Zem

Zem is a world of civilizations fallen, abandoned, and reformed. It's terrain is defined by it's extreme landscapes and the remnants of colossal structures left behind by an Ancient God race know as The Liminals.   Many Era's of History have passed since the mythic age of creation and the Liminal Ascendancy, and what was once was fact or fiction has become intertwined as Legend and History. Few groups exist that keep old technologies and old knowledges from disappearing. Human, Dwarven and elven settlements dot the world and underworlds, but the porous nature of Zem's reality introduces a wide variety of creatures and beings to it's lands... as well as larger threats.   [The Apherion] or Planar nexus, hosts Zem but infinite other realms. Some are 'closer' to Zem and even intersect and help stabilize and influence its material plane - while others exist an infathomable distance away accessible only to those insane enough to venture by means of Magic beyond the possibility of return.   Most Gods and Races and Classes from approved Wizards of the Coast Published works for 5e can be found in, or could be found in, Zem. Even if the specific history and culture may vary. Another way to imagine Zem is a world once ruled by magic infused technology beyond the capability of most anyone alive today that has returned to a near Darkage Fantasy ruled by Magics. Ancient Liminal Technology is to Modern Dwarven Technology what old times player piano's are to a modern day arranger keyboards. Some find themselves able to manipulate these ancient materials and technologies, while others are content simply to control what they cannot understand, but most of the strife, calamity and destruction which marrs the surface of Zem - as well as a fair few of its wonders - can be traced to this power.  

Note About Running with 5E

  From a Mechanical Standpoints this is a High Magic setting, balanced by the introduction of scarce Ancient Technology. While that may seem like just creating 'super magic' this technology must play by hard rules that are outlined herein this accompanying Campaign Setting Guide.