Kunic's Torch Rules for Shadowdark

This supplement replaces Shadowdark’s real-time torch countdown with a fast, tense, dice-driven system designed to feel fairer, more interactive, and more fun at larger tables.

Instead of every torch lasting a fixed amount of real-time minutes, the torchbearer now rolls 1d20 at the start of their turn. Only on a natural 1 do you consult a 2d6 Torch Events table, where many results cause the flame to flicker and threaten to go out next round, while others instantly snuff the light with added consequences. 

Because players are the ones rolling, luck tokens can now be spent to reroll dangerous results, giving the system a built-in safety valve without undermining tension. Since players may spend Luck tokens to keep their torches alive, those tokens will be less available during combat, creating a meaningful risk-and-reward tradeoff.

Magical light is handled separately with a caster-tracked 1d10 spin-down, keeping magic reliable but not limitless. GMs are encouraged to use counter-magic or magical interference if players lean too hard on spell-based illumination.

The result is a tense but flexible lighting system that fits seamlessly into Shadowdark while giving players more agency and a clearer sense of risk.