How to Run Call of Cthulhu Starter Set for New Keepers
By Asmodee – Asmodee USA | Published: 2026-10-30
Category: How-to Guides
A step-by-step guide for first-time Keepers on running the Call of Cthulhu Starter Set, including scenario selection, rules prep, and common pitfalls.
Quick answer
Start with the solo scenario "Alone Against the Flames!" to learn the basic rules, then run the three-player scenario "The Haunting" for your first group session.
Why the Starter Set works for new Keepers
The Call of Cthulhu Starter Set is designed to ease newcomers into the role of Keeper. It includes a solo scenario that teaches the core mechanics step by step, plus three group scenarios that gradually increase in complexity. This structure lets you learn the rules at your own pace before managing a full table.
Because the box contains pregenerated characters, maps, and a quick-reference rulebook, you don't need to prepare anything beyond reading the scenarios. This reduces the upfront work that often intimidates first-time Keepers.
Common first-Keeper mistakes to avoid
New Keepers often try to run all scenarios back-to-back without a break. The scenarios are designed to be played individually, so give yourself time to reflect and adjust between sessions.
Another pitfall is over-explaining the rules during play. The Starter Set rules are streamlined; let the scenario text guide you and look up details only when needed. Your players will enjoy the mystery more if you keep the pace brisk.
How to run your first game
- Read the solo scenario first: Open the Starter Set and read "Alone Against the Flames!" from beginning to end. Play through it once by yourself, making decisions as if you were an investigator. This teaches the core dice rolling, skill checks, and sanity rules without pressure. Common mistake: skipping the solo scenario because you plan to play with friends. The solo run builds confidence and reveals rules you might miss otherwise.
- Choose your first group scenario: After the solo run, pick "The Haunting" (for 3 players) as your first group scenario. It is the simplest and shortest, with a clear investigation location and a manageable monster. Read it twice to understand the key clues and NPCs. Checkpoint: make sure you know where the investigators can find the hidden clue in the basement; many new Keepers forget to describe it.
- Prep the handouts and maps: Lay out the map of Arkham and the pregenerated character sheets. Photocopy or display the scenario handouts (letters, newspaper clippings) so players can examine them. Set aside the percentile dice and the six-sided dice used for luck and sanity checks. Common mistake: handing out all handouts at once. Reveal them one by one as players discover them to preserve the mystery.
- Run the first scene as a guided tour: Start the session by reading the opening boxed text from "The Haunting" out loud. Then let players introduce their characters. Guide them to the first location (the Corbitt house) by having a neighbor mention strange noises. Keep the pace slow and encourage roleplaying. Checkpoint: if players seem stuck, have an NPC give a gentle nudge rather than letting the game stall.
- Learn the combat and sanity rules on the fly: When combat or a sanity check occurs, pause and read the relevant rule from the quick-reference booklet. Explain it simply: roll percentile dice under your skill to succeed; for sanity, roll under your current Sanity score. Do not worry about advanced rules like pushing rolls or bonus dice yet. Common mistake: trying to explain all combat rules before the first fight. Just teach the basic attack and dodge actions and add details as needed.
What's in the box
- Call of Cthulhu: Starter Box Set, 7th Edition: Contains three scenarios designed for 3, 4 and up to 5 players, plus a solo scenario in "Alone Against the Flames!" You can learn the game alone before running for a group, and the varied player counts let you match the scenario to your group size.
Call of Cthulhu: Starter Box Set, 7th Edition
