This work provides a detailed overview of the Cascadia sub-sector which is intended as part of the alternate Traveller universe setting Clement Sector... but of course it can be transplanted to wherever you want to put it in YOUR Traveller universe! Some of the worlds described here have already appeared in Gypsy Knights Games's "Quick Worlds" series, but they have been rewritten and tied more closely to the Clement Sector story. Others are brand new.

Starting with a sub-sector map and overview, we read that there are twenty inhabited solar systems here. Most are in loose clusters of worlds in adjacent hexes, but some are more remote. All are independent although those close together may have formed some kind of loose association with one another.

We then move on to the systems themselves. Beginning with a system overview, the physical, atmospheric and hydrographical details for the main inhabited world are given. The geography is described along with a small map of the planet. Then we get to more social aspects such as population distribution, government, notable laws and local culture. It's the sort of detail that an intending visitor would find helpful and can be built upon readily when the party has reason to land there. Or indeed if a character chooses that planet as their homeworld.

The worlds are quite different in style, varying from dictatorships to democracies. Laws regarding weapons possession/use and attitudes to alcohol and other drugs are made clear... plenty of opportunity to have a run-in with the average gun-toting thirsty character if they do not abide by local requirements! Some of the restrictions can be unusual - there's even a planet where sugar is forbidden, never mind more dubious substances such as coffee or booze. On some worlds, surveillance of everyday life is routine and accepted, on others individual freedom is a precious thing. Religion can be all-pervasive, or a matter for individual belief. There's even a 'company world' completely owned by a brewing company - this is one place where the consumption of alcohol is not only permitted but encouraged, during off-duty hours at least!

There's plenty of scope for adventure here, with a fascinating variety of worlds to visit. The overall impression is of a sub-sector populated by distinctive worlds each busy about its own pursuits, never mind whither the party goes there or not, a convincing 'alternate reality' feel that makes it all the more interesting.

Return to Subsector Sourcebook 1: Cascadia page.

Reviewed: 12 November 2014