OT: D&D 4e or: Wanna slaughter some minions?

[narf poit chez BOOM]

Over the last week, I've found D&D 4e to be fun - I'll even say more fun than 3e. I've been running a solo dungeon for myself and enjoying it - Memory says that my attempt at that with 3e failed miserably.

And I want to GM a game. I'm thinking OpenRPG, time TBD.

[Warning, fanboy http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/laugh.gif ]
I like the cool powers system that means that not only can the combat guys do more than a damage attack, the combat guys can run around the battlefield like a ferret on speed, if they want and be just as combat effective - Or even more effective, with the right powers. One attack? Not with the right powers. Doing just damage? Those powers are in the minority and only there when you need high damage more than, say, knocking some sucker backwards and then following him so you can hit him again.

The wizard does take an adjustment; your powers are now mostly geared towards battlefield control. The cool powers, like Maze, Mordenkainan's Mansion and Meteor Swarm are also still there - Along with some new ones like Elemental Maw. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

As for the new classes? Warlock: If the 30th-level 'Hurl through Hell', 'Doom of Delban' or 'Curse of the Dark Delerium' doesn't sounds thematic and cool...Hey, Dire Radiance, Hellish Rebuke, Diabolic Grasp, Curse of the Dark Dream, Dread Star...All first level. All cool.

Warlord? Perfect for leading the charge. Everyone around you gets bonuses if you so much as sneeze. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/laugh.gif

Cleric? You can heal, you can bash, you can buff, you can shoot, all your area attacks are harmless or even helpful to the party...And you still don't outshine anyone, because you have to cherry-pick your powers.

No Half-orcs, gnomes or your other favorite race? Show me a third-party race for 4e and I'll check it out. And hey, back of the Monster Manual? Gnomes, Bugbears, Doppelgangers, Drow, Githyanki, Githzerai, Gnolls, Goblins, Hobgoblins, Kobolds, Minotaurs, Orcs, Shadar-Kai, Shifters (Two types) and Warforged - Basic stats for using them as PCs. Who says 4e is short on playable races? http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/laugh.gif

Dragonborn? Lost and scattered heirs of an ancient empire, short on survivors but large in honor - And not munchkin at all.

Tieflings? Lost and scattered heirs of the other ancient enemy empire, struggling to survive and without so much as a village to call their own. And, best of all, they didn't nerf the artwork - They actually look part demonic.

Oh and lastly? Rituals - Utility spells that anyone can use - Wizards and Clerics are just better at them. Any character can have magical flavor without multi-classing.
[/fanboy]

Seriously? I think this version is seriously cool, even when I view it objectively. Sure, saving throws seem too simple. Sure, it's more money I've spent. I also miss the lack of cones.

But...I'm having more fun - And hey, house-ruling.

Yes, I am still learning as a GM. If you spot anything to help me improve, please tell me and I'll fix any problems. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

The adventure will start in the DMG town of Fallcrest. The tone will be adventure fantasy in the 4e 'Points of Light' world.

Further details if interest is shown. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

[Randallw]

Didn't we have a D&D thread for this. I mention it only because I did bring it up several weeks ago http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

I want to give it a try, we can use that Openrpg thing again if you don't want the online D&D thing, but i'd have to install it again, plus there's the whole time difference problem.

I'm interested but now I come to mention it unfortunately I might not have the time. I start an online refresher course next month and I don't know how that'll take up my time.

Edit: Fyron will probably pop up and point out that as far as he knows it's turned into a tabletop mmporpg. I can see where he's going, but I do think it's a quicker system. The most frustrating thing when we played before was the time it took for each battle. I've got no sense of nostalgia so anything new is interesting to me.

The argument for 3rd edition is the books aren't being destroyed. You can keep playing that. Well you could if you didn't hock your 3rd edition books. Like me http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif.

[narf poit chez BOOM]

...I completely forgot about that thread. I'd act suprised, but with my memory, I'm not. It's a good thing I can write things down and that my head is firmly attached. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/laugh.gif

If nothing else, with the books out, people can form an informed opinion. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

If you mean D&D Insider, the features other than the magazines have been delayed to vagueness in their delivery date. On the bright side, so has the fee.

Also, This (http://forum.rpg.net/showthread.php?t=399526) addresses most 4e concerns, from someone who bought all the negative hype. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

Combat has quicker rounds, but more of them. The rules are also streamlined, so overall combat is faster. And in my solo dungeon crawl I ran a combat with two PCs against eight minions and it went fast - About the time it takes to roll five-seven groups of d20s, starting with 10. But then, minions drop in one hit and you don't roll damage. On the other hand, most of the other combats took an hour and that's with me playing both sides and flipping through three books to make sure I've got everybody's abilities down - And including prep time beforehand. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

[Randallw]

When I first got the books I was shocked at what looked to me like the nerfing of wizards. I knew vancian spells were out but it worried me to see that mages only got something like a choice of 4 spells per encounter, not counting the 2 or 3 at will spells you have, and always the same 3 at will spells, but as I studied the new encounter system it occurred to me it's ok. Sure you have less spells at first glance, but you can reuse them every encounter. Just pray the DM isn't the sort to throw in new enemies every round, that way the "encounter" never ends. You need to have a break, even if only for a few minutes so you can reset when it starts again. The really powerful spell stuff, the stuff which I think seperates the wizards form other classes with just as many powers, are rituals. Sure a fighter might be as powerful in a fight, but he can't spend an hour summoning something big. I thought from a story viewpoint the fact that failing stuff like wilderness travel rolls takes away healing surges, so if you mess up and spend all day walking around the middle of nowhere you'll tire yourself out, is a good touch.

If you haven't already I suggest listening to the Penny arcade session. It does give a good idea of how it works, just be careful if you don't like harsh language.

http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=dnd/drfe/20080530
http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=dnd/drfe/20080606
http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=dnd/drfe/20080613

which reminds me, I've only gotten a third of the way through part 3

[narf poit chez BOOM]

The language is over the edge of what I would want to listen to. Other than that, the first session is informative and fun, though. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

He can - He can either buy a one-use scroll or spend a couple feats and money equal to the scroll cost for each ritual in a ritual book, then some time to master them. But the Wizard still gets mastered rituals and can record them in his spellbook automagically - And for free.

[Randallw]

I wouldn't use such vulgar language (from the Latin, Vulgus: common), preferring instead to express myself in a more eloquent fashion, but I don't let it get to me. I occasionally watch stuff like South Park, but I turn it off if it's like the one where they want to say the S-bomb 170 times.

Vulgarity just means you don't have the intelligence to say something meaningful.

That said I do occasionally utter something shocking. If it was the 50's.

oh, finally. I WILL tell you to stop if you blaspheme in my presence.

[narf poit chez BOOM]

That's pretty near my opinion - Except I tend to swear if I, say, stub my toe.

[narf poit chez BOOM]

Astorax and I had a successful OpenRPG server test to make sure that functionality works. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

Also, the latest OpenRPG (Nessasary if we do indeed use OpenRPG) is here: http://www.assembla.com/spaces/files/dIvWc45xer3lzlabIlDkbG - 'OpenRPG_Installer.exe'.

[narf poit chez BOOM]

It seems it may end up being an Evil party... http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/laugh.gif

House rules so far:
PCs have to be run past the other players as well as the GM; this is because the PCs have to be at least minimally capable of working together.
On a PC veto vote, tie goes to 'no'.

Chaotic Good and Lawful Evil are back in. This may affect some deity alignments...

Gods, primordials, nature of, war between - Don't make assumptions. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

As per recent Dragon article, demigod Maldeen is now in...

Divine characters with an alignment different than their deity must be able to make a convincing argument about why said deity would take them on. This will be much, much easier for a Good character who wants to be a cleric of Bahamut than a CE character who wants the same.

Fallen (Or risen) Divine characters loose their divine powers until they can find and convince a new patron.
Evil characters with divine powers that would do Radiant damage by the rulebook instead do Necrotic damage.

All characters can worship anyone they wish; just be aware that if you start making offerings to, say, Bahamut and Orcus, the best you can expect is to get ignored. They have opinions of you, too...

Elves get another +1 to their speed and +1 to Will defense to make them a viable choice. This does not apply to Eladrin; the bonuses are to make Elves comparable in utility to Eladrin (In my mind).
If this proves to be too much, I will reduce it, possibly back to base.

Since I know of no rules that cover minion criticals and criticals versus minions, minions that critical double their flat-rate damage. If you critical when attacking a minion, you get an extra basic attack, since the minion is dead no matter how little damage you do.

[Astorax]

Hey I'll help out with anything the party needs doing ..as long as it benefits me somehow.

Plus, come on ppl, Narf and I are the only ones up for this so far? We even got the openRPG server working and everything.

BTW, I'll be playing as an Eladrin Wizard, Lawful Evil.

[Randallw]

If you want to play now, or in the next few days, then I can't participate. I'm terribly sick actually.

[narf poit chez BOOM]

Well, first we have to get more than 1 player, you and some possibles on IRC. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

Seeing as this may end up an evil campaign, I suggest looting some players. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/laugh.gif

[Astorax]

Quite all right, Randallw, I'm still reading up on the new 4e rule set anyways. Plus, we need more than 2 ppl in the party, lol. I know most players like to play as offensive minded like fighters, wizards and rogues so I may roll up a cleric to center the party with and let everyone else fill out the offensive roles. Just depends on how many ppl we get to play with us.

[Randallw]

Seems I got a bit of a runaround with this online refrsher course I'm doing. I seemed to end up in a year long full time course rather than a short 6 week part time course. It's been fixed now so I won't be spending as much time as I thought. I may even be able to take part in the near future possibly.

If I do take part, if, I'm thinking of a halfling thief, or possibly a star pact warlock.

....or maybe a CE infernal pacted fighter http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif (been watching the Warhammer Online teaser)

[narf poit chez BOOM]

So, Evil party...What 'cover' do you guys want? Or are you going to operate openly?

[Randallw]

I'll make up a character just in case. How should I get stats? point buy? there's a few options in the book. I don't know if you'd allow honour system on rolling stats. Besides I'm not sure where my dice are, though I could get a few tomorrow.

I haven't read the campaign stuff in the book. I'll try to avoid doing so if it's going to ruin any surprises, though I couldn't help but notice a picture somewhere involving rats and a wolf with red eyes. Maybe even some bats. As if there's any problem figuring out what that could be.

[narf poit chez BOOM]

Either default array or point-buy.

Hmm, yes, that picture...Interesting...I wouldn't put to much stock in it, by the lack of text, it's clearly random. *Innocent GM look*

[narf poit chez BOOM]

Just to note, any new house-rules will appear in the house-rule post on the first page...Like shortly from now. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

[Nocturnal]

I R M 4 PL@Y!!111!!1!1!

I R N33D 2 R33D R00LBUK 4 2 B LERN!NG TEH G@M3 1st OMGWTFLOLBBQ!!!!111!!!

[Randallw]

Sorry, but no one here speaks leet.

[douglas]

Not quite true. I can read leet, I just don't usually think it's worth the bother because there's too much overlap between the kind of people who use leet and the kind of people I don't want to play with.

I am interested in playing, but I have a full time job now so it would have to be on the weekend.

[Astorax]

I don't like the idea of an all CE party. They wouldn't work together well and there would likely be a slaughter between all party members during or right after the adventure for all the loot. Evil can be worked with but CE is way over the top.

[narf poit chez BOOM]

The players do have a group veto vote on new characters.

[Randallw]

I dropped the whole Demon worshipping fighter thing. What I really wanted to try was a Halfling thief. Just evil will do. Not out to kill everyone but entirely willing to cut the victims throat in the night.

[narf poit chez BOOM]

So, do any of our possibles have questions or concerns? Think 4e will eat your dog? Wondering what happened to saving throws? Concerned about some internet rumor? Don't want an evil part?

No, it likes cats and hamsters. They are simpler, but they do the job. Many of them are from people who havn't even read the PHB. That's up to the players. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

[Randallw]

I have a question. Last night while filling out my character sheet I saw there were saving throws for dying. I read the rules for dying, but I couldn't see a mention of what the saving throws were.

Also how do we decide what money and equipment we start with?

[narf poit chez BOOM]

Saving throws are all 1d20 vs DC10 +/- miscellaneous modifiers for either.

100 gp - Buy your equipment. Some classes get additional default equipment, such as spellbooks for wizards. Also, the 'Making a character' chapter is your friend. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

Tell me if you need more help - I can pop onto IRC for detailed discussion.

[Astorax]

Every character starts with 100gp. You may automatically have some items such as a Wizard automatically having 1 Spellbook or a Cleric automatically having 1 Ritual Book. Everything else, look to page 210-ish in the PHB for equipment and their costs. I suggest atleast a Standard Adventurers Kit + a weapon and armor. If you are a ritual casting class, perhaps some Ritual Components as well. Also, Wizards will probably want an Implement as will a Cleric (Holy Symbol).

[Astorax]

Narf, come on IRC. I have random questions.

[Nocturnal]

Me IZ s0rry. Me M sometimes lapse-ing into l33+ when getting EXCZITED! HOIIIIIEEEeee...

What I meant to say was I'd be happy to help and play if you need another player.
I can be a chaotic neutral (edit: what? Why can't I be chaotic neutral anymore?) dwarf cleric, even though what little I've seen of clerics in 4th edition looks kind of stupid (why does rushing into battle to strike at enemies heal everyone?) Can't see how I'd make it work with an evil character. I could just be an evil thug, hitman, or mercenary of some sort. (I guess that means neutral evil human fighter?)

Unfortunately I have never actually played a tabletop RPG (though I'm a wizard at Tragic: The Garnering for what that's worth?) and I take it you actually have you pay Mr. Bling-Bling's Cash Money for the rulebooks in order to learn the new D&D? A problem with that is they cost over $60! Is there any way to learn at least a watered-down version, enough to be playable, without shelling out so much for a set of hardcovers that'll be obsolete in three-to-five years?

[Randallw]

The old edition had an SRD (I forget what that means) which was roughly the rules stripped down to basics, and no flashy pictures. 3/3.5 was open gaming, which meant any company was allowed to use it but adventures could only have the basic monsters.

4 might have its own SRD but I've read it's now only really aimed at other companies and only really now tells them what they can use. I don't know if it has basic rules for people.

Well I hunted down the SRD (seems it means system reference document) for 4th. As I thought it appears to be nothing more than a list of terms and names so developers spell stuff right http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/frown.gif

http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=d20/welcome

For what it's worth, this link might at least provide some information

http://www.enworld.org/index.php?page=4e

In other news, remember a few days back I said I didn't know where my dice were and I'd get a few more. Well they wanted $2 each. Gee, I told them before I paid $2 each I might just bother to look for my old ones first. It's ok they're friends of mine. Anyway it took me all of 2 minutes to find them.

[Nocturnal]

Thank you! That link looks like it should be enough to get me started... And the rest of you can just keep a close eye on me to correct me whenever I do anything stupid or illegal.

I still have some reading to do in order to determine precise stats but based on this, I think that I could do all right as a Dwarf Cleric, or as an Eldarin Wizard. Whatever the party needs more: if Astorax is the cleric, I will happily play an evil wizard. I think I'd get a kick out of some of the role-playing possibilities I could do.

[Astorax]

Nocturnal, I've sent you a private message. I'm not exactly sure where it will show up as I don't see a "message box" or whatever like other forums. Maybe its sent to your email? Not sure.

[Baron Munchausen]

Randallw said:
The old edition had an SRD (I forget what that means) which was roughly the rules stripped down to basics, and no flashy pictures. 3/3.5 was open gaming, which meant any company was allowed to use it but adventures could only have the basic monsters.

4 might have its own SRD but I've read it's now only really aimed at other companies and only really now tells them what they can use. I don't know if it has basic rules for people.

Well I hunted down the SRD (seems it means system reference document) for 4th. As I thought it appears to be nothing more than a list of terms and names so developers spell stuff right http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/frown.gif

http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=d20/welcome

For what it's worth, this link might at least provide some information

http://www.enworld.org/index.php?page=4e

In other news, remember a few days back I said I didn't know where my dice were and I'd get a few more. Well they wanted $2 each. Gee, I told them before I paid $2 each I might just bother to look for my old ones first. It's ok they're friends of mine. Anyway it took me all of 2 minutes to find them.



Holy collectors' items, Batman! I have a whole bag of D&D dice from the 1980s in all shapes and sizes. If new ones are $2 each I wonder what my 'vintage' dice are worth? http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

[Astorax]

btw Nocturnal, I have rolled up a halfling rogue, eladrin wizard, human cleric and am currently working out a warlock, too. I would prefer to play as my rogue or wizard but, if nobody else rolls a cleric for the party, I will play mine.

Choices in order:

1. Eladrin Wizard
2. Halfling Rogue
3. Human Cleric
4. there is no 4 at the moment but it will be a Warlock.
5. I don't play fighters http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/tongue.gif

[Astorax]

Hey, theres a question, DM, can we use more than one character in this adventure? Like, could I play as both my Wizard and Rogue or Cleric and Wizard/Rogue, more like?

edit- btw, Narf, JFries on #D&D channel in IRC wants to play in our game.

[douglas]

Well, if everyone who has expressed interest plays that's five people - me, Randallw, Nocturnal, you, and JFries. That's already a full size party.

Astorax said:
Nocturnal, I've sent you a private message. I'm not exactly sure where it will show up as I don't see a "message box" or whatever like other forums. Maybe its sent to your email? Not sure.


A flashing letter icon shows up next to the "Welcome <user_name>. [Logout]" line on the top left, IIRC. Clicking on it takes you to your message box where you can view the new message. You can also access your message box through the My Home link on the top right. It's the leftmost link on the second row in that big set of links.

[Nocturnal]

New question then: how's this going to work logistically? I'm downloading (or the OpenRPG setup is downloading) wxPython2.8 which is a pretty big file for my pretty slow connection. Please don't make me install IRC again too.

Since it is in real-time, when are we going to meet? I work Sunday to Thursday inclusive from about 0600-1800 GMT so I won't be available at those times, and I use much of the remainder of the weekdays for eating and sleeping. On weekends (Friday and Saturday) I am pretty much free at any time. I like to get sleep in blocks of 10-14 hours during the weekend to restore HP and spells, but I don't need to take them at particular hours.

So ideally I would like to play on Friday or Saturday, during the afternoon or evenings as compared to GMT.

We should sort this out to see who among us can actually play, and then submit the characters.

[douglas]

I would prefer Saturday. My time zone is Eastern US (GMT -5, I think), and any time that doesn't require me to get up too early is fine.

From my understanding of the rules and one actual play session so far, party balance among character roles is fairly important. Ideally we should have one defender, leader, striker, and controller. Any characters beyond the first four it doesn't matter quite so much.

[Astorax]

I've gotten another person interested in that IRC channel, Narf. sacarasc is his nick. People are starting to take interest, heck they even put me and 4e game in the topic. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/tongue.gif

[narf poit chez BOOM]

Douglas, Randallw, Nocturnal, Astorax, JFries and now Sacarasc...Six players. Yeah, I'm going to have to close new player acceptance. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

No, only one character - Keeping track of six PCs is about the limit of how many I want to keep track of.

I'm available most times, although I may have to juggle my sleep schedule for some of them. My new pills are making it wacky. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

I'm going on #D&D to answer any questions.

[narf poit chez BOOM]

Astorax has noted that a party without a fighter will probably get squashed.

/me would like to note that fighters are fun in 4e. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

[Astorax]

I have decided on playing a Halfling Rogue. He is the bomb. That is all.

[narf poit chez BOOM]

Littering the job board:

The first and last ones are open to newbie parties; the second would require a patent of nobility of some kind; the third requires that you be able to at least fake providing information.

This is in addition to Fallcrest plotlines.

Malvus Corvus, Caravan Master

Positions still open for:

Caravan guards.
Spell-slingers.
Healers.
Eight water-carriers.
Five teamsters.
Two cooks assistants.
One huntsman.
Three animal handlers.

Leaving in two weeks.

---------------------------

Squire Mainus Irving, assistant to a noble lady, is enquiring after noble and willing fellows concerned with clearing out the trash that stands in the way of a united and strong Nenter Vale. Riff-raff need not enquire.

Walton House,
(Location)

---------------------------

Vorcsh Torven, Paladin of Pelor

If any law-abiding citizen should happen to know of information as to the whereabouts of followers of bane,

5 gp per likely rumor.
10 gp per substantiated rumor.
25 gp for evidence,
25 gp if the evidence bears results.
50 gp for proven whereabouts.

In addition, those worthies who oppose the foul 'church' of bane are invited to assist.

Enquire within: Silver Unicorn Inn, Fallcrest.
(Yes, I am the Tiefling)

---------------------------

Overn Quick, Information Broker

Reasonable Rates, Quality Hiring,
All Welcome.

Quick Fix,
(Location)

[douglas]

Could someone post the full details on how to get on this particular IRC channel? I think I can handle getting and setting up an IRC client on my own, but where do I need to connect to?

[Astorax]

make the server: irc.freenode.net <--that will connect to a random freenode server.

After you get on freenode goto #D&D channel. If you are using mIRC just type: /join #D&D and hit enter.

[narf poit chez BOOM]

And some plotlines based on what's in the DMG:

Seralund Halfmoon, Halfmoon Trading House,

Would like to hire porters for the portage of cargoes.

Strength and combat experience a must.

---------------------------

Squire Serim Selduzar, Unfotunate third son,

is looking to establish himself,
(Having little else to do but follow tradition,
and join the clergy; but he finds he enjoys,
the high life more than the high-minded,
life) and is hoping to assist adventurers in,
clearing out monsters (Kobolds, goblins, yada,
and etc) and bandits, from various locations,
for an 'Agents Fee' to be negotiated.

Which is a rather long-winded way of saying that,
I, with my ear to the ground, am selling information,
on likely looting opportunites to the wandering,
Adventurer.

Enquire within,
Nenter Inn

---------------------------

Lord Warden Faren Markelhay (Seal)

Kobold Hall is becoming a problem.

Enquire with guard Captain Sir Torim (Seal)
if you wish an interview.

---------------------------

High Septarch of Fallcrest Nimozoran

Literary Adventurers interested in expanding knowledge
Are wanted for the exploration of the Catacombs
In return for assistance, the High Septarch will
provide rituals at a low price and pay for the books
returned.

Septarch's Tower

(Scribbled on top) High Septarch?
Guess my mule is Lord of Nenter Vale! Hah!

[narf poit chez BOOM]

Also, times - Everybody post availability times. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

Me: Monday to Saturday, PST, I can stay up late, tend to have problems with getting up early. Wednesday 2-4 PM I am unavailable.

[Randallw]

Astorax said:
I have decided on playing a Halfling Rogue. He is the bomb. That is all.



2 Halfling Rogues/Thieves ?

Well I suppose if you really do, I can go back to my fighter, or maybe a star pact warlock.

[narf poit chez BOOM]

We might need a vote on party alignment - My 'Evil party' comment simply happened because the two people that seemed interested at that point both wanted evil characters, which combined with my normal enthusiasm. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/laugh.gif

Anyway, Good, Evil or Unaligned?

Just to note, if nobody votes or the vote is inconclusive, the default is 'No less than unaligned and no CN'.

[Randallw]

Unaligned is ok I would think. We're not dogooders going out of our way to help others, we're just wanting to make some money, but we're also not intent on stabbing each other in the back. We'll work together, but it might be that if a Dragon attacks someone we're not being paid enough to get involved.

You know, I'm really becoming interested in a warlock (star pact), messing about with uncomprehendable intelligences from beyond the stars. I'll leave the halfling rogue to Astorax.

[narf poit chez BOOM]

If anyone wants to do a combat test, I'm on OpenRPG server Test, the second room (Not including the lobby).

[narf poit chez BOOM]

OpenRPG is very glitchy on miniatures and doesn't update the map when you upload a new file.

Maptools disconnected everybody after about a half-hour. (Although at least I can save/load)

Anyone know of a good free RPG/chat program?

[narf poit chez BOOM]

Successfull, if limited, combat test on Maptool. Two level 1 gobbo minions and one level 2 Wolf minion. Astoraxes' character killed two; the tired DM (Me) zombie-walked the last Gobbo into a chasm. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/laugh.gif

[Nocturnal]

I have read about OpenRPG being buggy on the maps and miniatures. If you have a better alternative, great, let's use that. Just say the word and we'll download all the RPtools (http://rptools.net/doku.php).

Do you think that with this much interest we could get everything together for a first session this Saturday, the day after tomorrow? Strike while the iron is hot, as my dwarf weaponsmith friend says.

Unaligned is flexible and fine by me (though I'd rather not see unaligned paladins...) I can fit a character to whatever you decide but I feel an Evil party would be more challenging for you as a DM: what kind of quests will we undertake, rescue the beautiful ogre from the wicked princess?

Astorax, pick a character and stick with it! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif I like to be in a supporting role so I'm the wizard or cleric. I've already thought up characterizations for both. There are eight classes so there should be plenty of choice for six characters, but there is nothing wrong with doubling up (two rogues or two fighters make perfect sense for a mercenary party.) I guess ideally we should have two frontline tanks and two supporters (one wizard, one warlord or cleric,) but in a pinch the cleric or warlord can double as a frontline trooper if he's built to handle melee. Because a paladin can also provide healing and the warlord can provide buffs, the party doesn't really have to include a cleric. That means we can have as many as three strikers as long as three characters total accept frontline melee builds. Let me know if I'm talking out my bumhole, but I'm saying we can all decide on characters pretty freely so we can get to playing soon.

[Astorax]

Astorax said:
I have decided on playing a Halfling Rogue. He is the bomb. That is all.



That seems pretty emphatic to me. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/tongue.gif

Heh.

Also, Nocturnal, JFries from the #D&D IRC channel is making a cleric to play so if you want to make a wizard that would be great.

Astorax - Rogue
JFries - Cleric
Randalw - Warlock
Nocturnal - Wizard?

I'm not sure what Douglas will be playing or sarcasac.

As for a time, I'm free all the time, really.

[narf poit chez BOOM]

That's more of a role-reversal than an evil quest. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif If you want to know what sort of evil quests you'd get...How about a quest from the church of Bane to 'Warn' a remote village that isn't paying their 'taxes' on time?...

A vote for unaligned, one vote for evil with a secondary vote for unaligned.

So 1 1/3 for unaligned, 2/3 for evil. (Hey, don't look at me, you're the one who split your vote. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif )

If everyone can submit a character by the time I wake up Saturday, we can game then. I'll probably wake up past twelve noon PST due to new anti-depressant wonkiness.

Please note that your GM will be groggy and zombified for a bit. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/laugh.gif

Submitted characters: Astorax.

[Randallw]

I don't wake up till maybe 1 when I take my anti-depresents, or is it my tranquilisers. Both I guess. It's worse if it's been a while since I bothered. Actually I sort of wish I had yesterday as it happens.

Problem is that 12 midday for you in Canada/US is, let me see, um, 11pm was 9am in NY, ah 2 in the morning. oops.

[Nocturnal]

A brief scrying session reveals a dazzling wealth of options (http://www.battlegroundsgames.com/links.html). Look through them and find the one that tickles your fancy - you may need to scroll about halfway down to get to the virtual tabletop programs.

This one has a free version, and the keyword "monkey." (http://www.nbos.com/products/screenmonkey/screenmonkey.htm) That indicates instant win.

This is a web-based program (http://www.rpgtonight.com/) with no download required. Just register and you're good to go!

[narf poit chez BOOM]

@Nocturnal: Tired, forgot to say we used Maptools (And tokentool and I used inittool) and they worked good. We had one crash, but I think that was due to me logging on with a second program to test the server and then not doing anything on that program. But thanks. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

[Nocturnal]

Astorax said:

Astorax said:
I have decided on playing a Halfling Rogue. He is the bomb. That is all.



That seems pretty emphatic to me. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/tongue.gif

Heh.

Also, Nocturnal, JFries from the #D&D IRC channel is making a cleric to play so if you want to make a wizard that would be great.

Astorax - Rogue
JFries - Cleric
Randalw - Warlock
Nocturnal - Wizard?

I'm not sure what Douglas will be playing or sarcasac.

As for a time, I'm free all the time, really.


Perfect! I'm an Eladrin Wizard then. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/cool.gif And I am going to roleplay one insufferably cocky bastard. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif We're using the point-buy system for stats, is it 32 points to spend? How much gp does a stuffed cloth cushion cost? I like to fight my battles seated and with an air of mocking disinterest. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/laugh.gif

You gotta rope Douglas and sarcasac into playing fighters, or it'll be funny to watch all these helpless magic-users getting massacred.

Narf: noon for you is still the middle of the night on this side of the puddle. Since it's Saturday (or Friday night here) I can do it, no problem. I rather not be up and about during daylight anyway.
Synchronize watches here (http://wwp.greenwichmeantime.com/).

[Astorax]

Hmm, looking at my list again, we have a rogue, cleric, warlock and probably a wizard ..2 more players and I hope one is a fighter type. Make that both of them, lol.

[Astorax]

Nocturnal, we're using either the point buy system (which btw is 32 pts I believe) or the 16, 14, 13, 12, 11, 10 system. By that I mean you use those numbers in any which ability you want. Thats how I made my rogue, wizard, and cleric.

[narf poit chez BOOM]

4e Point-buy has 22 points. It's roughly equal to 31 point-buy in 3e.

1 sp if you just want an ordinary cushion.

[Nocturnal]

Thanks! Silly me, I was thinking of adventurer prices (http://www.giantitp.com/comics/oots0122.html).

[narf poit chez BOOM]

Well, if you want the silk cushion with the fancy designs, that'll cost 5gp. If you want really fancy cushion that levitates in place, that'll be 1,000 gp - Or 2,600 gp if you want a self-stabilizing model.

If you want a flying cushion, that'll be 325,000 gp - Why so much, you ask? Because we couldn't let our customers go on an unsafe cushion! Why, this model is actually safer than a basic Flying Carpet! You can't fall off unless you try!

If you want an unsafe model, although I have no idea why, that would 65,000 gp. Sure, sounds like a deal. Until you realize that you've got a fair good chance of falling off if you sneeze! You don't want to do that at 50 feet, do you??

Allpricesdonotincludemarkup. Markupcanbe10-40%. Satisfactionnotguaranteed. Safetynotguaranteed. In-fightpeanutsnotprovided. Shadeyco.isirresponsibleforanything. Donotfunkand*hic*dry. Tulipsispretty.

[douglas]

4e point buy is on pages 17 and 18 of the PHB. They give both how to generate your own stat array and a list of quite a few premade stat arrays. Just look down the list on page 18 for a set of numbers you like. Note: If you insist on having an 18, the rest of your stats will be mediocre.

Let's see, that's two strikers, a leader, and a controller. Guess I better make a defender.

Oh, and Nocturnal, it would be a good idea for you to take Scorching Blast. I don't think any other class gets an at will area attack, and that can be rather important if we ever fight a huge mass of minions.

[narf poit chez BOOM]

Wizard = Minion squisher. Also Cleric, but not so much because of healing needs.

[Nocturnal]

douglas said:
Oh, and Nocturnal, it would be a good idea for you to take Scorching Blast. I don't think any other class gets an at will area attack, and that can be rather important if we ever fight a huge mass of minions.


Thanks. Already got my eye on every area attack, due to the title of this thread. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/wink.gif Of course I'll be calling down pillars of flame left, right, and center.

[narf poit chez BOOM]

*Innocent GM look*

[narf poit chez BOOM]

Since we may be starting soon, I'd like everyone to state one thing they'd like to see in the game.

Depending on what it is, it might not happen right away, but if it's not going to happen at all, I'll tell you and try to negotiate. (I don't expect to happen, but someone could be silly and say 'A Vorpal sword...At second level' http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/laugh.gif )

(Yes, my sleep schedule can get very wonky...Especially when I'm trying to unwonky it)

[Nocturnal]

A quest which requires us to wholesale slaughter innocent garden-variety bunny rabbits (http://www.ataricommunity.com/forums/showthread.php?t=320065&page=4). I don't care how little XP or gold we can get out of it, it's just that I like massacring bunnies (http://www.ataricommunity.com/forums/showthread.php?s=2fd4a5a3e440165724a0362fc11b7bf8& t=319495).

[Astorax]

I would like for the party to somehow receive a long time frame quest in addition to any short term quests the town has to offer. Like a quest that would take many adventures to finally draw to a close taking us ever further afield (or deeper in the ground http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/wink.gif )

[narf poit chez BOOM]

@Astorax: I'll assume the party is going unaligned when I formulate that; if the party doesn't, it'll be the easiest to modify.

[Nocturnal]

I'm trying to choose my character's spells and I wonder...
Is a range of 20 considered a pretty long, medium, or a short range for most combats? Like, can I expect to start a fair number of combats within 10 or 20 squares of the nearest enemies?

[narf poit chez BOOM]

(Note: The math is there just to show conclusions. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif )

x5 to convert to feet. That's 100 feet.

Most first-level characters move 6 squares - That's 30 feet.

3 and 1/3 (4) rounds to close, assuming only one side is closing (Logical, if the other side is using ranged weapons to weaken their enemy)

1.833~ (2) rounds to close if both are charging.

Question is, in which case is the power more useful and does it do something appropriately useful in that time?


Oh - The start of combats. In dungeons, you could easily start in the 6-12 square range. In open fields, anywhere from 40 squares to 2 squares, depending on terrain, 'shrubbery' and stealth/perception rolls.

[Astorax]

Well, as the Rogue, I'll be stealthed most of the time scouting ahead for traps/enemies. So we will have advanced warning most of the time. There are always surprises though.

I would say yes to that question - definetly within 20 squares and probably alot of the time within 10 unless its some huge room of course.

[Nocturnal]

Wonderful. In that case I'm sticking with my Blizzard build with many powerful and debilitating frost spells (and only one daily acid spell for the long-range terminations.)
I'll be fairly impotent beyond a range of 11 (not even taking Magic Missile or Sleep) so we'll count on the strikers or bows to cover us against ranged enemies. But I'll be a storm of icy death at exactly that range.
My initiative is embarrassingly pathetic: I'll always move last. Keep me alive for the first round and then we'll talk. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/wink.gif

Oh, and I have every perception and knowledge-based skill except Dungeoneering (and streetwise if you count that.) Can't help it, wizards don't have that many options... and my head is hideously large.

Narf, how would you like us to send character sheets and communicate? IRC does not like me, and I don't like it.
You can reach me by email at lord_admiral_guyatyahoo.com

Hmm, come to think of it, I can possibly just add it as an attachment here. There. Tell me if I got anything [i]terribly, terribly wrong!

[narf poit chez BOOM]

We're trying Maptool. It is currently not wanting to connect.

I think you're missing powers.

Fill-out-able character sheet, three posts down: http://forums.comicgenesis.com/viewtopic.php?f=976&t=84008&start=20

Will sleep soon. No sleep yet. Coherency going bye-bye.

[Nocturnal]

Maybe I can't post two attachments to the same post? I dunno, but here are my spells.

As the thingy says, "my name cannot be pronounced by the likes of you, but there are some who know me as... Bob." He also likes to name all his spells after himself. He's really a bit of a jackass, but a very capable wizard, for a beginner anyway. (I actually stole every single idea I've used so far from somewhere else. That one from "The Holy Grail.")

I can understand if you think a terrifying and imposing name like... Bob is far too imposing and frightening for men and beasts alike. It wouldn't be fair to have entire swarms of minions flee at the mere sound of his name. If you prefer, I'd consent to take the more boring and less impressive name Dorfamal.

[Edit:] Updated spell list because I decided Icy Terrain sucks even with the Blizzard feat! See post further down...

[narf poit chez BOOM]

*Evil GM Grin*

[Nocturnal]

Where do we connect to in Maptool?

Did you mention a server name...? Is a username password needed?

[narf poit chez BOOM]

We're trying Maptool. It is currently not wanting to connect.


Last time I tried maptool, I got javascript timeout errors.

[Nocturnal]

Mine connects no problem and takes me to a GM map screen thingy. Maybe it's a java problem? What version are you trying to run? I ran Maptool 1.2.
If it were working, does anyone (besides you and Astorax) know what server we'd connect to?

[narf poit chez BOOM]

I think I managed to get it working - Server 'Test'.

[narf poit chez BOOM]

My computers' crashing bug is back.

Fortunately, as evident, if I can nab someone elses', the game can continue - I uploaded the folder to my website as a precaution.

[narf poit chez BOOM]

Your character looks ok.

Also, 'Bobs floating disk'? Hmm...*Evil GM Grin*

[Nocturnal]

*Fails Insight check.* Ah, there's that grin that says lots of enchanted gear including a neat Staff of the War Mage awaits us after the third encounter.

I realized that you're not supposed to carry ritual components with you so here's an updated inventory and spell list.

When was the start time (http://wwp.greenwichmeantime.com/) and date again? I'm ready right now, but what about the rest of us?

[narf poit chez BOOM]

Where does it say not to carry ritual components with you? I must have missed that...

Saturday, ~12 PM PST, I think - I couldn't find it in the thread.

Anyway, that's a tentative start date.

[Astorax]

Only carry the Ritual Components with you if you intend of using the Ritual on the adventure. If you aren't planning on that, don't buy the Components at all.

I'm open for whenever. We just need everyone to give Narf a copy of their character sheet (preferably as a .pdf sheet) so its easy for him to tell what you have. You can upload your .pdf on www.spaceempires.com (http://www.spaceempires.com) for free but you have to register. You can then link it and ppl can view/download it whenever they like.

Narf, look at this: http://gametable.galactanet.com/

[Nocturnal]

Sorry, my mistake: it said in a few places that party members could share costs during a ritual, and that you'd carry as many ritual components "as you need or can afford" so I thought maybe it was abstracted and the game assumes I already have as many components as I need for any given ritual, up to the amount of gold I'm carrying. However it is probably not so, so I'll take about half my leftover gold as reagents (rounded down to the nearest 10.)

Another mistake: I forgot that being east means I'm in the future. (Thought it was today. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/redface.gif) Noon on Saturday will be 7 in the evening GMT, also still Saturday. That's 2200 at night here and still works fine (especially as it's the Summer Solstice, woohoo!) only I have work the next day so we can have a session up to a few hours.

[Astorax]

If everyone agrees to share the costs, we can. But, thats likely something to discuss after the adventure when we're divvying up the loot. Take out expenses first, then divide the rest. Regardless, you'll have to have bought the stuff beforehand to actually do the Ritual. Luckily, level 1 Ritual Components only cost 10gp for a full Ritual's worth.

[narf poit chez BOOM]

I've figured out the maptools issue and can get it to work; if it proves better, I may use it for the next session, but it's too close to this session to switch.

Well, provided everyone is on, I will need everyones' character sheet and we could start then. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

Astorax - Rogue - Character sheet in.
JFries - Cleric - CS in, although I forgot to download it. I'll go get it...
Randalw - Warlock - CS not in.
Nocturnal - Wizard - CS in.
Sacarasc(sp?) - CS not in, although he seems to want to play.

[Astorax]

What about Douglas? And I'm really hoping one or both of them take Fighter/Warlord. This will get ugly if not, heh.

[narf poit chez BOOM]

Whoops...I thought I was forgetting somebody.

Douglas - CS not in.

[douglas]

Noon Pacific time works for me.

Character sheet attached to this post.

[narf poit chez BOOM]

15 + Con score is 29 - Where's the extra 5 HP come from?

Oh - If you dropped the torches, you could afford plate. The Standard Adventurers' Kit...Wait a minute, SAK?

Well, you've got sunrods in that sack you're carrying around...

Now that's a witty and appropriate acronym! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/laugh.gif

[Astorax]

Narf - Toughness feat.

[Nocturnal]

Whoops, now I see another mistake in mine: my initiative bonus is just 1, since you don't add 10 to it as a base. But you all knew that which is why nobody mentioned it. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/redface.gif

The extra 5 HP comes from his Toughness feat.

Fighters don't get Plate armor proficiency as a free class feat like Paladins do. Weird, but true! Scale armor doesn't bog you down as much anyway: it gives you the -1 speed for heavy armor but doesn't interfere with any Skill checks.

You still don't need any torches, since we have the breaklights (sorry, sunrods) and I have a cantrip that gives about as much light as a torch anyway as a minor action (plus I can attach it to a target up to 5 squares away from me.)

[Astorax]

Ok, lets get this time pinned down, shall we? What time is it now for you guys and what time (for you) tomorrow is this going to happen? lol I really just need to know when for me but I was going to calculate that from yours.

Its about 10:15 pm here now.

[narf poit chez BOOM]

Twelve PM PST. Note that the time can waver, but I'll try to be up by 12:30 - Although probably not coherent.

[Nocturnal]

Like I said before, 1900 GMT, and synchronize watches according to this (http://wwp.greenwichmeantime.com/).
The calculations there are accurate to daylight savings everywhere, so just check your timezone in the little orange bar near the top, against the difference to GMT. So now is 0324 GMT, meaning we can start in about 16 hours from the time of this post in Maptool server "Test" - unless Narf designates a different server here.

Also 19:00 Universal Time or 285° "New Earth Time (http://www.newearthtime.net/net.htm)".

[narf poit chez BOOM]

Well, we don't actually have a game name, so 'Test' will do - You could always name your adventuring company and then we have a server name.

[narf poit chez BOOM]

Just to note, secondary statistics are more important in 4e - Check the powers list; if you've got a 20 in a stat, which I remember in a couple sheets, you may want to diversify.

[narf poit chez BOOM]

We'll have to reschedule, the idiot who runs the game forgot a doctors' appointment.

[douglas]

narf poit chez BOOM said:
15 + Con score is 29 - Where's the extra 5 HP come from?

Oh - If you dropped the torches, you could afford plate. The Standard Adventurers' Kit...Wait a minute, SAK?

Well, you've got sunrods in that sack you're carrying around...

Now that's a witty and appropriate acronym! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/laugh.gif


As already noted, Toughness and I'm not proficient with plate. I could spend a feat on plate proficiency, but that would require freeing up enough points from strength to boost con to 15. 1 point of AC now instead of at level 4 vs 1 point of attack and damage for all time, I think I'll take the attack and damage boost.

The SAK includes sunrods? I hadn't noticed that little detail. Oh well, torches are cheap anyway - 1 sp each.

narf poit chez BOOM said:
Just to note, secondary statistics are more important in 4e - Check the powers list; if you've got a 20 in a stat, which I remember in a couple sheets, you may want to diversify.


For Fighters, not so much. Wisdom gives a small boost (attack bonus on opportunity attacks) and your choice of weapon gives one secondary ability score. Nothing else gives any benefit beyond the base that everyone gets.

narf poit chez BOOM said:
We'll have to reschedule, the idiot who runs the game forgot a doctors' appointment.


Would either later today or tomorrow work? My weekend's open.

[Astorax]

I'm game anytime. Not sure about JFries and sacarasc hasn't even submitted a character sheet (or read the books) yet. Its looking more like next weekend is a better time for everyone. It will give everyone a chance to tweak their characters, submit their characters sheet (or resubmit - Hi Narf!) and make some macros in Maptools for abilities you'd like it to roll automatically with some flavor text. I have macros for Stealth, Initiative, all my powers with and without combat advantage and damage rolls for various things - 1W + mod + SA and 3W + mod + SA and the mundane versions of same.

[narf poit chez BOOM]

I'm open for the rest of the day (That I know of), but I think Nocturnal is in his day cycle (Asleep) http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

[narf poit chez BOOM]

Maptool server 'Test' up, for anyone who wants to, uh, test something. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

[narf poit chez BOOM]

I think the crashing is a heat issue. I turned the AC up yesterday and it stopped crashing. I've turned it up again and put the server back on.

Also, server 'Test' back up.

[narf poit chez BOOM]

Eh, I'm taking a nap and taking the server down.

If you want a pre-game meet, set up a time. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

Might want to talk about schedules, too.

[Astorax]

Yeah, everyone should atleast open their own copies of Maptool and setup some macros for themselves and we should definetly all get together on Narf's server way before the next weekend? whenever the game ends up being so we can test whether it will comfortably handle it.

As stated previously, I'm open for whenever.

[Randallw]

Here's my CS, part 1.
seems I can't fit them together. Maybe because they only have a quality of 5.

[Randallw]

part 2

[narf poit chez BOOM]

Character sheet three posts down that you can fill on the computer...If you want it... http://forums.comicgenesis.com/viewtopic.php?f=976&t=84008&start=20

[Randallw]

which just goes to show my mind doesn't think straight. I actually used a copy of that pdf but I printed it out so I could lie down while I read the rules. It never occurred to me to use my pdf copy and fill it in, then make available the pdf. I just scanned my hardcopy http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/rolleyes.gif

[Nocturnal]

narf poit chez BOOM said:
I'm open for the rest of the day (That I know of), but I think Nocturnal is in his day cycle (Asleep) http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

That's right: Eladrin can get away with a 4-hour trance but unfortunately I do need occasional sleep. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif


narf poit chez BOOM said:
I think the crashing is a heat issue. I turned the AC up yesterday and it stopped crashing. I've turned it up again and put the server back on.

That's what it sounded like to me too. Try opening your computer's case and putting a fan near and facing it to improve airflow. Also check that your CPU fan is still working well. It is a temporary measure, but worked for a few computers that had heating issues.


Astorax said:
Yeah, everyone should atleast open their own copies of Maptool and setup some macros for themselves and we should definetly all get together on Narf's server way before the next weekend? whenever the game ends up being so we can test whether it will comfortably handle it.

As stated previously, I'm open for whenever.

It's a good idea to stress-test the system with anyone who can get together at any time. I totally agree. If we can't get everyone together at once, you can even go ahead without me and gain some XP until I can join. The game's "standard party size" according to stuff like foraging and rituals is 5 people anyway, so if we miss one or two, that's fine. We already have one of each "role" so if even three or four of us besides the GM can get together, they should try it and have the others join when they can.

How do we make macros in Maptool? Is there a tutorial or forum topic on that someplace?

It's still weekend for most of you right? I am at work but can be available at the same time tonight (1900 GMT or 1200 PST, 22/06/08) but not sure yet about the rest of the week.

If we end up waiting for next weekend it'd be better to try Friday evening first, which is a weekend for everyone (that's Saturday morning for me.) Some of us might have cleared our schedules only to have it moved at the last minute. (Hope no one did?) Does anybody actually want more time to tweak characters?


Randallw said:
Here's my CS, part 1.
seems I can't fit them together. Maybe because they only have a quality of 5.


Cool! If you beat the stuffing out of someone who's language you can speak, you might be able to intimidate them into surrendering! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

[Randallw]

Yes, you can see I won't be letting people hoodwink me, and if they try I'll lie to them or failing that just threaten them till they backdown.

[Astorax]

Nocturnal, I think Maptool does have its own forums but I don't have the link (just google maptool and browse the site) but here is a couple pointers:

The numbered buttons on the bottom right - rightclick on one of them to bring up its properties. There you can name it, do the macro commands and tell it to broadcast the name you chose when you click on it. Example:

Button #1: I rightclicked it and for label I put Stealth. I didn't hotkey but you can if you like. Under command, I put /me fades into the shadows ... hit enter to start a new line and then put [1d20 + 9] so it would autoroll a d20 dice and add my +9 to stealth to the result. I was through for commands so I then ticked the Include Label button so it would say whatever label I gave the button before it did any of the commands. So, when I click the button I labeled Stealth this is what happens:

Stealth

/me fades into the shadows ...
[1d20 + 9]=[12 + 9 = 21] [21]

That above wouldn't, of course, be /me it would be whatever my name is.

[narf poit chez BOOM]

I will most likely be at a family reunion starting July 4th to 8th.

[Nocturnal]

Thanks Astorax! I'll try that when I get home.

Narf: So... what? Is the game off? That's two weekends from now.

[narf poit chez BOOM]

No, of course not. Just can't hold a session then.

[douglas]

What a coincidence, I have a family reunion on the same weekend. I will most likely be too busy enjoying the antics (planned and not) of all my many wacky uncles, aunts, and cousins (all on my dad's side - mom's an only child), along with my brother, sister, brother-in-law, sister-in-law, niece, and two nephews to be sad about missing a session of D&D. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/laugh.gif

[narf poit chez BOOM]

This isn't working.

Options: Friday or Saturday.

Give me a start and end time for each in PST.

(Left-braining. Logical and precise. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif )

[Astorax]

Any: Any.

You guys decide and I'll be there.

[Randallw]

Could you give me a GMT? Then I can figure out exactly what times we're talking about.

[narf poit chez BOOM]

12 AM/Noon PST is 7 PM GMT, Apparently (http://www.timeanddate.com/worldclock/converted.html?day=25&month=6&year=2008&hour=0&min =0&sec=0&p1=256&p2=0).

[Randallw]

That makes me 17 hours ahead. so 12pm for you looks like 5am for me, if my calculations are right. Unfortunate.
Vancouver UMT Hobart
12pm-> 7pm-> 5am

[Nocturnal]

Randallw said:
That makes me 17 hours ahead.

Actually you are 7 hours behind. It's an important distinction when talking about a particular date.

[narf poit chez BOOM]

Yep, dates, please. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

[douglas]

Nocturnal said:

Randallw said:
That makes me 17 hours ahead.

Actually you are 7 hours behind. It's an important distinction when talking about a particular date.


It is an important distinction, but you've got it the wrong way. If you count by the direction indicated by a 7-hour-behind difference, you cross the international date line and have to jump a day forward. He is 17 hours ahead.

I am available on Friday starting about 6 PM Eastern time, which is 3 PM Pacific. I may be a bit tired, however. I am available all day Saturday with plenty of time to sleep in to ensure I am wide awake.

[Nocturnal]

douglas said:

Nocturnal said:

Randallw said:
That makes me 17 hours ahead.

Actually you are 7 hours behind. It's an important distinction when talking about a particular date.


It is an important distinction, but you've got it the wrong way. If you count by the direction indicated by a 7-hour-behind difference, you cross the international date line and have to jump a day forward. He is 17 hours ahead.

Drat-blast-it! Foiled again by the date!

Why can't people just schedule according to a standardized time like UTC?
Maybe we should talk in ETA since I obviously have no clue what day it is. For me I think it's Thursday now, 11:11 PM or 2311 on the 26th of June 2008. I am going to try and sleep tonight, but I can be free for much of the day tomorrow. Say from 1500 to 1900 my time, that's 0500 to 0900 PST (They're GMT-7, I'm GMT+3) - Hmm, might not be convenient for some of you.

I'm going out to dinner tomorrow night for my birthday. When I come back we can play too, say from 2200 my time (1200 noon PST) until late the next evening. So at any time from noon on Friday PST to early morning on Saturday PST, as long as I'm not left hanging after not sleeping a lot. I wanna slaughter some minions!
Maybe the GM will give me nice birthday presents, like a skull that spits fireballs and casts Gaze of Fear, a wand of Disintegrate, or a cool +9 orb of Kill Everything? http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/evil.gif

If you want that in numbers, my availability times are:
12:00 PM on 27th - 07:00 AM on the 28th PST, or
1900 27/6 - 1400 28/6 GMT
Or starting from 23 hours from the time of this posting as an ETA.

[narf poit chez BOOM]

The GM will give you nice presents, oh yes indeed. *Not-Innocent GM Grin*

[narf poit chez BOOM]

Saturday, then.

[narf poit chez BOOM]

I woke up this morning and, well, 'left a trail' to the toilet.

I think I will still be able to GM tomorrow, but you may need to prompt your GM. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

[narf poit chez BOOM]

Umm...How about I just post if I manage to get my brains in order enough to get the server up?

I did spend most of today huddled under a blanket...

[Nocturnal]

Saturday? I guess I have to drop out of this game then, because I will be either sleeping or at work. Sorry.

[narf poit chez BOOM]

And most of today asleep.

[Randallw]

Not that it looks like I could attend anyway, but I also have been in bed sick.

[Nocturnal]

Must be something really vicious going around, because I've been feeling like crap all weekend too!

[Randallw]

Going around? Narf is Canadian, I'm Australian, and you're British aren't you? maybe it's a virus carried by the internet. Perhaps we all downloaded something bad.

[narf poit chez BOOM]

Maybe it's a Commonwealth-seeking virus.

[Randallw]

I like the idea of an ailment that only affects members of the Empire. Well, former Empire.

[narf poit chez BOOM]

Sickness update: Still not good, but not as bad.

[narf poit chez BOOM]

Ok, player call-off - Who's still on-board, who's sick and who can't make 12 AM Saturday, PST?

[douglas]

narf poit chez BOOM said:
Ok, player call-off - Who's still on-board, who's sick and who can't make 12 AM Saturday, PST?


It is not technically correct to call 12:00 either AM or PM, but the common usage is to match whichever label would be appropriate for 12:01 so that it changes with the hour number. So, I sincerely hope the quoted time is a mistake, as midnight Pacific time would be rather inconvenient for me. Noon's fine, though.

[narf poit chez BOOM]

I've never heard of that before.

It's noon.

[Nocturnal]

That's true, noon is 12:00 PM (or 1200 military time) or 1900 UTC. I am DMing four play-by-post games on dndonlinegames.com by now (and should be playing in three more by then,) but I could perhaps make it that time if I decide not to sleep that night at all.

[narf poit chez BOOM]

I wouldn't recommend missing sleep as a regular thing. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

[narf poit chez BOOM]

...And now my stomach has decided to stop feeling ok. Blarg.

Annoying luck. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/frown.gif

I really want to get this going, but at the pace it's not been going, I don't want to tie anyone down. So, I won't be angry if people decide to drop. I mean, it's been five weeks since I announced this and we havn't even had our first session. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/frown.gif

I do hope nobody drops, though. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

[narf poit chez BOOM]

And last night I decorated the toilet.

Blargedy-annoying.

I'll post saturday, noon, on whether or not the server is up. That's the best I can say. After that, if we get at least three players, I'll start the game. Less than that and I'll ask if the player(s) *Ironic smiley* want to go ahead.

[narf poit chez BOOM]

Woke up coughing up 'gunk'.

No game today, sorry. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/frown.gif

[narf poit chez BOOM]

Given that there's a good chance I'm going to barf some time today, possibly soon, I'm going to put this game on indefinite hold.

I'm very sorry; I really wanted to have fun with this and I had some good plotlines.