The last of the samurai have nowhere to turn, and yakuza thugs and street fighters now hold the respect of the streets. Shangti cowboys have showed the island the power of firearms, and mechanists have proven the triumph of machine over superstition. But the old ways linger. Kabukika, warriors of the theater and performance magic, hold onto their traditions, as do the nikobo, who seek to rid the world of the evil oni. As the land travels farther from its traditions, its spirits grow restless...

An alternative setting for Iron Gauntlets, Steampunk Musha features a Victoriental feudal land torn between honoring the old traditions and embracing new technologies. It includes all new and original player races, such as clockwork ronin, the half-demon jinteki-oni, keshou (goblin cousins), and the juunishi-p'o (human-spiritual hybrids of the zodiac animals); new gimmicks, backgrounds, and vocations; two new forms of magic; new dueling, melee, and ranged weapons including firearms; and a bestiary that includes dangerous creatures, spirits, and oni.

Steampunk Musha can be used as a base setting for Iron Gauntlets, providing an overview of the world, as well as detailed information for several provinces. Plus, a sample adventure is included to help guide directors. The various elements of the setting offer lots of ideas, making this a very useful playing aid. Steampunk Musha can also be used with any other setting as a mysterious island discovered by your traditional fantasy characters.