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Pathfinder Adventure Path #157: Devil at the Dreaming Palace (Agents of Edgewatch 1 of 6)

3.50/5 (based on 13 ratings)
Pathfinder Adventure Path #157: Devil at the Dreaming Palace (Agents of Edgewatch 1 of 6)
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Get ready to shine your badge and report for duty—the Agents of Edgewatch Adventure Path begins! In this thrilling new Pathfinder campaign, players assume the role of fresh recruits of the Edgewatch, the newest division of Absalom's city watch. Tasked with fighting crime during this year's Radiant Festival—a grand centennial gathering of exhibitors and wonders from around the world that this year celebrates the grand reopening of Absalom's treacherous Precipice Quarter, long a ruined haven of monsters and criminals. Soon after taking on the new beat, the detectives learn that the fair has attracted not only cutpurses and vandals, but also poisoners, ransomers, and even a sadistic serial murderer, and it's up to the Agents of Edgewatch to crack the case and bring these villains to justice!

“Devil at the Dreaming Palace,” by fan-favorite author James L. Sutter, is a Pathfinder adventure for four 1st-level characters. The adventure kicks off the Agents of Edgewatch Adventure Path, in which the heroes join the city watch to solve a series of crimes across Absalom, the City of Lost Omens, before the crooks can pull off the ultimate heist! This volume also includes an in-depth gazetteer of Absalom's Radiant Festival, thematically appropriate new monsters, and new rules designed to support the Agents of Edgewatch campaign!

Each monthly full-color softcover Pathfinder Adventure Path volume contains an in-depth adventure scenario, stats for several new monsters, and support articles meant to give Game Masters additional material to expand their campaign. Pathfinder Adventure Path volumes use the Open Game License and work with both the Pathfinder RPG and the world's oldest fantasy RPG.

ISBN-13: 978-1-64078-253-2

Other Resources: This product is also available on the following platforms:

Hero Lab Online
Fantasy Grounds Virtual Tabletop
Roll20 Virtual Tabletop
Archives of Nethys

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This is the best edgewatch book, but...

3/5 —

...Its also giant meatgrinder with multiple overtuned encounters and tpk opportunities at level 1 and at the final boss.

Its still best crime solving book out of entire ap, even with its issues(the labor strike/hostage thing as written is yikes in many ways), because this is before Twilight Four's nonsense starts, but part of why later book suffers is problems starting from this book.

Like for example, this book's adventure toolbox article lacks campaign outline that actually explains what is Twilight Four's history and plan, so GM has to put it together from over course of reading multiple books... And their plan seems to be kinda poor for master criminals.

Its hard to review Edgewatch books as a player who is now reading the ap because biggest problems of Edgewatch relate to ap as campaign. Like its fairly clear the AP would have been better as 3 part one, timescale of AP makes no sense(why does it need to take place during Radiant Festival exactly and why couldn't festival be as long as chicago's worldfair festival it seems to be inspired by?)

While this is also only book in ap that remembers players should prefer to use nonlethal combat methods(ap was clearly written with different assumption than player's guide), its also the one that misses opportunity to use automatic bonus progression rules or create campaign specific loot rules and instead just handwaves it with "edgewatch is acting with privateer laws for duration of ap"

Its also feels like straight up false advertising when this ap was promoted as police procedural ap while book itself says "Since the focus of this Adventure Path is fast-paced action rather than legal paperwork,"... Well I really disagree with take that town guard ap should be cop action movie, it really should have put more focus on crime solving and investigation and etc thing than just rushing pcs into next action scene with tiniest amount of downtime and breathers.

Devil at the Dreaming Palace in itself is memorable and brutal adventure, but yeah its best ap because its self contained from later books weird issues.

5/5 —


Almost made us not play 2e.

1/5 —

With any kind of published adventure, especially one in a new system starting at level 1 the most important question is "can I pick this up and run it?" If the answer to that question is no, it's like a car missing a part. It doesn't matter what the engine torque is if there are no wheels. It doesn't matter how engaging the plot or setting are if you can't run this as a game.

The escaped critters encounter is an absolute meat grinder. Paizo's products tend to over estimate low level (especially brand new first levels) but this is n.v.t.s. nuts. Several monsters in a row can walk up to PCs, hit them twice and drop them without even critting. One of the hits is LIKELY to be a crit that will drop them.

The situation is set up so that you probably shouldn't be taking short rests to heal up, much less take the long rests you're going to need to recover from each encounter. There are clever system agnostic adventurer shenanigans you can do to avoid engaging with the system, but as far as "lets try out pf2" goes you get the impression that the adventure and system want to turn you into a fine red mist.

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Pathfinder Maps, Pathfinder Accessories Subscriber; Pathfinder Roleplaying Game Charter Superscriber; Starfinder Charter Superscriber
Joana wrote:
Noah Cadwell wrote:

Probably a dumb question, but is this for 1E or 2E Pathfinder

All Adventure Path volumes numbered #145 and up are for Second Edition Pathfinder.

It is also safe to assume that any and all upcoming Pathfinder products from Paizo are for Pathfinder Second Edition.

... well, except for AP-Collection like the Kingmaker Remake (which will be available for PF, PF2 and DnD5E IIRC),
or Pocket Editions for 1E Supplements or Rulebooks.
1 person marked this as a favorite.

The Kingmaker remake is 2E only with a 5E Bestiary.
1 person marked this as a favorite.
Grankless wrote:
The Kingmaker remake is 2E only with a 5E Bestiary.

I'm pretty sure it has 1e conversion rules too. But you're right, it's being built for 2e.

Darn, it's been a while since I looked at that.
Yes, the Kingmaker AP Hardcover will be PF2 strictly.
But yes, there will be a Bestiary for DnD5E and a Bestiary for Pathfinder (Legacy / Classic / 1E...)

Back to AoE 1/6: Man do I hope to be on the front of the shipping queue.
1 person marked this as a favorite.

Player's Guide is out!
1 person marked this as a favorite.
Pathfinder Roleplaying Game Charter Superscriber
captain yesterday wrote:
Player's Guide is out!

Awesome! Looking forward to it.

Sovereign Court
gagsmith wrote:
Any update on the players guide release date?

The Webstore says it is ready to ship! Well, the first book anyway.

Dang, no one got an early PDF yet, really want to see how this AP unfolds a bit before I commit to running it in the near future.

For me how different is it compared to the other AP's,. Then as this is the first AP with all the core rules at least is it well put together and any mini games?

How are the maps?

Thanks

Tom
Dark Archive

Anyone got there subscriber PDF yet?
2 people marked this as a favorite.
Pathfinder Roleplaying Game Superscriber; Pathfinder Starfinder Roleplaying Game Subscriber
Kevin Mack wrote:
Anyone got there subscriber PDF yet?

I've got it, thought I haven't had much of a chance to read it yet! Happy to answer questions, though.

TRDG wrote:

Dang, no one got an early PDF yet, really want to see how this AP unfolds a bit before I commit to running it in the near future.

For me how different is it compared to the other AP's,. Then as this is the first AP with all the core rules at least is it well put together and any mini games?

How are the maps?

Thanks

Tom

The maps (both the city map and the smaller maps) are beautiful -- really nicely done.

No new mini-games that I can see.

As for comparing this AP to other ones: This AP seems to have a lot more opportunities for RPing/using social skills to resolve encounters than the previous APs. This AP also seems to have a lot more of a detective/puzzle-solving angle to it than the previous APs. So if this is the kind of thing your players like, then this AP may be of interest to you.

What are the new monsters in this one?

Cool, thanks Porridge, most of my groups would like that change compared to AoA and EC. Bummer about no mini game so far as those are usually a big hit for my players, something like get X number of investigation points and you get specifc hints or uncover facts . Certain sidequests give a number of these points that unlock XYZ, but still 5 more modules to go!!

And once you have a chance to read is there a lot of cool and meaty NPC's in there as well?

Thanks again kind sir

Tom
4 people marked this as a favorite.
Pathfinder Roleplaying Game Superscriber; Pathfinder Starfinder Roleplaying Game Subscriber
Valantrix1 wrote:
What are the new monsters in this one?

There are four new monsters:

  • Binumir (3): A banshee-like creature formed by a pair of individuals who bear a strong bond to each other.
  • Cobbleswarm (2): A swarm of cobble mites, little (usually harmless) pebble-like creatures who are sometimes inadvertently used in the constructions of roads or buildings.
  • Siege Shard (3): Constructs with a poltergeist-like feel to them, formed by the strong emotions of fear, confinement, and desperation that can occur during sieges and other violent conflicts.
  • Zrukbat (2): Secretive bat-like fey who can shapechange into various common objects, though their lack of common sense often makes often makes them do a poor job.

    TRDG wrote:

    Cool, thanks Porridge, most of my groups would like that change compared to AoA and EC. Bummer about no mini game so far as those are usually a big hit for my players, something like get X number of investigation points and you get specifc hints or uncover facts . Certain sidequests give a number of these points that unlock XYZ, but still 5 more modules to go!!

    And once you have a chance to read is there a lot of cool and meaty NPC's in there as well?

    Thanks again kind sir

    Tom

    The toolbox has a two page spread for three key NPCs in the adventure. Spoilers below, so *don't* read if you're intending to play this AP!

    Key NPCs:
    Grospek Lavarsus (7): The PC's city guard commander, and a classic "mean boss".
    Hendrid Pratchett (6): A clever, charming serial killer, and the main antagonist of the adventure.
    Ralso (4): An ex-con from a hard background, consumed by the tragic death of her sister, and a tragic antagonist of the PCs.

    But the book has short cameos from a *lot* of other interesting/entertaining NPCs for the party to interact with -- many more than one usually finds in Paizo APs.

    •
    3 people marked this as a favorite.
    Pathfinder Adventure Path, Lost Omens, Starfinder Adventure Path Subscriber

    Spoiler:
    Ahh, there's another Vancaskerkin here. What is it with this family. LOL!
    3 people marked this as a favorite.
    Pathfinder Adventure Path, Lost Omens, Rulebook, Starfinder Adventure Path, Starfinder Roleplaying Game Subscriber

    Hm, at first glance this reads much more linear in terms of storytelling than, say, the first module of Hell's Rebels. Also quite a bit more dungeon-based (or "large building" based) than I would have expected for this kind of topic.

    And, of course, the theme of "PC's as city watch guardmen" is handled, as far I can see from a quick look-through, thoroughly respectfully, as one would expect from Paizo.
    Sovereign Court
    Pathfinder Adventure Path, Lost Omens, Maps, Rulebook Subscriber

    Anyone happen to know when this is supposed to be released on Fantasy Grounds? I see Roll20 has promised to release it on July 30th but curious about Fantasy Grounds (as I generally prefer it for home games).
    Pathfinder Adventure Path, Lost Omens, Rulebook Subscriber

    Ohhh I want to play this one sooooo bad, must resist reading the book

    Can anyone share which Bestiary 1 and 2 creatures are in book 1?
    Pathfinder Roleplaying Game Superscriber
    GM Facepalm wrote:
    Can anyone share which Bestiary 1 and 2 creatures are in book 1?

    Here you go:

    Spoiler:
    goblin warrior

    skeleton guard
    cockatrice
    owlbear
    rust monster
    hyena
    giant viper
    flash beetle
    ankhrav
    kobold scout
    bloodseeker
    hunting spider
    kobold warrior
    kobold dragon mage
    gelatinous cube
    ghoul
    caligni creeper
    mimic
    redcap
    soulbound doll
    attic whisperer
    animated statue
    ochre jelly
    wight

    Thank you!
    Dark Archive
    Pathfinder Starfinder Roleplaying Game Subscriber

    I'll guess I'll buy the first part even though I'm not planning to read this since I want to play this ap... Might not buy the parts after this mostly to avoid temptation of spoilers. Actually I'll consider it further because I can't currently buy Legends book...
    Dark Archive
    Pathfinder Starfinder Roleplaying Game Subscriber

    Hnggghhh.... I really want to buy this but I really want to play this too.... I'll guess I'll delay buying it for now at least :'D
    1 person marked this as a favorite.

    I have to say, I'm enjoying the Victorian flavor and art.
    1 person marked this as a favorite.

    I have to say I find the name of the main villain... unfortunate, especially in combination with the City Watch theme.
    2 people marked this as a favorite.
    JamieTH wrote:
    I have to say I find the name of the main villain... unfortunate, especially in combination with the City Watch theme.

    I found that approximately 0% coincidental.

    Pathfinder Roleplaying Game Superscriber

    "A man is not dead while his name is still spoken."
    Exo-Guardians

    Should probably add a mature content warning on this adventure. When they say "sadistic serial murderer" they mean "makes Curse of Strand look like Candyland".

    Spoiler:
    I was a little surprised at the sheer amount of detailed horror and depravity in one chapter, and while there's a sidebar addressing it, I was really expecting cheeky and amusing buddy cop hijinks mimicking the Watch novels rather than twisted gore horror.

    (Which to be fair it was... Until it wasn't.)
    Silver Crusade
    1 person marked this as a favorite.
    Pathfinder Adventure Path, Starfinder Adventure Path Subscriber
    Asethskyr wrote:

    Should probably add a mature content warning on this adventure. When they say "sadistic serial murderer" they mean "makes Curse of Strand look like Candyland".

    ** spoiler omitted **

    Yeah, the last chapter is such a massive tonal shift, content warnings are well required.

    I would probably make massive changes to that final chapter,

    Spoiler:
    because I would want a little less Saw, and a little more Scooby Doo
    .
    Grand Lodge
    9 people marked this as a favorite.
    Pathfinder Adventure, Rulebook Subscriber

    Good to know the people worried about Paizo "toning it down" had unfounded fears.
    Pathfinder Adventure Path, Lost Omens, Rulebook, Starfinder Adventure Path, Starfinder Roleplaying Game Subscriber

    Guess I gotta read that last part, but, nope, not now. Prepping for this evening, in the best part of Curse of the Crimson Throne where the FUN beguns. Y'know, if you consider module two of the AP as fun. ^^
    Pathfinder Maps, Pathfinder Accessories Subscriber; Pathfinder Roleplaying Game Charter Superscriber; Starfinder Charter Superscriber
    Asethskyr wrote:

    Should probably add a mature content warning on this adventure. When they say "sadistic serial murderer" they mean "makes Curse of Strand look like Candyland".

    ** spoiler omitted **

    So I guess you didn't pay attention to the table of contents page?

    Pathfinder Maps, Pathfinder Accessories Subscriber; Pathfinder Roleplaying Game Charter Superscriber; Starfinder Charter Superscriber
    Sporkedup wrote:
    JamieTH wrote:
    I have to say I find the name of the main villain... unfortunate, especially in combination with the City Watch theme.
    I found that approximately 0% coincidental.

    How so?

    Zaister wrote:
    Sporkedup wrote:
    JamieTH wrote:
    I have to say I find the name of the main villain... unfortunate, especially in combination with the City Watch theme.
    I found that approximately 0% coincidental.
    How so?

    That they found a way to name-drop

    Spoiler:
    Terry Pratchett
    ? Just seems like an homage, despite what the character actually is like in the AP.
    Silver Crusade
    1 person marked this as a favorite.

    Spoiler:
    A bunch of his Discworld novels concern the City watch, he even has one named Guards! Guards!.
    Pathfinder Maps, Pathfinder Accessories Subscriber; Pathfinder Roleplaying Game Charter Superscriber; Starfinder Charter Superscriber
    Rysky wrote:
    ** spoiler omitted **

    Ah ok, that makes sense, then. I never read more than his first two books many, many years ago and decided that that's not really a kind of fantasy I like.

    Exo-Guardians
    Zaister wrote:
    Asethskyr wrote:

    Should probably add a mature content warning on this adventure. When they say "sadistic serial murderer" they mean "makes Curse of Strand look like Candyland".

    ** spoiler omitted **

    So I guess you didn't pay attention to the table of contents page?

    The table of contents page warning isn't here on the store page, is it? It should be noted before purchase.

    Spoiler:
    The adventure goes well into X-Card territory in Chapter 4, much moreso than any other adventure they've published that I know of. Like the other person said, it's more Saw than Scooby Doo with the graphic descriptions of sadism.
    Silver Crusade
    2 people marked this as a favorite.

    It's at the beginning of the free Player's Guide.

    I mean, book 1 pretty much exactly pits them against

    Spoiler:
    H. H. Holmes, right?
    Exo-Guardians
    Rysky wrote:
    It's at the beginning of the free Player's Guide.

    That's great, but it should still be mentioned in this store page.

    Spoiler:
    "even a sadistic serial murderer" doesn't suggest that there's going to be around 20 pages of detailed depravity. The first three chapters aren't anything like the fourth.
    5 people marked this as a favorite.

    Finally got around to finish reading it through.

    First thought, in regards to this discussion at hand, this is not Saw levels much at all. It's intense, more Penny Dreadful than Supernatural, but almost all of it is very easily glossed over or rewritten as needed (and the AP itself offers a sidebar on exactly which points need some attention).

    But more importantly, this book absolutely rocks. The writing is great, the variety of encounters is terrific, and it feels absolutely connected to future events! That's my favorite bit. The last two first-books in APs seemed to be removable by design, but this one absolutely is dialed in from minute one. I really appreciate that.

    Between the heavily lawful elements of the campaign and the grotesque horror that apparently will be a part of it as well... I will have to work at what table I put together. But a good table for this literally feels like a whole level higher than Extinction Curse or Age of Ashes.

    If this quality keeps up, I see a future classic just started.
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