ok here is what I got.
not the most optimized character, but a concept I wanted to give a try.
image
NG, Male, Human, (Azlanti)
Scholar, Mechanic 1
Archetype: Forerunner
Homeworld: Azlanti Star Empire
Init +2; Senses Perception +0
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DEFENSE
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EAC 13
KAC 14
CMD 22
Stamina points 6
Hit Points 10
Resolve Points 4
Fort +2, Ref +4, Will +0
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OFFENSE
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Spd 30 ft.
Melee
. . Baton, tactical +2 (1d4 B)
Ranged
. . Semi-auto pistol, tactical +2 (1d6)
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STATISTICS
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Key ability: Int
Str 10 (+0)
Dex 14 (+2)
Con 11 (+0)
Int 16 (+3)
Wis 10 (+0)
Cha 12 (+1)
Base Atk +0; Melee attack +0; Ranged attack +2; Thrown Attack +0
Feats / Proficiencies
Light Armor, Basic melee weapons, grenades, small arms Proficiency
Skill Synergy (Culture, Life Science)
Skill Synergy (Computers, Engineering)
Skills
ACROBATICS +2
*ATHLETICS +0
BLUFF +1
*COMPUTERS +10
*CULTURE +7
DIPLOMACY +2
DISGUISE +1
*ENGINEERING +10
INTIMIDATE +1
*LIFE SCIENCE +7
*MEDICINE +x
MYSTICISM +1
*PERCEPTION +0
*PHYSICAL SCIENCE +8
*PILOTING +6
*PROFESSION +x
*PROFESSION +x
SENSE MOTIVE +0
SLEIGHT OF HAND +x
STEALTH +5
SURVIVAL +0
* = class skill
line out = trained only skill with no ranks
Languages: Common, Azlanti, Aklo, Sarcesian, Akitonian, Ysoki
Class / Theme Abilities
Theme Knowledge: (physical Science – astronomy) : The DC of skill checks to recall knowledge about your specialty is reduced by 5. Your chosen skill is a class skill for you, though if it is a class skill from the class you take at 1st level, you instead gain a +1 bonus to checks with your chosen skill.
Artificial Intelligence (EX): You construct an artificial intelligence (or AI), a sophisticated program of self-motivated code that you can access for help in a variety of endeavors. This AI is the product of your own genius, far more advanced and complicated than any available for sale to consumers (though it falls short of being truly self-aware), and only you know the secrets of its creation and operation.
Drone: You begin play with a powerful robotic drone to house your AI. You build and control this drone, which accompanies you on your adventures and is capable of combat, espionage, and other specialized tasks. As you gain levels, your drone advances in sophistication and gain additional abilities. While the value of your drone is immense, only you, with your extensive knowledge of its quirks and security measures, can ever hope to operate or repair it.
Bypass: (+1) You are skilled at getting inside computer systems and electronic devices. At 1st level, you gain a +1 insight bonus to Computers and Engineering skill checks. At 5th level, every 4 levels thereafter, and at 20th level, this bonus increases by 1.
Custom Rig (EX): (from an engineering kit): You have created a customized toolkit you can use to hack systems and items. It is configured to be a handheld device, meaning that you must retrieve it and hold it to use it effectively. While using this rig, you always count as having the appropriate tool or basic kit for any Computers or Engineering skill check you attempt. Some mechanic tricks and drone mods require the use of a custom rig. In addition, you can use your custom rig as a Level 1 Personal comm unit. Finally, if you have a drone, you can use your custom rig to communicate over an encrypted channel with your drone to issue commands to its AI or directly control it at a range of 2,500 feet.
Gear
Second Skin Armor
Semi-auto pistol, tactical
Rounds, small arm
Baton, tactical
Personal Comm Unit
Personal Comm Unit (upgrades joined with Custom Rig)
-- Tier 1 Computer
-- Miniaturization 1
-- Hardened
-- Security 1
-- Self-Charging
-- Range I (100 ft)
-- Calculator
-- Flashlight
UPB’s (universal polymer base) x20
Remaining Credits: 82.5
Total Bulk: 0
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TRACKED RESOURCES
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Rounds, small arm - 0/30
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SPECIAL ABILITIES / ITEMS
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modified Custom Rig: Custom rig acts as a Personal Comm unit, it has been modified to add a Tier 1 computer with modifications and upgrades as listed above.
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image
N, Drone, (Azlanti)
Hover Chassis
Size: Tiny
Init +3; Senses Perception -1
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DEFENSE
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EAC 14
KAC 14
CMD 22
Hit Points 10
Fort +0, Ref +5, Will -1
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OFFENSE
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Spd 30 ft. / Fly 30 ft. (average)
Melee
. . None
Ranged
. . Needler Pistol +4 (1d4 P)
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STATISTICS
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Key ability: Int
Str 06 (-2)
Dex 16 (+3)
Con -- (+0)
Int 06 (-2)
Wis 08 (-1)
Cha 06 (=2)
Ability increases: Dexterity, Wisdom
Base Atk +1; Melee attack -1; Ranged attack +4; Thrown Attack -1
Feats / Proficiencies
Weapon Proficiency: Small Arms
Bonus Skill Unit: Acrobatics
Skill Unit (Ex): Computers
Skill Synergy (Stealth, Life science)
Skills
* ACROBATICS +7
ATHLETICS -2
BLUFF -2
*COMPUTERS +2
CULTURE -2
DIPLOMACY -2
DISGUISE -2
ENGINEERING -2
INTIMIDATE -2
*LIFE SCIENCE +2
MEDICINE -2
MYSTICISM -1
PERCEPTION -1
PHYSICAL SCIENCE -2
PILOTING +3
*PROFESSION +x
SENSE MOTIVE -1
SLEIGHT OF HAND +3
*STEALTH +7
SURVIVAL -1
* = class skill
line out = trained only skill with no ranks
Languages: Common, Azlanti, Aklo, Sarcesian, Akitonian, Ysoki
mods
Initial Mods:
-- Flights System (x2): Your drone gains a fly speed equal to half its land speed with average maneuverability for up to 10 minutes per day. This duration need not be continuous, but it must be used in 1-minute increments. You can select this mod a second time; in this case, the drone’s fly speed increases to its full land speed, and there is no limit on the amount of time it can fly.
-- Weapon Mount: You can affix a small arm or another one-handed ranged weapon on your drone, allowing it to wield that weapon and attack with it. This weapon cannot be disarmed. Mounting a longarm, a heavy weapon, or another two-handed ranged weapon requires two weapon mounts. A weapon mount can hold up to two batteries, two magazines, or two of another type of ammunition for the affixed weapon, provided this ammunition is of light bulk or less. Multiple weapon mounts used to affix a single two-handed weapon count as a single weapon mount for the purpose of how much ammunition it can hold. The drone reloads these batteries or magazines automatically, which takes the usual amount of time for the weapon. Spent batteries or magazines are stored within the drone. You can replace all of a weapon mount’s batteries or magazines as a move action. You must purchase separately or already have the weapon and ammunition for use with a weapon mount. You can replace the weapon with any other weapon that meets the criteria for your mount (for example, if you have two weapon mounts, you could replace a longarm with a heavy weapon). Swapping out a weapon in a weapon mount requires use of your custom rig and 1 hour of work. You can select this mod multiple times, each time adding an additional weapon mount to the drone.
Added Mods:
-- Weapon Proficiency (Ex) (Small Arms)
Gear
Needler Pistol
Darts
Remaining Credits: N/A
Total Bulk: 0
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TRACKED RESOURCES
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Darts - 0/20
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SPECIAL ABILITIES / ITEMS
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Limited AI (Ex): Each round on your turn, after you have acted, your drone can take either a move action or a standard action to attack (your drone doesn’t make a separate initiative roll). You must be able to issue simple commands to your drone, but you don’t have to spend actions to issue these commands. To receive these commands, your drone must be able to see or hear you or be within range of your custom rig. If you become unconscious or otherwise unresponsive, or if your drone is ever out of range, your drone cannot take any actions until you are again able to command it or it is once more within range.
Master Control (Ex): As a move action, you can directly control your drone. This allows the drone to take both a move action and any standard action this turn (one from your control, and one from its limited AI). If you also take a swift action, your drone can take a swift action as well, or it can combine its actions into a full action. Your drone must be able to see or hear you, or be within range of your custom rig, for you to directly control your drone.
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Dr. Mortimer was not always known by this name. He was born in the Azlanti Star Empire and given the name Theta Sigma (θῆτα σῖγμα). He was a half breed, not of true Azlanti pure-blood. His Father, Omicron Sigma, was a rather prominent figure in Azlanti politics, primarily as a liaison for military affairs in dealings with the lesser races among the various systems within the empire. Omicron’s shuttle was among the first to make contact with visitors from the Pact worlds. It was among these Starfinders that Omicron discovered a young woman by the name Thespia.
Long story short, the romance did not go over very well with the Aeon Throne, and Thespia was imprisoned just like the rest of her Starfinders, this was shortly after Theta was born. All the Starfinders were tortured and questioned before eventually being executed. There was little Omicron could do to stop the execution, it would mean the death of his child as well as himself to publicly question the Aeon Throne.
Theta was raised as a pure-blood Azlanti. Sent to the best schools, introduced to many high ranking political and military figures. Eventually Theta was appointed as overseer on a small remote holding on the edge of the Empire, the Jungle planet of Felucia . He reported directly to Admiral Varth, commander of the 3rd Aeon carrier group; perimeter defense group Omega.
During this time, Theta discovered that not all the Starfinders that visited the Empire were captured. The Feucian’s had been taking care of one that had been stranded on the planet’s surface after being downed by an Azlanti interceptor. Theta spent some time with him, learning about the Pact worlds.
Also the Felucian’s have been suffering from plague and starvation as the Azlanti fleet had reduced the supply runs to the system. Theta approached Admiral Varth about the situation. His only response was to deal with it. The Empire has more pressing matters that need to be attended to, and this little holding was of little value. “let them die, no concern of mine” was his exact quote.
Theta returned with the news, and had begun to empathize with the Felucian’s. With the help of the stranded Starfinder, Theta plotted an escape for the Felucian tribe; they managed to fit together several ships. Outfitted with Drift engines, reversed engineered from the crashed Starfinder explorer. And with Theta’s help that managed to bet a small fleet together to make a run for the Golarion system.
They needed a distraction, with another shipment of supplies from Fulucia up to the Azlanti fleet, they rigged bombs in the crates. As the crates were offloaded onto the Azlanti carrier, the bombs went off causing severe damage to the hangar bays.
In the confusion, Theta used his Azlanti shuttle to distract the fleet as the Felucian’s made the jump into the drift toward Absalom Station. Finally, Theta made the jump to follow, but was suddenly hit with a heavy laser cannon, critically damaging the drift engine, He still made the jump but was unable to navigate out at the right spot.
Theta made it to Golarian space, but ended up in the Diaspora. Drifting among the asteroids without power except for emergency life support, Theta was unconscious and the only somewhat sentient creature was an automated robot that tried to activate a distress beacon before its systems failed as well.
The ship was discovered by a group of sarcesians, Theta was rescued along with the robot. Theta was nursed back to health. He learned about where he was and tried to discover the fate of the Felucian refugees. The sarcesians informed him that his ship was to only one that arrived.
Theta lived with the sarcesians and managed to repair the robot that helped save him, He named the robot Rex and re-designed it to be more dog like. He changed his name to Jonathon Mortimer, a name he had heard mentioned by the Starfinder survivor he met on Felucia. The idea of the Starfinders intrigued him, so he managed to sell of what he could, and reequipped himself, bought passage to Absalom Station to learn more about these Starfinders, and possibly offer his insights on the Azlanti Star Empire.
The command deck of an Azlanti Alpha Aeon class carrier is impressive, at least the few that can even access that level. The black polished metal decking, illuminated by integrated floor lighting. No less than 10 Aeon guard stand at various stations about the bridge. Several command stations flank a central command console, each manned by an Azlanti officer.
Overlooking the fleet through the large observation bridge, stands an Azlanti Admiral, His black and red uniform, trimmed in gold stands out among the lesser officers on the bridge. Admiral Varth gazes out the observation deck windows, surveying his fleet as the echoing footsteps of someone approaching rings out across the bridge.
Overseer Theta, always good to see you. Varth says without even turning to face his visitor, his tone very arrogant and condescending.
Stopping at the appropriate distance as specified by regulations, Theta composes himself, adjusting his uniform as though going through inspection. Admiral Varth, Sir, the food supplies are almost ready to begin shuttling to the fleet. I am afraid that the crop yield is light this season.
Excuses, Overseer. The Empire is not interested in your excuses, only results. It is your responsibility to ensure that these… creatures, contribute to the Empire. Varth still refuses to face Theta, seeing him as something less than human.
Sir, the Felucian’s are suffering, their productivity is down due to the lack of medicinals from the Empire. Also plague has…
EXCUSES Theta! Varth interrupts, turning now to face Overseer Theta. Mind your place, and whom you serve. Were it not for your father, you would be dead for your tone. I owe him that much at the least. You will get no more supplies, in case you were unaware, The Empire has begun its expansion in the Telos system. I intend to be on the front lines instead of wasting my time with this insignificant little, colony. Now get those supplies loaded before I lose my patience with you. Varth lectures the young Overseer as he proceeds down the steps of the observation deck to be face to face with Theta.
Yes sir. Theta responds and takes his leave of the Admiral.
Exiting the lift on the hangar deck, Theta meets with his Felucian shuttle pilot, Are we to get our medicinal shipment? he asks of Theta.
I am afraid not this time. Let’s get back to the surface and start to load the shuttles; All of them. Theta answers. A plan long time in the making starts to come to fruition.
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It occurs to me that if "face" is not a sufficiently well-defined position for a starship crew role, Stell could be the communications officer. I could shift a skill rank to computers or pilot if that would help. She has a rank in culture and has learned two other languages.
She could, of course, be the captain, but with no experience in such things, she might not command a lot of respect, unless no one else had military command experience. Just want to let you know that I will work with others should Stell be selected to make sure she can fill an appropriate role in the starship team. One of her movie roles could be to have played a starship captain, a la Captain Janeway and she could roll against her profession skill as a stand in for Profession (starship captain). Likewise for other starship roles should there be a hole that needs filling.
I plan to also add a spoiler with some ideas of NPCs who might be appropriate for future encounters as the GM mentioned that as a possibility.
It occurs to me that if "face" is not a sufficiently well-defined position for a starship crew role, Stell could be the communications officer. I could shift a skill rank to computers or pilot if that would help. She has a rank in culture and has learned two other languages.
About Starship Roles:
(for those of you that are unfamiliar with space combat)Starship roles are specific game terms for space combat and are mainly defined by skills. There is no "communications officer" role.
* The Engineer role uses Engineering skill exclusively. You can have several engineers.
* The Science Officer role uses Computers skill exclusively. You can have more than one science officer.
* The Pilot role uses Piloting skill exclusively. There can only be one pilot at any given time.
* The Captain role uses a variety of social skills: Intimidate and Diplomacy mainly, and also Bluff skill occasionally (but only if your Bluff is better than Intimidate). The captain can also use Engineering, Computers, or Piloting to assist the people with those roles, though he can also use Diplomacy. There can only be one captain.
* The Gunner role does not use a skill and instead uses your BAB + your DEX bonus. However, you can substitute your ranks in piloting for your BAB (but you don't add any other bonuses to piloting skill). You can have as many gunners as you want.
Generally to do well in your starship role you need to maximize your abilities in that skill.
All of the roles are optional; you can even go without a pilot and use the "Glide" minor action to move your ship (though this is strictly inferior to having a pilot). Likewise if there are no gunners you can use the "Snap Shot" action to fire one weapon with a penalty to hit. These actions allow ships with a crew of one (like one-man fighters) to operate, but can be used on bigger ships too.
At the start of each combat round, players may switch roles if they wish. So if the ship becomes badly damaged, several crew members could switch to being engineers to try to help fix things, for example.
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For a five-person crew it usually makes sense that only one person in the party should maximize their skills for any specific role, though classes like mechanic and technomancer can usually do a good job switch-hitting between engineer and science officer, and the operative can potentially be good at all three.
The Envoy makes a good captain, particularly if they use their Expertise ability in social skills like Intimidate and Diplomacy, but the can't get bonuses to any other ship skills. Mystics can be good captains if they have the Mindbreaker or Overlord Connection, and they can be a good pilot if they have the Star Shaman connection. Other types of Mystics will never be especially good at ship roles (though they can still do them) but if they maximize piloting they can be reasonable gunners.
Soldiers and Solarions don't have the kind of skill bonuses that the 3/4 BAB classes get. But since they have full BAB they don't have to invest any skill points to maximize gunnery. Solarions also usually have decent CHA and therefore can make passable captains, though the Envoy usually does it better.
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As I said before, I'm not going to choose a party where everyone wants to be the pilot. The space combat rules assume a party where the various party members are developing themselves in ways to support the team, rather than competing for one another for positions on the ship. However, I will be a little more flexible about the party makeup in the sense that aside from captain and pilot it doesn't matter to me how many of each other role there are, since you can double up on all the other roles if you want.
Name-Race-Theme-Class-Ship Role-Player
Rising Dawn (background) (more background) -Android-Priest-Mystic (Saranrae)-Science Officer- Brainiac
Kivipra-Lashunta Damaya-Spacefarer-Technomancer- ???-Tomteserae
Manas Barsar (more background) -Verthani-Scholar-Mechanic-???-Minas Dyrendal
Ashley "Ash" Carter-Human-Spacefarer-Operative (Explorer)-Wildcard-Kevin O'Rourke
Twitch-Ysoki-???-Mechanic-Spacefarer-Engineer-Fabian Benavente
Iolas-Nuar-Mechanic-Pilot or Engineer-Simeon
Stell Z-Lin - Human - Icon - Envoy - Face
Phaneron (concept only) - Contemplative - Scholar - Technomancer - Science officer? - rungok
Dr. Jonathon J. Mortimer - human - scholar - mechanic - engineer? - Edward Sobel
Did I miss anyone?
Thanks to Kevin for starting the list.
I changed detect tech to overheat based upon your suggestion. I’m also revising her background to remove Castrovel from her damaya transformation. As far as working for the company QaroMC Zedrio, I think she will be assigned to an exploratory vessel, but not enjoy the experience as much as she expected. She thinks joining the Starfinders will not be as profit-driven.
I'll post more tomorrow after I get my notes and new ideas written.
Kivipra/tomtesserae:
FYI I don't want to play your character for you, but I also want to make sure that all characters can at least pull their weight in combat, even if they aren't the primary damage dealers. Starfinder, like Pathfinder, is a combat-focused game.
Look forward to seeing your complete character.
Feedback: Ashley “Ash” Carter
Hi, Kevin!
I remember the Red-skinned humans of Akiton, and we will say that they are still there (just not specifically mentioned in Starfinder materials, since humans are everywhere these days). So if you wish your character to be from this branch of humanity that is no problem.
Background:
My first impression of your story is that your grammar is very bad. Maybe you were in a hurry when you wrote this but there are a number of spots where I stumbled and had to go back to figure out what you were talking about, such as:
"Ash became started going..."
How many verbs are supposed to be here?
You will need to proofread your work a little better here. I know that not everyone has perfect grammar and spelling. But understand that when reading someone's prose the errors break the flow. It's like static on a TV show. If there's a little bit of static, you can ignore it, but the more there is, the more likely you are to give up, change the channel, and watch something else. Remember that as a GM I have to read your stuff.
No overall problems with the story, though it is a little basic. It's good that you name a 'patron' who sponsored you into the society, but I wouldn't mind a bit more detail into what you did in your work for Rumos. I also wouldn't mind a few other details, such as what you were and what you did before you met Rumos, and possibly some people that weren't so friendly to you.
Crunch:
Build is basically solid. The sheet is barebones descriptively but you seen to know the rules and the build is correct overall. FYI you don't actually get the Ever Vigilant ability until 5th level.
Since you have the toughness feat, I might suggest setting DEX at 18 and CON at 10. Remember that resolve points limit how many times you can refresh your stamina pool, so 1 more point of DEX is like having that many more HP. And it helps some skills that are important to you.
Feedback: Twitch
Background:
Overall pretty descriptive and you have a decent writing style. That's good.
You really have no details in your story though. Basically it's just "Twitch was a really good mechanic. One day he decided to join the Starfinders." It would be good to flesh it out some more.
* Why is Twitch a "starfarer" when he has never been to the stars?
* Was there some event that made you consider the Starfinders?
* Was there some person that played a part in your life? Bad or good?
Try to give me things I can hang plot on.
Crunch:
Overall pretty good.
Be advised that Skill Focus and Bypass do not stack. Your Engineering should only be +12 (which is still great).
The Survival Knife has the operative property which means you can use DEX for your to-hit rolls. So you should have +3 to use it.
Feedback: Phaneron
You haven't made a full submission here, just a proposal. So I'll make what comments I can.
Contemplatives are basically floating brains. They are creepy and weird. If I'm going to have one in my game I want the player to be able to roleplay that convincingly. So your writing sample (when you submit one) will play a bigger part here than for other characters. It will help if you put some thought into how contemplatives do ordinary things compared to other races.
I also wouldn't mind hearing from you why you wish to play this race in particular. What does it do for you that other races don't? What about this race appeals to you?
I see nothing wrong with you moving forward with your submission, as long as you recognize that you are giving yourself a bit of a handicap by playing such a race.
Feedback: Iolas "Skid"
Background:
Overall I like the background. A few things:
* It wouldn't hurt to give things names, like the gang that started paying you to throw races or the names of the crime lord and his boss.
* Having a few things showing how Iolas managed to elude the gang and throw them off his trail before he joined the Starfinders would be a good thing. We can assume they are still looking for you but I don't want to have a bunch of them hanging out front of the Lorespire tower waiting for you to come out every adventure. So if you can explain why they don't know where you are that would be good.
* Pedantic note: you describe your character as having two horns, but the one in the illustration has four. Are you missing horns for some reason? A subspecies of Nuar that only has two? For the record you could have only one horn left and you would still get the natural attack.
Crunch:
Nuars start with 6 HP for race so you should have 12 HP, not 10.
Do you plan on getting the Versatile Specialization feat at 3rd level? If not, investing in heavy weapons is probably a mistake, since you won't get free Weapon Specialization at 3rd level in heavy weapons.
Survival knife is an operative weapon so you can use DEX for your to-hit rolls. It's like weapon finesse.
You don't need to list skills you have no ranks or other bonuses in. The way you have done your skills makes it really hard for me to figure out where your skill ranks are.
Skill Focus and Bypass do not stack. Engineering should be +9.
Not sure how your piloting is so good either. 1 rank +3 DEX +3 Class +1 Theme = +8. Ah, racial bonus.
Ideal format for skills would be like this:
Piloting: +10 (1 rank, +3 DEX, +3 Class, +1 Theme, +2 Race)
That saves me from having to look up where your bonuses are coming from.
Feedback: Twitch
Background:
Overall pretty descriptive and you have a decent writing style. That's good.
You really have no details in your story though. Basically it's just "Twitch was a really good mechanic. One day he decided to join the Starfinders." It would be good to flesh it out some more.
* Why is Twitch a "starfarer" when he has never been to the stars?
* Was there some event that made you consider the Starfinders?
* Was there some person that played a part in your life? Bad or good?Try to give me things I can hang plot on.
Thanks for the feedback. It's not always that GMs take the time to help craft characters since they usually wait until players are selected and some don't even do it at all. This bodes well for the game. :)
Thanks for the compliment. I try to make characters that are fun to play without making them total clowns.
I can give you more info on Twitch. Let me work on some of those events tomorrow and I'll post them.
As you probaby know these PCs will take a life on their own once we start playing and I like to post 'flashbacks' detailing some of their past events to color their present outlook on current events.
Crunch:
Overall pretty good.
Not much to do here other than make the changes you pointed out.
Like I said, I am still learning the rules and my game just started their first starship fight which is a whole different animal than regular combat.
I'm looking forward to continue learning in this game.
Game on!
Feedback: Iolas "Skid"
Background:
Overall I like the background. A few things:
* It wouldn't hurt to give things names, like the gang that started paying you to throw races or the names of the crime lord and his boss.
* Having a few things showing how Iolas managed to elude the gang and throw them off his trail before he joined the Starfinders would be a good thing. We can assume they are still looking for you but I don't want to have a bunch of them hanging out front of the Lorespire tower waiting for you to come out every adventure. So if you can explain why they don't know where you are that would be good.
* Pedantic note: you describe your character as having two horns, but the one in the illustration has four. Are you missing horns for some reason? A subspecies of Nuar that only has two? For the record you could have only one horn left and you would still get the natural attack.Crunch:
Nuars start with 6 HP for race so you should have 12 HP, not 10.
Do you plan on getting the Versatile Specialization feat at 3rd level? If not, investing in heavy weapons is probably a mistake, since you won't get free Weapon Specialization at 3rd level in heavy weapons.
Survival knife is an operative weapon so you can use DEX for your to-hit rolls. It's like weapon finesse.
You don't need to list skills you have no ranks or other bonuses in. The way you have done your skills makes it really hard for me to figure out where your skill ranks are.
Skill Focus and Bypass do not stack. Engineering should be +9.
Not sure how your piloting is so good either. 1 rank +3 DEX +3 Class +1 Theme = +8.Ah, racial bonus.Ideal format for skills would be like this:
Piloting: +10 (1 rank, +3 DEX, +3 Class, +1 Theme, +2 Race)
That saves me from having to look up where your bonuses are coming from.
Thanks for the feedback. For the horns, I thought it might vary from nuar to nuar. As for how he escaped, I thought that since he killed/knocked the thug unconcious they wouldn't know where he went. In any case, I can refine to backstory a bit. For mechanics, I was planning on versatile specialization, and I'll likely change skill focus to Perception, as I hadn't noticed that the various bonuses stacked. I'll also make those changes to the skills and throw up another post with the updated character.
Yeah I was rushing to get it done before heading off to work.
Feedback: Phaneron
You haven't made a full submission here, just a proposal. So I'll make what comments I can.
Contemplatives are basically floating brains. They are creepy and weird. If I'm going to have one in my game I want the player to be able to roleplay that convincingly. So your writing sample (when you submit one) will play a bigger part here than for other characters. It will help if you put some thought into how contemplatives do ordinary things compared to other races.
Okay I'll work out the rest of the character submission and give you a suitable writing sample of what this character would be like. I have spent time thinking about them, so I'll try to show that in my writing.
Feedback: Phaneron
I also wouldn't mind hearing from you why you wish to play this race in particular. What does it do for you that other races don't? What about this race appeals to you?
Okay, storytime.
Once, many years ago when I was still playing 3.5 D&D, I used to play a psionic character: an Elan Psion that I ended up playing all the way from level 1 through to epic levels, 21-30. I ended play with him a level 20 Psion and Level 10 Psion Uncarnate prestige class. I had a lot of great times with this character and quite a few of my favorite memories of gaming come from playing him.The Psion Uncarnate actually had an interesting theme to it: The class started becoming incorporeal for longer and longer durations during the progression of the class until at 10th level they permanently become an incorporeal being. We went through it as if it was the character evolving beyond the need for his physical body and existing as a being of pure thought and psychic power.
The Contemplatives followed a similar theme (being psychic entities that evolved/are evolving beyond the needs of the physical world) and that really struck a chord with me. It had me excited to play a Contemplative character that was something akin to an homage to a character I managed to retire successfully. When I saw there were some openings for this game, and knowing that PFS adventures are varied and interesting, I felt that it would be a great set of stories to run that character through.
I hope that answers your question. If you wish I can go through with a different character concept. I have plenty.
Btw, the red skinned humans of Akiton are still around in Starfinder. I think there is a brief mention of them in the core rule book, and one shows up as a minor NPC in the first module of the Dead Suns adventure path.
BTW, changed my Avatar since I am playing Obozaya in an SFS game. :)
Thanks for the feedback. It's not always that GMs take the time to help craft characters since they usually wait until players are selected and some don't even do it at all. This bodes well for the game. :)
Glad you think so. I like talking about character development. But...
A note about Feedback:
I will try to provide feedback for submissions but the closer we get to the deadline the less chance I will have to give any. I probably won't be giving any feedback in the last 2 or 3 days of recruitment.
** spoiler omitted **...
For Iolas, a couple things:
* Absalom Station is like a high-tech city with a very integrated but overstressed infrastructure. So a gang would probably be able to use hackers to infiltrate the video servers of station security to track Iolas or his vehicle, and banking servers to track credit transactions. They might be able to bribe stewards or others to look out for him. So just not having eyewitnesses to the moment when he flees probably isn't enough, certainly not in the long term. Iolas has a good computers skill so he would know these things, and might be able to do some hacking of his own to reduce his datatrail.
* Since you can change the skill focus feat that your Exocortex gives you when you level up, it is not necessarily a bad thing to have it in engineering right now. Once your Bypass bonus gets to +2 or +3 you have more of a rationale for switching.
** spoiler omitted **
Kevin: Yeah, I figured it was something like that. Just make sure you clean thing up before the deadline. You still have a week.
I have no problems with players or GMs making suggestions about my characters, especially in the beginning. This is a collaborative game after all.
I do want Kivipra to have some combat oriented spell. That is why she originally had supercharge weapon. The AoE given by overheat changed my mind and that’s why I went with it instead.
Like you, I don’t want Kivipra to be a detriment in a fight. She has a +2 to ranged attacks (from Dex) so that should be helpful.
I thought Kivipra could be the Science Officer or the Engineer.
As a child, Kivipra visited numerous planets in Near space and the Vast, including some worlds on the edge of the Veskarium. It was always exciting from the appearance of the plane to the sensation of a new gravity and the odor of the world to the discovery of long forgotten devices buried in ruins.
Both of her parents and older brother are korasha lashunta, so it was a bit surprising to feel herself yearning to become a damaya. She wanted to understand the way the different machines, energy, and magic they encountered worked.
At the age of twenty, Kivipra entered The New Sovris Mystickal University. It is a space station orbiting Castrovel with a well-regarded technomancy program. It was strange to be away from her immediate family for such a length of time, but she did have extended family living on Castrovel, such as her aunt Pranisupa.
After she graduated she was hired by QaroMC Zedrio, a business exploring the galaxy. Assigned to the survey vessel Jonarip, she found herself exploring little known planets with a team of seventeen beings. Her starship duties included maintaining the drives, power systems, and computers. Planetside, she inspected devices and technology that they found in ruins or acquired through trade with the local inhabitants. After seven months on board, Kivipra realized she wanted a change. The work she did was fun and important, but without working alongside people she cared about she felt like she was missing something.
After quitting she searched for a smaller company to join but didn’t really find one that seemed adequate. Through the network of people she had helping her for a job, she found a lead for employment through the Starfinder Society. She doesn’t know that Pranisupa called in a favor to get her niece the interview. Impressed with her background and skills, they accepted her into the group. Now she’s looking forward to being placed with a small crew and exploring the nearly countless stars and planets.
Okay, storytime.
Once, many years ago...
Cool story.
A few things about the concept:
* If you want to go with a "psychic" kind of character, you will find that most of the spells that have a psychic theme fall under the mystic spell list rather than technomancer. The mindbreaker and overlord connections particularly have a psychic theme to them. Not sure if that matters for your plan.
* At present I am not aware of any game mechanic that would let your character become incorporeal, even at high levels, except for a few spells. I haven't looked at the high-level spells too closely yet.
* I'd be willing to houserule that Contemplatives have an at-will psychokinetic hand with a range of 5 feet. Mechanically this changes nothing since you can just pick up things with your hands at that distance, but it makes them match the artwork.
* Spellcaster Characters shouldn't be completely dependent on spells, because it takes a lot of levels before you can cast one every combat round. Combat seems to take a few rounds longer than a Pathfinder combat and you have less spells per day than a wizard.
* The problem there is that racially contemplatives have big penalties carrying two-handed weapons. Limiting yourself to small arms for good means that your actions outside of spellcasting are a bit limited. The general consensus I am finding on the boards is that the spellcasting classes generally ought to take longarm proficiency or something similar and this will not be a practical option for you. Without some class ability based around small arms their damage output is generally too small.
* One more thing: If your character wears armor (and I don't know why he wouldn't) then the "brain" will generally be under a helmet of some kind and not really be visible. Relevant for when you describe your character's appearance.
Food for thought.
any feedback for Dr. Mortimer? I already think there is an issue concerning skills.
looks like they made almost everything an insight bonus to prevent feats and class skill bonuses from stacking. this really limits things bit.
Imagining Obozaya as a goofy looking lizard like the profile pic you changed to cracks me up. I've updated Iolas' background and skill sheet in the spoilers below.
All other skills have a +0
ACROBATICS* (DEX) +3 ( 0 ranks, +3 ability)
¨ ATHLETICS* (STR) +5(1 ranks, +3 class bonus, +1 ability mod)
¨ COMPUTERS (INT) +7 (1 ranks, +3 class bonus, +2 ability mod, +1 misc bonus)
¨ ENGINEERING (INT) +9 (1 ranks, +3 class bonus, +2 ability mod, +3 misc bonus)
¨ PERCEPTION (WIS) +4 (1 ranks, +3 class bonus)
¨ PHYSICAL SCIENCE (INT) +6 ( 1 ranks, + 3 class bonus, +2 ability bonus)
¨ PILOTING (DEX) +10 ( 1 ranks +3 class bonus, +3 ability bonus , +1 theme, + 2 race)
¨ STEALTH* (DEX) +3 (+ 3 ability bonus)
Iolas, better known as Skid to those that don’t know him well, comes from the twisted corridors of Pipetown, home of many lower class nuar. From a young age, he was enamored by the junk-racers of Botscrap, the fame it brought them called to him but most importantly the thrill of racing and the challenge of building a racer. When he came of age, he became a racer under the alias of Skid, and rose quickly in the leagues. With fame though, came danger that he was unprepared to deal with. A prominent street gang, the Botscrap Posse, saw profit to be gained from him, and pressured him into throwing matches, sacrificing his integrity for money. The boss, a half-orc name Bloody Gorrog was a cruel man, using his power to bully nearly everyone he knew. It tore at Iolas, and he constantly looked for ways to escape their demands. His opportunity came when he was slated to race, and lose, against the son of the crime boss, an aspiring junkracer named Vurol. While Vurol was an aspiring racer, he was terrible at it and relied on his relation to Bloody Gorrog to win most races, along with inheriting the mean streak from him. Iolas decided to leave the business with a bang by defeating Vurol. The race day came, and he pulled ahead of the Vurol fairly easily, which other racers saw as their chance to further the upstart’s loss. The son ended up in second-to-last place, utterly humiliated. The Botscrap Posse was after Iolas and out for blood, eager to get revenge for humbling Vurol. After a close encounter with thug sent by the Posse, Iolas called in a few favours from a friend in the black market arms-dealing business to be smuggled out of the station. Ending up in the Armada, he went into hiding. He found himself repairing ships in exchange for all he could drink in the countless drifter bars of the Armada and occasional protection. It was a hard and lonely life, but it was better than back in the Spike where he’d likely have no life at all. He took a job fixing a battery of mass drivers on the Master of Stars, the headquarters of the Wayfinders. Fitch, their leader, saw Iolas’ talent with engineering, and tried to convince him to join the Starfinder society for help and reliable protection, and Iolas agreed. While training with the Starfinders, he developed an exocortex and took a liking to heavy weapons, especially the satisfying kick of the recoil and the unique challenges of keeping them
Okay, storytime.
Once, many years ago...Cool story.
A few things about the concept:
* If you want to go with a "psychic" kind of character, you will find that most of the spells that have a psychic theme fall under the mystic spell list rather than technomancer. The mindbreaker and overlord connections particularly have a psychic theme to them. Not sure if that matters for your plan.
* At present I am not aware of any game mechanic that would let your character become incorporeal, even at high levels, except for a few spells. I haven't looked at the high-level spells too closely yet.
* I'd be willing to houserule that Contemplatives have an at-will psychokinetic hand with a range of 5 feet. Mechanically this changes nothing since you can just pick up things with your hands at that distance, but it makes them match the artwork.
* Spellcaster Characters shouldn't be completely dependent on spells, because it takes a lot of levels before you can cast one every combat round. Combat seems to take a few rounds longer than a Pathfinder combat and you have less spells per day than a wizard.
* The problem there is that racially contemplatives have big penalties carrying two-handed weapons. Limiting yourself to small arms for good means that your actions outside of spellcasting are a bit limited. The general consensus I am finding on the boards is that the spellcasting classes generally ought to take longarm proficiency or something similar and this will not be a practical option for you. Without some class ability based around small arms their damage output is generally too small.
* One more thing: If your character wears armor (and I don't know why he wouldn't) then the "brain" will generally be under a helmet of some kind and not really be visible. Relevant for when you describe your character's appearance.
Food for thought.
I'm okay with foregoing the incorporeal stuff. Yeah I can see that mystic would work better. Let me read through that again and see if I can figure out which of those connections I like the most.
That houserule is fine by me! I understand their limitation for 2-handed equipment, which is fine, though I had the most amusing idea pop into my head of a Contemplative soldier that uses a big-ass shotgun and gets knocked on his butt 5 feet back every time he pulls the trigger. :P
I think there's gotta be some things I can do to make small arms effective though. Eh, I'll figure it out.
Yeah, I realize that I'd be effectively a Bobblehead character, unless I use one of the suits of armor that uses force fields (which, they do mention in the armor section). I think some gear like Lashunta Ringwear expressly mentions that. Even without that, I'm staring at the art for them and trying to figure out where the viewports would be on the armor... ? Heheheh. I guess I'll go ask around.
any feedback for Dr. Mortimer? I already think there is an issue concerning skills.
Sorry, haven't got to that one yet. Should be soon.
Yeah I can see that mystic would work better.
Without a racial WIS bonus it will be hard to make a good mystic... though a Contemplative Mystic will at least have lots of skills. :)
I think there's gotta be some things I can do to make small arms effective though. Eh, I'll figure it out.
A few things can help out Small Arms:
* The Deadly Aim feat
* The Multiattack feat
But neither of these is overwhelming. Small arms are just intended to do less damage.
Sometimes the small-arms character just spends his time setting up covering fire and harrying fire for the other party members.
|
I present Ranif, a Dragonkin Soldier bonded to Kraviranth (who will post his character later). In his past, he was a temporary member of the Skyfire Legion, a mercenary company. As for the Spaceship combat role that he will fill best, it would be gunner since he has no other applicable skills for Spaceship combat.
.
Male Dragonkin Soldier 1
CG Male Dragon
Init: +6; Senses: darkvision, low-light vision; Perception +0
DEFENSE
EAC: 13; KAC: 14; AC vs. Combat Maneuvers: 22
HP: 13; SP: 9; RP 4
Fort: +3; Reflex: +2; Fortitude: +2; + versus Paralysis, +4 to avoid damage from hot or cold environments, harm effects of thin or thick atmospheres, avoid choking from breathing heavy soke, and to avoid fatigue caused by sleep deprivation
Immunities: Sleep
OFFENSE
Speed: 40 feet, fly 30 feet (average)
Melee: Tactical Doshko +4 (1d12+3 P)
Offensive Abilities: Breath Weapon (30-foot cone, 1d6 fire, Reflex DC 11 half, usable every short rest)
STATISTICS
Str 16, Dex 14, Con 12, Int 11, Wis 10, Cha 10
Base Attack Bonus: +1
Feats: Toughness
Skills: Acrobatics: +6, Athletics: +8, Medicine: +4, Survival: +4
Languages: Common, Draconic, Triaxian
Special Qualities: Breath Weapon, Draconic Immunities, Draconic Vision, Flight, Partner Bond (Kraviranth), Primary Fighting Style (Blitz), Primary Fighting Style Techniques (Rapid Response), Theme Knowledge (-5 to DCs of Culture and Profession (mercenary) checks to recall knowledfe about heirarchies, practices, personnel, and so on in the military)
Gear: Industrial Backpack, Infrared Sensor Armor Upgrade, Mk 1 Serum of Healing (2), Second Skin, Tactical Doshko, Travel Clothing, Wrist Pad (Tier 1 Computer, Miniturized, Self-Charging), Prosthetic Leg, 15 credits
Height: 8' 2"
Weight: 1,000 lbs
Age: 32
Bulk Limit: 8
However, on their first mission as full Legionaries, they learned that the Legion was not as honorable as it made itself out to be. Learning mid flight that they were being sent down to Triaxus to work for a chromatic dragon in the Drakelands, Ranif realized that this job was not as heroic as he had believed it to be. Over the course of the mission, his left leg suffered immense damage and needed to be replaced. Even up until now, he does not remember the exact details of that day. After that mission, he left the Skyfire Legion with his weapon and armor, and little else. He was relieved when Kraviranth chose to accompany him instead of remain in the Legion. They left Triaxus in search of better fortunes, with their first stop being Absalom Station. Having heard of the Starfinder Society, and knowing that they were in needs of recruits, Ranif suggested to Kraviranth that the Starfinders should be their first stop.
Important NPC's
Zhindal - Lashunta that helped Ranif and Kraviranth to travel from Triaxus to Absalom station.
Malsvir - Chromatic dragon that Ranif and his team were tasked to help
Silah - Dragonkin training rival from the Skyfire Legion
Identifying the correct shop, he groaned internally once he saw that the meeting was to be at a Shirren choice bar. Shunting aside his initial distaste, he pushed open the door. Stepping immediatley to the side of the door, he averted his eyes from the center floor. With its dizzying array of colors, sounds, and other sensory inputs, it was sure to give him a headache if he paid it to much attention. The possibility of having to go out into that was already making his leg stump itch, which always happened when he became nervous or agitated. Looking to the side, however, he immediatley noted which booth their contact was sat at and started in that direction, thankful he did not have to cross the floor.
Sliding his large self carefully into the self-shaping booth, Ranif make sure to leave enough space for (Your character). He then examined their contact, looking them up and down. Slight of build, the female lashunta sitting opposite him lounged across her side of the booth, taking up the entire side of the table. Slowly sipping a drink of shifting colors, she appeared to be paying them no attention, although her antennae appeared to be drifting in their direction.
So, I see that the scaled-ones are finally here, she said in his mind, and presumably Kraviranth's as well. Ranif bristled at the insult, not knowing whether or not it was intentional. However, he knew that they needed this woman's help.
Zhindal, I care not your for insults, be they intentional or not. But we do need your assistance, Ranif growled at her.
Oh, no. No insult meant at all, her thought voice purred in his mind. Now, just tell me how I can be of assistance.
Well, Ranif said, glancing to his side, that question I will let my companion here answer, as he can say it better than I.
Due to moving out of my parents' house into my first house that I own myself, I've been rather delayed, so Kraviranth is not anywhere near complete yet. I do have a background in the alias if you want to look at it, but the stats and writing sample will probably come tonight.
Im actually amazed by how many Mechanics there are for this. It never seemed like the most popular class. Part of the reason I made one is I love the tech part of a sci-fi setting but it was also because I thought it wouldn't be so hotly contested as a position. Oh well, lots of interesting characters applying already and there is still a few more days.
I noticed this too. I may end up having two mechanics, but if I do choose two, one will likely have a drone and the other an exocortex.
If you wish to change your character you may do so as long as the new character is in before the deadline.
FYI I hope to make some posts with feedback later this morning.
Let's break this down by "type"
Name-Race-Theme-Class-Ship Role-Player
Envoys:
Stell Z-Lin - Human - Icon - Envoy - Face
Operatives:
Ashley "Ash" Carter-Human-Spacefarer-Operative (Explorer)-Wildcard-Kevin O'Rourke
Mechanics:
Manas Barsar (more background) -Verthani-Scholar-Mechanic-???-Minas Dyrendal
Twitch-Ysoki-???-Mechanic-Spacefarer-Engineer-Fabian Benavente
Iolas-Nuar-Mechanic-Pilot or Engineer-Simeon
Dr. Jonathon J. Mortimer - human - scholar - mechanic - engineer? - Edward Sobel
Mystics:
Rising Dawn (background) (more background) -Android-Priest-Mystic (Saranrae)-Science Officer- Brainiac
Solarians:
None.
Soldiers:
Ranif - Dragonkin - Mercenary - Soldier - Gunner - Jace Nailo
Technomancers:
Kivipra-Lashunta Damaya-Spacefarer-Technomancer- ???-Tomteserae
Phaneron (concept only) - Contemplative - Scholar - Technomancer - Science officer? - rungok
Kraviranth (incomplete) - Vesk - Scholar - Technomancer - Science/Engineering - Almonihah
Okay, I think I'm finally almost done with Kraviranth. I realized I forgot to pick out a feat, so I'll do that this evening, but otherwise he should be complete. Right now his spell selection is mostly geared towards dealing damage, but as he gains levels I plan on branching out into more utility/control spells.
His stat block is in the alias, along with his background and description. As for RPG experience, I've been playing D&D and its variants since AD&D 2e. This is only the second Starfinder character I've built, though, so I might be a bit shaky on rules differences from Pathfinder.
My writing sample will come as soon as I run it by Jace and make sure it looks good to him, since it involves both our characters.
Recruitment is open until the 19th, Zousha. :)
I tweaked Kivipra’s skills and background to make her a fairly decent pilot. So her role on the starship could be pilot, science officer, or engineer.
As a child, Kivipra visited numerous planets in Near space and the Vast, including some worlds on the edge of the Veskarium. It was always exciting from the appearance of the plane to the sensation of a new gravity and the odor of the world to the discovery of long forgotten devices buried in ruins. With supervision, she piloted the Venerable Machete in-system and in the Drift. She enjoyed the interplay of thrusters and momentum, using gravity to conserve fuel on a turn, and the high G’s of accelerating. Plus she knew that if she wanted to explore planets in the future, knowing how to pilot a starship was essential.
Both of her parents and older brother are korasha lashunta, so it was a bit surprising to feel herself yearning to become a damaya. She wanted to understand the way the different machines, energy, and magic they encountered worked.
At the age of twenty, Kivipra entered The New Sovris Mystickal University. It is a space station orbiting Castrovel with a well-regarded technomancy program. It was strange to be away from her immediate family for such a length of time, but she did have extended family living on Castrovel, such as her aunt Pranisupa.
After she graduated she was hired by QaroMC Zedrio, a business exploring the galaxy. Assigned to the survey vessel Jonarip, she found herself exploring little known planets with a team of seventeen beings. Her starship duties included maintaining the drives, power systems, and computers as well as being the second pilot. Planetside, she inspected devices and technology that they found in ruins or acquired through trade with the local inhabitants. After seven months on board, Kivipra realized she wanted a change. The work she did was fun and important, but without working alongside people who were into exploration for more than financial gain, she felt like she was missing something.
After quitting she searched for a smaller company to join but didn’t really find one that seemed adequate. Through the network of people she had helping her for a job, she found a lead for employment through the Starfinder Society. She doesn’t know that Pranisupa called in a favor to get her niece the interview. Impressed with her background and skills, they accepted her into the group. Now she’s looking forward to being placed with a small crew and exploring the nearly countless stars and planets.
Skills (7 skill points) ACP −0
Athletics* +2 (0+0+0+2)
Computers +7 (1+3+3)
Engineering +7 (1+3+3)
Mysticism +4 (1+3+0)
Perception +3 (1+0+0+2)
Piloting +6 (1+3+2)
Physical Science +7 (1+3+3)
Survival +4 (1+3+0)
*ACP applies to these skills
Okay, here's my writing sample:
He surreptitiously checked his own Comm to make sure they were in the right place as Ranif stopped. The dragonkin had a good sense of direction outdoors, but Kraviranth wasn't quite sure he trusted his friend's navigational skills on a space station as much yet. But they were, indeed, in the right spot--a Shirren 'bar', if the cacophony of colors and sounds and choices of straws could be called such.
Kraviranth felt Ranif's agitation as they entered, and in spite of his own distaste for the noise--so different from a laboratory or even a workshop--he did his best to send soothing thoughts to his friend through their bond. He wondered if their contact, a Lashunta by the name of Zhindal, had chosen it because no one would be able to hear them talking over everything else.
It was with some relief that he followed the dragonkin's gaze to where she sat, mercifully at the edge of the room in one of the (comparatively) quieter spots. He waited for Ranif to slide in first, the seating conforming to the dragonkin's bulk, then slid in next to him.
So, I see that the scaled-ones are finally here. It was strange 'hearing' someone other than Ranif's voice in his mind, and he idly wondered if the mechanism was similar to their bond or not.
He filed away the thought to look up later as Ranif spoke.
"Zhindal, I care not your for insults, be they intentional or not. But we do need your assistance."
Kraviranth was a bit surprised by the dragonkin's reaction until he realized that Ranif was insulted by being called a 'scaled-one'. The Vesk didn't really care himself, and part of him wondered if maybe it was just a matter of words and thoughts not quite being the same.
Oh, no. No insult meant at all. Now, just tell me how I can be of assistance, Zhindal replied. Kraviranth wondered briefly why she was so willing to help.
"Well," Ranif said, glancing at Kraviranth, "that question I will let my companion here answer, as he can say it better than I."
The Vesk was a little surprised--he'd thought Ranif was doing fine talking--but he sat up a bit straighter and replied, "We're thinking of joining the Starfinders, but we wanted to verify a few things, first."
Zhindal gave him a quizzical look. The Starfinders aren't exactly secretive about their requirements for new recruits. What do you want to know that you can't just look up?
Kraviranth fidgeted a little bit, glancing up at Ranif for support before turning back to the Lashunta. "We've been burned once before. We want to hear it from... what's the human expression? 'From the horse's mouth'?"
He laughed a little at the Lashunta's puzzled expression. "Sorry, something I read. We just want to make sure it's what the ads say it is. How much autonomy do Starfinders really have?"
Oh is that all? Zhindal replied. Starfinders work in small groups, and as long as you do a good job you're pretty much free to do what you wish while you're on your assignments. Just get the job done and don't do anything that would damage the Starfinders' reputation, and you'll do well.
"And how much choice do you get in assignments?" Kraviranth pressed, thinking back to he and Ranif's terrible first (and only) mission for the Skyfire Legion.
Zhindal shrugged slightly. You can say no, though if you say no too many times you're probably not going to stay a Starfinder. Why do you ask?
The Vesk gave Ranif's prosthetic a significant glance. "Like I said, we've been burned before."
Zhindal looked at the pair for a little while before adding, It's dangerous work, but worth it, and the Starfinder Society will do their best to help you succeed.
Kraviranth was quiet for a long moment before thinking to Ranif, So, what do you think?
Here is my submission
Wint (Each letter is stretched out when it is pronounced so it sounds a lot more like Wwwwiiiinnnnttt) is a Skittermander ghost operative who is an Ace Pilot.
Here is my submission
Wint (Each letter is stretched out when it is pronounced so it sounds a lot more like Wwwwiiiinnnnttt) is a Skittermander ghost operative who is an Ace Pilot.
My subconscious can't decide if it wants to picture this as a dead Skittermander who is now a ghost and an operative or a Skittermander who is dressed like a Ghost from Starcraft. XD
I'd play a dead Skittermander who is a ghost and an operative in a heartbeat. I somehow suspect the GM wouldn't approve such a character, though.
Hmm. Maybe the GM would allow a Pathfinder Spiritualist with a reskinned Phantom? :-) :-).
We also need way more images. "Mine" does NOT look much like a Skittermander, ghost or not
Dotting in. I'm still learning the Starfinder rules, but I'm working on a sniper Operative I'm pretty excited about.
ok here is what I got.
not the most optimized character, but a concept I wanted to give a try.** spoiler omitted **...
Feedback: Dr. Jonathon J. Mortimer
You get bonus points for trying to make a character with an archetype. I don't know if it's worth it mechanically but it's interesting to see one.
Your character sheet is very well organized and easy to figure out.
Feats:
FYI Skill Synergy will not stack with your Bypass ability (they both grant insight bonuses). So at 5th level when bypass gets to +2, your Skill Synergy (Computers, Engineering) feat will do nothing. This also means you have overstated your skill ratings for these skills by 1 point.
Skills:
You don't need to list skills that you have no ranks in. Your ACP is -0 so their bonus is just equal to your ability score bonus (and note that stealth is therefore wrong).
Gear:
Mostly fine. You have actually overspent on your computer.
Personal Comm Unit (upgrades joined with Custom Rig) (127.5 total cost (custom Rig)
-- Tier 1 Computer (55 credits to add to comm unit) Level 1 / Hack DC 18
-- Miniaturization 1 (25 credits, Bulk = L {0.1})
-- Hardened (25 Credits)
-- Security 1 (12.5 credits)
-- Self-Charging (5 credits)
-- Range I (100 ft) (5 credits) ...
* You can incorporate a tier 1 computer into your custom rig for the price listed, but FYI you can also just plug a personal comm unit into a computer manually. So technically you don't need to spend the extra 5 credits. Worth thinking about if you want to upgrade your computer later.
* Miniaturization only costs 10% of the base price per level, so 5 cr, not 25. You could miniaturize it twice and then it would have 0 bulk instead of L.* The range modification only matters if you are including a control module. The comm unit itself is able to wirelessly communicate with things including the infosphere and public comm nets, and you can control your drone with your custom rig. So you can ditch this unless you are getting a control module.
Drone:
Pretty Straight Forward. Since your drone is a better shot than you, you might want to carry the needler pistol yourself and let the drone have the automatic.
The basic concept of your story is fairly sound. The Azlanti-Starfinder first contact happened about 50 years ago so that would be your character's age.
Your writing style is a bit clumsy and could use some editing for grammar. For example, "Felucian’s" means "something belonging to Felucian," as in "I borrowed Felucian's car." You almost certainly mean Felucians.
Don't be afraid to put direct quotes in your background. But it helps to use quotation marks, in addition to butting things in bold.
I'm also not thrilled about your use of Greek letters as names in the Azlanti Empire. Not only does this mean that there are only 24 possible names, but Azlanti doesn't sound much like Greek. There's not a lot of references to Azlanti names out there but Thassilonian is an offshoot of Azlanti, so you can use Thassilonian names as a guideline to what Azlanti names sound like. THIS MAP is a map of Thassilon and has some Thassilonian names. I'd much rather have you get creative and invent some Azlanti names.
Feedback: Stell Z-Lin (updated version)
This seems to be a fairly MAD build. FYI that last 1 ability score point isn't good for much but it may allow you to qualify for feats - which would mostly make it good in DEX or INT. That may or may not matter to you. If you don't plan on that then you might want it in CON since CON is the only score where you can die from ability damage.
You seem to have put one rank in "Profession (musician/actor)." Having dabbled in both fields I can tell you that they are very different skills. I don't mind you using Charisma for both but they will need to be separated on your sheet. They are not the same skill.
Your rank in Culture skill gives you an extra language known.
If you want to go with the actor angle, I'd like you to think a bit more about what films might be like in Starfinder. Consider that in modern films made right now, things like sets and props are no longer necessary and can be done with CGI. Now advance that technology about 200 years, and add magic.
It seems likely that movies made using actual living actors would be something of a novelty. CGI would be used even for the characters. There would be a market for "real" films, but they would be a niche product, far too expensive for most productions.
So what would the place be for "real" actors?
Live theatre will have a much harder time replacing their actors with CGI than in movies (though holographic actors would be possible). It will also be much easier for someone to get started in live theatre as an "independent." Theatre productions have the potential to be very technically elaborate with the technology available. It is also much harder to get fabulously wealthy in live theatre, though an established actor in live theatre might also potentially licence their own image for use in movies as a CGI character (without even needing to act in them).
The musician angle, on the other hand, is more plausible, though there will be a lot of computer-assisted instruments and composition out there. But there will also be a demand for "real" music much in the way that there are still classical musicians today.
Think about it.
Alright, I've got my statblock done, and a general background. Before I get too into the writing, I would like it if someone could take a glance at my character and make sure she's all in order. I've been playing Pathfinder for a few years now, but this is my first Starfinder character and I just want to make sure I haven't forgotten anything.
Female Android Operative
Bounty Hunter
CG Medium humanoid (android)
Init +4; Perception +4; low-light vision, darkvision 60 ft
Defense
KAC 15; EAC 15; CMAC 22
HP 10; Stam 7; Res 5
Fort +1; Ref +6; Will +2; +2 vs disease, mind-affecting, poison, sleep
Resistance Cold 5
Offense
Speed 30 ft;
Melee Survival knife +0 (1d4 S, analog, operative)
Ranged Tactical sniper +4 70ft (1d10 P, analog, unwieldy, sniper 250 ft)
Statistics
Str 10, Dex 18, Con 12, Int 14, Wis 10, Cha 8
Base Atk +0
Feats Skill Focus: Athletics, Skill Focus: Stealth, Mobility
Skills Acrobatics r1 +11, Athletics r1 +4, Computers r1 +6, Culture r1 +6, Engineering r1 +6, Intimidate r1 +3, Medicine r1 +6, Perception r1 +4, Piloting r1 +8, Prof (Bounty Hunter) r1 +6, Sense Motive -2, Sleight of Hand r1 +8, Stealth r1 +11
Languages Castrovelian, Common, Vesk, Ysoki,
Combat Gear Tactical Shirren-eye Rifle, 25 sniper rounds, survival knife
Other Gear Consumer Backpack, Hygiene kit, serum of healing mk 1, professional wear, 14 credits
Class Features
Operative's Edge: +1 Insight bonus to initiative and skill checks
Specialization: Ghost
Trick Attack
Phantom-6 is an android operative, bounty hunter and ideally gunner (although her Computing and Engineering skills aren't bad if she needs to sub out.)
5 had left behind a simple, yet serviceable rifle and just enough credits to make it off world. After changing her appearance as much as possible, 6 took the opportunity to flee. Her first priority,
to find a ship and crew of her own. After that, to discover just what sort of danger her parent had dropped her into.
ok here is what I got.
not the most optimized character, but a concept I wanted to give a try.** spoiler omitted **...
Feedback: Dr. Jonathon J. Mortimer
** spoiler omitted **...
OK thanks for the feedback. will try and come up with some changes.
Okay, updating the list, and breaking it in 2 so it is easier to copy/paste:
Name-Race-Theme-Class-Ship Role-Player
Envoys:
Stell Z-Lin - Human - Icon - Envoy - Face
Operatives:
Ashley "Ash" Carter-Human-Spacefarer-Operative (Explorer)-Wildcard-Kevin O'Rourke
Wint - Skittermander - Ace Pilot - Operative (ghost) - Pilot - pauljathome.
Phantom-6 - Android - Bounty Hunter - Operative - gunner - Michelle A.J.
Mechanics:
Manas Barsar (more background) -Verthani-Scholar-Mechanic-???-Minas Dyrendal
Twitch-Ysoki-???-Mechanic-Spacefarer-Engineer-Fabian Benavente
Iolas-Nuar-Mechanic-Pilot or Engineer-Simeon
Dr. Jonathon J. Mortimer - human - scholar - mechanic - engineer? - Edward Sobel
Part 2:
Name-Race-Theme-Class-Ship Role-Player
Mystics:
Rising Dawn (background) (more background) -Android-Priest-Mystic (Saranrae)-Science Officer- Brainiac
Solarians:
None.
Soldiers:
Ranif - Dragonkin - Mercenary - Soldier - Gunner - Jace Nailo
Technomancers:
Kivipra (background) -Lashunta Damaya-Spacefarer-Technomancer- ???-Tomteserae
Phaneron (concept only) - Contemplative - Scholar - Technomancer - Science officer? - rungok
Kraviranth (sample) - Vesk - Scholar - Technomancer - Science/Engineering - Almonihah
I'd play a dead Skittermander who is a ghost and an operative in a heartbeat. I somehow suspect the GM wouldn't approve such a character, though...
We also need way more images. "Mine" does NOT look much like a Skittermander, ghost or not
Sadly, they didn't publish a ghost template in Alien Archive.
I imagine Starfinder character avatars should be appearing soon. If you look around under animal or monstrous humanoid or magical beast, you might find something better.
So let's have a look at Wint.
Initiative should be +5. Operative's Edge applies to initiative.
Skills: Skill values look correct, but you should have two more skill ranks. Operatives get the ranks for their specialization skills for free (see Specialization, pg. 93).
I'd prefer it if you listed each skill on a separate line, showing what bonuses you have, kinda like this:
Acrobatics: +11 (1 rank, +4 DEX, +3 Class, +3 Insight)
Athletics: +5 (1 rank, +0 STR, +3 Class, +1 Insight)...
And so on. It's a bit extra work but if you copy and paste it doesn't take much.
I'd also like it if you had an entry showing your theme and class abilities. You don't need a full explanation for each one (but a point-form one would help). I know there isn't much at 1st level but humour me. :)
The campaign will start with you joining the Starfinder Society, so you shouldn't actually be a member yet. Being the "mascot" of another ship wouldn't necessarily make you a member though so you could work in the idea that you got sent to the Lorespire complex to make an application.
I also wouldn't mind seeing something about another crew member that didn't find Wint's antics adorable, and didn't have much of a sense of humour, mainly to see an example of how Wint would end up dealing with that.
Before I get too into the writing, I would like it if someone could take a glance at my character and make sure she's all in order.
All right, let's have a look at Phantom-6.
You should have one more ability score point (remember your theme grants a +1). Usually you would put it in a score that would let you qualify for feats, so I'd probably go with INT. If there are no feats like that which you want then CON is probably best.
Initiative should be +5. Operative's Edge applies to initiative.
Survival knife is an operative weapon so you use DEX to hit (should be +4). Operative weapons work like weapon finesse.
I have no problem with the sniper rifle but FYI you cannot use it to make a trick attack. If you want a cheap small arm there is always the needler pistol. Then again, with 1d10 damage, the trick attack may not be necessary.
Skill values look correct.
I'd prefer it if you listed each skill on a separate line, showing what bonuses you have, kinda like this:
Acrobatics: +11 (1 rank, +4 DEX, +3 Class, +3 Insight)
Athletics: +5 (1 rank, +0 STR, +3 Class, +1 Insight)...
And so on. It's a bit extra work but if you copy and paste it doesn't take much.
Also, include your theme ability with your class abilities.
However, remember that new "born" androids are a blank slate, and are not pre-programmed. Though they learn fast, they are born without skills or knowledge, and learn things in the same way that humans do (language may be an exception). So you would have to explain where your skills came from.
BTW, if your character is not on the above lists, it means I missed your submission. So please speak up!
Before I get too into the writing, I would like it if someone could take a glance at my character and make sure she's all in order.All right, let's have a look at Phantom-6.
** spoiler omitted **
** spoiler omitted **
Okay, I can expand out the skills when I finish writing the backstory. That won't be a problem. And thanks for pointing out the operative thing, I totally missed that.
I will explain more thoroughly later, but Phantom-6 will actually be a few years old during the game itself. She's had time to develop some abilities, just not enough time to totally decipher the message that had been left behind.
Just to make sure, I haven't missed you giving feedback on Kraviranth, have I?
I present Ranif, a Dragonkin Soldier bonded to Kraviranth (who will post his character later). In his past, he was a temporary member of the Skyfire Legion, a mercenary company. As for the Spaceship combat role that he will fill best, it would be gunner since he has no other applicable skills for Spaceship combat.
Okay, let's have a look at Ranif:
I'd prefer it if you listed each skill on a separate line, showing what bonuses you have, kinda like this:
Acrobatics: +6 (1 rank, +2 DEX, +3 Class)
Athletics: +8 +7 (1 rank, +3 STR, +3 Class)... and so on.
Likewise when you get the chance, listing out class features and abilities one per line with brief explanations would also be good. Don't need that right now, you can wait for selection.
Gear:
* The prosthetic limb really does nothing except fit with a backstory. So you don't need to pay for it now. If you add some kind of enhancement to it that requires a prosthetic you can pay the 100 credits then, but I don't want starting characters giving up 10% of their starting cash just for story reasons.
* You have Infrared Sensors for your armor that give you darkvision, but Dragonkin already have darkvision. So unless you're buying this for someone else, it's pretty useless.
* You might want a ranged weapon of some kind. Possibly a thrown one (since STR is used) though thrown weapons have a crappy range. The light reaction cannon only costs 250.
Nothing wrong with the overall story. You could give me a name for maybe one of the leaders of the uprising where you lost the leg work with Kraviranth on that one) and possibly the place where it happened.
You also mention Silah in your list of NPCs but she(?) is not mentioned in your story.
I haven't looked at Kraviranth too closely yet so I may have some more comments about your fluff jointly.
Just to make sure, I haven't missed you giving feedback on Kraviranth, have I?
Nope, you're next on my list. Might have to wait a bit though as I have to do some actual work at my job now.
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I present Ranif, a Dragonkin Soldier bonded to Kraviranth (who will post his character later). In his past, he was a temporary member of the Skyfire Legion, a mercenary company. As for the Spaceship combat role that he will fill best, it would be gunner since he has no other applicable skills for Spaceship combat.Okay, let's have a look at Ranif:
** spoiler omitted **
** spoiler omitted **...
Thank you for the feedback.
I modified the skills as you would like them to be formatted. As for the Athletics skill, the extra +1 was coming from the Mercenary background.
I had somehow missed seeing that the Dragonkin got Darkvision, thanks for pointing that out. This spared up the credits to buy the light reaction cannon.
Also, thanks for not making me pay for the prosthetic leg.
I will eventually list out the class and race features.
For my characters height, the Alien archive also specifies that the 15-20 foot length is for terrestrial Dragonkin, while the spacefaring variety can be up to half as large (7-1/2 to 10 feet. Ranif is a space-faring variety, so he is perfectly within normal standards.
As for my background, I will update it soon as well.