CAPHARNAUM Core Book: What the Dragon-Marked RPG Offers
By Modiphius US | Published: 2026-10-20
Category: Buying Guides
Discover what the CAPHARNAUM core book brings to your tabletop: a desert fantasy setting with ancient gods, djinn, and the Dragon-Marked system. This guide helps you decide if it fits your group.
Quick answer
The CAPHARNAUM core book delivers a complete fantasy RPG experience centered on a desert world of ancient gods, djinn, and the Dragon-Marked system—ideal for players seeking a narrative-driven setting with Middle Eastern-inspired lore.
What the core book includes
The CAPHARNAUM core book is a self-contained RPG rulebook. It provides everything needed to create characters, run adventures, and explore the world of Capharnaum. The setting is a vast desert where ancient gods and enmities shape the land, and where djinn—especially the marid—play a central role. The book includes rules for creating characters marked by dragons, along with guidelines for the Game Master to craft quests involving desert caravans, dusty souks, and mysterious ruins.
If you are new to the Dragon-Marked system, the core book serves as a complete starting point. It does not require any other supplements to play, though additional scenario books or setting expansions may add depth later.
What the core book does not cover
The core book focuses on the rules and the primary setting. It does not include pre-written adventures or detailed maps of every region. For groups that prefer ready-to-run scenarios, you may need to look for separate scenario packs or create your own. The book also assumes a certain familiarity with roleplaying games; while the rules are explained, new GMs might want to read through the GM section carefully before the first session.
How it compares to other Modiphius RPGs
Modiphius has a strong line of licensed RPGs—Blade Runner, Dune, John Carter of Mars—each with its own mechanical focus. CAPHARNAUM stands apart as an original setting not tied to an existing franchise. Its rules are built for a narrative style that emphasizes personal quests, ancient mysteries, and the tension between gods and mortals. If you enjoy the narrative depth of Vaesen or the desert adventure of John Carter, CAPHARNAUM offers a distinct flavor that blends both.
Decision rules
- You want a complete game in one book: The core book includes all rules for character creation, GM guidance, and setting lore. You can start playing immediately with just this book.
- You prefer a setting with Middle Eastern-inspired fantasy: The world of Capharnaum draws from desert landscapes, ancient mythologies, and djinn lore. If that appeals, the core book delivers a cohesive experience.
- You need pre-written adventures: The core book does not include scenarios. If you lack time to create your own, consider purchasing separate scenario supplements or creating your own. Check for available scenario packs or prepare to write your own quests.
- You are a new Game Master: The rules are explained, but the book assumes some RPG familiarity. New GMs should read the GM section thoroughly before the first session. Consider watching a few actual-play videos or reading a quickstart guide online.
Product facts
- CAPHARNAUM - THE TALES OF THE DRAGON-MARKED RPG CORE BOOK: The core book presents a world of ancient gods and enmities, mysterious quests, desert caravans, and dusty souks, with a focus on a marid djinn risen in rebellion against Marduk the Dragon. This setting provides a rich, self-contained backdrop for campaigns centered on desert exploration, divine conflict, and personal vengeance, without needing additional supplements to start.
CAPHARNAUM - THE TALES OF THE DRAGON-MARKED RPG CORE BOOK
Who is this for?
Best for
- Players who enjoy narrative-driven fantasy with a strong cultural setting
- GMs who like creating their own adventures and want a rich sandbox to explore
Not for
- Groups that want a generic fantasy setting or prefer high-magic European-style worlds
- Players who need a complete campaign with pre-written scenarios right out of the box
