Daniel (@DungeonDive) reviews two solo adventure games: Korg: The Scars of Silvos by Caleb Ingley and Bilge from Neon Rot. While both games share the goal of delivering engaging solo gameplay, they sit at opposite ends of the spectrum in theme and complexity. Korg offers a cozy, straightforward fantasy experience where players act as knight-errants completing quests to secure a plot of land for retirement. With minimal setup requiring just a six-sided die, paper, and pencil, it’s ideal for quick, casual play. Bilge, on the other hand, plunges players into a grim, body-horror setting where prisoners delve into the Leviathan, a massive alien beast, to mine precious ambergris. Featuring intricate mechanics like parasite systems, map-building, and a discomfort tracker, Bilge delivers a richly atmospheric but complex adventure.
Korg: The Scars of Silvos emphasizes simplicity and speed. Players embark on hex-crawling adventures, rolling on random encounter charts and completing quests such as recovering stolen goods or slaying monsters in dungeons. Its one-roll combat system and streamlined mechanics make it accessible, though Daniel suggests the game could benefit from more detailed world-building and NPC generation to add depth. In contrast, Bilge immerses players in a darker, more complex experience. Navigating the Leviathan’s grotesque interior, players manage fatigue, unlock nerve-based sphincter doors, and deal with parasites that alter their characters’ abilities. While Daniel praises the thematic richness and creative mechanics, he notes some rule inconsistencies that may require interpretation during play.
Both games excel within their niches. Korg provides a light, enjoyable fantasy romp suited for quick sessions, while Bilge caters to players seeking a grim, deeply atmospheric journey with strategic challenges. Daniel highlights how these games demonstrate the versatility of solo tabletop adventures, offering vastly different experiences for players depending on their preferences. Whether you’re looking for comforting fantasy or grotesque intensity, Korg and Bilge each bring something unique to the table.