As a gamemaster, I’m not into strict adherence to the rules. If it fits helps the story along, I’m all about fudging things. When it comes to things like whether a bad guy is within the radius of a spell, I tend to err on the side of the player character— unless the players are … Continue reading »
Tagged with d&d …
Impressions of D&D Next
Having downloaded and read through the playtest material, and spoken to several folks who have playtested it, here’s my impression so far: First, there is a very strong “let’s pretend 3rd and 4th editions never existed” vibe. Some of that is to pander to the Old School Revolution, some of that seems an acknowledgement that … Continue reading »
For Your Consideration: One Page Dungeon
This year, I am actually entering the One Page Dungeon 2012 competition. I’ve been a judge before, but I’ve never written anything. For those who don’t already know, One Page dungeon is an annual event where people create, well, a one page dungeon. They’re judged, donated prizes are awarded, and then they’re all compiled and … Continue reading »
Empire of the Petal Throne (Original Manuscript)
This is a copy of the original manuscript for Empire of the Petal Throne, written prior to the version published by TSR. Professor M.A.R. Barker only did a limited run of 50 copies back in 1974, and this is the first time this material is available to the general public. If you’re an Old School … Continue reading »
Pathfinder: Orc Encounter
This is an attempt to use the ideas outlined in a previous post on building encounters quickly and easily. 1. Pick a Monster I’m going to start with something simple and reasonably common: an orc encounter. Use Orc from the Bestiary. 2. Generate Treasure I give him a minor magic item, and randomly roll a … Continue reading »
Pathfinder: Building an Encounter
As a gamemaster, I always like to have some “filler” encounters prepared ahead of time. That way, if I don’t have time to prep for the regular campaign, i can pull something out and run it. There’s basic formula that I follow, which is quick and easy, and a pretty fun way to kill free … Continue reading »
Skullport Tales 21
Continuing from last session, the party helps clean up after the attack at the wedding and are provided lodging for the night by the townspeople. In the morning they set off to locate the local druid, who is said to have more information about the spriggans and the warped gnome beekeeper. They are met by … Continue reading »
Pathfinder: Hacking Perception Checks
After “roll for initiative”, I think “make a perception check” is probably the most frequently uttered phrase around my game table. Did you notice that monster sneaking up behind you? Did you spot the clue laying in the corner? Did you catch the hint that there’s a trap right in front of you? While the … Continue reading »
Skullport Tales 20
Continuing from our last update, the party arrives at their destination, the town of Bellas, to deliver the elf girl Marlil over to the wizard Telgara so she can be trained up as Telgara’s apprentice. It is late afternoon, and they find the Bellas getting ready for a large and important wedding. A lot of … Continue reading »
Skullport Tales: Actual Play 18/19
Continuing from our last report, the party and their new friend Gilraen Smith wander into the city of Longsaddle to stop for the night. It’s quiet. Way too quiet. The party is a bit jumpy, knowing that they’re apparently being stalked by drow assassins. Not all of them trust the girl Marlil, whom they’ve been … Continue reading »
