RPG SRDs

SRD stands for System Reference Document. SRDs are the rules of a role-playing game released under the Open Game License or Creative Commons. Tabletop role-playing game creators often release SRDs so other game designers know exactly what content is protected and what is usable.

Following the guidelines, you can use RPG SRDs to create role-playing games. Game rules cannot be copyrighted; they would need to be patented. However, obtaining patents is a long and difficult process. A patent application may be denied after years of waiting and significant expense. SRDs provide a way for game creators to clearly define what content is free for other creators to use. (I used the Open D6 SRD to create my game Anarchy.)

I’ve gathered a comprehensive list of RPG SRDs. Check them out below. Some are direct links, some are linked off official sites, and some are on DriveThruRPG. The vast majority are free to download.

RPG SRD Reference

If you would like to learn more about SRDs or the Open Game License, see the links below.

• System Reference Document (Wikipedia)
• Open Game License (Wikipedia)