from the in-universe Book of the Damned, a catalog of the infernal planes written by an angel named Tabris (who, himself, has a fantastic story developed in later books!). Three of these extracts ("Before", "Order", and "Exodus") talk about the origins of Hell, a story which at first is too vague and a bit boring until you realize how directly the ruler of Hell (Asmodeus) is tied into the creation of the universe itself. Other extracts briefly discuss Dis (the greatest of Hell's cities) and the internal organization of Hell (briefly describing the various lesser, but still important, players in Hell).</p>
<p>The first main section, "Hell and the Archdevils" (20 pages) takes up about a third of the book. There's a very brief introduction that covers some of the features of Hell, like Hellfire, Hellmouths, and the River Styx. Each of the nine layers of Hell is then covered, with one page devoted to the layer itself and one page devoted to its ruler. I'm tempted to go layer-by-layer, but that would make for a very long review so I'll just mention a few things. Each of the nine layers revolves around a different concept—for example, the third level (Mammon) is the treasure vaults of Hell and home to those mortal souls who were dominated by greed, while Stygia, the fifth level, is the source of blasphemy, heresy, and corrupted faiths. There's definitely some echoes of Dante's Inferno here. I especially like how the rulers of each layer are far more than just embodiments of particular sins—they have unique personalities and backstories. The writing is top-notch and quite impressive for a sole-authored book. I suppose that if I had to be picky, I would single out the artwork of Geryon (lord of Stygia) as being kinda silly and state that Nessus (the 9th layer of Hell) is kind of bland. I might even note that Asmodeus' throne is, visually, much cooler than he is! But really, this is the heart of the book and it's great.</p>
<p>"Devilkind", the second main section (8 pages) clearly explains how the various denizens of Hell are sorted by power level with themes of authority and submission respected throughout. Advancement is possible, but sometimes only through self-administered torture! The main creatures discussed are imps, barbazus, erinyes, osyluths, hamatulas, gelugons, cornugons, and pit fiends. Most of these were new to me, and the book did a really good job explaining their various roles in Hell. Devil-summoners will be pleased to note that there are suggestions on how to make fiends more amenable to negotiations (such as telling osyluths secret vices of mortal rulers to gain a +2 bonus on Charisma checks). The "infernal nobility" of Hell receive a few paragraphs of description each: Infernal Dukes (who rule particular sections of each layer under the supervision of the archdevils), the Whore Queens (fallen angels who operate schemes throughout Hell), and the Malebranche (the generals of Hell's armies).</p>
<p>"Diabolatry" (14 pages) is the third section. It has information on infernal contracts (in which a mortal agrees to trade their soul for a boon) and includes tips on how a GM should handle them in-game. The little sample contract is a good template. New magic items called "devil talismans" are introduced, and they're quite powerful, providing the ability to draw on the powers of devils bound within them. Next, there's information on the importance of and how to discover the true names of devils. Perhaps of most interest to players in this book is the Diabolist prestige class; it looks quite flavourful (gaining an imp companion and bonuses to negotiting with summoned devils), and I like the "Damned" class feature: when the diabolist is killed, her soul is instantly sent to Hell and raising that character from the dead requires a high caster level check. Five new spells appear in this section as well, and they're really fun to read even though I've never seen any of them in a game. Perhaps a curious omission is how little reference there is to Golarion and whether/where there are specific concentrations of devil-worshippers in particular areas. I know about Cheliax, for example, but to a new reader this could appear as a setting-neutral book.</p>
<p>The final chapter is "Diablierie" (10 pages). Four creatures get two-page spreads with stat blocks, descriptions, and artwork: Apostate Devils (specialists in turning mortals away from their faiths), Heresy Devils (specialists in undermining established religions through corruption and heresy); Host Devils (hunters of souls that have evaded capture in Hell), and Warmonger Devils (construct-like war machines). The artwork is especially good in this section and each of the new creatures is interesting and well-described.</p>
<p>There's a •lot• to like about Princes of Darkness, and I would definitely recommend it for anyone planning to introduce devils or Hell into their campaign. It's very much a GM book, with only occasional bits of potential interest to players. One disappointment I do have in the book is that it's still really hard for me to picture what adventures or even encounters in Hell would look like. Something like a "Running Games in Hell" sidebar (with suggested Average Party Level for different types of stories) would be really useful in trying to conceptualize adventures there. Overall though, this is a great book and well-worth a purchase whether in PDF from Paizo or in hard copy from a used book seller.</p>Jhaeman2017-10-26T23:47:31ZPathfinder Chronicles: Book of the Damned—Volume 1: Princes of Darkness (PFRPG) (5 stars)bsu2006https://paizo.com/products/btpy8a6f?Pathfinder-Chronicles-Book-of-the-Damned-Volume-1-Princes-of-Darkness2014-12-06T19:30:57Z...bsu20062014-12-06T19:30:57ZPathfinder Chronicles: Book of the Damned—Volume 1: Princes of Darkness (PFRPG): Everyman Product Reviews: Book of the Damned (5 stars)Alexander Augunashttps://paizo.com/products/btpy8a6f?Pathfinder-Chronicles-Book-of-the-Damned-Volume-1-Princes-of-Darkness2014-05-17T14:09:57Z<p><b>Pathfinder Chronicles: Book of the Damned—Volume 1: Princes of Darkness (PFRPG)</b></p><p><b><span class=messageboard-bigger>Final Score & Thoughts</span></b>
<br />
<i>Crunch:</i> 5/5 Stars
<br />
<i>Flavor:</i> 5/5 Stars
<br />
<i>Texture:</i> 4.5/5 Stars
<br />
<b>Final Score:</b> 14.5/5 Stars, or 4.75 Stars/5, rounded up for its flavor.</p>
<p>Individually, the three volumes of the Book of the Damned are amazing, excellent reads. The fact that the series managed to hold the same level of quality throughout several years of printing and a slew of authors is a testament to Paizo’s mastery over the evil realms. These planes are ripe for use in adventures of all sorts, and I am pleased to have such a thorough, encompassing guide on the topic. I would highly recommend all three volumes to any GM’s toolbox: they will meet your needs and exceed them a hundred times over.</p>
<p><a href="http://gamingeveryman.wordpress.com/2014/05/16/unbirthday-week-2014-book-of-the-damned/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">For the full review, head to the Everyman Gaming blog.</a></p>
<p>(Note: This review is for all three volumes of the Book of the Damned combined. Not that it matters much; this score applies to all three books equally.)</p><p><b>Pathfinder Chronicles: Book of the Damned—Volume 1: Princes of Darkness (PFRPG)</b></p><p><b><span class=messageboard-bigger>Final Score & Thoughts</span></b>
<br />
<i>Crunch:</i> 5/5 Stars
<br />
<i>Flavor:</i> 5/5 Stars
<br />
<i>Texture:</i> 4.5/5 Stars
<br />
<b>Final Score:</b> 14.5/5 Stars, or 4.75 Stars/5, rounded up for its flavor.</p>
<p>Individually, the three volumes of the Book of the Damned are amazing, excellent reads. The fact that the series managed to hold the same level of quality throughout several years of printing and a slew of authors is a testament to Paizo’s mastery over the evil realms. These planes are ripe for use in adventures of all sorts, and I am pleased to have such a thorough, encompassing guide on the topic. I would highly recommend all three volumes to any GM’s toolbox: they will meet your needs and exceed them a hundred times over.</p>
<p><a href="http://gamingeveryman.wordpress.com/2014/05/16/unbirthday-week-2014-book-of-the-damned/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">For the full review, head to the Everyman Gaming blog.</a></p>
<p>(Note: This review is for all three volumes of the Book of the Damned combined. Not that it matters much; this score applies to all three books equally.)</p>Alexander Augunas2014-05-17T14:09:57ZPathfinder Chronicles: Book of the Damned—Volume 1: Princes of Darkness (PFRPG): Will we burn in heaven, like we do down here? (5 stars)Jim Groveshttps://paizo.com/products/btpy8a6f?Pathfinder-Chronicles-Book-of-the-Damned-Volume-1-Princes-of-Darkness2013-09-07T20:11:31Z<p><b>Pathfinder Chronicles: Book of the Damned—Volume 1: Princes of Darkness (PFRPG)</b></p><p>Disclaimer: I write for Paizo and I know Wes Schneider, and he’s the Editor-In-Chief. That may completely disqualify this review. If you can get past that, what I have to say may help you decide whether you want to buy this book or post your own review.</p>
<p><b><i>“Is misery made beautiful right before our eyes
<br />
Will mercy be revealed or blind us where we stand?”</i></b>
<br />
-Sarah McLachlan, Witness</p>
<p>I have owned this book for approximately four years. During that time, I have referred to it, referenced it, but never just sat down and read it from cover to cover. You know? Like prose instead of an encyclopedia. Recently I was given an assignment that required some insight into the matter of Hell and devils and I grabbed this book. Something in me said, “Why don’t you just read the entire thing, with an eye towards enjoyment rather than just select paragraphs. Take it all in.”</p>
<p>I was glad I did. At this risk of being a suck-up, this is a magnificent piece of work. Allow me to articulate why. Mr. Schneider is not only a skilled editor, the man can write. This is not a book of interesting facts, it borders on poetry. Each sentence is lovingly crafted and considered. Every word is rich and evocative and he spares no imagery to communicate his vision of Hell, it’s denizens, his concepts, and plot hooks and adventure seeds. I imagine he paced the floor after writing each paragraph in order to scrutinize how it might be made better, or he wrote this while high and drunk during a raging thunderstorm. It is poetic without being poetry. What exactly do I mean? The imagery is savage, hideous, and monstrous and yet somehow beautiful.</p>
<p>Let me give you an example of the language: </p>
<p><i>The pristine halls and lavish sanctuaries of Baalzebul’s court are dedicated to his profane glory, perverted visions of a grand cathedral that hide shrines filled with fly-ridden sacrifices and cesspit-like chevets. Within the heights of Betzebbul’s central spire lies the throne room of the archfiend. Here, more than half dead, hangs the suspended and shackled corpse of the forgotten god Azhia, endlessly fed upon by the innumerable flies that make up Baalzebul’s verminous form.</i></p>
<p>Or…</p>
<p><i>Within the deepest pits of Hell, profane smiths rip ingenious blasphemies from the minds of the damned and sculpt soulflesh into creations of unparalleled malignancy. Several diabolical masterworks, creations of exceptional depravity, appear through accounts of history’s darkest annals, leaving wakes of ruin and damnation in their heinous paths.</i></p>
<p>The entire book is that lavish and evocative, save perhaps certain sections of game mechanics which would not be well served by it anyway.</p>
<p>I give this book an easy five stars. I also offer a bucket of tears that Wes’s duties only permit him to write the occasional sourcebook. Would should be so lucky and fortunate if he would, one day, captain a Bastardhall project.</p>
<p>In addition to fantastic prose, there is a generous helping of actual game mechanics (spells, items, artifacts), all of which appear balanced—including a prestige class and 5 new demons. There is something for everyone. Let me stress, it’s cool just to read it.</p>
<p>I would love to see a hellmouth creature someday. It would be weird without a standard movement, but I love the idea of a “living” portal with eyes and other features.</p>
<p>That concludes my review, but I have a few remarks I am going to put behind spoiler tags.</p>
<p>Wes avoids something I have seen in other books and I double down on my praise of him for not following suit. What follows is editorial.</p>
<p>[Spoiler omitted]</p>
<p>Here is some constructive feedback. It in no way warrants the loss of a star. It is minor stuff (and no not grammar and punctuation). </p>
<p>[Spoiler omitted]</p>
<p>I strongly recommend this book for purchase.</p><p><b>Pathfinder Chronicles: Book of the Damned—Volume 1: Princes of Darkness (PFRPG)</b></p><p>Disclaimer: I write for Paizo and I know Wes Schneider, and he’s the Editor-In-Chief. That may completely disqualify this review. If you can get past that, what I have to say may help you decide whether you want to buy this book or post your own review.</p>
<p><b><i>“Is misery made beautiful right before our eyes
<br />
Will mercy be revealed or blind us where we stand?”</i></b>
<br />
-Sarah McLachlan, Witness</p>
<p>I have owned this book for approximately four years. During that time, I have referred to it, referenced it, but never just sat down and read it from cover to cover. You know? Like prose instead of an encyclopedia. Recently I was given an assignment that required some insight into the matter of Hell and devils and I grabbed this book. Something in me said, “Why don’t you just read the entire thing, with an eye towards enjoyment rather than just select paragraphs. Take it all in.”</p>
<p>I was glad I did. At this risk of being a suck-up, this is a magnificent piece of work. Allow me to articulate why. Mr. Schneider is not only a skilled editor, the man can write. This is not a book of interesting facts, it borders on poetry. Each sentence is lovingly crafted and considered. Every word is rich and evocative and he spares no imagery to communicate his vision of Hell, it’s denizens, his concepts, and plot hooks and adventure seeds. I imagine he paced the floor after writing each paragraph in order to scrutinize how it might be made better, or he wrote this while high and drunk during a raging thunderstorm. It is poetic without being poetry. What exactly do I mean? The imagery is savage, hideous, and monstrous and yet somehow beautiful.</p>
<p>Let me give you an example of the language: </p>
<p><i>The pristine halls and lavish sanctuaries of Baalzebul’s court are dedicated to his profane glory, perverted visions of a grand cathedral that hide shrines filled with fly-ridden sacrifices and cesspit-like chevets. Within the heights of Betzebbul’s central spire lies the throne room of the archfiend. Here, more than half dead, hangs the suspended and shackled corpse of the forgotten god Azhia, endlessly fed upon by the innumerable flies that make up Baalzebul’s verminous form.</i></p>
<p>Or…</p>
<p><i>Within the deepest pits of Hell, profane smiths rip ingenious blasphemies from the minds of the damned and sculpt soulflesh into creations of unparalleled malignancy. Several diabolical masterworks, creations of exceptional depravity, appear through accounts of history’s darkest annals, leaving wakes of ruin and damnation in their heinous paths.</i></p>
<p>The entire book is that lavish and evocative, save perhaps certain sections of game mechanics which would not be well served by it anyway.</p>
<p>I give this book an easy five stars. I also offer a bucket of tears that Wes’s duties only permit him to write the occasional sourcebook. Would should be so lucky and fortunate if he would, one day, captain a Bastardhall project.</p>
<p>In addition to fantastic prose, there is a generous helping of actual game mechanics (spells, items, artifacts), all of which appear balanced—including a prestige class and 5 new demons. There is something for everyone. Let me stress, it’s cool just to read it.</p>
<p>I would love to see a hellmouth creature someday. It would be weird without a standard movement, but I love the idea of a “living” portal with eyes and other features.</p>
<p>That concludes my review, but I have a few remarks I am going to put behind spoiler tags.</p>
<p>Wes avoids something I have seen in other books and I double down on my praise of him for not following suit. What follows is editorial.</p>
<p>[Spoiler omitted]</p>
<p>Here is some constructive feedback. It in no way warrants the loss of a star. It is minor stuff (and no not grammar and punctuation). </p>
<p>[Spoiler omitted]</p>
<p>I strongly recommend this book for purchase.</p>Jim Groves2013-09-07T20:11:31ZPathfinder Chronicles: Book of the Damned—Volume 1: Princes of Darkness (PFRPG): With Both Parts Hell Has Never Been so Fun (5 stars)April Bowenhttps://paizo.com/products/btpy8a6f?Pathfinder-Chronicles-Book-of-the-Damned-Volume-1-Princes-of-Darkness2012-02-18T19:59:36Z<p><b>Pathfinder Chronicles: Book of the Damned—Volume 1: Princes of Darkness (PFRPG)</b></p><p>If you're going to buy this product, do yourself a favor and pick up the second half. Together these supplements are one of the best supplement products created for the campaign setting. They give you a clear view of hell and the agenda and politics within. They go over each of the lords of hell in detail and will actually make you want a campaign there.</p><p><b>Pathfinder Chronicles: Book of the Damned—Volume 1: Princes of Darkness (PFRPG)</b></p><p>If you're going to buy this product, do yourself a favor and pick up the second half. Together these supplements are one of the best supplement products created for the campaign setting. They give you a clear view of hell and the agenda and politics within. They go over each of the lords of hell in detail and will actually make you want a campaign there.</p>April Bowen2012-02-18T19:59:36ZPathfinder Chronicles: Book of the Damned—Volume 1: Princes of Darkness (PFRPG): Great book, but fills a specific niche (3 stars)Ringtailhttps://paizo.com/products/btpy8a6f?Pathfinder-Chronicles-Book-of-the-Damned-Volume-1-Princes-of-Darkness2011-07-05T15:20:21Z<p><b>Pathfinder Chronicles: Book of the Damned—Volume 1: Princes of Darkness (PFRPG)</b></p><p>I must admit, that as I am a fan of using devils and the Hells as the focus of my campaigns I’m a bit bias towards liking this book.</p>
<p>The book is a 64 page, softcover book focused on a specific topic which comes in at only $20; just how I like my supplement material. The layout and artwork are both impressive and the Book of the Damned Vol. 1 provides a wealth of exciting material as well as a handful of new options for players and GMs alike, including spells, magic items, and even a prestige class. The book also contains a few new and cool devils. Much of the book is fluff, however, but while it seems both well written and well thought out, many people might not appreciate having less usable material in favor of flavor.</p>
<p>In my personal campaigns I’ve gotten a lot of use out of this book, but it will likely not appeal to anyone who isn’t running or playing a game centered around devious and devilish foes. For anyone who is I strongly recommend this book.</p><p><b>Pathfinder Chronicles: Book of the Damned—Volume 1: Princes of Darkness (PFRPG)</b></p><p>I must admit, that as I am a fan of using devils and the Hells as the focus of my campaigns I’m a bit bias towards liking this book.</p>
<p>The book is a 64 page, softcover book focused on a specific topic which comes in at only $20; just how I like my supplement material. The layout and artwork are both impressive and the Book of the Damned Vol. 1 provides a wealth of exciting material as well as a handful of new options for players and GMs alike, including spells, magic items, and even a prestige class. The book also contains a few new and cool devils. Much of the book is fluff, however, but while it seems both well written and well thought out, many people might not appreciate having less usable material in favor of flavor.</p>
<p>In my personal campaigns I’ve gotten a lot of use out of this book, but it will likely not appeal to anyone who isn’t running or playing a game centered around devious and devilish foes. For anyone who is I strongly recommend this book.</p>Ringtail2011-07-05T15:20:21ZPathfinder Chronicles: Book of the Damned—Volume 1: Princes of Darkness (PFRPG): Why it's so hard to like this book? (3 stars)Gorbaczhttps://paizo.com/products/btpy8a6f?Pathfinder-Chronicles-Book-of-the-Damned-Volume-1-Princes-of-Darkness2011-06-21T08:25:57Z<p><b>Pathfinder Chronicles: Book of the Damned—Volume 1: Princes of Darkness (PFRPG)</b></p><p>First volume in Books of the Damned - a series on Evil outsiders - concerns with Devils, the good old manipulative LE schemers of the D&D world. Wes Schneider tackles the job of improving over 3.5ed Fiendish Codex II, which wasn't all that great. Let's see how it goes.</p>
<p>Chapter 1 describes the archdevils (Asmodeus included) and their realms, the layers of hell. No statblocks are given, due to Pathfinder not having epic rules to handle that yet.</p>
<p>Chapter 2 provides information on the ecology of the regular devils, as well as some information on other denizens of hell. I really liked the Whore Queens idea, I must admit.</p>
<p>Chapter 3 presents rules for mortal involvement with devils. Infernal contracts, devil binding, fiendish spells and magic items and a Prestige Class - the Diabolist - are all here. I think it's the best chapter in this book, one that I've actually used.</p>
<p>Chapter 4 is the compulsory bestiary section. Four new devils to pit against your players.</p>
<p>Now, what's my conclusion? Honestly, the style of writing puts me off. The author sinks into Dante/Milton inspiration somewhat too deeply and the result borders on purple prose, with superfluous passages that feel like taken out of some Romantism novel. </p>
<p>The maledictions of the archdevils and their personal histories and drama are are all very well thought out, but this book has very little substance for a GM that runs something less...dramatic. I didn't get that much use out of this book as I hoped for.</p>
<p>For a primer on how to write such book as to make it a worakble source for the GM, refer to the next volume in series, Lords of Chaos, which is far better.</p><p><b>Pathfinder Chronicles: Book of the Damned—Volume 1: Princes of Darkness (PFRPG)</b></p><p>First volume in Books of the Damned - a series on Evil outsiders - concerns with Devils, the good old manipulative LE schemers of the D&D world. Wes Schneider tackles the job of improving over 3.5ed Fiendish Codex II, which wasn't all that great. Let's see how it goes.</p>
<p>Chapter 1 describes the archdevils (Asmodeus included) and their realms, the layers of hell. No statblocks are given, due to Pathfinder not having epic rules to handle that yet.</p>
<p>Chapter 2 provides information on the ecology of the regular devils, as well as some information on other denizens of hell. I really liked the Whore Queens idea, I must admit.</p>
<p>Chapter 3 presents rules for mortal involvement with devils. Infernal contracts, devil binding, fiendish spells and magic items and a Prestige Class - the Diabolist - are all here. I think it's the best chapter in this book, one that I've actually used.</p>
<p>Chapter 4 is the compulsory bestiary section. Four new devils to pit against your players.</p>
<p>Now, what's my conclusion? Honestly, the style of writing puts me off. The author sinks into Dante/Milton inspiration somewhat too deeply and the result borders on purple prose, with superfluous passages that feel like taken out of some Romantism novel. </p>
<p>The maledictions of the archdevils and their personal histories and drama are are all very well thought out, but this book has very little substance for a GM that runs something less...dramatic. I didn't get that much use out of this book as I hoped for.</p>
<p>For a primer on how to write such book as to make it a worakble source for the GM, refer to the next volume in series, Lords of Chaos, which is far better.</p>Gorbacz2011-06-21T08:25:57ZPathfinder Chronicles: Book of the Damned—Volume 1: Princes of Darkness (PFRPG): Very very disappointing.... (1 star)Big Dhttps://paizo.com/products/btpy8a6f?Pathfinder-Chronicles-Book-of-the-Damned-Volume-1-Princes-of-Darkness2011-06-21T07:05:55Z<p><b>Pathfinder Chronicles: Book of the Damned—Volume 1: Princes of Darkness (PFRPG)</b></p><p>I was highly disappointed with this book - the 3.5e WotC Fiendish Codices 1-2 are MUCH MUCH BETTER. </p>
<p>The authors of both Volume 1 and 2 made a good effort, with an obvious desire to show off their vast vocabulary or thesaurus skills (some of their word choices were bizarre, I mean seriously, I don't want to pick up a dictionary on every page). I get it - you guys like big words. Exciting details of the realms governed by the Lords were poor to say the least, no maps are provided, and the excerpts from the Book of the Damned uses a font extremely difficult to read. </p>
<p>Volume 1 made no mention of this but Volume 2 states that statistics for the Lords are not needed as they would completely destroy any heroes (other than Epic) that dared to challenge them. This was disappointing and one of the few running complaints I have had with the Pathfinder books as a whole, including stats for the Gods.</p>
<p>The artwork is for the most part very good. Graz'zt and other of my favorites were not carried over for IP/proprietary reasons I assume.</p>
<p>Having played D&D for ~ 31 years now...I'm hypercritical of course, but Paizo/Pathfinder has saved D&D for me. WOTC's 4e was the last straw. With that being said, these two books were my first two disappointments in the Pathfinder texts.
<br />
The 1e Manual of the Planes about the Infernal Realms was riveting, I read those sections over and over. I have always wanted to run an Infernal campaign "Paladin in Hell" etc. but these books don't provide enough detail to significantly help this project - if anything is emphasized, it's the politics of the Infernal Realms. The Blood War is hardly touched upon either.
<br />
The books are short, also disappointing. </p>
<p>This is basically the same review I posted for Volume 2. </p>
<p>I hope in the future these are redesigned, reworked, expanded with numerous maps and statistics, and re-released using new authors.</p><p><b>Pathfinder Chronicles: Book of the Damned—Volume 1: Princes of Darkness (PFRPG)</b></p><p>I was highly disappointed with this book - the 3.5e WotC Fiendish Codices 1-2 are MUCH MUCH BETTER. </p>
<p>The authors of both Volume 1 and 2 made a good effort, with an obvious desire to show off their vast vocabulary or thesaurus skills (some of their word choices were bizarre, I mean seriously, I don't want to pick up a dictionary on every page). I get it - you guys like big words. Exciting details of the realms governed by the Lords were poor to say the least, no maps are provided, and the excerpts from the Book of the Damned uses a font extremely difficult to read. </p>
<p>Volume 1 made no mention of this but Volume 2 states that statistics for the Lords are not needed as they would completely destroy any heroes (other than Epic) that dared to challenge them. This was disappointing and one of the few running complaints I have had with the Pathfinder books as a whole, including stats for the Gods.</p>
<p>The artwork is for the most part very good. Graz'zt and other of my favorites were not carried over for IP/proprietary reasons I assume.</p>
<p>Having played D&D for ~ 31 years now...I'm hypercritical of course, but Paizo/Pathfinder has saved D&D for me. WOTC's 4e was the last straw. With that being said, these two books were my first two disappointments in the Pathfinder texts.
<br />
The 1e Manual of the Planes about the Infernal Realms was riveting, I read those sections over and over. I have always wanted to run an Infernal campaign "Paladin in Hell" etc. but these books don't provide enough detail to significantly help this project - if anything is emphasized, it's the politics of the Infernal Realms. The Blood War is hardly touched upon either.
<br />
The books are short, also disappointing. </p>
<p>This is basically the same review I posted for Volume 2. </p>
<p>I hope in the future these are redesigned, reworked, expanded with numerous maps and statistics, and re-released using new authors.</p>Big D2011-06-21T07:05:55ZPathfinder Chronicles: Book of the Damned—Volume 1: Princes of Darkness (PFRPG): Really nice book on the underpinnings of evil in the campaign . . . (5 stars)KnightErrantJRhttps://paizo.com/products/btpy8a6f?Pathfinder-Chronicles-Book-of-the-Damned-Volume-1-Princes-of-Darkness2010-11-12T21:09:27Z<p><b>Pathfinder Chronicles: Book of the Damned—Volume 1: Princes of Darkness (PFRPG)</b></p><p>This book has some very nice background material on Hell in the Pathfinder setting, as well as information on the ruling beings of Hell, its layers, and how it works.</p>
<p>Reading through the book makes you really want to find a way to work this information into your campaign. There are disturbing planar cities as well as interesting sites and terrain.</p>
<p>Not only is all of that in place, but the PFRPG rules in the book are a good support to the information, such as the Diabolist PrC, and the rather nasty spells and monsters in the book.</p>
<p>One of the things I really like is that the secret events of the beginnings of the universe MAY be explained, but may not, depending on how reliably you adhere to the source of the information. Wonderful way to expand large scale setting information of this sort.</p><p><b>Pathfinder Chronicles: Book of the Damned—Volume 1: Princes of Darkness (PFRPG)</b></p><p>This book has some very nice background material on Hell in the Pathfinder setting, as well as information on the ruling beings of Hell, its layers, and how it works.</p>
<p>Reading through the book makes you really want to find a way to work this information into your campaign. There are disturbing planar cities as well as interesting sites and terrain.</p>
<p>Not only is all of that in place, but the PFRPG rules in the book are a good support to the information, such as the Diabolist PrC, and the rather nasty spells and monsters in the book.</p>
<p>One of the things I really like is that the secret events of the beginnings of the universe MAY be explained, but may not, depending on how reliably you adhere to the source of the information. Wonderful way to expand large scale setting information of this sort.</p>KnightErrantJR2010-11-12T21:09:27ZPathfinder Chronicles: Book of the Damned—Volume 1: Princes of Darkness (PFRPG): Incredibly Useful. (5 stars)tcavagnehttps://paizo.com/products/btpy8a6f?Pathfinder-Chronicles-Book-of-the-Damned-Volume-1-Princes-of-Darkness2010-08-31T22:00:42Z<p><b>Pathfinder Chronicles: Book of the Damned—Volume 1: Princes of Darkness (PFRPG)</b></p><p>This book is very useful and detailed without being over the top. They give you a great new prestige class, fantastic artwork, a gazetteer of everything you could ever want to know about Hell, and flavorful and useful new magic. I was also relieved to see that they didn't try to stat up the archdevils—in my opinion, that's where 3.5 went wrong.
<br />
They do, however, give you a nice gallery of new devils to use in your game. As a GM, this is a very helpful tool for any game that involves Infernal powers.</p><p><b>Pathfinder Chronicles: Book of the Damned—Volume 1: Princes of Darkness (PFRPG)</b></p><p>This book is very useful and detailed without being over the top. They give you a great new prestige class, fantastic artwork, a gazetteer of everything you could ever want to know about Hell, and flavorful and useful new magic. I was also relieved to see that they didn't try to stat up the archdevils—in my opinion, that's where 3.5 went wrong.
<br />
They do, however, give you a nice gallery of new devils to use in your game. As a GM, this is a very helpful tool for any game that involves Infernal powers.</p>tcavagne2010-08-31T22:00:42ZPathfinder Chronicles: Book of the Damned—Volume 1: Princes of Darkness (PFRPG): Fiendishly Flavourful (5 stars)scottybombhttps://paizo.com/products/btpy8a6f?Pathfinder-Chronicles-Book-of-the-Damned-Volume-1-Princes-of-Darkness2010-05-06T05:24:36Z<p><b>Pathfinder Chronicles: Book of the Damned—Volume 1: Princes of Darkness (PFRPG)</b></p><p>A very flavourful product that will be useful to both NPC's and PC's of a diabolical bent. Information is presented on each of the levels of the Nine Hells, and the archdevils who rule them. There's also extended information on the hierarchy of devils, and some new LE fiends to unleash on your players. Add in some new spells and magical goodies, and this is a great package.</p>
<p>There's also information on literally dozens of powerful devils, from the arches on down, who accept worshippers - which can add some new devilish options to spice up an evil cult, or give you some new character concepts.</p><p><b>Pathfinder Chronicles: Book of the Damned—Volume 1: Princes of Darkness (PFRPG)</b></p><p>A very flavourful product that will be useful to both NPC's and PC's of a diabolical bent. Information is presented on each of the levels of the Nine Hells, and the archdevils who rule them. There's also extended information on the hierarchy of devils, and some new LE fiends to unleash on your players. Add in some new spells and magical goodies, and this is a great package.</p>
<p>There's also information on literally dozens of powerful devils, from the arches on down, who accept worshippers - which can add some new devilish options to spice up an evil cult, or give you some new character concepts.</p>scottybomb2010-05-06T05:24:36ZPathfinder Chronicles: Book of the Damned—Volume 1: Princes of Darkness (PFRPG): Well done! (4 stars)Vojtech Pribylhttps://paizo.com/products/btpy8a6f?Pathfinder-Chronicles-Book-of-the-Damned-Volume-1-Princes-of-Darkness2010-01-23T09:26:45Z<p><b>Pathfinder Chronicles: Book of the Damned—Volume 1: Princes of Darkness (PFRPG)</b></p><p>I must say that I like this better than the stuff I've found in the Book of Vile Darkness and the Manual of the Planes. This thing doesn't look that sterile. I'd appreciate more details on various layers, but the space is limited There is enough to tip the DM's imagination toward the right direction. Maps of infinite layers are impossible to make, but some vaugue illustrtions of the hellscape would support the text nicely IMO. It's good that there are no details on the lords of hell stats, because like gods, they should be nearly allmighty in thir layers and not meant to physically enter the fight against the PCs. Some manifestations, perhaps a template for the lord of hell posessing a humanoid or an outsider would be nice. More detail on the lords of hell personality and way of things would, again, be good to have.</p>
<p>I won't comment on the rules, I didn't play-test them, but I appreciate that there are some basic mechanics describing basic workings of the hell's machinery.</p>
<p>I must say, that I'm pleased overall with this book.</p><p><b>Pathfinder Chronicles: Book of the Damned—Volume 1: Princes of Darkness (PFRPG)</b></p><p>I must say that I like this better than the stuff I've found in the Book of Vile Darkness and the Manual of the Planes. This thing doesn't look that sterile. I'd appreciate more details on various layers, but the space is limited There is enough to tip the DM's imagination toward the right direction. Maps of infinite layers are impossible to make, but some vaugue illustrtions of the hellscape would support the text nicely IMO. It's good that there are no details on the lords of hell stats, because like gods, they should be nearly allmighty in thir layers and not meant to physically enter the fight against the PCs. Some manifestations, perhaps a template for the lord of hell posessing a humanoid or an outsider would be nice. More detail on the lords of hell personality and way of things would, again, be good to have.</p>
<p>I won't comment on the rules, I didn't play-test them, but I appreciate that there are some basic mechanics describing basic workings of the hell's machinery.</p>
<p>I must say, that I'm pleased overall with this book.</p>Vojtech Pribyl2010-01-23T09:26:45ZPathfinder Chronicles: Book of the Damned—Volume 1: Princes of Darkness (PFRPG): Frustrated by lack of archdevil stats (3 stars)Dr. Johnny Feverhttps://paizo.com/products/btpy8a6f?Pathfinder-Chronicles-Book-of-the-Damned-Volume-1-Princes-of-Darkness2009-12-02T19:53:55Z<p><b>Pathfinder Chronicles: Book of the Damned—Volume 1: Princes of Darkness (PFRPG)</b></p><p>I realize that the Chronicles are stat light and fluff heavy, but I was very disappointed in this product for the simple reason that a book titled 'Princes of Darkness' didn't have stats for the archdevils. </p>
<p>This seems to be a trend in PF so far, with no high level content released or even scheduled for release from Paizo. While the Beastiery had stats for some high level monsters (pit fiend, Tarrasque) overall high level stats are few and far between so far from Paizo.</p>
<p>I can only hope Paizo rectifies this once they finally create epic rules for the Pathfinder system, as the archdevils would certainly qualify.</p>
<p>On the plus side, the narrative concerning the devils is well written and informative. I'd have given this product 4.5 or 5 stars had there been some attempt to stat the archdevils, even without solid PF epic rules in place.</p><p><b>Pathfinder Chronicles: Book of the Damned—Volume 1: Princes of Darkness (PFRPG)</b></p><p>I realize that the Chronicles are stat light and fluff heavy, but I was very disappointed in this product for the simple reason that a book titled 'Princes of Darkness' didn't have stats for the archdevils. </p>
<p>This seems to be a trend in PF so far, with no high level content released or even scheduled for release from Paizo. While the Beastiery had stats for some high level monsters (pit fiend, Tarrasque) overall high level stats are few and far between so far from Paizo.</p>
<p>I can only hope Paizo rectifies this once they finally create epic rules for the Pathfinder system, as the archdevils would certainly qualify.</p>
<p>On the plus side, the narrative concerning the devils is well written and informative. I'd have given this product 4.5 or 5 stars had there been some attempt to stat the archdevils, even without solid PF epic rules in place.</p>Dr. Johnny Fever2009-12-02T19:53:55ZPathfinder Chronicles: Book of the Damned—Volume 1: Princes of Darkness (PFRPG): Hell is Cool Again! (5 stars)Ravenmantlehttps://paizo.com/products/btpy8a6f?Pathfinder-Chronicles-Book-of-the-Damned-Volume-1-Princes-of-Darkness2009-11-26T14:22:36Z<p><b>Pathfinder Chronicles: Book of the Damned—Volume 1: Princes of Darkness (PFRPG)</b></p><p><b>Pathfinder Chronicles: Book of the Damned—Volume 1: Princes of Darkness (PFRPG)</b></p>Ravenmantle2009-11-26T14:22:36ZPathfinder Chronicles: Book of the Damned—Volume 1: Princes of Darkness (PFRPG): Only one more wish... (5 stars)Luthiahttps://paizo.com/products/btpy8a6f?Pathfinder-Chronicles-Book-of-the-Damned-Volume-1-Princes-of-Darkness2009-11-05T11:14:45Z<p><b>Pathfinder Chronicles: Book of the Damned—Volume 1: Princes of Darkness (PFRPG)</b></p><p>Being a fan of everything related to hell, Asmodeus and that entire aspect of roleplaying, I simply had to get this book. And I can't say that I regret it now, on the third day since picking it up from postal delivery.
<br />
I enjoy the stories and flavour in the start and ending, the content is great and very rich on details.
<br />
The diabolist prestige class covers an area I have missed proper coverage of and has exactly the right feeling of both the great powers a pact with hell has - as well as the ultimate damnation it includes.
<br />
A great thanks for the notes on the Pathfinder version of the Archdukes as well. I am generally very happy that the take manage to have all that I loved and adored about earlier versions of hell, while still being uniquely pathfinder.</p>
<p>At the end of the day all I can say about this is: I wish, burningly, that there was more. And well, I must say a more detailed description of the individual layers of hell, with drawings, maps and more of the (already adorable) interesting locations would definitely be an adorable addition to this book. Especially for GM, who like me, find the urge to send the players on a visit to the plane of LE-alignment nearly irresistible (this book certainly doesn't make that urge smaller!)</p><p><b>Pathfinder Chronicles: Book of the Damned—Volume 1: Princes of Darkness (PFRPG)</b></p><p>Being a fan of everything related to hell, Asmodeus and that entire aspect of roleplaying, I simply had to get this book. And I can't say that I regret it now, on the third day since picking it up from postal delivery.
<br />
I enjoy the stories and flavour in the start and ending, the content is great and very rich on details.
<br />
The diabolist prestige class covers an area I have missed proper coverage of and has exactly the right feeling of both the great powers a pact with hell has - as well as the ultimate damnation it includes.
<br />
A great thanks for the notes on the Pathfinder version of the Archdukes as well. I am generally very happy that the take manage to have all that I loved and adored about earlier versions of hell, while still being uniquely pathfinder.</p>
<p>At the end of the day all I can say about this is: I wish, burningly, that there was more. And well, I must say a more detailed description of the individual layers of hell, with drawings, maps and more of the (already adorable) interesting locations would definitely be an adorable addition to this book. Especially for GM, who like me, find the urge to send the players on a visit to the plane of LE-alignment nearly irresistible (this book certainly doesn't make that urge smaller!)</p>Luthia2009-11-05T11:14:45ZPathfinder Chronicles: Book of the Damned—Volume 1: Princes of Darkness (PFRPG): First thought (4 stars)Patoumondehttps://paizo.com/products/btpy8a6f?Pathfinder-Chronicles-Book-of-the-Damned-Volume-1-Princes-of-Darkness2009-10-21T20:04:31Z<p><b>Pathfinder Chronicles: Book of the Damned—Volume 1: Princes of Darkness (PFRPG)</b></p><p>I haven't finish reading the book so this is not a complete review but something i couldn't wait to get off my chest.</p>
<p>To the editor: Please don't use the font used in the "before" and the "exodus" section. It's simply too hard to read. I got a headache trying to decipher some of the words and it got to the point i had to stop. It's really too bad because i love this kind of flavor text.</p>
<p>The books semms really good though and i can't wait to get my teeth into the main meat.</p>
<p>Pat</p><p><b>Pathfinder Chronicles: Book of the Damned—Volume 1: Princes of Darkness (PFRPG)</b></p><p>I haven't finish reading the book so this is not a complete review but something i couldn't wait to get off my chest.</p>
<p>To the editor: Please don't use the font used in the "before" and the "exodus" section. It's simply too hard to read. I got a headache trying to decipher some of the words and it got to the point i had to stop. It's really too bad because i love this kind of flavor text.</p>
<p>The books semms really good though and i can't wait to get my teeth into the main meat.</p>
<p>Pat</p>Patoumonde2009-10-21T20:04:31Z