Gaius Tindareus |
Lucky he was almost dead. Without Raamanti's reach we would have been in trouble.
But if we go to the net store and get Daud a net, we should be good to go for anything like this in the future. ;-)
On that note, I made a Huntmaster Cavalier for another campaign that has stalled out. He was going to use his dogs' pack tactics with Teamwork feats to get a lot of bonuses, and he had the Net Adept feat--lets you use a net as a melee reach weapon, which is great since it's a one-handed weapon. Very fun.
Pyron Firehide |
That seems interesting. Different and interesting. I never thought of doing something like that. I am still just trying out all of the different classes and races available.
Zart the Lost |
Hello everyone.
As we come to the end of book one, I have made a decision: I will be leaving the game.
This has not been an easy decision for me, and first and foremost I would like to thank everyone here for including me. I know accommodating another player in an existing group is never an easy thing, and I hope it has been an enjoyable experience for all of you. Thank you especially to DM Crispy for running a fun adventure.
Primarily, I’ve decided to cut back on my PbP. Also, I caught up with the GM who ran (what I thought was) book 1 and part of book 2 for me before: turns out I've played much more than I had originally remembered. We only played about 10-12 sessions, but he skipped big chunks. I was waiting for a certain something (sorry no spoilers) to happen, but he said that it wasn't until the start of book 4. An honest mistake on my behalf, and he ran so little of the actual content that almost all of this felt new to me. For example, his adventure had nothing about Rolth (or his apprentice) or the dismembered Shoanti in it. He didn't like that plot line, so he trimmed it (and filled in the gaps where he needed to). Also, we captured Trinia, but there was no chase. Interestingly enough, we didn’t hand Trinia over to Croft. Something else happened for us in the next bit (no spoilers again, sorry).
However, those are not the only reasons I have decided to leave. I’m putting my other reasons in a spoiler below, if you care to read. It’s a little critical, but I believe in being honest - and especially so at times like these.
Please do keep in mind that I genuinely appreciate you having me included in your group and that I have enjoyed gaming with all of you. Also keep in mind that one of the reasons I’m writing this instead of keeping silent is that all of you have the potential to do great things with PbP and (I hope) have more fun with it. I love the PbP community here and I would dearly like it to continue to grow in numbers and improve in quality of play.
Finally, there are exceptions to everything I will say below. If you feel you are an exception, then it is probably true.
So, without further ado my other reasons for leaving:
The posting frequency is not my style. I prefer at least once per day, but if I’m honest, I really prefer multiple times per day. It has picked up of late, but it really does get very sporadic. Sometimes (for reasons beyond their control, I know) we were waiting for almost a week to hear from some players. For long absences, it’s nice to see (as we sometimes did) a quick discussion post to warn us. If for no other reason, it lets the GM know to bot that PC rather than waiting on them.
The quality (or rather content) of the posts from other players here is also not my style. I like to play PbP like an evolving novel. The AP is the framework, but we make up the words. Many times it seems as though all the roleplaying from the GM and other players gets is a cursory read and then a one-line response. There are notable exceptions (that earlier bit of roleplaying when Zart was reunited with Donna being my favorite exception) but this dungeon really sealed the deal on this point for me.
The last one is more a piece of advice than a criticism. It revolves around keeping things moving. A very well respected PbPer and community contributor, Painlord, has written a guide on PbP. This is his #1 point: Painlord's Guide to Advanced PbP, #1: Become the master of the Push and of the Hook > Always Be Pushing.
There were so many times that I'd see posts that didn't advance the plot at all. Especially when you are posting only once per day or every other day, you need to make sure the GM and players are aware of what your next desired course of action is. Even if you have questions for the GM about what's going on, put in assumptions and help the game to progress. It's not just the GM's responsibility to say "you go there” - if it was, I'd just read an actual novel or play my PlayStation. Please do read that guide above, even if you only read the first point in it. There beautiful examples in Painlord's guide of what I'm talking about. It will make you a better PbPer and (most importantly) it will help all the games you're involved in to progress.
So, thank you again so much for including me. I hope you continue to enjoy yourselves in this game - after all, that’s what gaming (in any form) is all about.
Epilogue post coming from Zart very soon. If you read that first, then this hopefully explains that!
Pyron Firehide |
I realize I have been writing one-liners often recently since I have been quite behind on my schoolwork. I have been trying to keep my daily posts going. How do you all feel about my participation in the group? Have my posts been too inadequate for all of you? Are you glad I am in the group? Would you rather have me leave the group? What are your thoughts?
Gaius Tindareus |
Hello everyone.
As we come to the end of book one, I have made a decision: I will be leaving the game.
This has not been an easy decision for me, and first and foremost I would like to thank everyone here for including me. I know accommodating another player in an existing group is never an easy thing, and I hope it has been an enjoyable experience for all of you. Thank you especially to DM Crispy for running a fun adventure.
Primarily, I’ve decided to cut back on my PbP. Also, I caught up with the GM who ran (what I thought was) book 1 and part of book 2 for me before: turns out I've played much more than I had originally remembered. We only played about 10-12 sessions, but he skipped big chunks. I was waiting for a certain something (sorry no spoilers) to happen, but he said that it wasn't until the start of book 4. An honest mistake on my behalf, and he ran so little of the actual content that almost all of this felt new to me. For example, his adventure had nothing about Rolth (or his apprentice) or the dismembered Shoanti in it. He didn't like that plot line, so he trimmed it (and filled in the gaps where he needed to). Also, we captured Trinia, but there was no chase. Interestingly enough, we didn’t hand Trinia over to Croft. Something else happened for us in the next bit (no spoilers again, sorry).
However, those are not the only reasons I have decided to leave. I’m putting my other reasons in a spoiler below, if you care to read. It’s a little critical, but I believe in being honest - and especially so at times like these.
** spoiler omitted **...
I respect your decision, and thanks for playing with us!
Yeah, for me, as I've said before, not being able to post on my phone is really slowing down my play. I read everything, and I have things I want to say, but by the time I get home things have progressed and I would just be parroting something someone else said.
Hopefully that will get better in a few months when I get a new phone.
FWIW, I'm not offended by your comments on the game, and in the same spirit I would like to respond--our characters are, let's face it guys, very sub-optimal. Me and Daud took level dips we didn't need, Pyron has a few different casting classes, Tolenn is fairly powerful but all of her abilities haven't come online yet, but Zart as a decently-optimized Summoner with an Eidolon tougher than all of our front liners (and, to make matters worse, can't roll below a 17) just blew the rest of the party out of the water.
It's hard to contribute to a narrative when Raamanti kills everything, has better senses than our fighters, better perception, Zart is a pretty good party face, etc. It was almost as if we were the sidekicks without much to contribute except following what Zart was doing and aiding him (also because, as you said, your posting rate was far above ours and was driving the story). And Daud's rolls were so bad that even when he only tried to Aid Another he still failed. I've been there before, and that can get frustrating after awhile.
Zart the Lost |
I never looked at it that way, Gaius. Yeah, it must have been frustrating at times. I love optimizing characters (not quite min-maxing, but still getting a lot out of a build). Not sure if Crispy would allow it, but you could always look at rebuilding your characters for book 2 if you're not happy with their performance.
In the old days, I used to prefer RP builds and to hell with optimization, but 3rd Ed D&D and then Pathfinder have gradually made it so you can't survive with sub-par builds... especially when you play published material.
Anyway, I'm truly sorry if I took too much away from the rest of you. I definitely was pushing forwards on purpose, and my posting frequency meant I was usually pushing first. Can't help those dice rolls, though! I think the BBCode loved my eidolon.
Tolenn |
@Zart
Thanks for playing, Zart. Your reasons for leaving were explained respectfully , for that ...kudos.
Constructive criticism is always welcome, we all can learn to do this thing a bit better :)
The main objective of all this is to have fun, hope you continue to in your other games.
@Pyron
As I said above, my opinion is that we all can improve and get better at this. You realize that some of you posts may have been a bit to succinct. So be it. We've all done so at some point....well maybe not Zart :)
Nobody here is perfect, but I think we're all having fun, I certainly am.
Wednesday Daud |
Repeating what Gaius and Tolenn said, thank you for being respectful and I hope you have fun in your future games.
DM Crispy |
All, I was going to wait until the exact end of Book 1 (which is a stone's throw away), but since it is brought up already, I think it's time to address it.
At times, I've enjoyed running this game, and the characters in it. At other times, it has been a chore to push you guys along.
To be honest, Zart asked if he could join an AP I was running, and I gladly accepted, since I was hoping his more demanding level of play would get the pace of the game up and get you guys to participate at a greater level. Instead, as noted, he became the star of the show (along with Raamanti), while you guys more or less faded into the background. SOME of this was attributed to his build being superb and his die rolls kicking ass, but some was also attributable to the fact that none of you truly tries to lead the group and push the action on a consistent basis.
We're nearing a decision on whether I decide to run Book 2, Seven Days to the Grave. The first half of this book is VERY RP intensive, and will flounder if we don't have a fully participating group looking to press things along. I'll be PMing each of you shortly, and will then ultimately decide whether to pull the plug on this game, continue with some of you and recruit, or continue with all of you.
It's definitely not a knock on you guys. I'm in a few of Zart's games on the forums, and I post fairly frequently, and I struggle to keep up at times with the almost frantic pace he sets. Let's talk and see what we come up with, and we'll go from there.
Wednesday Daud |
Already PMed you Crispy but I just wanted to say to everyone else that I enjoy playing with you all and really want to continue this campaign.
Pyron Firehide |
I agree that Zart was extremely respectful and helpful by providing useful literature with links. I am glad I was able to get through book one with you all. I had a very fun time. I am glad to know what book two is like ahead of time. I was posting and RPing a lot before my full-time teacher credential program started, which started in January. I realize that I am keeping you guys from really enjoying the game. Also, I do need to focus when more on my schoolwork which has been stacking up, because I have been getting behind.
I rely enjoyed my time, but I think this would be the best time to cut out, that is between books. I would like to finish the book if you don't mind, but then I should leave the game. I hope everyone continues to do well and have fun. Perhaps I will be able to join in a game with you guys when I complete my schooling.
Wednesday Daud |
*hugs*
Bones stays though.
Jokes aside you've been a blast to play with :3 but if RL comes first I understand if you do leave. If you do, then the same to you, I hope you have fun and continue to do well in all future games and endeavors.
Pyron Firehide |
I appreciate that. I would like to officially complete the book, but yes I will be leaving the group at that point.
Gaius Tindareus |
Guys, it's been fun, but I've decided to stop after book 1 as well. Here's what I sent to DM Crispy in response to his PM:
Hello DM Crispy,
Those are both fair and reasonable requests and I take no offense. I really appreciate you taking over this game for us and I know how much time and effort it takes to run a game.
That being said, I don't think I can continue with the game. My reduced ability to post has just taken a lot of my motivation out of this as it's been frustrating. I apologize for any problems this may cause, but I had a lot of fun this far!
Thanks,
mbauers
Wednesday Daud |
*whimpers*
I'll miss you too.
Tolenn |
@Pyron
That's too bad. Glad to have had the chance to game with you. Good luck with your schooling and see you aroudnd :)
@Gaius
As well, sorry to hear that. I know only too well the desire to get a good post in, only to be held up by RL. It's been fun! :)
Both of you take care, and hope to play with you again.
Well, Daud , it's just you and me.
I'm for continuing with some new blood, but ultimately it's Crispy's call.
Wednesday Daud |
*hugs paladin close like a security blanket*
I feel like abandoned puppies/kittens in a box with "free to good home" sign now.
Glad you're still here though :3
Wednesday Daud |
I guess now would be a good as time as ever so I just wanted to ask what do you guys think I should do with Daud? Retrain him completely as a Bloodrager? As a Barbarian? Keep him as is? Do something else with him?
Gaius Tindareus |
I guess now would be a good as time as ever so I just wanted to ask what do you guys think I should do with Daud? Retrain him completely as a Bloodrager? As a Barbarian? Keep him as is? Do something else with him?
I think you should definitely reskin him as just a bloodrager. It fits the character, I like how you flavor the bloodrage, and let's be honest--how often do you forget about Vuk? ;-)
A Huntmaster without his dog is just a worse Fighter. Bloodragers, OTOH, are badass both flavor-wise and mechanically.
Wednesday Daud |
Thankies :3
Yes... Poor Vuk... I'm sorry!
Wednesday Daud |
Hehe sorry if it feels familiar but Barbarians and Bloodragers are what I almost always play :3 I just love the concept of Rage too much. Plus I'm still going for that Prestige Class I showed you Crispy :3
Hmm, really? I find the Barbarian better compared to the BR, the only reason I went with it instead of Barbarian is because of the Kyton Bloodline.
If not Bloodrager what class do you think would suit Daud better Crispy?
Tolenn |
With his kind of loner, been alive for decades wanderings, I would almost be inclined to say ranger. You can be a barbarian if you want, though.
Tolenn, you also have the same option to retool, if you see fit to.
Nope I'm happy with her as is.
Pyron Firehide |
Thanks for letting me finish the book. It's time to say adios. I look forward to the game where I can play in another game with you guys in the future.
Pyron Firehide |
Thanks, I will. If anyone ever wants to say hello, I am still slowly but surely running my 4th edition game on mythweavers titled: Adventures in the Shadowfell. Either way, enjoy your game and good luck! I am glad we saved her in the end.
Wednesday Daud |
*waves goodbye*
It was awesome with you guys, best of luck in all your future endeavors.
Tolenn |
Indeed! You were stalward companions on our beginning adventures, too bad we won't see the heights of our power together ! :)
All the best guys, thanks for playing.
Tolenn |
OK Leveled up
+9 hp
+1 Dex
+1 smite evil Yay!
+1 Lay on Hands , increase to 2d6
Channel postive energy 3/day, 2d6
Aura of Courage
Immunity to Fear
Saves +1 F +2 R +1 W
CMB +3
CMD +3
1 spell : Challenge Evil
Also , Daud don't forget you get 250gp from our last mission.
Wednesday Daud |
Thanks, almost did forget hehe
Will have rebuild and level up done when I get to work in a few.
Tolenn |
Crispy, will we have a bit of time to do some shopping?
Wednesday Daud |
Lol yeah, new people coming in with all this fancy magical stuff and we don't even have any masterwork stuff.
Terri Riverrun |
Hi!
Nice to see you Rysky. :D
So... I am mostly done with my stats, save some possible tweaking, but I haven't finished buying gear yet. I have enough for a wand of CLW, and I was planning on getting some scrolls. Any suggestions on which scrolls? I normally don't play spellcasters, and never have played one at this high a level.
At the very least, my mistakes should provide some entertainment. ^_^
Wednesday Daud |
Now it's Wednesdays Angels lol
*beat*
I'm a dead man.
Terri Riverrun |
Terri's not as, um, exuberant as Kiley is. Scold, maybe. Maim, no. Kill, certainly not.
They both blush with embarrassing ease though. :)
Amira Oenestria |
JUST NEED TO FINISH PURCHASES, WILL DO LATER WHEN A BUNCH OF SCREAMING SOCCER FANS AREN'T DRIVING ME NUTS.