From the introduction:
Set deep within the back hills of Maine lies the ancient and crumbling mansion of "TraumenTur". It's despised and whispered to be a source of a malignant evil. Death has knocked upon its door and misfortune has cast its dark shadow. The choice has been made and TraumenTur calls for you. The police have "chosen" you to investigate and to retrieve a priceless heirloom. They claim to be overworked and understaffed but you can tell.
They are afraid.
Before the night is over, either the vaulted book, or the truth will be exposed. If you fail misfortune will choose again.
Enter The House of Torment.
The House of Torment is a game that invites you to be filled with the fear and terror normally reserved for scream inducing nightmares; or cheap horror movies.
All you need to play this game is 5 dice, a pencil with an eraser and a some paper.