Krampus is a figure from Alpine folklore, especially popular in Austria, Germany, Switzerland, and the Czech Republic. His roots go back to pre-Christian times and he was later incorporated into Catholic traditions. In folklore, he is the demonic companion of Saint Nicholas, who, instead of rewarding well-behaved children, punishes the disobedient ones. Krampus usually appears as a horned beast with fur, hooves, a long red tongue, and a terrifying face. He carries chains, which he rattles ominously, and bundles of birch branches (called “ruten”), with which he symbolically strikes children.

Sometimes, he carries naughty children in a sack or a basket on his back, and according to legend, he may abduct them. He mainly appears on December 5th, known as Krampusnacht, when he accompanies Saint Nicholas during his nightly visits.

That’s the tamed, modern version of the folklore.

In the game Anno Domini 1666, Krampuses are ancient demonic entities. Like sirens or vampires, they are beings that dwell in the material world and feed on specific kinds of energy. Krampus is a creature drawn to children’s negative emotions — fear, anger, jealousy, and hatred. He senses them like a predator smells blood and follows their trail relentlessly — even through snow, darkness, and time. The stronger and more intense the emotions, the easier it is for him to find his way to the source.

Children don’t need to see him or even know who he is — it’s enough for them to harbor anger or envy in their hearts, and Krampus already knows where they are.

He doesn’t appear right away — first come the sound of rattling chains, then a chill in the air and a growing sense of unease. As he gets closer, the air thickens with fear, and shadows seem to move on their own. The terror of his future victims only intensifies Krampus’s hunger. The demon grabs the children and places them in his magical basket, where enchanted chains bind them and begin to drain their life force. If the child is not rescued, in a matter of days, only a mummified body or a handful of bones remains. This energy empowers Krampus almost instantly.

Truly corrupted individuals sometimes venture into remote areas to summon Krampus and forge a pact with him. Krampus can create magical amulets, and all he asks in return is help during his nightly hunts.