Languages
In a world cloaked in darkness, languages are more than just tools for communication; they're lifelines, weapons, and beacons in the sea of the unknown. Whether it's a native tongue spoken in remote corners of the world or a cryptic language of supernatural entities, command over languages can give Hunters a significant edge in their pursuit of the unknown.
Languages in Obscured are classified into two broad categories: "conventional" and "unconventional."
Conventional Languages
Conventional languages are the numerous human languages spoken around the globe, from widespread ones like English, Spanish, and Mandarin to the lesser-known tongues of remote tribes. Players can choose up to two conventional languages for their Hunter to be proficient in. It's crucial for group members to share at least one conventional language to ensure smooth communication during their quests.
Unconventional Languages
Unconventional languages belong to the supernatural world, used by Horrors, cults, and mysterious civilizations hidden from mundane reality. Some archetypes grant Hunters knowledge of one or more of these unique tongues, which can be crucial for deciphering ancient texts, negotiating with otherworldly beings, or uncovering hidden secrets.
Examples of Unconventional Languages
| Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Atlantian | A variant of Latin spoken in the lost city of Atlantis |
| Basal | A slithering tongue used by creatures living beneath the earth's crust |
| Chitter | An insectoid language expressed in sharp clicks and buzzing sounds |
| Dearth | The cryptic language of demons, full of riddles and omissions |
| Etherean | The ethereal language of the dead, capable of piercing the veil between life and the afterlife |
| Foot | A complex mix of postures and vocalizations used by cryptids known as the Foot |
| Grey | An abstract language used by the Grey aliens, based on thoughts rather than sounds |
| Harmonic | A language of tones and vibrations used by the mechanical beings called the Opus |
| Mythic Tongue | The booming language of the ancient giants |
| The Strange | An otherworldly language used by interdimensional anomalies |
| Voice of the Void | The maddening language of entities that dwell in the oceanic depths of the earth |
Learning New Languages
As their adventures progress, Overseers may allow Hunters to learn additional languages, provided they have access to learning resources or a tutor. The time and effort required to master a new language depends on its complexity and the quality of learning resources.
Overseers, remember, words hold power in Obscured. The right language can turn a sworn enemy into a begrudging ally or a cryptic warning into a beacon of hope. The choice of a Hunter's language can fundamentally alter a player's experience.
Overseer: "As you enter the ancient crypt, a demonic figure rises from the shadows. It growls something in a language that sends chills down your spine."
David: "Wait, didn't we say my Occult Explorer, Theodore, knew Dearth? The demon language?"
Overseer: "Indeed, you did. Theodore recognizes the demon's growl as a warning, not an immediate threat. Do you want to try to communicate?"
David: "Absolutely! Let's see if we can negotiate our way out of this."
Overseer: "Alright, roll a Charm check for negotiation. With advantage... a success means the demon stands down for now, a critical success convinces it to help you!"
David: "Great, here goes... Let's hope this demon is open to a friendly chat!"