Created by Wizards of the Coast using the 5e system and based on the in-development video game.
Surprise! Wizards of the Coast (WOTC) have launched a brand new TTRPG, and it has absolutely nothing to do with D&D or fantasy. It is in fact, a sci-fi RPG set in the Exodus universe.
Exodus is an in development video game set in a sci-fi universe. It’s being developed by Archetype Entertainment who are one of the video game studios of Wizards of the Coast. The Exodus TTRPG ties into the video game universe allowing players to experience their own stories before playing the video game.
What do we know about the Exodus TTRPG
Not a huge amount just yet, though it was released on the 19th August 2025, this was a surprise to basically everyone, so we haven’t got our hands on it just yet.
It does have some pretty impressive credentials though! It’s been written by James Ohlen of Baldur’s Gate 1 and 2 fame as well as Dragon Age Origins and Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic. He’s also the co-founder of Archetype Entertainment. He’s written the TTRPG alongside legendary sci fi authors Adrian Tchaikovsky and Peter F. Hamilton.
We also know it’s based on D&D’s 5e 2024 system with a few updates to match the setting. So expect d20s aplenty. And to be honest, this is a pretty good thing. I really like the 5e 2024 rules and learning less rules definitely simplifies things!
There are 2 books as part of the launch. The Traveler’s Handbook contains all the necessary rules and character options to get people playing the game so is the book for players and GMs. Then there’s the encyclopedia which includes all the details on the setting and enemies you might face. This seems to be primarily for GMs.
What do we know about the Exodus setting?
It’s based around humans exploring the vast reaches of space where they can encounter all sorts of creatures. These include highly evolved versions of humans, known as celestials, bioengineered entities known as changelings, awakened animals, alien fauna, ghosts, androids and war machines.
The universe is replete with derelict spaceships, ancient ruins, precursor technology and alien worlds to encounter and discover.
What’s included in the books?
In the 2 books, you can expect the following:
Exodus Traveler’s Handbook
- 8 origins (backgrounds)
- 4 classes
- 8 subclasses
- Dozens of weapons and equipment
- 6 dynasties
- 304 pages
- English only
- 19th August 2025 release date
Exodus Enclyclopedia
- 60 stat blocks
- Setting guide
- Detailed information about the species of Exodus
- 25+ items
- 296 pages
- English only
- 19th August 2025 release date
According to Wargamer, who broke the news and have their hands on a review copy of the Exodus TRPG, it changes very little from the D&D ruleset, and even includes staple features like extra attacks and weapon masteries. It does bring some things in line with the setting, with unique classes, subclasses, equipment and other character options as well as NPCs. It does also cap level progression at level 10, but with more rapid level progression. But largely, these are rules that will feel very familiar to D&D veterans.
They seemed to feel that this felt lazy and uninspiring, however, I’m tempted to suggest that this isn’t necessarily a problem. It makes the system much easier to jump into and 5e is a very competent system. It’s also exactly what Paizo has done with Pathfinder and Starfinder. But I’ve not read the rules so I’m inclined to hold full judgement until I’ve actually read them.
The Exodus TRPG is available to buy now from the Exodus TRPG store.