New Game, New Rules, New PBP GM

[LonePaladin]

Well, I've been posting to this place for about three months now, and I'm going to take the plunge.

No, not off a bridge (despite was Cadrius may think).:paranoid: I'm actually going to run a game of my own.

It'll be D&D, naturally, and I want everyone to start with 1st-level characters. I'll be using the Forgotten Realms material (I currently have the core books, all the WotC splatbooks, and the FRCS, Magic of Faerun, and F&P), so Realmsian concepts are encouraged.

There's a couple things that may be different, though.

First off, there will be more roleplaying than combat; it'll be mostly based within civilization, probably Waterdeep. (I have a LOT of detail about Waterdeep in particular.) Rewards will reflect this, naturally -- you'll get XP for more than just killing things.

Also, I won't be using the regular rules for combat, should it occur. Basically, I plan on using the Grim & Gritty Hit Point Rules by Kenneth S. Hood. This was originally written for his Sleeping Imperium setting, but he's adapted it to make it compatible with D&D in general. The file's a little hard to find right now (can't figure out why), but I can put a copy in the File section here or e-mail it if you want to take a look at it.

In general, the above rules make combat a LOT more lethal. Don't expect creatures to be charging into combat, fighting to the death. Anyone that draws a sword is making an honest attempt to kill, not just wound. And magic, even with the rules they have for toning it down, can be devastating. In short, the game is going to come out looking a lot like the novels; people don't just shrug off their injuries and keep swinging, people DIE.

Anyone interested in playing should reply to this post; also, if you have suggestions for me (because this'll be the first time I run a game without a table in front of me), they will be greatly appreciated.

If I get enough interested responses, I'll see if Leechess will give me a forum, and the game will begin at that time. Once some people start showing interest, I'll follow this post with character-creation guidelines and a brief primer on G&G combat.

[LonePaladin]

Okay, I guess I need to explain how I'll be setting this up before anyone commits to it. So here are the rules for character creation, and a brief run-down on G&G stuff so that you know what to expect.

Character Creation: Ability Scores

Ability scores will be using the Default Array. That's 15, 14, 13, 12, 10, and 8, before applying racial mods. I know, it's not the best way to do things, but it puts everyone on an even field. The characters will be heroes, and a cut above the norm -- but they won't be Supermen.

Character Creation: Races

All of the races from the PH and FRCS are allowed. Note that, if you take a race with an ECL (such as drow), you can start with everyone else, and you'll have a definite edge at first... but plan on staying at first level for a LONG time.

Basically, if you have an ECL, it affects the point at which you actually gain levels. Drow, for instance (+2 levels) will stay at 1st level until everyone else is ready to be 4th level. Only then will that character be able to add a level, because then their level will be 2 (class levels) +2 (ECL) = 4.

Character Creation: Classes

All of the PH classes are acceptable. I do not currently have constant access to the Psionics Handbook, so (sadly) I cannot allow the Psion or Psychic Warrior.

Also, I will only allow one person (maybe two, if I get enough) to be a wizard or sorcerer, because magic is a LOT more dangerous with the rules I'll be using. A party of sorcerers would make the game practically unplayable, especially if they decide they don't want to talk and just sling damage around.

If you are considering taking a Prestige Class, be sure to figure out which one BEFORE you make the character, or shortly thereafter. That way, you're not having to wait an extra three or four levels to qualify for it.

Prestige classes from all five splatbooks (Sword & Fist etc.), the FRCS, Magic of Faerun, and Faiths and Pantheons are acceptable.

Character Creation: Skills

Only one skill is changed, really.

Knowledge: You don't just buy ranks in Knowledge (local); you have to specify the regions you know, similar to how the Perform skill works. Also, for every two ranks of this skill you have, you can ignore the regional requirement for one feat.

You can do the regional specifying for other feats as well, taking skills like Knowledge (Sembian history) or Knowledge (Waterdhavian nobility & royalty). This skill will work just like the regular skill, but if something falls within the area you specified, the check DC is 2 points lower.

Character Creation: Feats

Some minor changes to how a few feats work.

Deflect Arrows: Add this line: If you beat the check DC by 10 or more, you catch the missile instead of merely deflecting it.
Skill Focus: This grants a +3 bonus to one skill, rather than +2.

Regional Feats: As detailed in the FRCS, if you are from a region where your class is favored, 2-4 regional feats become available to you. You get the same thing for being a demihuman. You do not get these feats for free. Also, for every two ranks of Knowledge (local) you have, you can buy one regional feat that you don't normally qualify for (although non-regional prerequisites still have to be met).

Character Creation: Description

First, alignments. I'm assuming that everyone will want to be the heroes, so no evil alignments. However, if everyone shows an interest in a mixed group with internal conflict a common event, I MAY allow evil characters. My style of GMing tends to support the good guys better, though.

One interesting point, in making up descriptions: per the FRCS, elves and half-elves don't use the PH tables for height and weight as printed. Here are the changes:
Base Height Base Weight
Race Height Modifier Weight Modifier
Elf, man 4' 10" +2d10 90 lb ×2d4 lb.
Elf, woman 4' 5" +2d10 70 lb ×2d4 lb.
Elf (drow), man 4' 5" +2d6 85 lb ×1d6 lb.
Elf (drow), woman 4' 5" +2d6 80 lb ×1d6 lb.
Half-elf, man 4' 10" +2d10 100 lb ×2d4 lb.
Half-elf, woman 4' 5" +2d10 80 lb ×2d4 lb.
Half-elf (drow), man 4' 7" +2d8 100 lb ×2d4 lb.
Half-elf (drow), woman 4' 5" +2d8 80 lb ×2d4 lb.
Character Creation: Equipment
I'll be fairly generous on starting gear. For your class, assume that each d4 you would roll for money comes up with a 3; thus, a fighter would get 180 gp for starting gear. Anything in the PH and splatbooks is fair game.

Also, if you pick a class that is favored in the region your character is from, you will get some extra starting gear, as detailed in the FRCS. If you need some help figuring that out, or don't have the book, just let me know what you have (or what kind of environment you're looking to be from), and I'll help you out.

Magic items are ok for starters (since all you'll really be able to afford is scrolls and potions).

Combat

This is the complicated part, because the rules I'll be using drastically change the way hit points and armor work. Basically, expect to have fewer hit points; armor will not longer make you harder to HIT, but will make you harder to HURT. More on that if I get enough interest.

Magic

The spells will be unchanged from the books, except for one minor change with damage-inflicting spells. In a nutshell, spells will average less damage, but still have the odd chance of getting insanely high numbers. People don't shrug off a lightning bolt with these rules; people die.

Now that these ground-rules are laid down, let me know if you're still interested.

[Edited on 11/14/02, adding the Skills and Feats sections.]

[SponkleofInfini]

I am interested...............very interested............but what's new :)

[SponkleofInfini]

Will you allow Grey Elves from the MM?

[LonePaladin]

MM Grey Elves are known as Sun Elves in FR. Their only difference is their ability score mods: +2 Intelligence, -2 Constitution.

One other thing about elves: their eyes. Unlike most humanoid races, elves eyes have slit pupils, like a cat's. They, quite simply, do NOT look human.:evolved:

[itches]

I want in. I've been talking to you over IM about the character. I'll try and get her together.

[SponkleofInfini]

I will stake my claim at a wizard then.

[LonePaladin]

Fine; you're a sun elf wizard. Just keep in mind that you've already denied anyone else the option, since I'm only allowing one arcane spellcaster (excluding bards), unless I end up with a LOT of people wanting to play.

That, and I needed to make a post to keep this forum on the front page. :)

[SponkleofInfini]

First best dressed I say :)

[itches]

Ah, just want clarification on a few things.

It’s been a while, and I can’t remember, you get a set of clothing for free don’t you?

Also, are we allowed to take potions?

[SponkleofInfini]

Clothing is free, your first set anyway any more and it will cost you normal fee.

[Gnarsh]

I'll play. perhaps a bard....

[LonePaladin]

Any items are okay. Well, let me qualify that: MOST items are okay. I really can't come up with a list of banned items, but if you make sure to stick with items you can afford, and those you can use, you should be fine.

Potions and scrolls are about the only magical items you'll be able to afford, and not many of them. A single potion of cure light wounds costs 50 gp, and you really don't have that much.

Basically, the starting gear and money you'll have may allow you a masterwork weapon or armor, and some high-quality gear, but be sure to pick up mundane items. And don't run yourself broke; you don't know what you'll be getting into yet.

Gnarsh, a bard will do just fine, depending on how you set him up. All we need now is a divine spellcaster and a warrior or two.

[itches]

I'll be taking plenty of potions then. And who needs fighting characters? all we need is a walking forst aid kit. In this type of game, we really need it.

[LonePaladin]

That's why you need a divine spellcaster, but not just for the healing spells.

For those of you who are looking at this, and thinking of playing a cleric: I have, quite possibly, the comprehensive collection of information on Faerun's deities: the entire Faiths & Avatars trilogy, the Forgotten Realms Adventures hardcover (which, admittedly, ain't much), some of the older 1st-edition books, and the new Faiths and Pantheons (which is really an update to the F&A series). So someone playing a cleric will have access to just about everything they need to know about their faith.

Also, I don't assume that clerics are just there for their ability to cast cure [whatever] wounds spells all day. That's the main reason good clerics have been given the ability to cast those spells without preparing them: it gives them flexibility, since they don't have to consign their spell ability to fixing people.

In short, I encourage anyone else looking this stuff over to play a cleric. The group will appreciate it, of course, but I promise I'll do things to keep it interesting for you.

[itches]

Hmm, if i didnt like this character so much, i might of tryed a cleric. I've never played one of them before.

Still on with my Rogue, i've almost got it finished, i'm just screwing around with the Equipment. Hardly anything there, and already its a Medium load :\

[LonePaladin]

Well, I've now reached two milestones.

First, I've just sent an e-mail to Leechess requesting a forum for this game. No idea when I'll get an answer, but last time I sent something I got a response in about half an hour.

Second, this is my 100th post. I'm now in the triple digits, and have no plans on looking back. Congrats to you guys for ensnaring another long-term member! :)

In other news, I'm assuming that Sponkle and Gnarsh are waiting for the real forum before creating characters. Either that, or I've given enough information for them to do so without any more input. Anyway, once the forum is up we'll get things rolling. Keep your appendages crossed.

[SponkleofInfini]

It dosen't take me all that long to make a character, hey I have has alot of practice. I'll wait for the forum before posting a character though.

[Azrharn]

Can I hop in? If so I'll take a Pally....

[LonePaladin]

Feel free to jump in. A martial-type would be helpful, and -- assuming you don't neglect your Charisma score -- the extra healing ability might save a life or two.

[itches]

YaY
someone who can heal!!!

[LonePaladin]

Well, I've sent off the request for a forum, but haven't yet seen a reply. Any idea how long this usually takes?

[itches]

Depends on how much you bug him :)

Give it a short while then send another. Start sending PM's to Leechesss. Dig up his old cat and hang it off his front door. Just generaly get his attention

[PaVel]

he doesn't own a cat

they have two birds though

[LonePaladin]

Great! All I need is one stone!

[LeeCHeSSS]

I warn thee, stay clear of my birds!

*wanders off being forgetful some more*

[SuperJosh]

If you are still looking for players I will volunteer to play a band ai- I mean cleric. Just let me know if you want another player and if so what faiths would be best. I have FRCS, ut am by NO means an expert.

[itches]

Told ya that would work :ditsy:

And ¨k¨aYaY, we have our First-Aid kit .. I mean representitive of the gods.

[LonePaladin]

Originally posted by SuperJosh
If you are still looking for players I will volunteer to play a band ai- I mean cleric. Just let me know if you want another player and if so what faiths would be best. I have FRCS, ut am by NO means an expert.

First off, you won't be just a field medic. In my real-life game, most of the tough fights have been won by the cleric's actions -- either a well-placed spell, or just wading in swinging. They are FAR more useful in this edition than in any other version of the game.

There are a lot of things to take into account in picking a faith. Your character's race is one: most demihumans don't worship human deities (with a few exceptions). Another thing to remember is the faith's tenets, and the personality they embody. Just remember that you can't be evil, so taking an evil god is likely to not be an option. (It CAN be done, but it's a difficult road to walk.)

Give me an idea of what you want to be: what race, where you're from, what kind of concept you're thinking of. I can supply an appropriate deity or two. And trust me, you'll have more to do than just heal people all day.

[edit]

The forum is now active, though Leechess lost the name. I just e-mailed it back to him, but I'm going to start making the necessary parts right now.

[itches]

OI, LonePaladin. Stop giving out First-aid Kit Bad ideas. Interesting characterindeed:mad:

[SuperJosh]

I will probably play a human or halfelf. As for where I am from, and stuff like that. I will look through the FRCS this weekend and let you know in Mon.

I was just kidding about being a band aid btw. I read your post that said that this would be a low combat campaign.

[LonePaladin]

There very well might be a moderate amount of combat in the game, it won't always involve people trying to maim each other -- like in real life, not every fight involves weapons. People will generally resort to non-lethal means, unless they're insane, inhuman, or actually intend to kill.

[Azrharn]

can you just give me an over all idea of what to follow to make my paladin?

[LonePaladin]

Whichever deity you pick must be lawful good, or no more than one "step" away (lawful neutral, or neutral good), with only one exception: Sune. Some deities allow their paladins to multiclass with one other class (or a small selection) at no penalty; if you're interested in multiclassing, let me know which class and I'll see if a deity fits.

Most paladins are from Cormyr, the Dalelands, Damara, Luiren, Impiltur, Mulhorand, Silverymoon, Tethyr, and Waterdeep.

The deities who meet the requirement? Well, it's a long list:

Azuth, Chauntea, Deneir, Eldath, Gwaeron Windstrom, Helm, Hoar, Ilmater, Jergal, Kelemvor, Kossuth, Lathander, Mielikki, Milil, Mystra, Nobanion, the Red Knight, Savras, Shiallia, Siamorphe, Sune, Torm, and Tyr from the Faerun pantheon; Hathor, Horus-Re, Isis, and Osiris from the Mulhorandi pantheon; Berronar Truesilver, Glangeddin Silverbeard, Gorm Gulthyn, Marthammor Duin, and Moradin from the dwarven pantheon; all of the gnome pantheon except Urdlen; all of the halfling pantheon except Brandobaris and Sheela Peryroyl. Notice that none of the elven pantheons (surface or drow) normally have paladins, because both pantheons are of chaotic alignments. Elven paladins are a bit of an aberration, because they usually worship a human deity.

[Azrharn]

can you msg me some rough descriptions of the following dieties?
Azuth, Tyr, Isis, Lathander, Damara, and Mulhorand.

[Azrharn]

Ok I'll be a Pally who worships Tyr(I know rather stereotypical but hey i like tyr the most) now to find a copy of the 3rd edition of the phb...ack...

[LonePaladin]

Most people who see Tyrists EXPECT them to be paladins -- or, at least, to act like them. (Frankly, I'm not THAT strict on paladins. They're NOT like the Cavaliers from the old Unearthed Arcana book, with eight hundred rules to live by, most of which make adventuring with one impossible.)

[Azrharn]

thats ok..i know excactly what kind of paladin i want..

[Azrharn]

has the game been started?

[LonePaladin]

About a week ago. It's here (http://www.forasake.com/~danny/forums/forumdisplay.php?s=&forumid=162).