Pathfinder adventure path most appropriate for younger kids.

[James Thomsen 568]

I am about to start a campaign for my sons (age 9 & 12) and several of their friends of the same age. What I was wondering, is which, if any, of the published adventure paths are, or could be, appropriate for this age range with little or no changes to the basic plot. I am looking for an adventure path where the basic focus is not truly adult in nature. I.E., no sexual violence, incest, PC's having to assassinate some local official(s) to forward the story line, etc. In other words, a pretty black and white story line, where the players are the good guys, and the villains really are evil, not just misguided. More of a Lord of the Rings rather than Black Company.

Thanks in advance.

[Chris Kenney]

Kingmaker is probably the only one that really satisfies your basic requirements out of the box. While there are neutral opponents in the plot, the majority of them are either creatures, working for the evil villains for pay, or otherwise "okay" to fight for a good party. The open nature makes it easy to write around the few objectionable elements by simply dropping encounters entirely, and in the one case where dropping it is impractical a rewrite to use some other largely arbitrary creature has no bearing on the plot itself.

That said, Kingmaker has other issues for the younger crowd. It's complex in the rules sense, with a number of new sub-systems which aren't wholly optional. Perhaps worse, the central plot thread is not strong - the PCs need to be self-starters and able to set and stay focused on tasks to get through. Lastly, related to both points, it's something of a record-keeping challenge even removing as much of the Kingdom system as you can while still letting the AP work. For new players who will probably still be struggling to remember how their own characters work, it might be too much.

Carrion Crown might be adaptable, with its focus on classic "movie monsters" the kids are probably already familiar with. There are two potential problem points.

Spoilers for Carrion Crown:

The second adventure has a Frankenstein vibe, where the "monster" is actually a decent sort. However, that's fitting with the Frankenstein story most people are familiar with, even if it plays against the usual instincts of gamers. And there are plenty of real bad guys in the module to fight.

Harder is the fourth adventure, a romp through the Cthluhu Mythos. With cultist townsfolk and weird happenings, the horror is probably a bit too strong. If you're willing to come up with something original to fill in here, I might suggest some sort of zombie apocalypse as it's the only classic horror not really explored in the AP as writen.

Serpent's Skull has too much of a focus on selfish actions and requires an alliance with a morally questionable group (When the designated "good guys" are the Pathfinder Society, that's a warning signal that ethical flexibility may be required.) It also has the "self-starter" issues of Kingmaker, magnified by not having a definite direction to work in and poor organization of the third and fourth books. Not recommended.

Jade Regent seems like another option, but YMMV since it's only finished through part 2 and things may change in any book. Check out the Player's Guide to see if this one seems all right to you, although the Romance angle should probably be dropped for the ages you're discussing - they won't be interested anyway.

I haven't read through earlier APs, but I know ones to avoid include Rise of the Runelords and Second Darkness.

[Vigil]

I'd go with Legacy of Fire. It's the only AP to date that feels like it could actually begin with "Once Upon A Time..."

It's like a Harryhausen Sinbad movie from start to finish, with very clear villains and good-aligned supporting cast. While there is violence (I mean, this IS a game about killing things and taking their stuff), there isn't any incest or gratuitous sex or gore.

It is 3.5, but that really isn't that big of a deal.

[Azure_Zero]

Another option, Ok with some minor editing. Not an AP though is the Darkmoon vale modules.
Hollows last hope(this is free), Crown of the kobold king (rescue children), return of the Kobold king (this is free), Carnival of tears(skip this one), hungry are the dead.
these are 3.5.

the next set of mudules is crypt of everflame, mask of the living god, and the golden city. But have not read the latter two so I don't know if they are Ok for kids.

[JoelF847]

Vigil wrote:

I'd go with Legacy of Fire. It's the only AP to date that feels like it could actually begin with "Once Upon A Time..."

It's like a Harryhausen Sinbad movie from start to finish, with very clear villains and good-aligned supporting cast. While there is violence (I mean, this IS a game about killing things and taking their stuff), there isn't any incest or gratuitous sex or gore.

It is 3.5, but that really isn't that big of a deal.

I was going to receommend this one also, for the same reasons.

[Demiurge 1138]

Yeah, Legacy of Fire would be my number one recommendation for easily kid-friendly.

[gigglestick]

Azure_Zero wrote:

Another option, Ok with some minor editing. Not an AP though is the Darkmoon vale modules.

Hollows last hope(this is free), Crown of the kobold king (rescue children), return of the Kobold king (this is free), Carnival of tears(skip this one), hungry are the dead.
these are 3.5.

the next set of mudules is crypt of everflame, mask of the living god, and the golden city. But have not read the latter two so I don't know if they are Ok for kids.

I'd be careful with the Darkmoon Vale series. As awesome as it is, there are some pretty nasty things...from a town Boss who regularly "assaults" women to prove his point to a subploy involving the brothel to possible children deaths and other nastiness. And that's just in Kobold King....add in Carnival and the story gets gory and sadistic.

Now, I personally like the whole plot and the nastiness of the bad guys...but it may be a bit much for younger players.

[Azure_Zero]

gigglestick wrote:

I'd be careful with the Darkmoon Vale series. As awesome as it is, there are some pretty nasty things...from a town Boss who regularly "assaults" women to prove his point to a subploy involving the brothel to possible children deaths and other nastiness. And that's just in Kobold King....add in Carnival and the story gets gory and sadistic.

Now, I personally like the whole plot and the nastiness of the bad guys...but it may be a bit much for younger players.

That is why I NOTED it would require some editing and put a (skip this) next to Carnival of Tears as I know that one is gory and not the best idea for kids.

[dartnet]

Legacy of Fire would be my vote for the reasons above. Have you thought about maybe doing a home brew? That way you can be sure that it stays kid friendly.

[Githzilla]

Another vote for Legacy of Fire. Pugwampis are an amusing monster and might work well early on for younger gamers.

[Gorbacz]

The biggest problem with Darkmoon Vale series for kids is not about Kreeg's rapist wedding crashes or kid brothels, both can be sanitized easily. The biggest issue is that the "home base", Falcon's Hollow, is a depressing, rotting hole ruled over by a despicable financial venture which uses violence and intimidation as everyday business practice, with no martial nor spiritual leadership to speak of and with the bitter irony of being located squarely within the most forward-thinking, freedom-loving, democratic country in the setting.

Conversely, these are the reasons why it's a great starting point for mature players, because it subverses the "sunny starting village" trope so masterfully that I want to run to England and slap around Nick Logue on his face with a dead trout for giving up on the RPGs altogether.

Kids will likely expect their base of operations to be something more like Sandpoint, with a honest mayor, tough sherrif, jovial priest and a friendly tavern owner.

In my humble, LoF is a good choice (few bits need to be declawed, but overall it's OK), perhaps Jade Regent too (but it's too early to tell).

[Kalraan]

Although not an AP, why not the three modules of:

Crypt of the Everflame
Masks of the Living God
City of Golden Death

Couple that with some linking adventures of your own design tailoring for the players or perhaps some of the Pathfinder Society mini adventures, and its a fairly solid game up to about 7th level.

I'd also recommend the Pathfinder Podcasts (www.pathfinder-podcast.com) relating to those adventures to give you a few ideas of which PFS mods to add and some other interesting tid-bits.

I personally think that the first adventure is perfect for beginner players.

Just a thought (I should point out I have never played or run these adventures - but they sound like they fit the bill).

[tburke0]

Kalraan wrote:

Although not an AP, why not the three modules of:

Crypt of the Everflame
Masks of the Living God
City of Golden Death

Couple that with some linking adventures of your own design tailoring for the players or perhaps some of the Pathfinder Society mini adventures, and its a fairly solid game up to about 7th level.

I'd also recommend the Pathfinder Podcasts (www.pathfinder-podcast.com) relating to those adventures to give you a few ideas of which PFS mods to add and some other interesting tid-bits.

I personally think that the first adventure is perfect for beginner players.

Just a thought (I should point out I have never played or run these adventures - but they sound like they fit the bill).

I'm running our Fathers & Sons group through this series now. They're just about to make landfall on the Isle of Terror to start CoGD.

The first adventure is a great setup for first time players. Having the flip mat made it easy to run. The second module is also fun and goes a long way in teaching that not every problem is solved by combat, and the jury is still out on the third but based on the story so far it looks like it will be great as well...

Our group runs in age from 8-48 and we have a great time with the game, when we can squeeze it in between work and school and sports and scouts...

So I do recommend this "Series of linked modules not an AP" for younger kids. Your mileage may vary. Objects in mirror are closer than they appear. Do not taunt Happy Fun Ball.

Tom

[Tacticslion]

Dotting. I've got a seven-week old boy, after all!
...
What? Too soon?

(Also, I've got some friends with range 9-12 year olds)

[Zaranorth]

I've been running a variant of Pathfinder I hacked together for my 7 year old son. My wife plays a character with him. It's been amazing. She rarely has to nudge him or tell him what to do. And the ideas he comes up with to solve problems, wow.

After a bit I might run an AP for him, especially if he gets some friends into it ... although I'm extremely cautious of that. With today's litigious society I'd rather all parents be there. Plus, at least in my extended family, there's still the ZOMG! Satanists! Reaction from some.

[James Thomsen 568]

I appreciate all the info. We are a family gaming group of 4 families, my 12 year old runs a home brew campaign for the kids. He want's an adult to run a campaign he can play in.

This is the type of info I was looking for, to save me time reading every adventure path to see if it would work. I will look into the suggestions. My home brew problems distill down into time, time, time.

;)

Thanks!!

[Tacticslion]

Zaranorth wrote:

After a bit I might run an AP for him, especially if he gets some friends into it ... although I'm extremely cautious of that. With today's litigious society I'd rather all parents be there. Plus, at least in my extended family, there's still the ZOMG! Satanists! Reaction from some.

Actually, I've had that reaction from some of my family, although I find that since I use the term "Pathfinder" much of the issue goes away, as it's only "Dungeons & Dragons" that was accused (and Pathfinder's even published by a different company!). But that's just what's worked for me.

[dartnet]

Tacticslion wrote:

Zaranorth wrote:

After a bit I might run an AP for him, especially if he gets some friends into it ... although I'm extremely cautious of that. With today's litigious society I'd rather all parents be there. Plus, at least in my extended family, there's still the ZOMG! Satanists! Reaction from some.

Actually, I've had that reaction from some of my family, although I find that since I use the term "Pathfinder" much of the issue goes away, as it's only "Dungeons & Dragons" that was accused (and Pathfinder's even published by a different company!). But that's just what's worked for me.

My folks were like that growing up. So I ended up playing Call of Cthulhu, and Palladium while in High School and they were fine with that. :)

[Tacticslion]

dartnet wrote:

My folks were like that growing up. So I ended up playing Call of Cthulhu, and Palladium while in High School and they were fine with that. :)

Oh, man! Call of Cthulu? Wow. That's... kind of hilarious, all things considered.

Anyway, yeah, and, honestly, the reaction makes sense. Granted, it's based on lies and slander (or libel... actually both) and a terrible Tom Hanks movie which is based on a terrible book (Mazes and Monsters) which is very loosely based on a terribly incorrect series of misreported news stories and investigatory lies in order to find a kid who'd run away after breaking contact with his local gaming buddies due to mental illness. But, despite that history (which wasn't widely known at the time), the reaction, when you're told about a game that teaches magic, talks about how its designers looked at old magical things for inspiration, and actually does involve (by sheer technicality and mostly only for villains, granted) the ability to summon demons (and devils!), and heroes who wield the exact same spells-casting power, you've got parents who'd be understandably upset based off appearances.

That said, I've found that IF I find someone willing to listen in the first place, AND I explain the actual history (and do some online research to show it), THEN (How's that for mathmatical proofs! In your face Prof! ... sorry) they usually mellow pretty rapidly. The hardest part is the first - finding someone that's willing to listen.

So, mostly I just ignore it, call things Pathfinder, and life is pretty good.

[Zaranorth]

James Thomsen 568 wrote:

I appreciate all the info. We are a family gaming group of 4 families, my 12 year old runs a home brew campaign for the kids. He want's an adult to run a campaign he can play in.

Wow, I'm hoping my son will be up to that when he's 12.

Tacticslion wrote:

Anyway, yeah, and, honestly, the reaction makes sense. Granted, it's based on lies and slander (or libel... actually both) and a terrible Tom Hanks movie which is based on a terrible book (Mazes and Monsters) which is very loosely based on a terribly incorrect series of misreported news stories and investigatory lies in order to find a kid who'd run away after breaking contact with his local gaming buddies due to mental illness. But, despite that history (which wasn't widely known at the time), the reaction, when you're told about a game that teaches magic, talks about how its designers looked at old magical things for inspiration, and actually does involve (by sheer technicality and mostly only for villains, granted) the ability to summon demons (and devils!), and heroes who wield the exact same spells-casting power, you've got parents who'd be understandably upset based off appearances.

[snip]

So, mostly I just ignore it, call things Pathfinder, and life is pretty good.

You forgot to mention the Chick Track and BADD, otherwise that's the best condensing of the story I've seen. :)

Playing "Pathfinder" has helped, although there's one or two that are aware of the broader genera and lump all Role Playing Games into that category. When they came to visit and I had to give a tour of the house, I was waiting for the reaction to the 7' bookcase in my office that's groaning under the load of books. I was halfway disappointed when they didn't seem to notice it.

[Tacticslion]

Zaranorth wrote:

You forgot to mention the Chick Track and BADD, otherwise that's the best condensing of the story I've seen. :)

True, but those I just kind of presumed were the results of the mass media stuff.

Zaranorth wrote:

Playing "Pathfinder" has helped, although there's one or two that are aware of the broader genera and lump all Role Playing Games into that category. When they came to visit and I had to give a tour of the house, I was waiting for the reaction to the 7' bookcase in my office that's groaning under the load of books. I was halfway disappointed when they didn't seem to notice it.

You know, my family lumped it all together too, until I discovered Chrono Trigger. Then, after looking at it for a while, they were cool with the whole "RPG" business (within reason, of course), because it obviously had nothing to do with demons and stuff*. Final Fantasy became pretty standard fair at my house after that.

*Yeeeeeeeeeeeaaaaaaaaaaaaah. No, I've never gone into detail about translation alterations for a localize American audience. Its better that way. One of the few times I allow for ignorance = bliss.

[DaddyDM]

I know this thread is ancient but maybe some other folks have opinions they would like to share, or maybe some new APs have come out since.

I'm in a similar situation, starting a campaign w/my kids (9 and 10) and some friends and their kids, similar age ranges.

I can and have sanitized modules before but would prefer not to have to rework whole plot storylines.

So far I see Legacy of Fire recommended, any others? If you see problem areas in other APs, please mark w/spoilers and list them (helps to see if it's something I can work around or not).

Basically I'm looking for some fun sword and sorcery adventure.

Thanks for your help.

[Joshua Goudreau]

I would have recommended Wrath of the Righteous with it's stark morality of good vs evil and there aren't really any parts that are subversive... but then I read Midnight Isles.

From everything that I know about the APs to date Legacy of Fire is probably still your best bet. However, this all depends on the children. Quite often adults tend to think that kids will be upset or emotionally scarred by things that they end up quite enjoying. Paizo, for the most part, keeps their APs pretty PG-13.

Keeping that in mind, Skull & Shackles was fun to play and didn't throw out anything that Pirates of the Caribbean didn't offer. The morality may be a bit more hazy grey but kids get that. They can play at being pirates and root for Jack Sparrow without then immediately going and robbing a liquor store.

For a classic feel Shattered Star might not be a bad option. From what I am aware, there really isn't much that wouldn't work for kids.

Reign of Winter might be a little too gonzo for kids, or perhaps just gonzo enough. It's steeped very heavily in Eastern European myth, which is cool, but may be lost on kids and then it kind of turns into a romp of random adventures.

[captain yesterday]

Kingmaker is hands down the least in need of child editing

[Rylar]

I'd vote for Wrath of the Righteous. It's pretty set up to be played strait good vs evil. The mythic rules give it a bit more paperwork, but I think they can handle it.

Kingmaker on the other hand is a lot more paperwork. Then again, if you son normally DM's this group he probably has the mindset preventing the extra rules from being too overbearing for him.

I'd stay away from Skull and shackles unless you want to make a lot of changes (in the first book at least). There is a lot of sexual innuendo, overbearing rules (esp the drinking/addiction rules), and very grey sense of right and wrong.

[Krathanos]

Another vote for Legacy of Fire, though Shattered Star might also work (possibly needs some tinkering with the Shard of Lust section).