The Village of Hommlet is a quaint settlement that once faced darkness but now thrives. It serves as a beacon of hope and a starting point for adventurers, offering a mix of tranquility and underlying intrigue.
1.1 Overview of the Village
The Village of Hommlet is a small, peaceful settlement nestled in the heart of the Kron Hills, serving as a quiet rural community. Known for its charming thatched roofs and bustling village green, Hommlet is a place of simplicity and normalcy. The village is strategically located near the ruins of the Moathouse, a site of dark history. Hommlet’s crossroads inn and church are central hubs, offering safety and camaraderie. Its idyllic setting makes it an ideal starting point for adventurers, blending tranquility with hints of impending danger.
1.2 Historical Context
The Village of Hommlet is rooted in a rich history tied to the rise and fall of the Temple of Elemental Evil. Founded by settlers seeking peace, Hommlet became a refuge after the temple’s destruction. Its history is marked by struggles against dark forces, with the Moathouse serving as a grim reminder of past evils. The village’s resilience and strategic location have made it a focal point in the broader narrative of the Greyhawk campaign setting, shaping its identity as a beacon of hope amidst darkness.
1.3 The Village’s Role in the Temple of Elemental Evil Campaign
The Village of Hommlet serves as the gateway to the Temple of Elemental Evil campaign, offering adventurers a quiet starting point before delving into darkness. Its proximity to the Moathouse and the temple makes it a crucial hub for gathering resources and information. Hommlet’s role is pivotal, as it connects players to the broader narrative, setting the stage for the epic battle against elemental evil and the forces of darkness that threaten the region.
The Temple of Elemental Evil
The Temple of Elemental Evil stands as a malevolent force, a place of darkness where evil cultists and elemental powers converge to spread corruption and despair.
2.1 The Rise and Fall of the Temple
The Temple of Elemental Evil emerged from the ambitions of a powerful cult seeking to dominate the region through dark magic and corruption. Its rise was marked by fear and oppression, as it drew followers and resources to spread its influence. However, its reign was short-lived, as brave adventurers and local forces united to destroy the temple, ending its evil grip but leaving lasting scars on the land and its people.
2.2 The Battle Against Elemental Evil
The battle against the Temple of Elemental Evil was a climactic struggle involving brave adventurers, powerful magic, and desperate tactics. Heroes faced elemental guardians, traps, and dark rituals, with the temple’s inner sanctum holding the key to its destruction. The victory, though costly, restored peace to Hommlet and the surrounding lands, cementing the village’s role as a beacon of hope against darkness.
2.3 The Aftermath of the Temple’s Destruction
The destruction of the Temple of Elemental Evil brought profound changes to Hommlet and its surroundings. With the evil forces vanquished, the village experienced a surge in prosperity and safety. Trade resumed, and the village became a symbol of resilience. However, the scars of the conflict lingered, and the community focused on rebuilding and healing. The temple’s ruins served as a grim reminder of the dangers of unchecked darkness, uniting the people in their commitment to peace and vigilance.
Key Locations in Hommlet
Hommlet features several iconic locations, including the Inn of the Crossroads, the Church of St. Cuthbert, the Moathouse ruins, and the Village Green, each rich in history and significance.
3.1 The Inn of the Crossroads
The Inn of the Crossroads is the heart of Hommlet, offering warmth and hospitality to travelers. Its cozy atmosphere, complete with a roaring fireplace, makes it a hub for rumors and gossip. The innkeeper, often a charming figure, provides valuable information to adventurers. This bustling spot is where many quests begin, as travelers share tales and seek allies. Its central location makes it a perfect starting point for exploring the village and its surroundings, immersing players in Hommlet’s vibrant life.
3.2 The Church of St. Cuthbert
The Church of St. Cuthbert stands as a beacon of order and justice in Hommlet. Dedicated to the deity of law and discipline, the church is a central pillar of the village’s spiritual life. The priest, a devout follower, offers guidance and healing to the community. The church’s influence extends beyond worship, often mediating disputes and providing moral direction. Its presence underscores the village’s commitment to righteousness and stability, making it a vital institution in Hommlet’s social fabric and daily life.
3.3 The Moathouse Ruins
The Moathouse Ruins, located near Hommlet, are the remnants of a once-grand fortress. Overgrown with vegetation, the ruins now serve as a haunting reminder of past conflicts. They are tied to the history of the Temple of Elemental Evil, making them a focal point for adventurers. The ruins are dangerous, filled with crumbling structures, hidden passages, and lurking monsters. They provide an early adventure site for explorers, offering clues about the larger campaign and the forces of evil that once threatened the region.
3.4 The Village Green
The Village Green is the heart of Hommlet, serving as a central gathering place for residents. It hosts celebrations, markets, and public meetings, fostering a sense of community. A large tree or monument often stands at its center, symbolizing unity and strength. The Green is also where travelers and adventurers first receive information about local events and quests. Its lively atmosphere contrasts with the darker elements surrounding the village, making it a crucial location for social interaction and adventure hooks.
Notable NPCs in Hommlet
Hommlet features a variety of notable NPCs, each with unique roles and personalities. They include the Village Elder, the Priest of St. Cuthbert, Rannos Davl, and Jaroo, shaping the village’s dynamics and adventures.
4.1 The Village Elder
The Village Elder is Hommlet’s respected leader, known for wisdom and fairness. A former adventurer, the Elder provides guidance and resolves disputes, maintaining order. They are cautious about outsiders but supportive of efforts to protect the village. The Elder’s deep understanding of local history and politics makes them a key source of information, especially regarding the Temple of Elemental Evil. Their leadership is crucial in uniting the village during crises, ensuring Hommlet remains a safe haven for its people and adventurers alike.
4.2 The Priest of St. Cuthbert
The Priest of St. Cuthbert is a devout and authoritative figure in Hommlet, serving as both a spiritual leader and a moral guide. Dedicated to the teachings of St. Cuthbert, the priest emphasizes justice, order, and righteousness. They oversee the village church, providing solace and guidance to the villagers. The priest is wary of evil forces, particularly the Temple of Elemental Evil, and may offer blessings or advice to adventurers seeking to combat darkness. Their influence is significant in maintaining the village’s moral compass.
4.3 Rannos Davl and His Role
Rannos Davl is a key figure in Hommlet, serving as a trader and collector of rare items. He operates a small, cluttered shop in the village, offering unusual goods and information to adventurers. Rannos is particularly interested in acquiring magical or historical artifacts, often trading valuable items in exchange. His connections and knowledge make him a useful ally for those seeking specific tools or intel. However, his motives are not entirely altruistic, as he prioritizes his own interests and profits above all else.
4.4 Jaroo, the Druid Agent
Jaroo is a mysterious druid operating in Hommlet, tasked with monitoring the village and its surroundings for signs of darkness. He is a spy and scout, blending into the environment to gather intelligence. Jaroo works to counter threats, particularly those linked to the Temple of Elemental Evil. His role is crucial in alerting the village to potential dangers, making him a silent protector of Hommlet. His presence adds depth to the village’s dynamics and serves as a vital connection to the larger campaign narrative.
The Module T1: The Village of Hommlet
T1: The Village of Hommlet is a foundational D&D module introducing players to the village and its role in the Elemental Evil campaign, providing essential background, key locations, and NPCs.
5.1 Publication History
The Village of Hommlet module, T1, was first published in 1979 by TSR, Inc., as part of the Greyhawk series. Written by Gary Gygax, it introduced the village as a starting point for low-level adventurers. In 2004, Wizards of the Coast re-released the module as a PDF, adapting it for 3.5 Edition D&D. This version included updated mechanics while retaining the original’s charm and setup for the Temple of Elemental Evil campaign.
5.2 The Module’s Significance in D&D History
T1: The Village of Hommlet holds a revered place in D&D history as one of the first standalone modules. Designed by Gary Gygax in 1979, it set the standard for adventure design, introducing a structured narrative and detailed NPCs. Its focus on village-based storytelling and gradual progression influenced countless modules. The module’s success led to the creation of the Temple of Elemental Evil campaign, cementing its legacy as a foundational piece of D&D lore and a blueprint for modern adventure design.
5.3 Gameplay Mechanics and Features
T1: The Village of Hommlet introduced innovative gameplay mechanics, blending exploration, role-playing, and combat. It pioneered the “sandbox” style, allowing players to explore freely. The module emphasized social interactions, with detailed NPCs and moral choices. Combat encounters were balanced for low-level characters, featuring strategic challenges. The inclusion of a village as a safe hub set a precedent for future modules. Its design encouraged creativity, making it a timeless example of early D&D adventure crafting.
The Village of Hommlet in Modern D&D
Hommlet remains a beloved setting in modern D&D, offering versatile adventures for new and veteran players. Its timeless charm and adaptability continue to inspire fresh campaigns and reinterpretations.
6.1 Reprints and Re-releases
The Village of Hommlet module has seen several reprints since its original release, ensuring its availability for new generations of players. Digital versions, including the Hommlet PDF, have become popular, offering convenience and accessibility. These reprints often include updated artwork and clarified rules while maintaining the original charm. The module’s enduring popularity has led to its inclusion in anniversary editions and special collections, further cementing its place in D&D history.
Re-releases have also introduced Hommlet to digital platforms, making it easier for modern players to explore this iconic setting. The Hommlet PDF is now accessible through official channels, preserving its legacy while adapting to contemporary gaming preferences.
6.2 Community Contributions and Fan Content
The Village of Hommlet has inspired a vibrant community of fans, who create custom content, fan art, and homebrew adventures. Many enthusiasts share their interpretations of the village, its NPCs, and locations online. These creations often expand on the module’s lore, offering fresh perspectives for players and DMs.
Community-driven projects include custom maps, alternate storylines, and even 3D models of key locations. The availability of the Hommlet PDF has further fueled creativity, as fans adapt the setting to modern D&D editions or integrate it into their own campaigns, keeping the village’s legacy alive and evolving.
6.3 Adaptations in Digital Games
The Village of Hommlet has been adapted into various digital games, preserving its charm while enhancing gameplay. Notably, the 2001 PC game Temple of Elemental Evil featured Hommlet as a central hub, allowing players to explore its locations. Modern indie games and community mods often include Hommlet, blending its classic lore with new mechanics. Digital adaptations ensure the village remains accessible to new generations, offering fresh experiences while staying true to its roots.
Playing in Hommlet
Playing in Hommlet offers a rich blend of adventure and roleplay. The village serves as a perfect starting point for low-level parties, with its charming atmosphere.
7.1 Starting Adventures in the Village
Starting adventures in Hommlet often begin at the Inn of the Crossroads, where rumors and opportunities flow freely. The village elder and priest of St. Cuthbert provide guidance, while the Moathouse ruins loom nearby, promising danger. New players can explore the village’s charm, interact with NPCs, and uncover the beginnings of the Temple of Elemental Evil’s influence. This setting balances exploration, roleplay, and combat, making Hommlet an ideal starting point for low-level campaigns, with plenty of hooks to draw adventurers into the larger story.
7.2 Quests and Side Quests
Quests in Hommlet often revolve around uncovering the dark forces threatening the village. Main quests include investigating the Moathouse ruins to disrupt evil activities and gathering allies for the larger campaign against the Temple of Elemental Evil. Side quests involve helping villagers, such as rescuing prisoners, retrieving stolen goods, or clearing dangerous creatures like ankhegs from nearby fields. These tasks provide valuable experience and build connections with NPCs, enriching the adventure and preparing players for greater challenges ahead.
7.3 Combat Encounters and Monsters
Combat in Hommlet is frequent, with encounters ranging from ankhegs in the fields to spiders in the forest. The Moathouse ruins are a hotspot for undead creatures like zombies and skeletons. Monsters such as giant spiders, wolves, and even elemental beasts appear as the story unfolds. These encounters test players’ tactics and prepare them for the larger threats tied to the Temple of Elemental Evil. DMs can use these fights to build tension and showcase the growing darkness in the region.
Resources for Players and DMs
The Hommlet PDF guide offers detailed maps, NPC stats, and quest hooks. Additional resources include fan-made maps, adventure logs, and tips for optimizing gameplay experiences.
8.1 The Hommlet PDF Guide
The Hommlet PDF guide is an essential resource for players and DMs, offering detailed descriptions of the village, its history, and key locations. It includes maps, NPC stats, and quest hooks, providing a comprehensive overview for gameplay. The guide is optimized for digital use, with clickable links and searchable text. Available for free download, it serves as a valuable tool for both new and experienced adventurers exploring the Village of Hommlet. Additional resources, like fan-made maps and adventure logs, complement the guide.
8.2 Maps and Illustrations
The Village of Hommlet PDF features detailed maps and illustrations that bring the setting to life. These visuals include the layout of the village, the Inn of the Crossroads, and the nearby Moathouse ruins. The artwork, inspired by the original module, provides a nostalgic feel while enhancing gameplay immersion. Players and DMs can use these visuals to better understand the environment and key locations, aiding in navigation and storytelling.
8.3 Tips for Running the Module
Running the Village of Hommlet module requires careful pacing to balance exploration, role-playing, and combat. Start by establishing Hommlet as a safe haven, allowing players to interact with NPCs and uncover plot hooks. Emphasize the importance of the village elder and the priest of St. Cuthbert as key sources of information. Encourage players to explore thoroughly, as missed details can impact later quests. Use the moathouse as a gateway to the larger campaign, ensuring a smooth transition to the Temple of Elemental Evil.
Community and Reviews
The Village of Hommlet PDF has received widespread acclaim for its detailed setting and engaging gameplay. Fans praise its nostalgic value and adaptability to modern campaigns.
9.1 Player and DM Feedback
Players and DMs praise the Village of Hommlet PDF for its rich detail and immersive storytelling. Many highlight its faithfulness to the original module, while others appreciate its updated mechanics. The village’s atmosphere and NPCs are often noted for enhancing roleplay opportunities. DMs particularly commend the well-structured layout and ease of navigation, making it a joy to run. Some players mention the depth of lore as a standout feature, while others appreciate the balance of combat and exploration. Overall, feedback is overwhelmingly positive, with many calling it a must-play for D&D enthusiasts.
9.2 Reviews of the Module
The Village of Hommlet PDF has received widespread acclaim for its meticulous detail and faithful adaptation of the original module. Critics praise its ability to balance nostalgia with modern gameplay mechanics, making it accessible to both veteran players and newcomers. The module’s rich narrative and immersive setting are often highlighted, with many considering it a timeless classic in D&D history. While some reviewers note minor inconsistencies, the overall consensus is overwhelmingly positive, solidifying its place as a must-play module for enthusiasts of the genre.
9.3 Fan Art and Inspired Creations
Fans of the Village of Hommlet have created stunning art inspired by its setting and lore. Digital illustrations, paintings, and 3D models bring the village and its landmarks to life. Enthusiasts also craft custom miniatures, cosplay, and even fan fiction expanding on the module’s story. These creations showcase the community’s passion and creativity, sharing their interpretations of Hommlet’s charm. Social media and art platforms are filled with these inspired works, celebrating the village’s enduring influence on D&D culture and imagination.
The Village of Hommlet remains a timeless gem in D&D history, offering rich storytelling and immersive gameplay. Its legacy endures through its iconic design and dedicated community.
10.1 The Legacy of Hommlet
The Village of Hommlet has left an indelible mark on Dungeons & Dragons, inspiring countless adventures and adaptations. Its modular design and rich storytelling have made it a cornerstone of RPG history. The Hommlet PDF guide continues to serve as a vital resource for both players and DMs, offering detailed maps, lore, and gameplay mechanics. Its enduring popularity underscores its influence, cementing its legacy as a timeless setting that fosters creativity and immersive experiences for generations of gamers.
10.2 Final Thoughts on the Village and Its Significance
The Village of Hommlet stands as a testament to the enduring charm of Dungeons & Dragons, offering a rich tapestry of adventure and storytelling. Its significance lies in its versatility, serving as both a tranquil setting and a gateway to epic quests. The Hommlet PDF has preserved its legacy, making it accessible to new generations. Whether for seasoned players or newcomers, Hommlet remains a timeless gem, embodying the spirit of D&D and inspiring countless tales around the virtual tabletop.
