The Oracle of Yuggoth

Set in 2263 or thereabouts, The Oracle of Yuggoth is a space horror scenario for Call of Cthulhu. At 20 pages, with 5 pre-generated characters and a map, it’s suitable as a one-shot, leaning into disturbing psychological themes and the unrelenting nihilism that characterises cosmic horror.

The players find themselves on a mission to Yuggoth, also known as Pluto, in order to explore a group of pyramid-shaped formations emitting some odd electromagnetic radiation. Considerable space is given to describing the PC’s backstories, communicating information used later in the scenario.

It seems that the oracle of Yuggoth is the pyramid cluster itself. Leaving the relative safety of their spaceship and taking a shuttle to the planet, the investigators encounter a group of polished onyx pyramids emitting a striking purple glow. It doesn’t take long for things to get creepy, and they only get creepier.

The core of the scenario is the exploration of a labyrinth at the centre of the main pyramid and two things quickly become clear: first, the whole place is dedicated to Shub-Niggurath and, second, that the investigators are not welcome.

What follows is a series of encounters and experiences that make full use of the detailed investigator backgrounds outlined at the onset of the scenario. They intentionally include some disturbing material so keeper discretion is advised (let’s call it M-rated, as opposed to the usual PG-13).

It’s pretty clear that this type of thing best suits groups who like psychological horror and roleplay, as some of it involves interpersonal conflict with other PCs or people from their past. As these experiences accumulate, investigators are likely to rack up some impressive SAN losses. This is by design: the oracle does not want them there and Shub-Niggurath has decided to make an example of the investigators in order to discourage further visits from humanity.

Here’s where the relentless nihilism kicks in. The investigators are all likely to experience indefinite or permanent insanity during their stay on Yuggoth. Keepers are encouraged to allow players to control their characters if they reach zero sanity points, and it’s good advice.

The encounters in the labyrinth (there are nine of them) are mostly negative, but varied enough to be interesting. It’s basically a haunted house scenario: the only way out is through and going through is tough. It lends itself to a claustrophobic atmosphere that suits cosmic horror very well. The horror genre, after all, is largely about the loss of control.

“We live on a placid island of ignorance in the midst of black seas of infinity, and it was not meant that we should voyage far.”

H.P. Lovecraft

The labyrinth itself has a clear(ish) exit and returning to the spaceship happens easily. The scenario ends with the investigators permanently changed and aware of the oracle’s revelation; something along these lines:

While not explicitly stated, The Oracle of Yuggoth seems optimised for a one-shot, while also allowing it to be used in a broader space horror campaign. The art, in particular, is excellent, and if you’re into psychological space horror, it’s well worth a look.

The Oracle of Yuggoth also details three new occupations as well as several weapons and items. They do feature in the scenario but also seem to form part of a broader setting.

The Oracle of Yuggoth is available at Drivethrurpg.com