Exandria
A vast realm of gods and monsters where mortals forge their own legends.
Exandria is the sprawling, high-fantasy world that serves as the primary setting for the live-played actual play series Critical Role. It was created by Matthew Mercer in 2012 for his personal Dungeons & Dragons campaign. The world acts as the stage for the adventures of three distinct groups of heroes: Vox Machina, the Mighty Nein, and Bells Hells. The world's geography ranges from the lush, island-hopping archipelagos to vast deserts, frozen tundras, and floating cities, each region holding unique cultures and threats. It is a place where epic battles against eldritch horrors and tyrannical empires are fought by mortals who rise to become legends.
Lore & Background
The history of Exandria is a tapestry woven with threads of divine intervention, ancient wars, and the cyclical rise and fall of civilizations. Since the Age of Arcanum, its timeline has been marked by cataclysmic events such as the Calamity. The red moon Ruidus, Exandria's second moon, hangs over the world. The interplay between light and shadow defines the moral landscape of the world, where heroes must navigate complex political intrigue while battling forces that seek to unravel reality itself.
Reader's Guide
Exandria is more than a backdrop; it is a living, breathing entity that drives the narrative forward in Critical Role. Its vast geography provides endless opportunities for exploration, from the bustling cities of Emon to the remote wilderness of the Wildemount. The world's role in the story is pivotal, as its history and current state directly influence the motivations and actions of the characters. The conflicts between nations, the presence of gods, and the looming threat of Ruidus create a dynamic environment where every decision has weight. Exandria matters because it represents the ultimate playground for imagination and storytelling. It allows players to engage with complex themes of power, redemption, and sacrifice within a richly detailed setting that feels both familiar and utterly unique.
Did You Know?
- The world of Exandria is home to multiple planes of existence accessible through magical portals or divine intervention.
- Many regions of Exandria were destroyed or altered by the actions of gods and powerful mortals throughout its history.
- The Apogee Solstice, a celestial event, influences the ley lines of Exandria and magnifies magical abilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does magic function in this world?
Magic is a tangible force woven into reality, often driven by the actions of gods and celestial events. Ancient artifacts also channel this power to shape the lives of inhabitants across the continents.
Who are the key threats facing Exandria?
Threats faced across the campaigns include the lich Vecna, the imprisoned Tharizdûn and Predathos, known as the God Eater. These forces often challenge mortals who seek to forge their own legends amidst chaos.
Which adventuring parties explore this setting?
Three distinct groups have shaped its recent history: Vox Machina, the Mighty Nein, and Bells Hells. Their actions ripple through the timeline, affecting political factions and magical phenomena alike.
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