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General Category => Off the Record => Gaming HQ => Topic started by: CountDeMoney on June 11, 2017, 10:27:57 PM

Title: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: CountDeMoney on June 11, 2017, 10:27:57 PM
You people see this yet?

(https://languish.org/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.modiphius.com%2Fuploads%2F1%2F4%2F0%2F6%2F14062642%2Feditor%2Fstar-trek-grey-cover-mock-up-promo-no-logos-1.png%3F1496865415&hash=fa45642808c1a1a278b7b1091438b30d7c0a1519)

http://www.modiphius.com/star-trek.html

I dunno, man...I don't see a FASA logo on anything... :mad: 

Nice dice, though
https://www.modiphius.net/collections/star-trek-adventures

Check out the figures you can KS for, Brain.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on June 11, 2017, 10:48:40 PM
I can paint the Picard! :w00t:
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: jimmy olsen on June 11, 2017, 11:10:46 PM
Quote from: The Brain on June 11, 2017, 10:48:40 PM
I can paint the Picard! :w00t:

Wouldn't you be more interested in Caitians?

http://memory-alpha.wikia.com/wiki/Caitian
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Sophie Scholl on June 12, 2017, 05:00:51 PM
I'm about to join in a campaign in the Tolkien setting/ruleset of The One Ring.  I'm looking forward to it quite a bit after several years off.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on June 12, 2017, 05:18:49 PM
Quote from: Benedict Arnold on June 12, 2017, 05:00:51 PM
I'm about to join in a campaign in the Tolkien setting/ruleset of The One Ring.  I'm looking forward to it quite a bit after several years off.

Used to play the shit out of MERP back in the day. Haven't played The One Ring.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on June 12, 2017, 05:19:32 PM
Quote from: jimmy olsen on June 11, 2017, 11:10:46 PM
Quote from: The Brain on June 11, 2017, 10:48:40 PM
I can paint the Picard! :w00t:

Wouldn't you be more interested in Caitians?

http://memory-alpha.wikia.com/wiki/Caitian

Half humans? :yuk:
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Ed Anger on June 12, 2017, 07:41:16 PM
There is a new edition of Paranoia out too.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Sophie Scholl on June 12, 2017, 08:41:51 PM
Quote from: The Brain on June 12, 2017, 05:18:49 PM
Quote from: Benedict Arnold on June 12, 2017, 05:00:51 PM
I'm about to join in a campaign in the Tolkien setting/ruleset of The One Ring.  I'm looking forward to it quite a bit after several years off.

Used to play the shit out of MERP back in the day. Haven't played The One Ring.
It seems like a very Tolkien-esque style from what I've read and done in character creation.  Combat is only 1/3 of the game with a lot of emphasis on travel and diplomacy.  I'm definitely looking forward to seeing how the setting works.  I've read through some of the MERP books, but never played that system.  I played a whole campaign in the Decipher LotR setting/ruleset which was fun, but didn't feel as LotR-y as I was looking for.  I've had thoughts of putting together a campaign set during the slow collapse of Gondor and the fall of Minas Ithil.  I think it could be fun to work with.  Some of the mechanics of the The One Ring ruleset seem like they would be a cool fit, including the slow fall into shadow and corruption, the ability to have generations of characters, and the simplified combat system.  We shall see...
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: CountDeMoney on June 12, 2017, 08:59:39 PM
Yeah, we played MERP back in the day; really loved the system, even if it was a bit more bookkeeping. I'm glad they have the One Ring system out, as opposed to the D&D 5.0 Adventures in Middle Earth crossover.  Tolkien deserves its own rules system.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Habbaku on June 13, 2017, 12:54:59 AM
Still playing Werewolf: The Apocalypse my way, though I'm going to be seriously lobbying my group to shift over to the A Song of Ice and Fire RPG in the near future. I'm not a huge fan of the Storyteller system that WTA uses (the dice resolution is a little too non-granular for my tastes), but the setting and the lore behind the game are excellent, so I stick with it.

If I thought I could find players that were as into it as I am, I'd run the old Pendragon RPG or something like John Wick's Blood and Honor.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: celedhring on June 13, 2017, 02:43:00 AM
Wish I had the commitment to play pen and paper RPGs. We tried to get an old school Star Wars D6 campaign going, but we never got past 3 sessions. It's all boardgames for us now.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: crazy canuck on June 13, 2017, 09:09:36 AM
Quote from: CountDeMoney on June 12, 2017, 08:59:39 PM
Yeah, we played MERP back in the day; really loved the system, even if it was a bit more bookkeeping. I'm glad they have the One Ring system out, as opposed to the D&D 5.0 Adventures in Middle Earth crossover.  Tolkien deserves its own rules system.

It did with Rolemaster  :)
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Tamas on June 13, 2017, 09:21:45 AM
Quote from: celedhring on June 13, 2017, 02:43:00 AM
Wish I had the commitment to play pen and paper RPGs. We tried to get an old school Star Wars D6 campaign going, but we never got past 3 sessions. It's all boardgames for us now.

Yeah same here. I often feel like I should join a group, or rather, get my old tiny one together via online methods. But if I am honest to myself, I realise I just wouldn't be willing to commit the amount of free time it requires. What used to be an easy thing as a student, is a huge proportion of the currently available free time. :(
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: CountDeMoney on June 13, 2017, 09:26:21 AM
Quote from: celedhring on June 13, 2017, 02:43:00 AM
Wish I had the commitment to play pen and paper RPGs. We tried to get an old school Star Wars D6 campaign going, but we never got past 3 sessions. It's all boardgames for us now.

That's because at our age, it's too much work.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Tonitrus on June 13, 2017, 06:49:46 PM
Quote from: crazy canuck on June 13, 2017, 09:09:36 AM
Quote from: CountDeMoney on June 12, 2017, 08:59:39 PM
Yeah, we played MERP back in the day; really loved the system, even if it was a bit more bookkeeping. I'm glad they have the One Ring system out, as opposed to the D&D 5.0 Adventures in Middle Earth crossover.  Tolkien deserves its own rules system.

It did with Rolemaster  :)

I remember liking the little blurbs on the critical damage tables.  :sleep:
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Tonitrus on June 13, 2017, 06:52:08 PM
Also, the Fellowship of the Ring board game, which I recall being based on the MERP system (it was made by ICE, after all), was freakin awesome.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Ed Anger on June 13, 2017, 06:56:59 PM
Spacemaster was a hoot.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: PDH on June 13, 2017, 09:21:36 PM
Still play GURPS a fair bit - we try to do a Google+ video room on fridays, and saturdays is set aside for a fantasy world that has been ongoing for about 8 years now.  I have mentioned the previous campaign(s) we did for the 20 years prior to that...

We are old, Scott's son is a sophomore in college and plays, and old duffers are in our 50s now.  Still, we have some teens, some 20s, some 30s, one guy in his forties, and us.  I don't think I am going to stop any time soon.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Barrister on June 13, 2017, 11:38:23 PM
Quote from: PDH on June 13, 2017, 09:21:36 PM
Still play GURPS a fair bit - we try to do a Google+ video room on fridays, and saturdays is set aside for a fantasy world that has been ongoing for about 8 years now.  I have mentioned the previous campaign(s) we did for the 20 years prior to that...

We are old, Scott's son is a sophomore in college and plays, and old duffers are in our 50s now.  Still, we have some teens, some 20s, some 30s, one guy in his forties, and us.  I don't think I am going to stop any time soon.

That. Is. Awesome. :worship:
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Valmy on June 14, 2017, 07:38:03 AM
Quote from: PDH on June 13, 2017, 09:21:36 PM
Still play GURPS a fair bit - we try to do a Google+ video room on fridays, and saturdays is set aside for a fantasy world that has been ongoing for about 8 years now.  I have mentioned the previous campaign(s) we did for the 20 years prior to that...

We are old, Scott's son is a sophomore in college and plays, and old duffers are in our 50s now.  Still, we have some teens, some 20s, some 30s, one guy in his forties, and us.  I don't think I am going to stop any time soon.

Wow PDH you are so cool.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on June 14, 2017, 04:21:16 PM
Quote from: Tonitrus on June 13, 2017, 06:52:08 PM
Also, the Fellowship of the Ring board game, which I recall being based on the MERP system (it was made by ICE, after all), was freakin awesome.

It was a great game, played it a lot.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on June 14, 2017, 04:22:28 PM
Quote from: PDH on June 13, 2017, 09:21:36 PM
saturdays is set aside for a fantasy world

Same at my house.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: CountDeMoney on June 14, 2017, 04:48:55 PM
Quote from: The Brain on June 14, 2017, 04:21:16 PM
Quote from: Tonitrus on June 13, 2017, 06:52:08 PM
Also, the Fellowship of the Ring board game, which I recall being based on the MERP system (it was made by ICE, after all), was freakin awesome.

It was a great game, played it a lot.

Some of those ICE MERP modules go for a gold mine these days.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on June 14, 2017, 04:58:42 PM
Quote from: CountDeMoney on June 14, 2017, 04:48:55 PM
Quote from: The Brain on June 14, 2017, 04:21:16 PM
Quote from: Tonitrus on June 13, 2017, 06:52:08 PM
Also, the Fellowship of the Ring board game, which I recall being based on the MERP system (it was made by ICE, after all), was freakin awesome.

It was a great game, played it a lot.

Some of those ICE MERP modules go for a gold mine these days.

I picked up several of those I didn't already have for a pittance in the mid-90s. :smarty:
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Tonitrus on June 14, 2017, 05:41:44 PM
Quote from: CountDeMoney on June 14, 2017, 04:48:55 PM
Quote from: The Brain on June 14, 2017, 04:21:16 PM
Quote from: Tonitrus on June 13, 2017, 06:52:08 PM
Also, the Fellowship of the Ring board game, which I recall being based on the MERP system (it was made by ICE, after all), was freakin awesome.

It was a great game, played it a lot.

Some of those ICE MERP modules go for a gold mine these days.

My brother still has our joint collection (not likely a mint, as the condition of many is questionable...they were quite well-read).  I think the only one we were never able to get was the original Umbar: Haven of the Corsairs.

I am pretty sure our copy of the FotR boardgame is among the worst (and scattered mostly to the winds).
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Ed Anger on June 14, 2017, 06:45:03 PM
Seedy buys Palladium RPGs.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: CountDeMoney on June 14, 2017, 06:54:23 PM
Quote from: Ed Anger on June 14, 2017, 06:45:03 PM
Seedy buys Palladium RPGs.
:bleeding:

RECON FTW

:yeah:
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Ed Anger on June 14, 2017, 07:56:15 PM
I've seen Seedy's character sheets. Chicks with dicks.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: CountDeMoney on June 14, 2017, 08:34:02 PM
1-4 1d6 = Surprised!
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Ed Anger on June 14, 2017, 08:48:17 PM
Roll for erections!
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Sophie Scholl on June 15, 2017, 01:06:51 AM
Quote from: CountDeMoney on June 14, 2017, 04:48:55 PM
Quote from: The Brain on June 14, 2017, 04:21:16 PM
Quote from: Tonitrus on June 13, 2017, 06:52:08 PM
Also, the Fellowship of the Ring board game, which I recall being based on the MERP system (it was made by ICE, after all), was freakin awesome.

It was a great game, played it a lot.

Some of those ICE MERP modules go for a gold mine these days.
I've managed to... acquire most of them in .pdf format.  :pirate
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Delirium on July 23, 2017, 10:37:56 AM
We have a group of ~45 year-olds meeting on an irregular basis, 1d3 times a month. Cthulhu, Star Wars, some old-school fantasy or sci-fi. Lately I've developed an itch to play either Gamma World or Twilight 2000 (one of the really old editions, of course). Don't know why really.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: CountDeMoney on July 23, 2017, 10:39:06 AM
Quote from: Benedict Arnold on June 15, 2017, 01:06:51 AM
Quote from: CountDeMoney on June 14, 2017, 04:48:55 PM
Some of those ICE MERP modules go for a gold mine these days.
I've managed to... acquire most of them in .pdf format.  :pirate

Not the same. 
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: CountDeMoney on July 23, 2017, 10:40:51 AM
Quote from: Delirium on July 23, 2017, 10:37:56 AM
Lately I've developed an itch to play either Gamma World or Twilight 2000 (one of the really old editions, of course). Don't know why really.

Probably because a post-apocalyptic world is more possible now than ever before. #BiglyArmageddon :)
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on July 23, 2017, 11:28:52 AM
Quote from: Delirium on July 23, 2017, 10:37:56 AM
We have a group of ~45 year-olds meeting on an irregular basis, 1d3 times a month. Cthulhu, Star Wars, some old-school fantasy or sci-fi. Lately I've developed an itch to play either Gamma World or Twilight 2000 (one of the really old editions, of course). Don't know why really.

How do you get old farts together that often?
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: CountDeMoney on July 23, 2017, 11:36:17 AM
Quote from: The Brain on July 23, 2017, 11:28:52 AM
How do you get old farts together that often?

There's a certain age bracket reached where, once guys have met women, produced children and become occupied with them accordingly, they actively attempt to get away from them as much as possible. 

That's why all the most successful traveling salesmen and consultants are middle-aged.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Ed Anger on July 24, 2017, 07:44:05 PM
I hide in my basement.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Delirium on August 04, 2017, 04:15:13 PM
That is correct, guys are dying to get away from the house from time to time.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Sophie Scholl on September 14, 2017, 01:45:34 PM
Humble Bundle of Warhammer RPG books!  I already own just about all of them, but I think I might nab it anyway to shore up the collection.

https://www.humblebundle.com/books/warhammer-rpg-books
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Jacob on September 14, 2017, 09:02:55 PM
I think I own all of them except maybe three... and I'm still tempted.

Looking forward to both of the upcoming Warhammer RPGs from Cubicle 7.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Habbaku on September 14, 2017, 10:47:41 PM
I'm looking forward to the next iteration in the Pendragon "series":

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/nocturnalmedia/paladin-warriors-of-charlemagne

QuoteSet in medieval Europe, PALADIN weaves together the historical Carolingian events and the medieval epics of The Matter of France into a single coherent chronology! 

In PALADIN the players play young Frankish squires or knights in the service of one of Charlemagne's powerful vassals. By going on adventures they will acquire glory and riches, become lords of their own lands, build castles and found their own family. 

Hopefully, the road to fame will lead to the ultimate goal: becoming one of the legendary paladins themselves, along the likes of Roland, Ogier the Dane, Renaud, Oliver, William Shortnose, and others!
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Scipio on September 21, 2017, 12:20:31 PM
What is the easiest system for entry-level gaming these days? D&D? Something else? I'm way out of touch and could use a recommendation.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on September 21, 2017, 12:26:51 PM
Quote from: Scipio on September 21, 2017, 12:20:31 PM
What is the easiest system for entry-level gaming these days? D&D? Something else? I'm way out of touch and could use a recommendation.

I would avoid D&D on account of it sucking.

At least in Sweden there's a bit of a wave of new simple entry-level RPGs, many of them with a back-to-the-dungeon theme (as opposed to the "let's tell a story, no rules!!!11" crap of the early 2000s). I don't remember which ones are in English, since I'm not in the market for entry-level stuff.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Barrister on September 21, 2017, 01:59:49 PM
I dunno, I think if you actually want to buy a game with the intention of playing it with other people your best bet is probably some form of D&D.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on October 17, 2017, 01:18:19 PM
I just got delivery of a fuckton of books for the new Conan RPG. Got some reading to do...
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: CountDeMoney on October 17, 2017, 01:26:12 PM
Quote from: The Brain on October 17, 2017, 01:18:19 PM
I just got delivery of a fuckton of books for the new Conan RPG. Got some reading to do...

If you have any Warhammer 40k books, you may want to check their resale prices, some Deathwatch and Rogue Trader books are hitting $200+ USD these days.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on October 17, 2017, 01:28:29 PM
Quote from: CountDeMoney on October 17, 2017, 01:26:12 PM
Quote from: The Brain on October 17, 2017, 01:18:19 PM
I just got delivery of a fuckton of books for the new Conan RPG. Got some reading to do...

If you have any Warhammer 40k books, you may want to check their resale prices, some Deathwatch and Rogue Trader books are hitting $200+ USD these days.

Ooh, nice. I got lots.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: CountDeMoney on October 17, 2017, 01:36:51 PM
Yeah, I figured you would :D

I'm jettisoning all of mine, but I figured I'd see prices in the $25-$45 range; there's a good half dozen I've seen hit $80 to $120.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Sophie Scholl on October 19, 2017, 12:53:35 AM
After more than a month off, my group finally managed to (mostly) all attend a session and continue our adventures in Middle Earth using Cubicle One's The One Ring series.  I've always been a huge Tolkien fan and this series has managed to best capture the feeling of the setting in my opinion.  I am still sorely tempted to utilize old MERP books to come up with a campaign set during the fall of the North Kingdom.  I think it could be a lot of fun.  It's good to get back in the saddle with this group though.  I missed the feeling of partaking during the years I took off.  My friend who is the GM of this group is also in a few other campaigns, including an amazing sounding Lewis and Clark inspired with a bit of fantasy thrown in Pathfinder campaign he's running/creating/adapting.  I might try to work my way into that one as well.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: CountDeMoney on October 24, 2017, 08:54:49 PM
Quote from: Benedict Arnold on October 19, 2017, 12:53:35 AM
After more than a month off, my group finally managed to (mostly) all attend a session and continue our adventures in Middle Earth using Cubicle One's The One Ring series.  I've always been a huge Tolkien fan and this series has managed to best capture the feeling of the setting in my opinion.  I am still sorely tempted to utilize old MERP books to come up with a campaign set during the fall of the North Kingdom.  I think it could be a lot of fun.  It's good to get back in the saddle with this group though.  I missed the feeling of partaking during the years I took off.  My friend who is the GM of this group is also in a few other campaigns, including an amazing sounding Lewis and Clark inspired with a bit of fantasy thrown in Pathfinder campaign he's running/creating/adapting.  I might try to work my way into that one as well.

God, I wish I still had those old MERP books.  They were such fantastic resources.

BA, you ever try to get into RPGs that are less table- and dice-driven, labor intensive and more lightweight and narrative-friendly?   
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: CountDeMoney on October 24, 2017, 08:56:22 PM
Quote from: The Brain on October 17, 2017, 01:18:19 PM
I just got delivery of a fuckton of books for the new Conan RPG. Got some reading to do...

Well?
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on October 25, 2017, 12:33:38 AM
Quote from: CountDeMoney on October 24, 2017, 08:56:22 PM
Quote from: The Brain on October 17, 2017, 01:18:19 PM
I just got delivery of a fuckton of books for the new Conan RPG. Got some reading to do...

Well?

Well I've glanced at them all and started reading the main rulebook. I like it so far, it does appear to be the ultimate in Conan RPGing. I also like the fact that they're basing it on Howard's stories and don't include stuff from later authors.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Solmyr on October 25, 2017, 03:57:39 AM
There's a new Conan RPG?
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on October 25, 2017, 06:18:37 AM
Quote from: Solmyr on October 25, 2017, 03:57:39 AM
There's a new Conan RPG?

https://www.modiphius.net/collections/conan

https://www.modiphius.com/conan-rpg-product-line.html Wave 1 has just been released.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: CountDeMoney on October 25, 2017, 07:27:28 AM
Quote from: Solmyr on October 25, 2017, 03:57:39 AM
There's a new Conan RPG?

(https://www.modiphius.com/uploads/1/4/0/6/14062642/3803344_orig.jpg)
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: CountDeMoney on October 25, 2017, 07:29:36 AM
I remember going to the barber shop as a little tyke, like 5 or so, and seeing Conan the Barbarian comic books on the table like that cover. 
Would give me the heebie-jeebies, but at the same time, made me want to learn more about chicks in bikini chain mail.  So conflicted.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Solmyr on October 25, 2017, 10:21:45 AM
Quote from: The Brain on October 25, 2017, 06:18:37 AM
Quote from: Solmyr on October 25, 2017, 03:57:39 AM
There's a new Conan RPG?

https://www.modiphius.net/collections/conan

https://www.modiphius.com/conan-rpg-product-line.html Wave 1 has just been released.

Interesting. Wonder how much the fluff overlaps with the d20 version. I'm planning to convert my Conan d20 campaign to Fate Core, so I don't need new rules, but if these guys publish some interesting setting info or adventures, it could be useful.

Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Sophie Scholl on October 27, 2017, 12:17:19 AM
Quote from: CountDeMoney on October 24, 2017, 08:54:49 PM
Quote from: Benedict Arnold on October 19, 2017, 12:53:35 AM
After more than a month off, my group finally managed to (mostly) all attend a session and continue our adventures in Middle Earth using Cubicle One's The One Ring series.  I've always been a huge Tolkien fan and this series has managed to best capture the feeling of the setting in my opinion.  I am still sorely tempted to utilize old MERP books to come up with a campaign set during the fall of the North Kingdom.  I think it could be a lot of fun.  It's good to get back in the saddle with this group though.  I missed the feeling of partaking during the years I took off.  My friend who is the GM of this group is also in a few other campaigns, including an amazing sounding Lewis and Clark inspired with a bit of fantasy thrown in Pathfinder campaign he's running/creating/adapting.  I might try to work my way into that one as well.

God, I wish I still had those old MERP books.  They were such fantastic resources.

BA, you ever try to get into RPGs that are less table- and dice-driven, labor intensive and more lightweight and narrative-friendly?
I've yet to run into a system like that.  I think I'd enjoy the heck out of it, especially with the right players and GM.  Alas, that type of crew seems as unlikely as finding a great set of rules for such a setup.  Far too many people in my extended group of roleplaying people are min/max-ers who are more concerned with "winning" and going all in on combat, loot, and the like than the narrative experience.  It's a shame really, as I think the story telling and narrative aspects are my favorite part of games and why I enjoy them so much.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Solmyr on October 27, 2017, 05:35:06 AM
Quote from: CountDeMoney on October 24, 2017, 08:54:49 PM
God, I wish I still had those old MERP books.  They were such fantastic resources.

You can find most of them online... :perv:
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: saskganesh on November 03, 2017, 02:52:08 PM
I'm currently playing in a 1st ed AD&D game and a 2nd ed Rolemaster game. Both have their strengths. When I run a game, my default is an OSR hack, and mix things up from various TSR D&D editions and clones.

Most people seem to be playing 5th edition or Pathfinder. I'd try 5th with the right group of people.

Oh and there's a whole lot of people who like to talk about RPGS, read them, and buy them, but never seem to make the time to play. Of course, they always make time for everything and anything else.

Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: CountDeMoney on November 03, 2017, 03:42:38 PM
Quote from: saskganesh on November 03, 2017, 02:52:08 PM
Oh and there's a whole lot of people who like to talk about RPGS, read them, and buy them, but never seem to make the time to play. Of course, they always make time for everything and anything else.

:unsure:
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Barrister on November 03, 2017, 03:49:42 PM
Quote from: CountDeMoney on November 03, 2017, 03:42:38 PM
Quote from: saskganesh on November 03, 2017, 02:52:08 PM
Oh and there's a whole lot of people who like to talk about RPGS, read them, and buy them, but never seem to make the time to play. Of course, they always make time for everything and anything else.

:unsure:

I assumed he was talking about me.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: CountDeMoney on November 04, 2017, 09:59:25 PM
Quote from: Benedict Arnold on October 27, 2017, 12:17:19 AM
Quote from: CountDeMoney on October 24, 2017, 08:54:49 PM
BA, you ever try to get into RPGs that are less table- and dice-driven, labor intensive and more lightweight and narrative-friendly?
I've yet to run into a system like that.  I think I'd enjoy the heck out of it, especially with the right players and GM.  Alas, that type of crew seems as unlikely as finding a great set of rules for such a setup.  Far too many people in my extended group of roleplaying people are min/max-ers who are more concerned with "winning" and going all in on combat, loot, and the like than the narrative experience.  It's a shame really, as I think the story telling and narrative aspects are my favorite part of games and why I enjoy them so much.

That's a shame.  There are some really good, narrative-driven RPGs out there without a whole lot of massive character development, tables, etc.   After a while, you just don't want to do that much paperwork.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: saskganesh on November 05, 2017, 06:12:45 AM
Quote from: Barrister on November 03, 2017, 03:49:42 PM
Quote from: CountDeMoney on November 03, 2017, 03:42:38 PM
Quote from: saskganesh on November 03, 2017, 02:52:08 PM
Oh and there's a whole lot of people who like to talk about RPGS, read them, and buy them, but never seem to make the time to play. Of course, they always make time for everything and anything else.

:unsure:

I assumed he was talking about me.

heh. It's a big  part of the RPG market. Since it's such a niche business, the collector/reader segment is very important for the survival of the "industry".
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: crazy canuck on November 05, 2017, 07:58:28 PM
Quote from: saskganesh on November 03, 2017, 02:52:08 PM
a 2nd ed Rolemaster game.
:wub:
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Delirium on November 07, 2017, 03:14:11 PM
Quote from: Benedict Arnold on October 27, 2017, 12:17:19 AMI've yet to run into a system like that.  I think I'd enjoy the heck out of it, especially with the right players and GM.  Alas, that type of crew seems as unlikely as finding a great set of rules for such a setup.  Far too many people in my extended group of roleplaying people are min/max-ers who are more concerned with "winning" and going all in on combat, loot, and the like than the narrative experience.  It's a shame really, as I think the story telling and narrative aspects are my favorite part of games and why I enjoy them so much.

Interesting. I have exactly the opposite problem. My group (when we can be bothered to actually meet up) are mostly focused on telling a story, not that there is anything wrong with that, but after 15+ years of playing together the stories tend to blend into each other and you tend to long for a good, solid rules optimizing table-chewing equipment hoarding group.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on November 27, 2017, 05:36:00 AM
Quote from: The Brain on October 25, 2017, 12:33:38 AM
Quote from: CountDeMoney on October 24, 2017, 08:56:22 PM
Quote from: The Brain on October 17, 2017, 01:18:19 PM
I just got delivery of a fuckton of books for the new Conan RPG. Got some reading to do...

Well?

Well I've glanced at them all and started reading the main rulebook. I like it so far, it does appear to be the ultimate in Conan RPGing. I also like the fact that they're basing it on Howard's stories and don't include stuff from later authors.

Finished the main rulebook. I don't really have an opinion on the rule system, but one thing that I don't really care for is the Doom mechanic. Adjusting events to keep things interesting is part of normal GM duties, I don't understand why you'd need a points system. It also introduces an element of "GM vs players", which I don't care for (they themselves point out correctly in the introdution to RPGs that that's not what RPGs are about). Another design decision I found weird was to make gear and treasure bland and abstract. I get what they're going for but it's hard to get players' hearts racing with bland and abstract rewards. Coupled with the designers' idea that sudden reversals of fortune (riches to rags) shouldn't be unusual makes it harder to get players excited about finding the treasure of the lost temple. If your rewards are bland and can easily be taken away from you why bother risking your life? In this I think they went too far to try to follow the Conan stories, Conan often finds himself back to square one, but that's to get him into the next thrilling tale of violence and naked ladies with no baggage. What works in stories doesn't necessarily work well in an RPG, and I think they could have done this better without losing any essential Conan feeling.

World description etc is good. Illustrations are good. The text is well written.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Delirium on November 27, 2017, 10:50:08 AM
When I read this I started thinking that maybe this is a trend in general in semi-contemporary rpg's? I don't have that much to go by, but my impression is that newer rpg's tend to be much more abstract in general but especially when it comes to things like equipment and combat. Rather than having detailed d100 tables and charts you have a track from 1 to 3 where 3 is seriously badass and 1 is mediochre. Same with stats I suppose. Although when I'm writing this I realize that World of Darkness probably started that path away from the Rolemaster-ish demand for concrete results towards much more storytelling.

In any case, I believe that bland and abstract descriptions dampen your enthusiasm to be creative in your own right...
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: CountDeMoney on November 27, 2017, 12:23:15 PM
Quote from: Delirium on November 27, 2017, 10:50:08 AM
In any case, I believe that bland and abstract descriptions dampen your enthusiasm to be creative in your own right...

Alrighty then.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Delirium on November 27, 2017, 02:50:38 PM
Feel free to go and start another dozen or so threads of moral outrage.  <_<
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Sophie Scholl on November 27, 2017, 02:55:54 PM
I know the The One Ring system from Cubicle 7 uses the abstract "treasure" idea with the addition of some specific weapons which you can pursue.  Personally, I find it rather fitting for the Tolkien setting, as treasure in and of itself is rarely fleshed out as a goal or listed out.  Even dragons and Dwarves seem to seek just the general aspect of it.  Specific weapons and magical rings are the exception in the setting of course, which the rules cover to my satisfaction.  At least as we've encountered them so far.  It also allows for a more abstract handling of the mundane aspects of gearing players up.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: CountDeMoney on November 27, 2017, 07:51:00 PM
Quote from: Delirium on November 27, 2017, 02:50:38 PM
Feel free to go and start another dozen or so threads of moral outrage.  <_<

  :lol:  So touchy
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: 11B4V on November 27, 2017, 08:27:57 PM
Nerds
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Ed Anger on November 27, 2017, 08:32:31 PM
CON is my dump stat
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: PDH on November 27, 2017, 08:45:10 PM
That is one seriously detailed game if it has a Dump stat...
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Ed Anger on November 27, 2017, 08:49:55 PM
The Hand of  Vecna and helm of disintegration is adequate compensation for being wounded by a slight breeze.

Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: CountDeMoney on November 27, 2017, 09:00:15 PM
Quote from: Ed Anger on November 27, 2017, 08:32:31 PM
CON is my dump stat

That explains all your dumps during your morning constitutionals.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: CountDeMoney on November 27, 2017, 09:09:08 PM
Quote from: 11B4V on November 27, 2017, 08:27:57 PM
Nerds

You be slurping it all up if it were Advanced Dungeons & Kursk.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Tamas on November 28, 2017, 04:41:23 AM
 :lol:
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Delirium on November 28, 2017, 08:09:34 AM
 ^_^
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Delirium on December 08, 2017, 04:37:31 AM
On a whim I picked up a well-preserved copy of Twilight 2000 AD (first edition). I will never get around to playing it, but I am interested in how they pictured the setting back in 1984. Plus I am reading about the wars in Poland around 1657 so was already there mentally.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on December 08, 2017, 06:47:50 AM
Quote from: The Brain on November 27, 2017, 05:36:00 AM
Quote from: The Brain on October 25, 2017, 12:33:38 AM
Quote from: CountDeMoney on October 24, 2017, 08:56:22 PM
Quote from: The Brain on October 17, 2017, 01:18:19 PM
I just got delivery of a fuckton of books for the new Conan RPG. Got some reading to do...

Well?

Well I've glanced at them all and started reading the main rulebook. I like it so far, it does appear to be the ultimate in Conan RPGing. I also like the fact that they're basing it on Howard's stories and don't include stuff from later authors.

Finished the main rulebook. I don't really have an opinion on the rule system, but one thing that I don't really care for is the Doom mechanic. Adjusting events to keep things interesting is part of normal GM duties, I don't understand why you'd need a points system. It also introduces an element of "GM vs players", which I don't care for (they themselves point out correctly in the introdution to RPGs that that's not what RPGs are about). Another design decision I found weird was to make gear and treasure bland and abstract. I get what they're going for but it's hard to get players' hearts racing with bland and abstract rewards. Coupled with the designers' idea that sudden reversals of fortune (riches to rags) shouldn't be unusual makes it harder to get players excited about finding the treasure of the lost temple. If your rewards are bland and can easily be taken away from you why bother risking your life? In this I think they went too far to try to follow the Conan stories, Conan often finds himself back to square one, but that's to get him into the next thrilling tale of violence and naked ladies with no baggage. What works in stories doesn't necessarily work well in an RPG, and I think they could have done this better without losing any essential Conan feeling.

World description etc is good. Illustrations are good. The text is well written.

Addendum: it's a bit interesting how they deal with the... less contemporary ideas in the Conan stories. They do write a bit on women in the Conan stories and how there are several examples of women of action and how they're not all damsels in distress, which is fine and reasonable. But they are totally silent on Conan's pretty intense racism in Howard's tales. I guess they decided that ducking completely was the safest bet, and they may have been right, but it does seem a wee bit weird to just pretend that it doesn't exist (especially since the whole game is about creating Howardian adventures and not the comics or movies or what have you).
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Solmyr on December 08, 2017, 11:01:27 AM
Well, I don't think racism is that integral to the Conan stories. And even Howard himself was not entirely comfortable with it and backtracked a bit on several occasions. If anything, he portrayed the barbaric, savage peoples as the ones coming out on top in the end.

Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: katmai on December 08, 2017, 11:12:25 AM
Quote from: Delirium on December 08, 2017, 04:37:31 AM
On a whim I picked up a well-preserved copy of Twilight 2000 AD (first edition). I will never get around to playing it, but I am interested in how they pictured the setting back in 1984. Plus I am reading about the wars in Poland around 1657 so was already there mentally.
still have my copy. That and 2300AD too.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on December 10, 2017, 04:19:52 PM
Quote from: Solmyr on December 08, 2017, 11:01:27 AM
Well, I don't think racism is that integral to the Conan stories. And even Howard himself was not entirely comfortable with it and backtracked a bit on several occasions. If anything, he portrayed the barbaric, savage peoples as the ones coming out on top in the end.

Howard may or may not have been racist, but Conan certainly is.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Solmyr on December 10, 2017, 04:57:30 PM
Quote from: The Brain on December 10, 2017, 04:19:52 PM
Quote from: Solmyr on December 08, 2017, 11:01:27 AM
Well, I don't think racism is that integral to the Conan stories. And even Howard himself was not entirely comfortable with it and backtracked a bit on several occasions. If anything, he portrayed the barbaric, savage peoples as the ones coming out on top in the end.

Howard may or may not have been racist, but Conan certainly is.

Care to give examples? Conan works with quite a variety of people of all ethnicities during his adventures. Usually when he dislikes someone, it's because they wronged him in some way. I fail to see how racism is a defining trait of Conan.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: grumbler on December 10, 2017, 07:10:01 PM
Quote from: Solmyr on December 10, 2017, 04:57:30 PM
Quote from: The Brain on December 10, 2017, 04:19:52 PM
Howard may or may not have been racist, but Conan certainly is.

Care to give examples? Conan works with quite a variety of people of all ethnicities during his adventures. Usually when he dislikes someone, it's because they wronged him in some way. I fail to see how racism is a defining trait of Conan.

Conan is obviously faking his "welcome" to black people on his show.  He seems really uncomfortable around them.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on December 11, 2017, 03:56:10 AM
Quote from: Solmyr on December 10, 2017, 04:57:30 PM
Quote from: The Brain on December 10, 2017, 04:19:52 PM
Quote from: Solmyr on December 08, 2017, 11:01:27 AM
Well, I don't think racism is that integral to the Conan stories. And even Howard himself was not entirely comfortable with it and backtracked a bit on several occasions. If anything, he portrayed the barbaric, savage peoples as the ones coming out on top in the end.

Howard may or may not have been racist, but Conan certainly is.

Care to give examples? Conan works with quite a variety of people of all ethnicities during his adventures. Usually when he dislikes someone, it's because they wronged him in some way. I fail to see how racism is a defining trait of Conan.

Beyond the Black River: "I never liked the fat fool, but we can't have Pictish devils making so cursed free with white men's heads."

The Black Stranger: "But I'm not going to do that! Not because I have any love for you dogs, but because a white man doesn't leave white men, even his enemies, to be butchered by Picts."

To Conan being white is very important. He's certainly not as bad as the CSA, but the distinction between white and non-white runs deep.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Solmyr on December 11, 2017, 05:02:24 AM
Okay, those are Picts (who are pretty much portrayed as evil savages and hostile to everyone around them). Yet in other stories Conan works together with Blacks, Zuagirs (Middle Eastern types), or Wazulis (Afghan types), usually as leader. The woman who could be considered the love of his life, Bêlit, is a Shemite. There's a certain amount of white man's burden in those stories, but I still don't think racism is somehow a universally defining trait of Conan (or one that needs to be present in modern games based on the stories). He's more pro-primal barbarism and anti-decadent civilization (whether white or non-white).
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on December 11, 2017, 05:04:30 AM
Quote from: Solmyr on December 11, 2017, 05:02:24 AM
Okay, those are Picts (who are pretty much portrayed as evil savages and hostile to everyone around them). Yet in other stories Conan works together with Blacks, Zuagirs (Middle Eastern types), or Wazulis (Afghan types), usually as leader. The woman who could be considered the love of his life, Bêlit, is a Shemite. There's a certain amount of white man's burden in those stories, but I still don't think racism is somehow a universally defining trait of Conan (or one that needs to be present in modern games based on the stories). He's more pro-primal barbarism and anti-decadent civilization (whether white or non-white).

I never claimed that it was his most important trait, just that he has it. Yes he happily leads black people and has hanky-panky with dusky women, but he'd leave a non-white enemy to the Picts where he would save a white enemy.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Delirium on December 11, 2017, 02:35:55 PM
Why so touchy about this Brain?
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on December 11, 2017, 02:44:13 PM
Quote from: Delirium on December 11, 2017, 02:35:55 PM
Why so touchy about this Brain?

I don't see how I'm touchy. If I were to write a Conan RPG where I consistently try to make things Howardian I would probably distance myself from Conan's racism by a short paragraph, to not leave myself open to charges of ignoring or trivializing racism. Like I said I don't necessarily think their decision to duck completely was wrong (out of sight, out of mind), but since they bothered to write something concerning possible sexism in the stories the absence of a similar note on racism was put into relief.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: 11B4V on December 11, 2017, 09:16:41 PM
Question, why hasnt Tele conferencing or something like it, not grabbed the P&P RPG community?
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Ed Anger on December 11, 2017, 09:19:30 PM
Quote from: Delirium on December 11, 2017, 02:35:55 PM
Why so touchy about this Brain?

No goat player class
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: CountDeMoney on December 11, 2017, 09:27:48 PM
Quote from: 11B4V on December 11, 2017, 09:16:41 PM
Question, why hasnt Tele conferencing or something like it, not grabbed the P&P RPG community?

It's a lot like kissing your sister:  sure, she's got a great rack and an ass that won't quit, but it just doesn't feel right.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: 11B4V on December 11, 2017, 09:35:52 PM
Quote from: CountDeMoney on December 11, 2017, 09:27:48 PM
Quote from: 11B4V on December 11, 2017, 09:16:41 PM
Question, why hasnt Tele conferencing or something like it, not grabbed the P&P RPG community?

It's a lot like kissing your sister:  sure, she's got a great rack and an ass that won't quit, but it just doesn't feel right.

Don't resist progress.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: PDH on December 11, 2017, 10:40:32 PM
My old gang is spread out now - we use Google+ to play.  The main game with Scott and about 4-5 people is at his house, Jay lives in Austin and I live in Santa Cruz.  We link up with video and play.  Sure, we can't share the cheetos, but it is better than being a bitter old man on the internet.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: CountDeMoney on December 11, 2017, 10:48:43 PM
Quote from: PDH on December 11, 2017, 10:40:32 PM
Sure, we can't share the cheetos, but it is better than being a bitter old man on the internet.

LIES

It's beautiful.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Jacob on December 12, 2017, 02:25:05 PM
Quote from: 11B4V on December 11, 2017, 09:16:41 PM
Question, why hasnt Tele conferencing or something like it, not grabbed the P&P RPG community?

It has to a certain extent: Plenty of people play via Skype, Google Hangouts, roll20.net (https://roll20.net/), Fantasy Grounds (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/home/home.php) et. al.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: celedhring on December 12, 2017, 02:54:13 PM
Yeah, I did some Skype D&D with my regular playing group in Barcelona back when I lived in the US. That said, it didn't really catch on and we ended up abandoning it.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: BuddhaRhubarb on January 13, 2018, 08:54:09 PM
running a loose mostly homebrew pathfinder game right now. thinking about making my own homebrew system using on the stats that my players understand. so very very simple.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: BuddhaRhubarb on January 13, 2018, 08:55:48 PM
oh also started playing in a call of Cthulhu game that after a couple of sessions is pretty fun 7th edition pulp which i quite like the character creation in.  my first time playing Call of Cthulhu
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on January 14, 2018, 05:47:30 AM
Call of Cthulhu is awesome. :)
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: BuddhaRhubarb on January 14, 2018, 12:30:46 PM
ya really enjoying the cthulhu game so far. after a two year break from that gaming group, which had kind of exhausted me. rejuvenated and ready to game again.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: celedhring on February 27, 2018, 07:38:51 AM
Hey, we are looking attempt to start a "remote" campaign with some old friends, who now live in the other side of the country. I've seen some platforms mentioned here, any you particularly recommend?
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Tamas on February 27, 2018, 07:53:44 AM
Quote from: celedhring on February 27, 2018, 07:38:51 AM
Hey, we are looking attempt to start a "remote" campaign with some old friends, who now live in the other side of the country. I've seen some platforms mentioned here, any you particularly recommend?

One thing I can recommend is, don't mix remote play with F2F. We tried that a few times with a boardgame and it really doesn't work. At all. Seriously.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: celedhring on February 27, 2018, 08:57:22 AM
Well, we won't be doing F2F, just weekly remote sessions.

Last time I tried this we would do Skype and then post materials online via google docs. But it was a bit clunky.

Skype does the job, I guess I'm looking for a solution to have the game materials posted and accessible to all participants, and that makes easy to share new stuff during the game.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Tamas on February 27, 2018, 09:03:18 AM
Quote from: celedhring on February 27, 2018, 08:57:22 AM
Well, we won't be doing F2F, just weekly remote sessions.

Last time I tried this we would do Skype and then post materials online via google docs. But it was a bit clunky.


I haven't tried anything like this, but TeamViewer has a pretty neat presentation feature that let viewers point with their mouse pointers and such, and is free.

There's also Tabletop Simulator. And there's a bunch of other specialised software IIRC.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: PDH on February 27, 2018, 07:04:39 PM
We mix F2F with Google+ hangouts for games - there are usually about 4-5 at Scott's house, and 3 of us off around the country.  Scott sets up a camera, mic and speakers for us.  It works well.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Sophie Scholl on February 27, 2018, 07:36:35 PM
My group has tried to meet up more often by utilizing Skype.  It hasn't been going well so far.  The GM, who is a long time friend of mine and long time fellow player/GM, and I both meant the introduction of Skype to be a last resort.  Alas, others are treating it as an opt out to avoid driving.  Our plan is to entice people to come by preparing a dinner or two for those who make the trip.  We'll see how it goes.  We're thinking of trying to put together a Middle Earth inspired spread to complement our One Ring campaign.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: 11B4V on February 28, 2018, 11:27:01 PM
That's pretty cool.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on April 28, 2018, 08:45:38 AM
I pre-ordered the new Vampire: The Masquerade. :blush:
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Tamas on April 29, 2018, 02:41:30 AM
Quote from: The Brain on April 28, 2018, 08:45:38 AM
I pre-ordered the new Vampire: The Masquerade. :blush:

The mid-90s called, they want their teenage angst back.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Hansmeister on April 30, 2018, 06:59:27 PM
Quote from: celedhring on February 27, 2018, 07:38:51 AM
Hey, we are looking attempt to start a "remote" campaign with some old friends, who now live in the other side of the country. I've seen some platforms mentioned here, any you particularly recommend?

Try Roll20.com.  It's really good with virtual tabletop and matching service.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Barrister on April 30, 2018, 08:55:13 PM
HANSMEISTER???!!!
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Valmy on May 01, 2018, 07:35:15 PM
That's a name I've not heard in a long time. A long time.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on July 20, 2018, 04:39:37 PM
Just got the PDFs for the new Kult. Did anyone play back in the day?
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Syt on August 18, 2018, 01:38:46 AM
This ad by Games Workshop showed up in my Twitter feed. :nerd:

(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Dk3DL77WwAAKBlI.jpg)
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Syt on August 18, 2018, 01:40:52 AM
It was linked by Pulp Librarian in a thread about the D&D history: https://twitter.com/PulpLibrarian/status/1030694508051222528

I like PL, they do these retrospectives quite a bit, and usually share amazing or amazingly bad (or both) book/magazine covers.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on September 23, 2018, 12:52:19 PM
Just got the physical rulebook for Kult. It has female nipples on the cover, so it might not be the version that sees general release.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: BuddhaRhubarb on November 06, 2018, 12:40:15 PM
currently playing in a 7th ed. call of Cthulhu, pulp expansion, as a cat, and as the cat's 'can opener' Theda Vex, who is a shady medium turned chauffer for a rich lady investigator (and her cat)  Also running a very slow moving (haven't played since sept) superhero game (M&M 3rd ed.) set in the late 40's... and a more regularly scheduled 5ed D&D game with a bunch of newbs reusing a lot of the world building i had done for previous pathfinder games. In character creation mode for another cthulhlu-y game using some old school basic role playing 5th ed rules mashed up with some Superworld and CofC 5ed. so much role playing. no wonder i am behind in my novel a week reading.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Razgovory on November 07, 2018, 02:59:26 PM
Have you looked at the Cthulhu stuff by Pelgrane Press?  Really interesting.  They just released Fall of Delta Green which is about fighting the Mythos in the 1960's.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on November 07, 2018, 03:03:29 PM
Cultists >>>>>> Hippies.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Syt on January 24, 2019, 05:41:00 PM
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DxtXB3iWwAcaOCO?format=jpg&name=small)
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Savonarola on January 28, 2019, 01:35:51 PM
In the Dungeons and Dragon's Companion set you had the opportunity around twelfth level of either continuing as an adventurer or setting up your own freehold.  The handbook explained that a government run by fighters was a kingdom; a government run by clerics is a theocracy, a government run by magic-users is a magocracy and a government run by thieves is a republic.  I was reminded of that this morning when I saw Howard Schultz was considering running for the presidency; allowing for a possible Trump-Schultz-Bloomberg race. 

:P ;)
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Valmy on January 28, 2019, 02:39:19 PM
Quote from: Savonarola on January 28, 2019, 01:35:51 PM
a government run by thieves is a republic.

D&D is the only civics lesson you need.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Syt on February 06, 2019, 05:56:04 AM
For the DMs - surprisingly good random medieval city generator: https://watabou.itch.io/medieval-fantasy-city-generator
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Oexmelin on February 06, 2019, 08:46:57 PM
It is indeed, surprisingly good for something generated. So many designed cities of heroic fantasy give off a clear vibe of being conceived by suburban North Americans...
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: crazy canuck on February 07, 2019, 02:51:22 PM
Quote from: Oexmelin on February 06, 2019, 08:46:57 PM
It is indeed, surprisingly good for something generated. So many designed cities of heroic fantasy give off a clear vibe of being conceived by suburban North Americans...

We need more diversity in the DM population
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: PDH on February 07, 2019, 09:31:55 PM
In our game group the way cities looked changed forever (and for the better) after I bought Cities of Harn.  My friend Scott does city maps on the computer now - all in something simple like Paint.net
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on March 09, 2019, 03:42:08 PM
Today I got delivery of six more Conan RPG books. Sweet.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Pedrito on April 08, 2019, 11:43:46 AM
I have a bunch of old TSR modules and boxed sets that I want to get rid of; mainly Planescape, Forgotten Realms and Ravenloft, no shrinkwrapped items, but in excellent condition, and complete.

What are the best places to try and sell them? I haven't got an ebay account, so no positive feedback, and I know it's more difficult to sell without a feedback.

L.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: frunk on April 08, 2019, 12:08:17 PM
You could try RPGGeek's marketplace (https://rpggeek.com/geekmarket?pageid=1).  No experience with it, so don't know how it'll go.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Pedrito on April 09, 2019, 12:38:15 PM
Quote from: frunk on April 08, 2019, 12:08:17 PM
You could try RPGGeek's marketplace (https://rpggeek.com/geekmarket?pageid=1).  No experience with it, so don't know how it'll go.
I'll check it out, thanks.  :)

L.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Habbaku on April 09, 2019, 01:07:13 PM
Anyone ever play any of the Pendragon RPG series? I'm tempted by the forthcoming Charlemagne, but am wary of buying games that I don't have guaranteed players for these days.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on April 09, 2019, 01:51:32 PM
Quote from: Habbaku on April 09, 2019, 01:07:13 PM
Anyone ever play any of the Pendragon RPG series? I'm tempted by the forthcoming Charlemagne, but am wary of buying games that I don't have guaranteed players for these days.

I think I may have created a character many moons ago.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: mongers on April 09, 2019, 03:23:19 PM
Quote from: Pedrito on April 08, 2019, 11:43:46 AM
I have a bunch of old TSR modules and boxed sets that I want to get rid of; mainly Planescape, Forgotten Realms and Ravenloft, no shrinkwrapped items, but in excellent condition, and complete.

What are the best places to try and sell them? I haven't got an ebay account, so no positive feedback, and I know it's more difficult to sell without a feedback.

L.

I don't think it is, just buy a dozen cheap $2-4 items to get some feedback, then list away, though be prepared to post abroad for top dollar.

Though personally I don't find ebay worth the hassle nowadays, clunky website and over administration etc.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Hansmeister on April 09, 2019, 09:51:31 PM
Quote from: Habbaku on April 09, 2019, 01:07:13 PM
Anyone ever play any of the Pendragon RPG series? I'm tempted by the forthcoming Charlemagne, but am wary of buying games that I don't have guaranteed players for these days.

I played a campaign a few years ago.  It is a great story based rpg, but some of the mechanics are somewhat clunky.  I hope now that chaosium has the rights again they'll release a new edition to give it a more modern game design mechanism. I was thinking of creating a version around a heavily modified version of the genesys system.

The grand campaign is absolutely stupendous in scope.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Habbaku on April 09, 2019, 10:00:25 PM
Thanks for the input, Hans. Great to see you around again!

I think that Pendragon recently came out with a 5.2 or 5.3 or something, so maybe that rules set will solve some of the clunkiness? Either way, I might as well take the plunge on Charlemagne. Won't be the first time I've bought a massive RPG tome purely for reading material.  :P
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Hansmeister on April 09, 2019, 10:10:10 PM
No, Stafford  treated KAP as his baby and only fiddled around the edges with the rules. I'm interested in Charlemagne as well, simply because Stafford was so compelling at creating great stories (as well as allowing players to create them).

KAP is one of the few rpgs where the non-combat play is more fun and interesting than the combat.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Razgovory on April 09, 2019, 10:13:14 PM
Holy Shit.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: 11B4V on April 28, 2019, 01:46:02 PM
I think is is the only Kickstarter Ive done.


(https://scontent-sea1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/58631058_10218376930325808_8953302461762764800_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&_nc_ht=scontent-sea1-1.xx&oh=f7de09869a0446d20b1d59b5d33e188f&oe=5D3B970C)
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: saskganesh on May 27, 2019, 06:02:30 PM
Playing a 6th level MU (Hilroy) in a first edition AD&D game and a 3rd level Sorcerer (Sola) in a Rolemaster 2nd edition venture. Same games, still ongoing long term. I play about 3-4 sessions total a  month, which is perfect. I have had to decline playing in other games which have come my way.

I've found F2F games via Meet Up and grog forums like Dragonsfoot. Last time I was DM, most of my players came to me via word-of-mouth.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: mongers on May 27, 2019, 07:35:00 PM
Quote from: saskganesh on May 27, 2019, 06:02:30 PM
Playing a 6th level MU (Hilroy) in a first edition AD&D game and a 3rd level Sorcerer (Sola) in a Rolemaster 2nd edition venture. Same games, still ongoing long term. I play about 3-4 sessions total a  month, which is perfect. I have had to decline playing in other games which have come my way.

I've found F2F games via Meet Up and grog forums like Dragonsfoot. Last time I was DM, most of my players came to me via word-of-mouth.

:cool:

That's rather nice, Sasks.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: saskganesh on July 15, 2019, 01:25:53 PM
In RM, we are trying to track down an evil unicorn, have found the evil old temple that may be one of his lairs, and then were savaged by a vampiric rabbit Both casters fell. Sola will be OK, but the NPC bard had to be raised, meaning she is out of action for three months of game time.

The vampire bunny may actually be a shapeshift of the badass unicorn.  Great stuff.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Minsky Moment on July 17, 2019, 03:18:46 AM
Holy Hand Grenade of Antioch takes care of that business.  Always carry one, near the rope and 10' pole.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: grumbler on July 17, 2019, 10:39:23 AM
Quote from: The Minsky Moment on July 17, 2019, 03:18:46 AM
Holy Hand Grenade of Antioch takes care of that business.  Always carry one, near the rope and 10' pole.

Brother Maynard has that.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Zoupa on July 27, 2019, 09:02:21 PM
I signed up to a D&D session for the first time in over 20 years.

I'm excited :)

Does anyone have experience with 5th edition?
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: saskganesh on July 30, 2019, 05:58:50 PM
Quote from: Zoupa on July 27, 2019, 09:02:21 PM
I signed up to a D&D session for the first time in over 20 years.

I'm excited :)

Does anyone have experience with 5th edition?
Yet to play. I imagine a lot depends on the DM's skillz and rules knowledge, as per usual.

My impression is that everyone has more hit points but everyone does more damage and hits more often. But there's more healing.  So, longer fights. 
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on August 09, 2019, 01:10:23 PM
Got Zweihänder, Grim & Perilous RPG. Since it's essentially Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay without the Warhammer license I'm not really sure what its purpose is (why not just play WFRP?), but it's a nice fat book and I'm a sucker for that kind of RPG books. Sure you can use it for whatever low-fantasy grimdark setting you happen to like, but the same could be said about WFRP (and some of those settings have their own RPGs like GoT or Solomon Kane). Not a criticism mind you, more just a question.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Josquius on August 09, 2019, 01:14:55 PM
Is Warhammer fantasy so grim dark?
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on August 09, 2019, 01:16:52 PM
Quote from: Tyr on August 09, 2019, 01:14:55 PM
Is Warhammer fantasy so grim dark?

I would say yes.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on September 21, 2019, 01:12:57 PM
Today I got the WFRP adventure module Rough Nights & Hard Days, and Outbreak: UNDEAD 2nd edition. :)
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Syt on October 05, 2019, 01:32:22 AM
Ross Rifles, a trench warfare RPG, has been fully funded on Kickstarter within a day:

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/dundaswestgames/ross-rifles

QuoteIntroducing Ross Rifles - a tabletop roleplaying game set in the Canadian trenches of the First World War. From 1914-1918, Canada played a major role in assisting the British Empire in winning one of the fiercest wars in history. But victory came at a cost. The First World War took the lives of over 60,000 Canadians. It was from this vast entanglement of international alliances, leaders, and agendas that Canada emerged as a modern fighting force on the brink of nationhood. In Ross Rifles, you play as soldiers from the Canadian Expeditionary Force (CEF) struggling to survive the horrors of trench warfare during the First World War. Sent overseas to fight for crown and country, your characters will make personal sacrifices in the name of Canada.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on October 05, 2019, 01:58:11 AM
Quoteyour characters will make personal sacrifices in the name of Canada

Cosmic horror has a new champion. Move over CoC.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on December 10, 2019, 11:43:15 AM
Just ordered the new Alien RPG: https://www.modiphius.net/products/alien-rpg-bundle?_pos=1&_sid=aac075f25&_ss=r
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on March 19, 2020, 09:27:19 AM
I've been reading the Cadwallon Player's Handbook. I have no plans to play it but I like reading RPG books. I've read the world description, in the rules sections I just looked at the pictures. Very nice artwork in the book, including many pieces by Gary Chalk. :wub:
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Sophie Scholl on March 19, 2020, 08:15:40 PM
I got the Barony of the Damned (WHFRP) in hardcover finally. I'm thinking about running it with a group. It looks like it could be a lot of fun. Adventures in the most corrupt and messed up part of Bretonnia: Mousillon!
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Berkut on March 19, 2020, 10:30:17 PM
Has anoyone tried running a campaign via Roll20 or one of the other VTTs?
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Sophie Scholl on March 19, 2020, 11:58:18 PM
My group for The One Ring just uses Skype. Simple and effective.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: celedhring on March 20, 2020, 01:43:27 AM
I'm going to try to run a Roll20 D&D session next weekend with my group.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on March 20, 2020, 02:15:40 AM
Quote from: Benedict Arnold on March 19, 2020, 08:15:40 PM
I got the Barony of the Damned (WHFRP) in hardcover finally. I'm thinking about running it with a group. It looks like it could be a lot of fun. Adventures in the most corrupt and messed up part of Bretonnia: Mousillon!

For which edition of WHFRP?
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Berkut on March 20, 2020, 07:49:20 AM
Quote from: celedhring on March 20, 2020, 01:43:27 AM
I'm going to try to run a Roll20 D&D session next weekend with my group.

Let me know how it goes....
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Sophie Scholl on March 20, 2020, 02:11:56 PM
Quote from: The Brain on March 20, 2020, 02:15:40 AM
Quote from: Benedict Arnold on March 19, 2020, 08:15:40 PM
I got the Barony of the Damned (WHFRP) in hardcover finally. I'm thinking about running it with a group. It looks like it could be a lot of fun. Adventures in the most corrupt and messed up part of Bretonnia: Mousillon!

For which edition of WHFRP?
We've got books and .pdf's of second. I never got into 3rd and I hear 4th goes back to 2nd's style though I haven't seen any copies yet. The book/campaign itself is for 2nd.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on March 20, 2020, 04:50:32 PM
Quote from: Benedict Arnold on March 20, 2020, 02:11:56 PM
Quote from: The Brain on March 20, 2020, 02:15:40 AM
Quote from: Benedict Arnold on March 19, 2020, 08:15:40 PM
I got the Barony of the Damned (WHFRP) in hardcover finally. I'm thinking about running it with a group. It looks like it could be a lot of fun. Adventures in the most corrupt and messed up part of Bretonnia: Mousillon!

For which edition of WHFRP?
We've got books and .pdf's of second. I never got into 3rd and I hear 4th goes back to 2nd's style though I haven't seen any copies yet. The book/campaign itself is for 2nd.

Good. I never played 1st ed back in the day, I own I think all 2nd ed books except one (and GM'd it a fair bit), skipped the weird 3rd ed, and I have started buying 4th ed just because.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Sophie Scholl on March 21, 2020, 03:59:52 AM
We played a fair amount of 2nd edition years ago. I wish we'd managed to get a full set of the books while they were relatively cheap. Now some are crazy expensive. $100 plus baseline. Thankfully I've managed to acquire most of the .pdf's, but I much prefer a hard copy in hand.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Savonarola on June 19, 2020, 01:10:01 PM
One of my friends started a Zoom Ghostbusters RPG game.  It's from the 80s and was designed, in part, by Sandy Peterson (who had created the original Call of Cthulhu  :cthulu: game.)  The game mechanism would form the basis for West End Game's "Star Wars" game a few years later.  It's a great deal of fun and, because the rules or so simple, moves quickly.

The game is set in Detroit in the 80s, so naturally the running gag is that Ecto-1's tires get stolen and ends up on blocks every adventure.

My character is a champion of justice  :ph34r:; everyone else is a smart or cool hero so strength is usually their dump stat.  In the game you get a talent for each of your abilities, and everyone else picked "Run" for their strength talent.

Savonarola:   I see you guys have played the Call of Cthulhu RPG.

They hadn't actually.  In fact when we started talking about our RPG experience everyone else had started in fourth edition D&D or Pathfinder.

Savonarola:  I, uh, :unsure: started playing D&D when it came in a little red box :unsure:
Everyone else:  :o :o :o

It is helpful to the group that we have someone there who remembers the 80s (other than the Ghost Master.)  When we have to research I can guide them to mysterious places like "The Public Library" and instruct them on lost technologies like "The Yellow Pages," "Microfiche" and "Fax Machines."
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Barrister on June 19, 2020, 03:17:15 PM
Quote from: Savonarola on June 19, 2020, 01:10:01 PM
It is helpful to the group that we have someone there who remembers the 80s (other than the Ghost Master.)  When we have to research I can guide them to mysterious places like "The Public Library" and instruct them on lost technologies like "The Yellow Pages," "Microfiche" and "Fax Machines."

:lol:

Why the 80s setting if only you are old enough to remember the era?
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Savonarola on June 20, 2020, 11:27:30 AM
Quote from: Barrister on June 19, 2020, 03:17:15 PM
Quote from: Savonarola on June 19, 2020, 01:10:01 PM
It is helpful to the group that we have someone there who remembers the 80s (other than the Ghost Master.)  When we have to research I can guide them to mysterious places like "The Public Library" and instruct them on lost technologies like "The Yellow Pages," "Microfiche" and "Fax Machines."

:lol:

Why the 80s setting if only you are old enough to remember the era?

The Ghost Master is my age and he's a monster Detroit History Buff.  He did a Call of Cthulhu campaign set in 1930s Detroit that was a great deal of fun.  Also the the game was first released in 1986; so by setting the game in the late 80s we don't need to adapt anything. 

The rules are available here. (https://nerdyshow.com/gbrpg/howtoplay/) 

The original game came with a set of cards for equipment.  I found this one amusing:

QuoteCellular Phone
This is a telephone you can install in the ECTO-I. lt is somewhat extravagant (one
hundred or more dollars rent each month), but what a status symbol!
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: 11B4V on June 20, 2020, 04:26:07 PM
Anyone play Call of Cthulhu?

After the starter kit, is it basically get everything?
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on June 20, 2020, 04:33:40 PM
Quote from: 11B4V on June 20, 2020, 04:26:07 PM
Anyone play Call of Cthulhu?

After the starter kit, is it basically get everything?

I've played it a lot the past 30 years, but not the last few years. I don't know what's in the starter kit, but if you have the rulebook (or rulebooks, I don't know if the Investigator Handbook is necessary in this edition, it wasn't before) then all you need is adventures/campaigns, if you don't make your own (I've always played published adventures and campaigns).
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: 11B4V on June 20, 2020, 04:44:53 PM
Quote from: The Brain on June 20, 2020, 04:33:40 PM
Quote from: 11B4V on June 20, 2020, 04:26:07 PM
Anyone play Call of Cthulhu?

After the starter kit, is it basically get everything?

I've played it a lot the past 30 years, but not the last few years. I don't know what's in the starter kit, but if you have the rulebook (or rulebooks, I don't know if the Investigator Handbook is necessary in this edition, it wasn't before) then all you need is adventures/campaigns, if you don't make your own (I've always played published adventures and campaigns).

Thank ya kindly sir. Trying to get the daughter interested. Maybe I'll have her follow along with the solo adventure from the set.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: PDH on June 20, 2020, 08:42:47 PM
So the last week of July we changed our "all the High School and College Buddies get together and game for a week" to "We will google meet the week."

We're all older, slower, and some of us have conditions that make a group getting together from around the US to game in person not a grand idea.  Instead we have all promised to buy the garbage food we normally have, and to spend a week sitting around BSing, playing, and generally pretending we are in the same room.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Savonarola on June 21, 2020, 10:42:31 AM
Quote from: 11B4V on June 20, 2020, 04:26:07 PM
Anyone play Call of Cthulhu?

After the starter kit, is it basically get everything?

It depends on the type of campaign you want to run.  We have a more light-hearted campaign, so we use the "Pulp" book.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on November 21, 2020, 04:31:30 AM
Modiphius is doing a Dune RPG: https://www.modiphius.net/pages/discover-dune-roleplaying-game

I'm kinda interested for the settting. I'm not a huge fan of their system though, in Conan I thought it was dry and it had a player-vs-GM mechanic which I found odd. But I haven't played it mind you.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: fromtia on November 21, 2020, 11:19:00 AM
Quote from: 11B4V on June 20, 2020, 04:26:07 PM
Anyone play Call of Cthulhu?

After the starter kit, is it basically get everything?

Yes, but back in the 80's. Loved it at the time.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: fromtia on November 21, 2020, 11:26:18 AM
Chaosium is offering Print On Demand copies of the 2nd edition rules of Runequest which is the version I played like it was my job back in 1982 or thereabouts. At the time my brothers and my friends all felt very strongly that this was a much better system than the 1e DnD that we had been playing although the magic wasn't quite as good. I didn't really completely grasp the setting in 1982 but it has stayed with me vividly ever since and in recent years I've found myself dipping into Glorantha whenever I can.

The US 2nd edition has a different cover than the UK edition I had at the time, but otherwise it's the same. I like the UK "soft porn" version a bit better.  :lol:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zAest25kc9A (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zAest25kc9A)

Excellent review of 2nd edition, the publishing history of Runequest and it's place in the pantheon of the Ur-RPG's.

I bought a copy of the current edition just now.  :)


Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: celedhring on November 21, 2020, 12:42:20 PM
Rune Quest was my first RPG! I remember using the board and minis from Hero Quest to play with my brother, with myself doubling as DM/player  :lol:

Played a lot with my high school friends, too. Still have a lot of the manuals/settings in pretty good shape.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: fromtia on November 21, 2020, 01:31:28 PM
Quote from: celedhring on November 21, 2020, 12:42:20 PM
Rune Quest was my first RPG! I remember using the board and minis from Hero Quest to play with my brother, with myself doubling as DM/player  :lol:

Played a lot with my high school friends, too. Still have a lot of the manuals/settings in pretty good shape.

Spend a minute on the Chaosium website, the '7th' edition, the current one, looks magnificent.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y0Ok8zseq6k (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y0Ok8zseq6k)
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on December 22, 2020, 08:59:41 AM
I got my final shipment of Conan stuff. Which was a nice surprise, since I didn't remember that there was anything left to deliver. :) Anyway it's seven books:

Art Book
Conan: The Exiles Sourcebook
Kull of Atlantis
Conan the King
Conan the Adventurer
Conan the Scout
Conan the Wanderer
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on December 28, 2020, 06:32:54 AM
I looked through some of the new Conan books. I was reminded of what I felt about this Conan RPG from the time I got the first books: they have a weird idea of what is important in the Conan stories and therefore what's important in a Sword & Sorcery RPG. There's page after page about culture/politics/religion etc, but fairly little about the actual sharp point of Conan: spectacular locations, weird characters, colorful women (both action heroines and damsels in distress, both kinds oddly enough always half or fully naked), dark magic, furious action, etc. The creature sections are fairly well stocked, I give them that. As I think I've mentioned before things are very dry and abstract. Yay, after battling the monster and risking your lives in other ways you've found the treasure: some fairly abstract gold points! Sigh. And there's no decent How To Spend It section. You kind of wonder why the characters would bother searching for treasure at all. Reading the books doesn't get your blood pumping for GM-ing some sweet Sword & Sorcery. If at least ONE book out of these twenty something total number had been completely about "How do I build a Conan adventure story and location", with concrete tools and adventure hooks, and inspiring examples, then that would have done a lot for the RPG. If they want to write many dry books about politics etc then do so, but write some other stuff too plz.

You have a huge number of books, based on Howard's stories, lots of background material, some nice artwork, in many ways it should have been the definitive Conan RPG. But everything is a tad askew.

NB: I haven't played it, while my impression of the game mechanics isn't very favorable I don't have practical experience with them.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Syt on December 28, 2020, 06:38:51 AM
Do they contain incomprehensible Elder Gods like the original stories?
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on December 28, 2020, 06:46:10 AM
Quote from: Syt on December 28, 2020, 06:38:51 AM
Do they contain incomprehensible Elder Gods like the original stories?

Yes. There's a lot of Lovecraftian stuff. I would say that pretty much everything that's in the original stories is in the game (though obviously not always implemented the way I would have preferred).
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on December 28, 2020, 06:50:54 AM
One additional comment: what information there is on weird locations etc is often about locations from the stories. Sure, those locations should be mentioned and briefly described, but actually adventuring there doesn't sound very attractive. Doing tourist adventures to places players recognize from the stories... meh.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Darth Wagtaros on January 03, 2021, 11:18:05 AM
Wish I could play something.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: grumbler on January 03, 2021, 11:39:24 PM
Quote from: The Brain on December 28, 2020, 06:46:10 AM
Quote from: Syt on December 28, 2020, 06:38:51 AM
Do they contain incomprehensible Elder Gods like the original stories?

Yes. There's a lot of Lovecraftian stuff. I would say that pretty much everything that's in the original stories is in the game (though obviously not always implemented the way I would have preferred).

Is it just the Howard Conan stuff, or all the non-Conan stuff retrofitted into Conan?  Does it include all the stuff from the books by Carter, Nyberg, DeCamp, Anderson, etc (i.e. all of the Lancer/Ace stuff)?  Does it include the stuff from the more recent comics?
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on January 04, 2021, 04:42:31 AM
Quote from: grumbler on January 03, 2021, 11:39:24 PM
Quote from: The Brain on December 28, 2020, 06:46:10 AM
Quote from: Syt on December 28, 2020, 06:38:51 AM
Do they contain incomprehensible Elder Gods like the original stories?

Yes. There's a lot of Lovecraftian stuff. I would say that pretty much everything that's in the original stories is in the game (though obviously not always implemented the way I would have preferred).

Is it just the Howard Conan stuff, or all the non-Conan stuff retrofitted into Conan?  Does it include all the stuff from the books by Carter, Nyberg, DeCamp, Anderson, etc (i.e. all of the Lancer/Ace stuff)?  Does it include the stuff from the more recent comics?

Just the Howard stuff. They have very deliberately excluded non-Howard stuff.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: grumbler on January 04, 2021, 11:20:35 PM
Quote from: The Brain on January 04, 2021, 04:42:31 AM
Quote from: grumbler on January 03, 2021, 11:39:24 PM
Quote from: The Brain on December 28, 2020, 06:46:10 AM
Quote from: Syt on December 28, 2020, 06:38:51 AM
Do they contain incomprehensible Elder Gods like the original stories?

Yes. There's a lot of Lovecraftian stuff. I would say that pretty much everything that's in the original stories is in the game (though obviously not always implemented the way I would have preferred).

Is it just the Howard Conan stuff, or all the non-Conan stuff retrofitted into Conan?  Does it include all the stuff from the books by Carter, Nyberg, DeCamp, Anderson, etc (i.e. all of the Lancer/Ace stuff)?  Does it include the stuff from the more recent comics?

Just the Howard stuff. They have very deliberately excluded non-Howard stuff.

Most excellent!  What about stories like "Hawks over Shem" that were originally non-Conan but just converted by L Sprague de camp with some name changes?  I'm kinda interested in where Howard's ideas ended up in the thought of Conanography.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on January 05, 2021, 04:14:24 AM
Quote from: grumbler on January 04, 2021, 11:20:35 PM
Quote from: The Brain on January 04, 2021, 04:42:31 AM
Quote from: grumbler on January 03, 2021, 11:39:24 PM
Quote from: The Brain on December 28, 2020, 06:46:10 AM
Quote from: Syt on December 28, 2020, 06:38:51 AM
Do they contain incomprehensible Elder Gods like the original stories?

Yes. There's a lot of Lovecraftian stuff. I would say that pretty much everything that's in the original stories is in the game (though obviously not always implemented the way I would have preferred).

Is it just the Howard Conan stuff, or all the non-Conan stuff retrofitted into Conan?  Does it include all the stuff from the books by Carter, Nyberg, DeCamp, Anderson, etc (i.e. all of the Lancer/Ace stuff)?  Does it include the stuff from the more recent comics?

Just the Howard stuff. They have very deliberately excluded non-Howard stuff.

Most excellent!  What about stories like "Hawks over Shem" that were originally non-Conan but just converted by L Sprague de camp with some name changes?  I'm kinda interested in where Howard's ideas ended up in the thought of Conanography.

My understanding is that they have limited it to "pure" Howard Conan stories.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: grumbler on January 05, 2021, 09:41:56 AM
Quote from: The Brain on January 05, 2021, 04:14:24 AM

My understanding is that they have limited it to "pure" Howard Conan stories.

Grazie for your patience in answering these questions.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on January 05, 2021, 10:15:28 AM
Quote from: grumbler on January 05, 2021, 09:41:56 AM
Quote from: The Brain on January 05, 2021, 04:14:24 AM

My understanding is that they have limited it to "pure" Howard Conan stories.

Grazie for your patience in answering these questions.

Prego. I did notice now that the introductory adventure in the rulebook is called Vultures of Shem. Makes you thimk.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on January 28, 2021, 02:55:48 PM
Got delivery of the Cyperpunk RED rulebook. I started reading but immediately T-posed and fell through the ground.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Savonarola on February 03, 2021, 05:01:43 PM
My group started playing Cyberpunk Red.  Two of the classes (Rockerboy and Media) are essentially glorified influencers.  The Media character uses social media to share the truth about corporate wrongdoings.  One of our group chose that, then the social media fueled Capitol Riots occurred and everyone realized we were already living in the dark future.

If I ever write a cyberpunk novel the premise will be the corrupt government and evil corporations are oppressing the rabble and the heroes standing up to them are QAnon Buffalo Shaman style kooks. 
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Berkut on February 06, 2021, 09:44:40 AM
I've been playing a lot of DND 5E.

I really like the amount of content out there, and how the game has been nicely streamlined to make it approachable for new players.

But I am definitely feeling like it is too basic. The combat system basically just comes down to a game of Go where each side tries and mostly succeeds in getting flanking on the other so they can roll with advantage. There is little or no syergy between players beyond that, and no real reason to try to be thoughtful.

Builds are pretty straightforward. Nothing really there to tweak, unless you get into multi-classing, which then becomes (IMO) almost game breaking in its character power ramping.

Overall, I like the game a lot, but I feel like I want and "Advanced" DND 5E. Is Pathfinder that?
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: crazy canuck on February 06, 2021, 01:29:56 PM
Pathfinder is more about skill synergies so that may be more appealing.

I will use this opportunity to make my annual lament about the RoleMaster combat rules not becoming more widely adapted in the digital age.  Remove the need to look up a number of tables to determine the result of a combat action, and that may be more of what you are looking for.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Jacob on February 08, 2021, 05:28:21 PM
Quote from: crazy canuck on February 06, 2021, 01:29:56 PM
Pathfinder is more about skill synergies so that may be more appealing.

I will use this opportunity to make my annual lament about the RoleMaster combat rules not becoming more widely adapted in the digital age.  Remove the need to look up a number of tables to determine the result of a combat action, and that may be more of what you are looking for.

Did you see "Against the Darkmaster (https://www.vsdarkmaster.com/)"? It's an update/ retro-clone of the Rolemaster/ MERP set and I keep hearing good things about it.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: crazy canuck on February 08, 2021, 05:41:03 PM
Quote from: Jacob on February 08, 2021, 05:28:21 PM
Quote from: crazy canuck on February 06, 2021, 01:29:56 PM
Pathfinder is more about skill synergies so that may be more appealing.

I will use this opportunity to make my annual lament about the RoleMaster combat rules not becoming more widely adapted in the digital age.  Remove the need to look up a number of tables to determine the result of a combat action, and that may be more of what you are looking for.

Did you see "Against the Darkmaster (https://www.vsdarkmaster.com/)"? It's an update/ retro-clone of the Rolemaster/ MERP set and I keep hearing good things about it.

I read through the cheat sheet of the rules, and that looks very promising.

Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Jacob on February 08, 2021, 05:49:12 PM
Quote from: Berkut on February 06, 2021, 09:44:40 AM
I've been playing a lot of DND 5E.

I really like the amount of content out there, and how the game has been nicely streamlined to make it approachable for new players.

But I am definitely feeling like it is too basic. The combat system basically just comes down to a game of Go where each side tries and mostly succeeds in getting flanking on the other so they can roll with advantage. There is little or no syergy between players beyond that, and no real reason to try to be thoughtful.

Builds are pretty straightforward. Nothing really there to tweak, unless you get into multi-classing, which then becomes (IMO) almost game breaking in its character power ramping.

Overall, I like the game a lot, but I feel like I want and "Advanced" DND 5E. Is Pathfinder that?

Pathfinder is, as I understand it, Advanced DND 3.5. Pathfinder II is... I'm not sure to be honest. Haven't read it or talked enough to people to really know... so sorry, useless response I guess.

I guess the question is what is the part you want to be more advanced? The combat options? Narrative mechanics? Non-combat systems?

Not that I have ready answers for any of those, but there are a whole lot of RPGs coming out in all kinds of flavours. Like Brancalona - an Italian Spaghetti Fantasy RPG (https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/acherongames/brancalonia-the-spaghetti-fantasy-rpg) (5E based, I believe). I don't think that one is necessarily particularly "advanced", it's rather a flavour thing.

There's also, I believe, a massive number of third party options and supplements available if you want to take your 5E game in a different direction.

Personally I'm tinkering with OSR stuff, which is sort of the opposite of going more advanced. But doing a quick search on Drivethru I see things like:
https://www.drivethrurpg.com/product/215554/DD-5E-SecondbySecond-Combat-5E-SBSC?filters=44827_0_0_0_0_0
https://www.drivethrurpg.com/product/194581/Ultimate-Battle-5E?filters=44827_0_0_0_0_0
https://www.drivethrurpg.com/product/237098/NAVAL-COMBAT-5E--Running-Sea-Encounters-for-Ships--Monsters?filters=44827_0_0_0_0_0

Some of those things may take your game in the advanced direction you're looking for?

Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on February 09, 2021, 07:57:18 AM
I've never been a D&D guy, so of course don't listen too much to me, but I'd try a different system. I've always found D&D a bit limiting.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Berkut on February 09, 2021, 09:18:31 AM
My problem though is that I am lazy.

And DnD seems, to me, to have like 20x the content of whatever comes in second.

Ill take a look at some of those expanded options though, thanks Jake!
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Jacob on February 09, 2021, 10:39:52 AM
Quote from: Berkut on February 09, 2021, 09:18:31 AM
My problem though is that I am lazy.

And DnD seems, to me, to have like 20x the content of whatever comes in second.

Ill take a look at some of those expanded options though, thanks Jake!

:cheers:

Just to be clear, those weren't carefully curated - I haven't even read any of them. Point is more that you should check the D&D section of drivethru and see what catches your eye.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Valmy on February 09, 2021, 06:14:52 PM
I got this to play with my sons: https://www.icrpg.com/

It seems like a real nice rules light version of D&D. I cannot wait to try it out.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Sophie Scholl on February 11, 2021, 04:02:19 PM
Probably my favorite system, The One Ring, of all time is kickstarting a new edition with a new publisher, Free League. They are already waaaaaaaaaaaaay over the goal level ($531,000 and rising compared to $12,000). If anyone is looking for a great game, give it a look!  :)
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1192053011/the-one-ring-roleplaying-game-second-edition?ref=ksr_email_user_watched_project_launched
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on February 11, 2021, 04:04:46 PM
Quote from: Benedict Arnold on February 11, 2021, 04:02:19 PM
Probably my favorite system, The One Ring, of all time is kickstarting a new edition with a new publisher, Free League. They are already waaaaaaaaaaaaay over the goal level ($531,000 and rising compared to $12,000). If anyone is looking for a great game, give it a look!  :)
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1192053011/the-one-ring-roleplaying-game-second-edition?ref=ksr_email_user_watched_project_launched

Crazy Swedes always up to something.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Threviel on February 12, 2021, 06:46:07 AM
I have the original lying around somewhere.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Sophie Scholl on February 13, 2021, 04:39:29 AM
My ttrpg crew and I are on the homestretch of a... 4 year irl campaign using The One Ring. We expect to finish around May.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: crazy canuck on February 13, 2021, 11:14:45 AM
Quote from: Benedict Arnold on February 13, 2021, 04:39:29 AM
My ttrpg crew and I are on the homestretch of a... 4 year irl campaign using The One Ring. We expect to finish around May.

Is it similar to the Rolemaster system?  I really liked the way it dealt with Tolkien's material.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Habbaku on February 13, 2021, 11:54:30 AM
Picked up a copy of Lex Arcana, an RPG based in an alt-hist/magical Roman Empire that never fell. No idea when I'll actually get to run it, but hope springs eternal.

(https://d1rbbjrn2xovty.cloudfront.net/000002/28/53/89/028538960628_big.jpg)
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Sophie Scholl on February 13, 2021, 05:21:00 PM
Quote from: crazy canuck on February 13, 2021, 11:14:45 AM
Quote from: Benedict Arnold on February 13, 2021, 04:39:29 AM
My ttrpg crew and I are on the homestretch of a... 4 year irl campaign using The One Ring. We expect to finish around May.

Is it similar to the Rolemaster system?  I really liked the way it dealt with Tolkien's material.
I'm not familiar with Rolemaster unfortunately. From a cursory glance, it sounds like it might be close? There are no real super defined classes. You can build and grow your character however you want and every skill is available to every player with success being dictated by investment in the skills to meet your goals for a character and also a 1 in 12 chance of a "blind luck" success. That sounds like it might be similar to Rolemaster? I'm not sure though. The way everything is handled though, from skills, to "classes", to races, to travel, to... everything is just perfectly Tolkien and amazing for almost any system in my opinion. I'd love to try to play, amongst many others, a Warhammer game using The One Ring's ruleset as I love the Warhammer setting but abhor the WHFRP ruleset.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: jimmy olsen on March 05, 2021, 04:22:19 AM
Just saw that they're doing a Victorian era sourcebook for the Mage 20th Anniversary Edition line.

https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/victorian-mage-ttrpg#/
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on March 05, 2021, 04:48:41 AM
Quote from: Habbaku on February 13, 2021, 11:54:30 AM
Picked up a copy of Lex Arcana, an RPG based in an alt-hist/magical Roman Empire that never fell. No idea when I'll actually get to run it, but hope springs eternal.


Is it a nice book? I've been eyeing it (not realistically for playing it though).
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Habbaku on March 05, 2021, 10:50:02 PM
I bought entirely too many Lex Arcana (https://www.aresgames.eu/games/roleplaying-games/lex-arcana-core-rulebook) books recently after getting some really good vibes from reading the core book. Basically the entire hardcover line, and I may pick up some of the PDF adventure books just to give me an idea of what the designers themselves expect the game to be run like.

Naturally, I'll loot the best elements from those for ideas, but otherwise scrap it, as I tend not to like pre-written adventures that much.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Habbaku on March 05, 2021, 10:52:33 PM
Quote from: The Brain on March 05, 2021, 04:48:41 AM
Quote from: Habbaku on February 13, 2021, 11:54:30 AM
Picked up a copy of Lex Arcana, an RPG based in an alt-hist/magical Roman Empire that never fell. No idea when I'll actually get to run it, but hope springs eternal.


Is it a nice book? I've been eyeing it (not realistically for playing it though).


It is. Production quality is very high, organization and readability are very good. Art is excellent. It is, however, very much a player's book rather than a proper setting book. It has plenty of material on the setting, mind, but for a really deep-dive...that's in the other sources, like the Aegyptus book.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Savonarola on March 20, 2021, 12:51:54 PM
Quote from: Savonarola on February 03, 2021, 05:01:43 PM
My group started playing Cyberpunk Red.  Two of the classes (Rockerboy and Media) are essentially glorified influencers.  The Media character uses social media to share the truth about corporate wrongdoings.  One of our group chose that, then the social media fueled Capitol Riots occurred and everyone realized we were already living in the dark future.

If I ever write a cyberpunk novel the premise will be the corrupt government and evil corporations are oppressing the rabble and the heroes standing up to them are QAnon Buffalo Shaman style kooks.

There's a stat in the game called "Empathy" which goes down as you get more cybernetic implants (and therefore become more robot than man.)  I was going to suggest a house rule where that makes computer use skill checks more difficult as you constantly fail Captcha tests; except I dont' think the Netrunner would appreciate that. 
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: jimmy olsen on April 12, 2021, 07:33:37 AM
This sounds fun.

https://www.reddit.com/r/rpg/comments/mp0wmc/be_not_afraid_is_a_2page_rpg_where_you_play/
Quote
BE NOT AFRAID is a 2-page RPG where you play (nearly) omnipotent angels trying and often failing to help humanity.

The primary inspirations for this game are Good Omens and The Good Place. The game is meant to be simple enough to run for an evening, and designed to hopefully provoke the fun kinds of philosophical discussion about power, responsibility, what it means to do good, what would happen if Michael killed Hitler with a flaming sword, etc.

Hope y'all enjoy playing it as much as I did making it! LMK what you think!
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on May 05, 2021, 02:49:09 PM
Got some Lex Arcana books today. They look nice. :)
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Habbaku on May 05, 2021, 02:55:06 PM
They're rad.  :)
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on May 05, 2021, 03:10:28 PM
Suez canal? :hmm:
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Darth Wagtaros on May 05, 2021, 03:52:41 PM
I'll be fully vacinated in two weeks. I wish to play a RPG again, its been years.  Like an in person one. With stuff. And my hematite dice.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: jimmy olsen on May 07, 2021, 04:46:22 AM
Quote from: The Brain on May 05, 2021, 03:10:28 PM
Suez canal? :hmm:

The oracles were in favor.  :pope:

EDIT: I did just buy this. Seems cool so far.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: jimmy olsen on May 31, 2021, 01:33:05 AM
Dark Albion: The Rose War looks damn good.

https://www.rpg.net/reviews/archive/16/16520.phtml
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on July 15, 2021, 01:41:26 PM
Got the Colonial Marines book for the Alien RPG. Like the others it's a nice book. Has background info and a 7 part campaign. Some comments though:

Alien/Aliens (my short for the good parts of the Alien universe) has monolithic and faceless non-monster enemies (The Company etc). Describing the setting and organizations in detail kind of takes away the "only put in the background parts necessary for the story" principle that works very well for Alien/Aliens.

My guess is that the makers of the RPG had to take the whole license, ie even the crappy later Ridley Scott movies. Alien 3 and Alien: Resurrection were not good movies, but at least they stuck to the relevant stuff, the xenomorph. The later Scott movies though are very bad from a pure movie perspective and what's worse in this context the whole Engineers BS is thematically completely disconnected from Alien/Aliens. The Engineers stuff could have worked in its own setting, but bolting it onto Alien/Aliens demeans them both. I assume Scott had Engineers ideas and just wanted to cash in on the Alien name, and that's why he made them Alien movies. Fair enough, I respect the hustle, but it didn't make for a great product. So, they had to include Engineers stuff in the campaign. Luckily the adventures are built in a way that makes modifying them fairly simple, making it easy for the GM to do some cleaning (so the players won't have to relive the cringe of Scott making the super cool fossilized alien in the first movie having been literally a guy in a rubber suit, for instance...).
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: grumbler on July 17, 2021, 02:16:30 PM
Quote from: The Brain on July 15, 2021, 01:41:26 PM
My guess is that the makers of the RPG had to take the whole license, ie even the crappy later Ridley Scott movies. Alien 3 and Alien: Resurrection were not good movies, but at least they stuck to the relevant stuff, the xenomorph. The later Scott movies though are very bad from a pure movie perspective and what's worse in this context the whole Engineers BS is thematically completely disconnected from Alien/Aliens. The Engineers stuff could have worked in its own setting, but bolting it onto Alien/Aliens demeans them both. I assume Scott had Engineers ideas and just wanted to cash in on the Alien name, and that's why he made them Alien movies. Fair enough, I respect the hustle, but it didn't make for a great product. So, they had to include Engineers stuff in the campaign. Luckily the adventures are built in a way that makes modifying them fairly simple, making it easy for the GM to do some cleaning (so the players won't have to relive the cringe of Scott making the super cool fossilized alien in the first movie having been literally a guy in a rubber suit, for instance...).

Does the book include Engineer Jesus?  That was the most incredibly stupid part of the moronic Engineer plot line.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on July 17, 2021, 05:59:54 PM
Quote from: grumbler on July 17, 2021, 02:16:30 PM
Quote from: The Brain on July 15, 2021, 01:41:26 PM
My guess is that the makers of the RPG had to take the whole license, ie even the crappy later Ridley Scott movies. Alien 3 and Alien: Resurrection were not good movies, but at least they stuck to the relevant stuff, the xenomorph. The later Scott movies though are very bad from a pure movie perspective and what's worse in this context the whole Engineers BS is thematically completely disconnected from Alien/Aliens. The Engineers stuff could have worked in its own setting, but bolting it onto Alien/Aliens demeans them both. I assume Scott had Engineers ideas and just wanted to cash in on the Alien name, and that's why he made them Alien movies. Fair enough, I respect the hustle, but it didn't make for a great product. So, they had to include Engineers stuff in the campaign. Luckily the adventures are built in a way that makes modifying them fairly simple, making it easy for the GM to do some cleaning (so the players won't have to relive the cringe of Scott making the super cool fossilized alien in the first movie having been literally a guy in a rubber suit, for instance...).

Does the book include Engineer Jesus?  That was the most incredibly stupid part of the moronic Engineer plot line.

Nah, I don't think so.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: jimmy olsen on August 27, 2021, 11:41:21 PM
This seems cool. Has anyone played it?

https://www.shutupandsitdown.com/rpg-review-trail-of-cthulhu/

QuoteTrail of Cthulhu, designed by Kenneth Hite, is both a psychological horror RPG descended from Call of Cthulhu, and a cousin to deduction games like Sherlock Holmes: Consulting Detective and Mythos Tales. Your goal is to uncover the truth by amassing and interpreting clues from crime scenes, letters, news clippings, bizarre artifacts, libraries, autopsies.

QuoteTrail of Cthulhu has Purist and Pulp modes. If you're a fan of existential despair and debilitating psychological traumas (like I am) go Purist. If you prefer shooting monsters and adventuring more in the style of Arkham Horror, go for Pulp. You can actually play most adventures in either mode.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on August 28, 2021, 02:47:21 AM
I've never tried Trail of Cthulhu. I'm a Call of Cthulhu guy and happy with that.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on August 28, 2021, 02:48:28 AM
I got the Dune RPG rulebook, but I haven't read it yet.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: jimmy olsen on August 28, 2021, 08:55:34 AM
Quote from: The Brain on August 28, 2021, 02:47:21 AM
I've never tried Trail of Cthulhu. I'm a Call of Cthulhu guy and happy with that.
Try something new old man!
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: 11B4V on August 28, 2021, 10:35:43 AM
I'm with Brain, but ordered it just cause.  :lol:
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Jacob on August 30, 2021, 07:38:17 PM
My current project is to kludge together my own preferred collection of OSR rules for (maybe one day) running a sandbox style campaign.

Right now, I'm looking at attaching the skills and character backgrounds (lightly tweaked) from Worlds Without Number to Old School Essentials. Looking to use race-as-class, but allow old fashioned multiclassing (so you could, f. ex. multiclass as Dwarf & Magic-User).

I thought about using the magic rules from GLOG, but I think that'll be getting way too much into the weeds and increase the risk that I'll abandon the project before completion. I do think there's a lot of potential there, though. Maybe I'll run a straight up GLOG game instead one day.

We'll see how far I get....
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Neil on August 31, 2021, 11:23:21 AM
Quote from: The Brain on July 15, 2021, 01:41:26 PM
Got the Colonial Marines book for the Alien RPG. Like the others it's a nice book. Has background info and a 7 part campaign. Some comments though:

Alien/Aliens (my short for the good parts of the Alien universe) has monolithic and faceless non-monster enemies (The Company etc). Describing the setting and organizations in detail kind of takes away the "only put in the background parts necessary for the story" principle that works very well for Alien/Aliens.

My guess is that the makers of the RPG had to take the whole license, ie even the crappy later Ridley Scott movies. Alien 3 and Alien: Resurrection were not good movies, but at least they stuck to the relevant stuff, the xenomorph. The later Scott movies though are very bad from a pure movie perspective and what's worse in this context the whole Engineers BS is thematically completely disconnected from Alien/Aliens. The Engineers stuff could have worked in its own setting, but bolting it onto Alien/Aliens demeans them both. I assume Scott had Engineers ideas and just wanted to cash in on the Alien name, and that's why he made them Alien movies. Fair enough, I respect the hustle, but it didn't make for a great product. So, they had to include Engineers stuff in the campaign. Luckily the adventures are built in a way that makes modifying them fairly simple, making it easy for the GM to do some cleaning (so the players won't have to relive the cringe of Scott making the super cool fossilized alien in the first movie having been literally a guy in a rubber suit, for instance...).
Scott wanted to tell a story that was about humans in space and the idea of meeting your maker, with some of the themes from the Alien movies.  Fox basically mandated that it had to be a prequel.  This is especially apparent in Covenant, where the movie spends huge amounts of time on David and what he's been up to and how it contrasts with Walter, but once the familiar Xenomorph appears, it's quite obvious that Scott doesn't give a damn and is only doing this to get the money from the suits to do what he really wants to do, and the sooner it's over with the better. 

Having leafed through it a bit, it seems to me that it tries to be as agnostic as possible.  I even detected hints of Dark Horse influence here and there.  The problem is that increasing setting descriptiveness helps with sales, and the Alien canon is such a horrendous mess. 
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on September 20, 2021, 07:16:20 AM
Dunno if it's been linked already on Languish, but a pretty handy tool if you need portraits for PCs or NPCs: https://artflow.ai/

Example: i did "100 years old man with a mischievous grin", and this was the result:

(https://i.ibb.co/4TYkJjh/100-years-old-man-with-a-mischievous-grin.jpg)
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Syt on September 20, 2021, 07:52:00 AM
Interesting, but it seems hit and miss on more detailed descriptions.

(https://i.postimg.cc/1XtcfJ9h/nry.png)
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on September 20, 2021, 07:54:11 AM
It's definitely not perfect. And it doesn't have items, like glasses etc.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Barrister on September 20, 2021, 11:09:40 AM
estimated wait time - 225 minutes
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on September 20, 2021, 11:27:56 AM
 :pinch: Yeah they're getting pretty overwhelmed when many people are awake.

Some other examples I did:

(https://i.ibb.co/YRZs182/Gaga.jpg)

(https://i.ibb.co/XXnr1jV/Fulrunkle.jpg)
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: jimmy olsen on October 09, 2021, 08:21:36 PM
Legitimate criticism?  :hmm:

https://www.enworld.org/threads/cthulhu-guns-and-a-sanity-check.596522/
QuoteCall of Cthulhu very famously declares that knowledge of archeology or the Dewey decimal system is at least as important for ensuring the survival of investigators as being well armed. This is supposedly because of the alien, inscrutable nature, of the foe and its nigh immunity to the weapons with which humanity might arm itself. But consider the following case taken directly from the 5e RAW:

A big game hunter on safari with considerable skill in firearms (80% rifle), accidentally startles a black rhino at a range of 30 yards. The Rhino, immediately charges. Fortunately, our intrepid hero already has his heavy rifle in his hands, having just exchanged his lighter weapon with the one his native rifle bearer was carrying precisely because he feared this sort of circumstance. Now, in reality this is truly a life threatening scenario. The hunter must make this shot or in all likelihood he will die. Fortunately, the hunter is very skilled and the player throws a 40 on his dice indicating a hit. So the player dutifully throws 3d6+4 with the result of 15 damage. The GM marks this down to 5 on account of the animals 10 point hide. But the hunter is well equipped, this being a double barreled rifle, he lets fly the other barrel with the rhino now at point blank range and rolls a 16, indicating a an impaling attack. He again rolls, this time indicating 30 damage, which the GM marks down to 20. The rhino, wounded but still not dead, gores the hunter for 20 damage instantly killing him.

From this example, it can be seen that the black rhino is emphatically as immune to firearms in the system as almost all alien horrors. Only a fool would hunt such a beast with less than a 1920's era vehicle mounted heavy machine gun, since less than that certainly favors the rhino. All the .38 caliber police specials, .25 caliber vest pocket guns, .45 caliber Colt M1911's and the occasional double barreled shot guns that the investigators normally carry are no better at protecting them in this situation than they would be against the alien horrors that they are supposed to be afraid of. Indeed, where the whole party equipped with elephant guns they might be only slightly better off. In the game world created by these rules, a 1890's or 1920's investigator ought to be just in horror of animal life as they are of things from beyond.

The reality of course is that even armed with spears and arrows, humanity has been quite able to eradicate to the point of extinction any normal life it chooses to hunt much bigger than a rat, and that by the 1920's the balance of power had shifted to the point that no more than a few thousand European hunters would nearly drive the megafauna of Africa to extinction all on their own. In the game, an elephant gun has only about 50% chance on the first ball of killing a lion or tiger, yet in reality such powerful weapons are generally not used against game as small as the big cats, as the impact will quite literally rip the animal apart and thereby completely ruin your trophy. In reality, the worry with a charging rhino would be that you did not have time to switch to your heavy gun, thereby leaving you needing to a make a perfect shot through a thinner part of the skull or that in the excitement you would not be able to train such a heavy weapons as your elephant gun accurately and that you'd miss, or that the weapon would misfire. Against a rhino, that you'd strike the target and not kill it was not so much of a worry. Against an elephant, that was a more real worry, but even then the elephant gun was 50% likely to get the job done even with the low velocity 4 and 6 bores of an earlier age, much less the large caliber nitro express weapons available from the 1890's on.

In short, two things are completely clear, either the black rhino is vastly overrated, or guns are vastly underrated. The reality may be some of both, but of the two it's the firepower of the guns that is more obviously lacking. One thing that is immediately obvious looking at the firearms rules, is that the writers know nothing about guns. Guns are at times mislabeled, misidentified, poorly described and sometimes given the wrong calibers, or at least the wrong standard calibers. Worse, they seem to have no real clear understanding of the difference in stopping power and lethality of different sorts of guns. For example, let's suppose that the number given for 9mm parabellum of 1d10 damage is believable. If that is the case, then the number given for .25 caliber ACP or .41 caliber short for vest pocket guns of 1d6 is also believable, as is the 2d8 damage assigned to 5.56mm NATO. But the authors seem to have absolutely no understanding how much less stopping power 5.56mm NATO has than high caliber hunting rifles or earlier age battle rifles like the .303 Lee, .30-06, or 7.92x57mm Mauser - all of which do but 2d6+4 damage despite having more than twice as much energy. The minimum damage on these weapons goes up, but the maximum damage doesn't change, which is rather the opposite of what we'd expect of a projectile with more energy since getting clipped through a thin portion of your body is about the same in both cases, but hitting bone or going through thick masses of flesh or punching through armor is a very different proposition. Even crazier, weapons as extreme as the .50 BMG or the 13.2mm TuF meant to destroy vehicles and which are complete overkill versus human targets, only do in the system 2d10+4 damage. In reality, a shot by such weapons have about 5 times the energy of even a hunting rifle, blast a man sized target apart - killing with hits that would not otherwise be lethal - and a single bullet would go through the skull of a charging elephant and travel the 12-18 feet to rip out of the other side.

Musing on this leaves me with tons of questions.

1) First, even with the rules unchanged, the game seems to assume that the players with futz around with .38 colt revolvers, .25 vest guns, sharpened fencing foils and broken table legs as weapons. I think that in reality - especially in the long run - this is unlikely, and we'll see the whole party arrive on site with elephant guns, 10 gauge shot guns, high powered rifles, Tommy guns, braces of Remington model 1890 revolvers firing 44-40, Colt 1911's, boxes of dynamite and 40 gallon drums of gasoline. You wouldn't go hunting even deer or elk with the sort of weaponry they seem to expect investigators to carry, why would you go hunting monsters with such popguns. Even with the rules unchanged, I think this more 'realistic' and 'ruthless' approach vastly changes the dynamics of most published scenarios. All of that is pretty much legal and readily available in 1920's America, which might be why you don't see many mythos creatures around now. Anything less than a Elder God has learned to keep their head down. The reality is that even in the 1920's, mythos creatures appear to be endangered species.

Has anyone had experience with investigators that don't cower in horror and instead take this realistic and ruthless approach to scenarios? If so, what's it like?

2) If we change the firearms rules even slightly to make them more realistic - say changing the damage from a high caliber hunting rifle or battle rifle from 2d6+4 to 3d6+2 so that it realistically can kill a great cat - then the 'ruthless' approach gets even more favorable. Running gun battles might become even less desirable of a thing for investigators to get involved in regularly, but the approach of gunning down mythos monsters starts to become really viable. Lesser races generally would go down in a hail of bullets. Although there are still some great old ones you wouldn't want to fight with less than a pre-sighted artillery barrage, shooting up certain great old ones is not out of the question if the investigators have enough firearms and enough firearms skills. The fact that mythos creatures are largely unknown to society seems in this case to do more with the face that avoiding open warfare with the primitive but savage and dangerous humans is not a bad idea.

Is this scenario all that different than the way the game could actually play now, or would changing the firearms rules to make them more realistic with respect to hunting just be a bad idea all around? If we made the firearms rules more realistic, would we need to tweak the mythos creatures to compensate or would eventual sanity drain and the general doom that comes to anyone that gets within tentacle reach of a mythos creature still get the job done?

Any advice by an experienced keeper would be appreciated.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Habbaku on October 09, 2021, 08:39:38 PM
Treating CoC as a monster-hunt seems like a failure on the part of a GM.  :huh:
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: jimmy olsen on October 09, 2021, 08:57:52 PM
Quote from: Habbaku on October 09, 2021, 08:39:38 PM
Treating CoC as a monster-hunt seems like a failure on the part of a GM.  :huh:
Not every game is a one shot where you gaze upon the true form of Nyarlathotep and get mind blasted into permanent insanity.

Plenty of minor to midsize monsters out there that are material enough to kill and won't drive you completely crazy immediately. Just drip, drip, drip gnawing at your mind over a few years until there's nothing left.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Habbaku on October 09, 2021, 09:20:03 PM
I'm not sure how your response has anything to do with mine. Maybe I missed the part where I wrote that CoC was supposed to be a one-shot.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: jimmy olsen on October 09, 2021, 09:29:47 PM
Quote from: Habbaku on October 09, 2021, 09:20:03 PM
I'm not sure how your response has anything to do with mine. Maybe I missed the part where I wrote that CoC was supposed to be a one-shot.
I'm saying it's not all mind bending cosmic horror. There's plenty of pulp adventure along the way to your inevitable madness/demise.

A lot of Lovercraftian scenarios, from the original fiction, to plenty of CoC campaigns end up as monster hunts or have them along the way to the end game.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: 11B4V on October 10, 2021, 01:10:10 AM
Quote from: Habbaku on October 09, 2021, 08:39:38 PM
Treating CoC as a monster-hunt seems like a failure on the part of a GM.  :huh:

:yes: :yes:
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on October 10, 2021, 02:52:33 AM
I get the impression that the author hasn't GM'ed CoC, so I think that would be a first step towards answering the questions.

More generally, I'm often amazed by the way people seem hung up on details in RPGs, and kind of view them as computer games. Adjusting challenges, tweaking situations, houseruling, and keeping things fun is part of the routine duties of a GM.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Jacob on October 10, 2021, 10:56:14 AM
Quote from: jimmy olsen on October 09, 2021, 09:29:47 PM
A lot of Lovercraftian scenarios, from the original fiction, to plenty of CoC campaigns end up as monster hunts or have them along the way to the end game.

Yeah?

Which Lovecraft stories and classic CoC scenarios end up as monster hunts?
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Habbaku on October 10, 2021, 11:02:22 AM
Quote from: The Brain on October 10, 2021, 02:52:33 AM
I get the impression that the author hasn't GM'ed CoC, so I think that would be a first step towards answering the questions.

More generally, I'm often amazed by the way people seem hung up on details in RPGs, and kind of view them as computer games. Adjusting challenges, tweaking situations, houseruling, and keeping things fun is part of the routine duties of a GM.

For good or ill, D&D has taught many, many people what RPGs are. They see other games through that lens until they have more exposure to the possibilities of alternate tabletop rules and themes, settings, etc.

Not surprising, then, that someone would get hung up on the gritty firearms rules in a cosmic horror game. Hopefully someone pushes back on their misconceptions.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: jimmy olsen on October 10, 2021, 08:05:21 PM
Quote from: Jacob on October 10, 2021, 10:56:14 AM
Quote from: jimmy olsen on October 09, 2021, 09:29:47 PM
A lot of Lovercraftian scenarios, from the original fiction, to plenty of CoC campaigns end up as monster hunts or have them along the way to the end game.

Yeah?

Which Lovecraft stories and classic CoC scenarios end up as monster hunts?
The Dunwhich Horror is the definition of a monster hunt.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: jimmy olsen on October 12, 2021, 10:10:31 PM
Speaking of Call of Cthulhu, today I learned that Call of Cthulhu sells more copies in Japanese than all other languages combined, including English. Also, the average Japanese player is a woman between 17 and 35. :cthulu:

However, I've also learned that they almost all play in the modern period. I can understand not wanting to deal with the wars and the political instability leading up to them, but I would think the Taisho period would be quite ripe for role playing.
https://www.dicebreaker.com/games/call-of-cthulhu-rpg/news/call-of-cthulhu-dnd-japan-rpg (https://www.dicebreaker.com/games/call-of-cthulhu-rpg/news/call-of-cthulhu-dnd-japan-rpg)

Some nice art here
https://imgur.com/a/L76LU#fctZxs1 (https://imgur.com/a/L76LU#fctZxs1)

(https://preview.redd.it/r20khf9olqm41.jpg?width=640&crop=smart&auto=webp&s=d73a869b92dd6b392f5cd083c63373449d1bde79)
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Savonarola on October 14, 2021, 04:06:34 PM
Quote from: jimmy olsen on October 09, 2021, 09:29:47 PM
Quote from: Habbaku on October 09, 2021, 09:20:03 PM
I'm not sure how your response has anything to do with mine. Maybe I missed the part where I wrote that CoC was supposed to be a one-shot.
I'm saying it's not all mind bending cosmic horror. There's plenty of pulp adventure along the way to your inevitable madness/demise.

A lot of Lovercraftian scenarios, from the original fiction, to plenty of CoC campaigns end up as monster hunts or have them along the way to the end game.

If you're not approaching a Total Party Kill / Total Party Insanity at the end of each storyline you're doing it wrong.

;)

The fifth edition has a pulp/weird science sourcebook; so you can play something more akin to a 30s era monster, mad science or supernatural action/adventure movie than a Lovecraft short story.  In such a scenario, though, I think you'd want guns to be under-powered since you don't want your intrepid hero to bite it the first time the villain's cowardly minions draw a gun on him.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Savonarola on October 14, 2021, 04:14:04 PM
Quote from: Habbaku on October 10, 2021, 11:02:22 AM
For good or ill, D&D has taught many, many people what RPGs are. They see other games through that lens until they have more exposure to the possibilities of alternate tabletop rules and themes, settings, etc.

Not surprising, then, that someone would get hung up on the gritty firearms rules in a cosmic horror game. Hopefully someone pushes back on their misconceptions.

Sandy Petersen (who designed the original CoC game) said that he had to try to create a fundamentally different system than D&D.  In D&D Cthulhu would be the boss villain; in CoC he's a cosmic entity that will drive the whole world mad.  If you play the game as straight Lovecraft then I agree that the firearm rules should be mostly an afterthought.  Some combat will (most likely) occur, but that's not really the point of the game.

Edit:  And the "Realistic" and "Ruthless" approaches that the author proposes in the original article sounds like he wants to play Dungeons and Cthulhus; rather than even the pulp scenario I had suggested in my previous post.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on October 14, 2021, 05:20:35 PM
Sweden dodged a lot of the D&D mindset. In the early 80s Swedish company Äventyrsspel released the first RPG in Swedish, and it was powered by the Basic Role-Playing (BRP) system, just like Call of Cthulhu (and others). Äventyrsspel dominated the market in Sweden in the 80s and early 90s, and even if there were other companies releasing RPGs in Swedish and nerds started playing English RPGs when they hit their teens, everyone had played the Äventyrsspel games, and for most it had been their first RPG experience. I think BRP is a vastly superior system to D&D. Some D&D/AD&D stuff was released in Swedish, and I remember testing it a bit, and it felt weird. Unrealistic, contrived, and constrictive. I respect D&D as a great pioneering effort, but IMHO by the 1980s the system was obsolete (from a gaming POV, obviously not from a commercial POV).
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on October 14, 2021, 05:26:31 PM
Today I got a bunch of Cyberpunk 2020 books, the main rulebook and some others. I don't expect to play it, but I really like RPGs from the 80s and early 90s. Especially futuristic ones, the future was a lot cooler back in the day.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Jacob on October 14, 2021, 08:17:02 PM
I enjoyed reading Drakar & Demoner, but never got a chance to play. I wasn't convinced by the presence of anthropomorphic ducks (clear sign of the BRP heritage), but greatly enjoyed the otherwise more grounded medieval North European feel.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Habbaku on October 14, 2021, 08:29:31 PM
Quote from: The Brain on October 14, 2021, 05:26:31 PM
Today I got a bunch of Cyberpunk 2020 books, the main rulebook and some others. I don't expect to play it, but I really like RPGs from the 80s and early 90s. Especially futuristic ones, the future was a lot cooler back in the day.

Probably due to when I grew up, I was exposed to many, many '80s and early '90s books at a formative time, so still have a fondness for many of them. Even the really bad ones. I certainly remember Battletech/Mechwarrior and Shadowrun being really cool. Shadowrun, at least, has continued to be that way by adapting with the times.

These days, though, I stick mostly to mostly historical or historical-fantasy RPGs. There's just too much to keep track of in "the future" unless it's a fantasy-sci-fi game like Starfinder or something more concrete like The Expanse RPG.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Syt on October 19, 2021, 02:40:29 PM
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/FCFgEtoUcAIieUU?format=png&name=small)

From: https://twitter.com/MemesDnd
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Hansmeister on November 27, 2021, 10:24:52 PM
I'm currently running The Enemy Within campaign for Warhammer FRP 4th Edition for two separate groups.  The amount of detail in this campaign is staggering. There are five modules each comes with a main campaign boob and a separate companion book.  Pus thee are separate location books (such as for the city of Middenheim where two of the modules are based).  In the end there are over 2,000 pages of material for the campaign. Every character, no matter how minor, has a detailed background description with potential story hooks.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on November 28, 2021, 02:20:02 AM
Quote from: Hansmeister on November 27, 2021, 10:24:52 PM
I'm currently running The Enemy Within campaign for Warhammer FRP 4th Edition for two separate groups.  The amount of detail in this campaign is staggering. There are five modules each comes with a main campaign boob and a separate companion book.  Pus thee are separate location books (such as for the city of Middenheim where two of the modules are based).  In the end there are over 2,000 pages of material for the campaign. Every character, no matter how minor, has a detailed background description with potential story hooks.

I'm currently playing it (not running it). I didn't experience it back in the day, so it's nice that it has returned. :)
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Sophie Scholl on December 02, 2021, 10:13:55 AM
Quote from: Hansmeister on November 27, 2021, 10:24:52 PM
I'm currently running The Enemy Within campaign for Warhammer FRP 4th Edition for two separate groups.  The amount of detail in this campaign is staggering. There are five modules each comes with a main campaign boob and a separate companion book.  Pus thee are separate location books (such as for the city of Middenheim where two of the modules are based).  In the end there are over 2,000 pages of material for the campaign. Every character, no matter how minor, has a detailed background description with potential story hooks.
Love the setting and world building, hate the rules. A lot. I've tried to stomach campaigns twice and just cannot stand how dreadful the rules system is. Also, I think the breadth of the setting can hurt it if the group and gm aren't focused on making a coherent narrative and party.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: crazy canuck on December 07, 2021, 03:11:38 PM
Quote from: Syt on October 19, 2021, 02:40:29 PM
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/FCFgEtoUcAIieUU?format=png&name=small)

From: https://twitter.com/MemesDnd

:lol:
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Syt on December 30, 2021, 02:17:39 AM
For fans of Star Trek TNG/DS9/VOY era who are into p&p rpgs this HumblBundle might be worth checking out: https://www.humblebundle.com/books/star-trek-adventures-rpg-modiphius-2021-books
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Jacob on December 31, 2021, 03:51:54 PM
Reading/ playing through Warlock of Firetop Mountain (Fighting Fantasy) with my boy. I remember getting the book one Christmas around his age and being absolutely enthralled. Pretty soon after that I was off to the races with Basic D&D.

He rolled exceedingly well during character creation, so we've been dealing with even tough challenges fairly easily. I fear I may be setting him up with expectations of success that are too high....
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Caliga on December 31, 2021, 06:12:57 PM
 :cool:

My first Fighting Fantasy gamebook was Caverns of the Snow Witch but I got Warlock either second or third, the other book being House of Hades (which IIRC was released as House of Hell in the UK/Canada).
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Darth Wagtaros on January 02, 2022, 11:15:27 AM
Wish I could play in a Forgotten Realms game.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Syt on January 02, 2022, 12:30:29 PM
Quote from: Caliga on December 31, 2021, 06:12:57 PM
:cool:

My first Fighting Fantasy gamebook was Caverns of the Snow Witch but I got Warlock either second or third, the other book being House of Hades (which IIRC was released as House of Hell in the UK/Canada).

Mine was Starship Traveller that a classmate brought to school. I know it has a bit of a mixed reputation, not least for having a critical path that is very easy to miss early on. Oddly, that didn't bother me much. I was much more taken by its capturing the feeling of a series of Star Trek episodes (the book is structured into a number of planets/situations you encounter) and by how big and expansive it made the book feel at the time.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Darth Wagtaros on January 02, 2022, 12:38:24 PM
I used to play Champions and Fantasy Heroes.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on January 02, 2022, 01:36:56 PM
Played mostly Lone Wolf.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Syt on January 02, 2022, 02:53:59 PM
Quote from: The Brain on January 02, 2022, 01:36:56 PM
Played mostly Lone Wolf.

Yeah, me to. :)
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on February 14, 2022, 08:08:54 AM
Has anyone read the modern RuneQuest books (rulebook, bestiary, etc)? Are they nice books? I have never played RuneQuest.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: C.C.R. on February 27, 2022, 09:52:41 PM
Quote from: Darth Wagtaros on January 02, 2022, 11:15:27 AMWish I could play in a Forgotten Realms game.

I'm running Icewind Dale: Rime of the Frostmaiden for my fiancee, one of my daughters & a few friends right now. Good times...

 :ccr
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Jacob on February 28, 2022, 12:23:29 AM
Quote from: C.C.R. on February 27, 2022, 09:52:41 PM
Quote from: Darth Wagtaros on January 02, 2022, 11:15:27 AMWish I could play in a Forgotten Realms game.

I'm running Icewind Dale: Rime of the Frostmaiden for my fiancee, one of my daughters & a few friends right now. Good times...

 :ccr

Sounds like a good time :cheers:

... and good to see you :)
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on February 28, 2022, 02:45:15 AM
Quote from: C.C.R. on February 27, 2022, 09:52:41 PM
Quote from: Darth Wagtaros on January 02, 2022, 11:15:27 AMWish I could play in a Forgotten Realms game.

I'm running Icewind Dale: Rime of the Frostmaiden for my fiancee, one of my daughters & a few friends right now. Good times...

 :ccr

I might play in that when one of my current campaigns is done. :ccr
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Sophie Scholl on February 28, 2022, 01:53:46 PM
I'm planning on joining a 5e campaign for my first run with D&D in over a decade outside of some one shots. I plan on going with a Tiefling Paladin on the Redemption path. Should be fun!
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on March 16, 2022, 03:21:44 PM
Just got the The One Ring 2nd Ed rulebook. Never owned/played the 1st ed, but I had a lot of fun in MERP back in the day, so nice to see another take on RPG in Middle-Earth.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: CountDeMoney on March 16, 2022, 03:44:59 PM
Quote from: The Brain on March 16, 2022, 03:21:44 PMJust got the The One Ring 2nd Ed rulebook. Never owned/played the 1st ed, but I had a lot of fun in MERP back in the day, so nice to see another take on RPG in Middle-Earth.

I appreciate the fact that it's in those decades between Hobbit and Fellowship, so you can campaign for a lifetime in a familiar setting without being railroaded into specific plotlines.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Sophie Scholl on March 16, 2022, 04:34:28 PM
Quote from: The Brain on March 16, 2022, 03:21:44 PMJust got the The One Ring 2nd Ed rulebook. Never owned/played the 1st ed, but I had a lot of fun in MERP back in the day, so nice to see another take on RPG in Middle-Earth.
I was part of a 5 year irl campaign using 1st edition and it stands as the best system I've ever used in a rpg. I backed the Kickstarter for the second edition and have all manner of goodies. STarter set, book, dice, giant cloth map, and another book on the way. I really, really hope I can find a crew to run it with. I have dreams of adapting some of the material from MERP and the Appendices to run a fall of Arnor campaign. As Seedy mentions, the base era is definitely perfectly aligned to have some fun adventures without fucking things up and being beholden to major events overly.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on March 16, 2022, 04:35:56 PM
Quote from: Sophie Scholl on March 16, 2022, 04:34:28 PM
Quote from: The Brain on March 16, 2022, 03:21:44 PMJust got the The One Ring 2nd Ed rulebook. Never owned/played the 1st ed, but I had a lot of fun in MERP back in the day, so nice to see another take on RPG in Middle-Earth.
I was part of a 5 year irl campaign and it stands as the best system I've ever used in a rpg. I backed the Kickstarter for the second edition and have all manner of goodies. STarter set, book, dice, giant cloth map, and another book on the way. I really, really hope I can find a crew to run it with. I have dreams of adapting some of the material from MERP and the Appendices to run a fall of Arnor campaign.

:nerd:

Cool. :) Do you hope to play IRL or online?
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Sophie Scholl on March 16, 2022, 04:44:12 PM
Either. The 5 year campaign had to be finished up in the COVID era, so I played both ways. In person is far more fun in my opinion, but online is workable if necessary. We used to have "Hobbit Feasts" during the IRL days where everyone would bring one or two dishes to share and we'd all have a nice meal before starting into a session. Things like that and the much more fluid manner of play that is possible when people can see each other to pick up on social cues and what not makes it far far better.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on March 16, 2022, 04:53:48 PM
Quote from: Sophie Scholl on March 16, 2022, 04:44:12 PMEither. The 5 year campaign had to be finished up in the COVID era, so I played both ways. In person is far more fun in my opinion, but online is workable if necessary. We used to have "Hobbit Feasts" during the IRL days where everyone would bring one or two dishes to share and we'd all have a nice meal before starting into a session. Things like that and the much more fluid manner of play that is possible when people can see each other to pick up on social cues and what not makes it far far better.

Good luck! :)

I have learnt to be completely fine with online play, where everyone is on video. With modules for the game there are even advantages.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: CountDeMoney on March 16, 2022, 05:42:31 PM
Quote from: Sophie Scholl on March 16, 2022, 04:34:28 PMI have dreams of adapting some of the material from MERP and the Appendices to run a fall of Arnor campaign. As Seedy mentions, the base era is definitely perfectly aligned to have some fun adventures without fucking things up and being beholden to major events overly.

In a mildly related and completely predictable vein, I've been collecting a shit ton of 1st and 2nd edition ICE MERP stuff the last couple years.  If you need pdfs, let me know.  God knows that shit is expensive.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Jacob on March 16, 2022, 06:13:23 PM
Quote from: CountDeMoney on March 16, 2022, 05:42:31 PM
Quote from: Sophie Scholl on March 16, 2022, 04:34:28 PMI have dreams of adapting some of the material from MERP and the Appendices to run a fall of Arnor campaign. As Seedy mentions, the base era is definitely perfectly aligned to have some fun adventures without fucking things up and being beholden to major events overly.

In a mildly related and completely predictable vein, I've been collecting a shit ton of 1st and 2nd edition ICE MERP stuff the last couple years.  If you need pdfs, let me know.  God knows that shit is expensive.

Ooooh! Cool!

Where are you getting the PDFs?
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Sophie Scholl on March 16, 2022, 06:20:42 PM
Quote from: CountDeMoney on March 16, 2022, 05:42:31 PMIn a mildly related and completely predictable vein, I've been collecting a shit ton of 1st and 2nd edition ICE MERP stuff the last couple years.  If you need pdfs, let me know.  God knows that shit is expensive.
I think I have most/all of the pdf's? If you have any holes in your collection, I can check mine!
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: CountDeMoney on March 16, 2022, 06:21:29 PM
Quote from: Jacob on March 16, 2022, 06:13:23 PMOoooh! Cool!

Where are you getting the PDFs?

I scored a bunch of scanned copies from a guy that was selling them "for personal use" only, but as I've been collecting mint hard copies whenever I can, I have quite a bit now. I have more MERP modules and supplements than I don't at this point. 
The maps from those original ICE productions are simply too beautiful to be satisfied with scanned copies.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Sophie Scholl on March 16, 2022, 06:32:00 PM
Quote from: CountDeMoney on March 16, 2022, 06:21:29 PMI scored a bunch of scanned copies from a guy that was selling them "for personal use" only, but as I've been collecting mint hard copies whenever I can, I have quite a bit now. I have more MERP modules and supplements than I don't at this point. 
The maps from those original ICE productions are simply too beautiful to be satisfied with scanned copies.
100%. I nabbed a copy of the Minas Ithil book with the map in pristine condition and I'm sorely tempted to frame it.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: CountDeMoney on March 16, 2022, 06:33:15 PM
You guys thought I was too goofy collecting shit years ago, you should see what I've amassed now. :ph34r:

My storage unit AKA the Toy Chest--

(https://cf.geekdo-images.com/MuaA7UDhUu8nGSj56bzpSQ__imagepagezoom/img/HgY-9yZd5-S9x6t7OCItyYGJP4k=/fit-in/1200x900/filters:no_upscale():strip_icc()/pic6692798.png)

I've been on a real vintage RPG kick the last couple years; managed to score a lot of older 80s/90s stuff.

Been making a killing on the estate auction market.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: CountDeMoney on March 16, 2022, 06:34:35 PM
Quote from: Sophie Scholl on March 16, 2022, 06:32:00 PM100%. I nabbed a copy of the Minas Ithil book with the map in pristine condition and I'm sorely tempted to frame it.

Get it high-resolution scanned by a professional framer and do it that way.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Sophie Scholl on March 16, 2022, 06:37:12 PM
Quote from: CountDeMoney on March 16, 2022, 06:33:15 PMYou guys thought I was too goofy collecting shit years ago, you should see what I've amassed now. :ph34r:

My storage unit AKA the Toy Chest--

*snip*
I've heard of a dusty stack, but that, sir, is a dusty storage locker! I'm not sure whether to be impressed or afraid. A little of both I think!  :lol:
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: CountDeMoney on March 16, 2022, 06:40:52 PM
Quote from: Sophie Scholl on March 16, 2022, 06:37:12 PMI've heard of a dusty stack, but that, sir, is a dusty storage locker! I'm not sure whether to be impressed or afraid. A little of both I think!  :lol:

lol, shit is catalogued, in spreadsheet with value accounted for and insured.
I'll be goddamned I get whacked, and Mom's selling my shit at a yard sale for $5.

I'll be ramping it all down, though. Time to sell a lot of it off.  Closer to the end of the game than the beginning, you know.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Habbaku on March 17, 2022, 01:12:15 PM
I'm here if you need a stable buyer.  :wub:
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Jacob on March 17, 2022, 03:05:37 PM
Quote from: CountDeMoney on March 16, 2022, 06:33:15 PMYou guys thought I was too goofy collecting shit years ago, you should see what I've amassed now. :ph34r:

My storage unit AKA the Toy Chest--

I've been on a real vintage RPG kick the last couple years; managed to score a lot of older 80s/90s stuff.

Been making a killing on the estate auction market.

Oh wow... impressive :cheers:
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: 11B4V on March 18, 2022, 01:32:02 AM
Quote from: CountDeMoney on March 16, 2022, 06:33:15 PMYou guys thought I was too goofy collecting shit years ago, you should see what I've amassed now. :ph34r:

My storage unit AKA the Toy Chest--

(https://cf.geekdo-images.com/MuaA7UDhUu8nGSj56bzpSQ__imagepagezoom/img/HgY-9yZd5-S9x6t7OCItyYGJP4k=/fit-in/1200x900/filters:no_upscale():strip_icc()/pic6692798.png)

I've been on a real vintage RPG kick the last couple years; managed to score a lot of older 80s/90s stuff.

Been making a killing on the estate auction market.

That's money right there... :cheers:
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Syt on March 18, 2022, 02:17:09 AM
Quote from: CountDeMoney on March 16, 2022, 06:33:15 PMYou guys thought I was too goofy collecting shit years ago, you should see what I've amassed now. :ph34r:

My storage unit AKA the Toy Chest--

(https://cf.geekdo-images.com/MuaA7UDhUu8nGSj56bzpSQ__imagepagezoom/img/HgY-9yZd5-S9x6t7OCItyYGJP4k=/fit-in/1200x900/filters:no_upscale():strip_icc()/pic6692798.png)

I've been on a real vintage RPG kick the last couple years; managed to score a lot of older 80s/90s stuff.

Been making a killing on the estate auction market.

Coming soon, on Storage Wars ... :P
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Jacob on April 05, 2022, 01:29:35 AM
So I started a blog for my various OSR / D&D houserules. It has a grand total of two (2) posts so far. Maybe it'll have more posts in the future.

The blog is called Binder Full of Notes (https://binderfullofnotes.blogspot.com/).

In theory it'll lots of content, but we'll see how much I'll follow through.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: celedhring on April 05, 2022, 01:37:38 AM
Quote from: Jacob on April 05, 2022, 01:29:35 AMSo I started a blog for my various OSR / D&D houserules. It has a grand total of two (2) posts so far. Maybe it'll have more posts in the future.

The blog is called Binder Full of Notes (https://binderfullofnotes.blogspot.com/).

In theory it'll lots of content, but we'll see how much I'll follow through.

Interesting! I'll follow.

Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: celedhring on April 10, 2022, 09:57:14 AM
My brother has been saying he wants to DM a campaign, so I was thinking of buying him a tabletop RPG for his birthday. Any recommendation? He digs medieval fantasy stuff, and we already play D&D 5e.

Old games aren't out of the question if I can track down copies on the used market.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Habbaku on April 10, 2022, 10:00:54 AM
Can you give some idea of what he's looking for in terms of running a game?

Does he want to come up with tactical combat scenarios for the players to solve to the best of their abilities? Is he after a game that's heavy on roleplaying and less on dice? Does he want political intrigue? High fantasy, light-on-magic fantasy? Gritty magic?

I have a lot of recommendations, possibly.  :lol:
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: celedhring on April 10, 2022, 10:42:30 AM
He certainly digs tactical combat and the dice rolling component of the experience. He also wants an engaging background, though.

As for his tastes, he likes high fantasy stuff with a gritty touch.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Syt on April 10, 2022, 10:57:33 AM
If he likes tactical combat, check out The Dark Eye, maybe. Though it tends to be VERY stat heavy. :D
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: celedhring on April 16, 2022, 02:10:09 AM
My brother has been talking about Rune Quest. We used to play it a lot when we were both teens (I still keep all the books in a decent state), and there's a new edition out. Anybody knows if it's any good?
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Darth Wagtaros on April 16, 2022, 07:20:45 AM
Think finding a D&D group over Discord would be good?  Anybody done it? I don't know anyone locally who'd play.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Jacob on April 16, 2022, 09:35:16 PM
Playing on discord works, I think. Dunno about finding a group, but I don't see why not - and I know folks who've done it.

Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on April 18, 2022, 11:53:22 AM
Quote from: celedhring on April 16, 2022, 02:10:09 AMMy brother has been talking about Rune Quest. We used to play it a lot when we were both teens (I still keep all the books in a decent state), and there's a new edition out. Anybody knows if it's any good?

The current edition of RuneQuest is more tightly tied to the world Glorantha than earlier editions. Of course anything is possible to do, but as written my impression is that it's good to want to play in that world. An alternative is Mythras, which is essentially the previous version of RuneQuest, maybe slightly modified, that The Design Mechanism publishes since Chaosium took back RuneQuest for the latest edition.

NB I haven't played any of them.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on April 18, 2022, 02:36:18 PM
I played For The Queen, one of those card-prompted free form RPGs. It was great fun, I haven't played that kind of RPG before. No prep and lots of story in a short time. Nice.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Syt on April 18, 2022, 03:07:35 PM
Quote from: The Brain on April 18, 2022, 02:36:18 PMI played For The Queen, one of those card-prompted free form RPGs. It was great fun, I haven't played that kind of RPG before. No prep and lots of story in a short time. Nice.

Have you tried Fiasco? It's a great base for single session freeform RPing, and it has tons of free modules out there.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on April 18, 2022, 03:19:33 PM
Quote from: Syt on April 18, 2022, 03:07:35 PM
Quote from: The Brain on April 18, 2022, 02:36:18 PMI played For The Queen, one of those card-prompted free form RPGs. It was great fun, I haven't played that kind of RPG before. No prep and lots of story in a short time. Nice.

Have you tried Fiasco? It's a great base for single session freeform RPing, and it has tons of free modules out there.

Haven't tried it. But it's not impossible I might, I think one of my gaming groups has played it.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: The Brain on November 28, 2022, 02:18:41 AM
I read The One Ring: Ruins of the Lost Realm, which describes Eriador in late TA. In many ways it's fine, nice layout and illustrations, but in some ways it feels off. For instance, there's an adventure site where the PCs can find [SPOILER]a stash of important items from Fornost that Arvedui had to abandon in his flight. This would seem like a major find to me and most PCs, and you expect there to be interesting unique artifacts, not necessarily combat stuff but cool stuff, with potential for further adventure to bring it to interested parties or similar. Except they have all rotted away and there's only some gold details left that can be collected for a monetary reward. Wut? Yeah cause not finding cool old stuff is soo Tolkienesque.

One basic problem of the The One Ring RPG is the setting, near the end of TA. Yeah you can meet Bilbo etc, but the land is so very empty. They even resurrected Tharbad just to have a city to present. The old MERP had as its main setting TA 1640 (IIRC), which made for a more lively world, and with greater freedom. NB it wasn't the only era, for instance the Moria module was set after the Dwarves left.
Title: Re: Real RPGs, none of that new fangled computer bullshit
Post by: Sophie Scholl on November 28, 2022, 02:45:38 AM
Yeah. The timing is a little rough for TOR. I absolutely love the system and it was an amazing one to play in as a player (and from what I've heard to gm, too), but the timing is meh. Especially with the focus on the North so much. The original plan for 2nd edition was to be set in Gondor, but they changed it.

I still hope to one day run a campaign adapting some of the MERP and other ideas/eras into either a fall of the North Kingdom/Arthedain campaign or a fall of Minas Ithil campaign. The latter seems to have been done in the second Shadows of Mordor game I think? Which... makes it a bit of a pain to re-do, but also means there is a lot of great content for visuals of things. Also, there is the MERP book and map for Minas Ithil (which I own). Ultimately though, I think it would be a lot of fun and provide some amazing rp possibilities to have the party be part of the contingent of Hobbit archers sent from the Shire to the Battle of Fornost.