Just wanted to let everyone know that I'm having issues with my internet connection. If all goes as planned I should be reconnected by sometime early tomorrow afternoon. Sorry to have this happen just as things are starting to heat up for the Red group (don't worry, Blues, you're nearly there.) I'll get the ball rolling again just as soon as my connection is back up and running.
Again, apologies for the delay.
*Having me generate initiative rolls for the whole party as well as the opponents, so we have one coherent list to work with at the start of an encounter.
I find this is generally the best way to handle it - things start smooth and tend to stay that way. Someone mentioned group initiative, and I'm fairly ambivalent about that - I've only used it in a Virtual Tabletop format, and there it just caused a worse mess.
Honestly, it depends on the players - sometimes people will be snappy with their posts, other times it's best to just take it on a first-come first-served basis (or to have everybody post when they can then sort it out later).
*If we get bogged down waiting for someone to post, I can always take temporary control of a character and run actions for that PC until the player gets back in the game.
*If the previous idea is implemented, I'd probably ask for an initial action, followed by probable actions/attitudes a PC would adopt, so that any time I take control of a PC, it will be more apt to act in a manner appropriate to the player's wishes.
Another DM had us write up tactics in our profile (sample here), which I think is a pretty good supplement to these suggestions. It also helps if you need to NPC the player for more than a single combat for whatever reason.
*In my prior PBP, I had attack and damage rolls done simultaneously to speed things up.
I have never not rolled these simultaneously, but then I've never played an actual face to face game.
Another trick I've used is that when there's a bunch of mooks (generic bad guys in a significant number, e.g. skeletons, stormtroopers, whatever), you share the HP and AC of the enemies. This helps facilitate multiple players posting without you needing to update who's wounded, who's fallen, etc. Much handier than having to respond to each player's post.
Just wanted to let everyone know that I'm having issues with my internet connection. If all goes as planned I should be reconnected by sometime early tomorrow afternoon. Sorry to have this happen just as things are starting to heat up for the Red group (don't worry, Blues, you're nearly there.) I'll get the ball rolling again just as soon as my connection is back up and running.
Again, apologies for the delay.
No worries, man. We're not going anywhere. I'll be offline most of the day myself - having a "procedure" done this morning and then will be resting for most of the day. Should be back online tonight.
It appears we've lost Rizzym/Gildin from the blue group. Over two weeks without a post now.
It's looking like the next couple of weekends will see me not being able to post, just as a heads up.
Also, back on the 'making PbPs run smooth' topic, I'm curious if you're planning on doing maps. Even a simple Google doc scrawl (check my profile for an example I'm using in my Crypt of the Everflame game) helps to keep everything straight even if it's as simple as getting a good idea of where everybody is in relation to each other.
No worries, I'll keep you caught up with the rest of the group as needs be.
As for maps, I'll see what I can do.
So for future reference, I think a little organization with buffing spells is required. For short term spells, the caster should note the round it was cast on, and post what round the spell will expire. As long as everyone takes note, this should keep people advised of their bonuses from round to round.
For longer duration spells, post the duration and I'll keep the party advised as to what's still in effect and for how long.
I hope the out-of-combat roleplay is not going to fast for everybody. I considered responding to the thread again, but had already done so at least twice. I understand everyone cannot post as frequently, and feel that posting a little too often can cut off other PCs a bit. Does anybody have any thoughts on this?
The posting frequency is fine with me. I would be posting more but Jinjer is unconscious. :)
I normally can post in the early mornings and late evenings and on weekends.
Same, 'cept for the unconscious part. :7)
I'm online pretty much all day m-f weekends are a tossup.
It looks like we are splitting into two groups right now. The longshanks and napping will head to town at the hustle. The others will follow with the captured nocturne, possably using the bat.
Is that correct?
It will take us about 5-6 min to reach town and the bats about 2-3. So I really hope they did something when they saw the bat signal.
;7)
So I really hope they did something when they saw the bat signal.;7)
Nice! Wish we had a "bat phone" so we could make a direct call! :P
So I really hope they did something when they saw the bat signal.;7)Nice! Wish we had a "bat phone" so we could make a direct call! :P
Give me a couple of levels....
I'm willing to admit that I may be the cause of this concern being mentioned. I am really enjoying my pbp experience so far, and I sometime have some hairbrained ideas pop up in the middle of the day that I have to write down and share. I'll try to restrain myself so that other people don't feel smothered, but that was always my thing with dnd; to try something outrageous and see if it works.
I'm willing to admit that I may be the cause of this concern being mentioned. I am really enjoying my pbp experience so far, and I sometime have some hairbrained ideas pop up in the middle of the day that I have to write down and share. I'll try to restrain myself so that other people don't feel smothered, but that was always my thing with dnd; to try something outrageous and see if it works.
I've heard far more insane.
"I hug her"
Words coming from one of my players in a viking game directed at his 500 year old 20th level lich cleric estranged daughter shortly after she described how he absolutely despised him for allowing her to suffer the past few centuries believing him in hell while she gave her soul to dark powers. Needless to say she was a bit cross to find him reincarnated and having spent that time drinkign and wenching in valhalla.
This was from the same player who brought us.
"I jump in the sea of ghouls for a swim"
"I jump in front of the godly power beam in an attempt to usurp the gods power."
and others.
I'm willing to admit that I may be the cause of this concern being mentioned. I am really enjoying my pbp experience so far, and I sometime have some hairbrained ideas pop up in the middle of the day that I have to write down and share. I'll try to restrain myself so that other people don't feel smothered, but that was always my thing with dnd; to try something outrageous and see if it works.
This is where the really good ideas come from. This is how you end up playing keep away with the soul item of a lich. Crazy is fun so long as (most) everyone survives.
The pace is a little bit fast for me, but not too bad - generally when I do sit down, I have enough free time to read a fair bit.
If things get to fast-paced for anyone, let me know. Also, if your plans for a particular action should be drastically changed for any reason, I have no problem with a reasonable call of "backsies."
I will be out of town the weekend of June 3-5 - I will try to check in on Saturday/Sunday morning but will likely be "unplugged" for the weekend.
Alrighty then. Oh, I suppose I should check and see if any of my players are going to be at Paizocon the following weekend. Three of my hometown player are, so its already going to be a slow weekend for me.
*bump*
Mmmmm kind of an interesting little interaction here.
Just a reminder - heading to Charlotte this morning to get my comic book geekness on! You boys and girls play nice! I'll try to check the posts in the mornings...if I can see straight. :)
No problem. I'll keep Jinjer on the straight and narrow and make sure she only eats every the heart of every other nocturne she kills. :) Have fun!
Mmmmm kind of an interesting little interaction here.
There's been some interesting character interaction in both threads so far.
Yeah. I'm really liking the ecclectic group of developing personalities.
So riding order
Jinger and the flame-haired on in the lead. Followed by Magnus then me then who?
I'm alright with that. I think Shadowborn asked for pairs and single file though so it would look like this (If I understand everyone's desires properly)
- Jinjer and Tarrana
- Gaius and Magnus
- Stilgar and Brogdar
Then it would be:
- Jinjer
- Magnus
- Tarrana
- Stilgar
- Gaius
- Brogdar
Thumbs up for approval.
I'm alright with that. I think Shadowborn asked for pairs and single file though so it would look like this (If I understand everyone's desires properly)
- Jinjer and Tarrana
- Gaius and Magnus
- Stilgar and Brogdar
Then it would be:
- Jinjer
- Magnus
- Tarrana
- Stilgar
- Gaius
- Brogdar
Thumbs up for approval.
I'm good.
I'm fine with rearguard.
Im not opposed.
Gaius will take Brogdar's position when in double file.
Sounds like that's a go, except for Stilgar. I'll use these unless he has any reason to adjust the order.
Had a fantastic Brain-storm today regarding the present situation in the campaign, but I'll need some help pulling it off.
My question, O great DM is this:
Am I (the character) aware of the abilities of my teammates?
Translated: Am I (The player) permitted to look at my teammates' character sheets?
Had a fantastic Brain-storm today regarding the present situation in the campaign, but I'll need some help pulling it off.
My question, O great DM is this:
Am I (the character) aware of the abilities of my teammates?Translated: Am I (The player) permitted to look at my teammates' character sheets?
I don't think you, the character, would be aware of my abilities though i do not mind you, the player, looking at my sheet. You have seen Gaius do magic, the warning, dancing lights, so you, the character, know that at least.
I recently put out two resumes for freelance work to LPjr Design and Gamer Ingenuity. Within hours of each I was offered work. Work that will keep me busy through the next year or so.
This means that for all intents and purposes my posting might be a bit spotty here and there as I'll have some rather painful deadlines I have to meet for pathfinder work.
I don't think you, the character, would be aware of my abilities though i do not mind you, the player, looking at my sheet. You have seen Gaius do magic, the warning, dancing lights, so you, the character, know that at least.Had a fantastic Brain-storm today regarding the present situation in the campaign, but I'll need some help pulling it off.
My question, O great DM is this:
Am I (the character) aware of the abilities of my teammates?Translated: Am I (The player) permitted to look at my teammates' character sheets?
He has the right approach, I think. Since Magnus isn't well-acquainted with Gaius, you'll have to separate character knowledge from player knowledge. With characters like Stilgar and Brodgar, they'd be more or less aware of the capabilities of the other, having a pre-existing relationship.
I recently put out two resumes for freelance work to LPjr Design and Gamer Ingenuity. Within hours of each I was offered work. Work that will keep me busy through the next year or so.
This means that for all intents and purposes my posting might be a bit spotty here and there as I'll have some rather painful deadlines I have to meet for pathfinder work.
Congratulations! It's summer, so I'm already expecting some dry spells where posting is concerned. If you want to give me a general overview of things you'd like Tarrana to be doing during the game, I'll use that when you're incommunicado. Otherwise, I'll just NPC her to the best of my abilities.
I recently put out two resumes for freelance work to LPjr Design and Gamer Ingenuity. Within hours of each I was offered work. Work that will keep me busy through the next year or so.
This means that for all intents and purposes my posting might be a bit spotty here and there as I'll have some rather painful deadlines I have to meet for pathfinder work.
I second what Shadowborn said; Congrats! My summer job is nothing if not consistent. Anyone coming through Saskatchewan, feel free to visit Fort Walsh and ask for a tour by the great-great-grandson of the Sergeant Major.
Well, it's been about eighteen days since I've had a post from Nitnat/Oroupah, so it looks like I'll be putting that character on ice unless they turn back up.
So that leaves four left in blue and the original six left in red.
Well, it's been about eighteen days since I've had a post from Nitnat/Oroupah, so it looks like I'll be putting that character on ice unless they turn back up.
So that leaves four left in blue and the original six left in red.
Haven't heard from Nitnat in my game either...which is too bad, since his character was pivotal in the group. That is two players who are gone and I'm ready to shut 'er down.
I had that happen the last time I tried running this game. This time I ensured that no one character would take a pivotal position early on.
So how was the comic-con?
I had that happen the last time I tried running this game. This time I ensured that no one character would take a pivotal position early on.
So how was the comic-con?
Heroes Con was much fun! Picked up some good books and found a book I've been hunting for about 25 years! It was a rag copy, but a copy nonetheless. Added a few key issues to my collection and bought a book or two for my son.
I ended my Paizo game this morning - the group was at the end of the battle with the BBEG, so I just went ahead and wrapped it up, listed a bunch of magic items and treasure for them to divide, added up XP, and called it a game.
I also dropped out of a game on RPoL this morning. There had been some griping about my character and another player's character taking "the high road" by not killing entangled creatures (owlbears). My character was a fighter/cleric of Kord and didn't see any glory in killing defenseless creatures. He was eager to tangle with them, but once the druids entangled them, he felt a little let down.
Some other players took offense at this and were quite verbal about it. I responded as my own lovable self...(cough)...and learned there are KIDS in the game. So...I decided that it was time for me to move on.
So, I have one more game to finish up - which I will do by month's end, and then I can focus on playing your game - until Jinjer dies a horrible death - and working on my 1E "L" Series game I'm going to be starting in August on RPoL.
You got any summer plans?
Some other players took offense at this and were quite verbal about it. I responded as my own lovable self...(cough)...and learned there are KIDS in the game.Bloodthirsty little beggers apparently.
You got any summer plans?
Nothing terribly exciting. Taking part in SlutWalk Spokane this weekend. Getting my entry for the Pathfinder Chronicles fiction contest finished, then its on to my submissions for Wayfinder #6. I usually don't start quite this early, but since I found out what the theme was, I was inspired and hit on a few great ideas.
Oh! I instituted a house rule in my regular game and wanted to bounce it off you folks and see what you thought.
I made a skill called Athletics (Str based) and rolled Climb, Jump, and Swim into it. I kept jump in Acrobatics as well; either skill can be used for determining jumps. If it strikes everyone's fancy, I can institute it here. Or not. Either way is fine with me.
Looks interesting - I was about to ask how it was different from Dodge but after thinking a minute, I guess it is quite different indeed. You could also include Run and some type of Grapple in there.
But you probably want to keep it simple. I like it.
I would think that it's a very different skill-set needed for these tasks and equipment that provides a bonus to a skill check would be hard to visualize in this case. That being said, my character probably wouldn't suffer if the skills were combined.
It will make barbarians fighters rogues and bards more buff but that's no skin off my nose. To quote Paul Simon "I have no opinion about this."
It works in Auric's favor, so I'm happy to use it. ;)
Even though it's not perfect from a "simulationist" standpoint, I like almost anything that simplifies the game and whittles down the skill list.
Well, when it came to the Acrobatics skill when PF was first released, I was thrilled...except for the jump part. I just couldn't wrap my brain around Dex being the key attribute for height and distance on a jump. So looking at the skill list, it seemed reasonable to take the Str based skills and roll them into one. I can see where timing of a jump could be crucial, but its really leg strength and momentum that get you where you want to go.
At this point, I'm still undecided myself, though if I do decide to institute it, I'm fairly certain it won't break the game.
I don't have much further to add about the Athletics skill that hasn't been said. I do recall James Jacobs saying the rationale for leaving it in is that Climb and Swim have associated movement speeds and that a fish being a good climber never quite sat right with them.
Personally I'm fine with it either way - it's mostly about how simulationist you want it to be. As far as heroic fantasy goes, heroes being competent in all three sits right with me.