If you have been involved in TTRPGs at all in the last 27 years, you will be familiar with the name Dwarven Forge. Since 1996, the company has been dedicated to creating modular dungeon and terrain environments that are built to last the rigors of time and use. Dwarven Forge has remained relevant for so long in this space by being agile enough to meet the changing needs of table-top gamers in a dynamic market. As an example, Dwarven Forge has run 8 successful Kickstarter campaigns since 2012. Their newest campaign is Cities Untold: Lowtown and the Kickstarter is set to close on February 28, 2023. Let’s take a look at this campaign, and discuss why, I feel, it is an incredibly timely release.
Next-Level Features
You may not have seen the marketing materials for the Cities Untold: Lowtown campaign. If not, I have provided the YouTube video above for your reference. Dwarven Forge shows a continued commitment to a degree of modularity that is only limited by your own creativity. That said, if you haven’t checked in on Dwarven Forge in a bit (as was my case), you might be surprised by some of the next-level features in the Cities Untold: Lowtown campaign. I love the concept of magnetic bases and detail accessories, as they enhance stability and customization, respectively. LED accents are a fantastic use of modern technology. They enhance the ambiance of the setting, and Dwarven Forge employs it in a way that does not break the 4th wall of make believe. And a fogger-enabled chimney rooftop? That is just filthy creative, and I mean that in the best way possible.
It’s all in the timing
That all said, I believe the strongest accolade for the Cities Untold: Lowtown campaign is being incredibly timely. Dwarven Forge already has a vast offering of cityscape terrain pieces. What makes this campaign unique is the new modular roof system that brings playability to the skyline of your terrain. The popular Dungeons & Dragons Online MMORPG has recently released modules set in both Saltmarsh and the Isle of Dread. Fans of the video game might want to move their experience to the table-top setting. If so, they would benefit from the Cities Untold: Lowtown style and tone. Both play settings could leverage the wooden hut designs and elevated pathways mechanic. This would enhance roleplaying in either the marshland or jungle terrains. Finally, the recent release of Dragonlance: Shadow of the Dragon Queen could also benefit from this terrain set. I can’t think of a better set of terrain tiles to bring the tree-city of Solace to life!
Thank God for income tax returns?
Like most things today, a terrain set of this level of quality and functionality doesn’t come cheap. That said, the pieces of the Cities Untold: Lowtown are available in unpainted sets for a discounted price. Indeed, some of us might prefer to do the painting ourselves. Providing that possibility at a commensurate price point is another way Dwarven Forge shows that they “get it.” If you want to take your terrain to new “heights,” I suggest you check out the Cities Untold: Lowtown Kickstarter.
