If you want to add bounty hunting to your solo campaign, Dead or Alive includes solo rules for tracking marks. It is a good secondary purchase.
If you're looking for the best way to play solo, the official "solid piece" you need is the Dead or Alive scenario generator.
Osprey Publishing released this as a free resource to provide a structured solo experience. You can download the official Stargrave: Dead or Alive Solo Scenario Generator PDF directly from their site. Key Solo Resources: Stargrave: Dead or Alive
: This is the primary solo/co-op expansion. It allows you to generate random scenarios, complete with "bounty" targets and AI-controlled enemies, so you don't need a human opponent to run the game. Stargrave: Hope Eternal
: While not a free PDF, this is the official solo/co-op campaign book. It features a full narrative campaign designed specifically for one or more players working together against the game system. Core Rulebook
: You still need the main rules to build your crew and understand basic combat, though the solo PDFs provide the specific "AI" logic for how enemies move and take actions.
Pro Tip: If you enjoy the solo mechanics in Stargrave, the creator (Joseph A. McCullough) also released Perilous Dark for Frostgrave
, which uses very similar solo logic that can often be adapted for sci-fi settings. Stargrave: Dead or Alive Solo Scenario Generator
Here’s a sample post you can use on forums, social media, or a blog to discuss or share the Stargrave solo PDF:
Title: Taking on the Galactic Rim Solo – Stargrave Solo PDF is a Game Changer
Just wanted to give a shout-out to the Stargrave solo/co-op PDF from Osprey Games. If you’ve been on the fence about playing Stargrave without a regular group, this little supplement opens up the ‘verse in a big way.
What’s inside?
Why it works:
The AI doesn’t try to mimic a human opponent perfectly — it focuses on threat priority and random behavior charts that create genuinely surprising moments. One game, my science officer got pinned down by a malfunctioning security droid, while in another, a neutral scavenger team turned hostile mid-game due to a random event.
Tips for solo play:
If you already have the core Stargrave book, grab the solo PDF. It’s cheap, well-written, and turns the game into a fantastic emergent narrative experience for one player.
Anyone else tried running a full solo campaign? Which captain powers worked best for you solo?
Would you like a shorter version for Twitter/X or a printable reference sheet instead?
The primary solo-play resource for is the free digital supplement Stargrave: Dead or Alive
, which was released to provide solo mechanics and a scenario generator for independent crews. Osprey Publishing Resource Overview: Stargrave: Dead or Alive
This supplement allows players to run missions without an opponent, focusing on hunting bounties known as "Marks". Osprey Publishing Availability : It is a free PDF download available on the Osprey Games resources page Core Mechanics The "Mark" system : Your crew tracks down specific outlaws and criminals.
: Includes a step-by-step reaction list for creatures and enemies encountered during the game. Scenario Generator
: Provides random tables to determine the setting, enemy gangs, complications, and the specific bounty targets. Requirements : It is designed for use with a standard crew of ten models and the core rulebook. Expanded Solo and Co-op Options Dead or Alive
is the primary free entry point, later expansions integrated solo and cooperative play directly into their campaigns: Supplement Solo Content Type Description Quarantine 37 Mini-Campaign
Includes a solo/cooperative campaign that can be played with a single crew or two players working together. Hope Eternal Full Campaign
A dedicated book designed specifically for solo and cooperative narrative play, featuring a connected series of missions. Dead or Alive (Print) Enhanced Rules
A printed version of the original PDF was released in 2024/2025, adding expanded lore, illustrations, and updated mechanics for modern supplements. Official Supporting Documents (PDF)
The following official PDF aids are helpful for managing a solo session and are available for download from the Osprey Games website Osprey Publishing Stargrave: Dead or Alive Solo Scenario Generator
For enthusiasts of Joseph A. McCullough's sci-fi wargame, finding the right "stargrave solo pdf" is the first step toward exploring the Ravaged Galaxy without needing a live opponent. Whether isolation dictates solo play or a deep narrative experience is preferred, developer Osprey Games provides several accessible digital files and standalone books to facilitate single-player campaigns. 🛰️ Essential Official PDFs for Solo Play
Navigating the resources available directly from the publisher simplifies getting the necessary documents.
Dead or Alive Solo Scenario Generator: This is the most crucial document for independent players. It was released as a free digital supplement and is accessible on the official Osprey Publishing Gaming Resources page. This generator allows players to construct unique bounty-hunting missions.
Stargrave Quick Reference: Keeping turn sequences and combat modifiers fluid is essential when managing both a crew and automated enemies. The official Stargrave Quick Reference PDF outlines basic movement, group activations, and combat rules.
Crew Sheets and Creation Templates: Tracking the captain, first mate, and soldiers as they gain experience is necessary. Fillable tracking sheets are available directly via the Osprey Gaming Resources Portal. 🎲 Core Mechanics of the Solo Ruleset stargrave solo pdf
The free Dead or Alive digital download operates differently than a standard player-versus-player match. Understanding these foundational changes is required to execute a successful game. The Targeted "Mark"
Instead of standard competitive loot-grabbing, solo missions revolve around tracking a specific target known as "The Mark."
Players must complete specific complications connected to the Mark to earn their full contract payout.
The Mark always activates last during the designated "Gang Phase" to create tension. Shifted Turn Sequences
Standard gameplay relies on initiative rolls to determine who goes first. Solo play strictly organizes the phases to allow an automated enemy artificial intelligence (AI) to counter player movements:
Captain Phase: The player activates their captain and any soldiers in their immediate vicinity.
Gang Phase: All enemy AI combatants and the main Mark resolve their movements and attacks.
First Mate Phase: The player activates their second-in-command and remaining soldiers.
Creature Phase: Any unaligned wandering aliens or beasts resolve their AI instructions. AI Behaviour Priorities
To effectively run the enemy turns without bias, Stargrave uses a specific priority flowchart for automated combatants:
Combat Engagement: If an enemy is in base-to-base contact, they will always execute a fight action.
Line of Sight Shooting: If an enemy has a clear shot at a crew member and possesses a ranged weapon, they will shoot.
Movement Toward Targets: If out of combat and without a clear shot, the AI will move its full distance toward the closest visible crew member. 🚀 Expanding Beyond the Free Files
While the free PDF generator offers incredible replayability for standalone missions, players looking for cohesive, narrative-driven campaign structures have retail options.
Hope Eternal: This dedicated expansion book focuses entirely on solo and cooperative campaigns. It tells the story of independent crews fighting back against tyrannical pirate fleets. Players can read about the physical book or purchase digital formats directly on the Osprey Hope Eternal Product Page.
Quarantine 37: This supplement contains a built-in solo campaign involving a derelict space station filled with zombies and xenomorphs. 🛠️ Board Setup and Winning the Game
To get a solo match running efficiently using the downloaded scenario generator:
Board Size: Use a compact 2.5 by 2.5-foot table layout to ensure fast, brutal engagements.
Heavy Terrain: Use plenty of scatter terrain and line-of-sight blockers. Sci-fi wargames with firearms turn into instant "kill boxes" if the map is too open.
The Extraction Rule: Unlike standard games that end when a specific objective is met, solo scenarios in Dead or Alive only end when the player has successfully extracted every surviving crew member off a table edge.
To help you get the best setup for your single-player campaign, let me know: Do you prefer one-off bounty hunts or a narrative campaign? What miniatures and terrain do you already have available?
Stargrave: Dead or Alive solo PDF is an essential tool for any player looking to explore the "Ravaged Galaxy" without a human opponent. Originally released as a free solo scenario generator
by designer Joseph A. McCullough, it has since been expanded into a comprehensive physical supplement Overview of Features The Bounty System
: The core of the solo rules revolves around "marks"—specific outlaws or criminals with prices on their heads. Your crew travels to hunt these targets for money, vengeance, or justice. Scenario Generation
: The system uses randomized tables to create unique missions. The expanded version offers 20 different settings, 20 complications, and 20 distinct marks, allowing for up to 160,000 possible game combinations Tactical AI : Like other McCullough games (e.g., Frostgrave
), enemies follow a simple "stat-block" AI. While straightforward, this can feel "swingy" due to the D20 mechanic, which favors chaos and narrative over deep tactical crunch. Is It Right For You?
The search for "Stargrave solo pdf" primarily points to Dead or Alive
, a dedicated solo supplement originally released as a free digital PDF by Osprey Games. While several Stargrave expansions offer solo rules, Dead or Alive is the most direct entry point for solo play. Stargrave: Dead or Alive Review Overview
This supplement transforms the competitive skirmish game into a solo bounty-hunting experience. Core Mechanics
: You control a crew of bounty hunters chasing a "mark" (a specific NPC villain) and their gang. The AI System
: It introduces a step-by-step reaction list for enemies, ensuring their movement and attacks are automated without a human opponent. If you want to add bounty hunting to
: The latest physical/updated version includes 20 different settings, 20 complications, and 20 unique marks, creating up to 160,000 possible game combinations. Solo Difficulty
: Reviews suggest the system is "brutal and scrappy". The turn sequence is modified to put the enemy "Gang Phase" between your Captain and First Mate phases, making positioning more dangerous. Comparison of Solo PDF Options Supplement Primary Focus Solo Integration Dead or Alive Solo Bounty Hunting Built for solo. Includes a scenario generator. Hope Eternal Narrative Campaign Designed for Solo/Co-op play with a 10-scenario story. Quarantine 37 Horror/Aliens Competitive but includes specific solo rules for the campaign. Key Takeaways for Solo Players Stargrave: Dead or Alive Solo Rules Review
Official solo content for is primarily found in two key supplements: Dead or Alive , which focuses on randomized bounty-hunting missions, and Hope Eternal
, which features a narrative-driven solo/co-operative campaign. Stargrave: Dead or Alive
Originally released as a free 20-page PDF during the COVID-19 lockdown, Dead or Alive
has since been expanded into a full physical and digital book.
Solo Scenario Generator: Provides tools to create thousands of unique missions by mixing settings, enemy "marks," and complications.
Bounty Hunting: The primary objective is to hunt specific "Marks"—unique villains with their own stats and special rules.
AI Rules: Introduces a refined creature action flowchart that dictates how enemies move and shoot based on line-of-sight and combat status.
New Narrative Content: The updated version includes 20 settings (e.g., jungle, star port, abandoned mine) and 20 different gang configurations. Stargrave: Hope Eternal Hope Eternal
is a dedicated solo and co-operative expansion that includes a full narrative campaign.
10-Scenario Campaign: A connected story where independent crews strike a blow against massive pirate fleets.
Solo/Co-op Mechanics: Features specialized rules for solo play, including adjustments to turn phases where creatures activate before soldiers.
New Gear and Rules: Contains a new loot table with 20 items and environmental rules for underwater and high-radiation scenarios.
Experience System: Uses a modified experience table tailored for solo play, awarding points for specific in-battle actions rather than just loot or kills. Comparison of Solo Content Dead or Alive Hope Eternal Primary Goal Randomized Bounty Hunting Narrative Campaign Format Scenario Generator Connected 10-Scenario Story Enemy Style Unique "Marks" and their gangs Pirate fleets and sea creatures Play Style Solo or Co-operative Stargrave: Dead or Alive Solo Rules Review
For solo play in , there are several official PDF resources and expansions specifically designed for lone players or cooperative play. Official Solo PDF Resources
Stargrave: Dead or Alive: This is a free PDF supplement that provides a solo scenario generator for bounty hunting missions. It allows you to create unique narrative missions without a human opponent, using a basic "AI" system to manage non-player characters (NPCs).
Download Dead or Alive Solo Scenario Generator (Osprey Publishing) Stargrave: Hope Eternal
: This is a full campaign expansion available in eBook (PDF) format. It features a linked series of scenarios and complete rules for solo or cooperative gameplay. Purchase Hope Eternal PDF at Osprey Publishing Related General Resources
Osprey Publishing provides various free PDF downloads to support any style of play, including:
Quick Reference Sheets: A condensed version of the core rules for fast lookup during play.
Crew Sheets: Standard and form-fillable versions for tracking your captain and soldiers.
Power Cards & Templates: Printable aids for tracking special abilities and blast radius measurements. Full List of Stargrave Gaming Resources Deep Paper (Deep-Dive) Alternatives
If you are looking for solo skirmish games with even deeper narrative or "paper-heavy" mechanical depth, the community often recommends: Frostgrave & Stargrave Gaming Resources - Osprey Publishing
There are two primary official PDF options for playing solo, ranging from a free basic generator to a full commercial campaign book. Stargrave: Dead or Alive (Free Supplement)
This is a free PDF provided by Osprey Publishing that serves as a solo scenario generator.
Purpose: Designed specifically for solo play, it allows you to generate bounty-hunting missions where your crew tracks down unique outlaws.
Key Features: Includes rules for generating marks (targets), random settings, and complications.
Availability: You can download the free version directly from the Osprey Publishing Gaming Resources page. Stargrave: Hope Eternal (Full Solo/Co-op Campaign)
If you are looking for a complete, narrative-driven experience, this is the first full-length expansion dedicated to solo and cooperative play.
Purpose: It features a 10-scenario campaign where you take on the powerful pirate fleets. Key Features Title: Taking on the Galactic Rim Solo –
: Provides comprehensive rules for playing without an opponent, new crew options, and a structured storyline. Availability: Unlike Dead or Alive
, this is a paid supplement available in PDF format for ~$24.00 on sites like DriveThruRPG or Osprey Publishing. Essential Free Resources
Regardless of which solo system you use, you will likely need these free supporting PDFs from the Osprey Resources page: Stargrave: Dead or Alive Solo Scenario Generator
The Ultimate Guide to Stargrave Solo PDF: A Comprehensive Review
Stargrave, a tabletop miniatures wargame set in a post-apocalyptic world, has been gaining popularity among gamers and hobbyists alike. The game's unique blend of strategy, role-playing, and miniature modeling has captivated audiences worldwide. For those looking to experience the game in a more solo-friendly format, the Stargrave Solo PDF has become a highly sought-after resource. In this article, we'll dive into the world of Stargrave, explore the benefits of playing solo, and review the Stargrave Solo PDF in-depth.
What is Stargrave?
Stargrave is a tabletop miniatures wargame designed by Alex A. Mende and published by Stargrave Games. The game takes place in a post-apocalyptic world where players take on the role of a faction leader, guiding their team of survivors through a harsh environment filled with raiders, mutants, and other threats. The game combines elements of strategy, role-playing, and miniature modeling, allowing players to customize their armies and engage in turn-based combat.
The Benefits of Playing Stargrave Solo
While Stargrave is designed for multiplayer gameplay, many players enjoy playing solo for various reasons. Some may not have access to a regular gaming group, while others prefer the flexibility to play at their own pace. Playing Stargrave solo allows players to:
What is the Stargrave Solo PDF?
The Stargrave Solo PDF is a digital resource designed to facilitate solo play in Stargrave. This PDF contains a comprehensive guide to playing the game solo, including:
Review of the Stargrave Solo PDF
The Stargrave Solo PDF is an excellent resource for anyone looking to play Stargrave solo. The guide is well-organized, easy to follow, and filled with useful information and resources. Here are some highlights:
Conclusion
The Stargrave Solo PDF is a must-have resource for anyone interested in playing Stargrave solo. With its comprehensive gameplay mechanics, pre-generated campaigns, and character generators, this PDF provides everything solo players need to enjoy the game. Whether you're a seasoned Stargrave player or new to the game, the Stargrave Solo PDF is an excellent way to experience the world of Stargrave in a more solo-friendly format.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the Stargrave Solo PDF? A: The Stargrave Solo PDF is a digital resource designed to facilitate solo play in Stargrave, a tabletop miniatures wargame.
Q: What does the Stargrave Solo PDF contain? A: The PDF contains solo gameplay mechanics, pre-generated campaigns and storylines, character and faction generators, and tips and strategies for solo play.
Q: Is the Stargrave Solo PDF suitable for beginners? A: Yes, the Stargrave Solo PDF is suitable for beginners, providing a comprehensive guide to playing the game solo.
Q: Can I play Stargrave solo without the PDF? A: While it's possible to play Stargrave solo without the PDF, the guide provides a wealth of resources and information to enhance the solo gaming experience.
Where to Buy the Stargrave Solo PDF
The Stargrave Solo PDF is available for purchase on various online platforms, including:
Final Thoughts
The Stargrave Solo PDF is an excellent resource for anyone looking to experience the world of Stargrave in a more solo-friendly format. With its comprehensive gameplay mechanics, pre-generated campaigns, and character generators, this PDF provides everything solo players need to enjoy the game. If you're interested in playing Stargrave solo, the Stargrave Solo PDF is a must-have resource.
Stargrave: Solo is arguably the best $8 accessory a Stargrave player can buy if they don't have a regular gaming group. It transforms a competitive skirmish game into a rich, narrative-driven experience. It captures the "Every man for himself" ethos of space piracy perfectly—sometimes the universe deals you a bad hand, the loot locker is empty, and the alien predator is right behind you.
If you have a box of miniatures gathering dust because you can't find an opponent, this PDF is the solution. It turns Stargrave into the ultimate solo tabletop RPG.
Osprey Games sells watermarked PDFs exclusively through DriveThruRPG. This is the gold standard. You can buy the Stargrave Core Rulebook PDF here. Currently, the core book does not have robust solo rules, but it has the foundation. Price is typically $20-$25 USD.
It is important to note that Stargrave: Solo is not a "scenario book." It does not give you 20 pre-written missions. Instead, it is a toolkit. It gives you the engine to play any scenario from the core rulebook or the supplement The Last Argument of the Dead by yourself.
The PDF includes:
The Google search volume for "stargrave solo pdf" has risen steadily since the game’s launch. Why?
"Stargrave solo PDF" refers to interest in playing or obtaining solo-play resources for Stargrave (a sci-fi skirmish tabletop wargame by Joseph McCullough) in PDF form. This analysis examines what players seek, legal and availability considerations, solo-play options and adaptations, community content, and recommended next steps to satisfy both legal and gameplay needs.