Ghosts of Saltmarsh is a Dungeons & Dragons supplement updating classic nautical adventures for 5e. It includes The Sinister Secret of Saltmarsh and introduces the town of Saltmarsh, perfect for a nautical campaign spanning levels 1–12.
Overview of the Module
Ghosts of Saltmarsh is a Dungeons & Dragons supplement that breathes new life into classic nautical adventures, adapting them for 5th Edition rules. The module is designed to take players on a journey through seven interconnected sea-based adventures, spanning levels 1 to 12. It includes updated versions of iconic scenarios like The Sinister Secret of Saltmarsh and its sequels, ensuring compatibility with modern gameplay mechanics. The campaign is set in the port town of Saltmarsh, a coastal settlement filled with mystery and intrigue, serving as the perfect hub for aquatic exploits. Players will encounter a variety of threats, from sahuagin and lizardfolk to undead horrors, as they navigate the dangers of the sea and uncover the secrets of the Saltmarsh region. The module also introduces new rules for ship-to-ship combat, underwater exploration, and nautical adventures, making it a must-have for fans of oceanic campaigns.
Significance of the Saltmarsh Setting
The port town of Saltmarsh serves as the cornerstone of the Ghosts of Saltmarsh campaign, offering a unique blend of nautical adventure, mystery, and intrigue. Its coastal location makes it an ideal starting point for a seafaring campaign, allowing players to explore the open waters, underwater ruins, and nearby islands. The setting is rich in lore, with a history of smuggling, pirate activity, and supernatural occurrences, such as the eerie ghost fog that haunts the region. Saltmarsh’s significance lies in its versatility, providing a hub for adventures that cater to a wide range of playstyles, from combat and exploration to roleplay and puzzle-solving. The town’s faction dynamics and the looming threats of sahuagin, lizardfolk, and undead create a tense atmosphere, drawing players into a world of high-stakes adventure. By grounding the campaign in a single, detailed location, Saltmarsh offers a cohesive narrative that enhances immersion and storytelling.
Content of Ghosts of Saltmarsh
Ghosts of Saltmarsh features updated modules from classic adventures, including The Sinister Secret of Saltmarsh, alongside new content. It offers key locations, factions, and rules for nautical campaigns, enhancing underwater and seafaring experiences.
Updated Modules and Adventures
Ghosts of Saltmarsh is an anthology of seven updated modules and adventures, including the classic The Sinister Secret of Saltmarsh and its sequels. These adventures, originally from earlier editions, have been reworked for Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition, ensuring compatibility with modern rules and gameplay. The content is structured to allow characters to progress from level 1 to 12, with each adventure building on the previous one or standing alone for flexibility. The updated modules introduce new elements such as nautical combat rules, aquatic monsters, and maritime-themed magic items. Players and DMs alike will find refreshed encounters, expanded lore, and enhanced mechanics to enrich their nautical campaigns. The adventures are linked by their connection to the sea and the port town of Saltmarsh, offering a cohesive narrative thread. This collection provides a mix of exploration, combat, and roleplay opportunities, making it a versatile resource for any coastal or ocean-based campaign.
Key Locations in Saltmarsh
Saltmarsh is a charming yet enigmatic port town that serves as the centerpiece for the campaign. Nestled on the coast of the Kingdom of Keoland, it offers a mix of maritime culture, mysterious lore, and adventure opportunities. The town is divided into distinct districts, each with its own character, from the bustling docks to the quieter residential areas. Nearby, the Saltmarsh Harbor is a hub of activity, with ships coming and going, bringing rumors, trade, and danger. The surrounding region includes the Creeping Bog, a treacherous and eerie wetland, and the Isle of the Abbey, home to ancient ruins and hidden treasures. Key locations like the Haunted House and the Sea Ghost shipwreck provide settings for spine-chilling encounters. These areas are rich in history and secrets, offering players ample opportunities for exploration, combat, and roleplay. Each location is intricately designed to immerse players in the nautical-themed world of Ghosts of Saltmarsh.
Characters and Factions
The world of Ghosts of Saltmarsh is populated by a diverse array of characters and factions, each with their own agendas and secrets. The town of Saltmarsh itself is home to a mix of locals, from fishermen and townsfolk to mysterious figures with hidden motives. Key factions include the Sahuagin, Lizardfolk, and the enigmatic forces of Thay, who seek to expand their influence in the region. Players will encounter powerful NPCs like the enigmatic Sea Hag and the elusive Harbormaster, who may offer quests or pose challenges. The undead, including ghosts and specters, play a significant role, haunting the waters and islands around Saltmarsh. These characters and factions create a rich tapestry of alliances, rivalries, and mysteries, immersing players in the nautical-themed adventure. The interactions between these elements drive the story and provide endless opportunities for roleplay and conflict, making the world feel alive and dynamic.
New Rules and Mechanics
Ghosts of Saltmarsh introduces a variety of new rules and mechanics tailored to nautical adventures. Players and Dungeon Masters alike will find fresh options for maritime exploration, including detailed ship-to-ship combat rules and mechanics for navigating the dangers of the sea. The supplement also includes new character backgrounds and class options, such as the Sailor background, which reflects the nautical theme. Additionally, there are revised rules for grappling, swimming, and underwater combat, making aquatic adventures more dynamic and immersive. The module also expands on magic items and spells related to water and the sea, offering players new tools to master the tides. These mechanics are seamlessly integrated into the 5th Edition ruleset, enhancing the gameplay experience without overwhelming players or DMs. The result is a comprehensive system that brings the thrill of high-seas adventures to life in a balanced and engaging way.
Resources for Dungeon Masters
Ghosts of Saltmarsh provides DMs with official PDF releases, including maps and rule expansions. Community-created content, such as custom adventures and guides, enriches the nautical theme, offering fresh ideas for maritime campaigns.
Official PDF Releases and Maps
Official PDF releases of Ghosts of Saltmarsh are available for download, providing a comprehensive guide to the nautical adventures and updated rules for 5th edition. These documents include detailed maps of the port town of Saltmarsh, ship layouts, and key locations tied to the adventures. The official PDFs are designed to enhance gameplay, offering clear visuals for both players and Dungeon Masters; They also contain encounters, NPCs, and treasure descriptions, making it easier for DMs to prepare and run the campaign. Additional resources, such as nautical-themed rules and monster stats, are included to immerse players in the maritime setting. The maps are particularly useful for navigating the coastal regions and underwater environments featured in the module. Official releases ensure compatibility with the 5th edition ruleset, providing a seamless experience for DMs and players alike. These resources are essential for bringing the world of Saltmarsh to life in your D&D campaign;
Community-Created Content
The Ghosts of Saltmarsh community has created a wealth of additional resources, including fan-translated PDFs, homebrew adventures, and custom maps. These creations expand the module’s possibilities, offering new storylines, NPCs, and rules for nautical gameplay. Players and DMs can find translated versions of the module in multiple languages, such as Spanish and Russian, thanks to dedicated fan efforts. Community members have also developed supplementary content, including alternative character backgrounds, ship-to-ship combat rules, and detailed encounter maps. Some creators have even crafted entire campaigns set in Saltmarsh, blending original ideas with the module’s core themes. These resources, often shared on platforms like Reddit and D&D Beyond, provide fresh perspectives and tools for enhancing the adventure. The community’s contributions highlight the module’s versatility and the passion of its fanbase, offering endless opportunities to tailor the campaign to unique playstyles and preferences.
Running the Campaign
Ghosts of Saltmarsh offers a nautical-themed adventure spanning levels 1–12, blending exploration, combat, and roleplay; DMs can balance structured quests with open-ended maritime exploration, creating a dynamic and immersive experience for players.
Preparing for the Adventure
Preparation for Ghosts of Saltmarsh involves understanding its nautical theme and modular design. DMs should familiarize themselves with the town of Saltmarsh, its factions, and the seven interconnected adventures. Reviewing the updated rules for sea travel, ship combat, and underwater exploration is crucial. Creating a cohesive story arc that ties the adventures together ensures a smooth player experience. DMs should also prepare key NPCs, such as the enigmatic figures in Saltmarsh and the leaders of opposing factions. Maps and handouts from the PDF can enhance immersion, while customizing encounters to fit party strength ensures balance. Encouraging players to create backgrounds tied to the sea or Saltmarsh adds depth. Finally, DMs should be flexible, as the module’s open-ended nature allows for player-driven exploration and creative problem-solving. Proper preparation ensures a memorable and engaging campaign for all involved.
Engaging Players in the Story
Engaging players in Ghosts of Saltmarsh begins with immersing them in the nautical theme and mysterious setting of Saltmarsh. Encourage players to create characters with ties to the sea or the town, using backgrounds from the PDF to deepen their connection. The module’s focus on exploration and intrigue allows players to drive the story through choices and interactions with key factions. DMs can highlight the eerie atmosphere of ghost fog and the haunting tales of Saltmarsh’s past to pique curiosity. Players are naturally drawn into the conflict when they uncover threats like the sahuagin, lizardfolk, or undead, which tie into the larger narrative. By balancing combat, roleplay, and exploration, DMs ensure players remain invested in unraveling the mysteries of the coast. The PDF’s detailed setting and NPCs provide rich material for crafting memorable encounters, making the adventure a compelling journey for both new and experienced players.
Ghosts of Saltmarsh stands as a captivating supplement for Dungeons & Dragons, offering a mix of nautical adventures and mystery. Its updated modules, including The Sinister Secret of Saltmarsh, provide a seamless experience for players from level 1 to 12. The PDF’s detailed setting of Saltmarsh, along with its rich lore and diverse factions, makes it an ideal starting point for coastal campaigns. The inclusion of ghost fog, aquatic monsters, and maritime rules enhances the immersive feel of the game. Whether players are battling sahuagin or unraveling ancient mysteries, the module promises engaging storytelling and dynamic gameplay. For DMs, the supplement offers versatile tools to craft unforgettable experiences. With its blend of classic adventures and fresh content, Ghosts of Saltmarsh is a must-have for fans of nautical-themed campaigns, ensuring hours of thrilling exploration and combat. Both new and seasoned players will find this module a rewarding journey into the unknown.