Achtung! Cthulhu 2d20: Operation Oberon Review

Triad Trouble in the “Paris of the East”

Achtung! Cthulhu 2d20: Operation Oberon takes players to the bustling streets of Shanghai in January 1943. With Imperial Japanese forces controlling the city and the sinister Black Sun faction seeking occult treasures, this 26-page adventure captures an enticing blend of espionage, mythos horror, and political intrigue.

Introduction to the Mission

Players assume the roles of agents of Section M, tasked with investigating Operation Oberon—a covert smuggling scheme through which the Germans are systematically plundering occult treasures from across Southeast Asia. The mission starts in Shanghai’s infamous Wagnerian nightclub, located in the notorious Badlands. Agents must infiltrate and uncover connections between the Black Sun and the Feilong Triad, who control the nightclub. The mission is not a simple smash-and-grab—espionage, deception, and negotiation are key tools at the players’ disposal.

Atmosphere and Setting

From the elegant, smoky atmosphere of the Wagnerian to underground locations dedicated to dark secrets, Operation Oberon offers a series of intriguing settings and scenarios. Players will find themselves immersed in the midst of Shanghai’s high society, rubbing shoulders with powerful criminals, Japanese officers, and Nazi agents. The historical accuracy combined with mythos horror elements adds depth to the setting, making it immersive and unpredictable.

The Badlands of Shanghai, known for its lawlessness and chaotic mix of crime and political intrigue, provides a rich backdrop for the mission. The tension builds as the agents navigate a complex web of hidden alliances and dangerous foes. The vivid detail of locations like the Wagnerian gives Game Masters plenty to work with, allowing players to explore Shanghai’s elite and its criminal underworld.

The scenario features excellent maps, immersive descriptions of historical locations, and enough occult elements to keep players on edge. Shanghai is brought to life through detailed environments, from the opulent Wagnerian nightclub to the gritty alleys of the Badlands. The maps are a valuable resource, allowing players to visualize the complex urban environment they must navigate.

The historical context of Shanghai under Japanese occupation is interwoven with the story, providing a sense of authenticity and urgency. The tension between occupying forces, local triads, and international spies adds layers of intrigue to the narrative. The occult elements, from dark rituals to monstrous entities, are well-integrated, ensuring the mythos presence is always felt without overshadowing the espionage aspects of the story.

The Story

Operation Oberon takes players on a thrilling journey through Shanghai as they gather crucial intelligence, evade enemies, and face a climactic confrontation. The adventure begins with agents infiltrating the Wagnerian nightclub, a hub for Shanghai’s criminal elite and a front for Black Sun’s activities. Players need to blend in at a high-profile party where they have the opportunity to gather information, make allies, or hinder enemy plans. Espionage, careful observation, and clever use of social skills are emphasized, with players needing to balance subtlety with the ever-present threat of exposure.

The adventure then shifts gears into a thrilling chase through Shanghai’s maze-like streets. After uncovering leads, the agents must act quickly to intercept smuggled goods and disrupt the Oberon operation. Players face various challenges, including turf conflicts and unexpected roadblocks, as they navigate chaotic streets and evade the forces intent on stopping them. The chase scenes are dynamic, with multiple obstacles and surprises that keep players on their toes. The blend of close calls, evasive maneuvers, and improvised tactics gives players a sense of urgency and danger, with the environment of Shanghai coming alive through detailed encounters.

The final part of the adventure features a tense confrontation at a secret location where agents must put everything they’ve learned to the test. Whether players prefer sneaking, sabotaging, or taking direct action, the climax offers intense challenges as they work to disrupt the enemy’s plans. The presence of formidable foes and supernatural threats adds a layer of danger, ensuring the climax is both challenging and cinematic. Agents must rely on their skills, allies, and quick thinking to succeed in their mission, making the ending both satisfying and thrilling.

For Game Masters

The adventure skillfully balances espionage, action, and the mythos horror that Achtung! Cthulhu is known for. The players’ choices are crucial, and there is enough flexibility for Game Masters to adapt the story based on how events unfold. While there is a strong emphasis on deception and subterfuge, combat is inevitable—especially when dealing with fanatical cultists, Black Sun operatives, and otherworldly horrors.

Game Masters are provided with detailed descriptions of each location, character motivations, and potential player actions, making it easy to adapt to unexpected player choices. The flexibility of the adventure allows GMs to either dial up the tension with additional enemies or provide alternate routes for players who prefer stealth and negotiation over direct confrontation. The inclusion of optional encounters, such as faction conflicts or dangerous rituals, gives GMs the ability to tailor the pacing and intensity of the session.

Conclusion

Achtung! Cthulhu 2d20: Operation Oberon is a great addition for groups that enjoy stories filled with espionage, complicated factions, and mythos-inspired terror. The combination of historical setting, mythos horror, and player-driven choices makes for a gripping and memorable adventure.