Dungeons & Dragons vs. RIFTS

Attribute	Dungeons & Dragons	RIFTS
Setting	Fantasy	Science Fiction/Fantasy
Gameplay	Class-based	Skills-based
Character Creation	Races and Classes	Occupations and Skills
Magic System	Spellcasting	Psionics and Magic
Combat	Turn-based	Real-time

Setting

Dungeons & Dragons is a high fantasy role-playing game that takes place in a world filled with magic, mythical creatures, and epic quests. Players can choose from a variety of races and classes, such as elves, dwarves, wizards, and fighters, as they embark on adventures in dungeons, forests, and other fantastical settings. RIFTS, on the other hand, is a science fiction and fantasy hybrid game that is set in a post-apocalyptic world where rifts in space and time have opened up, allowing for the convergence of different dimensions and realities. Players can explore a wide range of environments, from futuristic cities to magical realms.

Character Creation

In Dungeons & Dragons, players create characters by choosing a race, class, and background, as well as rolling dice to determine their abilities and skills. They can customize their characters further by selecting feats, spells, and equipment that suit their playstyle. RIFTS, on the other hand, offers a more complex character creation system that allows players to choose from a wide range of races, classes, and skills, as well as customize their characters with cybernetic enhancements, psionic powers, and magic spells. Players can create truly unique characters with a diverse set of abilities and attributes.

Game Mechanics

Dungeons & Dragons uses a d20 system, where players roll a 20-sided die to determine the outcome of actions such as attacks, skill checks, and saving throws. The game also incorporates modifiers based on a character's abilities and skills, as well as bonuses from equipment and spells. RIFTS, on the other hand, uses a more complex system that involves rolling multiple dice of different sizes to determine the success or failure of actions. Players must also keep track of various modifiers, bonuses, and penalties that can affect their rolls, making the game more strategic and challenging.

Combat

In Dungeons & Dragons, combat is turn-based and relies on a grid system to determine movement and positioning. Players take turns to attack, cast spells, and use abilities in order to defeat their enemies. The game emphasizes teamwork and strategy, as players must work together to overcome powerful foes. RIFTS, on the other hand, features a more dynamic combat system that allows for simultaneous actions and reactions. Players can engage in fast-paced battles that involve a mix of ranged and melee attacks, as well as special abilities and tactics that can turn the tide of battle in an instant.

Magic and Powers

Dungeons & Dragons features a wide range of spells and magical abilities that players can use to heal allies, damage enemies, and manipulate the environment. Magic users such as wizards and sorcerers can learn new spells as they level up, expanding their repertoire of powers. RIFTS, on the other hand, offers a diverse array of psionic powers, cybernetic enhancements, and magic spells that players can use to enhance their abilities and overcome challenges. Players can choose from a variety of power sources, each with its own strengths and weaknesses, to create characters with unique powers and abilities.

Worldbuilding

In Dungeons & Dragons, the game master (GM) is responsible for creating and narrating the world in which the players' adventures take place. The GM can use pre-written campaign settings or create their own custom world, complete with maps, NPCs, and quests. Players can explore the rich lore and history of the game world, uncovering hidden secrets and unraveling epic storylines. RIFTS, on the other hand, offers a detailed and expansive world that is filled with diverse cultures, factions, and threats. The game provides a wealth of information on different dimensions, alien races, and supernatural phenomena, allowing players to immerse themselves in a complex and dynamic setting.

Conclusion

While Dungeons & Dragons and RIFTS are both popular tabletop role-playing games that offer immersive and engaging experiences, they each have their own unique attributes that set them apart. Dungeons & Dragons is known for its high fantasy setting, customizable characters, and strategic combat, while RIFTS offers a blend of science fiction and fantasy, complex character creation, and dynamic gameplay. Whether you prefer exploring dungeons and battling dragons or navigating post-apocalyptic landscapes and facing otherworldly threats, both games provide endless opportunities for adventure and storytelling.