Delta Green: Agent's Handbook

Delta Green is a game that bridges the gap between classic Lovecraftian horror and modern procedural drama. Originally introduced as a Call of Cthulhu scenario in 1992, it has since evolved into a standalone RPG that blends cosmic horror with the paranoia of government secrecy. If you’ve ever wondered what happens when The X-Files meets the Mythos, Delta Green delivers a dark, gritty answer.

We dove deep into the mechanics, themes, and presentation of Delta Green to see if it’s worth adding to your RPG library. Here are our thoughts:

Opening Thoughts

Delta Green’s biggest strength lies in its ability to bring Lovecraftian horror into a familiar modern setting. It’s a game that appeals not only to fans of horror but also to those who enjoy investigative dramas or action-packed thrillers. While it doesn’t reinvent the wheel in terms of setting, its mechanics and tone give it a unique edge. However, the game isn’t without its shortcomings, particularly in its art and presentation, which may leave some players underwhelmed.

Let’s break down the key aspects of the game:

The Setting (B)

The premise is simple yet engaging: You are someone who has encountered the Mythos—horrors beyond comprehension that threaten humanity’s fragile grip on reality. Most Delta Green operatives are government agents—FBI, CIA, or even park rangers and geologists—but the game also makes room for civilians who’ve stumbled too close to the truth. Once inducted, these characters must work in the shadows to contain the Mythos, balancing their covert missions with the challenges of maintaining a normal life.

Delta Green excels in blending everyday realism with cosmic horror. It offers a familiar framework for players who love procedural dramas like The X-Files, Criminal Minds, or Fringe, while introducing a Lovecraftian twist. The contrast between seasoned agents and fresh recruits creates endless storytelling opportunities, as does the ever-present tension between duty and personal cost.

Art (D)

Art is often the first thing that draws players into a game, but unfortunately, Delta Green stumbles here. The illustrations feel generic, resembling filtered photographs or clip art rather than evocative pieces that capture the horror and intrigue of the Mythos. While the minimalist, dossier-like layout may align with the game’s themes of government secrecy, it doesn’t do much to immerse players in the setting.

One redeeming aspect is the inclusion of in-world elements, like notes, coffee stains, and blood splatters, which add a layer of immersion to the book’s presentation. However, this doesn’t fully compensate for the underwhelming quality of the artwork.

System and Playability (A)

Delta Green builds on the tried-and-true percentile system of Call of Cthulhu, making it accessible to anyone familiar with RPGs. The mechanics are straightforward: roll under your skill percentage to succeed. Where Delta Green stands out is in its additions to the base system, particularly the Lethality and Bonds mechanics.

  • Lethality: Combat is swift and brutal. A single bullet can end a character’s life, emphasizing caution and creative problem-solving over brute force.

  • Bonds: These represent a character’s relationships with family, friends, or mentors and serve as a buffer against the sanity-shattering horrors of the Mythos. However, relying too heavily on Bonds can strain or destroy those relationships, adding emotional depth and stakes to the gameplay.

These mechanics encourage a balance between investigation, interpersonal drama, and survival, creating a rich and rewarding experience for players.

Ease of Use (A)

Delta Green shines in its usability. The rulebook is well-organized, with clear tables and summaries that make it easy to reference rules during play. Character creation is streamlined, with templates and pre-generated characters available for quick setup. This makes it an excellent choice for both newcomers and experienced players.

For Game Masters (referred to as “Handlers”), Delta Green offers plenty of tools, from detailed scenarios to modular rules for crafting your own adventures. Its episodic structure lends itself to flexibility, allowing groups to run one-shots or longer campaigns with equal ease.

Product Quality (B)

While the content of Delta Green is solid, the physical product falls short of excellence. The core book is functional, with sturdy binding and an intuitive layout, but it lacks the premium feel of higher-budget RPGs. That said, the inclusion of supplemental materials—such as pre-generated characters and detailed scenarios—adds value and makes it a worthwhile purchase for those diving into the game.

Final Thoughts (B)

Delta Green is a versatile game that excels at blending modern procedural drama with cosmic horror. Its accessible system, engaging mechanics, and flexibility make it a great choice for a wide range of players. While its lackluster art and simple setting may not appeal to everyone, its strengths in gameplay and narrative potential more than make up for its shortcomings.

Pros:

  • Flexible gameplay that accommodates various play styles

  • Engaging mechanics that add depth to storytelling

  • Great for episodic campaigns and short scenarios

Cons:

  • Lackluster art that fails to enhance the atmosphere