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Leandra Christine Schneider's page

Contributor, RPG Superstar. Organized Play Member. 102 posts. No reviews. No lists. No wishlists. 1 Organized Play character.


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Dark Archive Contributor, RPG Superstar aka Leandra Christine Schneider

Congratulations!

I loved that you used the Gnomes and the Bleaching in your adventure. It was the first article I wrote for Paizo after last year's competition and I am excited that they'll see an adventure by your hand, Superstar!

Dark Archive Contributor, RPG Superstar aka Leandra Christine Schneider

I am not as taken by the flesh-warping concept as some of my fellow spectators, but this is a far-above-solid entry that shows a lot of promise for next round.

Despite my highly personal (and likely unfounded) reservations, I can't deny that this entry just deserved it. Sooo...you have my vote.

Dark Archive Contributor, RPG Superstar aka Leandra Christine Schneider

This entry has earned a spot among my votes because of the novel approach it takes towards the conception of a villain.
I don't know if it is necessarily a "good" approach in sense of playability and likelihood of success when confronted with a party (very, very important aspects), but it captured me more than many other submissions.

One thing I've learned is, that every player(or DM) plays the game a little different and I could see this working well with the right... audience (I know, this one was bad :P)

You have my vote.

Dark Archive Contributor, RPG Superstar aka Leandra Christine Schneider

I have to admit, Aelfric sounded really weird to me at first and even put me off a little (maybe it is just because of my German, so forgive me for that)
BUT
Dream-Slayer, that totally turned it around. Totally.

Although I am wondering how exactly you'd pull this all off, I like the promise of this entry.
It has too much individual angles in my opinion, but that also means there is much to work with in the next round...and I am oh so curious. Especially when it comes to potentially vast stat-blocks.

Here is my vote.

(ahh...and the "veil" was cool too.)

Dark Archive Contributor, RPG Superstar aka Leandra Christine Schneider

Oh my, after only a few days of absence this entry has seen a lot of discussion.

Unable to add much more, I 'll humbly leave my vote. I really enjoyed the "leaves" and this villain raised above my expectations. I'm confident you can surprise us further.

...also, I'm happy you took on a difficult stat-block for next round :-)

Dark Archive Contributor, RPG Superstar aka Leandra Christine Schneider

Off-topic:

Matthew Morris wrote:
Christine seemed to disappear from the boards after she won.

On the contrary! I never appeared at the boards :P

I don't have a knack for involving myself actively in communities and I always struggle to avoid being too brief when I have to.
But maybe we can work on that. This drew me out of my shell after all.

On-topic:
I still like this bracelet and now I am curios about these dresden files.
In my opinion, seeking inspiration from books, movies, games or other kinds of fiction is important to avoid designing in a stagnant and constrained vacuum, that dulls and limits ideas.

Dark Archive Contributor, RPG Superstar aka Leandra Christine Schneider

I'm too coming to like this more and more every time I read it. Dash out my arcane lock concern above.

Dark Archive Contributor, RPG Superstar aka Leandra Christine Schneider

A named utility item. Let’s see what it offers to the dedicated group of PCs that already has everything.
A neat, portable bridge it is. That isn’t something that strikes me as terribly new, but it doesn’t need to do that to be solid enough.
I would've liked and additional info about how much weight can be put onto the bridge in numbers (only a single number in parentheses), so I could reference it in game if the need arises.

Positive:
I like where the price is. It is where crossing chasms should be solved somehow. I mean, the PCs could also use their potions of fly.

Negative:
I didn’t like the formatting too, you should really try to make it easier for your voters and keep up with the guidelines.
The use of a game term for warded wouldn’t have hurt either.

After reviewing all other items:
I have to say that this didn’t grab me from the beginning and it still doesn’t sorry about that, but I’m sure you can do great things in the future rounds of RPG Superstar 09 if you put your mind to it. Good luck!

Dark Archive Contributor, RPG Superstar aka Leandra Christine Schneider

Magical chalk usually isn’t something that deeply grabs my attention. This one, while not succeeding in totally enticing me, at least left me pondering the possibilities of so many walls of force.
At this price, it makes for an expensive expendable item every group will find a use for once in a while.

Positive:
The charge mechanic circumvention by using the length of the wall is clever.
Telling us what exactly happens when you draw a line in combat shows that you thought about this kind of application.

Negative:
The “straight out” could have been an orthogonal or some other crazy but precise word.

After reviewing all other items:
Welcome to RPG Superstar 09 ! After all these entries, this one is still fair, square and ready to draw something up for the next round!

Dark Archive Contributor, RPG Superstar aka Leandra Christine Schneider

Swallowing desiccated insect better has to get you a pretty awesome effect. This item delivers, although the user hopefully doesn’t live to witness the destruction he caused.

Positive:
I liked the name quite a bit. I don’t know why others didn’t, but maybe there is a hidden meaning to Blightlady that I am not aware of.
It conjures a lot of the horror stuff and its creepy effect might make the skin of the PCs crawl. (Pretty weak, I know :P)
Requiring a move action to swallow the bread was a good choice in my opinion. It is not as bad as a standard action, no one ever wants to use up, but it is also not the auto-succeed immediate action.

Negative:
It is a little bit too expensive for a suicide item with a limited additional effect. Once you start throwing a few of those at your PCs, you should ask yourself how the NPC got those in the first place.
The best feature of this item is labeled “NPC only”. That is not a super negative thing, but it allows only for a very narrow use of the item.
(Also, we have the save issue from above.)

After reviewing all other items:
It is sort of mid-range thing for me. Cool effect with some uncovered details. I definitely want to see more of you for RPG Superstar 09!

Dark Archive Contributor, RPG Superstar aka Leandra Christine Schneider

This is a good one right there. Besides what has been said by my fellow judges, I want to add that bestowing ranged capability to the monk is a very good design choice. This class lacks terribly at that field and adding this item already helps a lot.
This is the first item I instantly liked and I hope many like it follow.

Positive:
Blasting away swarms. Check.
Using terrain to the advantage. Check.
Looking super cool while doing all this. Check.
These Gloves have very useful abilities that are balanced just right. They use up the ki pool or stack –2 penalty upon –2 penalty…all at the right price.
Neat formatting too.

Negative:
*shrug*

After reviewing all other items:
I’d say this is definitely within my personal Top 8 for this round (and likely even better). Keep up the Superstar work!

Dark Archive Contributor, RPG Superstar aka Leandra Christine Schneider

Very evocative. I instantly imagined the line as “magically” spun somehow, so I didn’t miss that particular nonexistent detail. There is something to be said for clean utility items and this is one.

Positive:
You convey the flavour of an item really well. The Spider Hook isn’t something that I’d usually enjoy, but your descriptions were detailed and full of cute ideas.

Negative:
Maybe the hook ends up at being too simple over all. It doesn’t have that many uses outside of combat and nearly none within.

After reviewing all other items:
I find that many entries did fall for strange mechanics. The other judges might have discovered a few things here and there, but overall, I deem this item to be well crafted and worthy of the RPG Superstar 09!

Dark Archive Contributor, RPG Superstar aka Leandra Christine Schneider

I am not opposed to little creative craziness and out of the world ideas. After all, I welcome you to the RPG Superstar 09 and we asked for attention grabbing stuff.

Sean K Reynolds wrote:
Unclear when this happens ... every few hours over the course of the 1d4 days? All of a sudden at the end of the 1d4 days?

If the "within" were an "after"...like it is, it is undefined.

Sean K Reynolds wrote:
And something that just occurred to me - if a player drinks this, and is suddenly surrounded by floating eye-fish, can they ever get rid of them? Is it permanent? etc, etc.

As far as I see, yes. Once the fishy things are spawned, they remain until the end of time or until they are "released" (at will). This is covered up in the description.

Positive:
It is really creepy, maybe even the creepiest this year?
Adding brew potion to the feat requirements showed attention to detail.

Negative:
Unfortunately, the fishy thing didn’t do it for me this time. Maybe because the little ones reminded me of a "Simpsons" fish (although these have 3 eyes). Sorry.
Additionally, I have to invoke the bad pricing pharse again (this is covered in detail up there though).

After reviewing all other items:
It is one of the two creepiest things in this years contests. That’s a plus. Overall I am not a huge fan though, but I am sure you can do much better in future rounds, so I am looking forward to that.

Dark Archive Contributor, RPG Superstar aka Leandra Christine Schneider

Oh, I love what this one does very much. It is such a nice variation on the scrying item, that it doesn’t even feel like one of the unfashionable crystal balls. The modern sorceress needs dryad leaves!
As pointed out above, the application is limited and not that powerful since leaves can be obvious. I did have some trouble with several of the mechanics though…

First, let’s assume the “Possessor” = the one with all the magical leaves. After turning into a tree and starting the autumn style scry, the poor leaves are caught in some deadly area spell and take a bit of damage. Enough that at least one leave is destroyed…does that already spell the end of all that precious gold?

Positive:
It is a completely new way of scrying without a spell-in-the-can feel.
Nice formatting too.

Negative:
Not expressive enough on rule details.

After reviewing all other items:
Again, flavour and mechanics meet on the battlefield. This time, concept and flavour shred the flanks of the mechanics phalanx and win the day. This item is several ways of cool and earned its place in the RPG Superstar 09. I anticipate your next entry!

Dark Archive Contributor, RPG Superstar aka Leandra Christine Schneider

I don't like camping items (and I see I am not the only one at that). As much as they are useful, they are boring. The pavilion is an exception because of its unique style and well writing. I mean " unceremoniously" was really cool given the fact that it is a lordly pavilion.

Positive:
Well written item that actually made me smile in front of the screen.
Most players just love to boast before the NPCs, so you can’t be that wrong with a poser item like that.

Negative:
It is just a camping item, and an expensive one at that.

After reviewing all other items:
I liked this one better than some of the utility items, but I am still not fully convinced. Having no mechanical issues is a factor that speaks for this entry.
Welcome to the *bling, bling* RPG Superstar 09 *bling, bling* and enjoy your new forum bling tag (I assume there is one this year too)!

Dark Archive Contributor, RPG Superstar aka Leandra Christine Schneider

The first thing I noticed when reading this item was, that the author used "character with trapfinding ability" instead of rogue. That’s insightful and open design. Good work.
I am not so fond of the "3rd level or lower" limitation because it would be more fun if it could be used with more runes, while being not that much stronger.
The skill boost as an insight (it is a lens after all) bonus is a nice touch to an otherwise solid item.

Positive:
A neat idea that is well executed and without any serious flaw.

Negative:
A bit to pricey. It wouldn't have hurt to broaden its use a little bit.

After reviewing all other items:
Welcome to RPG Superstar 09 and congratulations on designing a solid item that leaves us waiting for more.

Dark Archive Contributor, RPG Superstar aka Leandra Christine Schneider

Wohoo! An initiative item. Having played a Iajutsu Master for 15+ levels, I think I've researched nearly every initiative cheat out there. That said, I know of one item that comes close to this, the "Ring of Anticipation" (Drow of the Underdark) which (in additon to some skill boosts) allows to roll twice for initiative and take the better roll. All the time. For 6000gp.
In my opinion, the ring is one of the most broken items out there, because initiative becomes crucial to survival in higher level play. That one round matters a lot, since many effects can kill in this space of time.

But back to the claw (and to why I mentioned the ring).
On one hand, I am fairly sure that the claw is way too good too. It is slotless and increases in value as the game progresses. On the other hand, if you use the ring as a baseline for initiative boosting items, the claw is limited and fair-priced.

Because of this predicament, I won't be doing my usual positive/negative thing now (although I do like the formatting), and instead base my final opinion on whether we take the ring as a baseline or not. In any case, I welcome you to RPG Superstar 09!

After reviewing all other items: Ring of Anticipation is in
You got a fair item there that, while not having that much of a background, is an alternative to one of the strongest magical equipments out there. Although I think the activation of the claw should be an immediate action. I’d like to see more of your stuff in the future.

After reviewing all other items: Ring of Anticipation is out
The item you propose is grows stronger and stronger as the game advances to higher levels of play. Combats get shorter and the value of initiative increases, while it becomes possible for a PC to own a few Mongoose Claws without expending much of his expected wealth.
Ultimately, this wondrous item might become a requirement instead of an asset, twisting the balance of the game seriously.

Dark Archive Contributor, RPG Superstar aka Leandra Christine Schneider

I don't think that this teleportation item leaves room for much abuse. While I'm not fully grabbed by it, it is fairly well executed (given that it is a bit of a complicated item). I think it could've also lived with a lower price-tag. At 64,000gp it is one expensive way to escape a tight situation (and one where you have to be prepared to escape in the fist place).
The thing I most liked about it, is the "cut the lifeline" mechanic. I assume it works like this:

CAN----------|CUT|---------HOOK
-->
CAN----------HOOK

James is right that it could've used a few more words on what exactly happens with the line when "cut" (does “remain intact” maybe mean, that the line stays at 700ft. length?)

Positive:
In my opinion it is a fairly good execution for a complicated concept within a tight word count.
I also loved the name ethereal tether…that is exactly what the item is.

Negative:
A bit too expensive for a simple escape item in my view and a bit limited in other fields of application, but this is not a serious flaw.

After reviewing all other items:
A fair teleportation item that leaves me guessing for further entries but doesn’t excite me all the way. Good luck in future rounds of the RPG Superstar 09!

Dark Archive Contributor, RPG Superstar aka Leandra Christine Schneider

A high level item, and a good one at that. I am impressed that you had the courage to write up such a complicated and potentially dangerous mechanic to submit here. It was a bold concept and you excuted it well...that defines a potential Superstar to me.

Positive
Bold concept with good execution.
Not overdone on name or back story.
It uses time thingies without messing everything up. That’s good stuff.
Nice layout.

Negative
I didn't spot anything, but I might have been blinded by the flashiness of this one.

After reviewing all other items:
…I have a favourite for this round. Yes, it is the most expensive and flashy item, but it just screamed Superstar to me (I might be too easily impressed…hmmm). Keep that up!

Dark Archive Contributor, RPG Superstar aka Leandra Christine Schneider

An hourglass makes for a fine wondrous item and connecting it with some sort of time mechanic fits the base object neatly. Being well written and structured, I was inclined to dig this item until I got to the Con damage part.

The application in combat could explain the name of the item, because the way it stands 90% of its use will be to touch attack for serious Con damage. This is just too good, since the damage (in HP) scales (with the HD of the target) and debuffs (lowering Fort save) or even kills its victim.

Positive
The aging effect is well represented through the Con damage.
Spotting the stone issue shows attention to detail and how players could abuse this item. That is a very important skill and a great plus that you managed to show that here.
Nice formatting too.

Negative
The 1d6 con damage is a killer for me. I know that it probably wasn't intended, but an effect that strong shouldn't stick around that easily. Especially at this price.

After reviewing all other items:
1d6 is still a lot. If there were a save…hmm, anyway, I like many aspects of this submission while hating only one, so I am still wanting to see what you got for future rounds of RPG Superstar. Avoid getting me sad again, ok?

Dark Archive Contributor, RPG Superstar aka Leandra Christine Schneider

Welcome here again!
I also think it was wise of you to try it with the same item this year and I enjoy reviewing it. The effect the mask has on its wearer's face is cool and grabbed me. In all, this item has a few minor benefits (immunity to ingested poisons and a +4 profane bonus to intimidate and saves against disease) and the very major bite attack and swallow.

I even tend to value the bite attack more than the grappling pinning ability (although this one has the cool), because an extra attack (at -5) just needs a source of extra damage (like sneak attack) to become awesome.
Super awesome. Maybe even a bit too awesome for the price?

Positive:
Nice style with the invisible mask that is altering the face. These are premium flavour words I’m never going to complain about.
The swallow whole ability is enjoyable and adds uniqueness.

Negative:
The bite attack on top of everything else is a bit much in my opinion. I mean if you could use the bite as a standard action only instead of gaining it as a natural attack, that would have been different.

After reviewing all other items:
I am inclined to like this even more because many items went a little over the top, so that is not that bad when viewed in comparison. Neat and creepy style that leaves me….hunger…for more of your Superstar stuff.

Dark Archive Contributor, RPG Superstar aka Leandra Christine Schneider

On one hand, the dream category is one of my favourites, on the other I dislike enhanced camping items, so let’s see what it will be. After giving this a bit of thought, I come to the conclusion that the immunity to dream effects as well as the nice "sleep in any position you want" made me like it.
Combined with fair pricing and formatting I am looking at a solid item.

I'd love to have a crossbow-watchman stand on his post hidden and terminator like until the PCs arrive...

Positive
Small groups nearly depend on camping items. This is a stylish one that holds up to the premise of protecting the PCs while making nightly encounters still a possibility for the DM to explore.
Good mixture of style and functionality.

Negative
I didn't spot anything…and I can do without explosions once in while :P

After reviewing all other items:
This is a solid and stylish one I might drop into my game. Good work contestant of the RPG Superstar 09!

Dark Archive Contributor, RPG Superstar aka Leandra Christine Schneider

At first glance this is a reasonably priced utility item that has an exceptional application in combat. The miss-chance mechanic (while being full of frustration and lots of die rolling), is very powerful and becomes better and better as its user advances to higher level.
This item is likely to remain useful for a broad level range.

Positive:
I like the pricing since a cloak of displacement, minor grants the same miss chance continuously for 24,000gp. While this item does that for one encounter (pardon 3 minutes) at the cost of a standard action.

Negative:
Boomer mentioned the name and I have to jump in on this one. Haunted sounds evil or necromancy like. In fact, when I started reading up on the item, I was surprised that it's effect differed from my expectation.

After reviewing all other items:
I still think this item to be fair in everything it does. It doesn’t make me jump around in joy, but it delivers good stuff that I am inclined to like. I’m looking forward to see how you're kicking it in future rounds of RPG Superstar!

Dark Archive Contributor, RPG Superstar aka Leandra Christine Schneider

This item is very solid. It has a fair bit of flavour, a nice mechanical perk and a good combination of all the minor things that make of an interesting and well balanced entry. While it didn’t grab me that much, I thoroughly enjoyed the submission and I wouldn’t mind discovering something like it in a supplement.

Positive:
Great plus on the substitution thing. It reminded me of beefed up spell components from other supplements, but taken to a higher and more dedicated level.
Nice combination of charge based and constant effect item.

Negative:
I didn't like the pricing info that much because other entries might have included it too. They likely didn't know it would be welcomed because the authors assumed it to be against the rules.
….and yes, that name misspelling has to be mentioned again and again :P

After reviewing all other items:
Now, after being surprised by a few ridiculous prices, I would have liked the rules to include a requirement line where costs have to be explained.
I still like this item quite a bit and think it to be above average in overall score. Good luck in the RPG Superstar 09!

Dark Archive Contributor, RPG Superstar aka Leandra Christine Schneider

Hmmm...golems...I like golems.
But hey, I am not letting you get away easy because of this. Fortunately, I don't see any problems with this item. It has three distinct and interesting protection effects (which is good, because it is a helm after all).

The use of immediate actions is well executed. It allows you to react to the spell, or critical that just hit you and every barbarian I know who started raging because of a hold person targeted on him (possible with the right feat), loved to be able to do that. I am sure you can wait to declare your action until the crit is confirmed...that is the power of immediate!
Also, the three effects fit the flavour seamlessly.

Positive
Lovely formatting.
Perfect use of immediate actions in my opinion.

Negative
Maybe a fair bit too expensive. How about 1 use per encounter, so you could have the fun all day long?

After reviewing all other items:
Welcome to RPG Superstar!
Very good job on the item. I am eager to see what you come up with in the future.

Dark Archive Contributor, RPG Superstar aka Leandra Christine Schneider

First, some of my opinions on the raised questions:

Jason Nelson wrote:
Do you need a free/empty hand, or is just wearing the gauntlet enough?

A definite YES from me on this, since the spell becomes "a ball of magic in your hand".

Jason Nelson wrote:
How do two-weapon fighting penalties apply to casting a spell? Would they be a penalty to the Will save to "catch" a spell if you're wearing two gauntlets?

Uh oh...I am reading the item totally different from anyone else. I understand it more like this:

  • Spell-catch gauntlets can be used in pairs.
  • Using a spell-catch gauntlet with a weapon incurs all the penalties associated with Two-Weapon Fighting.

    So, you'd basically always have TWF penalties while using your (one) gauntlet (to be able to catch spells).
    Of course, the spellcasting part of the item would be unaffected by this, but every attack you make with your main weapon gets the penalty as long as you use your gauntlet.

    Using the gauntlets in pairs, would just leave you with the doubled up ability to catch spells (could you try twice per spell?) and...well gauntlets (oh, I see...even magical ones...)to bash your foes into submission...with a TWF penalty.

    Jason Nelson wrote:
    Should spells of different levels cost the same amount of charges to catch?

    I think they do as it is written. o.O Should they?

    Jason Nelson wrote:
    Does throwing a spell at someone count as casting a spell for provoking AoOs?

    Definitely. In my view that is clear from the description.

    Jason Nelson wrote:
    Can you catch multi-targeted spells (like, say, slow or chain lightning? If so, what happens to other people targeted by the spell?

    Of course to A....and to B, I'd say that since the spell becomes a spell-ball in your hand, it is neutralized. But that is just an opinion and should have been made clear by the author.

    Jason Nelson wrote:
    Can you catch area-effect spells? Does that count as being "targeted"?

    *shrug* I guess...

    Positive
    It is a nice effect every player would like, that really important.
    IF it was your idea to balance the item's power with a permanent TWF penalty, then this is something new and worthwhile.

    Negative
    The mechanics are really wonky in my opinion. It is madness...
    Another thing I’ve noticed is the save DC to catch the spell in question. This roll is terribly hard and becomes even harder! I mean, I don’t have a Will save that rises one point per level, so by the time I can pay for one of those, I’d better be very lucky.

    After reviewing all other items:
    It is the age-old battle again. Supreme style versus unclear mechanics. This time, I am leaning hair thin to the style, but this item has some very ugly parts. I wish you good luck for RPG Superstar 09! Keep up the good ideas and back them with a little better researched mechanics. I am sure we all would love you for that.

  • Dark Archive Contributor, RPG Superstar aka Leandra Christine Schneider

    This is something that could make Bards stop singing. Many of the magical instruments out there function only a limited time, so wielding a weapon (and singing) prior or after their use is usual. It is different with this item. With its powerful effect it broadens the ability of any bard lucky enough to acquire one.

    Positive:
    The items effect is powerful enough to warrant the loss of weapons.
    Good use of Pathfinder material.
    Lovely formatting.
    Good offset cost in saves and perform checks.

    Negative:
    It might be a little too good, but I am not deducting many points because of that. Although I'd get it even if its price would be double the listed amount, so this isn't perfect for me.

    After reviewing all other items:
    Welcome to RPG Superstar!
    I am sure that I want to see more from this designer right now, and I embrace the concept behind the flute.

    Dark Archive Contributor, RPG Superstar aka Leandra Christine Schneider

    I read that item a little differently because of the “[..]to the target spell level[..]” part. I understand that the dispel might targets only a single spell (as a targeted dispel not directed at the person)

    PHB wrote:

    Targeted Dispel

    One object, creature, or spell is the target of the dispel magic spell.

    If that is true, it would solve many of the problems we read into the item and ultimately make it more worthwhile in my opinion.

    By the way, I think its super that the negative levels don't have a chance to get permanent in case they don’t outright annihilate you.

    Positive:
    Payment effects are always difficult to balance because two variables have to be adjudicated. You linked negative levels to spell-levels which is a neat way to do that in this case.

    Negative:
    As shown in the discussion above, there are a lot of things unclear with this item.

    After reviewing all other items:
    I will be obstinate and assume this thing works as I’ve read into it. That way it doesn’t have as many issues to bury itself and I can have a clear conscience when I say that I enjoy this item. I am a little unsure how it places itself in the field, but I wish to see more of you in the RPG Superstar!

    Dark Archive Contributor, RPG Superstar aka Leandra Christine Schneider

    The item does a lot and permanently changes aspects of the Character acquiring it. I generally like this kind of design since these items and the situations they create are memorable.
    I also think that a certain overlap in mechanics is a good thing. Spells can give you templates, Prestige classes can give you templates, so why not add an item that can do something like it?

    Positive
    It has got something I’d like to have for my NPC or PC. Wanting the item in my own game is shows how good the idea is.
    It is boosting companions. I am all for boosting those undervalued assets.

    Negative
    Ohhhh….. the power of it. I think it does add too much oomph for a too small price.
    The item makes the companion retain its type an adds the undead type. I don't think this is possible. What would happen to the creature's saves and HD for example? Use the undead type values or the original creature type values? I am a bit confused there.
    I am also confused with the price and cost because it is 12,000gp and 6,500gp instead of 6,000gp.

    After reviewing all other items:
    A few of the other entries, the Abyssal Spurs and the Cerebus Collar, both boost companion creatures. I think your item ultimately falls between those two. Overall, I feel some serious, albeit un-channelled, design courage behind you and wish you good luck in the RPG Superstar!

    Dark Archive Contributor, RPG Superstar aka Leandra Christine Schneider

    After one reading I knew what it did without any doubts or little checkups for exploits needed. Although my heart didn’t start to beat faster, I honour the tight design.

    Positive
    A very tightly designed item that leaves nothing to be desired in the mechanics category.
    Very good pricing too!

    Negative
    Actually, I can't spot much worth mentioning here except the arcane lock issue and the question of what happens with the key after the door is created (I assume its lies there just in front of the door ready for pick up…but you didn’t exactly mention it).

    After reading all entries:
    I’d have to say that you can surely turn it up a notch or two, but this item is solid, unique, without drawbacks, and ranking good. I’m with it and welcome you to the RPG Superstar!

    Dark Archive Contributor, RPG Superstar aka Leandra Christine Schneider

    I like banners, so I was pretty excited to get to read this (I even pushed it away a little to nurture my anticipation). Unfortunately, I did get the snow-white reference early and that spoiled a bit of the fun for me (seriously, dwarves and snow-white?!).
    The benefits the banner grants are some of the often used morale effects, so I am neither excited nor let down by that.

    Positive
    The use as a spear. I really liked that angle because it bolsters the martial background of the item quite a bit.
    Neat formatting.

    Negative
    A weapon with keen property and without a bonus is a no-no. That should have absolutely been there.
    The description made me chuckle a little, which pulled me out of the grim, martial mood you were starting to put up.
    The item has a price of 35000gp and a cost of 15000gp? I think that should have been 17,500gp.

    After reading all entries:
    While starting with a good concept, I feel this one has a lot of minor issues here and there. From its description to the Intimidate thing I have that “nearly” feeling all the time. I hope the issues are minor enough, good luck and welcome to RPG Superstar.

    Dark Archive Contributor, RPG Superstar aka Leandra Christine Schneider

    Clearly a Pathfinder item. That’s already a small plus. Additionally, a triptych is not common at all, so I am grabbed by what the item will do.
    Ok, it offer’s spells. Unfortunately this is not “that” exciting, but after all it is solid.

    Positive:
    Very good Pathfinder tie in and an uncommon base item.

    Negative:
    It is a spell in can, which might turn some people away from it.

    After reading all entries:
    I think this one has the best Pathfinder background of all items. It is fairly well executed, has no big failures and is unique in appearance. Good work there. Mechanically, it is among the least exciting items, but it is solid stuff. Welcome to RPG Superstar!

    Dark Archive Contributor, RPG Superstar aka Leandra Christine Schneider

    I also assume that the horn is to be used like a flashlight, and I enjoyed the mysterious and somehow creepy style of this item. Doing something new is always welcomed and you delivered with an easy to read description.
    I can live with the one minute duration, since it adds to the scene.

    Positive:
    It does something new and scored well on flavour too.
    Good formatting.

    Negative:
    Too expensive and narrow for my taste. It might be worth it in an undead heavy campaign, but otherwise most characters should invest this kind of money into more combat oriented items.
    The save DC of 11 against the negative effect is nearly negligible at a level where this item shows up. That is a mechanical drawback that needs to be added to the other concerns that have been raised.

    After reading all entries:
    Very good flavour and name for a somewhat narrow item. Others were more careful in those parts, but I welcome you to RPG Superstar 09 and wish you good luck!

    Dark Archive Contributor, RPG Superstar aka Leandra Christine Schneider

    A funny, yet easy to remember name for a new and exciting item concept. The breaking of the stacking rules is no problem for me, since this breach is contained and only focussed on the item’s effect.
    I’ve not seen the daze spell that could break my game yet.

    Positive:
    It is a low level item that is useful in actual combat. Many low-cost items are utility only and offer no bang to the martially inclined character. This one does.
    Being useful when you have multiples is also a touch that can be enjoyed.
    Good formatting.

    Negative:
    I have one big gripe here: The excessive die rolling that will ensue when I introduce this to my game. There is no reason at all, not to have two dazzlers on every shield in a higher level party. Even if the chance is only 5% (roll a 1 on the save) to inflict a 5% reduction in an opponents effectiveness, the players will use it nearly every combat round, taking away precious game time for a minor effect. After ten levels or so, it will become annoying.

    After reading all entries:
    The dazzler doesn’t have any great flaws except the one mentioned above. I just can’t get myself to jump over it, but I hope I am wrong and you end up blowing me away in the next RPG Superstar round!

    Dark Archive Contributor, RPG Superstar aka Leandra Christine Schneider

    Oh no...*sad*
    I really liked the idea of spurring your mount so hard that it actually transforms into a demonic and frighteningly effective killing machine. Difficult to control but devastating in combat.
    The fact that it transforms into a nightmare of rule-abuse has been thoroughly analysed by Jason and is such a drawback, that the item will destabilize any game with at least partially optimisation oriented players.

    Positive:
    Flavour wise it is a nice idea that I enjoyed greatly. I even might inject a modification of this item into my game.
    Mechanically, mount enhancing items are good to have in general since these beasts tend to be too weak. Especially at higher level.

    Negative:
    Getting a Nightmare for a negligible cost is way too powerful. Really. Sorry.

    After reading all entries:
    The extreme power of this item still kills it for me. I do hope you can make it on flavour alone, but I have to welcome you to serious RPG Superstar competition out there.

    Dark Archive Contributor, RPG Superstar aka Leandra Christine Schneider

    The way I understand it, you can throw it as a splash weapon using a ranged touch attack to hit your aerial enemy. The opponent saves or loses its ability to fly and since the author doesn't state any additional effects, the creature hits the ground nearly instantly.
    Since you need both, hit with a touch attack and your target to fail a moderate Fortitude save, I think this application is balanced. Low probability (hit, save, be in an aerial battle) for a potentially devastating effect.

    Positive:
    A straightforward approach using the encumbrance rules. This is unusual an therefore nice.
    Applications inside and outside of battle reward creative players, this is good too.
    Also, thank you for the formatting.

    Negative:
    Doesn't state if and how you can just "sprinkle" the dust in combat. That is something that should have been there and I miss it dearly.

    After reading all entries:
    Its varied applications got to me in the end. While the item is simple, using it effectively isn’t and that makes for a good wondrous item in line with Sovereign Glue and the Immoveable Rod (I know, rods are not wondrous :P ). Be a little bit more aware of mechanical details in future rounds. Good luck in the RPG Superstar 09!

    Dark Archive Contributor, RPG Superstar aka Leandra Christine Schneider

    Finally something that can blow up with a big explosion!

    Seriously, the loading property of this item has potential and it is clearly stated when it overloads. The price might be slightly too high (this is negligible) but the lack of stating the action required to discharge the device stumped me.

    The nonlethal damage exploit Jason mentioned is a bad thing and hopefully unintended. It would’ve been better to write that out though :-S

    Positive:
    The base mechanic is good and considering that the price is already at a certain height, choosing 50 points of damage is fine.
    The flavour also fits (but it may be slightly overdone).

    Negative:
    Not mentioning the action type and allowing for exploits leaves a good concept marred with lacking mechanics.

    After reading all entries:
    This is a close one. I’d like to see what you can do in the next round, but the mechanics in many other items were tighter. Good luck in the RPG Superstar 09!

    Dark Archive Contributor, RPG Superstar aka Leandra Christine Schneider

    Discovering empty design space is a great plus in my opinion. You did that by making the item interact with the bloodline mechanic. Good work.
    I also read that as "sorcerous" bloodline, so no deductions for that.

    Positive:
    It uses Pathfinder rules and has a good match of flavour with mechanic.
    I enjoyed the name. It convoked images of age old tombs and long spanning family dynasties in me, which fits what the item does.

    Negative:
    Although the flavour is nice, the item's effect is a little bland and just too strong.
    Hey, you could add this property for 1500gp onto any other necklace. I don't think there is a reason not to do that once you hit the mid-level range. Especially because caster level check DCs (like SR and dispel checks) scale evenly (you need about an 11+ to succeed) most of the time. This item will be worthwhile during your entire career and every sorcerer would want one.
    It is not automatically bad when this happens (everyone needs a cure potion once in a while), but in this case I think it is.

    After reading all entries:
    Coming back, I see this item somewhere in the midst of field. A few items did get too much on the power scale too, while others matched this in flavour and execution. I am not that troubled with the formatting issue, but ultimately I urge you to pay attention to this. It unnecessarily costs precious votes. You need these votes ;-)

    Dark Archive Contributor, RPG Superstar aka Leandra Christine Schneider

    Oh something oriental right there. I like the “nature’s force” angle very much and allowing only mortal flesh to ring the bell was several kinds of cool. Interesting effect and creative use of DR and SR countermeasures.

    Positive
    Coming up with a creative debuff mechanic.
    Good and consistent style that is unique in the contest so far.
    Clean formatting.

    Negative
    I can imagine several PCs trying to pull their blows when ringing the bell. Is that possible? I don’t think it is rules-wise, so this raises an eyebrow.
    Reducing the SR by mighty 10 points is like saying that the creature loses the SR completely. It virtually adds 10 to a check that approximately needs an 11+ to succeed. It is different with secondary casters or especially high SR (for their CR) creatures, but most of the time it is like loosing the SR completely.
    It’s a different thing with the DR since a few points still do something there.

    After reviewing all other items:
    It is a great item and unique to the contest. Although a little off on the value of the debuff, I still think it has the RPG Superstar vibe going for it!

    Dark Archive Contributor, RPG Superstar aka Leandra Christine Schneider

    The previous 32 are here (in the forum section):

    Previous items

    Edit: Rob is a ninja :P

    Dark Archive Contributor, RPG Superstar aka Leandra Christine Schneider

    I am dying to see what you all come up with. I'm sure it will be awesome, and glory might await you ;)

    Dark Archive Contributor, RPG Superstar aka Leandra Christine Schneider

    Hi everyone,

    I hope you do not feel like I've left you in the dark. I just noticed Mr. Evan's post on accident a moment ago :)

    Right now, I'm in the hot phase of writing and I look forward to finish the manuscript soon. Most difficult of all is cramming everything into the word count, but the people of Paizo have been great in suggesting improvements and I feel like it is going to work out just right.

    As for Gen Con...uhh...there is an awful lot of things going on at my place now (and during the last months) and it feels like this time of chaos will never come to an end. So I didn't actually consider visiting...until now ;-)

    Dark Archive Contributor, RPG Superstar

    Hi everyone (and of course many thanks again :P ),

    I'm now definitely certain that the adventure will use the 3.5 rules. So save a few 10th level characters until January and break out all the nasty PrCs combos you can find, I'm trying to make sure that they'll be needed.

    Dark Archive Contributor, RPG Superstar aka Leandra Christine Schneider

    Lol...but a lovely article :P

    Dark Archive Contributor, RPG Superstar aka Leandra Christine Schneider

    Yes, thank you :-)
    (everyone!)

    I don't know how much *shhh, shhh* the project still is, but I've been contacted by Phoenix while the contest was in Round 3 or 4 and I'm sure it will be a very interesting assignment.

    I'm thinking about setting up a blog where I can...ummm...ramble...about how the work on Clash of the Kingslayers and other projects is going. It has been ages since I wrote a "diary" and I think that might be great fun.

    Dark Archive Contributor, RPG Superstar aka Leandra Christine Schneider

    Oh my, so many people...
    The scope of this is simply astounding, thank you again. I'll be in the dm tools chat at "high noon" your time today, so if you have any questions (and don't mind my hurried English) I'd be happy to meet you there.

    Dark Archive Contributor, RPG Superstar aka Leandra Christine Schneider

    Thank you very much!

    It has been a wonderful experience for me to participate in such a breathtaking event and I'm utterly flattered by your support.
    I'm sure I would not have been able to have the endurance to continue writing/rewriting without your comments and encouragement. During the entire competition I often wondered about the marvelous ideas and concepts everyone had and I feel honoured to be a part of this creative awesomeness!

    If someone asks me if I was "discovered" during this contest I will have to decline. I think the contest pretty much shaped me and my writing. I wouldn't have been able to increase the quality of my English without Mr. Mona's help and the examples my fellow competitors set. To tell the truth, Carnamach was probably the longest text I ever wrote if you discount school and boring science texts (of course I've been reading much, but thats not exactly the same ;-) ).

    I'm sure many fantastic designers (published and unpublished ones) are frequenting the paizo boards and I'll certainly look forward to buying their adventures/sourcebooks/or whole campaings(Mr. BOOMER) as soon as they are available.

    Thank you paizo, and all paizo people :-)

    PS: Tomorrow, after my family and friends stopped besieging my home (they are throwing a party behind my back :P ) I will be at the chatroom (I guess tomorrow at 12 your time). See you then!

    Dark Archive Contributor, RPG Superstar aka Leandra Christine Schneider

    thatboomerkid wrote:

    ...or even Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure.

    *blushes* I did that for a time :-)

    I am absolutely with you. One of D&d's (or RPGs in general) best features is its individuality and ability to adapt.

    Although everyone has his/her style, I'd also like to encourage trying something new sometimes.
    I remember my first session of paranoia and I although I was SURE I won't like it (because of working against the others), I got really surprised about how much fun it was.

    Dark Archive Contributor, RPG Superstar aka Leandra Christine Schneider

    Hmmm, I'm sorry about that and I can only speak from the experience of my gaming environment.
    We usually enjoy levels 7-15 the most because all the nice PrCs abilities and feat combos start to work and you have the chance to battle more diverse monsters....not speaking of gaining more options through magic items and higher level spells/maneuvers.
    Thats not to say that I don't like lower or higher (or even epic) things, but I think we spent about 50% of the adventures we play in the 7-15th (exactly the levels you can get most use out of a PrC).

    Dark Archive Contributor, RPG Superstar aka Leandra Christine Schneider

    Kruelaid wrote:


    That was amazing. The funny thing is I am having trouble seeing the same person writing your LeandraChristine 'about' page. Did you find yourself an editor? Whatever, I'm still voting for you.

    I wrote my personal page like a message board post, no computerized spell-checking, no thesaurus.com attacks and certainly not with the fear of an erik mona critique looming in my mind :P

    That said, I may have to look over it again to not embarrass myself too much :S

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