When you dive into the world of RPGs, you often face mundane challenges, like dealing with oversized rats in a tavern setting, a classic trope that has been mocked by many game designers. However, in reality, these gigantic rodents are not mere figments of imagination.

The Gambian pouched rat, which can reach up to 88cm in length, challenges our previous underestimations about their existence. These creatures are now finally getting the recognition they deserve, thanks to the efforts of designers who have incorporated them into game narratives.

Additionally, the subalpine woolly rat, which can also grow quite large, has only been recently documented in its natural habitat. Documented by František Vejmělka from the Czech Academy of Sciences, these rodents were found in New Guinea, highlighting a remarkable instance of insular gigantism, where animals evolve to larger sizes on islands.

Vejmělka stated, “These are the first specimen records in 30 years for this spectacular mammal poorly known to science”. The increasing visibility of such animals only emphasizes the creativity of RPG designers who incorporate these elements to enrich the gaming landscape. So, the next time you encounter a giant rat in an RPG, remember they might just be telltale signs of nature’s whimsy and not just a trope for laughs.