Trail of Cthulhu 2nd Edition Brings Updated Investigation and Horror Mechanics to Backerkit

Pelgrane Press has launched the second edition of Trail of Cthulhu, a roleplaying game set in the 1930s, where players investigate mysteries tied to the cosmic horrors of the Cthulhu Mythos.

Built on the GUMSHOE system, the game emphasizes uncovering clues and piecing together information to confront terrifying truths. The second edition incorporates two decades of playtesting and design updates, making the rules easier to run and play while remaining compatible with the first edition.

Designed by Kenneth Hite and Gareth Ryder-Hanrahan, this edition includes updated mechanics for character creation, magic, and insanity, offering more options for investigators while streamlining gameplay.

The game provides support for both Purist and Pulp-style campaigns, allowing players to focus on either grim investigation or more action-driven narratives. The revised edition also adds new gods, monsters, and campaign frames, along with enhanced guidance for Game Masters.

Players can download the Quickstart guide to get a taste of the game, which includes pregenerated characters and a sample mystery. The full 400-page draft of the core rulebook is also available to backers.

Trail of Cthulhu 2nd Edition is currently live on Backerkit, having raised over £109,373 with 1,250 backers and 22 days remaining in the campaign. Pledge levels start at £1, with higher tiers offering physical editions, PDFs, and additional rewards.