User summary: Taverns and Tales is a rules-light, fast-start role playing game. The game is played on a board grid with token representing individuals. Movement is along the grid, by squares. Character creation involves selecting a character Class, which subsequently determines all other character abilities and statistics. For example, all Bards have 5 Stamina, 13 Defense, 7 Speed, 4 Weapon, a Guitar Accessory, and Inflict 4 damage, as well as having a predetermined kit of equipment and a specified special ability. It is suggested that scenarios be created prior to play and not improvised. An introductory scenario, "Troubled Village", is provided. This rapid setup is much like a board game, but play subsequently follows typical role-playing methods. The rules note, however, that the method of setup does allow for easy solitaire play.