Hello everyone. This is going to be my first post here on these boards, so be gentle. Names Stomphoof, you can call me Stomp, or Hoof, or Shiny Nut (take your pick).
I just bought the Pathfinder Core Rulebook a few days ago, joined up, and am I devouring the book at the moment. It seems very much like 3.5 D&D just improved (which I like) and I want to try my hand at the ruleset. However, I don't really have time during the week to get out of the house, and while I have tried OpenRPG / Skype gaming, it doesn't work for me.
I do however have alot of free time during the week at work (heheh) and would love to try my hand at Play by Post. I have never actually done it, so I am not sure exactly how it works. I wanted to send a Private Message to a DM to ask some questions but honestly I cannot figure out how to do that on these boards.
So anyway, I am looking for someone who is willing to help a newbie learn how to do this whole PBP thing, as well as help me figure out the bits of the Pathfinder System that I dont know yet (does the Core Book have setting information? I didn't notice it off hand)
Thanks in advance! *waves*
I need to pick out an avatar >.>
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Welcome to the boards, Stomphoof! I'm happy to answer any questions you might have.
A lot about PbP can be figured out by simply reading through one. At this link right here you can find a good example of a great PbP, led by (in my opinion) one of the better PbP GM's we have at this site.
To answer your question about setting information, the Core Rulebook does not have setting information (other than the list of Deities in the Cleric class entry, which is the same list found in the Paizo default setting, Golarion). Setting information can be found in the "World Guide to the Inner Sea", available at the Paizo.com website. The Pathfinder Wiki also has some good setting info.
There aren't private messages on this forum (sadly, in my estimation), but if you'd like to just drop questions into this thread, I'll do my best to answer them.
Welcome to the boards, Stomphoof! I'm happy to answer any questions you might have.
A lot about PbP can be figured out by simply reading through one. At this link right here you can find a good example of a great PbP, led by (in my opinion) one of the better PbP GM's we have at this site.
To answer your question about setting information, the Core Rulebook does not have setting information (other than the list of Deities in the Cleric class entry, which is the same list found in the Paizo default setting, Golarion). Setting information can be found in the "World Guide to the Inner Sea", available at the Paizo.com website. The Pathfinder Wiki also has some good setting info.
There aren't private messages on this forum (sadly, in my estimation), but if you'd like to just drop questions into this thread, I'll do my best to answer them.
Thanks for the welcome you guys.
What are these Traits I keep hearing about? Are they something that is in the Advanced Players guide? Should I pick that up or can I stick with the Core book for now?
Hopefully I can find a PBP game once I figure out what the devil I am doing with the system. Alot of the changes to Sorcerers (my fav class in 3rd Ed) make me very interested in trying one! I am going to go check out the Wiki and that thread you linked me as well :)
If you have any tips or info you can give me otherwise please feel free
Hey has anyone officially ranked the PBP GMs?
;)
I do agree with that assessment of AK (link above), I do think there are both some established DMs and a few newcomers to PBP DMing....That look promising....
Not sure where I fit on either scale.....
I am still learning things as I go...Likely an advertisement will appear in gamer connect recruiting for a PBP. I say make a (or two or three)character now! make him/her with a couple of different point buys, do the traits, feats and background.
The recruiting threads open suddenly and spots fill quickly!
Sometimes you will not be selected but can re-apply!
Still have no idea what Traits are or where to find em but thanks for the idea.
I assume you guys mean make a character via that Forum Alias thing? Never seen that before so its new to me.
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Welcome to the boards!
It's all pretty much been covered by above posters! If you are looking for just advice or have questions on the game itself you can always post in the Advice section.
Kenderkin has it right, posts fill up quick. If you go with pre-gen some characters i would suggest using the 20 point buy method as it is the one i've noticed predominatly being used.
I'm currently in only one PBP and running another one with the Pathfinder rules though its in my homebrew realm.
Another site you can try is the Pathfinder SRD. Just google it. Sorry I can't link it at the moment because my work comp won't let me visit the site. :(
And like Jeremizah i'd be happy to help answer any questions you may have. :D
You'll find most on this forums to be very friendly and helpful.
Traits can be found (I believe) on the SRD site and yes they are located in the APG.
Here's the one i'm running, feel free to have a read
EDIT: Making a character via the Alias, yes. :D
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Stomp hoof
Traits are like 1/2 feats. There are different sources - there was a free download, most books have a few and especially Adventure Path player guides - also free downloads - come with them.
It is up to the GM if you get them - but most common is 2 traits.
I'm one of the new GMs here on the boards. One of the established players said my GM style is 'different' - so it can be good to have a read with several GMs.
How to get into a game - look often for openings and post once one is available. Once you are in - get a character quickly - and read the thread of your game at least once a day and post, post, post.
Nothing worse as five players waiting two days for the last person sending in his move.
Enjoy
Thod
Edit: what I should have added. Traits have not only a bonus but more importantly a story attached. You start with 300 gp extra because "insert story. Or you have better I itiative because ...
Stomp hoof
Traits are like 1/2 feats. There are different sources - there was a free download, most books have a few and especially Adventure Path player guides - also free downloads - come with them.
It is up to the GM if you get them - but most common is 2 traits.
I'm one of the new GMs here on the boards. One of the established players said my GM style is 'different' - so it can be good to have a read with several GMs.
How to get into a game - look often for openings and post once one is available. Once you are in - get a character quickly - and read the thread of your game at least once a day and post, post, post.
Nothing worse as five players waiting two days for the last person sending in his move.
Enjoy
Thod
Edit: what I should have added. Traits have not only a bonus but more importantly a story attached. You start with 300 gp extra because "insert story. Or you have better I itiative because ...
Interesting bit about traits..and on that SRD I found Ratkin! Do DMs allow those 3rd Party Races frequently or no?
I have a thing for playing Rat people. I blame Deekin the Kobold from NWN (Kobolds and Ratmen are favorite races of mine).
I am reading 2 threads now for the PBP. Both seem interesting. Thanks for the help thus far folks :)
Why yes there is such a game....
I am currently playing an oakling in it....
If you post on the link above KC will likely let you play lieterally whatever!
Haha thats an odd sounding game...dont think I will mess with that for my first PBP :P
There is alot of Fan Content on the SRD...like the Adopted Trait. How odd.
EDIT: Note to self, make an Alchemist. Bombs are fun.
Hi Stormhoof
As a longtime gamer but only very recent pbp gamer I can heartily recommend it! Advice I would have is get to know your preferred class and their options (i'm running Skane Ingvarssonn an Ulfen Shield Fighter in my first pbp and "Keelhaul" a half orc rogue in a pirate flavoured pbp that's just in its infancy) - both games very different and hugely enjoyable.
To manage it all I'd definately advise bookmarking, game threads, your character profile and OOC threads as well.
All the advice you've been given is very sound - have a read and look through some of the pbp threads, get used to the way they run, etiquette regarding use of tags etc (some DM's like bolded speech etc) and then just jump in.
I'd also create some "framework" characters... your ratman, your alchemist... your ratman alchemist lol, so you've basic builds to work with when submitting a concept or character to be considered for play...
Best of luck - enjoy and hope to meet you in a pbp in the future!
Hi Stormhoof
As a longtime gamer but only very recent pbp gamer I can heartily recommend it! Advice I would have is get to know your preferred class and their options (i'm running Skane Ingvarssonn an Ulfen Shield Fighter in my first pbp and "Keelhaul" a half orc rogue in a pirate flavoured pbp that's just in its infancy) - both games very different and hugely enjoyable.
To manage it all I'd definately advise bookmarking, game threads, your character profile and OOC threads as well.
All the advice you've been given is very sound - have a read and look through some of the pbp threads, get used to the way they run, etiquette regarding use of tags etc (some DM's like bolded speech etc) and then just jump in.
I'd also create some "framework" characters... your ratman, your alchemist... your ratman alchemist lol, so you've basic builds to work with when submitting a concept or character to be considered for play...
Best of luck - enjoy and hope to meet you in a pbp in the future!
This would be the Ratman Alchemist! You read my mind sir.
Umm I filled out the profile with a character sheet. No background. Can you guys take a look at my profile for this guy and let me know if I am missing anything other then the Background?
Just under the last post on this thread
You will see
BBCode tags you can use show
click on show....
learn to use those tags!
[b] is to start bold
will let you set your dice
to close a command [/ ] by putting whatever the opener was....
Let me show you using a slightly incorrect code
Falchion attack
{dice}1d20+6{/dice}replace the { with [ and it will roll the dice and give a result!
I know most BBC codes, the dice one is new...lets try it
Oh hey it actually does roll! :O I was wondering how that would work out in posting. Very nice!
I got my first character updated. It looks pretty similar to most peoples. I got spoiler tags for my appearance / backstory, and some stuff at the bottom about how I got the stats.
I think I am ready to find a game! Thanks for the help everyone!
I'm kinda in the same boat. I was going to play one for the first time, but it appears to have fizzled before it began.
Welcome Stomphoof! Finding a game requires creativity, dedication, and some luck, but if you find a good one, it is very rewarding. There are some excellent players on these boards. I've been real lucky, DMing a 4000+ post game and playing in a 2000+ post one. Any help you need, let me know.
To be honest, the format is usually- DM advertises for game, people apply, then DM picks from a whole bunch of players; its a sellers market... Advertising yourself as a player works sometimes but its better to just check out the games currently recruiting.
I actually wasnt trying to go after a specific DM honestly.
Just trying to get some help in general, which you all have provided in spades.
Now to play the waiting game >.>
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Good that others have jumped in to help here - thanks, folks. I love this community.
One thing I'll tell you, Stomp, is that the more detailed the backstory of the character, the better your chances of getting in. DM's like to see a players commitment to their character as more than a summation of various numbers, and a good backstory really shows them two things - both your commitment to the process, and an example of your writing ability and style.
So, that's my 2gp.
Good that others have jumped in to help here - thanks, folks. I love this community.
One thing I'll tell you, Stomp, is that the more detailed the backstory of the character, the better your chances of getting in. DM's like to see a players commitment to their character as more than a summation of various numbers, and a good backstory really shows them two things - both your commitment to the process, and an example of your writing ability and style.
So, that's my 2gp.
Well my Rat Character (this is his Alias) has a Backstory and Appearence down on it now.
I am not a super wordsmith or anything and I really don't know too much about the world so I went with what I could cobble together :P
New Quick Question:
Is it bad form to post in an OOC Thread for a game I am not a part of if I want to thank those who are playing IN that game for the really awesome story that I am reading?
Since I cannot PM them or anything.
And yes I want to thank them because these PBP Games are giving me something to read while I am trapped in my work hell :P
Sure as long as its respectable. For example:
"Sorry to thread jack here but I just wanted to say i've been reading along with the game thread and it's one hell of a game!"
Something of that sort. Compliments are never bad! :D
+1 on the compliments - for DM's and players its good to know your story is followed and appreciated :)
While I don't advocate trying to track all the pbp, the OOC threads will also give you a heads up on if someone's dropped out and if the group are seeking to recruit a replacement (means you can get the drop on character creation with regard game requisites [traits, point buy, etc] and of course what type of character they'll be looking for)
my 2 runes worth
Sure as long as its respectable. For example:
"Sorry to thread jack here but I just wanted to say i've been reading along with the game thread and it's one hell of a game!"
Something of that sort. Compliments are never bad! :D
+1 on the compliments - for DM's and players its good to know your story is followed and appreciated :)
While I don't advocate trying to track all the pbp, the OOC threads will also give you a heads up on if someone's dropped out and if the group are seeking to recruit a replacement (means you can get the drop on character creation with regard game requisites [traits, point buy, etc] and of course what type of character they'll be looking for)
my 2 runes worth
Thanks for answering the questions again :)
*runs off to go read more*
If I think of any more I will just add em here later haha.
A quick post in either the PbP or OOC thread is fine in my book, as long as its not intrusive.
Oh I would not post in the actual PBP thread. That would be...odd.
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Its (usually) acceptable to make a single OOC post in the PbP just to 'dot' the thread. Threads you have posted in have a little black dot next to them, so they are much easier to find (they are also the only ones that show up when you use the 'focus' button- handy when you lurk and play far too many games...)
Its (usually) acceptable to make a single OOC post in the PbP just to 'dot' the thread. Threads you have posted in have a little black dot next to them, so they are much easier to find (they are also the only ones that show up when you use the 'focus' button- handy when you lurk and play far too many games...)
So thats what Dotting means. Now I got it!
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Its (usually) acceptable to make a single OOC post in the PbP just to 'dot' the thread. Threads you have posted in have a little black dot next to them, so they are much easier to find (they are also the only ones that show up when you use the 'focus' button- handy when you lurk and play far too many games...)
What is this 'focus' button you speak of?
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Its (usually) acceptable to make a single OOC post in the PbP just to 'dot' the thread. Threads you have posted in have a little black dot next to them, so they are much easier to find (they are also the only ones that show up when you use the 'focus' button- handy when you lurk and play far too many games...)What is this 'focus' button you speak of?
I've never noticed the Focus button either. Thanks!
Stomp, there are always exceptions depending on a particular GM's preferences. However, I believe you will typically find on this board that most GMs are running Pathfinder APs, Pathfinder modules, 3rd party Pathfinder compatiable adventures or Pathfinder homebrew campaigns. For most of the Pathfinder APs and modules, I have seen the GMs ask for races from the core rules only.
To get your feet wet, you may want to look for PbPs being offered for a module. At PbP rates, these can usually be completed within 3 or 4 months. Typically an AP would take years to complete. Starting with a module would give you an idea if this is the thing for you.
If you are interested in joining a Pathfinder AP game, you may want to prepare in advance of seeing a posting. You can download most Player's Guides for the APs on this website. The Player's Guides give high level discussion of the flavor and themes of adventure, and include traits specific to that adventure. The traits provided are intended to provide hooks to have your character drawn into the storyline, and usually a GM will ask that you take one trait from that list and one from the generic list. You may want to prepare a potential player for each AP that interests you, so that when one is posted you can present the character quickly for consideration.
Make sure any characters you design in advance for an AP have a good background story and strong motivation for the AP. Some GMs will post with a first come, first serve approach; the first players to post interest are accepted in the game. Most will ask prospective players to post a character concept, and at the end of a deadline (typically around a week), they will select the 4 to 6 players they want to invite to the game based on the character concepts. Having a strong concept and background can help make you competitive for this sort of open call. The additional benefit is you are looking at a character you will probably be playing for years, so make sure you like him/her!
Most GMs ask for core races, core and APG classes, 2 traits, 20 point builds and average starting gold. You'd be pretty save building AP characters with that criteria. If a GM posts a different preference, say a 25 point build, you can quickly adjust the character for submission.
Just my 2 cp.
Welcome to the boards!
I usually tend to pick players I either already know, or are recommended by players I know or who have a high post count. For me one of the most important qualities of a player is activity (the standard of roleplaying abilities is very high on the boards anyway).
p.s. thx for the focus button tip^^
+1 on the focus button also Alexander - thanks man.
I've never noticed the Focus button either. Thanks!
Stomp, there are always exceptions depending on a particular GM's preferences. However, I believe you will typically find on this board that most GMs are running Pathfinder APs, Pathfinder modules, 3rd party Pathfinder compatiable adventures or Pathfinder homebrew campaigns. For most of the Pathfinder APs and modules, I have seen the GMs ask for races from the core rules only.
To get your feet wet, you may want to look for PbPs being offered for a module. At PbP rates, these can usually be completed within 3 or 4 months. Typically an AP would take years to complete. Starting with a module would give you an idea if this is the thing for you.
If you are interested in joining a Pathfinder AP game, you may want to prepare in advance of seeing a posting. You can download most Player's Guides for the APs on this website. The Player's Guides give high level discussion of the flavor and themes of adventure, and include traits specific to that adventure. The traits provided are intended to provide hooks to have your character drawn into the storyline, and usually a GM will ask that you take one trait from that list and one from the generic list. You may want to prepare a potential player for each AP that interests you, so that when one is posted you can present the character quickly for consideration.
Make sure any characters you design in advance for an AP have a good background story and strong motivation for the AP. Some GMs will post with a first come, first serve approach; the first players to post interest are accepted in the game. Most will ask prospective players to post a character concept, and at the end of a deadline (typically around a week), they will select the 4 to 6 players they want to invite to the game based on the character concepts. Having a strong concept and background can help make you competitive for this sort of open call. The additional benefit is you are looking at a character you will probably be playing for years, so make sure...
So what you are suggesting is create characters specific to the Adventure Paths? Interesting.
I may just make some generic "fit anywhere" people who with a few changes can fit into any setting. Just make em come from some isolated or small village and bam, it works.
Dwarf Barbarian for sure.
Human Monk
Another Alchemist of some kind (A mutagen specialist!)
Half-Orc Cleric
Those should fit the bill. A fighter type, a dex/wis based fighter, 1 arcane, and a divine!
*goes off to make stuff*
Hey Stomphoof, DM Darkthorne is recruiting for a game. Read the character guidelines and give it a shot. Good luck!
Hey Stomphoof, DM Darkthorne is recruiting for a game. Read the character guidelines and give it a shot. Good luck!
Yea I saw that, posted an inquiry regarding a human monk. Hopefully it gets his interest.
For those who might care:
I got approved for the DM Darkthorne game, so when it gets up and running my Human Monk will be there!
Yay first game wooooo!
I also made a Half Orc Cleric for fun so if I get a chance I will throw him in somewhere. Next up is a Half Elven Sorcerer, using one of the Bloodlines from the APG.
I am gonna make a few characters that can be slotted in anywhere I think :D