In a way, the transition from the previous editions core setting to 4e’s core setting was an attempt not unlike the attempts by DC and Marvel Comics to clean up their continuity so as to allow new readers (players) an easier entry point and to recreate the continuity to fit together better. DC’s Crisis on Infinite Earths was the trend-setter there, but the analogue that works better for me is Marvel’s Ultimate line.
When in doubt, have them grow wings
I’ve written before about the many mean things I’ve done in horror RPGs. There’s another technique that I enjoy in any games that I run that ties into that, but doesn’t have to be mean. I enjoy transforming people’s characters.
Online Game Wrap Up: Status Ailments and Saving Throws
There is a mechanic that I have decidedly mixed feelings about: saving throws and ongoing conditions. 4E alleviated much of this problem, as most crippling effects require the Wizard to hit his enemy AND have a 50% chance of ending each round. My question is, having been immobilized or stunned for more than half a 4E combat, is this toning down enough?
Power Attack the Shoggoth
As noted previously, I’m a huge fan of the d20 Call of Cthluhu book. With it, I ran my favorite campaign of all time, and the rules were exactly the level I wanted them. Except… the feat selection sucked.
Paying the Buy-In
When starting a new campaign (or even just planning a one-shot), it’s tough to get people into a new game. Thus, the game usually ends up being D&D. Now, there’s nothing wrong with it being D&D, but with so many RPGs out there, I enjoy a bit of variety when I can get it.
Why is it so tough? Because the “buy-in” total for the game is too high.
The Pain of Campaigning IV: Put a Little Politics in it
One of the hallmarks of my DMing style is the political element. My games tend to focus on character development and overarching story, with combats serving to accentuate those aspects. One of the key fuels for this kind of game are nations, kings, countries and gods all jockeying for position. It is crucial in this style of game to involve the players in the details without overshadowing them.
How a Wiki can Excite Players
You can find all kinds of advice on how to use a wiki to help out your roleplaying campaign, but there is one aspect I discovered during the last game I played in which I don’t think I’ve seen mentioned by anyone. Sure wiki can be great for keeping track of loot, NPC’s, and plot […]
Are you ready to ROCK?
Thoughts on the official 4e D&D Bard, comparisons to the other 4e Bards recently released, and a look back on old 4e speculation.
The Big Switch
Today, I have made a big decision. For the past two and a half years, I’ve received a monthly comic shipment straight to my door. It was a time when I was buying and reading a lot of comics, and wanted to be in from the beginning on 52, the first of DC Comics series […]
And also, the end of the D&D Miniatures game
As Graham points out, Scott Rouse (brand manager for D&D) made a post on Wizards yesterday that explains the changes. To me, the most important part of the whole thing is: November’s release of Demonweb will be the last new set that includes skirmish statistics… official sanctioning of D&D Miniatures skirmish events will cease right after D&D Experience in February. I […]
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