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Topic: Guild Wars 2 Beta...Impressions?
Subject: Guild Wars 2 Beta...Impressions?
Well it looks like I'm back, to talk of one of my two most notable hobbies, and one of the cultures I consider myself a part of.
No, not tabletop Roleplaying right now, but rather, video games including roleplaying genres. Specifically the to-be-released-this-year (hopefully) online game Guild Wars 2, a game with a great development team behind it having been in the works for year as a partially experimental product, at least for the genre it is a part of.
For those lucky enough to have gotten into the early beta events of the game, or pre-bought the game and by doing so got into the most recent beta event over the past weekend, I am curious to your thoughts on the game. What have they done right? What have they done wrong? What do you hope will be changed by the actual release? What race or profession will you play first in the actual release?
Posted on 2012-04-30 at 19:54:30.
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Topic: Ya know what we need?
Subject: Aha!
Every inn needs a bard! Or a fool of some description, or a joker, a jester...
Errm...
Bard it is! I know three songs: Hymn, Jig and Waltz!
Which shall it be? By the way, am I getting paid for this? In wine, you say? Count me in!
(In other news, a notify-by-text system sounds somewhat complicated/expensive to integrate...)
Posted on 2012-04-18 at 07:46:52.
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Topic: Tumbleweeds, again...
Subject: On a rather pointless note...
I just reached 400 posts on my previous comment. Dang, I was hoping it would be a bit more remarkable than me talking about how rarely I've been on. ^^'
Posted on 2012-03-25 at 09:57:54.
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Topic: Tumbleweeds, again...
Subject: Well, I'm still alive (not completely kicking, but alive)
Ugh, I've been practically dead on this site, which I regret immensely. I just seem to have so little time for anything, despite so many ideas.
(Oh Fallout game, if only I had the time to continue thee...)
That said, I'm for the whole 'calm before the storm', things will pick up sooner or later.
Posted on 2012-03-25 at 09:56:36.
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Topic: Depths of Damnation QnA
Subject: My head hurts...
Ah, now it gets a little bit more confusing, as I have to post for Actarsis in the 'present' and 'past'.
Though, could I have some indication as to what has happened with Actarsis between the present tonight and '10PM last night'? I presume I'd learn soon, but I'd like to have a more sturdy idea if I'm also posting from Actarsis' perspective in the 'present', and as such would know where he spent the last 24 hours.
Presumably Actarsis hasn't gone on his heist yet (unless Actarsis immediately leaves Victory Boulevard to do so on the same night), so it would be of interest to him that Regarial wants Ylarien dead...heck, if he's already gone on the heist, it would still be of interest, but for different reasons.
But one way or another, I need confirmation before posting, unless you want to take over playing Actarsis in 'present' time while I only deal with 'past'.
Posted on 2012-03-15 at 20:54:35.
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Topic: Depths of Damnation QnA
Subject: Sorry
Sorry, by the way, that I haven't posted yet. Give me another day or two, things are hectic for me right now, and I have too many things to do.
Posted on 2012-03-05 at 08:32:15.
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Topic: A Storyteller's Welcome
Subject: A Reader's Welcome
Hello and welcome, and allow me to be the first to welcome you to the Red Dragon Inn. There are quite the number of Magic The Gathering players here, as well as writers and storytellers both, and it is always a pleasure to have another one amongst us.
So take a seat by the fire, test our excellent variety of drinks and meals, and share your tales with the Inn!
Oh, and take this towel. It's kind of a long story, but I suspect you will need it sooner or later.
Posted on 2012-02-26 at 19:51:57.
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Topic: Fire Emblem - The Sacred Stones
Subject: Fire Emblem - The Sacred Stones
Recently, due to the Nintendo 'ambassador' program, I was able to download (onto my Nintendo 3DS) a variety of pre-2005 Nintendo games, including classic arcades and a small number of Game Boy Advance titles.
One of which was 'Fire Emblem: The Sacred Stones', which research has told me was the second Fire Emblem game to be released outside of Japan, but doesn't follow into the continuity of the other games.
The Sacred Stones was my first (and so far only) experience with the series, but I have to say I was impressed with the game - not so much for its strategy or gameplay, but rather for its writing, story and characters.
With the support conversations, you can see how well written (in most cases) the dialogue is, and how well they flesh out otherwise bland fighters into full-fledged characters with their own motivations, personalities and interests. From the telling and character evolving converstaions between Ross and his father Garcia, to seeing hidden talents of the characters through Franz' dialogue with Natasha. The promises made between Ewan with his teacher Saleh, or the geniune comradeship between Gilliam and Moulder. The harsh previous life of Tethys, and the protectiveness Colm feels towards Neimi...
So...has anyone else played the game, or any others in the series that they can recommend, or any thoughts on the series, or even any favourite characters?
Posted on 2012-02-26 at 18:38:04.
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Topic: Flux Wars; Depths of Damnation
Subject: Always planning an escape route, whether people know it or not...
Actarsis took several steps back from the newcomer. He must be getting lazy, for her to be close enough to overhear without him noticing anything or anyone. When sparks began to fly from her fingertips, he backed up further, using the mental notes he'd taken of his surroundings to plan an escape route, or at least prepare to turn and run like hell without tripping over anything he'd forgotten.
He'd only ever worked with a mage once, and the rest he'd known were ones throwing fire at him or searching for him. They rarely caught him regardless, but he didn't like a mage being so close. At least she was an elf, but that didn't make him safe, necessarily.
If she turns out to be a threat, hopefully the knife-flinging Verkoth is faster than she is a caster.
"Ylarien house?" Actarsis cried, quickly covering his shock with an expression of anger, specifically spitting on the ground next to him, taking the oppurtunity as his head is turned slightly to catch a subtle glimpse of the area behind him to prepare to run if needed. The spitting was an odd habit he'd picked up by Celians, though the gesture was slightly harder as a Myanmade from the jaw shape, "That hardly sounds like the 'Expedition' you were offering before, and what's with the mage?"
Actarsis looked between the two, tensing and readying to move. This was getting very strange, very quick, and he didn't like being crept up upon successfully, more or less.
Posted on 2012-02-22 at 11:18:12.
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Topic: Flux Wars; Depths of Damnation
Subject: One last thing...
Actarsis hid his surprise, but not his grin.
"Expedition...ah, the irony of this situation kills me. Or at least, kills me in a less fatal way than my alternative situation." Actarsis chuckled, raising an eyebrow at the much shorter human, "Looks like we were looking for each other then. So long as your coin is good, your word trustworthy and your motivations up front, then I'm good to go."
Actarsis looked down at himself, wondering how far to push this man offering a bargain that was already too good. Well...he had to test the waters somehow, and now looked like a golden oppurtunity.
"Of course, while my skills never disappoint, one could hardly tell from my current state of clothes. While Celians rarely notice anyone in rags, they aren't the warmest of wrappings. May I expect some form of down payment by the time we leave this city? I find myself temporarily seperated from my savings, to say the least."
Posted on 2012-02-20 at 09:34:06.
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Topic: Depths of Damnation QnA
Subject: No complaints.
I don't mind in the slightest. I presumed my post was to continue on from the 'last night' angle since the scenario presented itself, but I'm pretty sure you can still post.
Posted on 2012-02-01 at 15:12:54.
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Topic: Flux Wars; Depths of Damnation
Subject: Taking into account every possibility...
Last Evening....
Actarsis had to stop himself from stepping back. While he had no doubt that the man in front of him may be carrying many more concealed weapons, it wouldn't be ideal for him to show any more weakness against someone looking - it sounded - to hire him.
Actarsis' mind worked quickly as he sized the man - Verkoth - in front of him up. If this man was looking to cash in on the bounty himself, then he would have been better to threaten Actarsis at dagger point. Trickery was unnecessary - it wasn't as if one needed to be subtle when threatening or attacking a Myanmade in Demarkon. And turning in Actarsis for the bounty would make this man enough to buy a slave, so he's not looking to enslave him.
And, he was visibly rich regardless. So he either truly is looking to...'employ' Actarsis (as had many before), or he held some unknowable grudge, as unlikely as that was. One way or another, chances seemed favourable that this man is not looking to turn him in, and indeed may offer a mutually beneficial arrangement. The perfect kind.
'But,' Actarsis thought, his eyes glancing to the slumped Celian near him, 'Killing that thug, as timely as this man's intervention was, has already added to my long-term problems.'
The Myanmade lifted his eyes back to Verkoth in front of him. Something about this man was...unusual. He would be sure to thank his Ancestors for surviving this day, at least.
"So. You know my name, and my problems and - supposedly - my feats. The only reason I can think of that you're coming to me specifically is because you cannot back up your offer with coin, and so you seek someone with a bounty upon their arrest so you can 'pay' me just with transport out of the city? I hope you understand such meager favours to me are hardly worth risking my neck on some kind of heist." Actarsis pointed out. As intimidating as the man who slaughtered a thug within a heartbeat can be, Actarsis needed to know what compensation this job would provide. Even if he got out of the city, he desperately needed to recoup the loss of his stash of gold and silver when his best hideout was found by some of the city guards, and a well-paying job may just do that.
"And," Actarsis continued, listening carefully to ensure he heard if footsteps approached from any direction as he spoke, "How do you know I haven't already made my own arrangements of getting myself out of this city? And how do you think you're going to get away with killing him, or are you just going to try to lay that on me?" Actarsis accused, nodding his head towards the fallen Celian.
In truth, Actarsis had at least hoped to lie his way into one of the expeditions he'd heard about, as long as he could convince them of a Myanmade's usefulness outside of being a slave, but he had realized the likelihood of such a plan not backfiring being slim.
Posted on 2012-02-01 at 13:31:46.
Edited on 2012-02-01 at 13:33:23 by Celtia
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Topic: Depths of Damnation QnA
Subject: Also, since this IS a Q&A thread, the perfect time to ask...
Also, in Arymeith's backstory it noted that "Saleya was abandoned to vedigris"...may I ask what is meant? It could mean the color-changing weathering effect on certain metals, implying that she was more or less left to rot and die, but... It doesn't occur on iron, to my knowledge (though since this is fantasy, that's not particularly a significant point), but I don't really understand why it would particularly impair movement or life (er, metal-based life, more or less).
Posted on 2012-02-01 at 12:56:52.
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Topic: Depths of Damnation QnA
Subject: There we go.
Hm, wasn't there before, but I guess it must have just been in the proces of uploading when I checked. My apologies for being impatient. ^^'
Posted on 2012-02-01 at 12:34:22.
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Topic: Depths of Damnation QnA
Subject: I'm ready, but...
Erm...are you sure the thread is up? And if so, under which part of the forum? I didn't see any recent Flux Wars or anything titled Depths of Damnation under Rules-Based D&D or the Freeform Fantasy sections, nor is it in the latest updated forum topics anywhere. Could you link it as a related thread to this?
Posted on 2012-02-01 at 09:40:12.
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Topic: Depths of Damnation QnA
Subject: Alright
As long as one post every day or two on my account is acceptable, I'm ready to start on Wednesday too.
Posted on 2012-01-31 at 14:05:30.
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Topic: Are you ready for 5e? Do you care?
Subject: Very good point.
Well...there was a little bit of d12 usage in 4e, if you were a fighter/warden/warlord/other and had no problem with two-handed weapons.
But anyway, in response to Eol, about tweaking character creation and/or working out a character unique to yourself.
Well if you want to make a character that does not apply to existing bases in more modern D&D (sadly the only ones I am familiar with, as far as Dungeons and Dragons go), such as 3e, 3.5e and 4e, you have to create (or have created for you by a DM) a fully playable class/prestige class/paragon path whatever. And that's something that I mentioned in my first post, about how easy or difficult some editions make it to fiddle with character creation or making unique classes.
I don't know about other editions, but I'm in the middle of making a 4e class for the reasons you said and it is hard work. And very time consuming. Within the space of at least 14 hours of brainstorming, editing, scratching out features and implementing new ones, as well as testing against other classes for cohesity and balance and creating names, descriptions and rules for dozens upon dozens of powers, I've still only created a class playable up to level 10. (To be fair, a lot of that time was also plans for a new and unique weapon that the class is proficient with)
I don't know about other editions, but 4e is a terrible basis to create a class in. Primarily because of the volume of skills and feats. The chances are high that such a task (to create a class) would be easy in another D&D edition that I'm not aware of the rules... But it is one of many ways to measure 5e...how easy can you create your own elements/classes/rules in this upcoming system?
That all said and done, I agree fully....that they don't need to overhaul the rules so often just to implement new ideas. I always respected Forgotten Realms and Eberron for the sort of optional game expansions as they have been in recent editions, where you can take classes or rules of easily enough, but you don't actually have to change your own setting to do so.
I certainly would be more excited if they made another extended-D&D like those, as opposed to a whole new rulebook.
Posted on 2012-01-12 at 15:14:38.
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Topic: Are you ready for 5e? Do you care?
Subject: A confession...
I, errm, actually quite like one element that has changed between edition to edition. And I'm hesitant to admit my liking, since I imagine many would see it as the equivalent of being overly consumeristic (something I like to call the "Pokemon Generational Effect").
I actually buy more books than perhaps I have to, purely because, well, I like new classes. New weaponry. New powers. New items. Sometimes it can be a bit strange, or go overboard (see 4e "Battlemind" class, an attempt to make a Psionic-based Fighter just for the sake of having a Psionic-based Fighter), but I love the idea of making an entire character around unusual or flat-out unique concepts, and playing through different adventures with characters who are completely different...not only in personality, but what tools they have at their disposal to overcome environment, enemies and other obstacles.
I remember the video game Neverwinter Nights and its sequel, both based on 3e and 3.5e D&D respectively. And one of the things that was so dear to me about the game was the sheer volume of classes to try. Bards, Monks, Favored Souls, Assassins, Eldricht Knights, Arcane Archers, Red Wizards, Dragon Disciples....
And, of course, part of the appeal of D&D is you can mess with the existing rules to make new creatures, monsters or even classes...but as I've found in my attempt to make a homebrew 4e class, the Pistoleer (an ongoing project), 4th edition is a TERRIBLE basis to do so, considering the sheer volume of powers to create.
But anyway, what I'm saying is I, for one, don't particularly care for new editions having nostalgic classes. Rogue, Ranger, Fighter, Cleric and Wizard and leaving it there. I'm geniunely excited when there's the Bard who supports his allies rather than fighting directly. When there's the Monk who uses lack of weaponry or armor to his advantage. When there's the Seeker who uses spiritual power infused into thrown weapons.
The Pokemon Generational Effect in action. I guess I'm just a sucker for new things, so I'll probably be getting 5e if it has even just one class that is more than a remake. (Hence why I have at least one game of every generation of Pokemon, sadly)
Posted on 2012-01-11 at 08:41:35.
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Topic: Homebrew D&D Class: The Pistoleer [4e]
Subject: Level 7 to 10
Well, I've almost done it. A playable Heroic-Tier Class. Still have feats and items to go, but here are the pistoleer's final powers before Paragon Tier.
Hah. I have to admit I like the "___ Slug" attacks, the most recent one being "Troll Slug" as you can see below. For every group of Encounter Attacks, there will always be one of these attacks which are nothing more than powers that do more damage to a single target than a basic attack. Nothing else remarkable or special. Each grow in power from the last, and their names change accordingly, from Deer Slug and Owlbear Slug, to Troll Slug and later even Dragon Slug. You'll see more unfold as more powers do, of course. Simple backup powers.
As for other notes on this batch of powers...well as far as the attacks go, the 'warshriek' is a nice power to have as it lends a temporary Leader element to the Pistoleer. Plenty of classes have similar abilities (such as a Ranger one that supports allies' skill checks). The Daily attacks have a host of unusual, if not downright unique, effects and elements. The shot that knocks enemies prone on a miss, or mere damage on a hit? A shorter-range attack (resembling the "Point Blank Shot" attack in a very vague sense) with a powerful kick behind it? And of course, an attack where you choose between two defenses to attack against, and get bonus effects regarding your choice.
Yes...I'm glad at how this is progressing. The Pistoleer is becoming it's own creation, as opposed to just an alternate Ranger. Of course, all attempts are still being made to prevent overpowered-ness.
The level 10 utilities are protective/survivalist in nature - rare for the pistoleer. But on the turn of Paragon Tier, they should get one last chance to choose how they survive a difficult battle, if they do at all. One of the powers, 'Play Dead', creates its own rules as such, but the unusual situation it creates is not unheard of in the official books. By which I mean that an enemy having to treat you as if you are dead is little different to the Rogue utility that forces you to occupy the same space as a larger creature, or the Slaads that believe you to be hallucinations (though that is in an extended rulebook). I am confident about placing such an unusual ability into my class without breaking the game or rendering the class suddenly 'visibly homemade', but I'm not as confident as to it being a level 10 utility as opposed to an earlier level.
Does anyone else think I should exchange "Play Dead" with a low-level utility, and buff the low-level utility so its worthy of being level 10? All feedback is, of course, wholly welcome.
LEVEL 7 ENCOUNTER EXPLOITS
Troll Slug .Level 7 Pistoleer Attack
You let loose a shot able to fell many a feared monster.
Encounter �� Martial, Weapon
Minor Action ... Blackpowder Weapon
Target: One creature
Attack: Dexterity vs. AC
Hit: 3[W] + Dexterity Modifier Damage
Executioner's Shot .Level 7 Pistoleer Attack
As your enemy charges towards you, you calmly prepare to put him down right when you know you won’t miss.
Encounter �� Martial, Weapon
Minor Action ... Blackpowder Weapon
Target: One creature
Attack: Dexterity vs. AC
Gunslinger: If the target is within a range of 2 squares, gain a +4 power bonus to the attack roll.
Hit: 1[W] + Dexterity Modifier Damage, and the target grants combat advantage until the end of your next turn.
Gunner's Secret .Level 7 Pistoleer Attack
Just as the echoes of your first shot dissipate, your enemies are shocked as your gun sounds once again a second later.
Encounter �� Martial, Weapon
Minor Action ... Blackpowder Weapon
Special: You may make this attack without a loaded weapon. However, it must still be clear of blackpowder residue.
Enthusiast: This attack leaves no blackpowder residue upon a hit.
Target: One creature
Attack: Dexterity vs. AC
Hit: 1[W] + 1d4 Damage
Warshriek .Level 7 Pistoleer Attack
The bellow of your weapon signals a change in the tides of battle, driving your allies forward.
Encounter �� Martial, Weapon
Minor Action ... Blackpowder Weapon
Target: One creature
Attack: Dexterity vs. AC
Hit: 1[W] + Dexterity Modifier Damage, and target is pushed 1 square.
Effect: You may slide a number of allies equal or less to your Wisdom modifier up to 2 squares.
LEVEL 9 DAILY EXPLOITS
Explosive Load .Level 9 Pistoleer Attack
You load in a test shot you prepared earlier. Filled with blackpowder and scrapings of flint...if the shot hits its target the only surefire way to be safe is to hit the ground before the explosion.
Daily �� Martial, Weapon, Fire
Minor Action ... Area burst 1 within weapon range
Special: You must be wielding a pistol, with an empty off-hand
Target: All creatures in burst
Attack: Dexterity vs. Reflex
Hit: 2[W] + Constitution Modifier Fire damage
Miss: Target is knocked prone, if it is of your size or smaller
Roulette Shot .Level 9 Pistoleer Attack
Some enemies make the mistake of thinking they know the limited threats a gun can hold. Of course, you know much better, and you utilize the unpredictability of the pistol to your advantage.
Daily �� Martial, Weapon
Minor Action ... Blackpowder Weapon
Target: One Creature
Attack: Dexterity+2 vs. AC or Dexterity vs. Reflex
Hit: 2[W] + Wisdom Modifier damage
Miss: 1[W] + Wisdom Modifier damage
Effect: If this attack was against AC, target takes a -1 to all attack rolls until the end of your next turn. If this attack was against Reflex, target takes a -1 to all defense rolls until the end of your next turn.
Scattershot .Level 9 Pistoleer Attack
Loading a number of smaller ammunition at once, you prepare to fire a deadly salvo of closely grouped shots at short range.
Daily �� Martial, Weapon
Minor Action ... Blackpowder Weapon
Special: The range of your weapon, for the purpose of this power, is reduced by 5 squares
Target: One or two creatures adjacent to each other
Attack: Dexterity vs. AC
Hit: 1[W] + 4d4 + Dexterity Modifier damage, and the target is weakened (save ends)
Miss: Half Damage
LEVEL 10 UTILITY EXPLOITS
Triumphant Dodge .Level 10 Pistoleer Utility
Just when all seems hopeless, and your enemy has engaged you in close combat which you are not used to, he makes an error in his strikes and you dodge with surprising ease. The sudden realization as to your enemies faults fill you with a newfound sense of hope, and you prepare to fight back.
Daily �� Martial, Healing
Immediate Reaction ... Personal
Trigger: An enemy misses you with a melee attack
Effect: Spend a healing surge, and gain a +2 power bonus to your next attack against the triggering enemy.
Flee to higher ground .Level 10 Pistoleer Utility
You abandon any pretence of protecting yourself directly against the far-too-close enemies, instead putting all of your effort into moving into a more advantageous position to fire from.
Encounter �� Martial
Move Action ... Personal
Prerequisite: You must be able to see one enemy within 5 squares of you.
Effect: Move up to your speed +2 and increase the range of your next weapon attack by 4 squares.
Play Dead .Level 10 Pistoleer Utility
As your enemies’ blade throws you to the ground, you decide it wouldn’t be such a bad trick to stay there, as long as you’re fortunate to still be alive.
Daily �� Martial
Immediate Reaction ... Personal
Trigger: You take damage by an attack and are bloodied before or after taking damage
Prerequisite: You must be trained in Bluff
Effect: You fall prone and make a Bluff check opposed by the attacking creature’s Insight check. If the Bluff check succeeds, all enemies treat you as dead unless their passive insight pierces your cover. At the beginning of every turn, make a Bluff check as a free action with a +5 power bonus to maintain your cover opposed by the passive insight of any enemies that can see you. Taking any other actions will break the cover.
Posted on 2012-01-10 at 15:58:45.
Edited on 2012-01-10 at 15:59:53 by Celtia
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Topic: Are you ready for 5e? Do you care?
Subject: 5th Edit-....wait, what?
I frequently find myself in an unusual and somewhat lonely corner of this inn, in that I am one of the relative few who primarily play 4th Edition D&D.
I admit I had not heard of this most recent development, but I think I can spin up some thoughts about it.
I do know the rules of 3.5e, and I think that a lot of people don't give enough credit to what was good about 4e. Defenses levelled with the characters better (making glass cannon builds somewhat rarer) and it adapted the 'skill' system to remove largely useless or rarely used skills.
Of course, the other side of the coin is that the 4th edition was slow, rather less imaginitive, vastly simplified and perhaps even - the greatest crime of all - 'dumbed down'.
What I'm really saying there is that new is not necessarily bad (though, granted, there's no real way to justify constantly buying new rulebooks).
But one measure of the effectiveness of the editions is how much ease or difficulty a DM will encounter if they try to...overcome an edition's downsides. Whether it be through unusual tests of skill or puzzles where rarely-used skills could be essential, to actively modifying combat or even character building rules.
But I'm beginning to ramble and still haven't really said anything, so I'd better get to the point...
As a 'new school' player, I'd be disappointed if 5e turns out to be 4e with a few new fancy rules and a different way to make a character with a few less dice rolls in combat. What I'd hope to see, however, would be more along the lines of allowing for a greater variety of tasks/rules/twists to be utilized in a system. For example, large-scale combat (an idea 4e tried-and-failed somewhat with the 'minion' enemies), epic final battles, genuinely dangerous traps (another thing 4e failed to do), a variety of equally useful skills for puzzles or diplomacy...
I think a combat-system overhaul is what I'm most looking forward to, really. Having started with 4e, I've never experienced anything that really has made me mistrust new content from The Coast, but it looks like 5e may (or may not) change that.
Really...as long as they don't dumb anything down further and it's not just a copy of a previous edition, it should be fine. People somewhere will want to play it, and I consider that broadening the audience of D&D.
Posted on 2012-01-10 at 15:00:29.
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Topic: Homebrew D&D Class: The Pistoleer [4e]
Subject: Thanks for the feedback!
Actually, not really a steampunk feel at all. Like I mentioned before, it might take a bit too long to describe the setting entirely within this forum topic (the setting has been built and adapted and evolved over a very, very long time) but...
To be brief, black powder was an alchemical concoction...it was an unusual mixture of the most basic and common of materials without any magical aid needed in its creation. Once enough uses for it was found, its popularity increased and spread across the lands. The use of it in handheld weaponry, such as the Flintlock Pistol, is an unusual and experimental idea to say the least.
While the 'advent' of Black Powder has changed a centerpoint of the setting (a great city, the largest in the Natural/Common Realm), where political shifts mean that a level of unhealthy control and manipulation is working its way through the populace, the creation of these pistols (though strictly outlawed) have allowed the criminal undergound a feasible weapon against the less-than-kind, armored Paladins that are the city guardsmen. Easier to conceal than a crossbow and much more deadly, despite the...flaws in using a weapon on a battlefield (long reload time amongst them).
Long story short, the arrival of black powder, despite offering new weapons, does not immediately transform the setting. Political and military shifts, yes, but the world, as a whole, still uses and relies upon the technology they always have to get by. Mills, mine shafts, brute strength.... there's no steam power, trains, reliance upon metals or 'visualized' technology from an older era here, and they are some of the features of steampunk.
Posted on 2011-12-20 at 01:47:04.
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Topic: Homebrew D&D Class: The Pistoleer [4e]
Subject: Level 6 powers.
The time I've been granted to work on these is steadily decreasing, and soon enough I'll be absent from the Internet for a few weeks over Christmas and New Years. As such, for now I only have three more powers to update the class with so far.
Anyway, with these batch of utility powers, the Pistoleer is further cemeted as a class with a rather heavier focus on direct combat than the Ranger. At this level, a Ranger may choose from powers to enhance their movement, prevent allies from being Surprised (essentially negating enemy Surprise Rounds) or even improve an ally's Skill Check. The Pistoleer, on the other hand, can choose between a Stance that can be useful if you're consistently hitting a single target (or with a fire-using ally), a power to use against concealed foes which is limited in its usefulness depending on what terrains or enemies your DM tends to throw at you, and a basic reroll ability in case neither of the other powers take your fancy, essentially acting as the Racial Power "Elven Accuracy".
While I'm not too happy about the reroll power (largely because, like I mentioned, it's almost a carbon copy of a Racial Ability), it seems to be balanced in a gameplay sense and allows for another Utility designed to offset the low chances of hitting, while not rendering the earlier power "Sight Target" obsolete or merely a 'weaker variant'.
Anyway, hopefully the next batch of powers will include the levels 7, 9 and 10, which will complete all of the Pistoleer Class for Heroic Tier. Once that is done, I can work on Pistoleer and Blackpowder Feats (including a Multiclass Pistoleer feat), a handful of relevant Magic Items...
Then I'll have a fully playable class up to Level 10. I'll save the celebrations until that day, then.
LEVEL 6 UTILITY EXPLOITS
Black Spray .Level 6 Pistoleer Utility
By utilizing alternative ammunition, your shots leave the barrel of your weapon clad in a fine layer of undetonated black powder. Upon a hit, the substance sticks to the target, leaving a highly-flammable mark upon the unfortunate foe.
Daily �� Martial, Stance
Minor Action ... Personal
Effect: Any enemy hit by a Weapon attack gains Vulnerable 2 Fire until the end of your next turn.
Spotter .Level 6 Pistoleer Utility
You take a quick note of what is not immediately clear, and share your observations with your allies.
Daily �� Martial
Minor Action ... Range sight
Target: Up to three enemies you can see that are Lightly Obscured or benefiting from Concealment.
Effect: As long as you can see a target, that target cannot benefit from concealment to you or any ally.
Trigger Discipline .Level 6 Pistoleer Utility
Where a lesser gunman would be frustrated by the cycle of reloading, you simply let the time and effort of every reload embolden you to make every shot count.
Daily �� Martial
Free Action ... Personal
Effect: Reroll a Weapon attack roll. Use the outcome of the second roll, even if it’s lower.
Posted on 2011-12-19 at 15:49:59.
Edited on 2011-12-19 at 15:50:25 by Celtia
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Topic: worst DM/GM blunders
Subject: A blunder of my own of sorts... (4e D&D)
Be a bit more wary in what twists, events, chases and traps you put in front of a particularly devious player playing a particularly devious class. In retrospect, I shouldn't have allowed him to 'try out' the "Swordmage" Forgotten Realms class. And be a Githyanki.
He could pretty much just teleported enemies and allies alike through any obstacle, and used "Telekinetic Leap" at every oppurtunity to bypass obstacles and such. It took me a while before I could actually throw reasonable, yet realistic, challenges at what I have found to be a vastly overpowered class (in terms of out-of-combat usability).
Yeah. You win this round, clockwork demise. But your cunning will not save you from what is to come!
Posted on 2011-12-19 at 15:27:59.
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Topic: twelve days
Subject: Time to inject a spot of...4th Edition (Dun Dun Dun)
12 Overland-Flight Speed of a Scion of Arkhosia
11 Good or Unaligned Gods
10 Levels until Paragon Tier
9 Bard-only Rituals
8 Playable Races in the first Players Handbook
7 Cyclops in the first Monster Manual
6 Attribute Scores
5 Major Realms
4 Psionic Classes
3 Actions in a turn
2 Dungeon Master's Guides
And a 4e adventure for all.
(Whew, it was difficult finding features that filled in a few of those numbers)
Posted on 2011-12-19 at 15:20:29.
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Topic: Homebrew D&D Class: The Pistoleer [4e]
Subject: Level 3 to 5 powers.
Well, after more updating, comparing and testing (and a LOT of brainstorming for names of abilities....I don't know how Wizards of the Coast manage to find names for so many weapons, abilities, feats and monsters, sometimes)... I'm ready to release the next batch of powers for the Pistoleer. This makes the class playable (absent of unique feats or magic items, for now) up to Level 5, which I consider a milestone. Half-way to Paragon Tier so far!
Anyway, as the Pistoleer grows to higher levels, it shares a trait with a few other classes that it starts to gather powers to do specific types/keywords of damage. In the Pistoleer's case, this is almost always Fire, usually by somehow setting off black powder. On the rare occasion this will also include the Force keyword.
Later, you'll see powers come up that can enforce Vulnerability to Fire upon enemies. Suitable...since if you're covered in black powder, you probably should stay away from fire. Indeed, one of the Pistoleer Paragon Paths - the Blackpowder Fiend - is planned to be largely centered around utilizing the volatility of black powder in many manners outside merely firing a weapon.
LEVEL 3 ENCOUNTER EXPLOITS
Owlbear Slug .Level 3 Pistoleer Attack
You let loose a shot able to fell lesser monsters in an instant.
Encounter �� Martial, Weapon
Minor Action ... Blackpowder Weapon
Target: One creature
Attack: Dexterity vs. AC
Hit: 2[W] + Dexterity Modifier + 1d6 Damage
Hammershot .Level 3 Pistoleer Attack
The ringing left by your shot as it strikes is as the ringing of a hammer against metal, deafening and distracting your target.
Encounter �� Martial, Weapon
Minor Action ... Blackpowder Weapon
Target: One creature
Attack: Dexterity vs. AC
Hit: 1[W] + Dexterity Modifier damage and the target is deafened (save ends). Your target takes a -2 penalty to all opportunity attack rolls until the end of your next turn.
Enthusiast: The -2 penalty applies to all of the target’s attack rolls until the end of your next turn.
Knightbane Shot .Level 3 Pistoleer Attack
Your foe will regret their bodily limits as your bullets leave dents and bruises across their armour or body.
Encounter �� Martial, Weapon
Minor Action ... Blackpowder Weapon
Target: One creature
Attack: Dexterity vs. Fortitude
Hit: 1[W] + Dexterity Modifier Damage, and target takes a -2 penalty to Fortitude and Reflex defences until the end of your next turn.
Swordsman's Folly .Level 3 Pistoleer Attack
The enemy rushing at you will realize his mistake after your shot hurtles him back to square one.
Encounter �� Martial, Weapon
Minor Action ... Blackpowder Weapon
Target: One creature
Attack: Dexterity vs. AC
Hit: 2[W] damage and you push the target 2 squares.
Gunslinger: The number of squares your target is pushed equals 1 + your Constitution modifier
LEVEL 5 DAILY EXPLOITS
Blackpowder Shockwave .Level 5 Pistoleer Attack
As you fire your shot, the kickback from your weapon is magnified into a wave of force that staggers those around you as you stand strong.
Daily �� Martial, Force, Weapon
Standard Action ... Blackpowder Weapon
Special: You must be wielding a pistol, with an empty off-hand
Primary Target: One creature
Attack: Dexterity vs. AC
Hit: 2[W] Damage
Miss: Half Damage
Effect: After attacking the primary target, make a secondary attack that is a Close Burst 1.
Secondary Target: Each enemy in burst.
Secondary Attack: Dexterity vs. Fortitude
Hit: 1d6 + Constitution modifier force damage, and target is pushed one square.
Forgeshot .Level 5 Pistoleer Attack
Your iron shot burns with the heat of the forge that created it as it is propelled through the air. As it hits the enemy, traces of black powder suddenly ignite as the bullet slows to a stop, leaving flame clinging to the target.
Daily �� Martial, Fire, Weapon
Minor Action ... Blackpowder Weapon
Target: One Creature
Attack: Dexterity vs. AC
Hit: 2[W] + Dexterity Modifier Fire Damage, and ongoing 5 fire damage (save ends).
Miss: Half damage, and ongoing 5 fire damage until the end of your next turn.
Golemfist Attack .Level 5 Pistoleer Attack
Your shot expands in size as it leaves the barrel of your weapon, flying straight and true to deliver a great amount of force to its target.
Daily �� Martial, Weapon
Minor Action ... Blackpowder Weapon
Target: One Creature
Attack: Dexterity vs. AC
Hit: 1[W] + Wisdom modifier damage, and target is dazed (Save Ends)
Miss: 1[W] damage + Wisdom modifier damage
Posted on 2011-12-11 at 07:48:27.
Edited on 2012-01-10 at 15:15:41 by Celtia
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