In the sprawling, dangerous lands of the Stolen Lands inPathfinder: Kingmaker, players will come across many strange items, mysterious relics, and magical curiosities. Some of these are known as Accursed Things cursed items that, while often appearing valuable or even powerful at first glance, bring dark consequences when used. These Accursed Things play a distinct role in both narrative and gameplay, weaving into quests, companion interactions, and even kingdom development. Knowing what these items do, how to handle them, and where they fit in the world can enhance your understanding of the game and prevent potentially disastrous decisions.
What Are Accursed Things?
The Nature of Cursed Items
Accursed Things inPathfinder: Kingmakerare special types of cursed objects that hold dark magic or ill intent. These aren’t just simple traps for the unwary they often have a deeper connection to the world’s lore, particularly to ancient ruins, necromantic influences, or divine punishment. Some may offer small bonuses, tempting the player to use them, only to reveal sinister effects later.
While the term Accursed Things isn’t always officially labeled in the game, it generally refers to objects that carry a mechanical curse, narrative importance, or a connection to otherworldly evil. Identifying them can be tricky, but experienced adventurers learn to tread carefully when an item seems too good to be true.
Common Traits of Accursed Items
- Unusual magical auras when identified.
- Negative effects that only become apparent after use.
- Ties to necromancy, demons, or forbidden knowledge.
- Triggers unique dialogue or events when carried.
- Can affect companions’ loyalty or morale.
Notable Examples of Accursed Things
Accursed Things in Quests
Throughout the main campaign, players may come across several cursed artifacts that are tied directly to quests. These may be hidden in tombs, guarded by powerful enemies, or offered as suspicious rewards. For instance, some quests in the later stages of the game involve retrieving old relics that bear curses tied to their previous owners warlords, dark priests, or ancient creatures. Keeping or using these items might provide short-term gains, but at the cost of unforeseen complications.
One notable example involves an item recovered from a forgotten ruin. At first, it appears to be a valuable magical accessory, but after equipping it, one of your companions might begin acting strangely, triggering new dialogue and story choices. Choosing to destroy, cleanse, or keep the item becomes a moral and tactical decision.
Cursed Weapons and Armor
Among the more dangerous Accursed Things are weapons and armor that offer powerful enchantments with hidden costs. Some might drain the user’s health over time, attract undead enemies, or reduce saving throws. A greatsword that deals bonus damage may seem appealing, but if it weakens your Fortitude, you’ll pay the price when facing poisons or disease.
- Dagger of Malevolence: A blade infused with shadow magic that causes the wielder to become more susceptible to charm effects.
- Armor of Whispers: Grants spell resistance, but causes nightmares that reduce the wearer’s Constitution.
- Helm of the Howling King: Boosts intimidation but causes enemies to target the wearer first in combat.
Relics and Forgotten Objects
Not all Accursed Things are meant to be equipped. Some are relics, notes, or containers holding dark magic or unfinished rituals. These items might be used in future quests or offer secret knowledge. But interacting with them recklessly can curse the party, weaken your kingdom, or unleash monsters into your realm.
These items are usually found in hidden places or during special events. Examples include ancient tomes with forbidden spells, relics connected to the First World, or even pieces of otherworldly beings sealed in old temples. Holding onto these can have long-term implications that go far beyond combat stats.
How Accursed Things Affect Gameplay
Character Development
Cursed items often have unique interactions with companions. For example, a lawful good character may express disgust or fear when an evil item is picked up. Evil-aligned characters might admire or be drawn to these objects. Over time, these reactions influence party dynamics and even unlock or block certain dialogues and quests.
Characters who use these items may develop reputations as corrupted or untrustworthy, altering how NPCs and factions view them. If you lean into cursed magic, you might attract different followers or push others away. This can open up new gameplay paths or challenges depending on your choices.
Kingdom Events and Curses
Accursed Things aren’t just personal problems they can bleed into your kingdom’s health and safety. If such an item is displayed in your throne room or integrated into a project, it may bring chaos. Events like plagues, cult uprisings, or resource failures might occur. On the other hand, cleansing or studying these items through kingdom projects can unlock rare boons or knowledge.
Some Accursed Things can only be removed or purified through special missions or by enlisting the help of divine spellcasters. Failing to address them can lead to permanent kingdom penalties or unique crisis events that challenge your leadership.
How to Identify and Remove Curses
Detecting Cursed Items
There are several ways to identify cursed items inPathfinder: Kingmaker, though none are foolproof. Spellcasters with high Knowledge: Arcana or Lore: Religion skills may recognize signs of corruption. UsingDetect MagicorIdentifyon suspicious items may reveal vague warnings or incomplete information.
However, some curses are hidden until the item is equipped or used. Saving frequently before equipping unknown items is a smart habit. Listening to companion warnings or narrative hints is another way to avoid falling into a cursed trap.
Removing or Dealing with Accursed Things
Once an item’s curse has taken effect, options include:
- Remove Curse Spell: A divine spell that can lift simple item curses if cast by a strong enough cleric or druid.
- Dispel Magic: Useful for temporary effects or identifying magical disruptions.
- Quest Completion: Some cursed items require a specific quest to remove or transform them.
- Destroying the Item: Risky, but sometimes necessary. May anger certain factions or companions.
- Sealing or Burying: Rituals or special locations may allow for the safe disposal of dangerous artifacts.
Roleplaying with Accursed Things
Using Curses for Storytelling
Accursed Things can add depth and tension to your character’s journey. Choosing to keep a cursed item can be a sign of arrogance, desperation, or a thirst for forbidden power. Letting the curse change your character’s decisions and relationships can enrich your experience and create memorable moments.
Some players lean into the theme of corruption, building characters that embrace the darker aspects of the world. Others may take the path of redemption, seeking to cleanse themselves and their companions of every curse. Both routes offer rich storytelling potential.
Companion Reactions
Each companion inPathfinder: Kingmakerhas their own opinions on cursed items. Characters like Tristian or Valerie may disapprove of keeping such artifacts, while Octavia or Harrim might see them as curiosities. Your decisions around these items will subtly influence how your party evolves over time.
Accursed Things inPathfinder: Kingmakerrepresent more than just mechanical penalties they are narrative tools, moral tests, and gameplay challenges wrapped into intriguing packages. Whether found in forgotten ruins, offered as rewards, or discovered by accident, these cursed items can reshape your journey through the Stolen Lands. Understanding how to identify, use, or dispose of them allows you to navigate their dangers and even use them to your advantage. Embracing or rejecting their power is entirely up to you, and that choice may echo through the fate of your kingdom.
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