B/X is good. When characters have d6 hp and it’s instant death at 0 the combat becomes way more serious and tense.

If you’re going to die, better to die on the main quest. I avoid side quest distractions.

The best lore is lore made at the table with the players. The rest is just gm inspiration.

Removed by mod

The Lost World by Arthur Conan Doyle. Some of the dialogue feels a bit dated but so far I’m enjoying it.

The First Law by Joe Abercrombie. It deals with political struggles and empires clashing but not the end of the world. The characters are definitely more flawed and relatable at times.

If you’re running a sandbox, you just need to review a bit ahead of the party in the various dungeons.