Last post, I made mention of "iconic character types," with that post detailing the seemingly obligatory Wookiee. This one is about one of the other leading iconic character archetypes in Star Wars, the Jedi.
Garren wasn't built to to be a "Force wizard" type of character; he's certainly capable of using the Force, but it's not the main thrust of his design. Instead, he's more of a duelist, being heavily reliant upon his lightsaber to dish out damage, though he does have what I've come to refer to as the "Jedi Basic Training set" of Force powers, those being Battle Strike, Force Slam, and Surge. He also doesn't have Skill Focus in Use the Force, which I found appropriate as Garren is still supposed to be a Jedi-in-training and not an "instant master of the Force" that you see perhaps a bit too often in the Star Wars EU (Zayne Carrick of the KOTOR comic series being a very welcome change from that mold). Also, I used a fairly common d20 house rule in that I simply let Dodge apply a +1 dodge bonus to Reflex Defense against all opponents (still baffles me why WotC never made that change in any d20 game they wrote).
Still, Garren didn't steal the show when I ran the NJO Traitor's Gambit, but at lot of that I think was simply due to the player not being a very outgoing personality, and more content to "go with the flow" rather than trying to steer the ship. Still, he did a pretty good job of acquitting himself, getting into a pitched one-on-one duel with one of the major baddies and pulling off an impressive victory thanks to a well-timed natural 20.
Garren Mayne, Jedi Trainee
Mini Used - Jedi Sith Hunter, Masters of the Force 04/40
Background
Born and raised on a farming commune on a remote Mid Rim world, Garren never expected he’d be selected for training as a Jedi. While he’s not the most capable Force-user, he has proven to be a capable lightsaber duelist. However, with the Vong invasion, Garren has been forced into a more active role, something he’s not entirely comfortable with, especially as more and more people are forced to flee their homes.
The Three Questions
What Do You Love?
You’ve always had a fondness for smashball, and prior to being recruited for training as a Jedi, you’d hoped to make it as pro athlete. But at the very least, your passion for the sport has helped with the physical part of your training.
What Do You Hate?
You have no patience for bullies of any stripe, be it in the form of adolescent hoodlums to professional criminals. You’re quick to stand up to such creeps, even under those circumstances where a cooler head might prevail.
Why Are You Aboard the Zahn Pulsar?
You and your master were part of a Jedi contingent that were trying to help a large group of refugees make it safely to the Hapes Cluster. Sadly, your master didn’t make it, and as per his instructions, you’ve joined the other passengers of the refugee ship, with the intent of making your way back to the Order’s current base of operations once this batch of refugees have made it safely to their destination.
Garren Mayne (CL 2)
Medium Adult Male Human Jedi 2
Destiny 1; Force 6
Init +8; Senses Perception +8
Languages Basic, Bocce
Defenses Ref 16 (flat-footed 13), Fort 14, Will 15
hp 39; Second Wind 12hp; Threshold 14
Speed 6 squares
Melee unarmed +3 (1d4+2) or
Melee lightsaber +4 (2d8+4) or
Ranged by weapon +4
Base Atk +2; Grp +4
Force Powers (Use the Force +7) battle strike, Force slam, surge
Abilities Str 12, Dex 14, Con 12, Int 12, Wis 14, Cha 12
Background Occupation - Labor
Talents Weapon Specialization (lightsaber)
Feats Dodge, Force Sensitivity, Force Training, Weapon Focus (lightsabers), Weapon Proficiency (lightsabers, simple weapons)
Skills Acrobatics +8, Climb +4, Endurance +4, Initiative +8, Jump +4, Perception +8, Use the Force +7
Possessions lightsaber, utility belt, casual clothes, 100 credits
Edit: Quick fix to note that Garren is a Jedi Trainee, not a Wookiee Mechanic :P
January 31, 2012
January 29, 2012
Garrbecca, Wookiee Mechanic
If you're a listener of the Threat Detected podcast, you might recognize the name. Garrbecca was one of three pre-gen characters I brought with me for Garrett's NJO Traitor's Gambit Friday session. Though I opted to stick with Alwyn Reezaki for both halves, Garrett had one player too many for the number of pre-gens he had available, so I offered up the other two, with Garrbecca being selected.
The idea behind Garrbecca is pretty simple. I wanted a couple of character choices that would at least give a nod to some of the iconic characters of the series, and Garbecca is a fairly obvious nod to the mighty Chewbacca. I've tweaked Garrbecca a fair amount from his debut at GenCon and overall I think he's a better character for it. Also, the hydrospanner in Garrbecca's stat block is pretty treated as a club in terms of proficiency and damage.
Garrbecca, Wookiee Mechanic
Mini Used - Chewbacca, Rebel Storm 03/60
Background
Not quite old enough to have been a participant in the Galactic Civil War, Garrbecca counts himself lucky that he never wound up enslaved like so many other Wookiees did at the hands of the Empire. A capable mechanic, he worked in the repair bays of a New Republic garrison base for several years prior to the onset of the invasion by the Yuuzhan Vong. When the garrison base was overrun, Garrbecca was among the lucky handful of survivors, and was able to barter passage aboard the Zahn Pulsar, trading his skills as a mechanic for a berth aboard refugee transport. It’s a far cry from being a trip on a luxury liner, but if it gets you back to New Republic space, then it’ll do just fine.
The Three Questions
What Do You Love?
You’re a grease monkey at heart, and you enjoy working on vehicles of all sorts, from humble repulsorcarts to high-performance swoop bikes to rugged space transports and everything in between.
What Do You Hate?
As a Wookiee, you were raised to be loyal and forthright, and so you take a very dim view on those who betray their word or allies, especially those that have betrayed their fellow sentient beings by collaborating with the Vong.
Why Are You Aboard the Zahn Pulsar?
You’re trying to escape the Vong like so many other beings. You knew the Zahn Pulsar was one of the few ships in the region that was heading for New Republic space. The ship’s pretty run-down, but it’s still space-worthy and should get you and the other refugees to safe harbor.
Garrbecca (CL 2)
Medium Adult Male Wookiee Scout 2
Destiny 1; Force 6
Init +7; Senses Perception +7
Languages Basic*, Binary*, Shyriiwook, Sullustese*
*understand only
Defenses Ref 15 (flat-footed 14), Fort 15, Will 13
hp 33; Second Wind 14hp; Threshold 15
Speed 6 squares
Melee unarmed +4 (1d4+4) or
Melee hydrospanner +4 (1d6+4) or
Ranged blaster carbine +2 (3d8+1) or
Ranged blaster carbine -3 (3d8+1) with autofire
Base Atk +1; Grp +4
Atk Options autofire (blaster carbine), Point Blank Shot
Special Actions Gearhead, rage (1/day), Shake it Off
Abilities Str 16, Dex 12, Con 14, Int 14, Wis 12, Cha 8
Special Qualities extraordinary recuperation
Background Occupation - Technology
Talents Jury-Rigger
Feats Gearhad, Point Blank Shot, Shake it Off, Weapon Proficiency (pistols, rifles, simple weapons)
Skills Climb +4 (take 10), Endurance +8, Initiative +7, Knowledge (technology) +8, Mechanics +8, Perception +7, Persuasion +0 (may re-roll to intimidate), Pilot +7, Survival +7, Use Computer +5
Possessions blaster carbine, datapad, utility belt, 65 credits
The idea behind Garrbecca is pretty simple. I wanted a couple of character choices that would at least give a nod to some of the iconic characters of the series, and Garbecca is a fairly obvious nod to the mighty Chewbacca. I've tweaked Garrbecca a fair amount from his debut at GenCon and overall I think he's a better character for it. Also, the hydrospanner in Garrbecca's stat block is pretty treated as a club in terms of proficiency and damage.
Garrbecca, Wookiee Mechanic
Mini Used - Chewbacca, Rebel Storm 03/60
Background
Not quite old enough to have been a participant in the Galactic Civil War, Garrbecca counts himself lucky that he never wound up enslaved like so many other Wookiees did at the hands of the Empire. A capable mechanic, he worked in the repair bays of a New Republic garrison base for several years prior to the onset of the invasion by the Yuuzhan Vong. When the garrison base was overrun, Garrbecca was among the lucky handful of survivors, and was able to barter passage aboard the Zahn Pulsar, trading his skills as a mechanic for a berth aboard refugee transport. It’s a far cry from being a trip on a luxury liner, but if it gets you back to New Republic space, then it’ll do just fine.
The Three Questions
What Do You Love?
You’re a grease monkey at heart, and you enjoy working on vehicles of all sorts, from humble repulsorcarts to high-performance swoop bikes to rugged space transports and everything in between.
What Do You Hate?
As a Wookiee, you were raised to be loyal and forthright, and so you take a very dim view on those who betray their word or allies, especially those that have betrayed their fellow sentient beings by collaborating with the Vong.
Why Are You Aboard the Zahn Pulsar?
You’re trying to escape the Vong like so many other beings. You knew the Zahn Pulsar was one of the few ships in the region that was heading for New Republic space. The ship’s pretty run-down, but it’s still space-worthy and should get you and the other refugees to safe harbor.
Garrbecca (CL 2)
Medium Adult Male Wookiee Scout 2
Destiny 1; Force 6
Init +7; Senses Perception +7
Languages Basic*, Binary*, Shyriiwook, Sullustese*
*understand only
Defenses Ref 15 (flat-footed 14), Fort 15, Will 13
hp 33; Second Wind 14hp; Threshold 15
Speed 6 squares
Melee unarmed +4 (1d4+4) or
Melee hydrospanner +4 (1d6+4) or
Ranged blaster carbine +2 (3d8+1) or
Ranged blaster carbine -3 (3d8+1) with autofire
Base Atk +1; Grp +4
Atk Options autofire (blaster carbine), Point Blank Shot
Special Actions Gearhead, rage (1/day), Shake it Off
Abilities Str 16, Dex 12, Con 14, Int 14, Wis 12, Cha 8
Special Qualities extraordinary recuperation
Background Occupation - Technology
Talents Jury-Rigger
Feats Gearhad, Point Blank Shot, Shake it Off, Weapon Proficiency (pistols, rifles, simple weapons)
Skills Climb +4 (take 10), Endurance +8, Initiative +7, Knowledge (technology) +8, Mechanics +8, Perception +7, Persuasion +0 (may re-roll to intimidate), Pilot +7, Survival +7, Use Computer +5
Possessions blaster carbine, datapad, utility belt, 65 credits
January 26, 2012
More thoughts on Dragon Age RPG & AGE system
Been a while since I did any kind of post regarding the Dragon Age RPG, which is a tad lax of me seeing as how a few weekends ago our merry little band of miscreants got together for another adventure. This time, we played through "A Bann Too Many," the adventure that comes with the GM screen. Good thing we'd gotten an early start on that Saturday, as we played it straight through in a single day.
Have to say it was a pretty well-done adventure, and reflects the generally bleak nature of Thedas, and how even when you win, you can still lose. Even though our characters came out with a pretty good haul in terms of loot, there was a price to be paid by the folks of Logerswold given what we learned about the bandit raids, of which I'll not say more to avoid spoilers as it caught us by surprise. I also think our group may have acquired a long-running nemesis, but it remains to be seen if anything will come of it.
Also, the more I play this game, the more I find myself enjoying the simplicity of it. We've got a pretty broad range of character types, and everyone has a way to contribute both inside and outside of combat. Most of us are 3rd level at this point, so we've either picked up new talents (both rogues and the mage) or gotten the next step up in a starting talent (what I did for my sword&board warrior). On that note, it does seem that in a lot of instances, the sheer wealth of talents available are bound to be overlooked, at least if your group has any interest in improving their combat effectiveness. While Rogues tend to start with non-combat talents, I imagine that for a lot of them, their talent choices for the next few levels, starting with 3rd level, are going to be combat talents focusing on their preferred style of combat, while Mages are bound to do the same and pick talents centering on their preferred school of magic. Warriors are already encouraged to focus on beating up bad guys, though I'd expect some branching out to occur once their major combat styles are seen to. Maybe it's just my being jaded by 3rd edition D&D and the sheer overkill of feats, but I see a bit of that trend in Dragon Age, with all these neat flavor/fluff talents being overlooked for ones that give you a direct bonus in combat. Then again, maybe it's just that our group is still pretty low-level, and that we've not even reached the point where Specializations are an option. Hopefully, I'll have a chance to see if time will tell.
Have to say it was a pretty well-done adventure, and reflects the generally bleak nature of Thedas, and how even when you win, you can still lose. Even though our characters came out with a pretty good haul in terms of loot, there was a price to be paid by the folks of Logerswold given what we learned about the bandit raids, of which I'll not say more to avoid spoilers as it caught us by surprise. I also think our group may have acquired a long-running nemesis, but it remains to be seen if anything will come of it.
Also, the more I play this game, the more I find myself enjoying the simplicity of it. We've got a pretty broad range of character types, and everyone has a way to contribute both inside and outside of combat. Most of us are 3rd level at this point, so we've either picked up new talents (both rogues and the mage) or gotten the next step up in a starting talent (what I did for my sword&board warrior). On that note, it does seem that in a lot of instances, the sheer wealth of talents available are bound to be overlooked, at least if your group has any interest in improving their combat effectiveness. While Rogues tend to start with non-combat talents, I imagine that for a lot of them, their talent choices for the next few levels, starting with 3rd level, are going to be combat talents focusing on their preferred style of combat, while Mages are bound to do the same and pick talents centering on their preferred school of magic. Warriors are already encouraged to focus on beating up bad guys, though I'd expect some branching out to occur once their major combat styles are seen to. Maybe it's just my being jaded by 3rd edition D&D and the sheer overkill of feats, but I see a bit of that trend in Dragon Age, with all these neat flavor/fluff talents being overlooked for ones that give you a direct bonus in combat. Then again, maybe it's just that our group is still pretty low-level, and that we've not even reached the point where Specializations are an option. Hopefully, I'll have a chance to see if time will tell.
Falyn Arranda, "Investigative" Agent
For this installment, I present someone that you wouldn't immediately expect to be helping out on a mission that benefits the Jedi and the New Republic. When coming up with pre-gen characters, I wanted at least one of them to reflect the fact that while the Galactic Empire is greatly diminished, it's not entirely gone either. My first thought was an ex-stormtrooper or something like that. But then I thought, why not someone that's still actively working for the Empire? After all, the Empire by the time of the New Jedi Order is no longer the bastion of tyranny and oppression that it was under Palpatine, so working for the Empire was no longer shorthand for bad guy. But then I didn't want this person's Imperial ties to overt either, even going so far as to label her as an "Investigative Agent." And in spite of its diminished power base, the folks in charge of the Imperial Remnant would still have need of espionage agents. And so, Falyn Arranda came into being. Her player, an SWSE veteran of some years, did a fantastic job putting Falyn's various skills to good use to learn what she needed to know and act upon that knowledge.
Falyn Arranda, "Investigative" Agent
Mini Used - Old Republic Recruit, Legacy of the Force 02/60
Background
Falynn was born during the waning years of Imperial control, her father a clerk in the Imperial bureaucracy. Even as the Empire collapsed and gave way to the New Republic, Falyn’s parents remained loyal, and when she came of age Falyn enlisted into Imperial Intelligence, being trained as a covert operative. Since the Vong invasion began, Falyn has been quite busy gathering what intel she can on the extra-galactic invaders for her superiors.
The Three Questions
What Do You Love?
You enjoy the sensation that comes with uncovering secrets that others want to keep unknown. You view your job as a contest of wits, and victory on your part is always sweet.
What Do You Hate?
You have a strong distaste for those that subscribe to the old gender prejudices that marked the Empire under Palpatine’s control. You might be a woman, but you’re just as capable as any man, and you don’t need to play the role of a fawning addled tart to do your job.
Why Are You Aboard the Zahn Pulsar?
You were on a reconnaissance mission to assess the defenses of one of the New Republic’s member worlds when the Vong launched a surprise attack. You lost your primary means of transport in the attack, you were forced to pass yourself off as a refugee, bartering for passage aboard the Zahn Pulsar, figuring that once you’d reached the Hapes Cluster you’d then be able to arrange for transport back to Imperial space.
Falyn Arranda (CL 2)
Medium Adult Female Human Scoundrel 2
Destiny 1; Force 6
Init +8; Senses Perception +12
Languages Basic, High Galactic, Sy Bisti
Defenses Ref 16 (flat-footed 14), Fort 12, Will 14
hp 22; Second Wind 11hp; Threshold 12
Speed 6 squares
Melee unarmed +2 (1d4+2) or
Melee snap baton +2 (2d4+2) or
Ranged blaster pistol +4 (3d6+1)
Base Atk +1; Grp +3
Atk Options Point Blank Shot
Special Actions Quick Draw
Abilities Str 12, Dex 14, Con 11, Int 14, Wis 12, Cha 13
Background Occupation - Military
Talents Security Slicer
Feats Informer, Point Blank Shot, Quick Draw, Skill Focus (Perception), Weapon Proficiency (pistols, simple weapons)
Skills Acrobatics +8, Deception +7, Endurance +3, Gather Information +12, Initiative +8, Mechanics +8, Perception +12, Ride +5, Stealth +8, Treat Injury +4, Use Computer +8
Possessions blaster pistol (cloaked), snap baton, bracer computer, concealed holster, earbud comlink, medpac, tool kit
Falyn Arranda, "Investigative" Agent
Mini Used - Old Republic Recruit, Legacy of the Force 02/60
Background
Falynn was born during the waning years of Imperial control, her father a clerk in the Imperial bureaucracy. Even as the Empire collapsed and gave way to the New Republic, Falyn’s parents remained loyal, and when she came of age Falyn enlisted into Imperial Intelligence, being trained as a covert operative. Since the Vong invasion began, Falyn has been quite busy gathering what intel she can on the extra-galactic invaders for her superiors.
The Three Questions
What Do You Love?
You enjoy the sensation that comes with uncovering secrets that others want to keep unknown. You view your job as a contest of wits, and victory on your part is always sweet.
What Do You Hate?
You have a strong distaste for those that subscribe to the old gender prejudices that marked the Empire under Palpatine’s control. You might be a woman, but you’re just as capable as any man, and you don’t need to play the role of a fawning addled tart to do your job.
Why Are You Aboard the Zahn Pulsar?
You were on a reconnaissance mission to assess the defenses of one of the New Republic’s member worlds when the Vong launched a surprise attack. You lost your primary means of transport in the attack, you were forced to pass yourself off as a refugee, bartering for passage aboard the Zahn Pulsar, figuring that once you’d reached the Hapes Cluster you’d then be able to arrange for transport back to Imperial space.
Falyn Arranda (CL 2)
Medium Adult Female Human Scoundrel 2
Destiny 1; Force 6
Init +8; Senses Perception +12
Languages Basic, High Galactic, Sy Bisti
Defenses Ref 16 (flat-footed 14), Fort 12, Will 14
hp 22; Second Wind 11hp; Threshold 12
Speed 6 squares
Melee unarmed +2 (1d4+2) or
Melee snap baton +2 (2d4+2) or
Ranged blaster pistol +4 (3d6+1)
Base Atk +1; Grp +3
Atk Options Point Blank Shot
Special Actions Quick Draw
Abilities Str 12, Dex 14, Con 11, Int 14, Wis 12, Cha 13
Background Occupation - Military
Talents Security Slicer
Feats Informer, Point Blank Shot, Quick Draw, Skill Focus (Perception), Weapon Proficiency (pistols, simple weapons)
Skills Acrobatics +8, Deception +7, Endurance +3, Gather Information +12, Initiative +8, Mechanics +8, Perception +12, Ride +5, Stealth +8, Treat Injury +4, Use Computer +8
Possessions blaster pistol (cloaked), snap baton, bracer computer, concealed holster, earbud comlink, medpac, tool kit
January 24, 2012
Order 66 Podcast - You RP What You Sow
So the latest episode of the original Star Wars Saga Edition gaming podcast hit the intertubes quite recently, and yours truly got a mention as part of their "juicy bits of web goodness" segment.
This episode begins a discussion on the various Jedi Service Corps, starting with the AgriCorps and what it means to be a member of said group, including how to play a character whose heroic career had a less than auspicious start as well as some solid suggestions for building such a character.
This episode begins a discussion on the various Jedi Service Corps, starting with the AgriCorps and what it means to be a member of said group, including how to play a character whose heroic career had a less than auspicious start as well as some solid suggestions for building such a character.
Faddo Nukkels, Gungan Bounty Hunter
As the next pre-gen character from my NJO Traitor's Gambit session, I present a character choice that most probably wouldn't make. Thanks to the bumbling of one Jar Jar Binks, most people tend to overlook Gungans as viable character ideas. So I opted to take a step to correct that, and so the idea of a Gungan bounty hunter was spawned. The fact that he makes use of old-fashioned slugthrowers I thought was a neat hook, which the person that played Faddo agreed with.
Faddo Nukkels, Bounty Hunter
Mini Used - Gungan Bounty Hunter, Dark Times 28/40
Background
Faddo used to be part of the Gungan militia, trained to protect and watch over the populace of the Gungan underwater cities on Naboo. However, Faddo came to realize that he was much better at tracking down criminals than simply doing guard duty, and so left to pursue a career as a bounty hunter. While most people don’t take him all that seriously because of his species, Faddo has started to build a minor reputation for himself, especially due to his degree of skill with slugthrower weapons.
The Three Questions
What Do You Love?
You enjoy the thrill of the hunt, be it tracking down a criminal wanted by the authorities or something just as simple as finding that which is missing.
What Do You Hate?
You hate being compared to that bumbler Senator Binks, whose idiocy left the galaxy with a very bad impression of the Gungan people. Sure, you speak Basic with a peculiar accent, but that doesn’t give people the right to presume that you’re mentally deficient.
Why Are You Aboard the Zahn Pulsar?
You’d just claimed the bounty on a small-time deathstick dealer when the Yuuzahn Vong attacked. It cost you most of your reward money to secure passage aboard the Zahn Pulsar, something that you’re not happy about in the least. Still, it beats being left behind to face a Vong invasion fleet, as you know a losing fight when you see one. You’re not sure what you’re going to do once the Pulsar reaches the Hapes Cluster, but from what little you’ve heard about the Hapan courts, there just might be work for you yet.
Faddo Nukkels (CL 2)
Medium Adult Male Gungan Scout 2
Destiny 1; Force 6
Init +8; Senses Perception +8; low-light vision
Languages Basic, Gunganese
Defenses Ref 18 (flat-footed 16), Fort 15, Will 14
hp 33; Second Wind 14hp; Threshold 15
Speed 6 squares, Swim 4 squares
Melee unarmed +2 (1d4+2) or
Melee survival knife +2 (1d6+2) or
Ranged slugthrower rifle +3 (2d12+1) or
Ranged slugthrower pistol +3 (2d6+1) or
Ranged stun grenade +3 (4d6+1 stun, 2sq burst)
Base Atk +1; Grp +3
Atk Options autofire (slugthrower rifle), Point Blank Shot, Sport Hunter
Special Actions Shake it Off
Abilities Str 12, Dex 15, Con 14, Int 11, Wis 14, Cha 8
Background Occupation - Law Enforcement
Talents Acute Senses
Feats Point Blank Shot, Shake it Off, Sport Hunter, Weapon Proficiency (pistols, rifles, simple weapons)
Skills Acrobatics +5, Endurance +8, Gather Information +5, Initiative +8, Knowledge (bureaucracy) +3, Perception +8 (may re-roll), Survival +8, Swim +2 (may re-roll, may take 10)
Possessions slugthrower pistol, slugthrower rifle, plenty of ammo for each, survival knife, 2 stun grenades, basic datapad, binder cuffs, bounty hunter license, comlink, hip holster, 250 credits
Faddo Nukkels, Bounty Hunter
Mini Used - Gungan Bounty Hunter, Dark Times 28/40
Background
Faddo used to be part of the Gungan militia, trained to protect and watch over the populace of the Gungan underwater cities on Naboo. However, Faddo came to realize that he was much better at tracking down criminals than simply doing guard duty, and so left to pursue a career as a bounty hunter. While most people don’t take him all that seriously because of his species, Faddo has started to build a minor reputation for himself, especially due to his degree of skill with slugthrower weapons.
The Three Questions
What Do You Love?
You enjoy the thrill of the hunt, be it tracking down a criminal wanted by the authorities or something just as simple as finding that which is missing.
What Do You Hate?
You hate being compared to that bumbler Senator Binks, whose idiocy left the galaxy with a very bad impression of the Gungan people. Sure, you speak Basic with a peculiar accent, but that doesn’t give people the right to presume that you’re mentally deficient.
Why Are You Aboard the Zahn Pulsar?
You’d just claimed the bounty on a small-time deathstick dealer when the Yuuzahn Vong attacked. It cost you most of your reward money to secure passage aboard the Zahn Pulsar, something that you’re not happy about in the least. Still, it beats being left behind to face a Vong invasion fleet, as you know a losing fight when you see one. You’re not sure what you’re going to do once the Pulsar reaches the Hapes Cluster, but from what little you’ve heard about the Hapan courts, there just might be work for you yet.
Faddo Nukkels (CL 2)
Medium Adult Male Gungan Scout 2
Destiny 1; Force 6
Init +8; Senses Perception +8; low-light vision
Languages Basic, Gunganese
Defenses Ref 18 (flat-footed 16), Fort 15, Will 14
hp 33; Second Wind 14hp; Threshold 15
Speed 6 squares, Swim 4 squares
Melee unarmed +2 (1d4+2) or
Melee survival knife +2 (1d6+2) or
Ranged slugthrower rifle +3 (2d12+1) or
Ranged slugthrower pistol +3 (2d6+1) or
Ranged stun grenade +3 (4d6+1 stun, 2sq burst)
Base Atk +1; Grp +3
Atk Options autofire (slugthrower rifle), Point Blank Shot, Sport Hunter
Special Actions Shake it Off
Abilities Str 12, Dex 15, Con 14, Int 11, Wis 14, Cha 8
Background Occupation - Law Enforcement
Talents Acute Senses
Feats Point Blank Shot, Shake it Off, Sport Hunter, Weapon Proficiency (pistols, rifles, simple weapons)
Skills Acrobatics +5, Endurance +8, Gather Information +5, Initiative +8, Knowledge (bureaucracy) +3, Perception +8 (may re-roll), Survival +8, Swim +2 (may re-roll, may take 10)
Possessions slugthrower pistol, slugthrower rifle, plenty of ammo for each, survival knife, 2 stun grenades, basic datapad, binder cuffs, bounty hunter license, comlink, hip holster, 250 credits
Some well wishes for a very nice young lady.
Not gaming related, but just want to take a moment to toss this out onto the ether.
Nateal, one of the co-hostess of the Geek Fatale, is a very charming and nice person that I got the chance to meet in person at GenCon last year as well as having the chance to play a few different board games and a round of the Artemis Starship Bridge Simulator (which was a blast to play).
Sadly, things have not been going as fantastic for her as they should be for someone so nice and sweet. I'll not spell them out here, but if you follow her, either on Twitter or Facebook, then you know the nasty details, however today seems to have been an all-time low. So Nateal, I'm just going to take a moment to offer a zen hug and a hope that things get better for you soon.
Edit: And I feel a bit like a twit for not having put a link up to the Geek Fatale website. It's now listed on my Favorite Links list. Honestly, if you've not given the Geek Fatale podcast a listen, do so. Speaking as a guy, it's a intriguing look into the mindset of the female geek, and is extremely entertaining to boot.
Nateal, one of the co-hostess of the Geek Fatale, is a very charming and nice person that I got the chance to meet in person at GenCon last year as well as having the chance to play a few different board games and a round of the Artemis Starship Bridge Simulator (which was a blast to play).
Sadly, things have not been going as fantastic for her as they should be for someone so nice and sweet. I'll not spell them out here, but if you follow her, either on Twitter or Facebook, then you know the nasty details, however today seems to have been an all-time low. So Nateal, I'm just going to take a moment to offer a zen hug and a hope that things get better for you soon.
Edit: And I feel a bit like a twit for not having put a link up to the Geek Fatale website. It's now listed on my Favorite Links list. Honestly, if you've not given the Geek Fatale podcast a listen, do so. Speaking as a guy, it's a intriguing look into the mindset of the female geek, and is extremely entertaining to boot.
January 22, 2012
Biggs Tabanne, Freighter Pilot
Here's the next pre-gen character from my NJO Traitor's Gambit session. I'd originally meant to do one every other day starting with Friday, but since I missed Friday, today is a two-fer.
Seems every Star Wars group needs at least one person that's a crack pilot, and Biggs here fits the bill. For those of you that enjoy checking to make sure all the numbers add-up and any character stat-block has the right number of feats, talents, and what-not, do note that he's got an extra Skill Focus due to his Background selection ;)
Biggs Tabane, Freighter Pilot
Mini Used - Dash Rendar, Universe 16/60
Background
Born and raised in the Core Worlds, Biggs was eager to get away from his stifling family and see the galaxy. His father was insistent that Biggs follow his father into serving in the same shipping company that their family had worked for, but Biggs was determined not to become a wage-slave, and opted to sign up aboard a tramp freighter. Even though he’s been cut off from the family finances, Biggs has been able to make ends meet while fulfilling his aspirations of traveling from one end of the galaxy to the other.
The Three Questions
What Do You Love?
There’s nothing you like more at the end of a long shift than a potent alcoholic beverage, with Corellian whisky being your preferred drink. You’re fully aware a blitzed pilot is of no good to anyone, so you practice moderation when on a job, but otherwise freely indulge yourself when at ease.
What Do You Hate?
You hate having to deal with any form of bureaucracy; it’s a large part of why you got thrown you by your wage-slave father. You’ve no issues with a direct command structure; it’s just the interference that a plethora of useless data-pushers and haughty mid-level managers really raises your hackles.
Why Are You Aboard the Zahn Pulsar?
You’d just managed to get yourself hired aboard the Zahn Pulsar as part of the bridge crew a few weeks ago, and have been serving under Captain D’waron as he ferried refugees away from the invasion fleets of the Yuuzahn Vong. You’re not happy with how dangerously over-stuffed the Pulsar is from all the refugees, but that’s the Captain’s decision to make; after all, your job is to steer the ship in the direction he gives.
Biggs Tabane (CL 2)
Medium Adult Male Human Scoundrel 2
Destiny 1; Force 6
Init +8; Senses Perception +7
Languages Basic, Huttese
Defenses Ref 16 (flat-footed 14), Fort 14, Will 14
hp 24; Second Wind 13hp; Threshold 14
Speed 6 squares
Melee unarmed +2 (1d4+2) or
Melee knife +2 (1d4+2) or
Ranged heavy blaster pistol +3 (3d8+1)
Base Atk +1; Grp +3
Atk Options Point Blank Shot
Special Actions Quick Draw, Vehicular Combat
Abilities Str 12, Dex 14, Con 13, Int 12, Wis 12, Cha 13
Background Event - Exiled
Talents Spacehound
Feats Point Blank Shot, Quick Draw, Skill Focus (Knowledge [galactic lore], Pilot), Vehicular Combat, Weapon Proficiency (pistols, simple weapons)
Skills Deception +7, Initiative +8, Knowledge (galactic lore) +12, Mechanics +7, Perception +7, Pilot +13, Use Computer +2
Possessions heavy blaster pistol, knife, comlink, flight suit, hip holster, power pack, 400 credits
Seems every Star Wars group needs at least one person that's a crack pilot, and Biggs here fits the bill. For those of you that enjoy checking to make sure all the numbers add-up and any character stat-block has the right number of feats, talents, and what-not, do note that he's got an extra Skill Focus due to his Background selection ;)
Biggs Tabane, Freighter Pilot
Mini Used - Dash Rendar, Universe 16/60
Background
Born and raised in the Core Worlds, Biggs was eager to get away from his stifling family and see the galaxy. His father was insistent that Biggs follow his father into serving in the same shipping company that their family had worked for, but Biggs was determined not to become a wage-slave, and opted to sign up aboard a tramp freighter. Even though he’s been cut off from the family finances, Biggs has been able to make ends meet while fulfilling his aspirations of traveling from one end of the galaxy to the other.
The Three Questions
What Do You Love?
There’s nothing you like more at the end of a long shift than a potent alcoholic beverage, with Corellian whisky being your preferred drink. You’re fully aware a blitzed pilot is of no good to anyone, so you practice moderation when on a job, but otherwise freely indulge yourself when at ease.
What Do You Hate?
You hate having to deal with any form of bureaucracy; it’s a large part of why you got thrown you by your wage-slave father. You’ve no issues with a direct command structure; it’s just the interference that a plethora of useless data-pushers and haughty mid-level managers really raises your hackles.
Why Are You Aboard the Zahn Pulsar?
You’d just managed to get yourself hired aboard the Zahn Pulsar as part of the bridge crew a few weeks ago, and have been serving under Captain D’waron as he ferried refugees away from the invasion fleets of the Yuuzahn Vong. You’re not happy with how dangerously over-stuffed the Pulsar is from all the refugees, but that’s the Captain’s decision to make; after all, your job is to steer the ship in the direction he gives.
Biggs Tabane (CL 2)
Medium Adult Male Human Scoundrel 2
Destiny 1; Force 6
Init +8; Senses Perception +7
Languages Basic, Huttese
Defenses Ref 16 (flat-footed 14), Fort 14, Will 14
hp 24; Second Wind 13hp; Threshold 14
Speed 6 squares
Melee unarmed +2 (1d4+2) or
Melee knife +2 (1d4+2) or
Ranged heavy blaster pistol +3 (3d8+1)
Base Atk +1; Grp +3
Atk Options Point Blank Shot
Special Actions Quick Draw, Vehicular Combat
Abilities Str 12, Dex 14, Con 13, Int 12, Wis 12, Cha 13
Background Event - Exiled
Talents Spacehound
Feats Point Blank Shot, Quick Draw, Skill Focus (Knowledge [galactic lore], Pilot), Vehicular Combat, Weapon Proficiency (pistols, simple weapons)
Skills Deception +7, Initiative +8, Knowledge (galactic lore) +12, Mechanics +7, Perception +7, Pilot +13, Use Computer +2
Possessions heavy blaster pistol, knife, comlink, flight suit, hip holster, power pack, 400 credits
Alara Drey, Naboo Handmaiden
Well, a couple days later than initially intended, but here's the first of the pregen player characters I had available for when I ran the New Jedi Order Traitor's Gambit module this past New Year's Weekend.
First things first, a couple clarifications/explanations.
These characters were built on 28 points as per the old Dawn of Defiance campaign standards, but I typically hovered around half their maximum starting credits for buying weapons and equipment, as these were supposed to be refugees fleeing the Yuuzhan Vong invaders. I didn't use that as a strict guideline, so some characters might be better off with the amount of money available for their starting gear than others.
Also, I allowed these pre-gen characters to make use of Destiny Points and the Background system from the Rebellion Era Campaign Guide, even though the RECG says not to do that. Since none of these characters have active destinies, having the benefits of a Background wasn't about to make these characters overpowered, and if anything added a neat twist or two to the majority of them.
I'm including not only the background snippet I wrote for each character, but also their individual responses to GM Chris' Three Questions, mostly done as a means to help give the players (a couple of whom had never played an RPG before, much less a Star Wars RPG) an idea of who this person was if they wanted to play the character as an actual person rather than a collection of numbers on a sheet of paper. And it worked quite well for the most part, at least from where I was standing as the GM.
While these characters were generally written with the New Jedi Order era in mind, many of them can easily be picked up and dropped into most any other era without much fuss.
So enough explanations, and on with the characters.
Alara Drey, Naboo Handmaiden (CL 2)
Mini Used - Queen Amidala, Champions of the Force 31/60
Background
Alara was born to a middle-class working family, but even then had aspirations of serving her world directly, and was overjoyed to be selected for training as one of the elite corps of Handmaidens, special agents entrusted not only with the safety of the Royal monarch but also various missions on the Queen’s behalf. The training has been difficult, but Alara is determined to persevere, and sees each setback not as a defeat, but as a chance to learn and improve herself.
The Three Questions
What Do You Love?
It may be childish, but the thing you enjoy most is music, particularly that of a cheerful and upbeat sort, and even though you are far from an accomplished musician, you often spends your free time playing various melodies on your wind-flute.
What Do You Hate?
From a young age, your parents instilled a sense of pride in Naboo’s history of democracy, to the point that you cannot stand to see those in a position of influence abuse that power for their own selfish interests.
Why Are You Aboard the Zahn Pulsar?
You were escorting a minor diplomatic functionary that had been tasked by the Queen to set-up a refugee colony to help those who had been displaced by the Vong. In spite of the assurances of the New Republic Senate liasion that the site was secure, Vong sympathizers attacked and your charge was amongst the dead. As much as you want vengeance, you have a duty to your monarch to inform her of the Senate’s treachery, even if you have to travel as a refugee to do it.
Alara Drey, Naboo Handmaiden
Medium Adult Female Human Soldier 2
Destiny 1; Force 6
Init +8; Senses Perception +7
Languages Basic, High Galactic
Defenses Ref 16 (flat-footed 13), Fort 16, Will 13
hp 41; Second Wind 14hp (2/day); Threshold 16
Speed 6 squares
Melee unarmed +3 (1d6+2) or
Ranged blaster pistol +4 (3d6+1)
Base Atk +2; Grp +4
Atk Options Point Blank Shot, Precise Shot
Special Actions Tough as Nails
Abilities Str 13, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 12, Wis 12, Cha 11
Background Occupation – Politics
Talents Tough as Nails
Feats Armor Proficiency (light, medium), Martial Arts I, Point Blank Shot, Precise Shot, Weapon Proficiency (pistols, rifles, simple weapons)
Skills Deception +3, Gather Information +3, Initiative +8, Perception +7, Persuasion +6, Pilot +8, Treat Injury +7
Possessions blaster pistol, comlink (encrypted short-range), credit chip (200 credits), FastFlash medpac, hip holster, liquid cable dispenser (30m) with grappling hook, Handmaiden battle dress
First things first, a couple clarifications/explanations.
These characters were built on 28 points as per the old Dawn of Defiance campaign standards, but I typically hovered around half their maximum starting credits for buying weapons and equipment, as these were supposed to be refugees fleeing the Yuuzhan Vong invaders. I didn't use that as a strict guideline, so some characters might be better off with the amount of money available for their starting gear than others.
Also, I allowed these pre-gen characters to make use of Destiny Points and the Background system from the Rebellion Era Campaign Guide, even though the RECG says not to do that. Since none of these characters have active destinies, having the benefits of a Background wasn't about to make these characters overpowered, and if anything added a neat twist or two to the majority of them.
I'm including not only the background snippet I wrote for each character, but also their individual responses to GM Chris' Three Questions, mostly done as a means to help give the players (a couple of whom had never played an RPG before, much less a Star Wars RPG) an idea of who this person was if they wanted to play the character as an actual person rather than a collection of numbers on a sheet of paper. And it worked quite well for the most part, at least from where I was standing as the GM.
While these characters were generally written with the New Jedi Order era in mind, many of them can easily be picked up and dropped into most any other era without much fuss.
So enough explanations, and on with the characters.
Alara Drey, Naboo Handmaiden (CL 2)
Mini Used - Queen Amidala, Champions of the Force 31/60
Background
Alara was born to a middle-class working family, but even then had aspirations of serving her world directly, and was overjoyed to be selected for training as one of the elite corps of Handmaidens, special agents entrusted not only with the safety of the Royal monarch but also various missions on the Queen’s behalf. The training has been difficult, but Alara is determined to persevere, and sees each setback not as a defeat, but as a chance to learn and improve herself.
The Three Questions
What Do You Love?
It may be childish, but the thing you enjoy most is music, particularly that of a cheerful and upbeat sort, and even though you are far from an accomplished musician, you often spends your free time playing various melodies on your wind-flute.
What Do You Hate?
From a young age, your parents instilled a sense of pride in Naboo’s history of democracy, to the point that you cannot stand to see those in a position of influence abuse that power for their own selfish interests.
Why Are You Aboard the Zahn Pulsar?
You were escorting a minor diplomatic functionary that had been tasked by the Queen to set-up a refugee colony to help those who had been displaced by the Vong. In spite of the assurances of the New Republic Senate liasion that the site was secure, Vong sympathizers attacked and your charge was amongst the dead. As much as you want vengeance, you have a duty to your monarch to inform her of the Senate’s treachery, even if you have to travel as a refugee to do it.
Alara Drey, Naboo Handmaiden
Medium Adult Female Human Soldier 2
Destiny 1; Force 6
Init +8; Senses Perception +7
Languages Basic, High Galactic
Defenses Ref 16 (flat-footed 13), Fort 16, Will 13
hp 41; Second Wind 14hp (2/day); Threshold 16
Speed 6 squares
Melee unarmed +3 (1d6+2) or
Ranged blaster pistol +4 (3d6+1)
Base Atk +2; Grp +4
Atk Options Point Blank Shot, Precise Shot
Special Actions Tough as Nails
Abilities Str 13, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 12, Wis 12, Cha 11
Background Occupation – Politics
Talents Tough as Nails
Feats Armor Proficiency (light, medium), Martial Arts I, Point Blank Shot, Precise Shot, Weapon Proficiency (pistols, rifles, simple weapons)
Skills Deception +3, Gather Information +3, Initiative +8, Perception +7, Persuasion +6, Pilot +8, Treat Injury +7
Possessions blaster pistol, comlink (encrypted short-range), credit chip (200 credits), FastFlash medpac, hip holster, liquid cable dispenser (30m) with grappling hook, Handmaiden battle dress
January 14, 2012
My Big Fat List List of Star Wars Saga Edition NPCs
A couple of very minor tweaks to my NPC file, such including an extra hyperlink or two, namely to the previously mentioned D20 Radio Network, and expanding the bookmark for the Fringe chapter to allow you to jump to a section based on the first letter of the NPC,such as clicking on the Fringe "W" bookmark if you're looking for a Wookiee NPC.
The new version can be downloaded here:
Donovan Morningfire's Big List of Star Wars Saga Edition NPCs
The new version can be downloaded here:
Donovan Morningfire's Big List of Star Wars Saga Edition NPCs
January 13, 2012
On the Horizon
I'm going to try and focus a bit more on content over the next couple weeks rather than the general ramblings seen before.
First up on the docket will be various pre-gen characters, starting with the 8 pre-gen characters I used when running the Threat Detected NJO Traitor's Gambit this past New Year's weekend.
So stay tuned.
First up on the docket will be various pre-gen characters, starting with the 8 pre-gen characters I used when running the Threat Detected NJO Traitor's Gambit this past New Year's weekend.
So stay tuned.
January 12, 2012
Brushing off the dust & SWRPG resources
Been a while since I really did anything here. Granted, most of that was due to not being able to access the internet from home, but that's an issue that has finally been put to bed.
Just thought I'd give mention to a couple of really great Star Wars RPG resources, particularly if you're of a Saga Edition mindset. I've got links to most of these places listed as Favorite Links, but thought I'd go into a bit of reason why some of these are listed as being favorites.
One of the first, and best in my view, are the d20 Radio Forums, home to an active Star Wars RPG forum that is both polite and helpful, something the WotC Star Wars forums have had a lot of trouble with in the past. It's also home to the Order 66 podcast, the first podcast totally devoted to Star Wars Saga Edition. At 150 episodes, it's a long-runner, and won a well-deserved ENnie back in 2009. They've frequently had various designers and developers as guest hosts, including such esteemed folks as Rodney Thompson and Sterling Hershey, as well as map maker extraordinaire Christopher West and even Sam Witwer, unabashed geek and co-star of Sy-Fy's Being Human.
Speaking of Christopher West, this fine upstanding gentlemen has been producing excellent quality maps for RPGs and Minis alike for many a year, and has his own webstore at Maps of Mastery. He frequently does Kickstarter projects for new maps, which is a great way to ensure you get a map you like by helping it to be funded.
Sterling Hershey is considerate enough to take time out of his week to discuss many a thing pertaining to Star Wars, many times providing insight from his years as an SWRPG author for every Star Wars RPG to date. You can find all sorts of neat crunch on his blog as well, ranging from new vehicle stats (including a bunch for vehicles found as part of various Christopher West maps) to new species write-ups, or even just a set of links to provide ideas for GMs running a Star Wars game. It's always worth a look.
For the other major Star Wars Saga Edition podcast, look no further than Threat Detected. Devoted not only to SWSE, but also to recording the live play of the Dawn of Defiance campaign offered by Wizards of the Coast during the run of SWSE. Garrett aka barefoottourguide and his crew are very entertaining to listen to, having a humor about it akin to that found in the Original Trilogy with the banter and interaction between the various players and their characters. That and Garrett also offers segments containing tips, suggestions, and even references for Star Wars GMs both new and experienced.
For those of you with a hankering for Clone Wars material that the TV series and Clone Wars Campaign Guide just can't satisfy, you need look no further than Fandom Comics. These guys have spent the better part of the past several years putting together what may very well be the definitive fan sourcebook, covering just about anything and everything to do with the Clone Wars, covering both animated series and the various EU novels, as well as offering a plethora of optional rules.
Speaking of informational resources, if you're a Star Wars fan and you don't have Wookieepedia bookmarked... why the blazes not?! Seriously, if you're curious about some odd tidbit of SW lore or want to make sure you've got your facts straight about some bit character that's making a cameo appearance in your game, Wookieepedia is bound to have all the information you'd need and then some. Granted, the articles about major characters such as Anakin, Luke, Obi-Wan, Han Solo, Leia, and so on get pretty dense given all the trouble they get into, but there's still good information to be had on all but the most esoteric aspects of Star Wars lore.
Just thought I'd give mention to a couple of really great Star Wars RPG resources, particularly if you're of a Saga Edition mindset. I've got links to most of these places listed as Favorite Links, but thought I'd go into a bit of reason why some of these are listed as being favorites.
One of the first, and best in my view, are the d20 Radio Forums, home to an active Star Wars RPG forum that is both polite and helpful, something the WotC Star Wars forums have had a lot of trouble with in the past. It's also home to the Order 66 podcast, the first podcast totally devoted to Star Wars Saga Edition. At 150 episodes, it's a long-runner, and won a well-deserved ENnie back in 2009. They've frequently had various designers and developers as guest hosts, including such esteemed folks as Rodney Thompson and Sterling Hershey, as well as map maker extraordinaire Christopher West and even Sam Witwer, unabashed geek and co-star of Sy-Fy's Being Human.
Speaking of Christopher West, this fine upstanding gentlemen has been producing excellent quality maps for RPGs and Minis alike for many a year, and has his own webstore at Maps of Mastery. He frequently does Kickstarter projects for new maps, which is a great way to ensure you get a map you like by helping it to be funded.
Sterling Hershey is considerate enough to take time out of his week to discuss many a thing pertaining to Star Wars, many times providing insight from his years as an SWRPG author for every Star Wars RPG to date. You can find all sorts of neat crunch on his blog as well, ranging from new vehicle stats (including a bunch for vehicles found as part of various Christopher West maps) to new species write-ups, or even just a set of links to provide ideas for GMs running a Star Wars game. It's always worth a look.
For the other major Star Wars Saga Edition podcast, look no further than Threat Detected. Devoted not only to SWSE, but also to recording the live play of the Dawn of Defiance campaign offered by Wizards of the Coast during the run of SWSE. Garrett aka barefoottourguide and his crew are very entertaining to listen to, having a humor about it akin to that found in the Original Trilogy with the banter and interaction between the various players and their characters. That and Garrett also offers segments containing tips, suggestions, and even references for Star Wars GMs both new and experienced.
For those of you with a hankering for Clone Wars material that the TV series and Clone Wars Campaign Guide just can't satisfy, you need look no further than Fandom Comics. These guys have spent the better part of the past several years putting together what may very well be the definitive fan sourcebook, covering just about anything and everything to do with the Clone Wars, covering both animated series and the various EU novels, as well as offering a plethora of optional rules.
Speaking of informational resources, if you're a Star Wars fan and you don't have Wookieepedia bookmarked... why the blazes not?! Seriously, if you're curious about some odd tidbit of SW lore or want to make sure you've got your facts straight about some bit character that's making a cameo appearance in your game, Wookieepedia is bound to have all the information you'd need and then some. Granted, the articles about major characters such as Anakin, Luke, Obi-Wan, Han Solo, Leia, and so on get pretty dense given all the trouble they get into, but there's still good information to be had on all but the most esoteric aspects of Star Wars lore.
January 5, 2012
A useful SWRPG tool
Courtesy of d20 Radio forum member Toy Yoda, here's a nifty little widget for use in your Star Wars RPG games, regardless of whether you play d6, d20, Saga, or some homebrew version.
It's a form-fillable Acrobat file in the form of the datapads used in the now-defunct Star Wars Galaxies MMO, with a selection of images to be put in the top corner. Having done datapad hand-outs in the past, particularly for my Rebellion era Blue Zephyrs series of modules, I really wish I'd had this available back then.
Direct link:
http://www.mediafire.com/?i7a7e5a8azlhm82
D20 Radio Forum thread link:
http://www.d20radio.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=3&t=9184
It's a form-fillable Acrobat file in the form of the datapads used in the now-defunct Star Wars Galaxies MMO, with a selection of images to be put in the top corner. Having done datapad hand-outs in the past, particularly for my Rebellion era Blue Zephyrs series of modules, I really wish I'd had this available back then.
Direct link:
http://www.mediafire.com/?i7a7e5a8azlhm82
D20 Radio Forum thread link:
http://www.d20radio.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=3&t=9184
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