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Happy Holidays from Palladium Books® – Weekly Update – December 24, 2024

Written by pb_addy on . Posted in Weekly Updates.

Weekly Update

ONE GAME SYSTEM – EVERY GENRE – COUNTLESS WORLDS – ENDLESS ADVENTURE

BY KEVIN SIEMBIEDA

Happy Holidays from Palladium Books® – Weekly Update – December 24, 2024

My Dear Friends – Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, wishing a blessed Kwanzaa, and a day of peace and joy whether you celebrate something different or nothing at all. The holidays are upon us. Enjoy the special day and hold in your heart all that it means every day into the New Year. This year the holidays happen to all be clustered together. Perhaps a reminder that we are all more similar and precious than we sometimes let ourselves believe. Well, believe it.


It has become a Palladium Books tradition to keep this Weekly Update short and focused on holiday joy. That means no new sales nor much business talk. It does mean an expanded Fan Comments section taken from the Christmas Surprise Package orders we receive, AND the extension of the Surprise Package deal into the New Year (more about that and why, below).


So without further ado, enjoy.

Valley of the Pharaohs 40th Anniversary

NEW! Valley of the Pharaohs RPG – 40th Anniversary Edition

Valley of the Pharaohs is back with 200 additional pages of material as a softcover and hardcover RPG. It is written by the original author Matthew Balent (Palladium Weapon series), and includes the original artwork and map by Kevin Siembieda, but this is NOT the Palladium game system. It’s an original game system designed by Matt.


The original Valley of the Pharaohs RPG is a rare, expensive collectible if you can even find it. But now you can get the super-expanded, 254 page, 40th Anniversary Edition softcover – or – the 274 page hardcover with bonus material, from Palladium Books. The new, 40th Anniversary Valley of Pharaohs is written and published by the original author, Matthew Balent (Weapons and Armor, Weapons & Castles, etc.). Like the original game, it uses its own, unique game rules – not the Palladium game system – but they, like the game world and text, are unique and fun.


This game is authorized by Kevin Siembieda and Palladium Books and includes many of Kevin’s original VotP RPG illustrations and maps.


If you are a Palladium Books collector or you love Egyptian mythology and historical fiction, this game is a must. It is likely as close as you’ll come to owning the original Valley of the Pharaohs. Besides, this is a vastly expanded and improved edition that includes all those original ideas and much of the artwork vastly expanded and improved. The original rule book was only 64 or 96 pages, plus maps; this is a 250+ page tome by the scholarly Matthew Balent and is an alternative reality, ancient Egypt that is epic and well written. It’s a fun read filled with ideas, magic, monsters, and characters you can, with a little work, convert to Palladium Fantasy, Rifts, or any RPG world.

  • Play humans or Bird People, Crocodilian People, Dog People, Snake People, and more!

  • Character Classes include: Priest, Thief, Military, Scholar, and more.

  • 300+ magic spells inspired by Egyptian myth and classic fantasy.

  • Many magic items, magic pictures and more.

  • Dozens of monsters and supernatural beings like the mummy, sphinx, sand slug, and others drawn from or inspired by Egyptian mythology.

  • Learn about Ka (magic), Maat (alignment and order), and Kismet.

  • Clear and concise Egyptian lore, its society, and history.

  • Game rules and writing by Matthew Balent.

  • A complete RPG with unique rules. Note: Does not use the Palladium game rules.

  • $40.00 retail – 254 page softcover – Cat. No. 2621 – complete RPG.

  • $60.00 retail – 274 page hardcover with bonus material – Cat. No. 2621HC – complete RPG.

Christmas Surprise Packages

Surprise Package Deal – Extended into the New Year

Is this a Christmas miracle? A mistake? Utter lunacy?


None of the above. (Well, maybe that last one.) It has become tradition that I extend the Christmas Surprise Package Offer through the end of December and into the New Year! Yes, this means you can still snag one or two if you act quickly. The sale now ends January 15, 2025, and will NOT be extended further. Oh, and you can ship via the less expensive method of Media Mail again because you do not need it for a holiday deadline.


A Surprise Package is a nice way to start the New Year and is a great gift for birthdays, anniversaries, graduation, and any gift-giving occasion. Or start the New Year with a stack of RPGs or sourcebooks you have been meaning to try or that you need to fill holes in your collection, or replace battered well-loved books.


We extend the Surprise Package offer for those of you who have been so busy spending your time and money on your family and friends, that you have not had the opportunity or funds to treat yourself to a well-deserved Christmas Surprise Package. We know this happens and don’t want you to miss out.


We also extend it for those of you who cannot get enough of Palladium’s games and want to start the New Year off with a setting or source material to launch a new campaign. It’s also for those of you who can use a Surprise Package as the perfect gift for a birthday, anniversary, or special occasion coming up in January or February (Valentine’s Day?), so take advantage of this sale to get gifts for the special gamer(s) in your life.


This year it helps our friends in Canada who thought they missed getting a Surprise Package due to the Canada Post strike during the holidays. There’s still time.


The extension is also for you Johnny Come-Latelies who were meaning to get one, but how time flies during the holidays. It’s also a way for those of you struggling through financial issues to carry some gaming fun into the New Year to stay busy and distracted through the winter months. So please, spread the word about the extended Surprise Package sale period, and travel the Megaverse® from the warmth and safety of your home.


What is a Christmas Surprise Package?


Besides being the best deal in gaming – $100+ worth of goodies (often more) for $60 (plus shipping) – it’s a smile and a hug that comes in a box filled with signed game books from available Palladium staff and freelancers at PDF prices. That can nab you four or more items when these days one core rule book can cost you that alone.


These Surprise Packages are our way of saying thank you for your support and showing you our love and appreciation. It’s a surprise because you never know exactly what you’re going to get or who will sign your books, because we pick from your Wish List and may surprise you with stuff you are not expecting. Extra items may include other RPGs, sourcebooks, issues of the Rifter®, novels, miniatures, prints, art books, greeting cards, T-shirts, negatives, and other items. Some books may be slightly damaged (scuffs, scratches, dings, a crunched corner, etc.) so we can send you more. But time is running out. We can only extend the holiday season for so long. Get one while you still can.

300+ RPG products on DriveThru – a dozen unique world settings – one game system – endless possibilities. No other game company offers game worlds for so many different genres. Best of all, learn to play one Palladium RPG and you can play them all, because each uses the same basic core rules and combat. There are differences, but the fundamentals are the same. This also means you can bring characters, villains, monsters, powers, magic, weapons, gear, and adventure ideas from one setting into another or mash them together!


In addition to PDF titles for entire game lines like Rifts®, Palladium Fantasy®, Heroes Unlimited™, Ninjas & Superspies™, After the Bomb®, Beyond the Supernatural™, Dead Reign® (zombies), Nightbane® (Urban Fantasy), Rifts Chaos Earth®, Systems Failure™, Splicers®, RECON®, The Rifter® #1-85, and others, there are Game Master and player aids, character generators, paper minis, map packs, and FREE Previews of books like Creature Feature™, Dead Reign, Coalition Manhunters, Titan Robotics™, Rifts Bestiary Volume One, World Books, Dimension Books, and more to give you a glimpse of what’s in the book. Enjoy endless adventures across the Megaverse®.

Palladium Collectibles – at Kevin’s Online Toy & Collectibles eBay Store

I am adding new collectibles of all kinds to my Ebay store in time for the holiday season. Some are Palladium negatives, rare and out of print books, original Palladium artwork, prints, posters, as well as other collectible toys, action figures, Nightmare Before Christmas items, one-of-a-kind proofreader copies, books, and other good stuff – including Erick Wujcik’s rare and sought after Amberzine #12-15. Check in every week or so to see what’s new. All items come from Kevin Siembieda’s personal collection.


One-of-a-kind Palladium Books negatives (special and rare collectibles). Negatives are always very popular items at the Palladium Open House, Gen Con, and conventions, and are catching on as rare collectibles, unique in and of themselves. Before digital printing, pages of a book were laid out by hand on a board, and each page was photographed.

  • Each negative is truly unique, attractive, and fun to have.

  • Own a piece of Palladium Books and RPG history you will treasure.

  • Each was used to print the very book you may have in your collection (1981-2004).

  • Each is signed in silver ink by Kevin Siembieda and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity.

  • Each negative is a one-of-a-kind work of art (on rare occasions, two-of-a-kind if a page or section of pages were replaced or a second edition was made).

  • Looks great matted or framed! Fits an 8×10 inch matt opening. Each neg is roughly 8 ½ x 11 inches.

  • Prices vary depending on the title, the art, and quality of the negative. Note: Many have scratches, or blemishes, and/or an opaque medium on the negative. Still, they look great and are a piece of RPG history. We recommend you carefully examine the photographs of each item to avoid disappointment. The negatives of many books are sold out or were never available.

Closing Thoughts

Thank you for being awesome


Fans often tell me how much my work and words mean to them. That they have brought them countless hours of role-playing enjoyment and inspiration, and in some cases, even changed their lives. I’m filled with joy whenever someone recounts how my games and my words have helped them through a difficult time, and/or provided escape, or hope and insight, or inspiration. To hear such things is beautiful and rewarding in ways I cannot even describe. It is also deeply humbling and warms my heart. The thought that our little games can bring such happiness and touch the lives of so many people in such a joyful and meaningful way — it astonishes us all. I feel blessed beyond belief. I think we all do. I know Sean does.


I want you to know that your openness, love, and support bolsters my own spirit on a nearly daily basis. It inspires me to push myself and create even more worlds of wonder to point your imaginations toward new heights. When times are tough (and there have been many difficult moments), you inspire me to press forward against all odds. Your kind words and support bolster my spirit and fuel my imagination. They make my heart sing and recognize that I am on the right path and doing good in our own small way. It’s beautiful. A miracle that I recognize and am humbled by. As I write this, I’m smiling and thankful for you, my extended Palladium friends and family. I appreciate you. You are special and I want you to know it.


Your words and support help me find the strength to never give up, not even when my own spirit is shattered and my heart is broken or breaking. Instead, you inspire me and fuel my spirit in ways that are magical. Thank you. Thank you for being part of my life, my family. Thank you for all you have given to me and Sean, and everyone at Palladium Books. Thank you for being awesome.


This year has been especially difficult and challenging for me, but you, my wonderful fan friends, have been there to help me survive and regain my footing. Whether you realized it or not, you have been there to help hold me up and give me hope and encouragement whenever I need it most. Thank you.


Life always has its challenges and difficulties, its moments of sorrow and fear, pain and struggle. Yet, even in the worst and darkest of times there is kindness, beauty, love, and wonder if you let yourself see it. I see you and I thank you for filling my life with all those good things, especially when I need them the most. I look back upon my dazzling life and I’m wowed. It has been amazing all because of you, the wonderful friends and fans, who have become an important part of my existence and motivation. Thank you, all of you.


Please continue to be the best person you can be. Be assured that every act of kindness and patience and caring, no matter how small, makes the world better and brighter. It touches people in ways that may never be voiced, but is welcomed and appreciated beyond measure, and often affects people in a quiet but profound way. Be the light. Be happy. Be kind to yourself and others. Enjoy the holidays and game on. Ho, ho, ho!


– Kevin Siembieda, Publisher, Game Designer, Friend, and Surrogate Santa

Surprise Package Comments from fans like you

Every year we like to post a selection of the comments we get from Surprise Package customers. It’s a nice acknowledgement and thank you to them (you know who you are) and you enjoy reading them. I read each and every comment that comes in the Surprise Packages, and they always brighten our day. We all appreciate your kind words, suggestions, and insights. In fact, the idea to do hardcover editions of core rule books came from fan comments in the Grab Bags. We get a lot so we can only offer a sampling of these comments in the Weekly Updates.


Our heartfelt thanks to all of you who have stuck with Palladium through thick and thin and now these new strange times. Please use our games to find escape from your day to day grind and worries. Use them to bring a little joy, laughter, and adventure to the holiday season and beyond.


Your comments and support mean the world to all of us. Thank you for making us smile and feel valued. As always, I have tried to write a short response [in brackets] to each comment. Happy holidays.


– Kevin Siembieda (and the Palladium Crew)

C.L. in Artesia, New Mexico, writes: Once again I must thank you for the many years of fun. I still haven’t gotten to run or play a game in a good long time, but will find players again, so thank you for all the worlds you have created that have inspired my imagination.


[The pleasure is all ours, C.L., glad you still enjoy reading our games and are planning to play again soon. Good luck and Merry Christmas. May it and the New Year be bright. – Kevin]



M.M. in New Braunfels, Texas, writes: I love the Christmas Surprise Package deal. I gift it to myself every year. I love the personal autographs. I can’t wait till the TMNT RPG books come out. They’re set to ship around my birthday. Merry Christmas to all of you at Palladium Books!


[Thank you M.M., Merry Christmas to you and yours. I could gush on and on about the TMNT & Other Strangeness RPG products, but I’ll simply say they are magnificent and you’ll love ‘em. Your first sign of things to come. – Kevin]



C.S. in Collierville, Tennessee, writes: Rifts® and Palladium Fantasy I’ve been playing since childhood. Palladium is the only company from my childhood I’m still supporting every year.


[Wow, thank you, C.S., we appreciate your support. Game on! – Kevin]



C.C. in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, writes: Favorites: Dead Reign. Thanks for all the memories.


[You are very welcome, C.C. Building beautiful memories is a wondrous thing. My years of creating and playing RPGs have given me a treasure trove of fond memories and precious friends. You may be glad to hear that we have many more memories in the making. Projects and publications we hope will continue to wow and inspire. Enjoy the Surprise Package and make a whole bunch more epic memories. – Kevin]



K.O. in Farmington, Missouri, writes (in part): Palladium has always been there for me. From the early days of a wide-eyed 8 year old finding a dog-eared copy of TMNT & Other Strangeness at a used bookstore and wondering what the heck it was, to the modern 45 year old sharing his love of the products with a younger crowd. You guys have been there to stoke the creative fires and provide wonderful worlds to love and experience. No matter what else may happen, this fan for life will always have room for you guys in his heart. Thank you so very much for being there and doing what you do.


[K.O., thank you from the bottom of my heart. We appreciate every fan who supports us in any way. We loved reading your fun comment. Fear not, we plan to continue to inspire for years to come. – Kevin]



E.C. in Wausau, Wisconsin, writes (in part): I almost didn’t place a Surprise Package order this year. But I could use the cheer and there are still a few items I wish for my collection … can’t wait to receive my TMNT Redux books.


[Hey E.C., stay positive. I hope the Surprise Package brought you the good cheer you were hoping for. Oh, and the TMNT & Other Strangeness Redux books are nothing short of gorgeous. You will be delighted. Please don’t let life get you down. Things will get better. Hang tough and game on! Ho, ho, ho – Kevin]



M.F. in Lakeland, Minnesota, writes (in part): Favorites: Palladium Fantasy, maybe? Also Ninjas & Superspies and Mystic China. Rifts are also great. Maybe all of them! I have to mention the Glitterbois podcast … I recently started listening to and really enjoying it. I like all the episodes and it’s interesting to hear other people’s perspective on Palladium material, games and gameplay outside of my own little group. I also enjoy Kevin’s appearances and hearing about the history and development as well as the stories behind things. I have to say it’s given me more interest in Palladium stuff in our group … Happy holidays and thanks again.


[Thank you, M.F., for making us laugh. Glad you love all of our game settings. The Glitterbois podcast is fun, for certain. If you like it, you’ll enjoy the video history on the Palladium YouTube Channel as well as Sean’s and my appearances on Legion of Myth. In fact, we posted a special holiday message to all our fans today (December 24). Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. – Kevin]



B.W. in Chandler, Arizona, writes: I’m back for more! I regret getting rid of my collection years ago, so it’s nice being able to take advantage of these great [Surprise Package] deals. It’s also great seeing you guys make more appearances on Legion of Myth to do more than talk about upcoming projects, and talk about how to run games. I’m really looking forward to watching more. Maybe one day I’ll come up with a good topic to have you guys back on for.


[B.W., the Surprise Package offer is, indeed, a great way to rebuild your collection, so come on back as often as you would like. Sean and I love to talk about gaming, G.M.ing, and creating and running RPGs, so you can count on hearing more on such subjects. We’ll be doing the same on the Palladium YouTube channel after we get through much of Palladium’s history, and check out the Glitterbois podcasts too. They are all fun. – Kevin]



D.A. in North Grafton, Massachusetts, writes: Favorites are Rifts®, TMNT and Beyond the Supernatural. This is the last Surprise Package for me this year, these packages have been great! I’m excited for your 2025 releases and hope everyone there is doing well. Happy holidays!


[Merry Christmas, D.A., and Happy New Year. We are doing well, thank you. Same to you. Glad you have enjoyed the Christmas Surprise Package offer so much. Enjoy your last one — though it doesn’t need to be the last. As usual, I have extended the offer into the first week or so of the New Year. Just saying. Have fun and game on. – Kevin]



D.T. in San Antonio, Texas, writes (in part): Looking forward to the TMNT & Other Strangeness RPG books coming soon … Hope you and your families have an amazing Christmas. I’ve had to go through a holiday season after losing a very much loved one and I hope that it’s a good one for you. You are very much in people’s prayers. Thank you for all the hard work you and Sean do. Merry Christmas and happy New Year to you all.


[I’m sorry for your loss too, D.T. Losing a person you deeply care about is always difficult and makes life afterward bittersweet. I’ve lost a lot of people over the years, both parents, Erick, Keith, and others, but I’m happy to say I have wonderful friends and fans, like you D.T., to help me through it. Wayne and his lovely wife had me over for Thanksgiving. I must have made a good impression, because they have invited me over for Christmas too. Though I still experience good days and bad days, most are good and I’m getting through the holidays with warm memories of all those I’ve loved and lost. Prayers and warm thoughts are always welcome, thank you, everyone. All the TMNT & Other Strangeness products look amazing. Physical FanRoll test samples arrived for our inspection and approval last week and they are of impeccable quality. We just need a few tweaks done to the packaging. All TMNT fans will go wild over everything. I’m not a dice tower or tray guy but, wow, they look great! And the Shredder dice are super-cool. I could gush on about it all, so I better stop now. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you all. – Kevin]



J.S. in Shulerville, South Carolina, writes (in part): I played in a long-running campaign back when Rifts® was first released and loved it. Life kinda got in the way since then, but I never forgot and never got rid of that first Rifts® book. The cover is so iconic. I’m getting my son into it now and I am building a campaign to run for him and his friends … this will be my second Surprise Package … I’d like to let you know how much I appreciate how even after all of these years, the game that I remember is still here for me to enjoy. It hasn’t gone through 50 versions and Palladium hasn’t asked me to purchase all new books to stay up to date on new rules every couple of years. You guys are the best!


[Ahhh, shucks, J.S., we appreciate your kind words. I’m glad our games are there for you, waiting like an old, familiar friend. Good luck on that new campaign. I’m sure it will be a blast to play. – Kevin]



D.D. in Leavenworth, Kansas, writes: Sorry for your loss this year. I wish you the best life you can have after something like that. Looking forward to the TMNT & Other Strangeness Redux editions next year. I’m so happy to see something like this happening.


[I appreciate your kind sentiment, D.D. My life is beautiful and full of friends and joy. I’m grateful to have had such a kind and wonderful soul as Kathy in my life for so many years. She is missed, but I’m trying to live life to the fullest and find joy in every moment I can. Kathy would want that for us all. The TMNT books are epic, you’ll love ‘em. – Kevin]



P.S. in Manistee, Michigan, writes: I received a flyer for your books when I was a teenager and just reading the descriptions filled my mind with so many cool ideas and made my imagination run wild … I’ve been immensely impressed at the creativity and art so far. Keep up the great work.


[Will do, P.S., will do. – Kevin]



M.J. in Godwin, North Carolina, writes (in part): Old school Rifts® and Beyond the Supernatural player. Upgrading to the newer editions. I have most Rifts® books in PDF format, but am trying to secure paper copies … By the way, I spent the night after my wedding rehearsal dinner, in 1998, playing Rifts® with my groomsmen. I got my son and his friends playing Palladium games the past year. A few weekends ago, my son and his groomsmen played Palladium games after his wedding rehearsal dinner … The circle is complete. Thank you Kevin and Company for many years of outstanding, imaginative fun.


[Awesome, M.J., thanks for sharing that fun story. I was introduced to the board game Risk at an all ages bachelor party to accommodate the groom’s younger brother and the others of us present who were at the legal drinking age. That game changed my life and brought me years of enjoyment. – Kevin]



C.D. in Hagerstown, Maryland, writes (in part): … Table Top RPGs are an important part of me maintaining mental health … I have played many systems and enjoyed lots of different genres and worlds, but nothing captivates me the way the world of Palladium Fantasy does. Kevin created an absolute masterpiece that always draws me back in, wanting to explore more and more. It has given me countless hours of deeply necessary joy over my lifetime and I eagerly await more sourcebooks to dive into … I wish you all happy holidays and hope to see Palladium continue to grow.


[Wow, C.D., thank you for your humbling words of praise. I am thrilled my games, especially Palladium Fantasy, have brought you so much enjoyment. It has done the same for me. I know a lot of people use RPGs to find peace, camaraderie, laughter and adventure with friends to escape the challenges of our everyday world. That’s part of the magic of role-playing. I do it too, not just by playing RPGs, but when I write them. Creating worlds of fantastic adventure have helped me through many sorrows and tribulations. They are my joy, so I’m glad they are the source of joy for other people as well. Wonderful. Palladium Fantasy was the first game I designed and it remains a personal favorite. Thank you, C.D., and all of you, for joining me on these wondrous adventures across the infinite Megaverse. I hope these past 40+ years are only the beginning as a new generation of RPG gurus join me to continue the Palladium legacy for years to come. Happy holidays. – Kevin]



G.M. in Killeen, Texas, writes: You’ve made this Army veteran merry every Christmas. I can’t wait to see how you’re gonna do it this year. Merry Christmas Kevin and Crew.


[Glad to know we are getting it right for you, G.M. Thank you for your military service, Merry Christmas, and enjoy that Surprise Package. – Kevin]



B.B.S. in Portland, Oregon, writes: Thank you so much. I love the Grab Bags and these books!


[Me too, B.B.S., We all love doing the Surprise Packages and making gamers happy. Which is why I try to extend the offer after Christmas and into the first 10-15 days of the New Year. Due to the recent Canadian postal worker strike, extending the offer may be especially important to our friends in Canada. Enjoy what you received and consider getting another to treat yourself, build a new campaign for the coming year, or as a gift for someone’s birthday or anniversary. A few new RPG sourcebooks or a new game is always a nice way to start the New Year off right. Game on. – Kevin]



J.T. in Athens, Alabama, writes: Merry Christmas, Palladium, and have a happy and prosperous New Year.


[Right back at you, J.T. Please enjoy the delights of the holidays and may the New Year be a happy and prosperous one for us all. – Kevin]


A.R. in McEwen, Tennessee, writes: Thanks and Merry Christmas.


[Thank you, A.R., and Merry Christmas/Hanukkah/Kwanzaa/holidays to you and all our fans. I hope it’s a beautiful long weekend filled with love, laughter, good eats, and joy. Ho, ho, ho – Kevin]

Holiday Cheer – Palladium Books® – Weekly Update – December 19, 2024

Written by pb_addy on . Posted in Weekly Updates.

Weekly Update

ONE GAME SYSTEM – EVERY GENRE – COUNTLESS WORLDS – ENDLESS ADVENTURE

BY KEVIN SIEMBIEDA

Holiday Cheer – Palladium Books® – Weekly Update – December 19, 2024

Holiday madness has been in full swing for a couple of weeks now. So I think we have all been fluctuating between Christmas good cheer and pure exhaustion. That’s okay, we’ve been glad to see so many of you enjoying the sales and the Christmas Surprise Package deal.


The Surprise Package deal continues through December 24, Christmas Eve, so there is still time to snag one for yourself or as a gift for someone else, especially if you don’t need it in time for Christmas. The Surprise Package is great for birthdays and anniversaries, and even Valentine’s Day and other gift-giving occasions that take place in January, February, and March.

Note: If you need delivery in time for Christmas, Palladium needs your order tonight so we can ship it out Friday or Monday via 2nd Day or Next Day Air. Look, most people understand if a Christmas package arrives a few days after Christmas, and even a few weeks later. Who doesn’t like getting a gift for any reason, anytime?


History of Palladium Books – The Palladium Fantasy RPG episode (I think one of two) went live on the Palladium Books YouTube channel today. Enjoy. A new episode drops every other week.

What’s hot at Palladium this week? It’s Christmas/Hanukkah/Kwanzaa time so everything is hot, but especially all things Rifts®, Palladium Fantasy®, Heroes Unlimited and Dead Reign®, and hardcovers. The Surprise Package deal continues thru December 24, so please keep the orders coming and enjoy.

Valley of the Pharaohs 40th Anniversary

NEW! Valley of the Pharaohs RPG – 40th Anniversary Edition

Valley of the Pharaohs is back with 200 additional pages of material as a softcover and hardcover RPG. It is written by the original author Matthew Balent (Palladium Weapon series), and includes the original artwork and map by Kevin Siembieda, but this is NOT the Palladium game system. It’s an original game system designed by Matt.


The original Valley of the Pharaohs RPG is a rare, expensive collectible if you can even find it. But now you can get the super-expanded, 254 page, 40th Anniversary Edition softcover – or – the 274 page hardcover with bonus material, from Palladium Books. The new, 40th Anniversary Valley of Pharaohs is written and published by the original author, Matthew Balent (Weapons and Armor, Weapons & Castles, etc.). Like the original game, it uses its own, unique game rules – not the Palladium game system – but they, like the game world and text, are unique and fun.


This game is authorized by Kevin Siembieda and Palladium Books and includes many of Kevin’s original VotP RPG illustrations and maps.


If you are a Palladium Books collector or you love Egyptian mythology and historical fiction, this game is a must. It is likely as close as you’ll come to owning the original Valley of the Pharaohs. Besides, this is a vastly expanded and improved edition that includes all those original ideas and much of the artwork vastly expanded and improved. The original rule book was only 64 or 96 pages, plus maps; this is a 250+ page tome by the scholarly Matthew Balent and is an alternative reality, ancient Egypt that is epic and well written. It’s a fun read filled with ideas, magic, monsters, and characters you can, with a little work, convert to Palladium Fantasy, Rifts, or any RPG world.

  • Play humans or Bird People, Crocodilian People, Dog People, Snake People, and more!

  • Character Classes include: Priest, Thief, Military, Scholar, and more.

  • 300+ magic spells inspired by Egyptian myth and classic fantasy.

  • Many magic items, magic pictures and more.

  • Dozens of monsters and supernatural beings like the mummy, sphinx, sand slug, and others drawn from or inspired by Egyptian mythology.

  • Learn about Ka (magic), Maat (alignment and order), and Kismet.

  • Clear and concise Egyptian lore, its society, and history.

  • Game rules and writing by Matthew Balent.

  • A complete RPG with unique rules. Note: Does not use the Palladium game rules.

  • $40.00 retail – 254 page softcover – Cat. No. 2621 – complete RPG.

  • $60.00 retail – 274 page hardcover with bonus material – Cat. No. 2621HC – complete RPG.

Christmas Surprise Packages

SALE Final Days – Christmas Surprise Package offer – Sale ENDS December 24 – and remember, only ONE shipping day till Christmas

The best deal in gaming – $100+ worth of goodies (often more) for $60 (plus shipping). Books are signed if you want them to be. It is just 1 shipping day till Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa! The Surprise Package Offer ends December 24, 2024. Don’t miss out!


A great gift for any holiday, birthdays, anniversaries, or a nice treat for yourself (you deserve it), or a way to try new settings, and fill your collection. After these past five crazy years, you deserve to do something nice for yourself and your gaming pals. The Surprise Package Offer gets you physical game books at PDF prices, and we will sign them if you would like us to.


What is a Christmas Surprise Package? A smile and a hug that comes in a box filled with signed game books from available Palladium staff and freelancers. And God knows this year continues to be so crazy, we need something fun like the Christmas Surprise Package to bring a little joy and laughter into our lives. With so many people suffering from the fallout of the election, inflation, and related doldrums, we can all use some time escaping into realms of role-playing adventures. Not to mention the huge savings and autographs available via a Palladium Christmas Surprise Package.


A Surprise Package is your way to get physical books (and autographs if you want them) for PDF prices! $100+ worth of Palladium products for only $60 (plus shipping)! That can nab you four or more items when these days one core rule book can cost you that alone.


These Surprise Packages are our way of saying thank you for your support and showing you our love and appreciation. It’s a surprise because you never know exactly what you’re going to get or who will sign your books, because we pick from your Wish List and may surprise you with stuff you are not expecting. Extra items may include other RPGs, sourcebooks, issues of the Rifter®, novels, miniatures, prints, art books, greeting cards, T-shirts, negatives, and other items. Some books may be slightly damaged (scuffs, scratches, dings, a crunched corner, etc.) so we can send you more.


You get a ton of stuff on the cheap, you can get a bunch of autographs (if you want ‘em), and you look like you spent a fortune. This is also a great way to try that game setting you’ve wondered about – Rifts®, Chaos Earth®, Dead Reign®, Heroes Unlimited, After the Bomb® (compatible with TMNT RPG), Ninjas & Superspies, Palladium Fantasy®, Nightbane®, Systems Failure, Mechanoid Invasion®, etc. – or to get something for your favorite Game Master. Or perhaps, to get your player group to consider a new game or setting.

300+ RPG products on DriveThru – a dozen unique world settings – one game system – endless possibilities. No other game company offers game worlds for so many different genres. Best of all, learn to play one Palladium RPG and you can play them all, because each uses the same basic core rules and combat. There are differences, but the fundamentals are the same. This also means you can bring characters, villains, monsters, powers, magic, weapons, gear, and adventure ideas from one setting into another or mash them together!


In addition to PDF titles for entire game lines like Rifts®, Palladium Fantasy®, Heroes Unlimited™, Ninjas & Superspies™, After the Bomb®, Beyond the Supernatural™, Dead Reign® (zombies), Nightbane® (Urban Fantasy), Rifts Chaos Earth®, Systems Failure™, Splicers®, RECON®, The Rifter® #1-85, and others, there are Game Master and player aids, character generators, paper minis, map packs, and FREE Previews of books like Creature Feature™, Dead Reign, Coalition Manhunters, Titan Robotics™, Rifts Bestiary Volume One, World Books, Dimension Books, and more to give you a glimpse of what’s in the book. Enjoy endless adventures across the Megaverse®.

Palladium Collectibles – at Kevin’s Online Toy & Collectibles eBay Store

I am adding new collectibles of all kinds to my Ebay store in time for the holiday season. Some are Palladium negatives, rare and out of print books, original Palladium artwork, prints, posters, as well as other collectible toys, action figures, Nightmare Before Christmas items, one-of-a-kind proofreader copies, books, and other good stuff – including Erick Wujcik’s rare and sought after Amberzine #12-15. Check in every week or so to see what’s new. All items come from Kevin Siembieda’s personal collection.


One-of-a-kind Palladium Books negatives (special and rare collectibles). Negatives are always very popular items at the Palladium Open House, Gen Con, and conventions, and are catching on as rare collectibles, unique in and of themselves. Before digital printing, pages of a book were laid out by hand on a board, and each page was photographed.

  • Each negative is truly unique, attractive, and fun to have.

  • Own a piece of Palladium Books and RPG history you will treasure.

  • Each was used to print the very book you may have in your collection (1981-2004).

  • Each is signed in silver ink by Kevin Siembieda and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity.

  • Each negative is a one-of-a-kind work of art (on rare occasions, two-of-a-kind if a page or section of pages were replaced or a second edition was made).

  • Looks great matted or framed! Fits an 8×10 inch matt opening. Each neg is roughly 8 ½ x 11 inches.

  • Prices vary depending on the title, the art, and quality of the negative. Note: Many have scratches, or blemishes, and/or an opaque medium on the negative. Still, they look great and are a piece of RPG history. We recommend you carefully examine the photographs of each item to avoid disappointment. The negatives of many books are sold out or were never available.

Closing Thoughts

Honestly, my head is swirling. I wish I could say with sugar plums, but it’s a thousand details. Warehouse guy Caleb, Wayne, Alex, and I have been picking, pulling, signing, packing and shipping out tons of books for Christmas Surprise Packages as well as lots of regular orders. We want packages to reach their destination in time for Christmas. Whew. That has meant working weekends since well before Black Friday. Glad to do it! Keep the orders coming, though they are not likely to arrive by Christmas after today.


I think this year, I actually got 80-90% of my Christmas gifts wrapped and shipped in time for Christmas to the many people I like to acknowledge and give something to show my appreciation. The rest will have to arrive after the holidays. I’m sure everyone will understand.


On top of that, we are juggling a thousand other things: Bookkeeping and business stuff, inventory prep, reorganization, advertising, TMNT product and packaging tweaks and approvals, YouTube videos, 2025 convention and trade show planning (yes, already), coordinating art and writing on various projects, pitches for … (oops, can’t reveal those yet), and just surviving the holidays. With this being my first batch of holidays without my sweet, Kathy Simmons, that last part is tougher for me some days than others. Overall, I’m doing alright. I’m blessed with wonderful friends. In fact, tonight is our office party, tiny this year, so I’d better end this Update right here. More info in the weeks to come.


We wish you happy holidays filled with joy and love. Don’t let the gift buying, present wrapping, and stress wear you out too badly. YOU need to survive the holidays too. I mean it. The holidays can be emotionally draining. Depression is commonplace. Please, reach out to your friends and loved ones. Don’t isolate yourself. And know you are not alone. Things will get better. Hang tough with me and we’ll get through this together.


Hey, you wanna see love and kindness and human goodness? Read the Surprise Package Comments below. They always put smiles on our faces. Enjoy.


– Kevin Siembieda, Publisher, Game Designer, Friend, and Surrogate Santa

Surprise Package Comments from fans like you

Every year we like to post a selection of the comments we get from Surprise Package customers. It’s a nice acknowledgement and thank you to them (you know who you are) and you enjoy reading them. I read each and every comment that comes in the Surprise Packages, and they always brighten our day. We all appreciate your kind words, suggestions, and insights. In fact, the idea to do hardcover editions of core rule books came from fan comments in the Grab Bags. We get a lot so we can only offer a sampling of these comments in the Weekly Updates.


Our heartfelt thanks to all of you who have stuck with Palladium through thick and thin and now these new strange times. Please use our games to find escape from your day to day grind and worries. Use them to bring a little joy, laughter, and adventure to the holiday season and beyond.


Your comments and support mean the world to all of us. Thank you for making us smile and feel valued. As always, I have tried to write a short response [in brackets] to each comment. Happy holidays.


– Kevin Siembieda (and the Palladium Crew)

M.C. in Casper, Wyoming, writes: Thank you for doing the Surprise Packages again this year. You have been my favorite gaming company since I discovered Ninjas & Superspies way back in 1988. Merry Christmas and all the best for the New Year.


[Thank you, M.C., glad we’ve managed to keep you and so many other fans for all these years. Awesome. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you as well. We have big plans for 2025 so buckle up and enjoy the ride. – Kevin]



K.S. in West Fargo, North Dakota, writes: Thank you so much for doing this [Surprise Package]. I adore your books and it makes me feel nice to be able to splurge on myself a bit without breaking the bank. Absolutely loving the History of Palladium series that’s going on. Stoked to see the next episode on Palladium Fantasy [posted on the Palladium YouTube channel today, December 19, 2024]. Additionally, Nightbane® is amazing! I have everything and wish there was more to buy. Also excited for the TMNT & Other Strangeness Redux editions to ship [spring 2025]. Backed it happily.


[Thank you, K.S., for the praise about our many game worlds. Sounds like you’re as passionate about them as we are. We’re loving the YouTube videos and podcasts we are doing and are delighted so many fans are enjoying them as well. Nice. We have a lot planned for 2025 and hope to surprise fans with our productivity, but we’ll all have to see how things pan out. Keep your imagination burning, K.S., and continue to explore your favorite game worlds. – Kevin]



P.S. in Manistee, Michigan, writes: I was very pleased with the first Surprise Package I had ordered. The Coalition War print was awesome and is set up in my gaming cabinet.


[We’re happy you were so satisfied with all your goodies, P.S., and that you love the print. It’s one of my many favorites. – Kevin]



A.R. in McEwen, Tennessee, writes: Thanks so much for the first box! The 1st Edition Beyond the Supernatural hardcover is gorgeous!


[That BTS-1 hardcover is a beauty, alright. Glad you enjoyed it and the first Surprise Package, A.R., I hope the second one hits the spot too. Game on. – Kevin]



J.N. in Springfield, Missouri, writes: Thank you for making this Christmas sale available every year. It means a lot that you take the time and care to sign and send copies of our favorite game books.


[It is a lot of time and work, J.N., but it’s worth every minute to put smiles on the faces of gamers around the world. It’s our way of giving back and saying thank you for your support all year long. Merry Christmas and game on. – Kevin]



D.C. in Northport, Alabama, writes: This will be my second Grab Bag and they are great, thank you so much. Favorites: Ninjas & Superspies, Rifts®, all of them.


[Hey D.C., you are very welcome, our pleasure. Keep your imagination burning bright. – Kevin]



D.M. in Upland, California, writes: This is my third year doing this. I have been a fan of each box I get. This [Surprise Package] is a fantastic idea, and this time I may break down and get more than one.


[Happy you and so many others are loving the Surprise Package deal. You are certainly welcome to buy more than one. Enjoy and game on. – Kevin]



C.G. in Clinton, New York, writes: Hey Kevin and the Palladium Crew, I am filling in my friend’s Palladium collection. Merry Christmas.


[What a nice thing to do, C.G., that’s the Christmas spirit. – Kevin]



J.B. in Portland, Oregon, writes: I am a big fan of the original TMNT RPG. Thanks once again for the X-Mas Surprise Package. I have been a big fan of Palladium since the late 1980s and have really enjoyed the opportunity to collect new books and replace old ones with this seasonal offering. I’m looking forward to starting up a Heroes Unlimited campaign very soon at my local library. Cheers!


[J.B., I’m glad you’ve enjoyed our books and the Surprise Package offer these many years. That Heroes Unlimited campaign sounds like it will be fun. Make sure you get the TMNT & Other Strangeness Redux editions coming spring 2025. They are fantastic, in full color and remastered. – Kevin]



W.D. in McClure, Pennsylvania, writes: I may not be Palladium’s biggest fan, but I’m a pretty huge one. I promised myself I‘d start building out my Palladium Books library, and that is what I’ve done. Kevin and everyone at Palladium have been my inspiration for a long time and I hope one day I can put something into The Rifter® myself. Stay classy, Palladium!


[How does one determine how big a fan someone is, W.D.? I love all our fans! I mean that. Each and every one of you are the greatest fans I’ve ever seen, and we appreciate your support. You folks are our source of inspiration in this lovely relationship. Don’t be shy, W.D., send in that Rifter® submission. It doesn’t have to be long, just fun. Game on and stay awesome. – Kevin]



R.P. in Oxford Mills, Ontario, Canada, writes (in part): I love the Palladium Fantasy RPG so much. The world gets my brain going and inspires me. I reread the books over and over for inspiration. Exploring the infinite corners of Rifts® likewise …


[I love hearing that, R.P. Isn’t it fun how every time you reread a book you notice something new or that you’ve been meaning to play? I have the same experience and I wrote most of the darn books. Lol. Keep your imagination burning bright. – Kevin]



M.K in Hanover, Maryland, writes: Really appreciate your work. Palladium has put out so many interesting books, it feels like I have endless sources of inspiration to draw on whenever needed.


[That’s the plan, M.K., and we really appreciate your kind words and support. Keep on enjoying Rifts® and explore the entire Megaverse® over time. Ho, ho, ho. – Kevin]



C.O. in Chicago, Illinois, writes: Thank you so much for Rifts®. I just want to say I love this game. It’s the only table top RPG I play and it’s been 24 years of fun. My favorites have been Psyscape, New West, and Lone Star.


[I’m glad you enjoy Rifts® so much, C.O. What a fun setting, right? As I write this, I realize you were looking to try the Nightbane® setting and I didn’t send it to you. Sorry, maybe next time. – Kevin]



G.D. in Punta Gorda, Florida, writes: I have just started running my first games of Palladium Fantasy for myself and my group. We love it so far! I am looking to branch out and try all of what Palladium has to offer at some point. Thank you for your games. I also appreciate all of the podcasts you guys do, especially Legion of Myth. Hope you all enjoy the holidays!


[We hope your holidays are full of joy, G.D. I’m so relieved people are loving Palladium’s YouTube series and podcast efforts. I was nervous about doing them because – well, I didn’t know if anyone really wanted to hear me, or me and Sean talk about gaming and the history of Palladium Books. It turns out you do and you’re loving it, so many more are coming throughout 2025. A new one posting every two weeks. We will also be addressing other topics like Tales of the Defilers and gaming advice. – Kevin]

2 Big Sales End Soon – Palladium Books® Weekly Update – December 12, 2024

Written by pb_addy on . Posted in Weekly Updates.

Weekly Update

ONE GAME SYSTEM – EVERY GENRE – COUNTLESS WORLDS – ENDLESS ADVENTURE

BY KEVIN SIEMBIEDA

2 Big Sales End Soon – Palladium Books® Weekly Update – December 12, 2024

Only 10 shipping days till Christmas!


This is the last weekend to order and get it in time for Christmas without paying for expedited shipping! And all the big holidays – Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa – are happening the same couple of days.


You place the orders now and we will pack and ship them out as fast as we can. We will be working throughout the weekend to make sure you get your order in time for Christmas or the other holidays. If you need it for the holidays we suggest Ground Advantage, UPS Ground, and Priority Mail. Media Mail is NOT likely to arrive in time for the holidays, your risk. Follow the guidelines below and keep the orders coming! We love making gamers happy with our famous Christmas Surprise Package and all our games. Hurry and spread the word about the Surprise Package and shipping deadlines.

Shipping Deadlines – for Christmas delivery – order now

– UPS Ground (anywhere in the contiguous USA) – December 15th. We must have your order by Sunday, December 15, to ship on December 16 to guarantee you get your package in time for the holidays. Last year, UPS was astonishing in its speed and accuracy of shipping. Order as soon as possible.


– United States Postal Service (in USA): Ground Advantage – December 15th. We must have your order by Sunday, December 15 to ship on December 16 or 17 to guarantee you get your package in time for the holidays. Sooner is better.


– United States Postal Service (in USA): Priority Mail – December 17th. We must have your order by Tuesday, December 17, to ship on December 18 to guarantee you to get your package in time for the holidays. Sooner is better.


– United States Postal Service (in USA): Priority Mail EXPRESS (expensive) – December 18th. We must have your order by Wednesday, December 18, to ship on December 19, to guarantee you get your package in time for the holidays. Sooner is better.


– UPS 3-Day Select – December 17th, but you will pay for expedited shipping.


– UPS 2nd Day Air – December 18th, but you will pay for expedited shipping.


– UPS Next Day Air – December 19th (to arrive December 24, Christmas Eve) – Palladium Needs that order submitted by December 19th, so we can pack and ship it December 20th to arrive Monday or Tuesday, Christmas Eve, but please don’t cut it that close or pay such a high price for expedited shipping.


– We say NO to Media Mail for Christmas – There is less than a 50/50 chance your package arrives in time for Christmas when you use Media Mail at this point. YOU assume ALL risk when you ship via Media Mail. If an order arrives late, goes missing, or is damaged in transit, it will NOT be replaced by Palladium Books.


– No shipments to Canada! – Until the Canadian postal workers end the strike, we cannot ship to Canada. Moreover, orders shipped just prior to the strike may be sitting in limbo.


– Any orders placed after these dates may arrive in time for Christmas but we cannot guarantee it AND you should assume they will NOT arrive in time for Christmas. Moreover, storms, accidents, and other unforeseen circumstances may delay shipping, so please place your order as soon as possible. Happy holidays.


– 2024 Shipping Note: Please make sure your address is complete and correct! As always, at Palladium, we will be working overtime and doing everything we can to process orders as fast as possible to get them to you for the holidays. However, after the package leaves the Palladium warehouse, delivery is out of our hands. As we get closer to Christmas, UPS Ground and Priority Mail will be your most reliable and timely methods of shipping. Thank you for your understanding.

Valley of the Pharaohs 40th Anniversary

NEW! Valley of the Pharaohs RPG – 40th Anniversary Edition

The original Valley of the Pharaohs RPG is a rare, expensive collectible if you can even find it. But now you can get the super-expanded, 254 page, 40th Anniversary Edition softcover – or – the 274 page hardcover with bonus material, from Palladium Books. The new, 40th Anniversary Valley of Pharaohs is written and published by the original author, Matthew Balent (Weapons and Armor, Weapons & Castles, etc.). Like the original game, it uses its own, unique game rules – not the Palladium game system – but they, like the game world and text, are unique and fun.


This game is authorized by Kevin Siembieda and Palladium Books and includes many of Kevin’s original VotP RPG illustrations and maps.


If you are a Palladium Books collector or you love Egyptian mythology and historical fiction, this game is a must. It is likely as close as you’ll come to owning the original Valley of the Pharaohs. Besides, this is a vastly expanded and improved edition that includes all those original ideas and much of the artwork vastly expanded and improved. The original rule book was only 64 or 96 pages, plus maps; this is a 250+ page tome by the scholarly Matthew Balent and is an alternative reality, ancient Egypt that is epic and well written. It’s a fun read filled with ideas, magic, monsters, and characters you can, with a little work, convert to Palladium Fantasy, Rifts, or any RPG world.

  • Play humans or Bird People, Crocodilian People, Dog People, Snake People, and more!

  • Character Classes include: Priest, Thief, Military, Scholar, and more.

  • 300+ magic spells inspired by Egyptian myth and classic fantasy.

  • Many magic items, magic pictures and more.

  • Dozens of monsters and supernatural beings like the mummy, sphinx, sand slug, and others drawn from or inspired by Egyptian mythology.

  • Learn about Ka (magic), Maat (alignment and order), and Kismet.

  • Clear and concise Egyptian lore, its society, and history.

  • Game rules and writing by Matthew Balent.

  • A complete RPG with unique rules. Note: Does not use the Palladium game rules.

  • $40.00 retail – 254 page softcover – Cat. No. 2621 – complete RPG.

  • $60.00 retail – 274 page hardcover with bonus material – Cat. No. 2621HC – complete RPG.

SALE Final Days – Palladium Stocking Stuffer Sale – Most items 30-50% off – Sale ends Wednesday, December 18, 2024.

The name of the sale says it all – fun small items that could be slipped into a Christmas stocking. Enjoy and happy holidays.


Rifts® 25mm Metal Miniatures – 50% off


Rifts® Heroic 28mm Resin Miniatures – 30-40% off

Christmas Surprise Packages

SALE Final Days – Christmas Surprise Package offer – Sale ENDS December 24 – and remember, only 10 shipping days till Christmas

The best deal in gaming – $100+ worth of goodies (often more) for $60 (plus shipping). Books are signed if you want them to be. It is just 10 shipping days till Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa! The Surprise Package Offer ends December 24, 2024. Don’t miss out!


A great gift for any holiday, birthdays, anniversaries, or a nice treat for yourself (you deserve it), or a way to try new settings, and fill your collection. After these past five crazy years, you deserve to do something nice for yourself and your gaming pals. The Surprise Package Offer gets you physical game books at PDF prices, and we will sign them if you would like us to.


What is a Christmas Surprise Package? A smile and a hug that comes in a box filled with signed game books from available Palladium staff and freelancers. And God knows this year continues to be so crazy, we need something fun like the Christmas Surprise Package to bring a little joy and laughter into our lives. With so many people suffering from the fallout of the election, inflation, and related doldrums, we can all use some time escaping into realms of role-playing adventures. Not to mention the huge savings and autographs available via a Palladium Christmas Surprise Package.


A Surprise Package is your way to get physical books (and autographs if you want them) for PDF prices! $100+ worth of Palladium products for only $60 (plus shipping)! That can nab you four or more items when these days one core rule book can cost you that alone.


These Surprise Packages are our way of saying thank you for your support and showing you our love and appreciation. It’s a surprise because you never know exactly what you’re going to get or who will sign your books, because we pick from your Wish List and may surprise you with stuff you are not expecting. Extra items may include other RPGs, sourcebooks, issues of the Rifter®, novels, miniatures, prints, art books, greeting cards, T-shirts, negatives, and other items. Some books may be slightly damaged (scuffs, scratches, dings, a crunched corner, etc.) so we can send you more.


You get a ton of stuff on the cheap, you can get a bunch of autographs (if you want ‘em), and you look like you spent a fortune. This is also a great way to try that game setting you’ve wondered about – Rifts®, Chaos Earth®, Dead Reign®, Heroes Unlimited, After the Bomb® (compatible with TMNT RPG), Ninjas & Superspies, Palladium Fantasy®, Nightbane®, Systems Failure, Mechanoid Invasion®, etc. – or to get something for your favorite Game Master. Or perhaps, to get your player group to consider a new game or setting.

Notebook and Pen Sets

NEW – 3 Notebook & Pen Sets

If you’re looking for the perfect stocking stuffer or a fun practical gift, we have three for you.

NEW! Rifts® Unleash Your Imagination Blue Notebook & Pen Set

  • Black ink pen with comfortable, “soft touch” finish.

  • Matching 80 page, ruled paper notepad with matching color ribbon bookmark.

  • Pocket-size 3 ½ by 5 ½ inches to slip nicely into a back pocket or purse.

  • $9.99 per set – Cat. No. 2618 – available now.

NEW! Palladium Books® Live the Fantasy Black Notebook & Pen Set

  • Black ink pen with comfortable, “soft touch” finish.

  • Matching 80 page, ruled paper notepad with matching color ribbon bookmark.

  • Pocket-size 3 ½ by 5 ½ inches to slip nicely into a back pocket or purse.

  • $9.99 per set – Cat. No. 2619 – available now.

New! Heroes Unlimited™ Unleash Your Power Red Notebook & Pen Set

  • Black ink pen with comfortable, “soft touch” finish.

  • Matching 80 page, ruled paper notepad with matching color ribbon bookmark.

  • Pocket-size 3 ½ by 5 ½ inches to slip nicely into a back pocket or purse.

  • $9.99 per set – Cat. No. 2620 – available now.

NEW! Nightbane® Automated Character Sheet


Now available on DriveThruRPG.com – The Nightbane Automated Character Sheet follows a similar format as the popular Rifts® Automated Character Sheet designed by Greg Diaczyk.

  • Microsoft Excel-based system for creating, updating, and tracking your Nightbane RPG characters quickly and easily. Once you know the system, you can have characters up and ready in 10-15 minutes!

  • Create your human Facade and Nightbane Morphus in minutes.

  • Offers a vast range of Morphus choices.

  • Select from scores of Common and Elite Nightbane Talents.

  • Spells, psionics, and more.

  • $5.00 – Available now on DriveThruRPG.com and coming soon on PalladiumBooks.com – Created by Greg Diaczyk.

300+ RPG products on DriveThru – a dozen unique world settings – one game system – endless possibilities. No other game company offers game worlds for so many different genres. Best of all, learn to play one Palladium RPG and you can play them all, because each uses the same basic core rules and combat. There are differences, but the fundamentals are the same. This also means you can bring characters, villains, monsters, powers, magic, weapons, gear, and adventure ideas from one setting into another or mash them together!


In addition to PDF titles for entire game lines like Rifts®, Palladium Fantasy®, Heroes Unlimited™, Ninjas & Superspies™, After the Bomb®, Beyond the Supernatural™, Dead Reign® (zombies), Nightbane® (Urban Fantasy), Rifts Chaos Earth®, Systems Failure™, Splicers®, RECON®, The Rifter® #1-85, and others, there are Game Master and player aids, character generators, paper minis, map packs, and FREE Previews of books like Creature Feature™, Dead Reign, Coalition Manhunters, Titan Robotics™, Rifts Bestiary Volume One, World Books, Dimension Books, and more to give you a glimpse of what’s in the book. Enjoy endless adventures across the Megaverse®.

Palladium Collectibles – at Kevin’s Online Toy & Collectibles eBay Store

I am adding new collectibles of all kinds to my Ebay store in time for the holiday season. Some are Palladium negatives, rare and out of print books, original Palladium artwork, prints, posters, as well as other collectible toys, action figures, Nightmare Before Christmas items, one-of-a-kind proofreader copies, books, and other good stuff – including Erick Wujcik’s rare and sought after Amberzine #12-15. Check in every week or so to see what’s new. All items come from Kevin Siembieda’s personal collection.


One-of-a-kind Palladium Books negatives (special and rare collectibles). Negatives are always very popular items at the Palladium Open House, Gen Con, and conventions, and are catching on as rare collectibles, unique in and of themselves. Before digital printing, pages of a book were laid out by hand on a board, and each page was photographed.

  • Each negative is truly unique, attractive, and fun to have.

  • Own a piece of Palladium Books and RPG history you will treasure.

  • Each was used to print the very book you may have in your collection (1981-2004).

  • Each is signed in silver ink by Kevin Siembieda and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity.

  • Each negative is a one-of-a-kind work of art (on rare occasions, two-of-a-kind if a page or section of pages were replaced or a second edition was made).

  • Looks great matted or framed! Fits an 8×10 inch matt opening. Each neg is roughly 8 ½ x 11 inches.

  • Prices vary depending on the title, the art, and quality of the negative. Note: Many have scratches, or blemishes, and/or an opaque medium on the negative. Still, they look great and are a piece of RPG history. We recommend you carefully examine the photographs of each item to avoid disappointment. The negatives of many books are sold out or were never available.

Closing Thoughts & News Bits

I’ve been excited to see what Matthew Balent has done with the Valley of the Pharaohs RPG ever since he asked me if Palladium Books would allow him to expand his original game and self-publish it. That was two years ago. I think it is worth the read and is filled with well written lore, magic, monsters, people and society inspired by ancient Egyptian mythology. On this alternate Earth, magic and the supernatural are real. As I noted in the product description, this will be your best chance at ever getting Valley of Pharaohs because there are so few in existence. And this 40th Anniversary Edition is a far superior product.


Folks are getting excited about the TMNT & Other Strangeness RPG coming next year. They should be, because the books and all products are beautiful. I actually teared up when the FanRoll test products arrived. Wow. You can still get Kickstarter prices on select products via the TMNT & Other Strangeness Pre-Order Store.

Looking for something fun to watch? Check out the Official History of Palladium Books on the Palladium Books® YouTube Channel. Available now are episodes on:

You can get more Palladium fun with chats on the Legion of Myth and the Glitterbois podcasts, among others!

Order your Stocking Stuffer items from our sale and Surprise Packages while you still can. Meanwhile, enjoy the Surprise Package comments and don’t let the holiday stress get to you. Stay frosty and finish your shopping! Ho, ho, ho.


– Kevin Siembieda, Publisher, Game Designer, Friend, and Surrogate Santa

Surprise Package Comments from fans like you

Every year we like to post a selection of the comments we get from Surprise Package customers. It’s a nice acknowledgement and thank you to them (you know who you are) and you enjoy reading them. I read each and every comment that comes in the Surprise Packages, and they always brighten our day. We all appreciate your kind words, suggestions, and insights. In fact, the idea to do hardcover editions of core rule books came from fan comments in the Grab Bags. We get a lot so we can only offer a sampling of these comments in the Weekly Updates.


Our heartfelt thanks to all of you who have stuck with Palladium through thick and thin and now these new strange times. Please use our games to find escape from your day to day grind and worries. Use them to bring a little joy, laughter, and adventure to the holiday season and beyond.


Your comments and support mean the world to all of us. Thank you for making us smile and feel valued. As always, I have tried to write a short response [in brackets] to each comment. Happy holidays.


– Kevin Siembieda (and the Palladium Crew)

R.D. in Lathrup Village, Michigan, writes: Favorites: Rifts® and Beyond the Supernatural. Merry Christmas! Thanks so much for many years of Christmas Surprise Packages. It’s a great way to add to my collection and be surprised when I open it on Christmas Day.


[Merry Christmas, R.D., and thank you for your years of support. You’ll be pleased on Christmas morning. Ho, ho, ho. – Kevin]



R.H. in Tonawanda, New York, writes: I look forward to this [Surprise Package] all year. Thank you so much for the deal and for creating such wonderful worlds.


[You are welcome, R.H. I can’t imagine doing anything but creating worlds of wonder and adventure. It’s in my DNA. – Kevin]



B.C. in Walland, Tennessee, writes: Your full spectrum genre is awesome. I have enjoyed playing the various game environs for almost thirty years. You all are awesome. Thank you.


[It is with great joy, B.C., that we share with you the Palladium Megaverse®. We’re glad it is a realm of imagination you enjoy visiting so often. – Kevin]



D.H. in Ubly, Michigan, writes: Thank you guys for continuing to build on this awesome world. My husband’s first table top RPG was Rifts® and he still plays it to this day.


[Wow, that’s very cool. Thank you for sharing D.H., I hope your spouse continues to enjoy Rifts® for many years to come, because we have some mind bending books in the pipeline like Rifts® Bestiary Volume 2, Rifts® Antarctica and The Disavowed. – Kevin]



R.H. in Alabaster, Alabama, writes: Thanks for autographing The Rifters® I ordered earlier this year. It was a nice surprise. I look forward to the Christmas Surprise package every year. It’s like opening up a pack of trading cards on a much grander scale.


[R.H., you are welcome on all fronts. I think you’ll be pleased with your Surprise Package. Ho, ho, ho. – Kevin]



D.H. in Walla Walla, Washington, writes: Excited for the new TMNT RPG! [The Surprise Package deal] loving it! Each year spoils the gamers.


[The TMNT & Other Strangeness products coming next year are awesome and so are the Surprise Packages! I don’t know if they spoil the fans, but they are a great way for us to give back to you all and show our appreciation. Thanks for your support. – Kevin]



J.E. in Mesa, Arizona, writes (in part): Palladium is my favorite game company. It was the first publisher I ever brought and I’ve loved the books for 30+ years now. I went to Gen Con for the first time this year with one of the main reasons to meet Kevin. I did and he was gracious enough to spend almost an hour chatting with me. It was fantastic. Thank you so much for years of joy.


[Whew, I’m glad I didn’t disappoint you at Gen Con, J.E. The main reason we go is to meet and chat with our fans. Glad you enjoy our games so much. We have plenty more grand adventures in store for everyone. – Kevin]



B.F. in San Antonio, Texas, writes: I’m working on getting the whole Rifts® collection and the Christmas Surprise Package seems like a great way to start. Thank you!


[It is, B.F., and you are welcome. Enjoy and game on. – Kevin]



J.C. in Port Townsend, Washington, writes: Rifts® is the game I’ve played the most, but I grew up watching my brothers play Robotech® and TMNT & Other Strangeness. Thank you for last year’s goodies. The Chainsaw Glitter Boy mini made some friends quite jealous. By the way, I’ve been loving the interviews on the Glitterbois [podcast].


[I’m glad last year’s Surprise Package hit the spot, J.C., I think you’ll like this year’s package too. The Glitterbois podcasts with me are tons of fun. Also take a look at Palladium’s YouTube channel for similar interviews about Palladium’s origin and its games. – Kevin]



A.W. in Mountain Grove, Missouri, writes (in part): I and my gaming group have greatly enjoyed the Palladium game system for over 20 years now. Most of us started out playing 2nd Edition D&D, and it will always hold a special place for us. However, due to the all-around ease of the Palladium system, and the near infinite possibilities that emerge from having so many different settings using the same mechanics, our games quickly transitioned away from other systems. For us, the Palladium rules are now the bar by which we compare all other game systems. Over the years, several members of our group have been able to make it to various Palladium Open Houses. Normally, it’s only been 1 or 2 of us and then the rest got to hear about it (and be jealous). However, in 2009, five of us were able to attend and I have to say it was a truly amazing experience … please have another Open House soon.


[Game on, A.W., I love infinite possibilities! We are considering hosting a Palladium Open House in 2026 or 2027. We will keep you folks posted in a future Weekly Update, but you might wanna start putting some money aside for it, just in case. Ho, ho, ho – Kevin]

2 Weeks Till Christmas – Palladium Books® Weekly Update – December 5, 2024

Written by pb_addy on . Posted in Weekly Updates.

Weekly Update

ONE GAME SYSTEM – EVERY GENRE – COUNTLESS WORLDS – ENDLESS ADVENTURE

BY KEVIN SIEMBIEDA

2 Weeks Till Christmas – Palladium Books® Weekly Update – December 5, 2024

I hope everyone enjoyed a nice Thanksgiving Day and a long weekend. This is our busy season especially with Palladium’s super Black Friday thru Cyber-Wednesday sale that just ended last night. Whew, warehouse-master Caleb and I actually put in 5 hours of work Thanksgiving morning. Alex joined us to work through the entire weekend.


Please keep the orders coming, because we love making gamers happy with our famous Christmas Surprise Package offer – the absolute best deal in gaming. With this being Caleb’s first holiday season at Palladium Books (he’s the new guy), he actually finds the deluge of orders exciting. And like the rest of us, he enjoys reading all the nice comments that come along with many of the Surprise Package orders. It’s exciting to see so many people who love our books so much. We all work in a particular area of the warehouse where we chat and make jokes, and seeing so many orders being pulled, packaged, and shipped is exciting. Yes, we get an adrenaline rush from your orders and kind words. We love making gamers around the world happy, so please spread the word about the Surprise Package deal and keep the orders coming.

A different sale – Kevin’s Toys, Art and Collectibles SALE – Ends December 11. This is my (Kevin Siembieda’s) Ebay store where I am selling off items from my vast collection of games, toys, prints, and art. Negatives are on sale at half price. I also offer a selection of toys (Star Wars, Marvel and DC superheroes, Nightmare Before Christmas, etc.), Halloween masks, Palladium collectibles, proofreader copies, hardcover Printer Proofs, and more, all on sale at the moment, at various discounts through December 11. Alex and I will try to add new collectibles, negatives, and items, but we are so swamped. Check it out at: http://stores.ebay.com/kevinstoys-artandcollectibles

NOTE: Getting orders in time for Christmas without paying extra for express shipping requires you to have placed your order no later than December 15 – sooner is better! That applies to most methods of shipping EXCEPT Media Mail. Using Media Mail from this point forward there is only a 50/50 chance of getting the package in time for Christmas. Please see our detailed Holiday Shipping Guideline elsewhere in this Update.

TMNT & Other Strangeness Redux Pre-Order Store

News! TMNT & Other Strangeness Pre-Order Store. There is now a link on the front page of the Palladium website to the TMNT & Other Strangeness Pre-Order Store (as well as below). Please note that these products will not ship until 2025. The advantage to placing your pre-order before March 2025 is that you will get the items at the lower Kickstarter price. For example, you save $10 on each of the two color cover volumes of the two main books, because the final retail price will be higher than the current Kickstarter price. Moreover, Sean Owen Roberson has outdone himself on the Redux editions. Clear and concise rules clarifications, new and helpful tables and charts, sweet layout, gorgeous color art, and so much more.

COMING Soon! The Valley of the Pharoahs RPG! Waaaay back when, Palladium Books published the Valley of Pharaohs RPG as a box game. Well, 40 years later, I gave the author, my pal Matthew Balent (best known for Weapons & Armor, Weapons & Castles, Weapons & Castles of the Orient, etc.), permission to reuse my artwork in his brand new, vastly expanded redux edition of the original game. It is a big 200+ page RPG. (The original was only 64 or 96 pages plus a dozen maps and diagrams.) I can’t wait to see it. I have purchased a few dozen of the softcover and hardcover editions to put up in the Palladium online store to help support my dear and long-time friend’s efforts and because I know some of you will want to buy a copy. I think the softcover edition will arrive in a couple weeks. Not sure when the hardcover will arrive.

History of Palladium Books on YouTube

News! Palladium Books® YouTube Channel offers the Official History of Palladium Books – Here’s what you can expect:

  • Kevin Siembieda’s career as an artist

  • The Origins of the Palladium System

  • The Mechanoid Trilogy

  • December 5 – Palladium’s Weapons & Armor series

  • December 19 – Palladium Fantasy RPG

  • January Week One – A Tale of the Defilers (stories about Kevin’s legendary Palladium of Desires fantasy campaign that inspired him to start Palladium Books).

  • With much more to follow! A new episode goes up every other week with the occasional bonus episode in between. Many more chats are coming. Each one a friendly and candid conversation that people are loving. J-M Defoggi and I, Kevin Siembieda, reveal the origins and inside story behind the creation of your favorite Palladium role-playing games and sourcebooks. Presented in rough chronological order.

News! The Glitterbois podcasts – I know gamers are loving the Glitterbois’ podcasts (and Palladium’s YouTube videos, and our chats on Legion of Myth) because so many of you are telling us how much fun they are and that you want more. They talk about all things Palladium Books and include chats with me (Kevin Siembieda) about the origins and history of Palladium Books, my thought process behind Palladium’s many game lines and specific book titles, and other fun topics. These podcasts always cover additional details and memories about Palladium’s history and iconic games than Palladium’s official YouTube material. More fun conversations are coming.

News! What’s hot at Palladium this week – Hmmm, pretty much everything thanks to the big Black Friday sale that just ended and the Surprise Package offer, but we are suddenly seeing renewed interest in Chaos Earth®, Heroes Unlimited, Ninjas & Superspies, After the Bomb® RPG and sourcebooks, Dead Reign® (Zombies), Systems Failure RPG, and of course, lots of Rifts® and Palladium Fantasy® sales. It’s funny how all of a sudden we’ll see a particular series pick up steam in a certain week for no particular reason of which we are aware. Thank you for your wonderful support and keep the orders coming. Remember, to get your Christmas Surprise Package in time for the holidays, you need to order so soon!

Palladium Christmas Surprise Packages

Only 2 Weeks Till Christmas to get Palladium’s Christmas Surprise Package offer – sale ENDS December 24

Don’t miss out on truly the best deal in gaming and remember you need to allow at least 3-5 days for shipping to get any package in time for Christmas/Kwanzaa/Hanukkah – do not delay!


$100+ worth of goodies (often more) for $60 (plus shipping). Books are signed if you want them to be. It is just 2½ weeks till Christmas, Kwanzaa, and Hanukkah! Less when you account for the time to process and ship orders, so this weekend and the next are the perfect time to order yours in time for the holidays without having to pay for an express delivery. The Surprise Package Offer ends December 24, 2024.


A great gift for any holiday, birthdays, anniversaries, or a nice treat for yourself (you deserve it!), or a way to try new settings, and fill your collection. After these past four crazy years, you deserve to do something nice for yourself and your gaming pals. The Surprise Package Offer gets you physical game books at PDF prices, and we will sign them if you would like us to. See what other fans are saying in the comment section, below. Enjoy and happy holidays.


You get a ton of stuff on the cheap, you can get a bunch of autographs (if you want ‘em), and you look like you spent a fortune. This is also a great way to try that game setting you’ve wondered about – Splicers®, Dead Reign®, Chaos Earth®, Palladium Fantasy®, Nightbane®, Systems Failure, Mechanoid Invasion®, Rifts®, After the Bomb®, etc. – or to get something for your favorite Game Master. Or perhaps, to get your player group to consider a new game or setting.


Please spread the word. The Christmas Surprise Package is only publicized by word of mouth, on Palladium’s website, and social media, so please tell everyone you know. Buy one for every gamer you know. They make astonishing gifts for every occasion.

Shipping Guidelines – Only 2 weeks to Christmas – order now

Whether you are buying a Surprise Package or a regular order, if you need it in time for Christmas, please order sooner than later to avoid needing to pay for express service or the package not arriving in time for Christmas. Take comfort in your gifts arriving before December 25 with these key ship-by dates. The closer you get to Christmas/Kwanzaa/Hanukkah, the more we recommend UPS as the most reliable method of shipping.


– United States Postal Service: Media Mail – December 9th so order NOW! Media Mail is a low priority mail service so orders placed after December 9th cannot be assured of delivery in time for Christmas; they may or may not. Last year, mail delivery was very good, but we cannot guarantee delivery in time for Christmas when you use Media Mail after December 9th. Moreover, YOU assume ALL risk when you ship via Media Mail. If an order arrives late, goes missing, or is damaged in transit, it will NOT be replaced by Palladium Books.


– United States Postal Service (in USA): Ground Advantage – December 17th.


– United States Postal Service (in USA): Priority Mail – December 18th.


– United States Postal Service (in USA): Priority Mail EXPRESS (expensive) – December 19th.


– UPS Ground (anywhere in the contiguous USA) – December 15. Last year, UPS was astonishing in its speed and accuracy of shipping. After that date, all bets are off.


– UPS 3-Day Select – December 17th, but you will pay for expedited shipping.


– UPS 2nd Day Air – December 18th, but you will pay for expedited shipping.


– UPS Next Day Air – December 19th (to arrive December 24, Christmas Eve) – Palladium Needs that order submitted by December 19th, so we can pack and ship it December 20th to arrive Monday, Christmas Eve, but please don’t cut it that close or pay such a high price for expedited shipping.


– No shipments to Canada! – Until the Canadian postal workers end the strike, we cannot ship to Canada. Moreover, orders shipped just prior to the strike may be sitting in limbo.


– To our friends overseas – December 5 with no guarantee that the package will arrive by Christmas. Even NOW, we cannot guarantee delivery in time for Christmas. Your package should arrive in time, but if there are delays at Customs, work strikes, bad weather, etc., it might miss. Order as soon as possible. Note: Right now, we are finding overseas packages are taking 15-30 days to arrive, sometimes longer! Cost Saver: A Surprise Package mitigates overseas shipping costs – take advantage of this while you can. It is, in effect, the equivalent of getting the books you want at retail, plus autographs, and paying the equivalent of only $20-$40 for overseas shipping! MANY overseas customers take advantage of the Surprise Packages for this reason! And it is likely the ONLY way for you to get autographs. Give it a try, we don’t think you will be disappointed.


– Any orders placed after these dates may arrive in time for Christmas but we cannot guarantee it AND you should assume they will NOT arrive in time for Christmas. Please spread the word and place those orders as soon as you can. Ho, ho, ho and happy holidays.


– 2024 Shipping Note: Please make sure your address is complete and correct! As always, at Palladium, we will be working overtime and doing everything we can to process orders as fast as possible to get them to you for the holidays. However, after the package leaves the Palladium warehouse, delivery is out of our hands. As we get closer to Christmas, UPS Ground and Priority Mail will be your most reliable and timely methods of shipping. Thank you for your understanding.

Notebook and Pen Sets

NEW – 3 Notebook & Pen Sets

If you’re looking for the perfect stocking stuffer or a fun practical gift, we have three for you.

NEW! Rifts® Unleash Your Imagination Blue Notebook & Pen Set

  • Black ink pen with comfortable, “soft touch” finish.

  • Matching 80 page, ruled paper notepad with matching color ribbon bookmark.

  • Pocket-size 3 ½ by 5 ½ inches to slip nicely into a back pocket or purse.

  • $9.99 per set – Cat. No. 2618 – available now.

NEW! Palladium Books® Live the Fantasy Black Notebook & Pen Set

  • Black ink pen with comfortable, “soft touch” finish.

  • Matching 80 page, ruled paper notepad with matching color ribbon bookmark.

  • Pocket-size 3 ½ by 5 ½ inches to slip nicely into a back pocket or purse.

  • $9.99 per set – Cat. No. 2619 – available now.

New! Heroes Unlimited™ Unleash Your Power Red Notebook & Pen Set

  • Black ink pen with comfortable, “soft touch” finish.

  • Matching 80 page, ruled paper notepad with matching color ribbon bookmark.

  • Pocket-size 3 ½ by 5 ½ inches to slip nicely into a back pocket or purse.

  • $9.99 per set – Cat. No. 2620 – available now.

NEW! Nightbane® Automated Character Sheet


Now available on DriveThruRPG.com – The Nightbane Automated Character Sheet follows a similar format as the popular Rifts® Automated Character Sheet designed by Greg Diaczyk.

  • Microsoft Excel-based system for creating, updating, and tracking your Nightbane RPG characters quickly and easily. Once you know the system, you can have characters up and ready in 10-15 minutes!

  • Create your human Facade and Nightbane Morphus in minutes.

  • Offers a vast range of Morphus choices.

  • Select from scores of Common and Elite Nightbane Talents.

  • Spells, psionics, and more.

  • $5.00 – Available now on DriveThruRPG.com and coming soon on PalladiumBooks.com – Created by Greg Diaczyk.

300+ RPG products on DriveThru – a dozen unique world settings – one game system – endless possibilities. No other game company offers game worlds for so many different genres. Best of all, learn to play one Palladium RPG and you can play them all, because each uses the same basic core rules and combat. There are differences, but the fundamentals are the same. This also means you can bring characters, villains, monsters, powers, magic, weapons, gear, and adventure ideas from one setting into another or mash them together!


In addition to PDF titles for entire game lines like Rifts®, Palladium Fantasy®, Heroes Unlimited™, Ninjas & Superspies™, After the Bomb®, Beyond the Supernatural™, Dead Reign® (zombies), Nightbane® (Urban Fantasy), Rifts Chaos Earth®, Systems Failure™, Splicers®, RECON®, The Rifter® #1-85, and others, there are Game Master and player aids, character generators, paper minis, map packs, and FREE Previews of books like Creature Feature™, Dead Reign, Coalition Manhunters, Titan Robotics™, Rifts Bestiary Volume One, World Books, Dimension Books, and more to give you a glimpse of what’s in the book. Enjoy endless adventures across the Megaverse®.

Palladium Collectibles – at Kevin’s Online Toy & Collectibles eBay Store

I am adding new collectibles of all kinds to my Ebay store in time for the holiday season. Some are Palladium negatives, rare and out of print books, original Palladium artwork, prints, posters, as well as other collectible toys, action figures, Nightmare Before Christmas items, one-of-a-kind proofreader copies, books, and other good stuff – including Erick Wujcik’s rare and sought after Amberzine #12-15. Check in every week or so to see what’s new. All items come from Kevin Siembieda’s personal collection.


One-of-a-kind Palladium Books negatives (special and rare collectibles). Negatives are always very popular items at the Palladium Open House, Gen Con, and conventions, and are catching on as rare collectibles, unique in and of themselves. Before digital printing, pages of a book were laid out by hand on a board, and each page was photographed.

  • Each negative is truly unique, attractive, and fun to have.

  • Own a piece of Palladium Books and RPG history you will treasure.

  • Each was used to print the very book you may have in your collection (1981-2004).

  • Each is signed in silver ink by Kevin Siembieda and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity.

  • Each negative is a one-of-a-kind work of art (on rare occasions, two-of-a-kind if a page or section of pages were replaced or a second edition was made).

  • Looks great matted or framed! Fits an 8×10 inch matt opening. Each neg is roughly 8 ½ x 11 inches.

  • Prices vary depending on the title, the art, and quality of the negative. Note: Many have scratches, or blemishes, and/or an opaque medium on the negative. Still, they look great and are a piece of RPG history. We recommend you carefully examine the photographs of each item to avoid disappointment. The negatives of many books are sold out or were never available.

CLOSING THOUGHTS

A special thank you to our fans


I want to thank all of you who love and support not just Palladium Books, but me and the Palladium crew. We have gotten numerous emails and Surprise Package comments that are generous, sweet, and heartwarming. Many have offered condolences regarding the passing of my beautiful Kathy Simmons and encourage me to stay the course. There have also been countless holiday greetings, warm wishes, and wonderful stories and comments about how much our games, and my writing in particular, mean to people.


We appreciate every one of these friendly and kind correspondences. It’s beautiful to know how much our games have meant to you, inspired you, and helped so many of you in various and mindboggling ways. Sean and I and the entire Palladium staff see that as a miracle and a blessing. Not many people get to make a difference in this crazy world let alone bring so many people so much joy. If that’s not a miracle, I don’t know what is. For me it’s amazing, humbling, and pure magic – a wondrous gift that makes me proud and fills me with joy and more ideas that I want to share with you as RPG books. We have so many new games and sourcebooks planned for you in the years ahead. Some of which you’ll begin to see in 2025.


Many of you are only recently learning about the unexpected death of Kathy Simmons this March (sudden heart attack). She was dear to everyone at Palladium, not just me, so her passing affected everyone deeply. We all appreciate your kind words of condolence and fond memories of her. There is no reason to apologize for only now reaching out to us, because she is on our minds and missed every single day. Besides, your thoughts and prayers are always welcomed anytime and in the future.


I won’t lie to you, losing Kathy was devastating to me, her family, and the guys, but we are getting through it as best we can. Kathy was my life partner and best friend, so her absence this holiday season is rough, but I have amazing friends, like you, to help me through it. To quote the singer Jelly Roll, “I’m not okay, but I’ll be alright.” We all emotionally heal a little bit more every day. Thankfully, Kathy was so sweet and caring that my memories of her are joyful and funny. We made each other laugh all the time. In fact, it’s the little things that make me smile (and miss her) most. But as another dear, departed friend, Erick Wujcik, would always say, “It’s all good.”


I’m mentioning this, because I want you to know that your kind words and support of me, the guys, and Palladium Books not only matter, but are noticed and deeply appreciated. They make a difference in our lives and help us get through difficult days. Thank you, each and every one of you.


Now fire up your imaginations and start a game soon. Don’t forget to snag a Surprise Package or one of our new logo T-shirts, matching mugs, or cool notebook & pen sets. Most importantly, let the people you care about know how much they mean to you. A card, a phone call, an email or text message means more than you may imagine. Otherwise, be silly, be happy, be thankful, and hold the people and things that bring you joy close, especially during the holidays. And know that we appreciate you and wish you the very best from Palladiumville, located south of Christmas Town and across from Halloween Town. Ho, ho, ho.


– Kevin Siembieda, Publisher, Game Designer, Friend, and Surrogate Santa

Surprise Package Comments from fans like you

Every year we like to post a selection of the comments we get from Surprise Package customers. It’s a nice acknowledgement and thank you to them (you know who you are) and you enjoy reading them. I read each and every comment that comes in the Surprise Packages, and they always brighten our day. We all appreciate your kind words, suggestions, and insights. In fact, the idea to do hardcover editions of core rule books came from fan comments in the Grab Bags. We get a lot so we can only offer a sampling of these comments in the Weekly Updates.


Our heartfelt thanks to all of you who have stuck with Palladium through thick and thin and now these new strange times. Please use our games to find escape from your day to day grind and worries. Use them to bring a little joy, laughter, and adventure to the holiday season and beyond.


Your comments and support mean the world to all of us. Thank you for making us smile and feel valued. As always, I have tried to write a short response [in brackets] to each comment. Happy holidays.


– Kevin Siembieda (and the Palladium Crew)

J.J. in San Antonio, Texas, writes: Favorites: Rifts® and Chaos Earth®. Thanks so much for the last Surprise Package. It was so much more than I was expecting.


[You are very welcome, J.J., we aim to please. This is our way of saying thank you to our fans and bringing some Christmas cheer to our gaming community. Happy Holidays. – Kevin]



J.C. in St. Clair Shores, Michigan, writes: I haven’t found a game you guys make that I haven’t enjoyed. I’d have to say my top favorites are a three way tie between Palladium Fantasy, Heroes Unlimited, and Rifts®. Keep making games!


[I love it, J.C., and we will keep making great games for as long as we can. – Kevin]



M.R. in Mission, Kansas, writes: I buy a Christmas Surprise Package every year as a Christmas gift to myself. I have been reading the content for over 20 years. Even though I play other game systems with friends, Palladium’s writing, content, setting, and commitment to a quality product is second to none. Thanks for all you do. Merry Christmas.


[Merry Christmas and happy new year to you, M.R., I hope the Surprise Package makes you smile. We appreciate your support all these years. – Kevin]



S.S. in Bend, Oregon, writes: Thank you again for these Surprise Packages. The Surprise Packages have been a great way for me to rebuild my collection. Cheers.


[The Surprise Package are great for many things, S.S., rebuilding collections, replacing worn out books, trying a new setting, a treat for yourself, and, of course, as gifts for the holidays, birthdays, anniversaries, Valentine’s Day, and any gift-giving occasion. Enjoy and happy holidays. – Kevin]



M.H. in Redondo Beach, California, writes: As a permanent G.M. of Palladium Fantasy for over 30 years, I just love Palladium Books. My old group of buddies are searching for the chalices of Dragonwright as we speak! Looking forward to the future for Fantasy. Hoping for some surprises with future books! Kevin and Sean and the team, you guys rock. Happy holidays!


[Thank you, M.H., we appreciate your kind words. Fear not, we have big plans and cool surprises coming for Palladium Fantasy over the next several years. Bwahaha. Um, I mean, good stuff is coming. Happy holidays. – Kevin]



S.C. in Mesa, Arizona, writes: Favorites: Rifts® and Heroes Unlimited. Thank you all for making such awesome RPGs. Keep up the good work and I look forward to what’s to come.


[Will do, S.C., and we have some amazing stuff that is coming, not the least of which includes Yin-Sloth Expeditions, Rifts® Bestiary Vol. 2, Rifts® Antarctica, and so much more! Merry Christmas and happy new year. – Kevin]



B.W. in Chandler, Arizona, writes (in part): And here we are for Surprise Package #3. Thank you for everything so far. I am far behind in reading everything, but I love getting the new books and flipping through all of the great art and tasting the amazing creativity running through them by reading random bits that catch my interest.


[Welcome back for Grab Bag number three, B.W., glad you’re loving everything being sent your way. We aim to please. – Kevin]



A.W. in Brownville, Texas, writes (in part): I am rebuilding my Rifts® collection from 27 years ago. Rifts® has always been my favorite setting and has influenced my gaming from teenage years. Kevin (and your team), your lore and imagination and tenacity for this industry and what could be, helped to spark mine and has helped me to push my storytelling with friends to amazing places and life long relationships … I can’t imagine my life without RPG’s, and you helped shape this industry then and today.


[A.W., wow, thank you for your generous and humbling words of praise. I love what I do, and I do it with people I love, and it is that passion that takes our games to the next level. We love the world building and role-playing in these games and enjoy pushing the envelope to inspire you and others. Sean and I greatly appreciate your recognition of Palladium’s role in helping to shape the RPG (and videogame) industry with our storytelling, lore, and art. Please keep your imagination burning bright and game on. – Kevin]



S.M.H. in Springfield, Virginia, writes (in part): Favorites: Rifts® and Heroes Unlimited. Totally loving Kevin’s interview series on the Glitterbois podcast and cannot wait for the TMNT Kickstarter to ship.


[S.M.H., we can’t wait to ship the TMNT Kickstarter items either. The Fanroll dice are at the printer, everything else is getting wrapped up. Folks seem to be enjoying all the interview series we are doing: the Glitterbois, Legion of Myth, and the video chats on the Palladium Books YouTube channel. – Kevin]



M.B. in Enoch, Utah, writes: Love what you guys do. Been playing Palladium for years. By far the most immersive system I’ve played. Keep up the good work. Love listening to Kevin on Legion of Myth.


[Thanks, M.B. for the kind words and all the love. That works out well because we love making the games you love. I’m enjoying talking about the creative process and the history of Palladium Books. Game on. – Kevin]



R.O. in Wichita, Kansas, writes (in part): It’s been a pleasure running Rifts® games for years now … I recently had my Rifts Group travel to Chaos Earth and fight the Millenium Bugs from Systems Failure …


[What a great idea, R.O., very cool. That’s the beauty of the Palladium Megaversal system, you can weave and blend anything and everything. I love it. Happy holidays! – Kevin]

5 Thanksgiving Day Sales Start Now – Palladium Books® Weekly Update – November 27, 2024

Written by pb_addy on . Posted in Weekly Updates.

Weekly Update

ONE GAME SYSTEM – EVERY GENRE – COUNTLESS WORLDS – ENDLESS ADVENTURE

BY KEVIN SIEMBIEDA

5 Thanksgiving Day Sales Start Now  – Palladium Books® Weekly Update – November 27, 2024

Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!


I hope you are all happy, healthy, and able to spend some time relaxing this Thanksgiving weekend with family and friends. Or maybe you’ll curl up on the couch and watch your favorite sporting events and/or holiday season movies. If you’re like me, you’ll be doing a bunch of online and in store shopping to get Black Friday and Cyber-Monday deals. Please don’t forget about lil’ ol’ Palladium Books and our five sales, all of which are available to you right now (see details below) and run the whole weekend and into Cyber-Wednesday!


I have a lot for which to be thankful, starting with you, our fans. Thank you for being the greatest fans on the planet. You make our days brighter, fuller, and filled with love. We try to do the same for you, especially during the holiday season, so enjoy the 5 sales detailed below, try not to overeat, and have fun reading the new Surprise Package Comments From Fans Like You at the end of this email. We love ‘em. Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours from all of us at Palladium Books.

5 Big Thanksgiving, Black Friday & Cyber-Monday Sales available now! Enjoy.

SALE #1 – Palladium’s Thanksgiving, Black Friday & Cyber-Monday SALE – now thru Wednesday, December 4th – 30% discount


The majority of the following game lines are on sale at big savings, while supplies last. RUE and select hardcovers are also part of the sale. Note: Get much bigger savings but less certainty with the Surprise Package offer (see #2 below).

  • Rifts® Ultimate Edition Hardcover (Cat. No. 800HC) and most Rifts® World Books and sourcebooks all 30% off.

  • Phase World® and most Dimension Books all 30% off (excludes Secrets of the Atlanteans; almost sold out).

  • Rifts® Chaos Earth® RPG Hardcover and sourcebooks all 30% off.

  • Palladium Fantasy RPG® 1st (Cat. No. 449HC) and 2nd Edition (Cat. No. 450HC) Hardcovers and most Fantasy sourcebooks all 30% off (excludes Dragons & Gods; almost sold out).

  • Dead Reign® the Zombie Apocalypse RPG and all sourcebooks 30% off.

  • Nightbane® Hardcover RPG (Cat. No. 730HC) and all sourcebooks 30% off.

  • Heroes Unlimited™ RPG and most sourcebooks all 30% off (excludes Powers Unlimited #1, almost sold out).

  • After the Bomb® RPG and all mutant sourcebooks 30% off. Create mutant animal super-heroes using the After the Bomb® RPG and sourcebooks for the standalone post-apocalyptic setting or combine it with Heroes Unlimited™, Ninjas & Superspies or TMNT & Other Strangeness RPG Redux editions (coming in 2025), or use them to create animalistic Nightbane or D-Bees in Rifts®, or Frankenstein lab creations for Beyond the Supernatural, or as aliens from other worlds and dimensions for Phase World® or any appropriate setting. Unleash your imagination.

  • Sale runs now thru Wednesday, December 4. Please spread the word.

SALE #2 – Christmas Surprise Package offer now through December 24


The best deal in gaming – $100+ worth of goodies (often more) for $60 (plus shipping). Books are signed if you want them to be. It is just 3 weeks till Christmas, Kwanzaa, and Hanukkah! Less when you account for the time to process and ship orders, so this weekend and the next are the perfect time to order yours in time for the holidays without having to pay for an express delivery. The Surprise Package Offer ends December 24, 2024.


A great gift for any holiday, birthdays, anniversaries, or a nice treat for yourself (you deserve it!), or a way to try new settings, and fill your collection. After these past four crazy years, you deserve to do something nice for yourself and your gaming pals. The Surprise Package Offer gets you physical game books at PDF prices, and we will sign them if you would like us to. See what other fans are saying in the comment section, below. Enjoy and happy holidays.


You get a ton of stuff on the cheap, you can get a bunch of autographs (if you want ‘em), and you look like you spent a fortune. This is also a great way to try that game setting you’ve wondered about – Splicers®, Dead Reign®, Chaos Earth®, Palladium Fantasy®, Nightbane®, Systems Failure, Mechanoid Invasion®, Rifts®, After the Bomb®, etc. – or to get something for your favorite Game Master. Or perhaps, to get your player group to consider a new game or setting.


Please spread the word. The Christmas Surprise Package is only publicized by word of mouth, on Palladium’s website, and social media, so please tell everyone you know. Buy one for every gamer you know. They make astonishing gifts for every occasion.

SALE #3 – Palladium Fantasy Bundle of Holding – 16 PDF books for about $2.20 each – incredible savings – now thru Monday


$35 gets you $196.50 worth of PDF Fantasy books. This includes the core rule book and 15 other Palladium Fantasy PDF books! Insane savings and a great way to start, or add to, your PDF reference library.


For just $17.95 you get all six PDF titles in this revived offer’s Starter Collection (retail value $71.50) as DRM-free ebooks, including the complete Palladium Fantasy RPG 2E core rulebook, the sourcebooks Mysteries of Magic: Heart of Magic, Monsters and Animals and Dragons & Gods, and the introductory setting sourcebooks The Western Empire and Library of Bletherad.


But if you pay more than the threshold price of $34.96 (at the time of this writing) – you’ll level up and also get the Bonus Collection of 10 more PDF Palladium Fantasy sourcebooks worth an additional $125. Including Wolfen Empire, Eastern Territory, Land of the Damned 1 – Chaos Lands and 2 – Eternal Torment, Mount Nimro, Baalgor Wastelands, Northern Hinterlands, Bizantium and the Northern Islands, Old Ones 2E, and Adventures on the High Seas 2E.


Available now through Black Friday and Cyber-Monday – but order before the holiday rush so you don’t forget! Oh, and most of our other PDF books are on sale at DriveThruRPG (see Sale #4 below).

What’s that? You don’t use the Palladium game system? That’s okay, because you can easily adapt it to any edition of D&D or other fantasy game. The unique character classes, monsters, magic, weapons, magic items, locations, and adventures are easy to adapt and surprise your players with things they are not expecting.


Please tell everyone about the Bundle and help new gamers discover the fun and depth of the Palladium Fantasy setting. Snag one for yourself and then, please, spread the word far and wide.

Sale #4 – DriveThruRPG.com Black Friday-Cyber-Monday sale – now thru Monday


Hundreds of Palladium Books PDF editions are on sale now thru Cyber-Monday – The Rifter, Rifts, Heroes Unlimited, Nightbane, Dead Reign, and many more. Sounds like time to build your digital library for quick, easy searches and reference. And don’t miss out on the Fantasy Bundle of Holding (see Sale #3 above). Happy holidays.

SALE #5 – Kevin’s Toys, Art and Collectibles SALE – now through December 11, 2024


Negatives at half price, plus toys (Star Wars, Marvel and DC superheroes, etc.), Palladium collectibles, and a variety of proofreader copies, hardcover Printer Proofs, and more, all on sale now through December 11. And we are adding new collectibles, negatives, and items through the weekend. Check it out at: http://stores.ebay.com/kevinstoys-artandcollectibles

Shipping Guidelines – Only 3 weeks to Christmas – order now – Sunday is December 1st

Whether you are buying a Surprise Package or a regular order, if you need it in time for Christmas, please order sooner than later to avoid needing to pay for express service or the package not arriving in time for Christmas. Take comfort in your gifts arriving before December 25 with these key ship-by dates. The closer you get to Christmas/Kwanzaa/Hanukkah, the more we recommend UPS as the most reliable method of shipping.

– United States Postal Service: Media Mail – December 9th so order NOW! Media Mail is a low priority mail service so orders placed after December 9th cannot be assured of delivery in time for Christmas; they may or may not. Last year, mail delivery was very good, but we cannot guarantee delivery in time for Christmas when you use Media Mail after December 9th. Moreover, YOU assume ALL risk when you ship via Media Mail. If an order arrives late, goes missing, or is damaged in transit, it will NOT be replaced by Palladium Books.


– United States Postal Service (in USA): Ground Advantage – December 17th.


– United States Postal Service (in USA): Priority Mail – December 18th.


– United States Postal Service (in USA): Priority Mail EXPRESS (expensive) – December 19th.


– UPS Ground (anywhere in the contiguous USA) – December 15. Last year, UPS was astonishing in its speed and accuracy of shipping. After that date, all bets are off.


– UPS 3-Day Select – December 17th, but you will pay for expedited shipping.


– UPS 2nd Day Air – December 18th, but you will pay for expedited shipping.


– UPS Next Day Air – December 19th (to arrive December 24, Christmas Eve) – Palladium Needs that order submitted by December 19th, so we can pack and ship it December 20th to arrive Monday, Christmas Eve, but please don’t cut it that close or pay such a high price for expedited shipping.


– To our friends in Canada and overseas – December 5 with no guarantee that the package will arrive by Christmas. We suggest ordering no later than December 2, but SOONER is better, and even NOW, we cannot guarantee delivery in time for Christmas. Your package should arrive in time, but if there are delays at Customs, work strikes, bad weather, etc., it might miss. Order as soon as possible. Note: Right now, we are finding overseas packages are taking 15-30 days to arrive, sometimes longer! Cost Saver: A Surprise Package mitigates overseas shipping costs – take advantage of this while you can. It is, in effect, the equivalent of getting the books you want at retail, plus autographs, and paying the equivalent of only $10-$30 for overseas shipping! MANY overseas customers take advantage of the Surprise Packages for this reason! And it is likely the ONLY way for you to get autographs. Give it a try, we don’t think you will be disappointed.


– Any orders placed after these dates may arrive in time for Christmas but we cannot guarantee it AND you should assume they will NOT arrive in time for Christmas. Please spread the word and place those orders as soon as you can. Ho, ho, ho and happy holidays.


– 2024 Shipping Note: Please make sure your address is complete and correct! As always, at Palladium, we will be working overtime and doing everything we can to process orders as fast as possible to get them to you for the holidays. However, after the package leaves the Palladium warehouse, delivery is out of our hands. As we get closer to Christmas, UPS Ground and Priority Mail will be your most reliable and timely methods of shipping. Thank you for your understanding.

FUN! Surprise Package Comments can be found at the end of the Update. Every holiday season, I (Kevin) share a selection of Surprise Package comments from gamers like you. I do so to give a shout out for their (and your) support and because I know many of you enjoy reading them nearly as much as we do. We can’t post them all, but we share as many as we can. They are located at the end of each Weekly Update.

TMNT & Other Strangeness Redux Pre-Order Store

News! TMNT & Other Strangeness Pre-Order Store. There is now a link on the front page of the Palladium website to the TMNT & Other Strangeness Pre-Order Store (as well as below). Please note that these products will not ship until 2025. The advantage to placing your pre-order before March, 2025, is that you will get the items at the lower Kickstarter price. For example, you save $10 on each of the two color cover volumes of the two main books, because the final retail price will be higher than the current Kickstarter price. Moreover, Sean Owen Roberson has outdone himself on the Redux editions. Clear and concise rules clarifications, new and helpful tables and charts, sweet layout, gorgeous color art, and so much more.

News! TMNT & Other Strangeness Backers who have not yet filled out the Backerkit fulfillment survey with your ship to addresses, etc., please do so. There are a few hundred of you who have not done it yet and you cannot receive your pledge rewards unless you have filled it out. We fear some of you may have had our many reminders blocked by filters. Click here to take care of it now!

News! Rifts® for Savage Worlds: Europa Kickstarter by Pinnacle Entertainment is in full swing! Even if you don’t use the Savage Worlds game system you may want to check it out. Why? Because it fills in the blanks about Rifts® Europe (Italy, Germany, France, England, Scandinavia, etc.) as of 109 PA. This is ALL “official” world and source material authorized and approved by Palladium Books (specifically Sean Roberson and Kevin Siembieda). Which means you can easily adapt the world information, gear, maps, adventures, and more into your Palladium Rifts campaign or start a new one. Learn more by clicking the link below to see the Rifts® Europa Kickstarter preview page. Game on and enjoy.

History of Palladium Books on YouTube

News! Palladium Books® YouTube Channel offers the Official History of Palladium Books – Here’s what’s coming:

  • November 21 – The Mechanoid Trilogy

  • December 5 – Palladium’s Weapons & Armor series

  • December 19 – Palladium Fantasy RPG


A new episode goes up every other week with the occasional bonus episode in between. Many more chats are coming. Each one a friendly and candid conversation that people are loving. J-M Defoggi and I, Kevin Siembieda, reveal the origins and inside story behind the creation of your favorite Palladium role-playing games and sourcebooks. Presented in rough chronological order.

News! Glitterbois podcasts are offering a series of conversations about the origins of, and thought process behind, Palladium’s many game lines and specific books. These podcasts always cover additional details and memories about the games and Palladium’s history. More fun times.

News! What’s hot at Palladium this week – Rifts® and Palladium Fantasy® remain sizzling hot and Fantasy has gotten even hotter with the Palladium Fantasy 2nd Edition Bundle of Holding super-sale happening through Cyber-Monday. Thank you for your support and keep the orders coming. Remember to order your Christmas Surprise Package in time for the holidays.

Notebook and Pen Sets

NEW – 3 Notebook & Pen Sets

If you’re looking for the perfect stocking stuffer or a fun practical gift, we have three for you.

NEW! Rifts® Unleash Your Imagination Blue Notebook & Pen Set

  • Black ink pen with comfortable, “soft touch” finish.

  • Matching 80 page, ruled paper notepad with matching color ribbon bookmark.

  • Pocket-size 3 ½ by 5 ½ inches to slip nicely into a back pocket or purse.

  • $9.99 per set – Cat. No. 2618 – available now.

NEW! Palladium Books® Live the Fantasy Black Notebook & Pen Set

  • Black ink pen with comfortable, “soft touch” finish.

  • Matching 80 page, ruled paper notepad with matching color ribbon bookmark.

  • Pocket-size 3 ½ by 5 ½ inches to slip nicely into a back pocket or purse.

  • $9.99 per set – Cat. No. 2619 – available now.

New! Heroes Unlimited™ Unleash Your Power Red Notebook & Pen Set

  • Black ink pen with comfortable, “soft touch” finish.

  • Matching 80 page, ruled paper notepad with matching color ribbon bookmark.

  • Pocket-size 3 ½ by 5 ½ inches to slip nicely into a back pocket or purse.

  • $9.99 per set – Cat. No. 2620 – available now.

Palladium Fantasy Bundle of Holding

NEW! 2 Palladium Fantasy 2E – Second Edition (current rules) Bundle of Holding – for epic fantasy adventures – available now

The Palladium Fantasy RPG® 2nd Edition Bundle of Holding was such a smash hit in 2022 that Allen Varney is bringing it back with a couple extra books added for good measure. And just in time for the holidays. A great way to build your PDF library on the cheap, we recommend you get both the Starter and the Bonus Collections, because you will never get these titles at a better discount than this! The Palladium Fantasy Bundle is available now and runs through Black Friday and Cyber-Monday – but order before the holiday rush so you don’t forget!


For those of you new to the Bundles of Holding, you get huge savings on these PDF titles whenever you “buy in.” However, the biggest savings are during the first couple weeks of the offer. Ah, but a Bundle of Holding is always a big bargain no matter when you buy in, even on the last day!


What’s that? You don’t use the Palladium game system? That’s okay, because you can easily adapt it to any edition of D&D or other fantasy game. The unique character classes, monsters, magic, weapons, magic items, locations, and adventures are easy to adapt and surprise your players with things they are not expecting.


Please tell everyone about the Bundles and help new gamers discover the fun and depth of the Palladium Fantasy setting. Snag one for yourself and then, please, spread the word far and wide.


Everything you need to launch a sprawling campaign using the current 2nd Edition FRPG rules. Hundreds of spells, human and inhuman player characters, magic items, monsters, heroes, 100,000 years of history in a unique world, and adventures galore all presented with Palladium’s trademark depth of story.


https://bundleofholding.com/presents/2024Palladium2E


2E STARTER Collection (US $17.95 – total retail value $71.50)

  • Palladium Fantasy RPG®, 2nd Edition ($13.50)

  • Dragons & Gods ($12.50)

  • Monsters & Animals ($12.50)

  • Mysteries of Magic 1: The Heart of Magic ($9)

  • The Western Empire ($13)

  • Library of Bletherad ($11; epic source for adventure)

Total PDF retail value of $71.50, all for only $17.95!


2E BONUS Collection (threshold starts at US $32.95 – retail $125 more for a total of $196.50!):

Gets you everything in the Starter Collection plus PDFs of …

  • Old Ones 2E ($12.50)

  • Adventures on the High Seas 2E ($12.50)

  • Wolfen Empire ($11)

  • Eastern Territory ($13)

  • Land of the Damned 1 – Chaos Lands ($13)

  • Land of the Damned 2 – Eternal Torment ($13)

  • Mount Nimro ($11)

  • Baalgor Wastelands ($13)

  • Northern Hinterlands ($13)

  • Bizantium and the Northern Islands ($13)

If you have never played Palladium Fantasy® 2nd Edition, it is epic, and the Starter and Bonus Collections give you plenty to get rolling. Also easily adaptable to D&D and other fantasy settings.


If you are a long time Palladium Fantasy® fan, you get the Second Edition RPG and other “core” books to have available as a digital reference for your current games. Build your PDF reference library on the cheap via the Bundle of Holding. And the sooner the better, because as more people buy, the price goes up, but it’s always an exceptional bargain.


The Palladium Fantasy 2E Bundle will END on December 2, 2024 at 11 PM Pacific Time – don’t miss out on this limited time offer!


Again, please spread the word and tell everybody about these PDF bundles. All PDF bundles are hosted in association with OneBookShelf, DriveThruRPG’s parent company, and you get your PDF bundle added directly into your DriveThruRPG library. What? You don’t have a DriveThruRPG account yet? No worries, they are FREE and very easy to set up.

Xmas Grab Bags are back!

Christmas Surprise Package – Now Shipping – 3 weeks till Christmas – offer ENDS Christmas Eve, 2024

When you factor the time it takes for you to place an order and for Palladium to process, pack and ship it, you really only have about 2 ½ weeks to order and ship in time for Christmas without having to pay rush fees. So don’t delay, order today and ship via Media Mail or Ground Advantage while you have the time.


The Surprise Package offers huge savings, surprises, and autographs (if you request them) that thrill the purchaser. This is the 26th year we are offering this fan favorite Christmas season bargain because we love doing it as much as you love getting them.


What is a Christmas Surprise Package?


A smile and a hug that comes in a box filled with signed game books from available Palladium staff and freelancers. It is a way for you to get physical books (and autographs if you want them) at PDF prices! $100+ worth of Palladium products for only $60 (plus shipping)! That can nab you four or more items when these days one core rule book can cost you that alone.


These Christmas Surprise Packages are our way of saying thank you for your support and showing you our love and appreciation. It’s a surprise because you never know exactly what you’re going to get or who will sign your books, because we pick from your Wish List and may surprise you with stuff you are not expecting. Extra items may include other RPGs, sourcebooks, issues of the Rifter®, novels, miniatures, prints, art books, greeting cards, T-shirts, negatives, and other items. Some books may be slightly damaged (scuffs, scratches, dings, a bent or crunched corner, etc.) so we can send you more.


No other RPG company on the planet has an offer like this. Truly the best deal in gaming to get unique and special holiday gifts for the gamers in your life, or for yourself.


Christmas Surprise Packages are not just for Christmas. Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or the Winter Solstice, or you are looking for that special gift for a birthday, anniversary, graduation, or any special occasion that falls between now and the end of the year, a Surprise Package may be the ideal way to go. You get a ton of stuff on the cheap, you can get a bunch of autographs (if you want ‘em), and you look like you spent a fortune.


This is also a great way to try that game setting you’ve wondered about – Splicers®, Dead Reign®, Chaos Earth®, Palladium Fantasy®, Nightbane®, Beyond the Supernatural, Rifts®, RECON, After the Bomb®, etc. – or to get something for your favorite Game Master. Or perhaps, to get your player group to consider a new game or setting.


Your “Wish List” is vital – the Palladium Surprise Packages are designed to simulate the joy and surprise of the Christmas Season of Giving. To do this, you submit a list of 12-15 Palladium products (or more) FOR EACH Surprise Package you order. This list of 12-15 items for EACH Grab Bag is critical, because you will not know which items we will select to send you. That makes it just like a Christmas gift because it’s a surprise. Plus, Surrogate Santa Kevin, who personally hand-picks every item for every Grab Bag, may toss in something extra like a limited edition print, or a negative or similar collector’s item, or an issue of The Rifter®, or something else he thinks you’ll enjoy.


Autographed books. For those of you who want them (which are most people), available members of the Palladium staff, and any freelancers we can lasso at the time, are happy to autograph each and every book in your Surprise Package. This is the only way many fans across the country and overseas can ever get signed books.


Send us your brief comments. There is a special form and format to fill out for Christmas Surprise Packages, including a place where you can offer your brief comments, suggestions, greetings and salutations.


First-timers are always nervous until they see the great value in their first Surprise Package. A typical Grab Bag has $100+ worth of product. Yes, often more, for only $60 plus shipping. Many people order 2-3. Some order 4-6, and some maniacs order even more! It makes sense, because it is a great way to fill holes in your own collection, treat yourself, get autographs, try new games and settings, rebuild your collection, replace worn out books, and get your gaming pals gifts. Only from PalladiumBooks.com – happy holidays. PLEASE spread the word about this great offer. Note: Search online for Palladium Surprise Package box opening videos to get an idea of what you can expect to receive. I know the Legion of Myth, among others, has such videos.


To those of you outside the USA, the X-Mas Surprise Package is a way to get books and circumvent the damn high cost of shipping from the United States, since you are getting $110 (often more) worth of product and only paying $60 plus shipping. Shipping via Priority Mail International (required for packages weighing more than four pounds) to most locations in Europe, Canada and many other countries is around $70-80 US dollars. HOWEVER, because the cost of the product is so low, that’s the equivalent of paying retail for the products and only $20-$40 for shipping. A very good deal. Plus you get autographs if you want them! X-Mas Surprise Packages are the way to go for those of you outside the USA. Please take advantage of it to get all those products you’ve wished you could get except the shipping was too prohibitive. We feel your pain. Game on!


Please spread the word. The Christmas Surprise Package is only publicized by word of mouth, on Palladium’s website, and social media, so please tell everyone you know. Buy one for every gamer you know. They make astonishing gifts for every occasion. Only from PalladiumBooks.com – happy holidays.

NEW! Nightbane® Automated Character Sheet


Now available on DriveThruRPG.com – The Nightbane Automated Character Sheet follows a similar format as the popular Rifts® Automated Character Sheet designed by Greg Diaczyk.

  • Microsoft Excel-based system for creating, updating, and tracking your Nightbane RPG characters quickly and easily. Once you know the system, you can have characters up and ready in 10-15 minutes!

  • Create your human Facade and Nightbane Morphus in minutes.

  • Offers a vast range of Morphus choices.

  • Select from scores of Common and Elite Nightbane Talents.

  • Spells, psionics, and more.

  • $5.00 – Available now on DriveThruRPG.com and coming soon on PalladiumBooks.com – Created by Greg Diaczyk.

300+ RPG products on DriveThru – a dozen unique world settings – one game system – endless possibilities. No other game company offers game worlds for so many different genres. Best of all, learn to play one Palladium RPG and you can play them all, because each uses the same basic core rules and combat. There are differences, but the fundamentals are the same. This also means you can bring characters, villains, monsters, powers, magic, weapons, gear, and adventure ideas from one setting into another or mash them together!


In addition to PDF titles for entire game lines like Rifts®, Palladium Fantasy®, Heroes Unlimited™, Ninjas & Superspies™, After the Bomb®, Beyond the Supernatural™, Dead Reign® (zombies), Nightbane® (Urban Fantasy), Rifts Chaos Earth®, Systems Failure™, Splicers®, RECON®, The Rifter® #1-85, and others, there are Game Master and player aids, character generators, paper minis, map packs, and FREE Previews of books like Creature Feature™, Dead Reign, Coalition Manhunters, Titan Robotics™, Rifts Bestiary Volume One, World Books, Dimension Books, and more to give you a glimpse of what’s in the book. Enjoy endless adventures across the Megaverse®.

Palladium Collectibles – at Kevin’s Online Toy & Collectibles eBay Store

I am adding new collectibles of all kinds to my Ebay store in time for the holiday season. Some are Palladium negatives, rare and out of print books, original Palladium artwork, prints, posters, as well as other collectible toys, action figures, Nightmare Before Christmas items, one-of-a-kind proofreader copies, books, and other good stuff – including Erick Wujcik’s rare and sought after Amberzine #12-15. Check in every week or so to see what’s new. All items come from Kevin Siembieda’s personal collection.


One-of-a-kind Palladium Books negatives (special and rare collectibles). Negatives are always very popular items at the Palladium Open House, Gen Con, and conventions, and are catching on as rare collectibles, unique in and of themselves. Before digital printing, pages of a book were laid out by hand on a board, and each page was photographed.

  • Each negative is truly unique, attractive, and fun to have.

  • Own a piece of Palladium Books and RPG history you will treasure.

  • Each was used to print the very book you may have in your collection (1981-2004).

  • Each is signed in silver ink by Kevin Siembieda and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity.

  • Each negative is a one-of-a-kind work of art (on rare occasions, two-of-a-kind if a page or section of pages were replaced or a second edition was made).

  • Looks great matted or framed! Fits an 8×10 inch matt opening. Each neg is roughly 8 ½ x 11 inches.

  • Prices vary depending on the title, the art, and quality of the negative. Note: Many have scratches, or blemishes, and/or an opaque medium on the negative. Still, they look great and are a piece of RPG history. We recommend you carefully examine the photographs of each item to avoid disappointment. The negatives of many books are sold out or were never available.

CLOSING THOUGHTS

Being Joyful and Thankful


Don’t let politics and holiday stress drag you down. This is a great time to take a deep breath and be thankful for what you have. Not just that, but find solace and joy in the people around you and the things that make you smile and happy. (Like Palladium Books! lol)


I miss my beautiful Kathy Simmons and her amazing cooking that beguiled everyone during the holidays. But mostly I miss her sweet voice, her lovely smile, and cheery wit. We joked and teased and laughed a lot, even when times were difficult. She could get me to decompress from the worst day in a matter of minutes. She and our home were my safe haven. My happy place. Even though all those cherished things are now missing, I’m super-thankful to have had them for so many years. I have thousands (millions?) of glorious memories – some make me smile, others make me laugh out loud, while others make me cry. The tears come, not because they are sad memories – no they are sweet memories – but because there are no new memories to be made together. Still I’m thankful for the wonderful time we shared. Funny, it’s all the little things, the sweet moments and quiet time together that seem to be most important now. We faced some of our worst nightmares together and still found ways to laugh and be joyful in each other’s company.


So please, tell the people you love – your friends and family and fellow gamers – how much they mean to you. Tell them how they are special and matter. That they are loved and appreciated and are the most important thing in the whole wide world. I’m glad Kathy knew that, because one minute she was there, and the next, she was gone.


Tell them and be thankful to have them, because even one great friend is of immeasurable value. And if you have more than one great friend and a loving family, you are rich beyond measure. The rest is all just the frosting on the cake.


Me? I’m rich beyond measure. Not only do I have friends who I consider to be amongst the most amazing people on Earth, but I have the greatest fans, a great business partner, and a job I love. Thank you, one and all, for being part of my incredible life and everchanging Megaverse. Enjoy your life and all its wonders. Happy Thanksgiving.


– Kevin Siembieda, Publisher, Game Designer, Friend, and Surrogate Santa

Surprise Package Comments from fans like you

Every year we like to post a selection of the comments we get from Surprise Package customers. It’s a nice acknowledgement and thank you to them (you know who you are) and you enjoy reading them. I read each and every comment that comes in the Surprise Packages, and they always brighten our day. We all appreciate your kind words, suggestions, and insights. In fact, the idea to do hardcover editions of core rule books came from fan comments in the Grab Bags. We get a lot so we can only offer a sampling of these comments in the Weekly Updates.


Our heartfelt thanks to all of you who have stuck with Palladium through thick and thin and now these new strange times. Please use our games to find escape from your day to day grind and worries. Use them to bring a little joy, laughter, and adventure to the holiday season and beyond.


Your comments and support mean the world to all of us. Thank you for making us smile and feel valued. As always, I have tried to write a short response [in brackets] to each comment. Happy holidays.


– Kevin Siembieda (and the Palladium Crew)

R.H. in Tonawanda, New York, writes: Always need to do a second one [Surprise Package]. Thank you again for providing this fantastic deal!


[You are very welcome R.H., but why stop at two? Just saying. Happy Holidays. – Kevin]



M.A. in Wasco, California, writes: Love you guys! Grateful for anything you can send me in my list. Thank you very much, Kevin, for the Deluxe books I ordered a week ago, beautiful.


[M.A., we love you too – you and all our wonderful fans. We try to make all our books top notch, but some, like the TMNT & Other Strangeness books coming in 2025, are extra special and exceed even our expectations. We cannot wait to put them in your hands next spring. Enjoy and happy holidays. – Kevin]



C.P. in Rapid City, South Dakota, writes (in part): Long time Rifts® fan, but I’m getting more and more into horror gaming. I would love to delve into Beyond the Supernatural and Nightbane … please load me up with the essentials for those lines as I love Palladium Stuff and would like to start exploring those lines. Happy Holidays and New Year, all. I love you guys.


[Hey C.P., I’m loving all the love in these Grab Bag comment sections. We love you all too or we wouldn’t offer the Surprise Package deal. Palladium Fans are the world’s greatest and we appreciate you all more than you may ever realize. Happy holidays and here’s to an extraordinary New Year. Game on! – Kevin]



J.A. in Eagle Point, Oregon, writes: I am glad to see this [Surprise Package offer] return for another year, it makes me happy to see Palladium doing well. I am extremely excited for the TMNT & Other Strangeness Redux editions. I backed it and am eagerly awaiting both the Red, White and Black editions and the regular editions. Thank you so much for all you and the crew do for the gaming community. My condolences on your loss, it was a shock to us all that follow and support Palladium. I am happy that you continue to see the light and good in everything around you. Keep up the work and game.


[Hi J.A., I appreciate your sincere and heartfelt comments. You will love both editions of the TMNT & Other Strangeness RPG Redux. We’re always happy to do the Surprise Package offer again to bring a little extra joy to our fellow gamers around the world.


Kathy Simmons’ sudden death was a shock to us all. Thank you for your condolences. Losing her made this year a strange and bittersweet one, and something of a blur. But we have all pushed forward as best we can just as Kathy would want us to do. She loved me and Palladium Books, and our fans, so much. Doing the Surprise Package offer these many years and reading all the comments from the sweet and kind ones like this one, to the serious and the silly ones, and everything in between, made the holiday season a special time for me and Kathy. A shared time and experience for us both. Kathy, like me, would read every single comment. She would point out the ones that touched her heart or made her laugh, or needed special attention, as well as point out regular customers and friends. I’m grateful to have had so many wonderful Christmas seasons with her – and with all of you. The tradition must go on! Happy Holidays and tell those you love how much they mean to you, especially during the holidays. Trust me, you’ll be glad you did. – Kevin]



J.H. in Vancouver, Washington, writes: Hi, I’m back again. The last box I got was too good and I had to get another one. Thanks again guys. Have a good one.


[Welcome back, J.H., get as many Surprise Packages as your heart desires. – Kevin]



C.H.K. in Casselberry, Florida, writes (in part): Special wants: Hell Followed because Alex Marciniszyn says it’s fun. I say, I want to try that! … role-playing helps me live a positive life and my favorite, most caring company of all is you guys, Palladium Books. I look forward to more Legion of Myth interviews, so I have more Palladium goodness to share with my friends … Take care and BE THE LIGHT!


[Yes, C.H.K., be the light! I love it. We all need to focus more on the positive, and deal with the negative as best we can. When you appreciate the beauty, people, and good things that bring you joy, you are happy and feel lighter. Life is too short and precious to do otherwise. Your comments and kind words made us all smile, as did the wonderful surprise prize package you sent to us in the mail. We were all like, what the heck? Thank you, so much. This is just one example of why I always say Palladium fans are the world’s greatest and a welcomed part of our extended family. Whatever Alex tells you, it must be true, and he’s right, Hell Followed is epic and fun. From what I can see, I’d say you’re doing a good job at being the light. Keep it up. With sincere respect and appreciation – Kevin and Crew]



A.K. in Corbin, Kentucky, writes: An update on Tomes Grotesque if possible. Beyond the Supernatural is my favorite game from you guys and I would love additional sourcebooks.


[Hey A.K., you and a few thousand other people. Publishing Tomes Grotesque and Beyond Arcanum some time in 2025 is a personal objective for me and Sean. No promises, but I’ll be doing my best to put them into your hands by this time next year. – Kevin]



J.N. in Springfield, Missouri, writes: Favorites: Palladium Fantasy. Looking forward to purchasing TMNT & Other Strangeness RPG Redux Editions as soon as they release in 2025!


[You will love them, J.N., they are amazing on so many levels. FYI: If you pre-order them before March 2025, you will get them at the Kickstarter price; about a $10 savings for each of the two main books. – Kevin]

W.A.S. in Fairbanks, Alaska, writes: Keep the Rifts® books coming! Looking forward to TMNT & Other Strangeness Redux Kickstarter [items] coming our way. Please make the Savage Worlds Europe a full Rifts® sourcebook in the future. What’s going on with the Lazlo sourcebook? Seems like it fell into limbo.


[Hey, W.A.S., you will love the TMNT & Other Strangeness Redux editions. They are beautiful and remastered. If all goes well, 2025 will offer a number of new releases for Rifts®, Fantasy, and other settings. Rifts City of Lazlo is in a bit of a limbo but far from forgotten. It’s our policy not to talk much about upcoming releases or Palladium’s plans until items are going to print, so you’ll just have to wait to see what the new year has in store for Rifts – Rifts® Bestiary 2 and Rifts® Antarctica are at the top of our list. As for the City State of Lazlo, Rifts Europa, and others, they are on our radar. Happy holidays! – Kevin]



E.A. in Olympia, Washington, writes (in part): I have enjoyed every game setting from Palladium Books, though Rifts® and Heroes Unlimited are most favored. These are rich worlds where we can play anything or anyone in every type of scenario we wish. The character creation process is so much fun, my group and I will even get together for the joy of creating random characters and then crafting back stories for them … I was introduced to Rifts®, Heroes Unlimited, and Palladium Fantasy all at the same time. I was hooked on the system and art. It has been a fantastic journey within these worlds and the people I met and shared time with – lasting friendships. Kevin and Sean are assured to have Palladium Books grow and [continue] the Megaverse®.


[Hi E.A., thank you for the delightful, love-filled note in the comment section. It warms our hearts when we see how much joy our simple games have brought to so many people. I’m thankful and glad to inspire imaginations and help bring laughter and friendship to tables around the world. Talk about humbling (and to my mind, miraculous). Merry Christmas and game on. – Kevin]



D.H. in Troy, Michigan, writes (in part): Thank you Kevin and Crew for doing this every year. This will be my second year ordering. It’s a little Christmas treat for myself. Will you do an Open House next year [2025], I would love to come just to say I was at Palladium Books! Keep up the good work and thank you for years of memories with friends.


[You are very welcome, D.H., it is our pleasure to do these Surprise Packages. No 2025 Open House, but we are considering doing one in 2026. More details when we decide when and where. Meanwhile, you know you can swing by the office any time to get a little tour of the place. Happy Thanksgiving and Merry Christmas. – Kevin]



B.C. in Spring, Texas, writes (in part): Kevin, I admire how you’ve handled all the tragedy and stress of this year. Strength and health and healing to you … Grateful for the new automated Nightbane excel sheet and hope one is coming for Heroes Unlimited … I’m also loving the Kevin interviews, but I’m now eager for an interviewer to ask about your Game Mastering advice … to foster story and improvisation …


[Thank you for your kind words, B.C. The healing continues every day and my emotional strength and health improves daily. I learned that from Kathy, Erick, and my Mom, all amazing human beings. Legion of Myth has been asking me and Sean all kinds of G.M. and storytelling questions, and you’ll see more in upcoming interviews after we’ve covered Palladium’s long history. Wow, I’ve done a lot. Lol. I loved your suggestions and will keep them in mind. Keep your imagination burning bright. Happy holidays. – Kevin]

Sales, New Products & Fun – Palladium Books® Weekly Update – November 21, 2024

Written by pb_addy on . Posted in Weekly Updates.

Weekly Update

ONE GAME SYSTEM – EVERY GENRE – COUNTLESS WORLDS – ENDLESS ADVENTURE

Sales, New Products & Fun – Palladium Books® Weekly Update – November 21, 2024

We are insanely busy with … well, everything! So I’m gonna focus on new products, news, and time sensitive sales! Below are brief summaries, news, and updates, but larger, more detailed descriptions follow.

Notebook and Pen Sets

NEW! Three different Notebook and Pen Sets – Sean and I thought these were cool when we received the sample, so we decided to print several dozen and offer them for the holidays. Well, we had two visitors here at the studio when the attractive notebooks arrived and everyone went crazy over them, including the Palladium staff. At only $9.99 each for a pocket-size (3.5 x 5.5 inch), 80 page, lined notebook and matching pen, you will too. Three choices: Red Heroes Unlimited, Black Palladium Fantasy, and Blue Rifts; but I say get them all. See photos and more details below or click on the link to the store. Available only while supplies last. Based on the reaction of people who see the pen and notepad set, I was a dope and printed what I suspect will be far too few. Get them while you can. A nice stocking stuffer. See more details below.

SALE! Only 11 days left – The Palladium Fantasy PDF Bundle of Holding (16 PDF books) at crazy savings – Get $196.50 worth of PDF Fantasy books for less than $35. This includes the core rule book and 15 other Palladium Fantasy PDF books! Insane savings and a great way to start, or add to, your PDF reference library. What more needs to be said? Spread the word so fans of Fantasy settings, not just Palladium fans, can discover the fun.

SALE! Palladium Surprise Package – best deal in gaming – only 4 weeks till Christmas (see shipping guide below). $105 (often more) in Palladium products for only $60 plus shipping. That’s typically 4-6 books (and/or other items), all signed by Kevin Siembieda and available staff if you request it. Heck you pay that or more for a single core rule book from most companies! So we are talking about big savings and fun. And it’s all based on your Wish List from Surrogate Santa, Kevin. The perfect gift for the holidays, birthdays, and anniversaries at bargain prices, or treat yourself. The Surprise Package is a great way to fill your collection, try new settings and RPGs, and replace battered old books. Don’t limit yourself to just books either, everything in the Palladium store can be considered for your Surprise Package – miniatures, poker decks, art prints, bookmarks, coffee mugs, greeting cards, and other products. See more details by clicking the link below and learn why the Christmas Surprise Package has been a fan favorite for 26 years. No other game company does anything like this so please spread the word. Limited time offer – ENDS Christmas Eve.


A.W. in Mountain Grove, Missouri, had this to say about the holiday deal: “This will be my second Surprise Package this year! The first one arrived so soon after ordering, I wasn’t expecting it. Which makes it one of the best birthday gifts I’ve ever received … I will definitely be buying a few more of these before the year is out.”

Shipping in time for Christmas – 4 weeks to Christmas – less when you account for shipping. Whether you are buying a Surprise Package or a regular order, if you need it in time for Christmas, please order sooner than later to avoid needing to pay for express service or the package not arriving in time for Christmas. Take comfort in your gifts arriving before December 25 with these key ship-by dates. The closer you get to Christmas/Kwanzaa/Hanukkah, the more we recommend UPS as the most reliable method of shipping.


– United States Postal Service: Media Mail – December 9th so order NOW! Media Mail is a low priority mail service so orders placed after December 9th cannot be assured of delivery in time for Christmas; they may or may not. Last year, mail delivery was very good, but we cannot guarantee delivery in time for Christmas when you use Media Mail after December 9th. Moreover, YOU assume ALL risk when you ship via Media Mail. If an order arrives late, goes missing, or is damaged in transit, it will NOT be replaced by Palladium Books.


– United States Postal Service (in USA): Ground Advantage – December 17th.


– United States Postal Service (in USA): Priority Mail – December 18th.


– United States Postal Service (in USA): Priority Mail EXPRESS (expensive) – December 19th.


– UPS Ground (anywhere in the contiguous USA) – December 15. Last year, UPS was astonishing in its speed and accuracy of shipping. After that date, all bets are off.


– UPS 3-Day Select – December 17th, but you will pay for expedited shipping.


– UPS 2nd Day Air – December 18th, but you will pay for expedited shipping.


– UPS Next Day Air – December 19th (to arrive December 24, Christmas Eve) – Palladium Needs that order submitted by December 19th, so we can pack and ship it December 20th to arrive Monday, Christmas Eve, but please don’t cut it that close or pay such a high price for expedited shipping.


– To our friends in Canada and overseas – December 5 with no guarantee that the package will arrive by Christmas. We suggest ordering no later than December 2, but SOONER is better, and even NOW, we cannot guarantee delivery in time for Christmas. Your package should arrive in time, but if there are delays at Customs, work strikes, bad weather, etc., it might miss. Order as soon as possible. Note: Right now, we are finding overseas packages are taking 15-30 days to arrive, sometimes longer! Cost Saver: A Surprise Package mitigates overseas shipping costs – take advantage of this while you can. It is, in effect, the equivalent of getting the books you want at retail, plus autographs, and paying the equivalent of only $10-$30 for overseas shipping! MANY overseas customers take advantage of the Surprise Packages for this reason! And it is likely the ONLY way for you to get autographs. Give it a try, we don’t think you will be disappointed.


– Any orders placed after these dates may arrive in time for Christmas but we cannot guarantee it AND you should assume they will NOT arrive in time for Christmas. Please spread the word and place those orders as soon as you can. Ho, ho, ho and happy holidays.


– 2024 Shipping Note: Please make sure your address is complete and correct! As always, at Palladium, we will be working overtime and doing everything we can to process orders as fast as possible to get them to you for the holidays. However, after the package leaves the Palladium warehouse, delivery is out of our hands. As we get closer to Christmas, UPS Ground and Priority Mail will be your most reliable and timely methods of shipping. Thank you for your understanding.

FUN! Surprise Package Comments can be found at the end of the Update. Every holiday season, I (Kevin) share a selection of Surprise Package comments from gamers like you. I do so to give a shout out for their (and your) support and because I know many of you enjoy reading them nearly as much as we do. We can’t post them all, but we share as many as we can. They are located at the end of each Weekly Update.

TMNT & Other Strangeness Redux Pre-Order Store

News! TMNT & Other Strangeness Pre-Order Store. There is now a link on the front page of the Palladium website to the TMNT & Other Strangeness Pre-Order Store (as well as below). Please note that these products will not ship until 2025. The advantage to placing your pre-order before March, 2025, is that you will get the items at the lower Kickstarter price. For example, you save $10 on each of the two color cover volumes of the two main books, because the final retail price will be higher than the current Kickstarter price. Moreover, Sean Owen Roberson has outdone himself on the Redux editions. Clear and concise rules clarifications, new and helpful tables and charts, sweet layout, gorgeous color art, and so much more.

News! TMNT & Other Strangeness Backers who have not yet filled out the Backerkit fulfillment survey with your ship to addresses, etc., please do so. There are a few hundred of you who have not done it yet and you cannot receive your pledge rewards unless you have filled it out. We fear some of you may have had our many reminders blocked by filters. Click here to take care of it now!

News! Rifts® for Savage Worlds: Europa Kickstarter by Pinnacle Entertainment is in full swing! Even if you don’t use the Savage Worlds game system you may want to check it out. Why? Because it fills in the blanks about Rifts® Europe (Italy, Germany, France, England, Scandinavia, etc.) as of 109 PA. This is ALL “official” world and source material authorized and approved by Palladium Books (specifically Sean Roberson and Kevin Siembieda). Which means you can easily adapt the world information, gear, maps, adventures, and more into your Palladium Rifts campaign or start a new one. Learn more by clicking the link below to see the Rifts® Europa Kickstarter preview page. Game on and enjoy.

History of Palladium Books on YouTube

News! Palladium Books® YouTube Channel offers the Official History of Palladium Books – Here’s what’s coming:

  • November 21 – The Mechanoid Trilogy

  • December 5 – Palladium’s Weapons & Armor series

  • December 19 – Palladium Fantasy RPG


A new episode goes up every other week with the occasional bonus episode in between. Many more chats are coming. Each one a friendly and candid conversation that people are loving. J-M Defoggi and I, Kevin Siembieda, reveal the origins and inside story behind the creation of your favorite Palladium role-playing games and sourcebooks. Presented in rough chronological order.

News! Glitterbois podcasts are offering a series of conversations about the origins of, and thought process behind, Palladium’s many game lines and specific books. These podcasts always cover additional details and memories about the games and Palladium’s history. More fun times.

News! What’s hot at Palladium this week – Rifts® and Palladium Fantasy® remain sizzling hot and Fantasy has gotten even hotter with the Palladium Fantasy 2nd Edition Bundle of Holding super-sale happening through Cyber-Monday. Thank you for your support and keep the orders coming. Remember to order your Christmas Surprise Package in time for the holidays.

NEW – 3 Notebook & Pen Sets

If you’re looking for the perfect stocking stuffer or a fun practical gift, we have three for you.

NEW! Rifts® Unleash Your Imagination Blue Notebook & Pen Set

  • Black ink pen with comfortable, “soft touch” finish.

  • Matching 80 page, ruled paper notepad with matching color ribbon bookmark.

  • Pocket-size 3 ½ by 5 ½ inches to slip nicely into a back pocket or purse.

  • $9.99 per set – Cat. No. 2618 – available now.

NEW! Palladium Books® Live the Fantasy Black Notebook & Pen Set

  • Black ink pen with comfortable, “soft touch” finish.

  • Matching 80 page, ruled paper notepad with matching color ribbon bookmark.

  • Pocket-size 3 ½ by 5 ½ inches to slip nicely into a back pocket or purse.

  • $9.99 per set – Cat. No. 2619 – available now.

New! Heroes Unlimited™ Unleash Your Power Red Notebook & Pen Set

  • Black ink pen with comfortable, “soft touch” finish.

  • Matching 80 page, ruled paper notepad with matching color ribbon bookmark.

  • Pocket-size 3 ½ by 5 ½ inches to slip nicely into a back pocket or purse.

  • $9.99 per set – Cat. No. 2620 – available now.

Palladium Fantasy Bundle of Holding

NEW! 2 Palladium Fantasy 2E – Second Edition (current rules) Bundle of Holding – for epic fantasy adventures – available now

The Palladium Fantasy RPG® 2nd Edition Bundle of Holding was such a smash hit in 2022 that Allen Varney is bringing it back with a couple extra books added for good measure. And just in time for the holidays. A great way to build your PDF library on the cheap, we recommend you get both the Starter and the Bonus Collections, because you will never get these titles at a better discount than this! The Palladium Fantasy Bundle is available now and runs through Black Friday and Cyber-Monday – but order before the holiday rush so you don’t forget!


For those of you new to the Bundles of Holding, you get huge savings on these PDF titles whenever you “buy in.” However, the biggest savings are during the first couple weeks of the offer. Ah, but a Bundle of Holding is always a big bargain no matter when you buy in, even on the last day!


What’s that? You don’t use the Palladium game system? That’s okay, because you can easily adapt it to any edition of D&D or other fantasy game. The unique character classes, monsters, magic, weapons, magic items, locations, and adventures are easy to adapt and surprise your players with things they are not expecting.


Please tell everyone about the Bundles and help new gamers discover the fun and depth of the Palladium Fantasy setting. Snag one for yourself and then, please, spread the word far and wide.


Everything you need to launch a sprawling campaign using the current 2nd Edition FRPG rules. Hundreds of spells, human and inhuman player characters, magic items, monsters, heroes, 100,000 years of history in a unique world, and adventures galore all presented with Palladium’s trademark depth of story.


http://bundleofholding.com/presents/2EPalladium


2E STARTER Collection (US $17.95 – total retail value $71.50)

  • Palladium Fantasy RPG®, 2nd Edition ($13.50)

  • Dragons & Gods ($12.50)

  • Monsters & Animals ($12.50)

  • Mysteries of Magic 1: The Heart of Magic ($9)

  • The Western Empire ($13)

  • Library of Bletherad ($11; epic source for adventure)

Total PDF retail value of $71.50, all for only $17.95!


2E BONUS Collection (threshold starts at US $32.95 – retail $125 more for a total of $196.50!):

Gets you everything in the Starter Collection plus PDFs of …

  • Old Ones 2E ($12.50)

  • Adventures on the High Seas 2E ($12.50)

  • Wolfen Empire ($11)

  • Eastern Territory ($13)

  • Land of the Damned 1 – Chaos Lands ($13)

  • Land of the Damned 2 – Eternal Torment ($13)

  • Mount Nimro ($11)

  • Baalgor Wastelands ($13)

  • Northern Hinterlands ($13)

  • Bizantium and the Northern Islands ($13)

If you have never played Palladium Fantasy® 2nd Edition, it is epic, and the Starter and Bonus Collections give you plenty to get rolling. Also easily adaptable to D&D and other fantasy settings.


If you are a long time Palladium Fantasy® fan, you get the Second Edition RPG and other “core” books to have available as a digital reference for your current games. Build your PDF reference library on the cheap via the Bundle of Holding. And the sooner the better, because as more people buy, the price goes up, but it’s always an exceptional bargain.


The Palladium Fantasy 2E Bundle will END on December 2, 2024 at 11 PM Pacific Time – don’t miss out on this limited time offer!


Again, please spread the word and tell everybody about these PDF bundles. All PDF bundles are hosted in association with OneBookShelf, DriveThruRPG’s parent company, and you get your PDF bundle added directly into your DriveThruRPG library. What? You don’t have a DriveThruRPG account yet? No worries, they are FREE and very easy to set up.

Xmas Grab Bags are back!

Christmas Surprise Package – Now Shipping – 4 weeks till Christmas – offer ENDS Christmas Eve, 2024

When you factor the time it takes for you to place an order and for Palladium to process, pack and ship it, you really only have about 3 ½ weeks to order and ship in time for Christmas without having to pay rush fees. So don’t delay, order today and ship via Media Mail or Ground Advantage while you have the time.


The Surprise Package offers huge savings, surprises, and autographs (if you request them) that thrill the purchaser. This is the 26th year we are offering this fan favorite Christmas season bargain because we love doing it as much as you love getting them.


What is a Christmas Surprise Package?


A smile and a hug that comes in a box filled with signed game books from available Palladium staff and freelancers. It is a way for you to get physical books (and autographs if you want them) at PDF prices! $100+ worth of Palladium products for only $60 (plus shipping)! That can nab you four or more items when these days one core rule book can cost you that alone.


These Christmas Surprise Packages are our way of saying thank you for your support and showing you our love and appreciation. It’s a surprise because you never know exactly what you’re going to get or who will sign your books, because we pick from your Wish List and may surprise you with stuff you are not expecting. Extra items may include other RPGs, sourcebooks, issues of the Rifter®, novels, miniatures, prints, art books, greeting cards, T-shirts, negatives, and other items. Some books may be slightly damaged (scuffs, scratches, dings, a bent or crunched corner, etc.) so we can send you more.


No other RPG company on the planet has an offer like this. Truly the best deal in gaming to get unique and special holiday gifts for the gamers in your life, or for yourself.


Christmas Surprise Packages are not just for Christmas. Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or the Winter Solstice, or you are looking for that special gift for a birthday, anniversary, graduation, or any special occasion that falls between now and the end of the year, a Surprise Package may be the ideal way to go. You get a ton of stuff on the cheap, you can get a bunch of autographs (if you want ‘em), and you look like you spent a fortune.


This is also a great way to try that game setting you’ve wondered about – Splicers®, Dead Reign®, Chaos Earth®, Palladium Fantasy®, Nightbane®, Beyond the Supernatural, Rifts®, RECON, After the Bomb®, etc. – or to get something for your favorite Game Master. Or perhaps, to get your player group to consider a new game or setting.


Your “Wish List” is vital – the Palladium Surprise Packages are designed to simulate the joy and surprise of the Christmas Season of Giving. To do this, you submit a list of 12-15 Palladium products (or more) FOR EACH Surprise Package you order. This list of 12-15 items for EACH Grab Bag is critical, because you will not know which items we will select to send you. That makes it just like a Christmas gift because it’s a surprise. Plus, Surrogate Santa Kevin, who personally hand-picks every item for every Grab Bag, may toss in something extra like a limited edition print, or a negative or similar collector’s item, or an issue of The Rifter®, or something else he thinks you’ll enjoy.


Autographed books. For those of you who want them (which are most people), available members of the Palladium staff, and any freelancers we can lasso at the time, are happy to autograph each and every book in your Surprise Package. This is the only way many fans across the country and overseas can ever get signed books.


Send us your brief comments. There is a special form and format to fill out for Christmas Surprise Packages, including a place where you can offer your brief comments, suggestions, greetings and salutations.


First-timers are always nervous until they see the great value in their first Surprise Package. A typical Grab Bag has $100+ worth of product. Yes, often more, for only $60 plus shipping. Many people order 2-3. Some order 4-6, and some maniacs order even more! It makes sense, because it is a great way to fill holes in your own collection, treat yourself, get autographs, try new games and settings, rebuild your collection, replace worn out books, and get your gaming pals gifts. Only from PalladiumBooks.com – happy holidays. PLEASE spread the word about this great offer. Note: Search online for Palladium Surprise Package box opening videos to get an idea of what you can expect to receive. I know the Legion of Myth, among others, has such videos.


To those of you outside the USA, the X-Mas Surprise Package is a way to get books and circumvent the damn high cost of shipping from the United States, since you are getting $110 (often more) worth of product and only paying $60 plus shipping. Shipping via Priority Mail International (required for packages weighing more than four pounds) to most locations in Europe, Canada and many other countries is around $70-80 US dollars. HOWEVER, because the cost of the product is so low, that’s the equivalent of paying retail for the products and only $20-$40 for shipping. A very good deal. Plus you get autographs if you want them! X-Mas Surprise Packages are the way to go for those of you outside the USA. Please take advantage of it to get all those products you’ve wished you could get except the shipping was too prohibitive. We feel your pain. Game on!


Please spread the word. The Christmas Surprise Package is only publicized by word of mouth, on Palladium’s website, and social media, so please tell everyone you know. Buy one for every gamer you know. They make astonishing gifts for every occasion. Only from PalladiumBooks.com – happy holidays.

NEW! Nightbane® Automated Character Sheet


Now available on DriveThruRPG.com – The Nightbane Automated Character Sheet follows a similar format as the popular Rifts® Automated Character Sheet designed by Greg Diaczyk.

  • Microsoft Excel-based system for creating, updating, and tracking your Nightbane RPG characters quickly and easily. Once you know the system, you can have characters up and ready in 10-15 minutes!

  • Create your human Facade and Nightbane Morphus in minutes.

  • Offers a vast range of Morphus choices.

  • Select from scores of Common and Elite Nightbane Talents.

  • Spells, psionics, and more.

  • $5.00 – Available now on DriveThruRPG.com and coming soon on PalladiumBooks.com – Created by Greg Diaczyk.

300+ RPG products on DriveThru – a dozen unique world settings – one game system – endless possibilities. No other game company offers game worlds for so many different genres. Best of all, learn to play one Palladium RPG and you can play them all, because each uses the same basic core rules and combat. There are differences, but the fundamentals are the same. This also means you can bring characters, villains, monsters, powers, magic, weapons, gear, and adventure ideas from one setting into another or mash them together!


In addition to PDF titles for entire game lines like Rifts®, Palladium Fantasy®, Heroes Unlimited™, Ninjas & Superspies™, After the Bomb®, Beyond the Supernatural™, Dead Reign® (zombies), Nightbane® (Urban Fantasy), Rifts Chaos Earth®, Systems Failure™, Splicers®, RECON®, The Rifter® #1-85, and others, there are Game Master and player aids, character generators, paper minis, map packs, and FREE Previews of books like Creature Feature™, Dead Reign, Coalition Manhunters, Titan Robotics™, Rifts Bestiary Volume One, World Books, Dimension Books, and more to give you a glimpse of what’s in the book. Enjoy endless adventures across the Megaverse®.

Palladium Collectibles – at Kevin’s Online Toy & Collectibles eBay Store

I am adding new collectibles of all kinds to my Ebay store in time for the holiday season. Some are Palladium negatives, rare and out of print books, original Palladium artwork, prints, posters, as well as other collectible toys, action figures, Nightmare Before Christmas items, one-of-a-kind proofreader copies, books, and other good stuff – including Erick Wujcik’s rare and sought after Amberzine #12-15. Check in every week or so to see what’s new. All items come from Kevin Siembieda’s personal collection.


One-of-a-kind Palladium Books negatives (special and rare collectibles). Negatives are always very popular items at the Palladium Open House, Gen Con, and conventions, and are catching on as rare collectibles, unique in and of themselves. Before digital printing, pages of a book were laid out by hand on a board, and each page was photographed.

  • Each negative is truly unique, attractive, and fun to have.

  • Own a piece of Palladium Books and RPG history you will treasure.

  • Each was used to print the very book you may have in your collection (1981-2004).

  • Each is signed in silver ink by Kevin Siembieda and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity.

  • Each negative is a one-of-a-kind work of art (on rare occasions, two-of-a-kind if a page or section of pages were replaced or a second edition was made).

  • Looks great matted or framed! Fits an 8×10 inch matt opening. Each neg is roughly 8 ½ x 11 inches.

  • Prices vary depending on the title, the art, and quality of the negative. Note: Many have scratches, or blemishes, and/or an opaque medium on the negative. Still, they look great and are a piece of RPG history. We recommend you carefully examine the photographs of each item to avoid disappointment. The negatives of many books are sold out or were never available.

CLOSING THOUGHTS

Joy and Laughter are Magic


I know so many people who are down right now. Down about the election results. Down about the economy. Down on themselves. I get it. I understand being down. I miss my beautiful Kathy Simmons like crazy. I recently lost another friend and a great human being, Carl Johnson. I miss our weekly calls and his cheery voice. Even though he was fighting a losing battle to stage four cancer throughout his body, he was always positive and cheerful. Like Kathy, he never complained, made me laugh and made my day better just by chatting with me. Astonishing.


I want to be more like Kathy and Carl, bringing joy and laughter into the world daily. Moreover, I read a recent medical article that said joy and laughter are the best medicine, and there are no negative side effects. Amen.


In these challenging and uncertain times. Let us all focus on the things we actually have power over. Forget about politics and our little troubles, and focus on the things we can change for the better. Let us focus on the positive and the things that bring us joy and laughter. Things like running an RPG game or campaign, or any game, or reading a good book or comic book, or taking a walk, or calling a loved one. There are some movies coming out that sound really good: Gladiator 2 and Wicked both come out this week, and Moana II next weekend. A couple of friends have told me that Red One, in theaters now, is a great movie. I’m going to see one of them this weekend.


Focus on the good things in life. For me that’s friends, family, gaming, art, movies, and comic books among other things – all of which bring me joy, laughter, and closer to my friends and loved ones. Be joyful. Not just because ‘tis the season, but because being thankful, joyful and full of laughter is what makes life worth living. I, for one, refuse to live in dread, fear, and depression. I’m going to love and have fun with the people I care about, create and be silly to my last breath. I invite you to join me.


So see a movie, stock up on RPGs and sourcebooks via the Surprise Package offer, the Palladium Fantasy Bundle of Holding, and other sales that tickle your fancy, find your joy and hold onto it. And thank you for being part of my joy. Doing the Surprise Packages and reading your comments brings me joy. Knowing you enjoy our games so much and find so much fun and inspiration from them, brings us all joy. Thank you.


– Kevin Siembieda, Publisher, Game Designer, Friend, and Surrogate Santa

Surprise Package Comments from fans like you

Every year we like to post a selection of the comments we get from Surprise Package customers. It’s a nice acknowledgement and thank you to them (you know who you are) and you enjoy reading them. I read each and every comment that comes in the Surprise Packages, and they always brighten our day. We all appreciate your kind words, suggestions, and insights. In fact, the idea to do hardcover editions of core rule books came from fan comments in the Grab Bags. We get a lot so we can only offer a sampling of these comments in the Weekly Updates.


Our heartfelt thanks to all of you who have stuck with Palladium through thick and thin and now these new strange times. Please use our games to find escape from your day to day grind and worries. Use them to bring a little joy, laughter, and adventure to the holiday season and beyond.


Your comments and support mean the world to all of us. Thank you for making us smile and feel valued. As always, I have tried to write a short response [in brackets] to each comment. Happy holidays.


– Kevin Siembieda (and the Palladium Crew)

C.O. in Chicago, Illinois, writes: Thank you so much for the Christmas Surprise Package I received. I was so excited I couldn’t wait to order another one.


[Beautiful, C.O., that’s our goal – to put a smile on your face and make you super-excited about gaming and the holidays. Merry Christmas! Ho, ho, ho – Kevin]



J.B. in Anchorage, Alaska, writes: I love Palladium Books! So happy to see more campaigns on Kickstarter and future projects. Much love and appreciation from Alaska.


[Right back at you J.B., much love and appreciation from Michigan to you and all our fans. If we can pull off all our plans for next year, you’re gonna be over the moon in 2025. Stay warm and game on. – Kevin]



J.T. in Longwood, Florida, writes: Hey Kevin! Been collecting and playing Palladium since the early nineties. Been getting these Surprise Packages for about 10 years. I have an ongoing Minion War campaign, so that Megaverse [in Flames] gold looks mighty sweet … really looking forward to the Antarctica release.


[Thanks for the decades of support, J.T., you’re gonna love Rifts® Antarctica next year. Game on. – Kevin]



J.H. in Vancouver, Washington, writes (in part): I recently started running Rifts®. I do sandbox style so there’s always something I need. My players right now are talking about heading out west away from Chi-Town … I love the work you guys have done over the years and firmly believe it’s one of the best systems out there. I’ve played for years …


[The western frontier is one of my favorite settings, J.H., so I think your players will enjoy adventuring there. Believe! We appreciate your kind words and praise. Happy trails. – Kevin]



D.C. in Northport, Alabama, writes: This will be my second Grab Bag and they are great, thank you so much. Favorites: Ninjas & Superspies, Rifts®, all of them.


[Hey D.C., I think you’ll like this one just as much as the first. Please feel free to purchase as many as you would like. Keep your imagination burning bright. – Kevin]



K.L. in Plymouth, Indiana, writes: I have been collecting Rifts® books since I was a kid growing up in Lansing, Michigan, buying them from the Abyss comic store. Despite having never actually played a game of Rifts®, because I’ve never found a group to play with in person. I’ve always loved the amazing art and the system’s flexibility in being able to do any kind of genre. These books have always brought me a lot of joy and always set off my imagination.


[You’re not the only one who enjoys reading our books, K.L. Still, it’s too bad you’ve never been able to find a local player group for the full experience. I think you’ll enjoy your Surprise Package. – Kevin]



J.H. in Draper, Utah, writes: My all-time favorite games are Rifts® followed closely by Heroes Unlimited. It has been a while since I have played anything but I am gearing up to start a campaign again. What I love most about the product is even after all this time, the game is the same. Not like other game companies that come out with new version after new version.


[Welcome back to running an RPG campaign again, J.H. Don’t overthink it and have fun. I hope your campaign is a blast for all involved. – Kevin]



L.B. Jr. in Modesto, California, writes (in part): Another year has come! I love the Christmas Surprise Package offer, and have gotten it every year! I hope you all have a wonderful holiday season and a blessed New Year. My end goal is to have all of your books, and every year I get a little closer. I absolutely can’t wait for Psychic Scream. That is one I’ve been wanting badly.


[Hi L.B., I’m glad you enjoy our games so much. Using the Surprise Package to build your collection at a discount is smart, glad we can help. Psychic Scream is not forgotten. – Kevin]

Bundle Sale & More – Palladium Books® Weekly Update – November 14, 2024

Written by pb_addy on . Posted in Weekly Updates.

Weekly Update

ONE GAME SYSTEM – EVERY GENRE – COUNTLESS WORLDS – ENDLESS ADVENTURE

Bundle Sale & More – Palladium Books® Weekly Update – November 14, 2024

Only 13 days to Thanksgiving and 5 weeks to Christmas (only 4 weeks if you are planning to get an order shipped to you), so get your orders in soon to avoid the holiday rush starting with Black Friday and Cyber-Monday.


NEW SALE! Palladium Fantasy Bundle of Holding available now! It started yesterday, November 13 – so you can still get in on the ground floor. For those of you new to the Bundles of Holding, you get huge savings on these PDF titles whenever you “buy in.” However, the biggest savings are during the first couple weeks of the offer. Thankfully, a Bundle of Holding is always a big bargain no matter when you buy in, even on the last day! Now through Black Friday and Cyber-Monday – but order before the holiday rush so you don’t forget!


The Palladium Fantasy RPG® 2nd Edition Bundle of Holding was such a smash hit in 2022 that Allen Varney decided to bring it back with a couple extra books added for good measure. And just in time for the holidays. A great way to build your PDF library on the cheap, we recommend you get both the Starter and the Bonus Collections, because you will never get these titles at a better discount than this! See more details below or click on the button.

SALE! Palladium’s Christmas Surprise Package offer now till Christmas Eve – $100+ in product for $60 plus shipping – available now! Only 13 days till Thanksgiving and 5 weeks till Christmas – but don’t forget to add a week for shipping. It’s smart to order early because you beat the Christmas rush and it gives you the opportunity to order additional Surprise Packages over the coming weeks should you want more.


A typical Surprise Package gets you 4-6 books (and/or other items). Kevin Siembieda and available staff are happy to sign your books if you request it. That’s 4-6 books for what you pay for a single core rule book from most companies! Big savings and fun.


Remember, the Surprise Package is the perfect gamer gift for the holidays, birthdays, and anniversaries; something truly special at a low price! Or treat yourself to RPGs and sourcebooks you’ve been meaning to try, or replace battered old books. Don’t limit yourself to just books, either; everything in the Palladium store can be considered for your Surprise Package – miniatures, poker decks, art prints, bookmarks, coffee mugs, greeting cards, and other products. See more details by clicking the link below and learn why the Christmas Surprise Package has been a fan favorite for 26 years. No other game company does anything like this. Limited time offer, sale ends Christmas Eve. Ho, ho, ho.

FUN! Surprise Package Comments can be found at the end of the Update. Every holiday season, I (Kevin) share a selection of Surprise Package comments from gamers like you. I do so to give a shout out for their (and your) support and because I know many of you enjoy reading them nearly as much as we do. We can’t post them all, but we share as many as we can. They are located at the end of each Weekly Update.

TMNT & Other Strangeness Redux Pre-Order Store

News! TMNT & Other Strangeness Pre-Order Store. There is now a link on the front page of the Palladium website to the TMNT & Other Strangeness Pre-Order Store (as well as below). Please note that these products will not ship until 2025. The advantage to placing your pre-order before March, 2025, is that you will get the items at the lower Kickstarter price. For example, you save $10 on each of the two color cover volumes of the two main books, because the final retail price will be higher than the current Kickstarter price. Moreover, Sean Owen Roberson has outdone himself on the Redux editions. Clear and concise rules clarifications, new and helpful tables and charts, sweet layout, gorgeous color art, and so much more.

News! TMNT & Other Strangeness Backers who have not yet filled out the Backerkit fulfillment survey with your ship to addresses, etc., please do so. There are a few hundred of you who have not done it yet and you cannot receive your pledge rewards unless you have filled it out. We fear some of you may have had our many reminders blocked by filters. Click here to take care of it now!

News! Rifts® for Savage Worlds: Europa Kickstarter by Pinnacle Entertainment is in full swing! Even if you don’t use the Savage Worlds game system you may want to check it out. Why? Because it fills in the blanks about Rifts® Europe (Italy, Germany, France, England, Scandinavia, etc.) as of 109 PA. This is ALL “official” world and source material authorized and approved by Palladium Books (specifically Sean Roberson and Kevin Siembieda). Which means you can easily adapt the world information, gear, maps, adventures, and more into your Palladium Rifts campaign or start a new one. Learn more by clicking the link below to see the Rifts® Europa Kickstarter preview page. Game on and enjoy.

History of Palladium Books on YouTube

News! Palladium Books® YouTube Channel offers the Official History of Palladium Books. A new episode goes up every other week with the occasional bonus episode in between. Many more chats are coming. Each one a friendly and candid conversation that people are loving. J-M Defoggi and I, Kevin Siembieda, reveal the origins and inside scoop behind the creation of your favorite Palladium role-playing games and sourcebooks. Presented in rough chronological order. There are already 30 or so episodes recorded. In the future we’ll be delving into tales of the Defilers and interviews with notable Palladium Books creators like Sean Owen Roberson, Matthew Clements, Matthew Balent, Ramon K. Perez, Freddie E. Williams II, and others. Please offer suggestions about topics of discussion for our future consideration. Thank you.

News! Glitterbois podcasts are offering a series of conversations about the origins of, and thought process behind, Palladium’s many game lines and specific books. These podcasts always cover additional details and memories about the games and Palladium’s history. More fun times.

News! What’s hot at Palladium this week – Palladium Fantasy® remains sizzling hot and has gotten even hotter with the Palladium Fantasy 2nd Edition Bundle of Holding happening now through Cyber-Monday. Meanwhile, Rifts® always remains strong, but we are continuing to see interest in Chaos Earth®, Heroes Unlimited, and Nightbane® as well as the Rifts® Dimension Books. Thank you for your support and keep the orders coming.

Palladium Fantasy Bundle of Holding

NEW! 2 Palladium Fantasy 2E – Second Edition (current rules) Bundle of Holding – for epic fantasy adventures – available now

The Palladium Fantasy RPG® 2nd Edition Bundle of Holding was such a smash hit in 2022 that Allen Varney is bringing it back with a couple extra books added for good measure. And just in time for the holidays. A great way to build your PDF library on the cheap, we recommend you get both the Starter and the Bonus Collections, because you will never get these titles at a better discount than this! The Palladium Fantasy Bundle is available now and runs through Black Friday and Cyber-Monday – but order before the holiday rush so you don’t forget!


For those of you new to the Bundles of Holding, you get huge savings on these PDF titles whenever you “buy in.” However, the biggest savings are during the first couple weeks of the offer. Ah, but a Bundle of Holding is always a big bargain no matter when you buy in, even on the last day!


What’s that? You don’t use the Palladium game system? That’s okay, because you can easily adapt it to any edition of D&D or other fantasy game. The unique character classes, monsters, magic, weapons, magic items, locations, and adventures are easy to adapt and surprise your players with things they are not expecting.


Please tell everyone about the Bundles and help new gamers discover the fun and depth of the Palladium Fantasy setting. Snag one for yourself and then, please, spread the word far and wide.


Everything you need to launch a sprawling campaign using the current 2nd Edition FRPG rules. Hundreds of spells, human and inhuman player characters, magic items, monsters, heroes, 100,000 years of history in a unique world, and adventures galore all presented with Palladium’s trademark depth of story.


http://bundleofholding.com/presents/2EPalladium


2E STARTER Collection (US $17.95 – total retail value $71.50)

  • Palladium Fantasy RPG®, 2nd Edition ($13.50)

  • Dragons & Gods ($12.50)

  • Monsters & Animals ($12.50)

  • Mysteries of Magic 1: The Heart of Magic ($9)

  • The Western Empire ($13)

  • Library of Bletherad ($11; epic source for adventure)

Total PDF retail value of $71.50, all for only $17.95!


2E BONUS Collection (threshold starts at US $32.95 – retail $125 more for a total of $196.50!):

Gets you everything in the Starter Collection plus PDFs of …

  • Old Ones 2E ($12.50)

  • Adventures on the High Seas 2E ($12.50)

  • Wolfen Empire ($11)

  • Eastern Territory ($13)

  • Land of the Damned 1 – Chaos Lands ($13)

  • Land of the Damned 2 – Eternal Torment ($13)

  • Mount Nimro ($11)

  • Baalgor Wastelands ($13)

  • Northern Hinterlands ($13)

  • Bizantium and the Northern Islands ($13)

If you have never played Palladium Fantasy® 2nd Edition, it is epic, and the Starter and Bonus Collections give you plenty to get rolling. Also easily adaptable to D&D and other fantasy settings.


If you are a long time Palladium Fantasy® fan, you get the Second Edition RPG and other “core” books to have available as a digital reference for your current games. Build your PDF reference library on the cheap via the Bundle of Holding. And the sooner the better, because as more people buy, the price goes up, but it’s always an exceptional bargain.


The Palladium Fantasy 2E Bundle will END on December 2, 2024 at 11 PM Pacific Time – don’t miss out on this limited time offer!


Again, please spread the word and tell everybody about these PDF bundles. All PDF bundles are hosted in association with OneBookShelf, DriveThruRPG’s parent company, and you get your PDF bundle added directly into your DriveThruRPG library. What? You don’t have a DriveThruRPG account yet? No worries, they are FREE and very easy to set up.

Xmas Grab Bags are back!

Christmas Surprise Package – Now Shipping – 5 weeks till Christmas – offer ENDS Christmas Eve, 2024

When you factor the time it takes for you to place an order and for Palladium to process, pack and ship it, you really only have about 4½ weeks to order and ship in time for Christmas without having to pay rush fees. So don’t delay, order today and ship via Media Mail or Ground Advantage while you have the time.


The Surprise Package offers huge savings, surprises, and autographs (if you request them) that thrill the purchaser. This is the 26th year we are offering this fan favorite Christmas season bargain because we love doing it as much as you love getting them.


What is a Christmas Surprise Package?


A smile and a hug that comes in a box filled with signed game books from available Palladium staff and freelancers. It is a way for you to get physical books (and autographs if you want them) at PDF prices! $100+ worth of Palladium products for only $60 (plus shipping)! That can nab you four or more items when these days one core rule book can cost you that alone.


These Christmas Surprise Packages are our way of saying thank you for your support and showing you our love and appreciation. It’s a surprise because you never know exactly what you’re going to get or who will sign your books, because we pick from your Wish List and may surprise you with stuff you are not expecting. Extra items may include other RPGs, sourcebooks, issues of the Rifter®, novels, miniatures, prints, art books, greeting cards, T-shirts, negatives, and other items. Some books may be slightly damaged (scuffs, scratches, dings, a bent or crunched corner, etc.) so we can send you more.


No other RPG company on the planet has an offer like this. Truly the best deal in gaming to get unique and special holiday gifts for the gamers in your life, or for yourself.


Christmas Surprise Packages are not just for Christmas. Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or the Winter Solstice, or you are looking for that special gift for a birthday, anniversary, graduation, or any special occasion that falls between now and the end of the year, a Surprise Package may be the ideal way to go. You get a ton of stuff on the cheap, you can get a bunch of autographs (if you want ‘em), and you look like you spent a fortune.


This is also a great way to try that game setting you’ve wondered about – Splicers®, Dead Reign®, Chaos Earth®, Palladium Fantasy®, Nightbane®, Beyond the Supernatural, Rifts®, RECON, After the Bomb®, etc. – or to get something for your favorite Game Master. Or perhaps, to get your player group to consider a new game or setting.


Your “Wish List” is vital – the Palladium Surprise Packages are designed to simulate the joy and surprise of the Christmas Season of Giving. To do this, you submit a list of 12-15 Palladium products (or more) FOR EACH Surprise Package you order. This list of 12-15 items for EACH Grab Bag is critical, because you will not know which items we will select to send you. That makes it just like a Christmas gift because it’s a surprise. Plus, Surrogate Santa Kevin, who personally hand-picks every item for every Grab Bag, may toss in something extra like a limited edition print, or a negative or similar collector’s item, or an issue of The Rifter®, or something else he thinks you’ll enjoy.


Autographed books. For those of you who want them (which are most people), available members of the Palladium staff, and any freelancers we can lasso at the time, are happy to autograph each and every book in your Surprise Package. This is the only way many fans across the country and overseas can ever get signed books.


Send us your brief comments. There is a special form and format to fill out for Christmas Surprise Packages, including a place where you can offer your brief comments, suggestions, greetings and salutations.


First-timers are always nervous until they see the great value in their first Surprise Package. A typical Grab Bag has $100+ worth of product. Yes, often more, for only $60 plus shipping. Many people order 2-3. Some order 4-6, and some maniacs order even more! It makes sense, because it is a great way to fill holes in your own collection, treat yourself, get autographs, try new games and settings, rebuild your collection, replace worn out books, and get your gaming pals gifts. Only from PalladiumBooks.com – happy holidays. PLEASE spread the word about this great offer. Note: Search online for Palladium Surprise Package box opening videos to get an idea of what you can expect to receive. I know the Legion of Myth, among others, has such videos.


To those of you outside the USA, the X-Mas Surprise Package is a way to get books and circumvent the damn high cost of shipping from the United States, since you are getting $110 (often more) worth of product and only paying $60 plus shipping. Shipping via Priority Mail International (required for packages weighing more than four pounds) to most locations in Europe, Canada and many other countries is around $70-80 US dollars. HOWEVER, because the cost of the product is so low, that’s the equivalent of paying retail for the products and only $20-$40 for shipping. A very good deal. Plus you get autographs if you want them! X-Mas Surprise Packages are the way to go for those of you outside the USA. Please take advantage of it to get all those products you’ve wished you could get except the shipping was too prohibitive. We feel your pain. Game on!


Please spread the word. The Christmas Surprise Package is only publicized by word of mouth, on Palladium’s website, and social media, so please tell everyone you know. Buy one for every gamer you know. They make astonishing gifts for every occasion. Only from PalladiumBooks.com – happy holidays.

AVAILABLE NOW!

Yin-Sloth Jungles cover

BACK IN STOCK!

Yin-Sloth Jungles, 2nd Edition, Revised and Expanded!


The Yin-Sloth Jungles™ is a savage and unexplored wilderness filled with exotic people, strange creatures, ancient ruins, dark gods, and ancient secrets waiting to be unearthed.


– 15 O.C.C.s, all updated and expanded, making them seem brand new: Beastmaster, Holy Crusader, Jungle Fighter, Man-Catcher, the unique Tezcat and Pygmy Shamans, Spy, Undead Hunter, and Witch Hunter, among others.

– 18 Jungle People and monsters updated and expanded to feel like new, plus a few additions.

– New and expanded Shaman Chant magic.

– New and unique Pygmy Shaman Chant magic.

– New and expanded history of the Yin-Sloth Jungles.

– Expanded and clarified weapons, jungle armor, poisons, & more.

– The Orcish Empire and a few notable cities.

– Filled with great artwork by Peterson (ROG) and Mike Mumah.

– Written by Kevin Siembieda, John Klinkel, and Patrick Nowak.

– 160 pages – $24.99 retail – Cat. No. 459 – available now.

– COMING SOON! Yin-Sloth Expeditions setting and adventure book.

Now on DriveThruRPG!

NEW! Yin-Sloth Jungles, 2nd Edition Revised and Expanded PDF on DriveThruRPG.com


Yin-Sloth Jungles, 2nd Edition is now available as a PDF book on DriveThruRPG.com – and so is the original 1st Edition book. Get one or both to compare or have in your PDF reference library.

NEW! Nightbane® Automated Character Sheet


Now available on DriveThruRPG.com – The Nightbane Automated Character Sheet follows a similar format as the popular Rifts® Automated Character Sheet designed by Greg Diaczyk.

  • Microsoft Excel-based system for creating, updating, and tracking your Nightbane RPG characters quickly and easily. Once you know the system, you can have characters up and ready in 10-15 minutes!

  • Create your human Facade and Nightbane Morphus in minutes.

  • Offers a vast range of Morphus choices.

  • Select from scores of Common and Elite Nightbane Talents.

  • Spells, psionics, and more.

  • $5.00 – Available now on DriveThruRPG.com and coming soon on PalladiumBooks.com – Created by Greg Diaczyk.

300+ RPG products on DriveThru – a dozen unique world settings – one game system – endless possibilities. No other game company offers game worlds for so many different genres. Best of all, learn to play one Palladium RPG and you can play them all, because each uses the same basic core rules and combat. There are differences, but the fundamentals are the same. This also means you can bring characters, villains, monsters, powers, magic, weapons, gear, and adventure ideas from one setting into another or mash them together!


In addition to PDF titles for entire game lines like Rifts®, Palladium Fantasy®, Heroes Unlimited™, Ninjas & Superspies™, After the Bomb®, Beyond the Supernatural™, Dead Reign® (zombies), Nightbane® (Urban Fantasy), Rifts Chaos Earth®, Systems Failure™, Splicers®, RECON®, The Rifter® #1-85, and others, there are Game Master and player aids, character generators, paper minis, map packs, and FREE Previews of books like Creature Feature™, Dead Reign, Coalition Manhunters, Titan Robotics™, Rifts Bestiary Volume One, World Books, Dimension Books, and more to give you a glimpse of what’s in the book. Enjoy endless adventures across the Megaverse®.

Palladium Collectibles – at Kevin’s Online Toy & Collectibles eBay Store

I am adding new collectibles of all kinds to my Ebay store in time for the holiday season. Some are Palladium negatives, rare and out of print books, original Palladium artwork, prints, posters, as well as other collectible toys, action figures, Nightmare Before Christmas items, one-of-a-kind proofreader copies, books, and other good stuff – including Erick Wujcik’s rare and sought after Amberzine #12-15. Check in every week or so to see what’s new. All items come from Kevin Siembieda’s personal collection.


One-of-a-kind Palladium Books negatives (special and rare collectibles). Negatives are always very popular items at the Palladium Open House, Gen Con, and conventions, and are catching on as rare collectibles, unique in and of themselves. Before digital printing, pages of a book were laid out by hand on a board, and each page was photographed.

  • Each negative is truly unique, attractive, and fun to have.

  • Own a piece of Palladium Books and RPG history you will treasure.

  • Each was used to print the very book you may have in your collection (1981-2004).

  • Each is signed in silver ink by Kevin Siembieda and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity.

  • Each negative is a one-of-a-kind work of art (on rare occasions, two-of-a-kind if a page or section of pages were replaced or a second edition was made).

  • Looks great matted or framed! Fits an 8×10 inch matt opening. Each neg is roughly 8 ½ x 11 inches.

  • Prices vary depending on the title, the art, and quality of the negative. Note: Many have scratches, or blemishes, and/or an opaque medium on the negative. Still, they look great and are a piece of RPG history. We recommend you carefully examine the photographs of each item to avoid disappointment. The negatives of many books are sold out or were never available.

CLOSING THOUGHTS

Getting ready for the holidays


I knew the holidays were coming up fast, but it really struck me when someone on television said “13 days till Thanksgiving and the holiday buying season kicks off with Black Friday and Cyber-Monday.” Both of which are expected to break sales records. Yikes, that also means record amounts of shipping.


I have some of my Christmas buying done, but I need to jump on it pronto. I like to get most of my shopping (online and in physical stores) done BEFORE Black Friday and wrap it all up by the end of Cyber-Monday. That way I don’t have to worry about products selling out, shipping delays, or thronging crowds inside stores.


We’ve tried to make your Christmas/holiday buying easy by offering the Christmas Surprise early this year. One Surprise Package is the perfect super-gift for the special gamer ($100+ product, often more, for $60 plus shipping and autographed if you request it), or maybe provides 2-3 books for a few different gamers. That’s physical books at digital prices! Also ideal for birthday and anniversary presents happening this time of the year. Game Masters, use the Surprise Package to get new books to fuel your campaign or to try new settings.


The Palladium Fantasy 2E – Second Edition (current rules) Bundle of Holding is a way to build your PDF library on the cheap or makes a nice digital gift as well as a digital reference for yourself. This super-saver PDF sale is off to a great start. Take advantage of it.


Please spread the word about the Surprise Package deal and the Fantasy Bundle of Holding (and our videos!), because we only advertise them by word of mouth and on our website. We hope as many gamers as possible can benefit from these holiday specials. In fact, the Surprise Packages are very much designed to be our gift to you, our loyal fans, new and old.


Now enjoy the new Surprise Package comments below before you do a little holiday shopping to beat the crowds.


– Kevin Siembieda, Publisher, Game Designer, Friend, and Surrogate Santa

Surprise Package Comments from fans like you

Every year we like to post a selection of the comments we get from Surprise Package customers. It’s a nice acknowledgement and thank you to them (you know who you are) and you enjoy reading them. I read each and every comment that comes in the Surprise Packages, and they always brighten our day. We all appreciate your kind words, suggestions, and insights. In fact, the idea to do hardcover editions of core rule books came from fan comments in the Grab Bags. We get a lot so we can only offer a sampling of these comments in the Weekly Updates.


Our heartfelt thanks to all of you who have stuck with Palladium through thick and thin and now these new strange times. Please use our games to find escape from your day to day grind and worries. Use them to bring a little joy, laughter, and adventure to the holiday season and beyond.


Your comments and support mean the world to all of us. Thank you for making us smile and feel valued. As always, I have tried to write a short response [in brackets] to each comment. Happy holidays.


– Kevin Siembieda (and the Palladium Crew)

J.K. in Lake Park, Iowa, writes: Thank you for continuing to offer the Christmas Surprise Package and for all the work done all year. Happy holidays.


[Our pleasure, J.K., and thank you for appreciating our hard work. A lot of that work has been behind the scenes, but it will become evident next year when we blow your socks off with … well, you’ll see. Happy holidays and here is to an epic New Year! – Kevin]



J.H. in Zephyrhills, Florida, writes: Kevin, Sean, and the rest of the Palladium crew, thank you for the hours of role-playing. Since last year I have been running a Vampire Kingdoms campaign and my players are loving it. There is nothing like Palladium Books!


[Wow, J.H., that sounds very exciting, and dangerous. Awesome. Keep up the fun and excitement. – Kevin]



R.M.L. in Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada, writes: Second year ordering the Grab Bag. It’s a fantastic deal I now look forward to. Thank you to the entire Palladium staff and happy holidays.


[Glad to see you back for a 2024 Surprise Package, R.M.L. It is a fantastic deal. Enjoy and happy holidays. – Kevin]



M.M.C. in Cross Plains, Tennessee, writes: Been a fan since The Rifter® #1 came out. Love you guys since the 1990s.


[Thank you M.M.C., we love you and our fans too. Keep your imagination burning bright. – Kevin]



A.W. in Mountain Grove, Missouri, writes (in part): This will be my second Surprise Package. The first one arrived so soon after ordering, I wasn’t expecting it. Which makes it one of the best birthday gifts I’ve ever gotten myself! And I think I’ve enough time to get this one by my birthday as well. I asked for something that would go nicely with my original Nightspawn RPG, thinking I might get a Nightbane® sourcebook or something. Instead I got an autographed, old Nightspawn poster and a handwritten thank you note from Kevin Siembieda himself! Thank you! I can’t wait to see the next one …


[Awesome and happy birthday, A.W., from all of us at Palladium Books. I hope you enjoy the other two on their way to you. Not all Grab Bags can have a fun surprise like that first one, and value fluctuates, but we aim to please and try to make each one fun and satisfying. – Kevin]



K.C. in Seattle, Washington, writes: My first [Surprise Package] box was great! You guys are awesome. TMNT was my first and favorite. I can’t wait to get my Kickstarter books next year. Thank you for all the great work.


[Thank you, K.C., for your kind words. You will not be disappointed with any of the TMNT & Other Strangeness RPG Kickstarter rewards. Sean has knocked it all out of the park with everything, but the books are my favorite. Their layout, the rules clarifications, the full color artwork, the pinup/tribute pages of new art by comic book and gaming legends, the fun remembrances, history, all of it is breathtaking and eminently playable as a standalone RPG or with Heroes Unlimited or After the Bomb®. My thanks to Sean, you and everyone who helped make the Kickstarter a success. – Kevin]

M.H. in Avon, Indiana, writes (in part): Right now my group is playing a lot of Rifts® and Nightbane®. We have some Heroes Unlimited coming up too. Honestly, I’ve enjoyed every Palladium game I have played … I look forward to every new product and reprint as they become available. I hope you all have a great holiday season.


[Thank you for the kind words M.H., we are happy to see you have so much gaming on your schedule. Keep those imaginations burning bright. – Kevin]



T.B. in St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada, writes: As a Canadian and one who finds it hard to find the books on this side of the border, I look forward to this promotion each year and try to fill in the missing pieces of my Palladium library. Have been a player and G.M of the Palladium Megaverse® for over 30 years.


[T.B., this is just one of the reasons we do these Surprise Packages. We’re glad we can help to bring you more gaming. Enjoy. – Kevin]



J.B. in Jerome, Idaho, writes: I’m super-excited for more interviews on the Glitterbois. Thank you for everything you guys do.


[Thank you, J.B., for your patronage and kindness. Happy holidays and game on! – Kevin]



P.B. in Nashville, Tennessee, writes: Long live the Palladium Megaverse®! You guys are the best. Favorites: Palladium Fantasy, Heroes Unlimited, Ninjas & Superspies, and Nightbane.


[Right back at you, P.B., and happy holidays! – Kevin]

Palladium Books® Weekly Update – November 7, 2024

Written by pb_addy on . Posted in Weekly Updates.

Weekly Update

ONE GAME SYSTEM – EVERY GENRE – COUNTLESS WORLDS – ENDLESS ADVENTURE

Palladium Books® Weekly Update

November 7, 2024

I hope everyone experienced a happy and fun Halloween. Time sure flies because now we’re all thinking about Thanksgiving/Black Friday (only 3 weeks away!) and Christmas, a mere 6 and a half weeks away. Yikes. So get those Surprise Package orders in as soon as possible to avoid the holiday rush. Mail and shipping gets crazy and slows down after Black Friday.


Hundreds of you enjoyed the recent DriveThruRPG.com Halloween Horror Sale and have also been snapping up the digital Nightbane® Automated Character Sheet which people are enjoying. Its timely release has also reminded gamers about the Rifts® and Palladium Fantasy Interactive Character Sheets and Fantasy NPC Sheet. See more details on DriveThruRPG.

6 Weeks til Christmas – The Palladium Christmas Surprise Package – $100+ in product for $60 plus shipping – available now! This weekend saw a sharp increase in Surprise Package orders. It’s smart to order early because you beat the Christmas rush and it gives you the opportunity to order additional surprise Packages over the coming months and spread out the cost. As always, gamers are loving their Surprise Package. Here is one customer’s comment:


A.W. in Mountain Grove, Missouri, had this to say (in part): “This will be my second Surprise Package this year! The first one arrived so soon after ordering, I wasn’t expecting it. Which makes it one of the best birthday gifts I’ve ever received … I will definitely be buying a few more of these before the year is out.”


A typical Surprise Package nets you 4-6 books (and/or other items). Kevin Siembieda and available staff are happy to sign your books if you request it. That’s 4-6 books for what you pay for a single core rule book from most companies! So we are talking about big savings and fun.


Remember, the Surprise Package is the perfect gamer gift for the holidays, birthdays, and anniversaries; something special at a low price! Or treat yourself to RPGs and sourcebooks you’ve been meaning to try, or replace battered old books. Don’t limit yourself to just books either, everything in the Palladium store can be considered for your Surprise Package – miniatures, poker decks, art prints, bookmarks, coffee mugs, greeting cards, and other products. See more details by clicking the link below and learn why the Christmas Surprise Package has been a fan favorite for 26 years. No other game company does anything like this. Limited time offer.

FUN! Surprise Package Comments can be found at the end of the Update. Every holiday season I (Kevin) share a selection of Surprise Package comments from gamers like you. I do so to give a shout out for their (and your) support and because I know many of you enjoy reading them nearly as much as we do. We can’t post them all, but we share as many as we can. They are located at the end of each Weekly Update.

History of Palladium Books on YouTube

News! Palladium Books® YouTube Channel offers the Official History of Palladium Books. A bonus episode went up last Thursday talking about how the Christmas Surprise Package offer came into being and became a holiday tradition that makes gamers worldwide smile like children on Christmas morning. Many many more chats are coming every other week. Each one a friendly and candid conversation that people are loving. J-M Defoggi and I, Kevin Siembieda, reveal the origins and inside scoop behind the creation of your favorite Palladium role-playing games and sourcebooks. Presented in rough chronological order.


I’m having a blast and love that you folks are loving these chats. I think we have finished recording around 30 or so episodes. Watch for a new one every other week. In the future we’ll be delving into tales of the Defilers and interviews with notable Palladium Books creators like Sean Owen Roberson, Matthew Clements, Matthew Balent, Ramon K. Perez, Freddie E. Williams II, and others. Please offer suggestions about topics of discussion for our future consideration. Thank you.

News! Glitterbois podcasts – Rifts® Part Two was energetic and fun. It should be getting posted any time now (if not available already). I love doing these chats and you all seem to be loving them, too.

SPECIAL Event! Legion of Myth – 24 hours of gaming fun to raise money for the Wounded Warrior Project – Veterans Day, November 11, 2024 – ALL proceeds go to the Project. Palladium’s very own Sean Owen Roberson will be part of this annual charity event for the second year in a row. This time he’ll be playing a 5 hour game of Paranoia with HeathenDog and a few other players starting at noon Eastern Time. Hey, if you ask me, it’s worth a few bucks just to keep Max Liao and HeathenDog up for 24 hours straight. Support our veterans and enjoy some gaming fun and silliness at the same time.


**Special Note: Howdy rifters, this is Sean. Some of you may not know, but I served in the US military and experienced first hand the sacrifices that so many men and women in uniform make for their country. Because of this, I do my best to support veterans, first responders, and their families whenever possible. This year is something more lighthearted — I’ve never played Paranoia, but I hear it’s crazy fun. So if you have time, please tune in and support the cause.  Thanks again for all of your support!**

News! Legion of Myth chats about magic and super powers – Last Sunday, Sean and I had a 4+ hour marathon chat with the two maniacs at Legion of Myth about using magic, superpowers, and psionics in various Palladium RPG settings. This episode and the How to Run a Halloween Horror One-Shot episode offer a lot to Game Masters. That is especially true of the Horror chat, which I thought offered outstanding tips and advice applicable to RPG campaigns as well as one-shot adventures. Sean and I are happy to share our insights about gaming and offer tips to players and Game Masters alike. Check out all our chats.

News! What’s hot at Palladium this week – Palladium Fantasy® is still sizzling hot and we’re about to make it even hotter next week. Meanwhile, Rifts® always remains strong, but we are seeing Chaos Earth®, Heroes Unlimited, and Nightbane® are picking up steam. Thank you for your support and keep the orders coming.

Rifts for Savage Worlds: Europa Kickstarter

News! Coming November 12, 2024 – Rifts® for Savage Worlds: Europa Kickstarter by Pinnacle Entertainment – Even if you don’t use the Savage Worlds game system you may want to check it out. Why? Because it fills in the blanks about Rifts® Europe (Italy, Germany, France, England, etc.) as of 109 PA. This is ALL “official” world and source material authorized and approved by Palladium Books (specifically Sean Roberson and Kevin Siembieda). Which means you can easily adapt the world information, gear, maps, adventures, and more into your Palladium Rifts campaign or start a new one. Learn more by clicking the link below to see the Rifts® Europa Kickstarter preview page. Game on and enjoy.

Xmas Grab Bags are back!

Christmas Surprise Package – Now Shipping

6 weeks till Christmas

When you factor the time it takes for you to place an order and for Palladium to process, pack and ship it, you really only have about 5-5½ weeks to order and ship in time for Christmas without having to pay rush fees. So don’t delay, order today and ship via Media Mail or Ground Advantage while you have the time.


The Surprise Package offers huge savings, surprises, and autographs (if you request them) that thrill the purchaser. This is the 26th year we are offering this fan favorite Christmas season bargain because we love doing it as much as you love getting them.


What is a Christmas Surprise Package?


A smile and a hug that comes in a box filled with signed game books from available Palladium staff and freelancers. It is a way for you to get physical books (and autographs if you want them) at PDF prices! $100+ worth of Palladium products for only $60 (plus shipping)! That can nab you four or more items when these days one core rule book can cost you that alone.


These Christmas Surprise Packages are our way of saying thank you for your support and showing you our love and appreciation. It’s a surprise because you never know exactly what you’re going to get or who will sign your books, because we pick from your Wish List and may surprise you with stuff you are not expecting. Extra items may include other RPGs, sourcebooks, issues of the Rifter®, novels, miniatures, prints, art books, greeting cards, T-shirts, negatives, and other items. Some books may be slightly damaged (scuffs, scratches, dings, a bent or crunched corner, etc.) so we can send you more.


No other RPG company on the planet has an offer like this. Truly the best deal in gaming to get unique and special holiday gifts for the gamers in your life, or for yourself.


Christmas Surprise Packages are not just for Christmas. Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or the Winter Solstice, or you are looking for that special gift for a birthday, anniversary, graduation, or any special occasion that falls between now and the end of the year, a Surprise Package may be the ideal way to go. You get a ton of stuff on the cheap, you can get a bunch of autographs (if you want ‘em), and you look like you spent a fortune.


This is also a great way to try that game setting you’ve wondered about – Splicers®, Dead Reign®, Chaos Earth®, Palladium Fantasy®, Nightbane®, Beyond the Supernatural, Rifts®, RECON, After the Bomb®, etc. – or to get something for your favorite Game Master. Or perhaps, to get your player group to consider a new game or setting.


Your “Wish List” is vital – the Palladium Surprise Packages are designed to simulate the joy and surprise of the Christmas Season of Giving. To do this, you submit a list of 12-15 Palladium products (or more) FOR EACH Surprise Package you order. This list of 12-15 items for EACH Grab Bag is critical, because you will not know which items we will select to send you. That makes it just like a Christmas gift because it’s a surprise. Plus, Surrogate Santa Kevin, who personally hand-picks every item for every Grab Bag, may toss in something extra like a limited edition print, or a negative or similar collector’s item, or an issue of The Rifter®, or something else he thinks you’ll enjoy.


Autographed books. For those of you who want them (which are most people), available members of the Palladium staff, and any freelancers we can lasso at the time, are happy to autograph each and every book in your Surprise Package. This is the only way many fans across the country and overseas can ever get signed books.


Send us your brief comments. There is a special form and format to fill out for Christmas Surprise Packages, including a place where you can offer your brief comments, suggestions, greetings and salutations.


First-timers are always nervous until they see the great value in their first Surprise Package. A typical Grab Bag has $100+ worth of product. Yes, often more, for only $60 plus shipping. Many people order 2-3. Some order 4-6, and some maniacs order even more! It makes sense, because it is a great way to fill holes in your own collection, treat yourself, get autographs, try new games and settings, rebuild your collection, replace worn out books, and get your gaming pals gifts. Only from PalladiumBooks.com – happy holidays. PLEASE spread the word about this great offer. Note: Search online for Palladium Surprise Package box opening videos to get an idea of what you can expect to receive. I know the Legion of Myth, among others, has such videos.


To those of you outside the USA, the X-Mas Surprise Package is a way to get books and circumvent the damn high cost of shipping from the United States, since you are getting $110 (often more) worth of product and only paying $60 plus shipping. Shipping via Priority Mail International (required for packages weighing more than four pounds) to most locations in Europe, Canada and many other countries is around $70-80 US dollars. HOWEVER, because the cost of the product is so low, that’s the equivalent of paying retail for the products and only $20-$40 for shipping. A very good deal. Plus you get autographs if you want them! X-Mas Surprise Packages are the way to go for those of you outside the USA. Please take advantage of it to get all those products you’ve wished you could get except the shipping was too prohibitive. We feel your pain. Game on!


Please spread the word. The Christmas Surprise Package is only publicized by word of mouth, on Palladium’s website, and social media, so please tell everyone you know. Buy one for every gamer you know. They make astonishing gifts for every occasion. Only from PalladiumBooks.com – happy holidays.

GiveSendGo Fundraising for BRIC needs our help

Some of you have supported this good cause before. It is a charity close to the heart of me and Sean, and every dollar goes direct to the people who need it, which makes a HUGE difference in saving lives in the Congo. Even a small donation is greatly appreciated, so please give if you can. Thank you so very much for your past financial support of RIGHT’s efforts to feed and protect the people rescued and sustained by the lifesaving BRIC project.


Through your donations, BRIC has been able to install an armored security gate, build enclosure walls, construct a building for offices and classrooms, and an enlarge a stage where students perform the creative, self-help exercises learned through BRIC seminars, as well as music and dance performances that inform and uplift the community. Most recently, they have built a small structure with a toilet and shower, as well as installed basic electricity to the compound. All of this is in addition to rescuing and rehabilitating those once forced into service as child soldiers and worse by rogue warlords and bandits.


These life sustaining improvements could not happen without your prayers and financial assistance since 2022, but our crusade to save and improve the lives of the people in the region is far from complete.


Feuding rebel warlords dangerously close to the homes of the people of Goma continue to control many roads, disrupt and block food supply lines, and harass the people. This has forced many citizens of Goma to turn to BRIC for help. Without that help, they must resort to foraging for food in the rebel-filled forest where they risk their lives or capture. Children left alone while parents forage for food are at great risk of being kidnapped and trafficked. BRIC allows fathers and mothers to drop their children at the enclosure. At this safe haven the children are fed with limited supplies of food, given school lessons, and provided other help as needed.


The Democratic Republic of Congo is currently facing one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises. People are displaced, starving, and homeless. Making safe havens like BRIC necessary for survival. Please join me (Kevin Siembieda) and Sean Owen Roberson by helping in any way you can. Your donations, small or large, will save lives. Thank you.

AVAILABLE NOW!

Yin-Sloth Jungles cover

BACK IN STOCK!

Yin-Sloth Jungles, 2nd Edition, Revised and Expanded!


The Yin-Sloth Jungles™ is a savage and unexplored wilderness filled with exotic people, strange creatures, ancient ruins, dark gods, and ancient secrets waiting to be unearthed.


– 15 O.C.C.s, all updated and expanded, making them seem brand new: Beastmaster, Holy Crusader, Jungle Fighter, Man-Catcher, the unique Tezcat and Pygmy Shamans, Spy, Undead Hunter, and Witch Hunter, among others.

– 18 Jungle People and monsters updated and expanded to feel like new, plus a few additions.

– New and expanded Shaman Chant magic.

– New and unique Pygmy Shaman Chant magic.

– New and expanded history of the Yin-Sloth Jungles.

– Expanded and clarified weapons, jungle armor, poisons, & more.

– The Orcish Empire and a few notable cities.

– Filled with great artwork by Peterson (ROG) and Mike Mumah.

– Written by Kevin Siembieda, John Klinkel, and Patrick Nowak.

– 160 pages – $24.99 retail – Cat. No. 459 – available now.

– COMING SOON! Yin-Sloth Expeditions setting and adventure book.

Now on DriveThruRPG!

NEW! Yin-Sloth Jungles, 2nd Edition Revised and Expanded PDF on DriveThruRPG.com


Yin-Sloth Jungles, 2nd Edition is now available as a PDF book on DriveThruRPG.com – and so is the original 1st Edition book. Get one or both to compare or have in your PDF reference library.

NEW! Nightbane® Automated Character Sheet


Now available on DriveThruRPG.com – The Nightbane Automated Character Sheet follows a similar format as the popular Rifts® Automated Character Sheet designed by Greg Diaczyk.

  • Microsoft Excel-based system for creating, updating, and tracking your Nightbane RPG characters quickly and easily. Once you know the system, you can have characters up and ready in 10-15 minutes!

  • Create your human Facade and Nightbane Morphus in minutes.

  • Offers a vast range of Morphus choices.

  • Select from scores of Common and Elite Nightbane Talents.

  • Spells, psionics, and more.

  • $5.00 – Available now on DriveThruRPG.com and coming soon on PalladiumBooks.com – Created by Greg Diaczyk.

300+ RPG products on DriveThru – a dozen unique world settings – one game system – endless possibilities. No other game company offers game worlds for so many different genres. Best of all, learn to play one Palladium RPG and you can play them all, because each uses the same basic core rules and combat. There are differences, but the fundamentals are the same. This also means you can bring characters, villains, monsters, powers, magic, weapons, gear, and adventure ideas from one setting into another or mash them together!


In addition to PDF titles for entire game lines like Rifts®, Palladium Fantasy®, Heroes Unlimited™, Ninjas & Superspies™, After the Bomb®, Beyond the Supernatural™, Dead Reign® (zombies), Nightbane® (Urban Fantasy), Rifts Chaos Earth®, Systems Failure™, Splicers®, RECON®, The Rifter® #1-85, and others, there are Game Master and player aids, character generators, paper minis, map packs, and FREE Previews of books like Creature Feature™, Dead Reign, Coalition Manhunters, Titan Robotics™, Rifts Bestiary Volume One, World Books, Dimension Books, and more to give you a glimpse of what’s in the book. Enjoy endless adventures across the Megaverse®.

Palladium Collectibles – at Kevin’s Online Toy & Collectibles eBay Store

I am adding new collectibles of all kinds to my Ebay store in time for the holiday season. Some are Palladium negatives, rare and out of print books, original Palladium artwork, prints, posters, as well as other collectible toys, action figures, Nightmare Before Christmas items, one-of-a-kind proofreader copies, books, and other good stuff – including Erick Wujcik’s rare and sought after Amberzine #12-15. Check in every week or so to see what’s new. All items come from Kevin Siembieda’s personal collection.


One-of-a-kind Palladium Books negatives (special and rare collectibles). Negatives are always very popular items at the Palladium Open House, Gen Con, and conventions, and are catching on as rare collectibles, unique in and of themselves. Before digital printing, pages of a book were laid out by hand on a board, and each page was photographed.

  • Each negative is truly unique, attractive, and fun to have.

  • Own a piece of Palladium Books and RPG history you will treasure.

  • Each was used to print the very book you may have in your collection (1981-2004).

  • Each is signed in silver ink by Kevin Siembieda and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity.

  • Each negative is a one-of-a-kind work of art (on rare occasions, two-of-a-kind if a page or section of pages were replaced or a second edition was made).

  • Looks great matted or framed! Fits an 8×10 inch matt opening. Each neg is roughly 8 ½ x 11 inches.

  • Prices vary depending on the title, the art, and quality of the negative. Note: Many have scratches, or blemishes, and/or an opaque medium on the negative. Still, they look great and are a piece of RPG history. We recommend you carefully examine the photographs of each item to avoid disappointment. The negatives of many books are sold out or were never available.

CLOSING THOUGHTS

Please don’t despair


Hmmm, it seems like people are either delighted or in despair over the election results.The media and the political ads have whipped many people into a frenzy or blind panic. Keep your heads, stay frosty, and don’t jump to any conclusions.Wait and see what unfolds and think positive. I, for one, believe in us – all of us – the American people (and especially gamers!) regardless of our political affiliations, gender, income, or color of our skin.


Find a way to get your footing back by taking a step away from politics and the Doomsdaysayers. Take a nice walk in nature or go to some special event. Lose yourself in a good game, book, comic book, movie, streaming, or a fun video. (Dare I say one of Palladium’s, the Glittterbois, or Legion of Myth videos?) And whatever you do, please don’t let fear and divisiveness ruin your holidays. Find solace and sanctuary in prayer and/or meditation and remember, we all have more in common than differences. Find laughter and joy wherever you can and hold on to it.


I went to my High School 50th Anniversary last Saturday. School was not a great experience for me. Being a nerd, gamer, and comic book creator was not cool in the 1970s, especially in the Motor City. I was teased and bullied and treated as an outsider most of my school years as if I were Harry Potter in a world of Muggles. It was neither a kind nor pleasant experience. Still, I made the best of it and found friendship and happiness where I could. As a result, I wasn’t sure how I would feel about attending the High School reunion, but I went to see.


You know what? I had a great time. Everyone was pleasant and welcoming. There were old friends I had forgotten about, many of my classmates remembered me as being a gifted artist and were absolutely thrilled I followed my dreams into creative pursuits. I found that alone lovely and endearing. We shared fond memories and talked about favorite teachers, and what we did after high school: college, work, families, travel, etc.


There was no talk of politics. It didn’t matter who might be a Republican or Democrat or anything else. In those few hours, we were one. We were all happy to see each other and share our lives and good memories. We embraced the good and each other. It was a nice and joyful experience. If only such camaraderie, good cheer, and generosity of spirit could be captured and held in our hearts every hour of the day and not let politics, fear, hate, and bias come between our humanity and commonality.


Powerbrokers of every kind sweet talk and use divisiveness and fear to separate us in order to gain power for themselves. They seek to drive us to see ourselves as “them and us.” Please don’t let that happen. We are we.


The beauty of our imperfect America is that we are free. Free to have different ideas and opinions. Free to speak our minds. Free to pursue our dreams. Free to learn and grow and better ourselves. Our strength is that we are one people. A people who more often than not, come to each other’s aid in times of need. America and other countries are not always fair, equal, or just – no place in the world is – but our nation, our democracy, our unity is special.


None of us are perfect, far from it. Our nation is not perfect either, because it is a reflection of ourselves with our equal capacity for good and evil, love and hate, kindness and cruelty, justice and injustice, generosity and greed. That’s the duality of humans that has haunted philosophers and individuals throughout the ages. Our imperfection and differences are part of our humanity and our singular uniqueness as human beings.


Together we can make our nation better by starting with ourselves. Strive to become the better person we all want to be – more tolerant, accepting of others, fair, just, giving, and kind without a “them vs us” mentality biasing our thoughts and choices. All without destroying everything we’ve accomplished, despite the bad and the ugly that tarnishes those accomplishments. To forgive our failings and build upon the good. Don’t expect more from our nation than we are willing to do ourselves. This is hard as hell, but it’s doable and worth the work.


Every day is a new start. Every day is a new beginning that we have the power to change within ourselves. Be the light. Take the step to be the person who tries to listen and understand others despite our differences. Strive to be the person you want to be. One who does not let their fears and prejudices rule them. A person who sees the good and the beautiful and strives to be the best they can be in each new day. Everyday. As a force of change and goodness within yourself, your good example will effect the positive changes you seek in the world. Some days you’ll be more successful than others, but when you stumble or fail, tomorrow is a new day and a new beginning. Life is too short and wondrous to live it in hate, anger, or fear. Be the best person you can be and the world will follow, one person at a time, until there is a multitude. I know this to be true. Be the light.


I didn’t mean to jump on a soap box, but I am seeing so many people scared, despairing, and upset that I wanted to try to say something that might bring some peace of mind to somebody. I hope I haven’t offended anyone. I hope my words have helped in any small way possible.


A little fun and warmth follows in the Surprise Package Comments below. I’ll provide more in every Weekly Update into the New Year. And please, use our games to find some peace, joy, and escape from the noise of the real world. It’s good to laugh.


– Kevin Siembieda, Publisher, Game Designer, Friend, and Surrogate Santa

Surprise Package Comments from fans like you

Every year we like to post a selection of the comments we get from Surprise Package customers. It’s a nice acknowledgement and thank you to them (you know who you are) and you enjoy reading them. I read each and every comment that comes in the Surprise Packages, and they always brighten our day. We all appreciate your kind words, suggestions, and insights. In fact, the idea to do hardcover editions of core rule books came from fan comments in the Grab Bags. We get a lot so we can only offer a sampling of these comments in the Weekly Updates.


Our heartfelt thanks to all of you who have stuck with Palladium through thick and thin and now these new strange times. Please use our games to find escape from your day to day grind and worries. Use them to bring a little joy, laughter, and adventure to the holiday season and beyond.


Your comments and support mean the world to all of us. Thank you for making us smile and feel valued. As always, I have tried to write a short response [in brackets] to each comment. Happy holidays.

B.W. in Chandler, Arizona, writes: Round two. Go, Guys! Thank you so much for the first Surprise Package box. I may not have 30 years of gaming memories, but Palladium is one of those wonderful memories from back in the day. I’ll be back in a couple of weeks.


[Hey B.W., glad you are enjoying the Surprise Package deal so much that you’re buying your second one and already planning a third. It’s smart to spread out the cost of your holiday purchases and you save money by shipping Media Mail before the Black Friday thru Christmas frenzy. Game on! – Kevin]



J.B. in Meridan, Idaho, writes: I love the games you guys come up with and have had so much fun playing them. I want you guys to continue making them.


[Glad you love our games, J.B. Your continued support and spreading the word about Palladium’s fun game settings as well as special offers like the Christmas Surprise Package will help us to continue to make new books. Thank you and happy holidays. – Kevin]



C.S. in Midwest City, Oklahoma, writes: I am soooo stoked about this [my first Surprise Package]! My friend recommended this and said it is awesome. Been a Rifts® fan since the ‘90s. Best wishes.


[These Grab Bags are awesome, C.S., so be stoked. I hope you enjoy your package. You have a good friend who told you about them. May your holiday season be full of nice surprises and awesomeness. – Kevin]



J.N. Jr. in McMinnville, Tennessee, writes: I love the work you guys do. Please keep it up.


[You’ve got it, J.N. In fact, we intend to blow people’s minds with everything Sean and I have planned over the next few years. Bwahaha … um, I mean thanks and happy holidays. – Kevin]



A.G. in Glenmore Park, Australia, writes: Armageddon Unlimited in particular interests me, seems like I could milk some cool stuff from it for my TMNT games. Also Rifts® Conversion Book One so I can blend my games across the different worlds. Love your work! Thanks for all your gold!


[Shucks, A.G., you are very welcome. All good choices. Enjoy the Surprise Package and keep your imagination burning bright. – Kevin]



W.M.C. in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, writes (in part): Wow, is it that time of year already? My favourite game was, is, and will probably always be Rifts® … With the god awful exchange and shipping rates to Canada this is the best way for me to acquire new (and rare) Palladium books. I am really looking forward to a number of your upcoming releases … I can’t wait to see what else you all have cooking for us.


[It is that time of year, WMC, and it’s smart of you and anyone living outside the USA to take advantage of it as I always make it worth your while. As for upcoming releases like the TMNT & Other Strangeness RPG Redux editions, Rifts® Bestiary Vol. Two, Rifts® Antarctica (epic!), and so much more, 2025 is gonna be an exciting year for everyone. – Kevin]



R.L. in Banning, California, writes: I loved TMNT RPG and Macross II back in the day. We played them the most, and then Rifts®. I miss TMNT and Macross a lot. Love Palladium, you guys have been the best – forget the rest!


[Thanks for the love and high praise, R.L. Um, I sure hope you know about the astoundingly gorgeous, full color TMNT & Other Strangeness RPG Redux edition books! They are completely re-mastered, full color, and include full page tribute art and written remembrances by comic book and gaming legends. See our preorder page for more info. As for Macross II, who knows what the future may hold? Game on! – Kevin]

B.A. in Vancouver, Washington, writes: I started with TMNT in middle school, but Rifts® made me a lifelong Palladium fan. You guys have gotten me through a lot of hard times! Thank you so much for decades of support for gaming and being such wonderful people.


[You sound pretty wonderful yourself, B.A.. Gosh, your kind words are making me blush. We put our hearts and souls into our games and genuinely care about our audience, is all. Glad you appreciate that dedication and hard work. Game on. – Kevin]



S.M. in Fort Wayne, Indiana, writes (in part): Love Palladium’s games and the ideas they inspire.


[Thank you S.M., we love inspiring others to be creative and to follow their dreams. – Kevin]

Palladium Books® Weekly Update – October 31, 2024

Written by pb_addy on . Posted in Weekly Updates.

Weekly Update

ONE GAME SYSTEM – EVERY GENRE – COUNTLESS WORLDS – ENDLESS ADVENTURE

Palladium Books® Weekly Update

October 31, 2024

Happy Halloween! Be safe out there when trick or treating with the kids or going to parties tonight and over the weekend. There’s a lot of news and updates. Enjoy.


SALE FINAL Hours – DriveThruRPG.com Halloween Horror Sale. This is your last chance to stock up on thousands of horror RPG products as PDF books from Palladium and many other companies. Beyond the Supernatural, Dead Reign®, Nightbane®, and other Palladium titles across the Megaverse® with an element of horror are all part of the sale. And it’s not just haunting Palladium PDF titles, but those of Chaosium, Pinnacle, and dozens of other RPG companies to get your scare on. Check it out before it’s too late. Sale ends 10:00 AM Eastern Time Friday morning, November 1.

Also available on DriveThruRPG.com – The Nightbane® Automated Character Sheet! It follows a similar format as the popular Rifts® Automated Character Sheet designed by Greg Diaczyk. There’s also a Palladium Fantasy Interactive Character Sheet and NPC Sheet. See more details below or on DriveThruRPG.

SALE! The best deal in gaming – Palladium Christmas Surprise Package – $100+ in product for $60 plus shipping – available now! But don’t take our word for it.


A.W. in Mountain Grove, Missouri, had this to say (in part): “This will be my second Surprise Package this year! The first one arrived so soon after ordering, I wasn’t expecting it. Which makes it one of the best birthday gifts I’ve ever received … I will definitely be buying a few more of these before the year is out.”


W.M.C. in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, said (in part): “Wow. Is it that time of year already? Love these Christmas packages. With the godawful exchange and shipping rates to Canada, this is the best way to acquire new (and rare) Palladium book titles.


R.M. in Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada, writes: “Second year ordering the Grab Bag. It’s a fantastic deal I now look forward to. Thank you and happy holidays!”


A typical Surprise Package nets you 4-6 books, signed by Kevin Siembieda and available staff if you request it. That’s 4-6 books for what you’d usually pay for ONE core rule book! The Surprise Package is the perfect gamer gift for the holidays, birthdays, and anniversaries; something special and all on the cheap! You can also treat yourself with books you’ve been wanting, or try new game settings, or replace battered old books. Don’t limit yourself to just books either, everything in the Palladium store can be considered for your Surprise Package – miniatures, poker decks, art prints, bookmarks, coffee mugs, greeting cards, and other products. See more details by clicking the link below and learn why the Christmas Surprise Package has been a fan favorite for 26 years. No other game company does anything like this. Limited time offer.

News! Join Kevin Siembieda and Sean Owen Roberson for a “live chat” about magic and psionics on Legion of Myth – Sunday, November 3, at 3:00 PM Eastern Time. Join the fun. Do we need to say more?

News! Glitterbois podcast – Rifts® Part One and Two coming soon. We believe the Rifts® Part One podcast with Kevin Siembieda and the guys has been made available or will be posted soon (this weekend?). Meanwhile, Kevin and the Glitterbois have already recorded Rifts® Part Two so it should go live in a week or two. We’re delighted you are enjoying these podcasts, as well as the chats on Legion of Myth and Palladium’s YouTube video history of Palladium Books with Kevin Siembieda and J-M DeFoggi.

History of Palladium Books on YouTube

News! Palladium Books® YouTube Channel offers the Official History of Palladium Books. Two episodes are available now with many more coming every other week (20+ are in the can). These friendly and candid conversations are already a hit with fans, which makes us all very happy, especially Kevin and J-M.


The first 24 or so episodes recount the history of Palladium Books in loose chronological order by game line. Watch for more fun in the months ahead including Tales of the Defilers and interviews with notable Palladium Books creators like Sean Owen Roberson, Matthew Clements, Matthew Balent, Ramon K. Perez, Freddie E. Williams II, and others. Please offer suggestions about topics of discussion for our future consideration. Thank you.

News! What’s hot at Palladium this week – Palladium Fantasy® remains crazy hot this week along with all things Rifts® and Dead Reign®. Among Surprise Packages we are seeing requests for all our game lines across the board, but particularly Rifts®, Chaos Earth®, Palladium Fantasy, Heroes Unlimited, Ninjas & Superspies, Systems Failure, Dead Reign® and Nightbane®. Thank you for your support and keep the orders coming.

Rifts for Savage Worlds: Europa Kickstarter

News! Coming November 12, 2024 – Rifts® for Savage Worlds: Europa Kickstarter by Pinnacle Entertainment – Even if you don’t use the Savage Worlds game system you may want to check it out. Why? Because it fills in the blanks about Rifts® Europe (Italy, Germany, France, England, etc.) as of 109 PA. This is ALL “official” world and source material authorized and approved by Palladium Books (specifically Sean Roberson and Kevin Siembieda). Which means you can easily adapt the world information, gear, maps, adventures, and more into your Palladium Rifts campaign or start a new one. Learn more by clicking the link below to see the Rifts® Europa Kickstarter preview page. Game on and enjoy.

Xmas Grab Bags are back!

Christmas Surprise Package – Now Shipping

Huge savings, surprises, and autographs (if you request them) that thrill the purchaser. This is the 26th year we are offering this fan favorite Christmas season bargain because we love doing it as much as you love getting them.


What is a Christmas Surprise Package?


A smile and a hug that comes in a box filled with signed game books from available Palladium staff and freelancers. It is a way for you to get physical books (and autographs if you want them) at PDF prices! $100+ worth of Palladium products for only $60 (plus shipping)! That can nab you four or more items when these days one core rule book can cost you that alone.


These Christmas Surprise Packages are our way of saying thank you for your support and showing you our love and appreciation. It’s a surprise because you never know exactly what you’re going to get or who will sign your books, because we pick from your Wish List and may surprise you with stuff you are not expecting. Extra items may include other RPGs, sourcebooks, issues of the Rifter®, novels, miniatures, prints, art books, greeting cards, T-shirts, negatives, and other items. Some books may be slightly damaged (scuffs, scratches, dings, a bent or crunched corner, etc.) so we can send you more.


No other RPG company on the planet has an offer like this. Truly the best deal in gaming to get unique and special holiday gifts for the gamers in your life, or for yourself.


Christmas Surprise Packages are not just for Christmas. Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or the Winter Solstice, or you are looking for that special gift for a birthday, anniversary, graduation, or any special occasion that falls between now and the end of the year, a Surprise Package may be the ideal way to go. You get a ton of stuff on the cheap, you can get a bunch of autographs (if you want ‘em), and you look like you spent a fortune.


This is also a great way to try that game setting you’ve wondered about – Splicers®, Dead Reign®, Chaos Earth®, Palladium Fantasy®, Nightbane®, Beyond the Supernatural, Rifts®, RECON, After the Bomb®, etc. – or to get something for your favorite Game Master. Or perhaps, to get your player group to consider a new game or setting.


Your “Wish List” is vital – the Palladium Surprise Packages are designed to simulate the joy and surprise of the Christmas Season of Giving. To do this, you submit a list of 12-15 Palladium products (or more) FOR EACH Surprise Package you order. This list of 12-15 items for EACH Grab Bag is critical, because you will not know which items we will select to send you. That makes it just like a Christmas gift because it’s a surprise. Plus, Surrogate Santa Kevin, who personally hand-picks every item for every Grab Bag, may toss in something extra like a limited edition print, or a negative or similar collector’s item, or an issue of The Rifter®, or something else he thinks you’ll enjoy.


Autographed books. For those of you who want them (which are most people), available members of the Palladium staff, and any freelancers we can lasso at the time, are happy to autograph each and every book in your Surprise Package. This is the only way many fans across the country and overseas can ever get signed books.


Send us your brief comments. There is a special form and format to fill out for Christmas Surprise Packages, including a place where you can offer your brief comments, suggestions, greetings and salutations.


First-timers are always nervous until they see the great value in their first Surprise Package. A typical Grab Bag has $100+ worth of product. Yes, often more, for only $60 plus shipping. Many people order 2-3. Some order 4-6, and some maniacs order even more! It makes sense, because it is a great way to fill holes in your own collection, treat yourself, get autographs, try new games and settings, rebuild your collection, replace worn out books, and get your gaming pals gifts. Only from PalladiumBooks.com – happy holidays. PLEASE spread the word about this great offer. Note: Search online for Palladium Surprise Package box opening videos to get an idea of what you can expect to receive. I know the Legion of Myth, among others, has such videos.


To those of you outside the USA, the X-Mas Surprise Package is a way to get books and circumvent the damn high cost of shipping from the United States, since you are getting $110 (often more) worth of product and only paying $60 plus shipping. Shipping via Priority Mail International (required for packages weighing more than four pounds) to most locations in Europe, Canada and many other countries is around $70-80 US dollars. HOWEVER, because the cost of the product is so low, that’s the equivalent of paying retail for the products and only $20-$40 for shipping. A very good deal. Plus you get autographs if you want them! X-Mas Surprise Packages are the way to go for those of you outside the USA. Please take advantage of it to get all those products you’ve wished you could get except the shipping was too prohibitive. We feel your pain. Game on!


Please spread the word. The Christmas Surprise Package is only publicized by word of mouth, on Palladium’s website, and social media, so please tell everyone you know. Buy one for every gamer you know. They make astonishing gifts for every occasion. Only from PalladiumBooks.com – happy holidays.

GiveSendGo Fundraising for BRIC needs our help

Some of you have supported this good cause before. It is a charity close to the heart of me and Sean, and every dollar goes direct to the people who need it, which makes a HUGE difference in saving lives in the Congo. Even a small donation is greatly appreciated, so please give if you can. Thank you so very much for your past financial support of RIGHT’s efforts to feed and protect the people rescued and sustained by the lifesaving BRIC project.


Through your donations, BRIC has been able to install an armored security gate, build enclosure walls, construct a building for offices and classrooms, and an enlarge a stage where students perform the creative, self-help exercises learned through BRIC seminars, as well as music and dance performances that inform and uplift the community. Most recently, they have built a small structure with a toilet and shower, as well as installed basic electricity to the compound. All of this is in addition to rescuing and rehabilitating those once forced into service as child soldiers and worse by rogue warlords and bandits.


These life sustaining improvements could not happen without your prayers and financial assistance since 2022, but our crusade to save and improve the lives of the people in the region is far from complete.


Feuding rebel warlords dangerously close to the homes of the people of Goma continue to control many roads, disrupt and block food supply lines, and harass the people. This has forced many citizens of Goma to turn to BRIC for help. Without that help, they must resort to foraging for food in the rebel-filled forest where they risk their lives or capture. Children left alone while parents forage for food are at great risk of being kidnapped and trafficked. BRIC allows fathers and mothers to drop their children at the enclosure. At this safe haven the children are fed with limited supplies of food, given school lessons, and provided other help as needed.


The Democratic Republic of Congo is currently facing one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises. People are displaced, starving, and homeless. Making safe havens like BRIC necessary for survival. Please join me (Kevin Siembieda) and Sean Owen Roberson by helping in any way you can. Your donations, small or large, will save lives. Thank you.

AVAILABLE NOW!

Yin-Sloth Jungles cover

BACK IN STOCK!

Yin-Sloth Jungles, 2nd Edition, Revised and Expanded!


The Yin-Sloth Jungles™ is a savage and unexplored wilderness filled with exotic people, strange creatures, ancient ruins, dark gods, and ancient secrets waiting to be unearthed.


– 15 O.C.C.s, all updated and expanded, making them seem brand new: Beastmaster, Holy Crusader, Jungle Fighter, Man-Catcher, the unique Tezcat and Pygmy Shamans, Spy, Undead Hunter, and Witch Hunter, among others.

– 18 Jungle People and monsters updated and expanded to feel like new, plus a few additions.

– New and expanded Shaman Chant magic.

– New and unique Pygmy Shaman Chant magic.

– New and expanded history of the Yin-Sloth Jungles.

– Expanded and clarified weapons, jungle armor, poisons, & more.

– The Orcish Empire and a few notable cities.

– Filled with great artwork by Peterson (ROG) and Mike Mumah.

– Written by Kevin Siembieda, John Klinkel, and Patrick Nowak.

– 160 pages – $24.99 retail – Cat. No. 459 – available now.

– COMING SOON! Yin-Sloth Expeditions setting and adventure book.

Now on DriveThruRPG!

NEW! Yin-Sloth Jungles, 2nd Edition Revised and Expanded PDF on DriveThruRPG.com


Yin-Sloth Jungles, 2nd Edition is now available as a PDF book on DriveThruRPG.com – and so is the original 1st Edition book. Get one or both to compare or have in your PDF reference library.

DriveThruRPG.com Halloween Horror Sale offers all kinds of horror RPGs and sourcebooks as PDF books from Palladium and many other companies. Palladium’s Halloween Sale may be over (Or is it? Use the Surprise Package to get all the spooky books you want!) but the DriveThruRPG Halloween Sale has only just begun. And it’s not just haunting Palladium PDF titles on sale but those of Chaosium, Pinnacle, and dozens of other RPG companies. Thousands of titles to get your scare on. Check it out.


NEW! Nightbane® Automated Character Sheet


Now available on DriveThruRPG.com – The Nightbane Automated Character Sheet follows a similar format as the popular Rifts® Automated Character Sheet designed by Greg Diaczyk.

  • Microsoft Excel-based system for creating, updating, and tracking your Nightbane RPG characters quickly and easily. Once you know the system, you can have characters up and ready in 10-15 minutes!

  • Create your human Facade and Nightbane Morphus in minutes.

  • Offers a vast range of Morphus choices.

  • Select from scores of Common and Elite Nightbane Talents.

  • Spells, psionics, and more.

  • $5.00 – Available now on DriveThruRPG.com and coming soon on PalladiumBooks.com – Created by Greg Diaczyk.

300+ RPG products on DriveThru – a dozen unique world settings – one game system – endless possibilities. No other game company offers game worlds for so many different genres. Best of all, learn to play one Palladium RPG and you can play them all, because each uses the same basic core rules and combat. There are differences, but the fundamentals are the same. This also means you can bring characters, villains, monsters, powers, magic, weapons, gear, and adventure ideas from one setting into another or mash them together!


In addition to PDF titles for entire game lines like Rifts®, Palladium Fantasy®, Heroes Unlimited™, Ninjas & Superspies™, After the Bomb®, Beyond the Supernatural™, Dead Reign® (zombies), Nightbane® (Urban Fantasy), Rifts Chaos Earth®, Systems Failure™, Splicers®, RECON®, The Rifter® #1-85, and others, there are Game Master and player aids, character generators, paper minis, map packs, and FREE Previews of books like Creature Feature™, Dead Reign, Coalition Manhunters, Titan Robotics™, Rifts Bestiary Volume One, World Books, Dimension Books, and more to give you a glimpse of what’s in the book. Enjoy endless adventures across the Megaverse®.

Palladium Collectibles – at Kevin’s Online Toy & Collectibles eBay Store

I am adding new collectibles of all kinds to my Ebay store in time for the holiday season. Some are Palladium negatives, rare and out of print books, original Palladium artwork, prints, posters, as well as other collectible toys, action figures, Nightmare Before Christmas items, one-of-a-kind proofreader copies, books, and other good stuff – including Erick Wujcik’s rare and sought after Amberzine #12-15. Check in every week or so to see what’s new. All items come from Kevin Siembieda’s personal collection.


One-of-a-kind Palladium Books negatives (special and rare collectibles). Negatives are always very popular items at the Palladium Open House, Gen Con, and conventions, and are catching on as rare collectibles, unique in and of themselves. Before digital printing, pages of a book were laid out by hand on a board, and each page was photographed.

  • Each negative is truly unique, attractive, and fun to have.

  • Own a piece of Palladium Books and RPG history you will treasure.

  • Each was used to print the very book you may have in your collection (1981-2004).

  • Each is signed in silver ink by Kevin Siembieda and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity.

  • Each negative is a one-of-a-kind work of art (on rare occasions, two-of-a-kind if a page or section of pages were replaced or a second edition was made).

  • Looks great matted or framed! Fits an 8×10 inch matt opening. Each neg is roughly 8 ½ x 11 inches.

  • Prices vary depending on the title, the art, and quality of the negative. Note: Many have scratches, or blemishes, and/or an opaque medium on the negative. Still, they look great and are a piece of RPG history. We recommend you carefully examine the photographs of each item to avoid disappointment. The negatives of many books are sold out or were never available.

CLOSING THOUGHTS

Scary Stuff


Gonna keep this one short. There’s a lot of scary and worrisome things going on in the world, but try not to let them bring you down. Instead, focus on gaming and good things like friends and family, and gaming. (Did I mention gaming?) Games, especially role-playing games, are an amazing escape from everyday worries. Sean and I were just gushing and recounting each of our favorite past games with friends involving demonic swords. We both got animated and excited retelling these adventures like a couple of nerdy fan boys. But you know what, we were laughing and having a good time just talking about our past games. This is why we love role-playing games so much. There’s nothing like them and the joyful memories and friendships last a lifetime.


I haven’t mentioned it much in these Updates lately, but the TMNT and Other Strangeness RPG Redux editions and related items are moving along. The books look amazing. How amazing? A visiting Westland Fire Department Captain expressed interest in the project, so Sean showed him the finished layout pages on his computer. This gentleman is not even an active gamer, but he went nuts over what he saw. He loved the art and layout and kept saying how these books are “going to kill” when they hit the stores. He went wild over the miniatures, too. He even wants to buy the books just to have and read. And this is from a non-gamer. Looking great. Sean is pulling out all the stops.


As for the election next week, if your preferred candidate loses, it is not the end of the world. Things will be okay. Stay frosty and hopeful. Drown your misery in a Palladium Surprise Package. Game on.


– Kevin Siembieda, Publisher, Game Designer, Friend, and Surrogate Santa

Palladium Books® Weekly Update – October 24, 2024

Written by pb_addy on . Posted in Weekly Updates.

Weekly Update

ONE GAME SYSTEM – EVERY GENRE – COUNTLESS WORLDS – ENDLESS ADVENTURE

Halloween PDF Sale – Surprise Packages – News – Palladium Books® Weekly Update –

October 24, 2024

The DriveThruRPG.com Halloween Horror Sale offers all kinds of horror RPGs and sourcebooks as PDF books from Palladium and many other companies. Palladium’s Halloween Sale may be over (Or is it? Use the Surprise Package to get all the spooky books you want!) but the DriveThruRPG Halloween Sale has only just begun. And it’s not just haunting Palladium PDF titles on sale, but those of Chaosium, Pinnacle, and dozens of other RPG companies. Thousands of titles to get your scare on. Check it out.

Now available on DriveThruRPG.com – The Nightbane® Automated Character Sheet follows a similar format to the popular Rifts® Automated Character Sheet designed by Greg Diaczyk. See more details below or on DriveThruRPG.

Folks are loving the annual Christmas Surprise Package offer as usual. Please keep those orders pouring in. I always say this, but it bears repeating: If you have never gotten a Surprise Package before, try one early because you will probably want to get another for yourself or a friend or two. Not only is it a great gift (on the cheap) for the holidays, birthdays, anniversaries, etc., but this is a way to try new RPG settings, sourcebooks, miniatures, poker decks, art prints, and other products at a steep discount. To get the books signed by Kevin and the available staff, all you need to do is ask. See more details below or click on the link to the store. This 26 year fan fave tradition only comes around once a year.

News! The How to Run a Halloween One-Shot on the Legion of Myth YouTube channel was amazing and should become available over the next week or two. Watch for it/them (the 3+ hour chat may be split into two segments), because it really is that good. Excellent questions and sound advice from everyone on the panel. While the focus is horror, much of the advice is suitable for creating and running any one-shot adventure, not just horror, as well as applicable to RPG campaigns. My hat is off to the two gents on the discussion with me, they were great. Remember, all of Sean’s and my chats on Legion of Myth are available for your viewing enjoyment whenever you want to take a peek. I think our chat about Traveling the Rifts Wilderness is available now.

History of Palladium Books on YouTube

News! A NEW episode of the Official History of Palladium Books went live today, Thursday, October 24. Each of the first 30 or so video chats recounting the history of Palladium Books features me, Kevin Siembieda, the company’s founder and long-time game designer, and videographer J-M DeFoggi. The first one has been well received and the insiders who have seen several are loving them. In my opinion, they only get better and better as we delve into all of the game lines. We already have 20+ such chats done and continue to shoot more every week. Most are 30-60 minutes long and cover everything from The Mechanoid Invasion® and Valley of the Pharaohs to Palladium Fantasy, Rifts®, and beyond. You can find them on Palladium Books’ YouTube channel. Please spread the word. I hope you continue to enjoy every new episode in the weeks ahead.

News! Palladium Books® YouTube Channel – We are happy to see so many of you excited about the Palladium Books® YouTube Channel and enjoying the Official History of Palladium Books chats. These comfy and casual conversations are just the beginning. Watch for more fun in the months ahead and please offer suggestions about topics you might want to see discussed. It will be a few months before they get posted but one of the two videos I shot this week covered some of our cult-favorite games like Macross II, Systems Failure, RECON, and Splicers®, and the other chat is about the Rifts® CCG by Precedence Entertainment and Rifts® Promise of Power videogame for the N-Gage by Nokia. Topics coming up include Dead Reign®, Games that Almost Happened (like Alien vs Predator, Marvel Superheroes, etc.), Tales of the Defilers, and more.

News! The Glitterbois’ additional history of Palladium Books also continues with much fanfare. We recently taped the history of Rifts® which I thought was epic. And there is more to come! It amazes me how different interviewers bring out different memories and information. So yes, the podcasts reveal different details than Palladium’s video chats. Of course, there’s some overlap, but there’s also a wealth of information and entertainment in each.

Please Help if you can. The BRIC crowdfunder to save lives. We know times are tough and money is tight for some of you, but this charity is very important for me and Sean. Even a $5 or $10 contribution helps to protect and save the lives of children and families in the Congo. See complete details below or click here.

News! What’s hot at Palladium this week – Palladium Fantasy® has been crazy hot this week and we don’t know why. Everything from the Fantasy RPG to sourcebooks to hardcover editions have been in high demand. Live the Fantasy! Rifts®, Heroes Unlimited, Dead Reign® and other horror games have also been hot. With Halloween on the horizon we can see why horror titles are in demand. The beloved Christmas Surprise Package is, of course, the hottest sale category because it puts EVERY Palladium product on sale and makes it even more affordable to try new game settings and sourcebooks. Spread the word about the Surprise Package offer and don’t miss out on this spectacular opportunity.

– FINAL DAYS for the Starbreaker Kickstarter. Sean and I know these guys, so this product should be excellent or we would not endorse it. Starbreaker is an expansive space opera setting for Savage Worlds rules BUT easily adaptable to Rifts® Phase World® and the Three Galaxies as well as Aliens Unlimited®.

Xmas Grab Bags are back!

Christmas Surprise Package – Now Shipping

Huge savings, surprises, and autographs (if you request them) that thrill the purchaser. This is the 26th year we are offering this fan favorite Christmas season bargain because we love doing it as much as you love getting them.


What is a Christmas Surprise Package?


A smile and a hug that comes in a box filled with signed game books from available Palladium staff and freelancers. It is a way for you to get physical books (and autographs if you want them) at PDF prices! $100+ worth of Palladium products for only $60 (plus shipping)! That can nab you four or more items when these days one core rule book can cost you that alone.


These Christmas Surprise Packages are our way of saying thank you for your support and showing you our love and appreciation. It’s a surprise because you never know exactly what you’re going to get or who will sign your books, because we pick from your Wish List and may surprise you with stuff you are not expecting. Extra items may include other RPGs, sourcebooks, issues of the Rifter®, novels, miniatures, prints, art books, greeting cards, T-shirts, negatives, and other items. Some books may be slightly damaged (scuffs, scratches, dings, a bent or crunched corner, etc.) so we can send you more.


No other RPG company on the planet has an offer like this. Truly the best deal in gaming to get unique and special holiday gifts for the gamers in your life, or for yourself.


Christmas Surprise Packages are not just for Christmas. Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or the Winter Solstice, or you are looking for that special gift for a birthday, anniversary, graduation, or any special occasion that falls between now and the end of the year, a Surprise Package may be the ideal way to go. You get a ton of stuff on the cheap, you can get a bunch of autographs (if you want ‘em), and you look like you spent a fortune.


This is also a great way to try that game setting you’ve wondered about – Splicers®, Dead Reign®, Chaos Earth®, Palladium Fantasy®, Nightbane®, Beyond the Supernatural, Rifts®, RECON, After the Bomb®, etc. – or to get something for your favorite Game Master. Or perhaps, to get your player group to consider a new game or setting.


Your “Wish List” is vital – the Palladium Surprise Packages are designed to simulate the joy and surprise of the Christmas Season of Giving. To do this, you submit a list of 12-15 Palladium products (or more) FOR EACH Surprise Package you order. This list of 12-15 items for EACH Grab Bag is critical, because you will not know which items we will select to send you. That makes it just like a Christmas gift because it’s a surprise. Plus, Surrogate Santa Kevin, who personally hand-picks every item for every Grab Bag, may toss in something extra like a limited edition print, or a negative or similar collector’s item, or an issue of The Rifter®, or something else he thinks you’ll enjoy.


Autographed books. For those of you who want them (which are most people), available members of the Palladium staff, and any freelancers we can lasso at the time, are happy to autograph each and every book in your Surprise Package. This is the only way many fans across the country and overseas can ever get signed books.


Send us your brief comments. There is a special form and format to fill out for Christmas Surprise Packages, including a place where you can offer your brief comments, suggestions, greetings and salutations.


First-timers are always nervous until they see the great value in their first Surprise Package. A typical Grab Bag has $100+ worth of product. Yes, often more, for only $60 plus shipping. Many people order 2-3. Some order 4-6, and some maniacs order even more! It makes sense, because it is a great way to fill holes in your own collection, treat yourself, get autographs, try new games and settings, rebuild your collection, replace worn out books, and get your gaming pals gifts. Only from PalladiumBooks.com – happy holidays. PLEASE spread the word about this great offer. Note: Search online for Palladium Surprise Package box opening videos to get an idea of what you can expect to receive. I know the Legion of Myth, among others, has such videos.


To those of you outside the USA, the X-Mas Surprise Package is a way to get books and circumvent the damn high cost of shipping from the United States, since you are getting $110 (often more) worth of product and only paying $60 plus shipping. Shipping via Priority Mail International (required for packages weighing more than four pounds) to most locations in Europe, Canada and many other countries is around $70-80 US dollars. HOWEVER, because the cost of the product is so low, that’s the equivalent of paying retail for the products and only $20-$40 for shipping. A very good deal. Plus you get autographs if you want them! X-Mas Surprise Packages are the way to go for those of you outside the USA. Please take advantage of it to get all those products you’ve wished you could get except the shipping was too prohibitive. We feel your pain. Game on!


Please spread the word. The Christmas Surprise Package is only publicized by word of mouth, on Palladium’s website, and social media, so please tell everyone you know. Buy one for every gamer you know. They make astonishing gifts for every occasion. Only from PalladiumBooks.com – happy holidays.

GiveSendGo Fundraising for BRIC needs our help

Some of you have supported this good cause before. It is a charity close to the heart of me and Sean, and every dollar goes direct to the people who need it, which makes a HUGE difference in saving lives in the Congo. Even a small donation is greatly appreciated, so please give if you can. Thank you so very much for your past financial support of RIGHT’s efforts to feed and protect the people rescued and sustained by the lifesaving BRIC project.


Through your donations, BRIC has been able to install an armored security gate, build enclosure walls, construct a building for offices and classrooms, and an enlarge a stage where students perform the creative, self-help exercises learned through BRIC seminars, as well as music and dance performances that inform and uplift the community. Most recently, they have built a small structure with a toilet and shower, as well as installed basic electricity to the compound. All of this is in addition to rescuing and rehabilitating those once forced into service as child soldiers and worse by rogue warlords and bandits.


These life sustaining improvements could not happen without your prayers and financial assistance since 2022, but our crusade to save and improve the lives of the people in the region is far from complete.


Feuding rebel warlords dangerously close to the homes of the people of Goma continue to control many roads, disrupt and block food supply lines, and harass the people. This has forced many citizens of Goma to turn to BRIC for help. Without that help, they must resort to foraging for food in the rebel-filled forest where they risk their lives or capture. Children left alone while parents forage for food are at great risk of being kidnapped and trafficked. BRIC allows fathers and mothers to drop their children at the enclosure. At this safe haven the children are fed with limited supplies of food, given school lessons, and provided other help as needed.


The Democratic Republic of Congo is currently facing one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises. People are displaced, starving, and homeless. Making safe havens like BRIC necessary for survival. Please join me (Kevin Siembieda) and Sean Owen Roberson by helping in any way you can. Your donations, small or large, will save lives. Thank you.

A Kickstarter we recommend –

Starbreaker Role-Playing – Space Opera Setting & Adventure Book for use with Savage Worlds

Palladium’s Sean Owen Roberson has worked with both of the main creators and both of us are fired up about this rapidly growing, new tabletop game company. We like their imagination, concepts, artwork, and products.


Are you looking for epic space opera and galactic intrigue? Then you will want to look at the Starbreaker: SAINTs and Synners Kickstarter from Star Anvil Studios. Designed for use with the Savage Worlds rules, with approval of Pinnacle the publisher of Savage Words under their official Ace Licensing program.


Adventure starts at the edge of known space in a galaxy rife with danger, corruption, and crime lords. You don’t know who you can trust and there is always someone looking for hired guns like you and your crew. The question is, are you working for the good guys (SAINTs) or one of the many criminal syndicates (Synnners).


As SAINTs, you may find yourself on a mission of mercy or working undercover to take down one of the space-spanning Syndicates. You may fight for justice and free trade, or you might be a cosmic Robinhood who steals from criminal Syndicates and gives to the poor – after lining your own pockets to fund such noble operations. Whatever the case, you are up against powerful, self-serving scum who prey upon those who can’t fight back.


What’s that? You’re tired of playing the good guys? That’s just fine, because you can choose to play as a Synner out to make a big score or even to build your own criminal empire from the ground up.


Which will you be? Savior and SAINT or Synner and destroyer?


To be either, you need to back this dynamic, science fiction setting and adventure sourcebook. Complete with monsters, aliens, vehicles, gear, new edges and rules for Savage Worlds, great art and more! Please spread the word to other Savage Worlds gamers and sf fans who love settings with backstabbing space empires and noble underdogs.


Click here to see more and to back it today!

AVAILABLE NOW!

Yin-Sloth Jungles cover

BACK IN STOCK!

Yin-Sloth Jungles, 2nd Edition, Revised and Expanded!


The Yin-Sloth Jungles™ is a savage and unexplored wilderness filled with exotic people, strange creatures, ancient ruins, dark gods, and ancient secrets waiting to be unearthed.


– 15 O.C.C.s, all updated and expanded, making them seem brand new: Beastmaster, Holy Crusader, Jungle Fighter, Man-Catcher, the unique Tezcat and Pygmy Shamans, Spy, Undead Hunter, and Witch Hunter, among others.

– 18 Jungle People and monsters updated and expanded to feel like new, plus a few additions.

– New and expanded Shaman Chant magic.

– New and unique Pygmy Shaman Chant magic.

– New and expanded history of the Yin-Sloth Jungles.

– Expanded and clarified weapons, jungle armor, poisons, & more.

– The Orcish Empire and a few notable cities.

– Filled with great artwork by Peterson (ROG) and Mike Mumah.

– Written by Kevin Siembieda, John Klinkel, and Patrick Nowak.

– 160 pages – $24.99 retail – Cat. No. 459 – available now.

– COMING SOON! Yin-Sloth Expeditions setting and adventure book.

Now on DriveThruRPG!

NEW! Yin-Sloth Jungles, 2nd Edition Revised and Expanded PDF on DriveThruRPG.com


Yin-Sloth Jungles, 2nd Edition is now available as a PDF book on DriveThruRPG.com – and so is the original 1st Edition book. Get one or both to compare or have in your PDF reference library.

DriveThruRPG.com Halloween Horror Sale offers all kinds of horror RPGs and sourcebooks as PDF books from Palladium and many other companies. Palladium’s Halloween Sale may be over (Or is it? Use the Surprise Package to get all the spooky books you want!) but the DriveThruRPG Halloween Sale has only just begun. And it’s not just haunting Palladium PDF titles on sale but those of Chaosium, Pinnacle, and dozens of other RPG companies. Thousands of titles to get your scare on. Check it out.


NEW! Nightbane® Automated Character Sheet


Now available on DriveThruRPG.com – The Nightbane Automated Character Sheet follows a similar format as the popular Rifts® Automated Character Sheet designed by Greg Diaczyk.

  • Microsoft Excel-based system for creating, updating, and tracking your Nightbane RPG characters quickly and easily. Once you know the system, you can have characters up and ready in 10-15 minutes!

  • Create your human Facade and Nightbane Morphus in minutes.

  • Offers a vast range of Morphus choices.

  • Select from scores of Common and Elite Nightbane Talents.

  • Spells, psionics, and more.

  • $5.00 – Available now on DriveThruRPG.com and coming soon on PalladiumBooks.com – Created by Greg Diaczyk.

300+ RPG products on DriveThru – a dozen unique world settings – one game system – endless possibilities. No other game company offers game worlds for so many different genres. Best of all, learn to play one Palladium RPG and you can play them all, because each uses the same basic core rules and combat. There are differences, but the fundamentals are the same. This also means you can bring characters, villains, monsters, powers, magic, weapons, gear, and adventure ideas from one setting into another or mash them together!


In addition to PDF titles for entire game lines like Rifts®, Palladium Fantasy®, Heroes Unlimited™, Ninjas & Superspies™, After the Bomb®, Beyond the Supernatural™, Dead Reign® (zombies), Nightbane® (Urban Fantasy), Rifts Chaos Earth®, Systems Failure™, Splicers®, RECON®, The Rifter® #1-85, and others, there are Game Master and player aids, character generators, paper minis, map packs, and FREE Previews of books like Creature Feature™, Dead Reign, Coalition Manhunters, Titan Robotics™, Rifts Bestiary Volume One, World Books, Dimension Books, and more to give you a glimpse of what’s in the book. Enjoy endless adventures across the Megaverse®.

Palladium Collectibles – at Kevin’s Online Toy & Collectibles eBay Store

I am adding new collectibles of all kinds to my Ebay store in time for the holiday season. Some are Palladium negatives, rare and out of print books, original Palladium artwork, prints, posters, as well as other collectible toys, action figures, Nightmare Before Christmas items, one-of-a-kind proofreader copies, books, and other good stuff – including Erick Wujcik’s rare and sought after Amberzine #12-15. Check in every week or so to see what’s new. All items come from Kevin Siembieda’s personal collection.


One-of-a-kind Palladium Books negatives (special and rare collectibles). Negatives are always very popular items at the Palladium Open House, Gen Con, and conventions, and are catching on as rare collectibles, unique in and of themselves. Before digital printing, pages of a book were laid out by hand on a board, and each page was photographed.

  • Each negative is truly unique, attractive, and fun to have.

  • Own a piece of Palladium Books and RPG history you will treasure.

  • Each was used to print the very book you may have in your collection (1981-2004).

  • Each is signed in silver ink by Kevin Siembieda and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity.

  • Each negative is a one-of-a-kind work of art (on rare occasions, two-of-a-kind if a page or section of pages were replaced or a second edition was made).

  • Looks great matted or framed! Fits an 8×10 inch matt opening. Each neg is roughly 8½ x 11 inches.

  • Prices vary depending on the title, the art, and quality of the negative. Note: Many have scratches, or blemishes, and/or an opaque medium on the negative. Still, they look great and are a piece of RPG history. We recommend you carefully examine the photographs of each item to avoid disappointment. The negatives of many books are sold out or were never available.

CLOSING THOUGHTS

Find your Happiness


For me, personally, October and Halloween are the start of the holidays and my happy time. This year, without my Kathy, the season is bittersweet, but I still find it (or make it) a happy time. Just yesterday morning before work I walked around my neighborhood to enjoy the Halloween decorations. Some were impressive, all were nice and made me smile. It brought back delightful memories of our exploits with the massive display Kathy and I had created; much of it handmade. How big was it? We had people drive a hundred miles to see it and one lady told us she flew in from California – though I think seeing our display was more of an excuse to visit friends and family in Michigan. M-Live, the online news magazine, did a massive piece on us and our next door neighbor complete with daytime and nighttime videos, and listed our Halloween display as #3 of the Top 13 Must See Halloween sites in Michigan. It was awesome! I have always loved Halloween and the friendly scares that come with it. My years with Kathy and the creation of our super-Halloween display made me love the holiday all the more.


Then comes Christmas and gift giving, my favorite time of the year. (Halloween is a very close second). As you might guess from the Christmas Surprise Package offer, I love making Christmas-time special by offering an awesome deal, writing little notes, doing small drawings, and making people happy with what they get in their packages. I love it.


When I was young, my family’s income was below the poverty line. Money was tight. That limited gift giving to either practical items or handmade artwork or arts and crafts creations. When you’re a little kid, you don’t realize how precious that handmade gift truly is. Instead, you wish you could buy your friends and family members nice things for “real gifts.” Once I grew up and had the ability to buy real gifts, I became a crazed, surrogate Santa Claus giving gifts and doing little special things for as many people as I could. I still do. It brings me great joy to put smiles on your faces with the Surprise Packages as well as with gifts for those close to me.


I know many of you are feeling stressed out by the economy, high prices, political negativity surrounding the upcoming presidential election, and probably a lot of other things, not to mention the pressure and stress that comes with the holiday season. It is easy to feel sad, frustrated, angry, overwhelmed, or all of the above. Try not to let that happen. Don’t lose sight of the good things, the beautiful things, or the people you love and who love you back. They, after all, are where true joy and love and happiness come from.


As someone dealing with Type-2 diabetes, I walk 30 minutes every morning or afternoon. Mid-day Monday I was taking a late walk along a nature trail when I saw this amazing scene of trees with their mirror image reflected in the water. It looked like something out of a painting or a movie. Beautiful reds, golds, and yellows with a perfect mirror image in the water. I was so awestruck that I stopped to drink in the splendor for a few minutes. I looked up into the azure sky and thanked God for this wonderful vision and for all the good and beauty in my life – my entire life.


When you think about it, this was a pretty insignificant event, but it made me smile and feel good – happy – and grateful. Happy and thankful to be alive and for being able to recognize that moment as something special. Something that touched my soul. It made me happy and grateful for the diverse and wondrous range of people I know and have known throughout my life.


There is beauty and goodness all around us if we stop – even for just a moment – to look around and let it fill us up. I don’t know about you, but I need moments like that to recharge my battery and inspire me.


As gamers we can do something many other people cannot: we can escape into fantastic worlds where we share the camaraderie of our friends and fellow gamers. We are able to transform into our imagined alter egos – heroes that battle injustice and evil and protect the innocent. And we do it in the most amazing worlds. Remember to use RPGs not just to escape, but to find laughter, friendship, and joy in heroic adventure. Please don’t let hate and negativity or worry get the best of you. Find happiness in the games you love and the people you love gaming with. Find joy in a book or poem or any lovely moment that comes your way. Find it and hold on to it until you smile and it warms your heart. Seek refuge in the smiles of others and in the arms of your loved ones, children, friends, and family. Fight the good fight and be happy. You deserve it.


At the risk of sounding like someone who grew up in the 1960s and 70s (I did), love, not hate. Find the things that we have in common and embrace the things that make us each different and special. Cling to hope and be the light that inspires others.



– I am Kevin Siembieda, Publisher, Game Designer, Friend,
and I endorse this message.