First time GM Q: do I need to prepare stories for the NPCs referenced in the AP1-6 Gazetter?

[kwasko]

By which I mean people in the Spike, the Eye, the Armada, etc..?

Or is that the sort of thing the books will flesh out on their own in books 2, 3, and so forth?

Equally, what if my PCs want to explore these areas? Just wing it?

Any advice would be appreciated! Feeling a bit overwhelmed atm.

[mouthymerc]

Stuff like that is usually left to individual GMs in order to tailor it their games. Some people will need more info and some will need less.

[Jimbles the Mediocre]

As a new GM, you should stick to what you're comfortable with. Don't feel the obligation to cram every little bit of lore into the story. Instead, use the lore to give the impression that the world of Absalom Station exists even where the PCs aren't looking. Allow them to explore, and if they do, wing it a little, building from the material you've got. Do the PCs try to find a bar in the Arms? Have them stumble upon the Click Clack Club - just flip to the Gazetter, give them a brief description, and allow them to feel it out for themselves. It may take a few sessions, but you'll soon become comfortable with your own balance of prepared material / spontaneous creation.

Most groups won't experience most of the Gazetter locations, and that's okay. Just pick and choose whatever you need at the moment.

[kwasko]

Thanks, gang! I appreciate the info. First session next week--will report back.