The region's fate was sealed by the Orc-leader Adar, who used a mysterious sword-key to trigger the eruption of the volcano Orodruin (Mount Doom). This transformed the verdant plains into a darkened wasteland, eventually renamed Mordor —the land where shadows lie.
In the tabletop RPG world (notably for 5E and Pathfinder ), the Southlands Campaign Setting by Kobold Press offers a vastly different vision. For the Southlands
Unlike standard settings, it features playable races like Ravenfolk (associated with the god Horus) and Minotaurs , alongside living gods who physically manifest to meddle in mortal affairs. Other Notable References The region's fate was sealed by the Orc-leader
The human inhabitants were "Low Men" whose ancestors had sided with the dark lord Morgoth during the First Age. Because of this "blood oath," they were watched over for centuries by Silvan Elves, creating deep-seated resentment. Unlike standard settings, it features playable races like
The setting is a thematic blend of Ancient Egypt , Arabian Nights , and sub-Saharan African kingdoms, prioritizing a "pulpy adventure" feel over traditional medieval tropes.
"For the Southlands" is a evocative concept spanning several iconic fantasy worlds, most notably serving as the tragic origin of in The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power and a vibrant "Fantasy Africa" campaign setting for tabletop RPGs. Middle-earth: The Pre-Mordor Southlands
The storyline centers on the search for a "Rightful King" of the Southlands, a mantle eventually claimed by Halbrand, who is later revealed to be Sauron in disguise. Tabletop Gaming: The Southlands Campaign Setting