The following archetypes are excellent choices for use in a campaign in which dungeoneering and subterranean exploration are major themes—but a character with one of these archetypes can hold their own on the surface as well. Some of these archetypes are based on combat and magic traditions developed by underground dwellers; others were invented by treasure hunters and explorers.

When a party of heroes ventures into a dungeon or the caves of Underland, some of the adventurers may be doing so for the first time. Others are simply returning home. Below are backgrounds suitable for characters native to underground environments.

This section contains new monsters that are likely to be encountered in dungeons or deep underground. Some of these monsters are referenced in chapter 2, “Random Dungeon Delves” or “3-Page Dungeons,” while others appear nowhere else in this book. In either case, use these monsters as you see fit in your own dungeon adventures.

The following cultures are more often encountered beneath the earth than above it. Some of these cultures are closely identified with a particular heritage, while others are more general. No heritage is monocultural, however; any culture may include creatures of any heritage, and vice versa.

Many of the species that dwell in Underland’s winding caverns are little known on the surface world. Only the most well-traveled grimlocks, mycelials, oozefolk, rockborn, or motley have seen the light of the sun. Ratlings and doppelgangers, on the other hand, are familiar to, though rarely welcomed by, aboveground communities.