Hexcrawl / Exploration

“Hexcrawl / Exploration” games are all about the journey. Whether you're uncovering ancient ruins, navigating dangerous terrain, or charting new territory, the focus is on discovery and player-driven adventure. Hexcrawls add additional structure by using a map where each hex holds new surprises, challenges, or story hooks.

Frequently asked questions about Hexcrawl / Exploration games

Hexcrawl / Exploration Reviews and Actual Plays

Forbidden Stream: Forbidden Lands

Third Floor Wars explores the Forbidden Lands after the Blood Mist lifts from the world, allowing them to explore the wilderness.

Running the Hexcrawl

Chris McDowall, designer of the RPG Mythic Bastionland, explains how to run the hexcrawl portion of his game; some advice is specific to the game itself, but much is applicable to any exploration game!

Return to Dolmenwood

In this old-school style actual play of Dolmenwood, a group of adventurers explore a hex map in the enchanted forest where no one knows what they'll discover next.

Similar styles to Hexcrawl / Exploration

Dungeon Crawl

A “Dungeon Crawl” is a scenario where players navigate a dungeon or labyrinth-like environment for the entirety of the adventure. It emphasizes battling monsters, collecting loot, and avoiding traps to survive to the end!

West Marches

West Marches games are typically run as “drop-in/drop-out” campaigns, where a pool of players hop into sessions as they are available or as sessions align with their schedules. These games focus on a player-led story and exploration, with each session acting as a self contained adventure. Players can experience a variety of stories with a rotating cast within an overarching campaign.

Sandbox / Open World

In "Sandbox" or "Open World" games, players are given a tremendous amount of freedom to pursue their goals without the restrictions of a more linear game style. Players are encouraged to explore and engage with the world, and find their own story as they do so. These games offer the players the opportunity to drive the narrative, and allow for the story to evolve organically through the choices they make.

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