Thanks for soliciting player feedback. My experience points towards a unique mash-up of existing classes with inventive archtypes. Our gaming group enjoyed the Celestial Summoner archtype that tossed out a main class feature while adding some difficult options for the character, too.
I have never seen anything about an Optimization Guide to NPCs. Yes, a level 2 adept is a challenge, but perhaps rather unique option from Fireballs, Magic Missiles, etc. Are there any viable *NPC FEATS*? These could compose a nice pre-generated NPCs, with more bang-for-buck by adding a few new NPC class specific. I remember having a liberal GM allow my Expert NPC access to old AD&D2.0 Ranger 'tricks' to teach an animal/pet.
If this feedback helps, I'd happily take the Class Act: Barbarian...when do Monks get some lovin'?
Yes, it looks like it could play well in the hands of a narrative group. Was sad to see they haven't developed their Magic system yet (it' only been a year or so...so maybe 6d6 is playtesting/hobbyist interest).
Hello, fellow gamers and hobby enthusiasts! I need your help selecting an appropriate gaming system for my gaming group. I want to give you small bits of information to help make a more informed decision.
• My gaming group is small: 5-6 adults willing & able to attend with dice, paper, snacks, etc.
• All players are adults with significant responsibilities (three people attending college, including doctoral research/dissertation) and with commensurate imagination.
• Timetables suggest gaming at least once a month, usually for a large chunk of time (6-8 hours).
• Experience includes Pathfinder, D&D/S&W, and two newer vices: Weird West RPG & Warrior, Rogue, and Mage RPG (both with significant, group-decided house rules).
• Playing styles lean more towards narrative. Asking for some calculations can eat time, despite experience.
• Our group likes painting & using miniatures; we contributed to the Reaper Miniatures’ BONES kickstarter.
• Character creation takes the most time and is the most enjoyable part. Less desirable times come when someone needs to borrow a calculator. Most of the time, players sit with a DM and tell them how they envision a character, and the DM helps quantify. I also run a small story (individually) to exemplify combat, casting, and bluff/diplomacy/purchasing to remind players of systems.
Here’s an outline of our current Pathfinder RPG troupe:
o Half-orc alchemist 3 (loves bombing & 2H Weapons)
o Halfling rogue 4 (skill monkey, hides any other time)
o Dwarven Cleric 4 (limited channeling)
o Human Paladin 3 (TANK and dumb- literally cannot speak)
o Elven Ranger 3 (Legolas wannabe)
o Half-elf Summoner (uses the Celestial Summoner archetype presented by Rite Publishing)(MUCH less bookkeeping WITHOUT his Eidolon? Nope, but minis really help!)
After seeing how much fun the player had with his Celestial Summoner, other players also thought about the archetypes therein. Are there combinations that I should look to add or avoid? I also wondered about a ZERO level campaign, and letting characters have NPCs to rise up to heroes.
Should I make pre-generated characters? I thought about it, and even looked up optimization guides for NPCs. My gaming group is experiencing some sluggish times, and I am asking for your advice on:
• RPG system to try, or additional supplements, archetypes, etc. without breaking bank,
• Pre-generated vs. PC made heroes,
• And any other information you may want to share.
Finally, with the BONES miniatures, is there a smart way to incorporate these as fuel to spark gaming interest? After talking with players, we WANT to play, but tend to get distracted with kids, jobs, schools, etc.
I have been reading various musings on the power of the sorcerer aquatic bloodline, even outside of seafaring-themed games. However, are there too many sorcerers for a half-elf to merit consideration?
Thanks in advance...
I have searched in vain, but could not find an answer:
Is there a Gamemastery Item Card depicting a firearm? I have a dwarven gunner, and I'd like him equipt. If so, in which set is the card found?
Thanks in advance.
I may suggest reading Neil's comments about his Fellnight Queen adeventure. His answers were to questions similar to yours in the OP. I also suggest tinkering with the Dungeon Alphabet, because it has some basic features of old school gaming that can be short, tailored for a small encounter, and very impressive.
Dear Sean & Neil,
Thanks so much for a quick turn-around for answering my post and question! I applaud your gaming skills and design. I feel more confident in my pitch to our gaming group this week, and look forward to a near-future purchase. Again, thanks for great customer service, help, and advice.
-Dave
I've read that this adventure is "family friendly." Could anyone help explain why "Fellnight Queen" may (or may not) be suitable for a group of guys whose pre-teen and early teenagers want to play? As the regular GM, I'd love to advance my gaming group to 7th level to start- character creation is one of the things my gamers love to do! However, I also realize that - with a bit of tinkering or substitutions - many adventures or encounters can be watered-down statistically and by theme. I'd love to have an adventure that can be relatively "safe" for kids aged 11, 12, 13, and 19, with their 40-something dads.
Curses...the cavalier playtest will have to go on without me... I have three clinical intakes and psychological assessments to do...BEFORE Thanksgiving. Well, mental health care is busy, if not economically rewarding.
Hey, not a problem! Based on what you know of the dungeon, would a cat or dog or boar of the riding size (small) have any impact one way or another about which my character (or I) should be concerned?
Szombulis, I think that choosing a slurk is a little too 'out there' for my tastes, and it would require a bit more work on my part to figure out mechanically, as seeker points out above.
I do agree, however, that in order to properly play a cavalier you will need a mount. In order to expand your options for mounts which would be appropriate to take into a dungeon crawl, I would be willing to gloss over the fact that certain animals are assumed size 'small' at first level. For example, if you wanted to give your guy a boar or a dog, it would be fine with me. We'll still use all of the stats of a small version, but assume that it's still large enough for your cavalier to ride. The animal's stats would improve at 4th level as normal. As pointed out, wolf or big cat would be good options, too. How does that sound?
Okay...*sniff* I'll look over the options for a small character mount and do the character stat stuff tonight & post it tomorrow!
If all Paizo printed material is available, may I consider a SLURK from "Crown of the Kobold King?" It's a CR2 slime-shucking underground toad, often used by kobolds as pets/mounts. I have the information if the storyteller does not have it available...
I think having an underground mount makes sense in an underground dungeon-a-day game/campaign. This way, I can try out the cavalier's abilities with a mount, and truely playtest trhe class. This new creature is also Paizo-specific, which is kinda nifty. Finally, this mount would prevent me from having to leave a pony or typical mount outside when we go underground.
Any restrictions/advice on a halfling mount for my cavalier in a dungeon? While I realize the boar is out of bounds until later, a riding dog should seem appropriate (but is named as a later choice). I'll open this up to the group for feedback as long as this question doesn't highjack the thread into a cavalier mount Q&A.
Thanks...
I would like to try the cavalier, using Pathfinder rules. I haven't used the newest Pathfinder (Beta playtest is where I stopped with other, real-life distractions) ruleset, but I think I will more likely be a role-player than a roll-player. Initially, I may lean towards a halfling, if this race will be allowed. I anticipate playing a defender role in some capacity, so oracles and wizardly folk are okay with me, as well as a primary combatant. I gather we would post daily, then?
The small group of heroes seems pleased with their initial meeting. Such civil greetings must wait, however, as eight lively oni-aka pour down from the rooftop and drop down from above! Only the headhunter retains his wits at this time! The reddish goblinoids attack two of the yamabushi from behind and slay them with quick swipes of their long bladed knives. The sage who pledged his student to this very righteous cause now quickly clasps his hands together and begins rubbing his hands with vigor. In the meanwhile, two other patrons fall to the murderous advances of the evil spawned before your very eyes...
To the Headhunter, only:
Spoiler:
You notice how these oni-aka have swarmed themselves from above the group. The remaining creatures grab a small boy and try to make an exit by pushing through a curtained window nearby. The physical distance is less than 25 feet, with a few obstructions like tables and chairs between you and this group to your right. Regarding other people nearby, an elderly woman carries a vase in her arms, but this is the only person standing in your way- literally.
The local village historically received significant attention from its local magistrate, Husuto the Humble. Master Husuto rose to power as a diplomatic and kind samurai and received his fiefs as his loyal reward from the Empire. Various young warriors joined watchmen ranks and patrolled both village boarders and town gates, inspired by Husuto’s honorable work and dedication to the lives of his people. Most times, the local guards dispatched to the area would have addressed something horrific as these oni-aka. Many rumors have spread as to the reasons why no help has arrived…
A quiet yamabushi strokes his long beard and loses his hand within the burley mass. “Ahem…the oni-aka are a mindless mob of filthy beasts seeking refuge in chaos. Their own desires are lost amid their random impulses, but one thing seems certain,” he says. As his extends his hand from his bread, he carries a small peach. “Like this fruit, the oni-aka once sprang into being as simple seed in this region. Whether carried here by strong winds, or planted deliberately, each seed needed nurturing to arrive in its current state. Finding peach trees will be easy, if you but look. Finding its gardener will be more difficult, I fear. Also know that both the oni-aka and the peach can be sliced open easily, but I do not recommend eating goblin flesh!” He older warrior monk boldly laughes to punctuate the last comment.
Ichimura stands to address the remaining gathered people. His long white sleeves flutter slightly and as he raises his arms to speak, his chest lies bared and reveals many intricate tattooed patterns. A most striking ink shows a boar chasing a hare in a circular pattern. “I pledge my faithful student to the task - Kouji Saikubo.” To accentuate his offer as some special blessing, the tattooed man throws a handful of cherry blossoms in the air. These petals explode in bright colors and the charred remains blow towards the direction of his student. “Ours is the magics of defense and knowledge, which we all seem to need at this time. He will serve us well.”
Aohashi the ashigaru stands up and leans mightily on his staff. “I could help, too.” His candor inspires many to smile, and some to laugh: the old farmer could barely stand up himself, but his courage seemingly courses through the group. Several others begin talking about wanting to help, including establishing an evening patrol, ending business before sundown, and using torches to illuminate the night.
The young boy who sought a closer inspection of the oni-aka now comes before the mighty hunter and extends a hand to him, holding one of the broken head-horns. "Are you sure you want to hunt that?" A look of disgust wringes his brow, but a secret smile betrays the boy's fledgling sense of hero-worship should your answer be true.
"Indeed, hunter, are you equipped to handle unnatural forces such as these wicked denziens? Well practiced in arts of ambush, oni-aka wield weapons wrought by man, as well as their own sinister intellect. They plunder the weak and sickly of their own kind, and yield no honor. Certainly, these demonic hordes vary greatly from deer, brave man." The yamabushi finishes his inquiry and for the first time, he sits at the chair and begins wrapping his feet in sturdy cloth. His brethren follow suit; you get the impression these men might be leaving, or at least preparing to travel. A foretelling omen appears- the morning sun finally bore through the light fog and rests calmly upon the heads of the yamabushi at this time...enlightment, indeed.
Several other tea house patrons begin to gather their belongings and a couple place early morning orders with their host.
Please accept an initial 50 XP for each character as our adventure begins! For successful completion of your pedigree/lingeage chart, please accept an additional 20 XP (if you have NOT done this xercise, please consider trying it and record your results. I think I have seen almost everyone's experiement, and consider this table to be a success! Again, the link for the Lineage Chart is HERE.
Anything that my character would know about his mentor? If the mentor is human or a fellow hengeyokai and whether or not the mentor likes to sneak a peek into the women's side of hot...
Let me work on his write up today. When you transform, let's say anything you carry on person/in hand goes with you. Pick a kind of material, maybe "jade" or something like it. THIS item does not transform with you, but you know it in advance, and can plan accordingly. Finally, you know the tea cup magic and its available wheneveryou want. I'd like you to roleplay the use when possible.
One, when a Hengeyokai changes shape, is it like a 3.5 druid's shapechange where the carried equipment and clotheswear are melded into the new form or would the Hengeyokai have to stash the equipment and clothing away before shapechanging?
Two, does a Shugenja start out with a free scrollcase/spellcase or should the Shugenja buy one at the price of a blank spellbook (100 gp)?
Btw, thought of some alternate names for the protection from chaos and detect magic spells. For Protection, something like Kaihi (avoid) Kodawari (trouble) work or maybe use kame (turtle)? For detect magic, something like Saigen (return) Mahou (magic) items (kajou) work or maybe use Inu (dog) Fecchi (fetch)?
I'll develop your mentor as an NPC who has a bit more personality. Give me today to do that work-up. Regarding the scrollcase and magic, you get those for free. If you want more spells, you'll have to pay for the paper at least for your master to transcribe (until you learn the Read Magic spell. Untilsuch time, you will copy and copy and copy and copy and copy the spells ou have learned until the mystic language becomes familiar to you. If anything, you can see your master as a guardian/gatekeeper for magic. You could easily compare yourself to oter scholars who know more magic than you do...but your master is very poweful (you feel), so the trade off might be worth it.). About the names of other spells, I'll defer the rest to you for what you know (and in the future, I'll give you the real name, and we can decide together what you might want to name it). I was liking the "Dog Fetch" name, or derivations of it.
Excellent! I approve this initial character. I would like to give your character another spell, but am not sure which way to do this. I'd welcome input about your interests and use of spells in the game. Regardless, I am renaming the "Sleep" spell as "Kitsune," which means "Come and sleep" as well as referring to the playful fox spirit known for its magical abilities.
Sounds fine by me; the occ/charop in me would probably go for adding "Prot. from Chaos I" as the extra spell- but the roleplayer part of me would imagine it more in line for the mentor, knowing how much of an impulsive youngling his charge is, to teach Kouji something harmless along the lines of "Read Language"/"Detect Magic" (if only to keep him from getting into too much trouble). ;P
That being said- it is a good question of how magic should be done in the game. As a path of least resistance, the idea of the standard vancian spellbook-use (or scrollbook, as the case may be) is fine by me. Another suggestion would be to handle things like the 3.5 sorceror, making arcane magic innate- possibly as a byproduct of being a Hengeyokai.
Keeping with a low-magic world, I like the idea of vancian magic using a scroll case. Because of the dangers in having only three party members at this point, I will allow you to have Detect MagicandProtection from Chaos. Your instructor wants you to learn more msytical ways from him. Therefore, you have a way to avoid trouble (Proection), a way to return interesting artifacts to him (Detect Magic) and even a way to remind you of the subtle nature of magic...be at peace, young Kouji Saikubo (Kitsune/Sleep).
The Un-carved Block & the Law of Unintended Consequences
As the morning sun burns away the lazy fog, Kagami’s citizens begin their day most unusually, yet characteristically busy. The empty smith shop echoes birds’ chirps, but not resounding hammer blows. The fish cart sits empty, but normally crests full of smelly wares before baking in the midday heat. Yagushi the Young cannot be found peddling his foreign trinkets or calling out to the beautiful women. Amid this scenic change, our heroes enter the local farming community with distress. No trade will occur this morning, and most exchanges have dropped with the recent drought. Few visitors have wandered this far since once-important shrines have chosen not to compete for their faithful.
Today, our heroes walk through the village. Each has arrived at their own time, seeking greater wisdom and hopes for understanding. Their survival is linked to this small. The Enno tea house has seemingly become a focal point of many villagers this morning. The dirt path leading down to the small eatery has been beaten to dust with activity. As our heroes explore the tea house, they eventually discover an uncommon scene.
Four men dressed in yellow robes and red sashes stand close together. One man stands atop a small table and appears to address the crowd. His eyes fill with intensity and fire that could almost match the brilliant silk clothes he wears. His fanciful, embroidered sleeves flutter like the dragonflies stitched on his clothes as the man moves his arms while talking. His similarly dressed companions stand close together. Upon further inspection, our heroes can discern ornate scabbards resting comfortably within the recessed folds of the yamabushis’ robes. All four men sport wild, thin black hair, including unkempt beards and a couple matted foreheads.
Finally, the heroes can heard the speech given by the supposed leader of this group:
“…and after twelve nights, we tracked the foul oni along the river way. They lived in a small cave less than five miles from this very place! My brothers and I fought them with cold steel and colder resolve. Good people, you must know that this – thing – know lies dead.” At his words, three of the bearded warriors step apart and reveal a large woven sack. Their outspoken leader jumps from the table top and quickly opens the bag and reveals a most disgusting figure! A small man lies crumpled and falls to the teahouse floor with a soft noise. The color of his skin shocks some of the women and draws some of the children. A bright crimson hue adorns the flesh of this small man. His eyes are somewhat larger than one might expect, and his hair looks even worse (if possible) than the yamabushi wear! Long dirty fingernails jut from the red man’s elongated fingers. Some pox or curse surely befell this poor creature, because his bare chest and shoulders seem to be covered in scales or an extremely dry skin disease. Most shocking is his lack of modesty- the man wears no clothing or loincloth. Yet, somehow this man appears less than what he seems, while being something more than what is examined.
As the audible gasps fade, the loud warrior continues his lecture. “Good people, my brothers and I must return to our daimyo in three days and await his orders. He will surely be displeased to learn of this ugly creature walking in your midst. I charge you with protecting this village. Take up arms and fight these wicked imps. Do not be fooled by their appearance boy,” he says while addressing a young man who thought it fun to poke the red man with a stick when nobody was watching. “This is an oni-aka, a red goblin! I tore off its horns from its head as it bit at my very soul!” For dramatic effect, the yamabushi discards two fist-sized horns matching the reddish coloration of the reddish creature. These horns land and bounce on the floor near the heroes.
“Will you protect the village in our stead? We are merely dutiful pilgrims sent on task to examine to cause and extent of drought. We are not free to remain here. Who will drink from the cup of honor and stand tall?” The crowd looks around as if trying to answer this non-rhetorical question.
The heroes need not know one another in advance. This opening was designed to include few pre-existing ties. Feel free to evaluate this situation and respond this weekend…
Let's look over the special perks again, and if everyone is on board, can we look forward to starting the game this weekend? I think that letting everyone read some postings over the weekend would be good, and begin posting regularly starting next week?
I will have a starting point for all of you tomorrow. I expect that I will have a local patron offer free food and lodging to discuss some issues, and let things unfold from that point. Kind of standard opening, but with a few limited starting points for characters to undertake. Does anyone want something special in the village/town, beyond local shrines and a basic salesman/men?
Hey, sorry if I appear to be unhappy about the dietary restrictions (I actually don't mind it that much, I just wanted to get all the details, still trying to get use to "less rules, more rulings"). But I really like the craftsman perk. I think it's cool to be able to make items, even though they have to be non-metal. Crafting items, though, brings up another question that I have on the back of my head.
There are always craft feats, but they are rarely taken because in most adventures, there is usually a time element. The DM don't always allow players to sit around and craft stuff, since after they save the children, they have to save the village, and after the village, go on another quest. Some of the more hardcore stuff also takes days if not weeks to craft...
The crux of my question is, will there be a good chunk of time, in between quests, to concentrate on crafting? Can crafting time be split to a couple of hours a day, like at night before I retire to bed?
Sorry, I seem to be asking a lot of questions. I must emphasize that I like this perk a lot. Just want to be on the same page as the Ref.
Depending on what it was that you sought to craft, I'd be totally fine with you devoting time to making stuff around bedtime, early in the morning, etc. Again, depending on what you were making, you'd also have to decide what would happen if you had to abandon the stuff if ambushed, things fell apart, etc. Let's agree to use the crafting resource background, then, and forget the hit point augmentation. You could still elect to keep a fun diet, but would receive no special boons or flaws for doing it beyond fun role-playing.
Hey, I didn't feel like you were mad or anything, so it's all okay :) I just wanted to make players' characters feel a little special!
Alternatively, instead of the current health augmentation, I could simply make YOUR Headhunter a master craftsman. By this (without bells and whistles to describe), your character could make natural, non-metal items and equipment at a fraction of the cost (maybe BASE 10% off + 1d6 x 10% MORE off). For example, buying something that normally costs 50 ryo would be at LEAST 20% less for you to have made it (figure BASE 10% + 1d6 (minimum 1)x10% MORE off). The best you could make something would be 70% off. I could have you sell items that you made at 90% listed cost + 1d20 (%). Quick math suggests that if you could find a buyer, you can make a profit most times. If you wanted to make something kooky or unusual (i.e., not listed somewhere), we could take that item on a case-by-case basis (maybe roll your intelligence to see if your character could desigt or make it correctly). You appeared unhappy about your dietary restrictions, so I'm offering an alternative to it that might be more enjoyable and still provide a role-playing opportunity for you. Also, I'm open for suggestions if neither perk works for you, or even if you don't want a special perk.
I'm at the library right now, so sorry if this isn't entirely tthought through right now...limited time...
-Dave
As an aside, I thought I should point out how it astounds me that a wicker, the equivalent of a backpack, costs 10 ryo. With that money, you can buy a chest (large, wooden) or a tent (large, 4 person). I wonder if that's a typo, or there is some kind of explanation as to why, in Japan, a wicker cost twice the amount vs. a western backpack. I place my bet on expensive labor...
Is a western sack (15 lb capacity) open for purchase?
Yes to all questions in the previous two posts. Rice = grain, and he pricing for fruits makes sense. Yeah, I looked at the cost of things and I agree that there are lots of questions. I'll try to be fair when I doll out stuff later. Finally, got ahead and MAKE your own backpack (you're a headhunter in the jungle...make it at half cost of a wicker pack...good job!).
I think I had this question on the back of my head but just didn't get around to addressing it. Is there a strict tally on whether or not we eat?
A lot of games that I played in don't really address food. Certain DMs subtract a certain amount of gold per week for upkeep, but that's about it. My character investment seems to suggest that there will be oversight on when we eat and even what we eat. Is this really what, as a Ref, you would like to incorporate into your game?
So in this game setting, how abundant is fruit/grain? Is there such a thing as dry fruits (I actually don't think dry fruits are very healthy), so I can sustain my diet over long trips w/out having to stop every couple of hours to gather fresh fruits? Would I have to carry cooking utensils to cook the grain, or is there a simple way to doing it? I use an electronic rice cooker, so I wouldn't know...
And what is the trade offs of starving vs. non-fruit/grain food? I imagine I would lose some temporary STR or DEX or CON. It seems unclear whether it's worth starving myself over eating poisonous non-healthy foods (at low level, a couple of bad meals can literally kill me).
Fruits and grains should be readily abundant in most situations. Pack a few extra (dried) fruit rations and you will find yourself in plenty of good shape. Will there come a time that you must scrounge? Maybe- so be prepared for it in case in does happen, but I'm not planning to railroad you into something odd. For the advantge offered, I wanted something against which to measure it.
I'd like all players to consider how their characters meet standard needs. I also agree with your assessment that tracking food might be somewhat boring. Surely, you could preserve foodstuffs like dried fruit and the like. While you might not have to report or sometimes even buy food you need, I think how you view food lends to some interactions and a unique character.
I had all three characters manage special resources: the shugenja had some control over spells, the headhunter had control over hit points, and the sohei had control over some unique hired help. Knowing this, I WON'T be offended if you didn't like what I set up for your character; please provide some other suggestions if you'd like.
Character Investments
As the initial party comes together, I offer the following creative bits to each character:
To Kouji Saikubo, The Rainbow-Winged Shugenja:
Spoiler:
I offer an ancestral set of ceremonial tea cups and saucers. Useful for various important events as per the custom and culture, the secrets of magic lie within one special cup: after drinking from the cup (one sip will suffice), tea leaves gather to the surface and reveal mystical writings. These instructions allow one spell to be cast with optimized dice rolls once during the day, until the next mealtime occurs. Of course, the shugenja (or sohei) can fast for a meal (but no more than two) and retain this special bonus. Exercise caution when using this tea set, however… careful inspection reveals many other curious scripts painted on the porcelain ware.
To Akemi, Sohei of Great Compassion:
Spoiler:
I offer the blessings of communal good cheer. Once per adventure or assignment, you may petition your monastic order for missionary work. You will (likely) receive one or more potential converts or persons who have expressed interest in your faith. In addition to teaching this person(s) the ways of your religion, you are fully responsible for their care and upkeep during the adventure. Because this person(s) has some initial loyalty to you, they will not charge for their working services, but rather volunteer their duties in the name of your deity. For example, you might attract the attentionof a curious torh bearer, or an animal trainer, or a sage. They will not charge you for their services, but your order requires that you care for their needs. Exercise caution in which adventures you undertake, however, because you may not always choose who will listen to the wisdom of your faith.
To Takeshi Kaneshiro, the First Born with Two Heads:
Spoiler:
I offer increased health for your dedication to healthy diets. Sustaining ones’ self on only fruits and grains has increased your vitality by immeasurable bounds! At each level, you have a slight chance (Level X 10%) of realizing these benefits immediately. These benefits culminate as an additional Hit Die (roll 1d6; this number is NOT maximized at first level). For example, at Level 1 (Level 1 x 10% = 10%), you have a 10% chance of adding an extra 1d6 hit points to your character; at Level 6 (Level 6 X 10% = 60%) you have a 60% chance of adding an additional hit die to your health. Your health regime requires strict adherence to your diet, though- eating or drinking things other than fruits and grains inflicts 1d6 damage (per meal/instance) and negates any special bonuses to Saving Throws vs. Death and Poisons.
All, please feel free to check out each other's spoilers after having first read your own. If you feel any of this information is imbalanced or unfair, please share your thoughts and reasoning polietly here and we can move forward. Feedback is appreciated.
I had a blast doing the family lineage (outcast! how perfect), but think the family traits could have been improved (poor hygiene? come on). How much each character’s family will come into play really depends on the Ref. I like the ideal of evil twins, though!
I'm glad this exercise worked well for you, and I enjoyed reading the history. Please feel free to change the hygiene issue to something you might like better, but I'm glad this exercise was fun and useful!
Fantastic stuff, everyone! It looks like we have three players willing and ready to commit to game play. Let's double-check stating gear and make any final adjustments. I will finish my preperation by tomorrow and have a few nifty bonus tips for each of you at that time. While waiting, please check out this interesting chart for use in "Ruins & Ronin." Would we like to use it? I'm thinking it'd be a fun option for players to creae a tad more history for new characters.
HP: 7 (3 in sparrow form)
GP: 110
AL: LG
Spell: Sleep
Equip: TBA
Envisioning a relatively young character raised under the tutelage of an older Shugenja but still has ties to his hengeyokai family (distant as it may be, if the local hengeyokai village is located far from where the adventure starts out). Possible motivation for "adventuring" might be a lack of patience with his tutor's "wait and see" attitude regarding the events that are unfolding.
Excellent! I approve this initial character. I would like to give your character another spell, but am not sure which way to do this. I'd welcome input about your interests and use of spells in the game. Regardless, I am renaming the "Sleep" spell as "Kitsune," which means "Come and sleep" as well as referring to the playful fox spirit known for its magical abilities.
Akemi gave up her family name upon joining her temple, where she has trained for 10 years. Now she is on a journey to connect with the spirits of the land, and to aid the poor.
Very good background to start the game. HAve you given any consideration to a holy symbol for the character- what it looks like?
Neat! I'll take a closer look at the material tomorrow.
Should all posts be made here now (until the game starts)?
I think we can stick here until we "close" the inquiry thread. I'll spend some time checking out the other thread to see and welcome others who show interest or curiosity.
Please feel free to read the information and provide feedback. At this time, I see only two characters in action (which could be good, mind you, and help develop a rich story over simple dice rolling).
I started a new discussion thread about characters and backstory, as well as taking advice and making some of my expectations known. The link to the new thread can be found here. Thanks, everyone!
This play-by-post game will begin in August 2009, and run indefinitely. Posting rates should occur about once daily (at least). Failure to post longer than about one week may result in character forfeiture, unless prior arrangements can be made (i.e., attending a wedding or funeral out of town, illness, etc.). Players should create Japanese-like characters using the White Box edition of the “Ruins & Ronin” game. “White Box” terminology refers to classic 0D&D that had limited resources or supplemental materials; this game seeks to recapture the interactive freedom and story-telling that fewer rules may permit. Players may want to have their own dice to use, but will only need six-sided and (a) twenty-sided dice. Again, this gaming system attempts to do more with less. Alternatively, players may want to record their dice rolls using an online dice calculator, like Invisible Castle or many others; the storyteller assumes players want an honorable gaming experience, so dice rolls can simply be posted without links to outside sources- I will trust players until they prove untrustworthy.
For more information about traditional or “original” style gaming, please read the free “Quick Primer for Old School Gaming” by Matt Finch, available here:
Quick Primer for Old School Gaming
All players should have a copy of the White Box “Ruins & Ronin” campaign expansion for the White Box “Swords & Wizardry” role-playing game. BOTH FREE .pdf files are available online:
Ruins & Ronin Supplement, White Box Edition
and
Swords & Wizardry White Box Edition
Additionally, other character classes and races are possible by visiting author Mike Davison’s website, here:
Sword +1 Website
Finally, know that the basic “sandbox” world includes a low-magic setting. While Sohei and Shugenja (traditional clerics/monks and magic-users, respectively) may become powerful, most NPCs and monsters will not have access to (many) powerful magic items. Note- this restricts the Hengeyokai race; I will allow only one player character to be a member of this magical race. Please temper expectations accordingly.
Wow- no, this is not me. While I am a patriot and believe in the American Constitutional right to bear arms, this supply of firepower is not my own. I merely referred to the credits page in "Barbarians of Lemuria" where the author said a special thanks to me for editing, that's all. I just really liked the setting and the game. As a small lesson, please be involved in games or hobbies which you enjoy- that passion can translate into outstanding influence in your own favorite past-time!
Sorry about posting later than anticipated...life kinda got in the way today a bit, but I typed a good draft that I can re-post here. For now, please know that we are going with the White Box rules, which means that you will only need to d6's and d20's from here on out. This means that Hit Points are used by rolling d6 (or in the case of the headhunter class, with maximized hit points houseruled in, plus your Constitution bonus in effect Wilhem, you'd have 6+6+1+1, or 14 hit points at first level.). So far, I like both characters descriptions well, and approve.
I would like to try R&R before revisiting BoL again, but it's on my radar (especially since Simon Washbourne gave me props in the credits for editing!---see my "real name" and you can see who I am).
I think the editing needs to be tightened up a little on it, but it's a nice piece of work.
I am assuming we will use the S&W ability bonuses, but will it be White Box or Core?
I would like to play anything really.
I think in this thread you need to determine exactly who will be playing and then go to a discussion thread. (from past experience)
At the moment I am leaning towards a sohei.
Wilhelm - it may help if you think of Swords and Wizardy as a clone of the very first edition of D&D from the '70s before feats, skills et al.
Considering both Core & White Box are free products, I think that Core Rules offers more robust options. Considering the already-made comparrisons to other D&D games, perhaps the Core Rules makes a smoother and more famliar transition (using different dice). Although, shock to the system could be fun- d6s & d20s all around! HA.
Seriously- I have both sets of rules, so whatta you guys want? Sorry for sounding very wishy-washy. I want to have some buy in from folks, but need some input. Quite honestly, I tend to tell stories dynamic in nature, and even willingly deviate from rules when needed to promote the story.
It's Friday night. I'l post something about character ideas in a new thread later tonight or tomorrow.
Alright, a few questions. There will be more questions as I read more, so hopefully no one will get annoyed. All are free to help.
1. Rolling 3d6 for each stat. Do we roll 6 numbers then assign them to the ability we desire, or the first number is definitely STR, the second number is def DEX, etc? In other words, are we free to assign any of the six numbers we rolled up to each ability?
2. There doesn't seem to be feats or skills. What happens when you want to dual wield or sneak? Are they solely governed by ability scores now?
3. Mechanic wise, do you get anything for being Human?
Wilhem,
Trying to answer questions is healthy, because I'm sure others have similar thoughts or questions.
1 Roll 'em, THEN assign the scores as you'd like to make the character you want.
2. NO feats and skills- this is old school gaming. You gain bonuses or abilities based on how well you describe the actions, not simply adjudicated by random dice rolls. Carrying two weapons? Okay...I might impose a slight penalty to do so, but as time goes on, I'll likely lower the penalty. Sneak? HOW are you doing it? Hiding in shadows wearing a heavy cloak? Did you buy some tar to coat your shiny sword? THIS is how old school was played- more imagination- less dice rolling.
3. Humans are cool. There are two other races, though, to check out. Mechanicially, no bonus or penalty or other such perks. Prejudices are likely lower, though.
Here's where you can find a copy of the Swords and Wizardry rules- best of all, they's for free- the pdf version that is. And if I recall correctly, it's also up for an Ennies too
Szombulis wrote:
Great! I'll copy-&-paste the introduction topic to the gamers wanted section...
Any ideas on what you'd be interested in playing in Ruins & Ronin?
Haven't really decided yet, though leaning towards the Headhunter subclass. Is there an online roller that you want us to use?
Regarding online rollers, I am a bit torn. I think initially, I'd like players to roll up their character abilities scores and assign them to make the chaacter YOU want to play. While it would be fun to have a party of bushi, I can't help but wonder what might changeparty dynamics if someone could cast spells (especially if the player made comments as such). Therefore, roll on your honor for ability scores. Let's talk more about other rolls in the future. Quite honestly, I'd be okay with honor rolls (especially since this is a feudal Japan-like game!).
Had a quick glance over the pdf. Must say that I can kind of understand it (due to my previous experience on D&D), but have questions over certain parts. Will need assistance in character creation, any help is appreciated.
The pdf also feel a bit skeletal. I have the same thought as JZ that Ruins and Ronins looks like a supplemental. Is there a "core" book out there or can Ruins be run on it's own? Most importantly, can a character be created with just the Ruins pdf or is there something else that explains the rules in greater detail?
I shall take a closer look at the pdf tomorrow and post questions.
I think the rules ar designed to be skeletal, and add a lot of flavor amongst the players and DM. Please feel free to check out the Swords & Wizardry free rules, too (and vote for the best truely FREE RPG!), and decide on a genealized, traditional OD&D character (fighter/cleric/magic-user or even a half-ogre [among at least two other character classes online at the website, including the ninja and headhunter). Let's meet again here to discuss what options you'd like to explore.
Agreed. And not to take the decision away from Szombulis, but I found a dynamic PBP to be much more enjoyable then a stale one. Furthermore, I find posting a response (even during work) to be ridiculously easy.
On a similar topic, I bumped into a DM Manifesto a while back. I thought it clarified nicely the expectations of the DM before the game started, which in terms helped the players understand the flow better. If you're interested:
Are these rules a supplement to Swords and Wizardry?
The rules follow the same flow and structure as Swords and Wizardry, however are a "new" game entirely. By "new," I mean that a fighting man is replaced with a bushi, a long sword with katana, etc. Does this help you understand Ruins & Ronin?
Fantastic news, all. I would like a daily post rate. I only mentioned the slower post rate as the indicator by which a character would revert to NPC status. Therefore, in less confusing jargon, I'd hope for daily posting (but understand that people might be busy some days), but after a week of slackin', the character becomes an NPC unless some other situation is approached (i.e. vacation, loss of loved one, etc.).
Does this concept seem easily digestable?
Grab the rules and let's discuss possible characters. Should I make a new thread about characters, or would this idea be contained here?
Welcome to Kagami, a gentle farming and fishing village. Kagami also provides would-be heroes a backdrop setting for playing “Ruins & Ronin,” a Japanese-like Swords & Wizardry role-playing game. At this time, the narrator seeks players’ interest in making characters for a play-by-post game. Here are some additional ideas to help make informative decisions:
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This play-by-post uses the core rules set forth in the “Ruins & Ronin” 2009 release, either print or .pdf version, available at Ruins & Ronin (sword +1) Blogsite . Note, the 80-page .pdf costs $1 USD. Alternatively, there are *FREE* rules at this same web blog site, too.
Use any of the four core character classes: bujin, shugenja, sohei, and half-ogre. Additional inquiries about other classes and races are welcomed with intelligent rationale.
Ascending Armor Class [AAC] will be used to determine defenses.
Use new names for coinage. For example, page 18 equates “Gold” with “Ryo.”
Starting Hit Points are maximized- no need to roll.
Report other starting numbers honorably, including money and ability scores. Roll ability scores and assign results in player’s favor to create a character class/race wanted.
Alignments are restricted to Law and Good for the moment. Three deities prominent in Kagami citizens’ lives, including small shrines located in the village, include:
Amatsumara (male, patron of smiths), Kannon (female, patron of mercy), and Takitsu-hime (female, patron of rainfall). Other possible deities are welcomed for discussion.
Unless otherwise noted, players failing to post longer than one week’s time will have assumed to abandon their characters. Characters can be played as NPCs or left to some other fate fitting to the narrator.
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The adventure story introduction places the small village in duress. Several small streams feeding the town have dried-up unexpectedly, making farming more difficult and even threatens the summer harvest. A neighboring daiymo raised taxes and political pressure builds for your young lord to do likewise. Recently, more migrant farmers arrived to escape the heavy taxation. Other residents followed, including a quiet family of half-ogres. Lastly, the Kannon shrine in the northern way has been silent for weeks. No divinations or pilgrimages have happened since the last full moon. A single teahouse rests against the largest brook in the village, and Enno Cherry Blossom welcomes many visitors. Rumors persist that many yamabushi frequent the teahouse, but none can confirm reports of wild-looking, unshaven monks attending to this village.
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I hope for at least three people expressing interest in the game by Friday of next week (July 24 '09), with characters made within a week of expressed interest. Therefore, the game should be underway by August, hopefully. Thanks for your interest!
