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boy_bakal
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Lord of Pwnage
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| Joined: 30 Nov 2006 |
| Posts: 1920 |
| Location: Zero |
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Posted: Sat Mar 31, 2007 2:44 am Post subject: Summer Campaign for the DnD Regulars |
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Alright, so I'm planning a quick summer campaign because a) I really enjoy DMing and most of my newbie players won't be around in the summer, b) I wanna try DMing the guys who taught me how to play DnD, and c) I would appreciate feedback from the more experienced players about the way I DM, i.e. what I'm doing right and what I'm doing wrong. Ultimately, aside from the fact that I actually want to DM a short campaign, hopefully I can refine my style enough that by next semester my campaign sessions can go off without any major problems.
Okay, so this is how it's gonna go down:
i) Currently, there are no players. If you wish to join, merely post a reply to this thread and say so. If I get enough people for a standard party, we're good to go.
ii) Players start at ECL 4 (with wealth of the appropriate level as determined by the DMG, of which they cannot spend more than 1/4 on any single item). Stats may be rolled at the tambayan where I can witness them, normal rules for reroll apply. Only one set of stats, however. An alternative option for the player is the point buy system, and for purposes of this campaign I will be using 32 point buy.
And now, some House Rules/Notes:
-Fractional modifiers apply in calculating BAB, but not in calculating saves. BAB is simple enough to calculate in this way and it gives multiclass characters more flexibility, but fractions for saves are messy, therefore I do not wish to employ them.
-Magic transparency with Psionics applies. This is just the simplest option for me. If somebody would like to provide me with a copy of XPH so I can study the Psionics is Different variant, he or she is more than welcome to do so, and as such I might consider implementing that particular variant in my campaign (something I'd prefer, actually, since it's flavorwise more accurate; however, it simply isn't practical if I can't browse XPH).
-On Sourcebooks: everything is open. As long as it's fully 3.5, and as long as it's an official WotC source, it isn't a problem. If it's 3.0, I might alter it accordingly, but it's prolly ok. The newbie campaign has a restricted list because I don't want to give them tons of options they can never use. In contrast, I trust you guys to be experienced enough to know what you're doing, and as such I give you all the go ahead to go crazy. And yes, consequently this means that, as in the newbie campaign, I do not discourage powergaming. Nor do I encourage it. But I definitely don't discourage it.
Two exceptions: Unearthed Arcana and Dragon Magazines. UA is an exception because it deals mostly in variant rules, and as such using any particular part of it will be the DM's call. Unfortunately, as I am rather new to this game, I find some of the UA stuff to be rather messy. However, if there is a particular variant that you think would be beneficial to the campaign, you can tell me about it and I'll look it up. If the other players agree that that variant is reasonable, then I will integrate it into my campaign, on the condition that a) I can understand how it works, and b) I find it reasonable. Definitely, Flaws and LA buyoff are good to go for my campaign. On the other hand, Gestalt characters are not. They're simply too convoluted for me.
As for Dragon mags... I don't really have access to them. Therefore Dragon mags are subject to DM approval.
While we're on the subject, I do have one caveat: I will require players to have at hand a copy of the RAW for any spells, powers, class features, magical items, feats, what-have-you that they wish to employ during game time (except stuff in the corebooks, because those are always at the game table anyways). If there is a situation in which I need confirmation for the effects of a particular action and no such confirmation can be provided by the player, that player's character performs the action to no effect whatsoever (if applicable), or cannot perform the action at all (otherwise). While this isn't a problem for more mundane things (things in core, for example, or spells i'm already somewhat familiar with, either because you've used it before or I've used it before), I want to be sure that we get accurate results for the more complex situations. So I think that's reasonable enough, yes?
-6 players max during any given game session. Ideally, a party should consist of only 4 people. I am implementing this rule for two reasons: first, because handling more than 6 people is a bit difficult for me, and second, because I don't want to slow down the rate at which everybody gains XP.
That about does it for now. Tentatively I'm scheduling this for the summer, from 2 onwards. My pending summer sched means classes 'til 1, and I need that extra hour for travel, lunch, preparations, etc. I'll prolly alternate with Mark and/or Tope, since they'll be having campaigns in the summer as well. I prefer to take the TF slot, but I can make do with just the Wednesday spot since I'm not planning to take the campaign into the high levels anyway (though if I find we have time for it, this is definitely a possibility).
_________________
And I'm still, still longing. Still cold... so cold. |
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Pitz-Ikko
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D' Original Henio
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| Joined: 16 Jan 2007 |
| Posts: 719 |
| Location: Abu Dhabi |
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Posted: Sat Mar 31, 2007 2:58 pm Post subject: |
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| Quote: | | While we're on the subject, I do have one caveat: I will require players to have at hand a copy of the RAW for any spells, powers, class features, magical items, feats, what-have-you that they wish to employ during game time (except stuff in the corebooks, because those are always at the game table anyways). If there is a situation in which I need confirmation for the effects of a particular action and no such confirmation can be provided by the player, that player's character performs the action to no effect whatsoever (if applicable), or cannot perform the action at all (otherwise). While this isn't a problem for more mundane things (things in core, for example, or spells i'm already somewhat familiar with, either because you've used it before or I've used it before), I want to be sure that we get accurate results for the more complex situations. So I think that's reasonable enough, yes? |
I suggest that you nevertheless require everyone to have a separate copy of every spell in their repertoire, every magic item in their inventory, heck, even every ability and feat their PC has. This way, you cut down on the time looking it up from the books and even just trying to find where the d@mned book is (believe me, I know how messy it can be over there!). I employed this on my more recent games here and it was just easier this way.
_________________
A little surprising, really...
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quickbrownfox
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Adult Dragon
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| Joined: 29 Dec 2006 |
| Posts: 163 |
| Location: TSAB Section 6 Headquarters |
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Posted: Sun Apr 01, 2007 5:34 pm Post subject: |
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Can I tag along?
Since I'm planning to take summer classes, the experience would be nice, and I'd learn a bit more, since you're planning it for the veterans. I think I'll get the hang of it over time and a bit of prodding in the right direction. |
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boy_bakal
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Lord of Pwnage
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| Joined: 30 Nov 2006 |
| Posts: 1920 |
| Location: Zero |
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Posted: Sun Apr 01, 2007 6:17 pm Post subject: |
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Sure, no problem. The only player so far is BJ anyway, so the total roster is just you and him right now.
And yes, I think it would be a good opportunity to learn more about the system. Experienced players know more, so they have a lot more things to teach. 
Just keep your afternoons open. I actually haven't thought of it much yet, but I figure I can come up with some nice EL 4+ encounters during downtime XD
_________________
And I'm still, still longing. Still cold... so cold. |
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Revan
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Sith'ari, Chosen Heart of the Force
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| Joined: 04 Dec 2006 |
| Posts: 1552 |
| Location: Korriban |
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Posted: Tue Apr 03, 2007 12:12 am Post subject: |
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I'm good to go, barring random, irrational acts of God, men, or schedule. Will see after enrollment for summer.
_________________
Words are the only bullets in truth's bandolier. And poets are the snipers.
-George Wu (The Hyperion Cantos, Dan Simmons) |
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dark_axis
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Eternal Elan
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| Joined: 02 Jan 2007 |
| Posts: 1898 |
| Location: 666th Layer of Hell |
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Posted: Wed Apr 04, 2007 8:29 am Post subject: |
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not sure yet if i get to apply for a job and the time is good I'm good to go.
_________________
Only by confronting your darkest fears can you find the light...
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don5
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Young Adult Dragon
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| Joined: 10 Dec 2006 |
| Posts: 63 |
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Posted: Wed Apr 04, 2007 8:48 pm Post subject: |
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Xtian
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Goderator
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| Joined: 30 Nov 2006 |
| Posts: 3260 |
| Location: Avernus |
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Posted: Wed Apr 04, 2007 11:44 pm Post subject: |
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My status this summer is still not yet sure. But I am interested.
| Quote: | | will. join. but. warn you. me nube |
Then we will sacrifice you nube to our dark gods to gain single usage of wish. Two wishes if you are a virgin.  |
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boy_bakal
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Lord of Pwnage
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| Joined: 30 Nov 2006 |
| Posts: 1920 |
| Location: Zero |
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Posted: Thu Apr 05, 2007 9:25 am Post subject: |
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actually, several of the newbies have already decided to join. so I'm thinking the party could be half-veteran, half-newbie. that way the new DnDers can learn some tips and tricks that the more experienced players employ XD
i can still make it work. i can tone down the encounters a bit (as opposed to my original plans). still, everything will be open, so i encourage the pros to help the noobs during character creation, i.e. what builds might be good, etc.
admittedly, haven't started yet. i'm planning on designing the entire dungeon during vacation time. i should be able to come up with at least 3 or 4 floors by the time summer classes start XD
_________________
And I'm still, still longing. Still cold... so cold. |
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dark_axis
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Eternal Elan
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| Joined: 02 Jan 2007 |
| Posts: 1898 |
| Location: 666th Layer of Hell |
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Posted: Fri Apr 06, 2007 12:23 pm Post subject: |
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If that's so then we the veterans will bathe with bloods of the noobs. They will drown in their own blood regreting every moment till their last breathe is robbed out of them.
_________________
Only by confronting your darkest fears can you find the light...
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Pitz-Ikko
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D' Original Henio
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| Joined: 16 Jan 2007 |
| Posts: 719 |
| Location: Abu Dhabi |
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Posted: Sun Apr 08, 2007 1:52 am Post subject: |
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Of course, you can also run a really noob-friendly game, much like RPG for Dummies mode. Like allowing only the three Core Rulebooks...
_________________
A little surprising, really...
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boy_bakal
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Lord of Pwnage
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| Joined: 30 Nov 2006 |
| Posts: 1920 |
| Location: Zero |
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Posted: Sun Apr 08, 2007 2:04 pm Post subject: |
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nah, the Iron Maiden is already more noob-oriented. I wanna try DMing something that has less restrictions.
and yes, blood baths ensue. everyone is at a high enough level to do that from the get go. all i'm gonna do is provide the setting, and you guys can take it from there.
_________________
And I'm still, still longing. Still cold... so cold. |
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showerlist
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Young Dragon
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| Joined: 04 Apr 2007 |
| Posts: 18 |
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Posted: Mon Apr 09, 2007 9:05 pm Post subject: one two three. |
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| i'm ready to get sucked dry. |
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boy_bakal
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Lord of Pwnage
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| Joined: 30 Nov 2006 |
| Posts: 1920 |
| Location: Zero |
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Posted: Mon Apr 09, 2007 10:13 pm Post subject: |
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ooh, there is so much that could be said of the above choice of words...
but in any case, that's good. very, very good... :3
_________________
And I'm still, still longing. Still cold... so cold. |
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dark_axis
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Eternal Elan
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| Joined: 02 Jan 2007 |
| Posts: 1898 |
| Location: 666th Layer of Hell |
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Posted: Mon Apr 09, 2007 10:45 pm Post subject: |
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sucked dry of what???? 
_________________
Only by confronting your darkest fears can you find the light...
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boy_bakal
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Lord of Pwnage
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| Joined: 30 Nov 2006 |
| Posts: 1920 |
| Location: Zero |
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Posted: Mon Apr 09, 2007 11:42 pm Post subject: |
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blood, i'm assuming. you know, because blood baths shall ensue?
_________________
And I'm still, still longing. Still cold... so cold. |
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Xtian
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Goderator
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| Joined: 30 Nov 2006 |
| Posts: 3260 |
| Location: Avernus |
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Posted: Mon Apr 09, 2007 11:45 pm Post subject: |
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| Only the blood of noobs shall be sucked dry! |
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boy_bakal
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Lord of Pwnage
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| Joined: 30 Nov 2006 |
| Posts: 1920 |
| Location: Zero |
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Posted: Tue Apr 10, 2007 12:33 am Post subject: |
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that's the idea
_________________
And I'm still, still longing. Still cold... so cold. |
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Xtian
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Goderator
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| Joined: 30 Nov 2006 |
| Posts: 3260 |
| Location: Avernus |
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Posted: Sun Apr 22, 2007 5:44 pm Post subject: |
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THere are feats from Dragon Mag i want to be approved. Specifically from Dragon #340, the attack of opportunity feats. I've used some of those feats on Mark's game and it was fine.
And SRD is allowed right?
I'm considering getting knock-down. |
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boy_bakal
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Lord of Pwnage
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| Joined: 30 Nov 2006 |
| Posts: 1920 |
| Location: Zero |
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Posted: Sun Apr 22, 2007 7:34 pm Post subject: |
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again, as i've said, bring a printout to the table. i've been fairly lenient with this rule so far but i think i should start enforcing it more strictly from now on.
as for knock-down... i guess it's ok, since the SRD is an auto-in. i can tell how abusable it is with just one glance, though (esp. given your build)
_________________
And I'm still, still longing. Still cold... so cold. |
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Xtian
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Goderator
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| Joined: 30 Nov 2006 |
| Posts: 3260 |
| Location: Avernus |
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Posted: Sun Apr 22, 2007 8:36 pm Post subject: |
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It is not abuse you know. My tricks are all within my resource. And my tricks are only useful at low levels. I see my character struggling when we hit level 7 onwards. It could be lower, depending on you throw your monsters.
There are quite a number of creatures in monster manual that are immune trip. Flying creatures for example and nagas and snakes and centipedes and ... got to stop giving suggestions ...
hmmm ... exotic weapon proficiency (whip dagger) ...
30 ft reach ...
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boy_bakal
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Lord of Pwnage
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| Joined: 30 Nov 2006 |
| Posts: 1920 |
| Location: Zero |
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Posted: Sun Apr 22, 2007 9:34 pm Post subject: |
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yeah, i know. good thing the campaign isn't gonna get past the higher levels ^_^
it's all good. i said it before and i'll say it again, in this campaign you can powergame to your heart's content. it's a very basic world i've created and i kind of like the way it's going right now. however, i rely on you as PC's to alter it as you see fit.
think of it as a personal experiment in how to properly DM roleplay situations. therefore the combat etc. isn't that much of a concern to me XD
_________________
And I'm still, still longing. Still cold... so cold. |
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Xtian
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Goderator
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| Joined: 30 Nov 2006 |
| Posts: 3260 |
| Location: Avernus |
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Posted: Sun Apr 22, 2007 9:37 pm Post subject: |
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What!? We are suppose to powergame?!?!?!?
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boy_bakal
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Lord of Pwnage
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| Joined: 30 Nov 2006 |
| Posts: 1920 |
| Location: Zero |
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Posted: Sun Apr 22, 2007 10:11 pm Post subject: |
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oh, sorry. i meant powergaming is not discouraged. neither is it encouraged, but, you know... it's not discouraged.
_________________
And I'm still, still longing. Still cold... so cold. |
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Xtian
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Goderator
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| Joined: 30 Nov 2006 |
| Posts: 3260 |
| Location: Avernus |
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Posted: Sun Apr 22, 2007 10:48 pm Post subject: |
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Ah ok. I just want to build a character that can benefit the party as a whole. Somewhat like an asset in which the party will be at lost without me, a character that can pull his own weight. That's why even if I can, I don't create invincible or very hard to kill characters. And aside from my death knight (evil) I don't play evil characters. ^__^
But one day ... I will play one. |
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Pitz-Ikko
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D' Original Henio
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| Joined: 16 Jan 2007 |
| Posts: 719 |
| Location: Abu Dhabi |
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Posted: Mon Apr 23, 2007 12:57 am Post subject: |
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| Xtian wrote: | | Ah ok. I just want to build a character that can benefit the party as a whole. Somewhat like an asset in which the party will be at lost without me, a character that can pull his own weight. |
Well, I can think of several concepts that should fit your bill.
The First-Aid Kit: With his repertoire of Healing spells and a wide array of various support magic, the Cleric can be a vital addition to any adventuring party.
The Diplomat / the Fast-Talker: Not all encounters can be settled by the edge of a sword. Sometimes, a cunning talker or a brilliant diplomat is needed to weave the intricate web of words that would ultimately free the party from further conflict. The Wizard, the Sorcerer, the Rogue, the Bard, and the Paladin can play this role.
The Artful, Skillful Dodger: The guy with the skills and tricks holds most of the aces in his hands; without him, the party will be walking in the dark. Look to the Bard, the Rogue, the Ranger, or the Wizard for this role.
The Classic Blaster: An all-time favorite. She who holds the firepower reserves the ability to turn the tide of any battle. The Wizard, the Sorcerer, and to a certain extent, the Cleric can play this role.
_________________
A little surprising, really...
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Xtian
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Goderator
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| Joined: 30 Nov 2006 |
| Posts: 3260 |
| Location: Avernus |
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Posted: Mon Apr 23, 2007 1:12 am Post subject: |
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Well, the standard party consists of a fighter, blaster, healer, and a rogue. You know, like this:
Others are just combinations of them. |
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Pitz-Ikko
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D' Original Henio
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| Joined: 16 Jan 2007 |
| Posts: 719 |
| Location: Abu Dhabi |
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Posted: Mon Apr 23, 2007 2:12 pm Post subject: |
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Well, the fighter loses his effectiveness in the later levels, so he won't be carrying his weight then. That's totally out of the question.
The others are always effective, from low to high levels.
_________________
A little surprising, really...
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Xtian
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Goderator
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| Joined: 30 Nov 2006 |
| Posts: 3260 |
| Location: Avernus |
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Posted: Mon Apr 23, 2007 2:24 pm Post subject: |
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| Pitz-Ikko wrote: | Well, the fighter loses his effectiveness in the later levels, so he won't be carrying his weight then. That's totally out of the question.
The others are always effective, from low to high levels. |
No. Not the fighter class. But fighter as a role. Frenzied Berserker uses the fighter role and is still good at high levels. |
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boy_bakal
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Lord of Pwnage
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| Joined: 30 Nov 2006 |
| Posts: 1920 |
| Location: Zero |
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Posted: Mon Apr 23, 2007 9:46 pm Post subject: |
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hehe. just get a role like fighter guy, healer guy, or divine guy.
_________________
And I'm still, still longing. Still cold... so cold. |
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