System Spotlight – A Look Into the Kniraven TTRPG's Core Mechanics

The Kniraven TTRPG is a fantasy system born not in a boardroom, but in a backyard—conceived by Nickolas D. Patino in the 8th grade while playing with neighborhood friends. Since then, it has grown through dozens of iterations into something far more refined, personal, and ambitious.

What Makes It Different

• Two d12s: Every major roll uses two twelve-sided dice—Radiant Aether and Rot—representing light and dark, order and chaos. This dual-axis system adds complexity and flavor to every encounter.
• Twelve Ability Scores: Unlike traditional systems with six core stats, Kniraven features twelve distinct ability scores to allow deeper character differentiation and to better reflect mental, physical, and spiritual nuance.
• Reactions: Players stay involved even outside their turns, with mechanics that allow for active participation during combat and dialogue.
• Armor as Damage Mitigation: Armor reduces incoming damage instead of influencing attack rolls, making tanking and positioning feel more tactical and deliberate.
• Progression Unshackled: The experience system is designed so that rewards aren’t based on DM favoritism or performative roleplay. Character growth is fair, clear, and non-negotiable.

Inspirations

The system draws inspiration from Phantasy Star Online spells like Megid and Grants, as well as from ancient mythos and esoteric systems. It embraces mature themes, dark romanticism, strategic planning, and grey morality.

Instead of spoon-feeding players a binary good-vs-evil narrative, the Kniraven TTRPG forces players to grapple with the consequences of their decisions and engage with complex social, magical, and moral frameworks.

Future Licensing and Release Plans

Nickolas plans to release a free version of the core rule system under an open or hybrid license—something in the spirit of 3.5e or early 5e. This approach ensures accessibility while still protecting the unique identity and IP structure of the Kniraven universe.

More in-depth mechanics are planned for public sharing in Q3 2025 as development resumes in full force.