The Black Book mod for Warcraft III

The Black Book, prieviously tagged as 'The Abyss' is a modification for Warcraft 3 [TFT].

TBB promises to deliver a unique melee system, backed by a large selection of custom and unique graphics and factions. A quick glance at the gallery should provide a sizeable idea of the scale of new units involved.

The two races that have had work done are the Rictus and Keltoi - rival factions located in the northern realm of Northrend.

The Rictus originate from a lost cabal of the Highborn who fled the Maelstrom. They took to a life of secrecy and studied the dark magics and death. Those of great power transformed themselves into undeath to escape their mortal bounds, and became liches. The weaker elves took roles of labour and sacrifice, serving in death as they did in life.. Predominantly Naga, the Rictus' appearance combines serpentine horror with decadence and undeath.

The Keltoi are a race of humanoids native to Northrend. They honour battle and glory above all else and have strong affinity with nature and animals.

Other races are proposed, but factions are being produced in a modular fasion in order to allow a staged release of content.

The mechanics are to be altered towards a more realistic combat system. This is reflected in:

* Lower health rates
* Higher damage rates (and damage ranges).
* Natural chances to critical strike, parry and dodge.
* Varied and thorough natural and skilled abilities (and passives) for all units.
* Territory-orientated gameplay. Nodes, camp sites, ruins exploration, creep bosses, etc.

The emphasis of gameplay is on strategic control of territories and composition of forces. Manual resource gatering has been removed, along with typical Warcraft heroes.