paizo.com Recent Reviews of Pathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDFpaizo.com Recent Reviews of Pathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF2019-09-03T12:44:10Z2019-09-03T12:44:10ZPathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF: Worst Scenario Ive Ever Played (1 star)DanielBhttps://paizo.com/products/btpy8buc?Pathfinder-Society-Scenario-47-The-Darkest-Vengeance2019-09-03T12:36:50Z<p><b>Pathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF</b></p><p>I should of stayed home then playing this pile of steaming garbage</p><p><b>Pathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF</b></p><p>I should of stayed home then playing this pile of steaming garbage</p>DanielB2019-09-03T12:36:50ZPathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF: A Taste of the Darklands (3 stars)Cellionhttps://paizo.com/products/btpy8buc?Pathfinder-Society-Scenario-47-The-Darkest-Vengeance2016-07-28T18:24:42Z<p><b>Pathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF</b></p><p>I recently played this scenario in a home game (playing down to low tier at the recommendation of our DM). This made most of the combats quite easy, but didn't detract too much from the overall feel of the scenario.</p>
<p>To discuss the elephant in the room:
<br />
[Spoiler omitted]</p>
<p>The story felt quite solid, with a good amount of mystery packed into a short time. Sure it was more "told" than shown to the players, but the parts you got to interact with (the machine and the last couple of encounters) worked well to reinforce everything. </p>
<p>[Spoiler omitted]</p>
<p>So overall: Spotty but decent combats, great flavor, while the end soured me a little, I had a lot of fun with this one.</p><p><b>Pathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF</b></p><p>I recently played this scenario in a home game (playing down to low tier at the recommendation of our DM). This made most of the combats quite easy, but didn't detract too much from the overall feel of the scenario.</p>
<p>To discuss the elephant in the room:
<br />
[Spoiler omitted]</p>
<p>The story felt quite solid, with a good amount of mystery packed into a short time. Sure it was more "told" than shown to the players, but the parts you got to interact with (the machine and the last couple of encounters) worked well to reinforce everything. </p>
<p>[Spoiler omitted]</p>
<p>So overall: Spotty but decent combats, great flavor, while the end soured me a little, I had a lot of fun with this one.</p>Cellion2016-07-28T18:24:42ZPathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF: A lot of great ideas horribly executed (2 stars)Le Petite Morthttps://paizo.com/products/btpy8buc?Pathfinder-Society-Scenario-47-The-Darkest-Vengeance2016-07-26T02:19:56Z<p><b>Pathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF</b></p><p>Every part of this scenario would be really interesting and cool if it were executed well, but there's so much wonky and vague stuff going on that nothing really...works.</p>
<p>The entire scenario is pathetically easy, until the final encounter that is practically impossible (and very deadly) as written.</p><p><b>Pathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF</b></p><p>Every part of this scenario would be really interesting and cool if it were executed well, but there's so much wonky and vague stuff going on that nothing really...works.</p>
<p>The entire scenario is pathetically easy, until the final encounter that is practically impossible (and very deadly) as written.</p>Le Petite Mort2016-07-26T02:19:56ZPathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF: Not as terrible as I expected, but not without issues (3 stars)Ascalaphushttps://paizo.com/products/btpy8buc?Pathfinder-Society-Scenario-47-The-Darkest-Vengeance2016-07-14T13:46:57Z<p><b>Pathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF</b></p><p>If a scenario has "dark" in its name, I assume all sane people prepare to fight in bad light conditions. I personally don't believe that players should contort themselves to avoid making use of the scenario name, blurb or front cover image when preparing for the adventure. It's not their fault the editor spoiled it.</p>
<p>In this case, there are actually quite a few in-scenario hints that you will be struggling with light conditions, so being prepared is legitimate.</p>
<p>We played this with a 6-player party on high tier. It was unusually dangerous for a S1 scenario (which is, after all, built for 4 players with less options than now). Which I'm fine with; a bit of a challenge is good. I think including all the foreshadowing given, the high tier is doable (nowadays). Dangerous but by level 4-5 you should be ready for opponents who have a real plan for fighting back.</p>
<p>On low tier, I think it's quite busted. The boss is way over the top.</p>
<p>All in all I'm not a fan of "darkness gimmick" scenarios. This isn't the first and definitely not the last. The problems with darkness as a gimmick are;
<br />
[Spoiler omitted]</p>
<p>We went into this with a well-prepared group and despite a few dicey moments made it through in one piece. We did have a good time. It's not a terrible scenario, but not great. And should only be played with a proper high tier table.</p><p><b>Pathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF</b></p><p>If a scenario has "dark" in its name, I assume all sane people prepare to fight in bad light conditions. I personally don't believe that players should contort themselves to avoid making use of the scenario name, blurb or front cover image when preparing for the adventure. It's not their fault the editor spoiled it.</p>
<p>In this case, there are actually quite a few in-scenario hints that you will be struggling with light conditions, so being prepared is legitimate.</p>
<p>We played this with a 6-player party on high tier. It was unusually dangerous for a S1 scenario (which is, after all, built for 4 players with less options than now). Which I'm fine with; a bit of a challenge is good. I think including all the foreshadowing given, the high tier is doable (nowadays). Dangerous but by level 4-5 you should be ready for opponents who have a real plan for fighting back.</p>
<p>On low tier, I think it's quite busted. The boss is way over the top.</p>
<p>All in all I'm not a fan of "darkness gimmick" scenarios. This isn't the first and definitely not the last. The problems with darkness as a gimmick are;
<br />
[Spoiler omitted]</p>
<p>We went into this with a well-prepared group and despite a few dicey moments made it through in one piece. We did have a good time. It's not a terrible scenario, but not great. And should only be played with a proper high tier table.</p>Ascalaphus2016-07-14T13:46:57ZPathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF (1 star)Slothsyhttps://paizo.com/products/btpy8buc?Pathfinder-Society-Scenario-47-The-Darkest-Vengeance2016-04-19T16:08:29Z...Slothsy2016-04-19T16:08:29ZPathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF: Uh, yeah this IS deadly even if you follow rules and play fair. (3 stars)outshynhttps://paizo.com/products/btpy8buc?Pathfinder-Society-Scenario-47-The-Darkest-Vengeance2015-08-05T10:44:28Z<p><b>Pathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF</b></p><p>This module has some extremes — a cakewalk encounter followed by some extremely deadly encounters. The review before mine had this text: "it is extremely challenging if that encounter is ran incorrectly or is strictly interpreted against the players." And that prompted me to write this review simply to rebut that. The answer to that statement is NO. As in, no, the module is not difficult because GMs run it "incorrectly" or are mean. The encounter is deadly <i>because following the rules makes it deadly.</i></p>
<p>Being a good GM who follows the mandate of Pathfinder Society management — "run modules as-is" — makes that encounter deadly.</p>
<p>[Spoiler omitted]</p>
<p>In a home game, all bets are off. I could tweak this in 5 seconds to be level-appropriate, and the problems with the module would be overcome. It would even be fun.</p>
<p><b>EDIT:</b> I also have a note for GMs, regarding darkness & fog clouds:</p>
<p>[Spoiler omitted]</p><p><b>Pathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF</b></p><p>This module has some extremes — a cakewalk encounter followed by some extremely deadly encounters. The review before mine had this text: "it is extremely challenging if that encounter is ran incorrectly or is strictly interpreted against the players." And that prompted me to write this review simply to rebut that. The answer to that statement is NO. As in, no, the module is not difficult because GMs run it "incorrectly" or are mean. The encounter is deadly <i>because following the rules makes it deadly.</i></p>
<p>Being a good GM who follows the mandate of Pathfinder Society management — "run modules as-is" — makes that encounter deadly.</p>
<p>[Spoiler omitted]</p>
<p>In a home game, all bets are off. I could tweak this in 5 seconds to be level-appropriate, and the problems with the module would be overcome. It would even be fun.</p>
<p><b>EDIT:</b> I also have a note for GMs, regarding darkness & fog clouds:</p>
<p>[Spoiler omitted]</p>outshyn2015-08-05T10:44:28ZPathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF: Good scenario, if you're willing to work with darkness rules (4 stars)Netopalishttps://paizo.com/products/btpy8buc?Pathfinder-Society-Scenario-47-The-Darkest-Vengeance2014-08-29T17:46:28Z<p><b>Pathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF</b></p><p>I enjoyed running this one. There's a great social scene at the start. Most of the bad reviews come from the way that the final encounter uses darkness rules. Certainly, it is extremely challenging if that encounter is ran incorrectly or is strictly interpreted against the players. I'd recommend that GMs run the machine the way that it was obviously intended rather than the way that it technically works given the interactions of the spells involved.</p><p><b>Pathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF</b></p><p>I enjoyed running this one. There's a great social scene at the start. Most of the bad reviews come from the way that the final encounter uses darkness rules. Certainly, it is extremely challenging if that encounter is ran incorrectly or is strictly interpreted against the players. I'd recommend that GMs run the machine the way that it was obviously intended rather than the way that it technically works given the interactions of the spells involved.</p>Netopalis2014-08-29T17:46:28ZPathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF: completely Riddiculous for low teir (1 star)Archangelexhttps://paizo.com/products/btpy8buc?Pathfinder-Society-Scenario-47-The-Darkest-Vengeance2014-02-02T07:56:55Z<p><b>Pathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF</b></p><p>I played this scenario today in a group of level 1-2 (5pcs) 1 survivor and only because he ran away. The mechanics in this are virtually impossible for level 1-3 players to successfully overcome and complete the scenario . I am all for a challenging scenario, but not one that give you the options of die....and fail the scenario or Runaway and not complete all conditions. Even running away doesn't guarantee survival either. DO NOT recommend for any players under 4 even then I would dread playing it</p><p><b>Pathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF</b></p><p>I played this scenario today in a group of level 1-2 (5pcs) 1 survivor and only because he ran away. The mechanics in this are virtually impossible for level 1-3 players to successfully overcome and complete the scenario . I am all for a challenging scenario, but not one that give you the options of die....and fail the scenario or Runaway and not complete all conditions. Even running away doesn't guarantee survival either. DO NOT recommend for any players under 4 even then I would dread playing it</p>Archangelex2014-02-02T07:56:55ZPathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF: Overly Deadly (1 star)David_Brosshttps://paizo.com/products/btpy8buc?Pathfinder-Society-Scenario-47-The-Darkest-Vengeance2013-09-30T07:08:20Z<p><b>Pathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF</b></p><p>This scenario contains mechanics which a level one party, particularly of 4 PCs, is unreasonable to expect them to deal with in the 1-2 subtier. I will not run this scenario at tier 1-2, although I suspect that 4-5 will probably be better, simply because PCs have a lot more options to deal mechanics then. I love challenging encounters, and well designed fights that allow characters to use creative things to shine, but the 1-2 subtier is not the place to plunge PCs into the deep end and wish them the best.</p><p><b>Pathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF</b></p><p>This scenario contains mechanics which a level one party, particularly of 4 PCs, is unreasonable to expect them to deal with in the 1-2 subtier. I will not run this scenario at tier 1-2, although I suspect that 4-5 will probably be better, simply because PCs have a lot more options to deal mechanics then. I love challenging encounters, and well designed fights that allow characters to use creative things to shine, but the 1-2 subtier is not the place to plunge PCs into the deep end and wish them the best.</p>David_Bross2013-09-30T07:08:20ZPathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF (5 stars)Jenny Jarzabskihttps://paizo.com/products/btpy8buc?Pathfinder-Society-Scenario-47-The-Darkest-Vengeance2013-03-09T01:40:07Z<p>This was a fun scenario to play. I love all things Ustalav so setting was a plus. There was a good amount of investigation to do and of course combat with a few snippets of roleplay to break things up. I really enjoyed the final combat/puzzle, although it was very difficult. I wouldn't be surprised if TPKs have happened in that room...</p><p>This was a fun scenario to play. I love all things Ustalav so setting was a plus. There was a good amount of investigation to do and of course combat with a few snippets of roleplay to break things up. I really enjoyed the final combat/puzzle, although it was very difficult. I wouldn't be surprised if TPKs have happened in that room...</p>Jenny Jarzabski2013-03-09T01:40:07ZPathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF: Good times in the dark (4 stars)Kintrikhttps://paizo.com/products/btpy8buc?Pathfinder-Society-Scenario-47-The-Darkest-Vengeance2013-02-20T04:42:42Z<p><b>Pathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF</b></p><p>I had fun time playing this, mix of investigation, combat, and puzzle solving. On the hard side to complete, but it can be done.</p><p><b>Pathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF</b></p><p>I had fun time playing this, mix of investigation, combat, and puzzle solving. On the hard side to complete, but it can be done.</p>Kintrik2013-02-20T04:42:42ZPathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF: Complicated puzzles, simple encounters! (2 stars)Fatespinnerhttps://paizo.com/products/btpy8buc?Pathfinder-Society-Scenario-47-The-Darkest-Vengeance2012-05-27T10:43:31Z<p><b>Pathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF</b></p><p>Perhaps I missed something, but I've gone over this one a few times and I just cannot understand how you are supposed to run the puzzle encounter towards the end. As others have said, predrawn maps will help tremendously (I ran mine on a virtual tabletop with the images directly pulled from the PDF) but other than the puzzle encounter, this one goes pretty quickly.</p>
<p>The first encounter is laughably easy, but it is kind of supposed to be so that's no problem. The second encounter was infuriating for my players because of the creature's tactics and abilities, but it's ability to actually harm them was almost nil. Mostly it was just chasing this thing around and failing to hit it while being subjected to sleeps and charms and other enchantments.</p>
<p>The final encounter could have theoretically been interesting, but with a Master Summoner on the table, it was over in the blink of an eye. Overall, I would not recommend this one.</p><p><b>Pathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF</b></p><p>Perhaps I missed something, but I've gone over this one a few times and I just cannot understand how you are supposed to run the puzzle encounter towards the end. As others have said, predrawn maps will help tremendously (I ran mine on a virtual tabletop with the images directly pulled from the PDF) but other than the puzzle encounter, this one goes pretty quickly.</p>
<p>The first encounter is laughably easy, but it is kind of supposed to be so that's no problem. The second encounter was infuriating for my players because of the creature's tactics and abilities, but it's ability to actually harm them was almost nil. Mostly it was just chasing this thing around and failing to hit it while being subjected to sleeps and charms and other enchantments.</p>
<p>The final encounter could have theoretically been interesting, but with a Master Summoner on the table, it was over in the blink of an eye. Overall, I would not recommend this one.</p>Fatespinner2012-05-27T10:43:31ZPathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF: For experienced players only! (5 stars)shadowcathttps://paizo.com/products/btpy8buc?Pathfinder-Society-Scenario-47-The-Darkest-Vengeance2012-02-25T00:29:41Z<p><b>Pathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF</b></p><p>This scenario offers excellent RP opportunities, rewards well-rounded characters played by smart and resourceful players and offers a really serious challenge.
<br />
Also, GM must be well prepared and predrawn maps significantly speed things up.</p><p><b>Pathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF</b></p><p>This scenario offers excellent RP opportunities, rewards well-rounded characters played by smart and resourceful players and offers a really serious challenge.
<br />
Also, GM must be well prepared and predrawn maps significantly speed things up.</p>shadowcat2012-02-25T00:29:41ZPathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF: Unnecessarily deadly (1 star)Avatar-1https://paizo.com/products/btpy8buc?Pathfinder-Society-Scenario-47-The-Darkest-Vengeance2012-01-14T15:44:45Z<p><b>Pathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF</b></p><p>I played through this scenario with level 1 characters. There's an encounter in the scenario which appears to be borderline impossible to beat after you learn the full circumstances of the encounter via metagaming. You can't design a tier 1-2 with that kind of encounter in the game. </p>
<p>Aside from that, it seemed like a pretty straightforward scenario, which only added to the deadly surprise later on.</p>
<p>I didn't have a closer look at higher tiers, but at higher levels, characters probably would have been better suited to handle it.</p><p><b>Pathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF</b></p><p>I played through this scenario with level 1 characters. There's an encounter in the scenario which appears to be borderline impossible to beat after you learn the full circumstances of the encounter via metagaming. You can't design a tier 1-2 with that kind of encounter in the game. </p>
<p>Aside from that, it seemed like a pretty straightforward scenario, which only added to the deadly surprise later on.</p>
<p>I didn't have a closer look at higher tiers, but at higher levels, characters probably would have been better suited to handle it.</p>Avatar-12012-01-14T15:44:45ZPathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF: Karma is a b____ (5 stars)Jason Shttps://paizo.com/products/btpy8buc?Pathfinder-Society-Scenario-47-The-Darkest-Vengeance2011-07-31T05:22:28Z<p><b>Pathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF</b></p><p>If you're one of those GMs that like to run the scenario "as is", this is not the scenario for you. Unmodified, this is a 2 star killer scenario that should be avoided. Even victorious, your players will likely be annoyed and won't have fun.</p>
<p>As others have already stated, this is a killer scenario (especially with the optional encounter). Ideally you should have 6 PCs and the group should be APL 3 at subtier 1-2 and APL of 6 at subtier 4-5 (to avoid a TPK).</p>
<p>Having said that, with some modifications, this scenario is great. One of the best aspects of this scenario is that it oozes dark gothic horror, that was fun to GM. Even the intro was fun.</p>
<p>Length: Long. I thought it was going to take 5 hours and it took almost 6 hours. To fit into 5 hours, much handwaving has to be done (and the optional encounter skipped).
<br />
Sweet Spot: Both subtiers are equally good.
<br />
Experience: GM subtier 1-2.
<br />
Entertainment: Overall DV is fun, although the optional and final encounter can be frustrating.(9/10)
<br />
Roleplay: This scenario has some fun roleplay at the start and some interesting interactions later (depends on GM). (10/10)
<br />
Combat/Challenges: Too deadly at times. The puzzle the PCs are meant to solve is unlikely to be solved without modifications. (4/10)
<br />
Uniqueness: It's memorable, hopefully not for the wrong reasons. (9/10)
<br />
Faction Missions: Average Mcguffin and they don't really add anything the scenario. Then again, you probably wouldn't have time for anything more involved. (7/10)
<br />
Overall: With changes to the final encounter and puzzle, this is a great and memorable scenario. Unmodified it's a mess and frustrating at best. (9/10)</p>
<p>I highly recommend reading the GM thread on this scenario and I'll post my thoughts there.</p>
<p>The GM should modify the puzzle in the scenario. As written, most groups won't even get the clues needed to solve the puzzle. Even with the clues, my group of players almost didn't figure it out (it took 20+ minutes).</p>
<p>Edit: Bumping to 5 stars since this is exactly the kind of scenario I like, with the exception of the problems with the final encounter and puzzle.</p>
<p>The reason I bought this scenario was because of the creepy dark horror theme, and I wasn't disappointed. So if your players like dark horror themes and you're willing to heavily modify the main puzzle and the final encounters, your players will have a good time.</p><p><b>Pathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF</b></p><p>If you're one of those GMs that like to run the scenario "as is", this is not the scenario for you. Unmodified, this is a 2 star killer scenario that should be avoided. Even victorious, your players will likely be annoyed and won't have fun.</p>
<p>As others have already stated, this is a killer scenario (especially with the optional encounter). Ideally you should have 6 PCs and the group should be APL 3 at subtier 1-2 and APL of 6 at subtier 4-5 (to avoid a TPK).</p>
<p>Having said that, with some modifications, this scenario is great. One of the best aspects of this scenario is that it oozes dark gothic horror, that was fun to GM. Even the intro was fun.</p>
<p>Length: Long. I thought it was going to take 5 hours and it took almost 6 hours. To fit into 5 hours, much handwaving has to be done (and the optional encounter skipped).
<br />
Sweet Spot: Both subtiers are equally good.
<br />
Experience: GM subtier 1-2.
<br />
Entertainment: Overall DV is fun, although the optional and final encounter can be frustrating.(9/10)
<br />
Roleplay: This scenario has some fun roleplay at the start and some interesting interactions later (depends on GM). (10/10)
<br />
Combat/Challenges: Too deadly at times. The puzzle the PCs are meant to solve is unlikely to be solved without modifications. (4/10)
<br />
Uniqueness: It's memorable, hopefully not for the wrong reasons. (9/10)
<br />
Faction Missions: Average Mcguffin and they don't really add anything the scenario. Then again, you probably wouldn't have time for anything more involved. (7/10)
<br />
Overall: With changes to the final encounter and puzzle, this is a great and memorable scenario. Unmodified it's a mess and frustrating at best. (9/10)</p>
<p>I highly recommend reading the GM thread on this scenario and I'll post my thoughts there.</p>
<p>The GM should modify the puzzle in the scenario. As written, most groups won't even get the clues needed to solve the puzzle. Even with the clues, my group of players almost didn't figure it out (it took 20+ minutes).</p>
<p>Edit: Bumping to 5 stars since this is exactly the kind of scenario I like, with the exception of the problems with the final encounter and puzzle.</p>
<p>The reason I bought this scenario was because of the creepy dark horror theme, and I wasn't disappointed. So if your players like dark horror themes and you're willing to heavily modify the main puzzle and the final encounters, your players will have a good time.</p>Jason S2011-07-31T05:22:28ZPathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF: Annoying modules aren't my favourites (2 stars)hogarthhttps://paizo.com/products/btpy8buc?Pathfinder-Society-Scenario-47-The-Darkest-Vengeance2011-07-18T13:42:59Z<p><b>Pathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF</b></p><p>I played this recently, and I have to agree with the other reviewers who were irritated by some of the combats. Having a combat under difficult conditions does not necessarily make it interesting; on the contrary, it often makes it a frustrating, tedious slog when several PCs can only make minimal contributions.</p>
<p>Similarly, I find challenges that require the use of a particular skill (which can't be used untrained) to be irritating as well, especially since I usually play in "pick-up" groups where we rarely have a balanced mix of classes.</p>
<p>On the positive side, I liked the initial story behind the mission, although the actual module was a very linear dungeon crawl.</p><p><b>Pathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF</b></p><p>I played this recently, and I have to agree with the other reviewers who were irritated by some of the combats. Having a combat under difficult conditions does not necessarily make it interesting; on the contrary, it often makes it a frustrating, tedious slog when several PCs can only make minimal contributions.</p>
<p>Similarly, I find challenges that require the use of a particular skill (which can't be used untrained) to be irritating as well, especially since I usually play in "pick-up" groups where we rarely have a balanced mix of classes.</p>
<p>On the positive side, I liked the initial story behind the mission, although the actual module was a very linear dungeon crawl.</p>hogarth2011-07-18T13:42:59ZPathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF: Problematic if players not preapred (3 stars)Tarrintinohttps://paizo.com/products/btpy8buc?Pathfinder-Society-Scenario-47-The-Darkest-Vengeance2011-05-26T01:36:45Z<p><b>Pathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF</b></p><p>I just played this module recently at a convention, and can honestly say that my experience playing this game was annoying beyond words. Not wanting to get into too many spoilers, there are some combats in this game that, if the players are not completely prepared for with the right mix of spells, skills, or special abilities, the combat can be incredibly deadly or take annoyingly too long.</p>
<p>Fortunately, for my table, we were of sufficient level and experience that the combat was not threatening our characters' survival, but it got so annoying at one point that one of the players literally threw up his hands and walked away from the table for 20 minutes before he came back saying he was ready to continue.</p>
<p>The only suggestion that I can give without crossing the "spoiler line" is that DM's and players need to READ THE TITLE OF THIS MODULE and take it to heart.</p>
<p>Beyond the two combat scenes that annoyed the players beyond words, the rest of the module was incredibly well written and provided some great RP encounters. Tim Hitchcock and Mark Moreland usually do amazing work with their modules, and this module is not a complete bust. However, I will say that it's not the best work they've ever done.</p><p><b>Pathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF</b></p><p>I just played this module recently at a convention, and can honestly say that my experience playing this game was annoying beyond words. Not wanting to get into too many spoilers, there are some combats in this game that, if the players are not completely prepared for with the right mix of spells, skills, or special abilities, the combat can be incredibly deadly or take annoyingly too long.</p>
<p>Fortunately, for my table, we were of sufficient level and experience that the combat was not threatening our characters' survival, but it got so annoying at one point that one of the players literally threw up his hands and walked away from the table for 20 minutes before he came back saying he was ready to continue.</p>
<p>The only suggestion that I can give without crossing the "spoiler line" is that DM's and players need to READ THE TITLE OF THIS MODULE and take it to heart.</p>
<p>Beyond the two combat scenes that annoyed the players beyond words, the rest of the module was incredibly well written and provided some great RP encounters. Tim Hitchcock and Mark Moreland usually do amazing work with their modules, and this module is not a complete bust. However, I will say that it's not the best work they've ever done.</p>Tarrintino2011-05-26T01:36:45ZPathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF: Wanted to rate it higher-I don't advise playing with 1st level players. (4 stars)Red-Assassinhttps://paizo.com/products/btpy8buc?Pathfinder-Society-Scenario-47-The-Darkest-Vengeance2011-04-19T05:13:37Z<p><b>Pathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF</b></p><p>I recently ran this. I absolutely loved the first encounter. I ran it with newer players, I like tough encounters, but I think it could be hard/deadly for most allot of groups, which isn't a bad thing.</p>
<p>I think it could be a bit tough on 1st level characters.</p><p><b>Pathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF</b></p><p>I recently ran this. I absolutely loved the first encounter. I ran it with newer players, I like tough encounters, but I think it could be hard/deadly for most allot of groups, which isn't a bad thing.</p>
<p>I think it could be a bit tough on 1st level characters.</p>Red-Assassin2011-04-19T05:13:37ZPathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF (2 stars)Neil Carrhttps://paizo.com/products/btpy8buc?Pathfinder-Society-Scenario-47-The-Darkest-Vengeance2011-03-31T15:35:34Z<p>After running and playing in this module I found that it was inappropriately deadly, particularly for first level characters. </p>
<p>One encounter was literally and thematically opaque to the degree that players could not reasonably find the solution to the problem, and PCs were being one-shotted. </p>
<p>In both games I participated in the only reason the players were able to survive was due to very large table size, giving enough targets for one or two players to be able to eventually have the time to solve the issue. If these had been a standard four person party they would have resulted in TPKs.</p>
<p>That just isn't right, especially for a low level module.</p>
<p>The other big problem, which seems common with most of the PFS modules, is that what is actually going on with the elaborate backstory is not in any way adequately conveyed to the players. They stumble from one encounter to the next, getting attacked by seemingly random things, and not really getting a clear idea of what is going on.</p>
<p>If this was a home game and had relaxed time requirements, it would be possible for a GM to orchestrate things so that the larger context could be drawn out, but in a living campaign environment, where you are trying to cram a whole session into four hours, all of this is lost.</p>
<p>Modules need to be tighter, more direct, and have appropriate challenges for the levels that you are playing at.</p><p>After running and playing in this module I found that it was inappropriately deadly, particularly for first level characters. </p>
<p>One encounter was literally and thematically opaque to the degree that players could not reasonably find the solution to the problem, and PCs were being one-shotted. </p>
<p>In both games I participated in the only reason the players were able to survive was due to very large table size, giving enough targets for one or two players to be able to eventually have the time to solve the issue. If these had been a standard four person party they would have resulted in TPKs.</p>
<p>That just isn't right, especially for a low level module.</p>
<p>The other big problem, which seems common with most of the PFS modules, is that what is actually going on with the elaborate backstory is not in any way adequately conveyed to the players. They stumble from one encounter to the next, getting attacked by seemingly random things, and not really getting a clear idea of what is going on.</p>
<p>If this was a home game and had relaxed time requirements, it would be possible for a GM to orchestrate things so that the larger context could be drawn out, but in a living campaign environment, where you are trying to cram a whole session into four hours, all of this is lost.</p>
<p>Modules need to be tighter, more direct, and have appropriate challenges for the levels that you are playing at.</p>Neil Carr2011-03-31T15:35:34ZPathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF: Tim Hitchock is truly the master of the deadly modules (2 stars)MisterSlankyhttps://paizo.com/products/btpy8buc?Pathfinder-Society-Scenario-47-The-Darkest-Vengeance2010-08-23T04:17:07Z<p><b>Pathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF</b></p><p>I played this adventure just today and it's on my "never again" list along with the horror that was Skeleton Moon (for interestingly the same reason). It doesn't get one star like Skeleton Moon did, simply because I loved the creative use of the main foil, but it only barely does so. There was only a very small amount of potential roleplay, at the very beginning, and the module quickly degenerated from there into one tough combat after another. The "device" was an interesting addition, and I liked thematically the climax, but again, it was all set amongst the guise of "too difficult."</p>
<p>Honestly I don't get the appeal of the module and found it horribly overrated. It was easily the slowest module I've played through so far, and for something set in Ulstav, I expected it to be A LOT more creepy, but when you find out right away it's a Darklands module, that excitement waned (talk about a bait and switch). I didn't like how the adventure doesn't play well without certain classes, and woe to the group that doesn't have a cleric for no reason other than it has the potential for horrible player deaths (at least at Tier 1-2 where we played). From Tim Hitchcock I expected so much more, which only added to that disappointment.</p>
<p>I will note: I don't mind a challenge, but the potential lethality of this module was inappropriate. I don't care what level you're playing at, creatures with base damage capable of insta-killing party members are neither fun, nor a "challenge" they're just outright cruel to players and do nothing but discourage the player it happens to. This is especially true in Pathfinder Society where a lot of times you're trying to encourage new players to join. 1st level PCs should not be meeting up with one, let alone three creatures that can one-shot party members via spells, special-abilities, or bonuses due to the encounter nor should they have to deal with a certain optional encounter that is all but impossible for a low-level party. In fact, I counted no less than four of these kinds of issues with this module.</p><p><b>Pathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF</b></p><p>I played this adventure just today and it's on my "never again" list along with the horror that was Skeleton Moon (for interestingly the same reason). It doesn't get one star like Skeleton Moon did, simply because I loved the creative use of the main foil, but it only barely does so. There was only a very small amount of potential roleplay, at the very beginning, and the module quickly degenerated from there into one tough combat after another. The "device" was an interesting addition, and I liked thematically the climax, but again, it was all set amongst the guise of "too difficult."</p>
<p>Honestly I don't get the appeal of the module and found it horribly overrated. It was easily the slowest module I've played through so far, and for something set in Ulstav, I expected it to be A LOT more creepy, but when you find out right away it's a Darklands module, that excitement waned (talk about a bait and switch). I didn't like how the adventure doesn't play well without certain classes, and woe to the group that doesn't have a cleric for no reason other than it has the potential for horrible player deaths (at least at Tier 1-2 where we played). From Tim Hitchcock I expected so much more, which only added to that disappointment.</p>
<p>I will note: I don't mind a challenge, but the potential lethality of this module was inappropriate. I don't care what level you're playing at, creatures with base damage capable of insta-killing party members are neither fun, nor a "challenge" they're just outright cruel to players and do nothing but discourage the player it happens to. This is especially true in Pathfinder Society where a lot of times you're trying to encourage new players to join. 1st level PCs should not be meeting up with one, let alone three creatures that can one-shot party members via spells, special-abilities, or bonuses due to the encounter nor should they have to deal with a certain optional encounter that is all but impossible for a low-level party. In fact, I counted no less than four of these kinds of issues with this module.</p>MisterSlanky2010-08-23T04:17:07ZPathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF: Don't look behind you... (4 stars)Doug Mileshttps://paizo.com/products/btpy8buc?Pathfinder-Society-Scenario-47-The-Darkest-Vengeance2010-07-14T01:34:56Z<p><b>Pathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF</b></p><p>I really like this scenario but it is difficult to run well. Give away too much and the climax is a cakewalk. Give away too little and it’s a bloodbath. As much as I complain about cakewalk encounters, I don’t enjoy it when the players feel as if they’re trapped in a no-win situation. I’ve only killed one PC in the 4 times I’ve run it so far. I guess that’s not awful. Deadliness aside, Tim and Mark did a masterful job delivering an engaging scenario. There’s some fun role-play in the beginning, followed by a mystery, some creepy discoveries and then a lot of player apprehension. I love seeing classic/obscure monsters used in so appropriate a setting. The scenario contains great campaign setting flavor. Practice a Slavic accent for the NPCs, and if that fails just go with your best “Borat”. Some of the faction missions are alright, none of them really stand out though. That’s a missed opportunity. The maps are all excellent though. A fun, frightening adventure.</p><p><b>Pathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF</b></p><p>I really like this scenario but it is difficult to run well. Give away too much and the climax is a cakewalk. Give away too little and it’s a bloodbath. As much as I complain about cakewalk encounters, I don’t enjoy it when the players feel as if they’re trapped in a no-win situation. I’ve only killed one PC in the 4 times I’ve run it so far. I guess that’s not awful. Deadliness aside, Tim and Mark did a masterful job delivering an engaging scenario. There’s some fun role-play in the beginning, followed by a mystery, some creepy discoveries and then a lot of player apprehension. I love seeing classic/obscure monsters used in so appropriate a setting. The scenario contains great campaign setting flavor. Practice a Slavic accent for the NPCs, and if that fails just go with your best “Borat”. Some of the faction missions are alright, none of them really stand out though. That’s a missed opportunity. The maps are all excellent though. A fun, frightening adventure.</p>Doug Miles2010-07-14T01:34:56ZPathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF: Fun but frustrating (4 stars)S. Wernerhttps://paizo.com/products/btpy8buc?Pathfinder-Society-Scenario-47-The-Darkest-Vengeance2010-06-28T14:59:55Z<p><b>Pathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF</b></p><p>I really wanted to give this scenario five stars. The writing is excellent and the setting is interesting. The fights were creative and there were several points where you have to do a bit of thinking. We had a great group of people playing. However, there seems to be one glaring flaw to this adventure. We went in without two very critical classes.</p>
<p>Toward the end of the adventure there are several key skill checks (trained only) that we had no training in. It's certainly not an impossibility that classes other than the two I mentioned would take the skills needed, but they tend to be thought of as key to those classes. We managed to make it to the last encounter regardless, but by this point both we the players and the DM were starting to get frustrated. The circumstances surrounding the last fight pushed us over the edge.</p>
<p>I don't want to give away what happens during the last fight but it takes place in an interesting environment. We and the final protagonist were at something of a stalemate. The group spent a good thirty minutes trying to figure out how to overcome our "disadvantage" in the last encounter. The GM even discussed our options with his fellow GM's at the con and told us we had only one option for success due to his interpretation of the rules, the way the scenario was written, and the abilities and items available to us. After putting our heads together we finally puzzled it out that we had to leave and go back to town to buy the one item that would give us the ability to overcome our foes advantage. We also had to bring in a hireling from the local town to solve the final puzzle (due to a lack of skill on our part). We won in the end but it was a frustrating finale to an otherwise fun adventure.</p>
<p>If you have the right party makeup this will be a fun, albeit challenging, adventure. If not, it's quite possible you will either die a terrible death in the final encounter or not be able to complete the scenario (unless your GM is willing to bend the rules for you).</p><p><b>Pathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF</b></p><p>I really wanted to give this scenario five stars. The writing is excellent and the setting is interesting. The fights were creative and there were several points where you have to do a bit of thinking. We had a great group of people playing. However, there seems to be one glaring flaw to this adventure. We went in without two very critical classes.</p>
<p>Toward the end of the adventure there are several key skill checks (trained only) that we had no training in. It's certainly not an impossibility that classes other than the two I mentioned would take the skills needed, but they tend to be thought of as key to those classes. We managed to make it to the last encounter regardless, but by this point both we the players and the DM were starting to get frustrated. The circumstances surrounding the last fight pushed us over the edge.</p>
<p>I don't want to give away what happens during the last fight but it takes place in an interesting environment. We and the final protagonist were at something of a stalemate. The group spent a good thirty minutes trying to figure out how to overcome our "disadvantage" in the last encounter. The GM even discussed our options with his fellow GM's at the con and told us we had only one option for success due to his interpretation of the rules, the way the scenario was written, and the abilities and items available to us. After putting our heads together we finally puzzled it out that we had to leave and go back to town to buy the one item that would give us the ability to overcome our foes advantage. We also had to bring in a hireling from the local town to solve the final puzzle (due to a lack of skill on our part). We won in the end but it was a frustrating finale to an otherwise fun adventure.</p>
<p>If you have the right party makeup this will be a fun, albeit challenging, adventure. If not, it's quite possible you will either die a terrible death in the final encounter or not be able to complete the scenario (unless your GM is willing to bend the rules for you).</p>S. Werner2010-06-28T14:59:55ZPathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF: A lot of fun....and deadly (5 stars)Panda40https://paizo.com/products/btpy8buc?Pathfinder-Society-Scenario-47-The-Darkest-Vengeance2010-05-15T03:35:31Z<p><b>Pathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF</b></p><p>Got to play this recently, with Mark Moreland himself running. A lot of fun and impressive how Tim and Mark made a monster I thought of as lame intresting and deadly. There's a very creepy encounter and the last combat is deadly - there was a death the last time Mark ran it and I droped to - 3. (I only survived because as a half-orc I had the Orc Ferocity to keep me going and as an Inquisitor with a wand of <i> Cure Light Wounds </i> I ran from the combat and spent a few rounds healing myself before jumping back in.) I would advise not being an arrogant player with nothing to fear in this one...tough at times but fair.</p>
<p>Looking forward to the sequel....</p><p><b>Pathfinder Society Scenario #47: The Darkest Vengeance (PFRPG) PDF</b></p><p>Got to play this recently, with Mark Moreland himself running. A lot of fun and impressive how Tim and Mark made a monster I thought of as lame intresting and deadly. There's a very creepy encounter and the last combat is deadly - there was a death the last time Mark ran it and I droped to - 3. (I only survived because as a half-orc I had the Orc Ferocity to keep me going and as an Inquisitor with a wand of <i> Cure Light Wounds </i> I ran from the combat and spent a few rounds healing myself before jumping back in.) I would advise not being an arrogant player with nothing to fear in this one...tough at times but fair.</p>
<p>Looking forward to the sequel....</p>Panda402010-05-15T03:35:31Z