So, one idea that I think is woefully underrepresented in fantasy games is the American south. Which is unfortunate, because I think it has a lot of room for cool flavor distinct from 'asia mash-up' or 'medieval fantasy England.' We even get 'snowy north' or 'desert wasteland' for a rare treat, but rarely swamps and woods. Lets brainstorm some ideas based on stories and lore from that area!
Heres a couple I've got so far:
A fiendish catfish who offers Faustian bargains to those in desperate need, delivering most anything they need, only to claim their lives when its hunger stirs, becoming a beast relentless in it's hunt for it's prey.
A powerful spirit than claims the largest river in the known, the Mississippi rules over a domain that ignores all borders and territories. It is mostly benign, allowing any to partake of its bounty to fish or travel for the simple tribute of blood, coin, harvest or even flattery. Gamblers and fugitives on the run have been known to offer even greater tributes in desperation to beg the Mississippi to speed their travels along the currents. Those who decline the simple offering of respect in exchange for the spirit's hospitality have often found their crafts dashed against the rocks, or their lives claimed by the beings that lie beneath it's depths.
