PC reader advice (um, no spoilers please... I think)

[Molech]

I have a problem and I'm hoping you can help.

I haven't been reading the STAP modules at all for two reasons: first, Isle of Dread was never a favorite (not a fan of dinosaurs), and second, I wanted to make sure none of the other gamers I know wanted to run it -- I'd like the chance to be a PC in it. So I've been avoiding inside info on it and skipping the material in Dungeon.

Well, that was all before the build up, and now the arrival of 149's "Enemy of My Enemies." I REALLY want to read this adventure. I'm dying here!

So... for those of you who are DMing it, or playing it, (or just reading it for vicarious evil DM fun), will reading this one adventure ruin it for me if I have the opportunity to join the campaign under another DM later on?

-W. E. Ray

[Kobold Lord]

Probably not. It'll probably take over a year before you get that far, and most groups seem to break up by then, especially when they haven't already been together a long time.

But why risk it? I assure you that no matter how cool the plot synopsis sounds, the adventure doesn't make much sense if you aren't familiar with the ones leading up to it. There are several two-page stat spreads for various NPCs, but if that's what you're into you can get that from the Demonomicon articles, the Fiendish Codeces, or many other sources.

[N1NJ4]

Avoid at all costs!

[Molech]

Thanks guys; it's always good to rely on others for a conscience!

[Grimtk1]

I would not read it. Especially if you want to play in the adventure. As someone who has been on both sides of adventures, it would ruin it for you as a PC.

sorry, but it is for the best.

[Oddball]

Not a big fan of dinos, dont worry there arent many. But there are enought to rip PCs in half. I am playing in the campaign and not running it. Played and ran the original and thought, "here we go again", but the Isle is just part of the story line. Overall it has been a challenging and frustrating experience. The group I am with is pretty novice and I have never liked playing above 12th level. Seems this campaign will force characters to be around 20th by the end and 6-10 is just fine by me. Combats at the higher levels are either 5 min or 5 hours long.

[Belfur]

I am playing in the STAP as a PC (just finished Bullywug Gambit), but I also read all the adventures, as the Dungeons are mine and I never anticipated to play in it as a PC (and I do not think I will be able to play in it up to the end). Although I know the overall story, it is quite fun anyway (although maybe only because it is the first time ever I can really play a PC from the beginning, DMed only before)...but of course if you want to have the real experience, do not read any part of the AP. By reading just one, you will know where everything will lead to, especially at such a late state. Even if you forget about the details, you will always know the outcome. So reading it will not prevent you from playing in the AP, but it will take away a big part of the fun for you.