Pathfinder Roleplaying Game

The original Pathfinder Roleplaying Game, first published by Paizo Publishing in 2009, was built as an extension of the Dungeons & Dragons 3.5 Edition ruleset under the Open Game License. This makes Pathfinder broadly compatible with D&D 3.5 material, though it is a separate system with its own rulebooks and setting.

Pathfinder is set in the fantasy world of Golarion, which features a detailed array of continents, nations, and pantheons of deities. Paizo has published extensive campaign setting material for Golarion, including the popular 'Adventure Path' series that takes characters from low levels through high-level play.

Pathfinder Second Edition was released by Paizo in 2019 and streamlined many of the rules from the original 2009 First Edition, particularly around action economy and character customization. First Edition remains popular for its depth of options, while Second Edition is generally regarded as more accessible to new players.

Pathfinder uses a d20-based resolution system where players roll a 20-sided die for attacks, skill checks, and saving throws. The system also uses other polyhedral dice for damage rolls and other mechanics, consistent with its roots in the D&D 3.5 tradition.