Character Creation Challenge 2026 Day 17: Rats in the Wall

Rats in the Wall is a rules-lite game of Cosmic Horror.  It was written by Kobayashi, the author of The Black Sword Hack.  It is set in the 1920's and 30's but there are brief mentions of other times.

 

The game is heavily influenced by Lovecraft, down to the name of the game which is based on one of his short stories.  There is a sanity mechanic and a discussion of the Old Ones, though they are down played a bit because if one of them shows up you are well and truly screwed.

 

Task resolution is 2d6 + Attribute => 8. 

 

The PDF is 54 pages long including covers and character creation is short and easy:

• Distribute 5 points between 5 Attributes.  Range 0 - +3
• Determine Secondary Attributes.
• Choose a Profession.
• Choose a Reputation.
• Get some Gear.

Off we go...