Runebound is one of a number of fantasy games published by FFG set in the fictional world of Terrinoth including Descent: Journeys in the Dark, Rune Age, BattleLore, Dungeonquest, Runewars, and Legacy of Dragonholt, with which it shares the same heroes, artwork and some items.

The base game takes place in the realm of Terrinoth, a land covered by various terrains: plains, rivers, forests, hills, swamps, and mountains.

Along the way they will have to contend with the armies of Sir Farrow, the followers of Margath, and the monsters of the realm such as the bat-like Razorwings and ghoulish Ferrox.

The heroes each have their own unique traits including health, stamina, skills and the three primary stats of the game: Mind, Body, and Spirit.

During the game, the heroes attempt to complete adventures of increasing difficulty, colored respectively green, yellow, blue and red.

The heroes are able to acquire gold in their adventures which can be used to purchase items that enhance their abilities such as magic swords, enchanted armor, and healing potions.

Many small box expansions listed below offer variants changing the victory conditions, themes, monsters, and items available.

In a review of Runebound in Black Gate in 2011, Jeff Stehman said "There's a story running through the game that any turn of card can add to it.