Last Minute Preparation

[UBU Gamesoc]

Hey all,

We have been planning to run Pathfinder Society for a little while, with our first session being tomorrow. But I've only just registered the event online. We've already advertised it to our members which isn't an issue, but we can only reserve 10 cards automatically and I'm not sure if I'll get a response for more in time.
Given how late the notice is, is there anything we can do? If we run out of reserved numbers, what options do we have other than saying they can't play in that session? (Although we only have 2 GM's, so parties of above 5 might not work anyway?)
Addittionally, What do I need to take to the first session, so far I'm planning to take along:

• Pathfinder Roleplaying Game Core Rulebook
  
• Pathfinder Roleplaying Game Bestiary 1
  
• Pathfinder Society Field Guide
  

along with assorted other PF RPG books. Additionally I plan to print off and take

• A stack of blank character sheets
  
• A stack of chronicle sheets
  
• The first intro adventure we're running
  

What else do I need? Sorry for asking this so late.

[Dave the Barbarian]

In the morning, download another set of 10 PFS membership cards. That way new players will have a number. I also like to take a couple copies of the pre-gen characters for new players.

[Lamplighter]

Dave the Barbarian wrote:

In the morning, download another set of 10 PFS membership cards. That way new players will have a number. I also like to take a couple copies of the pre-gen characters for new players.

Not having numbers isn't that big a deal - as long as you send the players to paizo.com top register, and then follow up to get their numbers after the fact, you're fine.

You can also get the folks you know to register themselves in advance, to save the pre-registered cards for the folks who are new to your group.

Congrats on needing more than 10 new players cards your first time out!

Scott

[Nickademus42]

UBU Gamesoc wrote:

If we run out of reserved numbers, what options do we have other than saying they can't play in that session?

Just to add to what the others said, a player can always play the session without a number. Never turn someone away for that. You'll just have to wait to report the session until you get the number from them. But while Paizo would like you to do that soon after, there isn't a real deadline on when you need to report so it's not that critical.

A player can also play without a character with the pre-generated characters that Dave mentioned. The nice thing is that even though you play the pregen, they can still apply the chronicle to their first character when they make it. (They just once again have to get you the PFS number for the character for you to report the session.)

Have fun. :D

[Dave the Barbarian]

Considering you want to be prepared, go with the numbers. Then reporting the sessions will be easier. At our Conventions, we burn through tons of numbers and it allows you to easily report the session and get the new player started. Our VC in Denver always has a ton of numbers and he reports the sessions within a day of completion which is really appreciated.

I appreciate you wanting to be completely prepared, I am the same way. The pre-gens have been key in letting new players jump in and try it out.

At our local shops, you can get a pre-gen and a card as a walk in and be welcome to give it a shot.

Never turn a player away. Have a great time!

[UBU Gamesoc]

Thanks very much for the advice guys. My plan was to go for the "play the game first, worry about the paperwork later" approach so that fits well. Also as a side note, I created this account separate to my personal Paizo account for the student society that's running the games. I take it there's no reason I shouldn't use this to register and report all of the events we run (as opposed to my personal one)?

[Drogon]

UBU Gamesoc wrote:

Thanks very much for the advice guys. My plan was to go for the "play the game first, worry about the paperwork later" approach so that fits well. Also as a side note, I created this account separate to my personal Paizo account for the student society that's running the games. I take it there's no reason I shouldn't use this to register and report all of the events we run (as opposed to my personal one)?

So long as you register and report them, there is no reason I can think of.

[Dragnmoon]

UBU Gamesoc wrote:

I take it there's no reason I shouldn't use this to register and report all of the events we run (as opposed to my personal one)?

Here is the problem with that. Paizo does not like people have 2 accounts, and if they discover you have 2, they will most likely delete one.

[clarence garrett]

Scott Young wrote:

Dave the Barbarian wrote:

In the morning, download another set of 10 PFS membership cards. That way new players will have a number. I also like to take a couple copies of the pre-gen characters for new players.

Not having numbers isn't that big a deal - as long as you send the players to paizo.com top register, and then follow up to get their numbers after the fact, you're fine.

You can also get the folks you know to register themselves in advance, to save the pre-registered cards for the folks who are new to your group.

Congrats on needing more than 10 new players cards your first time out!

Scott

+1

[Don Walker]

I realize this is probably too late to help in your game today, but in addition to the items you list in your original post I suggest you bring:

• A printed copy of the current Guide to PFS Organized Play
• A few extra copies of Chapter 2 Character Creation
• Several copies of Pathfinder Character Traits
• Digital, internet or a printed copy of the PFS FAQ and Additional Resources
• PC/GM table tent cards (3x5 index cards will work)
• Copies of the Pregens
• A Map of the Inner Sea
• A tracking sheet
• A blank flipmat and markers
• Extra dice, pencils, pens, minis
• Business cards with email and website to your local group

Other nice-to-haves:

• Advanced Players Guide (some scenarios refer to it without including full descriptions for feats, spells, etc)
• Seeker of Secrets
• Inner Sea World Guide or Gazetteer
• Sissors or portable paper cutter

[Dave the Barbarian]

Excellent list Don. A true gaming professional! I always like to be prepared for everything too.