I ran this with my IRL group when they were starting out, since most of them had never played a tabletop RPG before (the only one who had had bad experience with 4e). I found it worked especially well with those who'd played video games, because it kind of mimics the tutorials there that teach you how to play.
The basic concept is that Skippy (or whoever) is the local retired adventurer who is willing to teach new adventurers how to survive in combat. It goes through attacks, AC, saves, different combat maneuvers, that sort of thing. Covers rules on flanking and such. I was going to include sections on cover, concealment, etc. but I also wanted to get on with the adventure, so I moved on before covering that.
Posting this here because I saw a thread about someone wanting to learn the rules of combat, etc. I was wondering, has anyone else run something like this? How did it go, what did you do, what would you change? And, do you think this is the sort of thing that could be feasibly accomplished in Play-by-Post?
Thanks to all!
Excellent idea!
I have no idea how that works in a play by post, but I will definitely use it for new players in my tabletops.
bump? Anybody else?
I love the idea. I've been handing newer players a list of their options in combat (down to every manuever, feat and magic item) along with an assessment of what it does and its effectiveness. A little overwhelming at first but it's saved us having to crack open the rulebook mid combat so far.
I like your idea better. I recommend covering the stealth rules (along with cover and concealment, probably with a big scary monster like a troll that th PCs couldnt possibly go toe to toe with, simultaneously teaching them that its okay to run away from the troll), attacks of opportunity... maybe even a rudimentary "magic duel" with counter-spelling and a basic introduction to first level magic.
Also yes it can definately be accomplished by Play by Post. It's a great medium that gives everyone involved that time to pour just that little bit extra in...