Nation Builder (Troll Lord Games, 2006, ISBN: 1931275807) combines elements of classic and contemporary roleplaying game manuals into a solid resource that will be valued by anyone planning campaigns or scenarios involving political entities. Indeed, there is such a wealth of information and material in this book, applicable to so many situations, that it is likely to be useful to almost any game milieu creator.

"In a basic or even rudimentary sort of campaign, where dungeon-stomping and monster-hacking are the be-all and end-all of action and role-playing, the existence of nations and their various characteristics are little more than a backdrop for the milieu," from the Introduction to Nation Builder, establishes the theme of this valuable book. "If that backdrop can be given greater detail, however, more intense colors, and even three dimensions, the depth and breadth of the roleplaying experience can be expanded upon commensurately. Game Masters have it within their ability to increase the enjoyment of the games in this way and to create nations that are tangible, believable, and enjoyable."

Nation Builder is designed to be a general, system-neutral gaming resource, but also contains solid appendices of rules and statistics specific to the d20 and Lejendary Adventures rules systems. Indeed, the wealth of new material for these game systems makes this book a good value for someone who subscribes to either of them. Material specific to the d20 system, for example, include five prestige classes especially suitable for nation building campaigns, including the Diplomat, High Priest, and Mercenary Commander. If you are looking for an excellent, inspirational gaming resource, this is it. Nation Builder is useful and enjoyable and sure to be an asset that you can return to again and again.

Nation Builder is available from better game stores and through Amazon.com. To address questions directly to author Michael J. Varhola, email varhola@skirmisher.com or respond to this posting.