Legends of Lanasia

New Talent Rules

2011-01-02T12:36:00.001-07:00

Action Type Replacement

Instead of rolling using one of the listed Aspects, you will roll using the Talent. These Talents should be specialized versions of existing skills (fencing for instance). Finally, the Talent roll should be modified based on the following table:

Talent Scope Modifier
Specialized (Talent can only be used in limited situations)	Roll and add Talent Level to Ambition or Caution (decide after you roll)
Broad (Talent is limited, but could still be worked into many situations)	Roll and add Talent Level to Ambition or Caution (decide before you roll)
General (Talent can be used in almost any situation)	Roll and add Talent Level to Ambition or Caution (decide when you get this Talent)

Note: Consider the scope of the Talent from the perspective of the character’s profession. For instance, Fencing might be specialized for a Librarian and General for a Mercenary.

Example: Fencing – This Talent comes into play any time a character is wielding a sword in combat. For most characters, this would be considered Broad. So the character would roll two dice, add their Fencing Talent to either Ambition or Caution (decide before we roll).

Re-Rolls

The level of your Talent will allow a specific number of re-rolls to an existing skill over a specific amount of time. Typically this type of Talent allows one re-roll per level of Talent. Base the way the re-rolls are handled from the following table

Talent Scope Modifier
Specialized (Talent can only be used in limited situations)	Character can use whichever roll (old or new) that is more beneficial
Broad (Talent is limited, but could still be worked into many situations)	Character must take the new roll, even if it is worse
General (Talent can be used in almost any situation)	Character must take the new roll, even if it is worse.

Note: Consider the scope of the Talent from the perspective of the character’s profession. For instance, Pottery would be General for an Artisan and Specialized for a Librarian.

Example: Disarm – Characters use this Talent to overcome traps. Since this is so specialized, characters can re-roll any attempt to detect or disarm traps and take whichever roll is more beneficial a number of times per day equal to their Disarm Talent.

Non-Aspect Bonuses

A Talent might affect things that cannot be influenced by Aspects (Friends for example). Use the table below to see what values can be affected by which Talents:

Talent Scope Modifier
Specialized (Talent can only be used in limited situations)	Can be used in any roll and includes a (+2 ambition/-2 Caution and -2 Ambition/+2 Caution Action Types)
Broad (Talent is limited, but could still be worked into many situations)	Can be used for any roll.
General (Talent can be used in almost any situation)	Can be used to modify any non-conflict roll

Note: Consider the scope of the Talent from the perspective of the character’s profession. For instance, Dueling would be General for a Gladiator and Specialized for a Librarian.

Example: Dueling – This Talent allows the character to add their Talent to their Reputation when facing an opponent one on one.

Luck Replacement

A Talent might act like luck point in regard to an existing skill. Use the table below to determine how these pseudo-luck points can be used.

Talent Scope Modifier
Specialized (Talent can only be used in limited situations)	Character can declare how much luck is being spent before or after the dice are rolled. Each point spent turns a failure to a success or adds a number of points to the roll equal to the level of the Talent
Broad (Talent is limited, but could still be worked into many situations)	Character can declare how much luck is being spent before or after the dice are rolled
General (Talent can be used in almost any situation)	Character must declare how much luck is being spent before the dice are rolled

Note: Consider the scope of the Talent from the perspective of the character’s profession. For instance, Pilot would be General for a Sailor and Specialized for a Librarian.

Example: Diplomacy – This Talent allows the character to use their Talent level as Luck points on all Persuasion rolls. This Talent is Broad, the character can decide before or after the dice are rolled.

Build and Spend

Build Action Types for this Talent and then by them with your Talent Levels (similar to how Magic works).

Destiny Points

2010-12-29T10:39:00.001-07:00

So,
This is the most significant non-conflict mechanic in my new fantasy game Legends of Lanasia.
Destiny Points are designed to be the players' reward for good play.
This is defined as:
- Engaging in the GM's contributions
- Entertaining the group
- Contributing to the story being told at the table.
I have very specific ideas of what these look like, but for the purposes of brevity, I will keep it short and sweet.
So, the Destiny Points do not have a direct mechanical effect (you cannot spend them to alter a die roll or re-roll or anything like that).
Their only use is for the player to ask for their reward in the form of story currency. The list of uses is as follows:
1) Introduce an event to the story
2) Introduce a plot twist
3) Introduce a sub-plot
4) Introduce a new NPC
5) Introduce a relationship with an existing NPC
6) Introduce a sub-quest
7) Introduce am item to the scene (this might be a magic sword, pile of gold or something more important to the PC like their mother's locket).

It is important to understand that once the Destiny Point is spent, something in the game will change. And the player spending it should determine what that change is.
I am going to let players besides the GM and the player spending the Destiny Point to veto, but only on two conditions:
1) Genre conventions (like, maybe they can find a golem instead of a robot)
2) Disruptive (the sub-quest takes them halfway across the world when there is a lot happening locally already)
Once that is out of the way, there are two pairs of questions that need to be answered:
1) "How big is the change?" or "How much effort does the character still need to exert?"
So, the player has to be able to answer one of these questions, Then the other is answered automatically based on their answer. So, if the change they want is earth shattering, then the player will have to spend a monumental amount of effort.
2) "What is the Mechanical effect?" or "How much effort has the character exerted?"
Again, the player answers one and the other is answered automatically. If the character already put a lot of effort to achieve this change, then the mechanical impact should be big as well..

So, to break this down to a step-by-step procedure, this is how it goes:
1) What type of change?
2) What is the change?
3) Exerted/Size? (questions 1 above)
4) Effort/Mechanics (questions 2 above)
5) Agreement (the players all think it is fun/fair and it is incorporated inot the story being told at the table)

So, what do you guys think, does this look fair and/or fun?

Character Creation

2010-12-19T19:21:00.001-07:00

Character Creation

Come up with a basic character concept, what is the character you will play like?
Name - What is your character’s name?
Origin - What Nation was your character raised in?
Talent - What is your character’s special Talent?
Talent Level - What level is that Talent at? Choose between 1 and 6. It us used to determine the level of effectiveness for your character’s Talent, as well as some other things (e.g., Friends, Enemies, Luck, Reputation and Wealth).
Set Friends, Enemies, Luck, Reputation and Wealth to one.
Destiny Points - Subtract your Character’s Talent Level from seven, these are your character’s Destiny Points. This will also determine how many skills they will start with.
Background Points - Multiply your character’s Talent Points by three. After that is done, subtract one. That number is how many Background points your character has.
Childhood - Choose a background, select a skill from each Aspect and spend Background Points to start with more Friends if you like.
Early Schooling - Choose a background, select your Destiny in Skills and spend Background Points to start with more Enemies.
Professional Training - Choose a background, select your Destiny in Skills and spend Background Points to start with more Wealth.
Experience - Choose a background, select your Destiny in Skills and spend Background Points to start with more Reputation.
Determine Luck - However many Background Points you have remaining, these are your Luck Points. If you have more than 6 left, the excess points add to the number of Enemies you have.
Determine if your Reputation is positive or Negative.
Select Friends and Enemies. Each Friend and Enemy must have a Name (it can be that of an NPC introduced by the GM, a PC or you can use that slot to introduce a new character to the setting) and an origin (why are they your friends or enemies?).
If none of the PCs are one of your Friends, create another type of relationship with a PC.
Describe their personality
Describe their Motivation
Describe their Goal
You are done!

New conflict Rules

2010-12-12T19:40:00.003-07:00

Below is diagram of how a conflict will go down in LoL.

2010-12-12T19:36:00.001-07:00

Steampunk Crescendo is at the Editors, soon to be released.
Now, I am circling back to Legends of Lanasia!

What is going on?

2009-08-21T22:05:00.001-06:00

What follows is an incomplete list of some of the major players of the day in alphabetical order.
Legend:
Factions: These are subgroups of the Faction. Some serve as an arm of the main group, others are similar groups with similar motivations or agendas.
How are they changing the world for the better: This is an objective description of how this group is trying to improve the world as it changes around them.
How are they oppressing Dhampirs: Directly or indirectly every group is taking actions that affect the Dhampirs.
Knowledge of vampire origin: This reflects whether the group's leaders have an idea of the link between Dhampirs and Vampires. The entire group may or may not know and individual members may always be an exception.
Compatible with Vampires: Most people in the world of Steampunk Crescendo know about the existence of vampires. This description generally indicates if the group is opposed to the existence of vampires and/or their agendas.
Attitudes towards Magi: Some groups harbor a prejudice against Magi and their associates. Again, individual members may prove to be an exception.
Acceptance of others: This entry indicates the group's general attitudes towards outsiders.
Allies: This is a list of groups that are allied with or at least compatible with this group. Again, some individuals may stray from the group's general preferences though. Allies are listed from strongest, truest alliance at the beginning of the list with weaker alliances and mere compatibilities listed last.
Enemies: Again, the most hated enemies are listed first while the end of the list might just be a group that is incompatible with this group.

Boomers - Prospectors, Claim Jumpers and Entrepreneurs. Men and women that have felt the winds of change and adapted accordingly.
This group is only loosely organized into small cliques in various boom towns around the world. they have no central authority, but most boomers will stick up for one another when push comes to shove.
Boomers are superstitious and believe the rumors that Vampires are the dead risen from the grave in order to exact revenge. Many keep talismans to protect them when they are out of town and easy prey.
Boomers will organize a posse if they find another Boomer drained of blood or a grave opened after it has been consecrated.
They generally distrust Magi, viewing them as an unknown force.
Most Boomers get along with others, so long as they are not competition.

Factions:
Prospectors - These are honest laborers. Trying to stake a claim and make their fortune. Between Robber barons, Big Government and claim jumpers, few ever even survive.
Claim Jumpers - Claim Jumpers are notorious for profiting off of the hard work of others. They will scout out boom towns, and wait for someone else to strike it rich, then steal their claim and sell it to a robber baron. While these are very solitary and territorial criminals, they will protect each other from outsiders.
Entrepreneurs - Several business opportunities present themselves when a town goes boom. If there is gold, someone has to supply the canteens, pans (for panning for gold) and maps. That is where the Entrepreneur comes in, they make an honest profit off of other boomers.

How are they changing the world for the better: Boomers are adapting to change and bringing their discoveries to the common man for all to know.
How are they oppressing Dhampirs: Unless a Dhampir proves themselves to be a true Boomer, other Boomers will refuse to do business or share any information with any Dhampir they encounter.
Knowledge of vampire origin: Ignorant
Compatible with Vampires: Opposed
Attitudes towards Magi: Dislike
Acceptance of others: Interested
Allies: Wild Bunch, Royal Society, Republicans, Cabal
Enemies: Rail Barons, Church of England, Coursers, Illuminati, Mafia

Cabal - Group of Sorcerers and advisers. They trade in knowledge of magic and aid each other in times of need.
This group specializes in learning new and old rituals. It's hard to Imagine a productive member not knowing about the Curse of the Magi.
A member of the Cabal would never knowingly teach a Ritual to a vampire, and they would defend their fellow Kabbalah worshipper from any Vampire threats.
Most Magi distrust Cabalists, this distrust is returned in kind.
Most Cabalists have a natural curiosity about outsiders.
Factions:
Sorcerers - These are the most popular and well known Cabalists. Bilalama and others paved the way for open practice of magic and continue to crusade for the acceptance of Sorcerers in every element of society.
Viziers - A group of Cabalists that want to avoid the attention of outsiders. They work in the shadows and whisper in the ears of great men and women.
Sentinels - The defenders of the Cabal. These are the officers and the first to respond to any threat to a fellow member.

How are they changing the world for the better: They are working to integrate magic into all segments of society.
How are they oppressing Dhampirs: They would withhold their support, knowledge and training from any Dhampir who does not defer to their mystic talents.
Knowledge of vampire origin: Know
Compatible with Vampires: Opposed
Attitudes towards Magi: Dislike
Acceptance of others: Interested
Allies: Wicca, Order of the Magi, Trailblazers, Boomers
Enemies: Mafia, Drakes, Regulators, Magicians, Rail Barons

Church of England - In this era, the Anglican Church is aggressively expanding. People feel like they need help and the Church is there to provide it.
Some members of the Church know about the Ritual. Mostly those that have taken an interest in the Magi or the mystic arts.
The Church is a place of forgiveness and redemption. all are welcome and none will be turned away that are willing to accept God into their hearts.
Most members of the church are accepting of all comers. Even those that aren't have grown to understand civilized society and adapt in some way to it.
Factions:
Vicars - Leaders of the church. Their only goal is to protect the rights and reputation of the Church. They are very politically connected and politically motivated.
Lay-followers - These are the regular members of the Church. Their primary activities center around promoting attendance to services, fund raising and fellowship.
Evangelists - This is a small arm of the Church that is recruiting new members, building new churches and getting the word out about the Church of England. Many are zealots and unpredictable when confronted.

How are they changing the world for the better: They are bringing hope to anyone around the world that will listen to what they have to say.
How are they oppressing Dhampirs: The Church of England will only accept Dhampirs if they replace the code of the Magi with the tenets of the Church.
Knowledge of vampire origin: Know
Compatible with Vampires: Not opposed
Attitudes towards Magi: Accepting
Acceptance of others: Interested
Allies: Rail Barons, Trailblazers, Order of the Magi, Drakes
Enemies: Wild Bunch, Boomers, Magicians, Regulators, Wicca

Drakes - A group of Vampires sworn to protect ordinary people. Even though they have turned, they try to use their powers to defend those weaker than themselves.
Most Drakes know nothing about the origin of the Vampire curse, even those versed in the mystic arts. Some haven't even made the connection between temptation and the manifesting of powers.
Many Drakes will attempt to mentor vampires they meet. Recruiting them into the Ordinul Dragonului. Even if the newly met vampire refuses to join, they will be supported and respected, so long as they do not take advantage of the weak and defenseless.
As Magi and Dhampir, Drakes do all they can to ease the suffering of their brethren.
Drakes have no fear of outsiders. In fact, they have learned that the more they interact with them, the more they learn how better to protect them.
Factions:
Impalers - The most powerful vampires form into groups of Impalers and take on the most challenging enemies. Cross them at your own risk.
Apex - These are the scouts of the Drakes. They look everywhere, leaving no stone unturned. Many Stalkers die for their curiousness.
Drakelings - New Drakes who have not found their niche. Most are harmless, except for those that have something to prove.

How are they changing the world for the better: They are defending the weak from the strong and leading by example.
How are they oppressing Dhampirs: While they may be working to protect the Dhampir, they are also coddling the Dhampir. Preventing them from developing their own strength and standing as a beacon of tempation to those who might stray from the path of the Code of the Magi.
Knowledge of vampire origin: Ignorant
Compatible with Vampires: Not opposed
Attitudes towards Magi: Accepting
Acceptance of others: Interested
Allies: Mafia, Republicans, Royal Society, Church of England
Enemies: Wicca, Cabal, Illuminati, Coursers, Wild Bunch

Illuminati - A Secret society dedicated to discovering the true nature of creation.
Only the most lowly novice does not know about the the Curse of the Magi.
Vampires destroy precious life and therefore, knowledge. Illuminati will oppose vampires however possible.
The natural curiosity of a member of the Illuminati will overcome any reservations that they might have about a Dhampir.
Members of the Illuminati have no patience for the unenlightened.
Factrions:
Masons - Masons are only interested in influence. They will manipulate members and non-members to increase that influence. do not cross a Mason.
Vanguard - Members who are on the one true path. They are only interested in learning the true nature of the universe.
Pretenders - These Members follow the Illuminati blindly. Their lack of curiosity and insight prevent them from gaining anything from their membership.

How are they changing the world for the better: They are preserving knowledge and sharing it with those who they feel can benefit from it. There is no nobler cause.
How are they oppressing Dhampirs: Many members have taken knowledge from the Magi. But few pass any knowledge back on to other Dhampir.
Knowledge of vampire origin: Know
Compatible with Vampires: Opposed
Attitudes towards Magi: Accepting
Acceptance of others: None
Allies: Order of the Magi, Wicca, Rail Barons, Magicians
Enemies: Republicans, Regulators, Drakes, Boomers, Trailblazers

Mafia - Organized Crime Syndicate. The mafia is inserting their influence into every town that is benefiting from the new economy.
Few mafioso know or care about the origin of vampires.
Mafioso don't care whether vampires live or die, so long as they pay, just like everyone else.
They accept outsiders, as long as they do what they are told.
The mafia is a closed group, they do not accept or try and understand what is in the minds of non-members.
Factions:
Old Guard - These mafioso try to uphold the traditions that make the mafia strong.
Reformers - Young men who want to change and improve the mafia
Thrill seekers - These mafioso only care about the thrill of breaking the law.

How are they changing the world for the better: They can protect an area from becoming completely lawless.
How are they oppressing Dhampirs: They rob, defraud, extort and pimp them, just like anyone else.
Knowledge of vampire origin: Ignorant
Compatible with Vampires: Not opposed
Attitudes towards Magi: Accepting
Acceptance of others: None
Allies: Drakes, Regulators, Magicians, Rail Barons
Enemies: Cabal, Wicca, Order of the Magi, Trailblazers, Boomers

Coursers - Vampires dedicated to feeding on the weak. Some feel that it will end the curse sooner, but most just revel in the thrill of it all.
Some of these vampires know about the curse and think that feeding on the weak will overcome the curse sooner.
As laissez faire individuals, they give little attention to the activities of other vampires.
They despise those Dhampir that still try and remain true to the Code of the Magi.
Coursers see all humans as food.
Factrions:
Stalkers - They get a thrill from the hunt.
Bloodfiends - Take part in wanton acts of destruction upon the weak and defenseless.
Assassins - Gain money for hunting their targets.

How are they changing the world for the better: If the rumor is true, they could be ending the curse sooner. And either way, they are ensuring that only the strong survive.
How are they oppressing Dhampirs: They hunt and kill the Dhampir, just like everyone else.
Knowledge of vampire origin: Know
Compatible with Vampires: Not opposed
Attitudes towards Magi: Dislike
Acceptance of others: None
Allies: Trailblazers, Rail Barons, Wicca, Regulators
Enemies: Royal Society, Magicians, Boomers, Drakes, Order of the Magi

Rail Barons - A monopolistic conspiracy of industrial leaders. Of course, this does not just refer to rail tycoons. But all industrialists who are making millions off of the sweat of poor people.
Some robber barons, or their advisers, know about the secret Curse of the Magi.
Robber barons do not care if the people they do business with are vampires.
They don't know or care about the Magi.
They do not look to cultivate relationships with outsiders, unless there is a profit in it.
Factions:
Rail Barons - They are buying land and working indentured servants in order to build their empire.
Oil Barons - The potential for oil is just being discovered and these men are exploiting that fact.
Real Estate Moguls - Sometimes they take advantage of others' misfortunes, other times, they create that misfortune in order to expand their empires.

How are they changing the world for the better: Various Robber Barons are responsible for economic revitalization as well as building universities, libraries and hospitals.
How are they oppressing Dhampirs: They rob and enslave the Dhampir people just like they do all people.
Knowledge of vampire origin: Know
Compatible with Vampires: Not opposed
Attitudes towards Magi: Accepting
Acceptance of others: None
Allies: Church of England, Coursers, Illuminati, Mafia
Enemies: Boomers, Wild Bunch, Royal Society, Republicans, Cabal

Regulators - This is a group of Ex-military soldiers, Bounty hunters, Mercenaries & hired guns. They find work however they can, legal or otherwise.
They don't know or care about vampires.
Regulators see Magi as encroaching on their turf.
They do not have any regard for anyone that is not a member.
Factions:
Mercenaries - These hired guns don't care about power or politics, just money.
Bounty Hunters - Some do it for Justice, some do it for the thrill, but all of them do it for the money.
Pinkertons - These people use their military knowledge, connections and power to stop criminals, for money.

How are they changing the world for the better: They are professionals and keep innocent bystanders as safe as reasonably possible.
How are they oppressing Dhampirs: They do violence against the Dhampir as well as others.
Knowledge of vampire origin: Ignorant
Compatible with Vampires: Not opposed
Attitudes towards Magi: Dislike
Acceptance of others: None
Allies: Republicans, Mafia, Wild Bunch, Coursers
Enemies: Order of the Magi, Illuminati, Cabal, Church of England, Royal Society

Republicans - Inner circle of the Government. They work to serve their own agenda at the expense of all others.
The government has no way to discover the nature of the link between vampires and the Dhampir.
Republicans are responsible for the welfare of all members of the state, including vampires.
Magi follow the Code of the Magi above all others. This view is frowned upon by government officials.
Factions:
Brokers - These Republicans work behind the Scenes for their own personal gain.
Federalists - These politicians favor big national governments with strong, centralized authority.
Democrats - The local government workers fight to expand the rights of the smaller local governments (i.e., states, provinces, counties, cities, etc.).

How are they changing the world for the better: They make the government stronger, protect the people and the public safety.
How are they oppressing Dhampirs: They aggressively legislate and persecute any who do not conform to their expectations.
Knowledge of vampire origin: Ignorant
Compatible with Vampires: Not opposed
Attitudes towards Magi: Dislike
Acceptance of others: Interested
Allies: Regulators, Drakes, Boomers, Trailblazers
Enemies: Illuminati, Order of the Magi, Wicca, Rail Barons, Magicians

Royal Societies - Inventors, Scholars and Scientists. These groups have existed for over 200 years. It is a meeting of minds that probe into the mysteries of the universe.
The various Royal Societies around the world are dedicated to science. Few members have magical knowledge and fewer still have looked into rituals if the Magi.
Members of the Royal Societies see the destruction wrought by vampires as an anathema. The destruction of people is the same as the destruction of the knowledge and potential that those people have.
The various Royal Societies are accepting of the Magi as they represent another source of knowledge.
Of course, they are just as accepting of all others, not just the Dhampir.
Factions:
Fleur de Lis - These are the members that see the Science as merely discovering God's designs. Their influence is quite significant. In fact, the Coat of Arms of the Royal Society of London contains no less than 16 Fleur de Lis.
Inventors - This is a group of scientists who work in workshops and labs across the globe. They accept funding and feedback from the Societies in exchange for sharing their discoveries with the Societies.
Archivists - Their only mission is to collect, organize and catalog knowledge. They attempt to influence the Royal Societies, and politics in general, by their strategic sharing and withholding of scientific knowledge.

How are they changing the world for the better: Their goal is to inspire innovation and scientific discovery.
How are they oppressing Dhampirs: Their effort and charity is not interested in magic or Magi.
Knowledge of vampire origin: Ignorant
Compatible with Vampires: Opposed
Attitudes towards Magi: Accepting
Acceptance of others: Interested
Allies: Magicians, Boomers, Drakes, Order of the Magi
Enemies: Coursers, Trailblazers, Rail Barons, Wicca, Regulators

Magicians - Group of Magi who are trying to affect changes in order to adapt with the changing world.
These Magi have no interest in the past. Few have even thought about the origin of vampires, much less know about it.
Vampires are associated with all that is against the Code of the Magi. Therefore, the Magicians are opposed to all vampires without question or reserve.
Still, the Magicians are accepting of all Dhampir that at least attempt to remain true to the Code of the Magi.
Magicians have no patience for outsiders.
Factions:
The Fraternity - This is the Heart of the Magicians. they look to the future and try and train the next generation the skills to prosper.
Guiding Light - Magi that work to change traditions of their people. They meet resistance from every side, but they will not be deterred.
Watchdogs - Reformers dedicated to the Code of the Magi of the Magicians.

How are they changing the world for the better: They are trying to change the world and the Code of the Magi in a way that will survive this ever-changing world.
How are they oppressing Dhampirs: Their unflinching drive to change is uncomprinising and totalitarian.
Knowledge of vampire origin: Ignorant
Compatible with Vampires: Opposed
Attitudes towards Magi: Accepting
Acceptance of others: None
Allies: Royal Society, Wild Bunch, Mafia, Illuminati
Enemies: Trailblazers, Coursers, Church of England, Cabal, Republicans

Order of the Magi - A group of Magi who are trying to preserve the old ways.
The learned of the Order of the Magi know of the Curse of the Magi.
All vampires have broken the Code of the Magi, therefore all vampires must be scorned.
All members of the Order of the Magi are welcoming and supportive of all individuals who follow the Code of the Magi.
Most Dhampir must work with outsiders in their daily lives. The Order of the Magi are no exception.
Factions:
Arch-Magi - Every generation of Magi has Arch-Magi. Not all of them are related to those cursed over 5,000 years ago. True faith in the Code of the Magi give the Arch-Magi humble respect.
Healers - These Magi follow the old ways and rely on them to protect those that ask for their help.
Guardians of Asha - Those assigned to stand judgment of the Magi. these Magi are the wisest, strongest and most clever of their communities.

How are they changing the world for the better: They are preserving Magi tradition and helping all of those who they can benefit.
How are they oppressing Dhampirs: Their rigid enforcement of tradition prevents the Dhampir from adapting to the ever-changing world.
Knowledge of vampire origin: Know
Compatible with Vampires: Opposed
Attitudes towards Magi: Accepting
Acceptance of others: Interested
Allies: Illuminati, Cabal, Church of England, Royal society
Enemies: Regulators, Republicans, Mafia, Wild Bunch, Coursers

Trailblazers - Elite Military Officers working to create and maintain a Military Industrial Complex. They just want to safeguard their homeland with the best men, training and technology.
Only the most elite members of the Trailblazers know of the true origin of Vampires. But the hierarchical nature of the Trailblazers assure that all actions of their members are influenced by this knowledge.
Trailblazers hope that, some day, Vampires will take up arms in the names of their armed forces.
Trailblazers dislike all Dhampir that dislike them.
Defending civilians and cooperative Dhampir is the only guiding light for the Trailblazers.
Factions:
Dividers - These architects of the future of the military see their efforts through the lens of technology alone. Men and training are only needed to make the technology work.
Drillers - They work tirelessly to improve the training of military personnel.
Scouts - These Trailblazers are always on the look out for new talent.

How are they changing the world for the better: They defend their home lands from foreign aggression.
How are they oppressing Dhampirs: They have no regard for Dhampir people, customs or traditions. Only military customs and traditions.
Knowledge of vampire origin: Know
Compatible with Vampires: Not opposed
Attitudes towards Magi: Dislike
Acceptance of others: Interested
Allies: Coursers, Church of England, Cabal, Republicans
Enemies: Magicians, Royal Society, Wild Bunch, Mafia, Illuminati

Wicca - A nature worship cult imbued with magic powers. They believe in the equality of all beings.
Even if only in their hearts, all Wicca know of the terrible price the Magi paid all those many millenniums ago.
Vampires upset the natural equality of all beings. Wicca oppose this sort of imbalance.
Just like other outsiders, the Dhampir change the nature of the world around them in order to improve their lives. This, the Wicca cannot stand for.
Factions:
Witches - These Wicca foster a dark image and spread heretical rumors in order to elevate themselves above other people.
Druids - These Wicca live in the wild and commune with nature. Beware their wrath.
Bruja - Urban Wicca, they dwell among the cities and try to influence the city dwellers towards a more natural course.

How are they changing the world for the better: The are protecting natures bounty.
How are they oppressing Dhampirs: They would prefer that the Dhampir be disrupted rather than nature.
Knowledge of vampire origin: Know
Compatible with Vampires: Opposed
Attitudes towards Magi: Dislike
Acceptance of others: None
Allies: Cabal, Illuminati, Coursers, Wild Bunch
Enemies: Drakes, Mafia, Republicans, Royal Society, Church of England

Wild Bunch - One of several gangs terrorizing the open road. These bandits jump any travelers that appear weaker than they are.
These bandits don't have a care for the origin of vampires. Much less know anything about it.
The Wild Bunch will kill any vampire that hunts in their territory.
These ruffians dislike Dhampir and non-Dhampir alike. they see them all as victims.
Other Gangs:
Bushwhackers - Confederate Army defectors that use their weapons and tactics to prey on the weak and defenseless.
Seabirds - A desperate group of indigenous people who rob any settlers, boomers or colonists.
Black Wings - A gang of immigrants pushed too far and willing to do anything to survive.

How are they changing the world for the better: These groups are forcing government and military to make the roads safer.
How are they oppressing Dhampirs: These bandits are a plague to the Dhampir that use the roads.
Knowledge of vampire origin: Ignorant
Compatible with Vampires: Opposed
Attitudes towards Magi: Dislike
Acceptance of others: None
Allies: Boomers, Magicians, Regulators, Wicca
Enemies: Church of England, Rail Barons, Trailblazers, Order of the Magi, Drakes

Good start!

2009-02-11T07:59:00.004-07:00

Hi!
I found a good place to start my game.
I am going to start with the mechanics from otherkind (otherkind pdf on the wayback machine).
It has the right balance of "game" and story telling and lets the player tell the group, in a clear and concise way, what is important to them.
I am going to tweak with the TNs (right now it is a 1-2,3-4, 5-6 spread on 1d6), look at the sources for bonus dice and die mods. The design choices that Vincent Baker made are fascinating me and I am hoping to dig behind them.

New name, new game!

2009-02-01T21:05:00.005-07:00

Hi!
Well, the name changed again. But it is really good news.
I found a publisher in Heroic Journey Publishing (http://blog.heroic-journey.net/).
We brainstormed, and the game we will publish together is called SteamPunk Crescendo. It will be a steampunk era game about vampires and a grim dystopian setting.

All players will be Dhampir. Who will have to maintain spiritual purity. If they fall from purity and yield to temptation. they gain vampiric powers and vampiric weaknesses.

Setting info

2008-08-03T01:04:00.002-06:00

Hi!
I really am looking to brainstorm this out a bit (I have some criteria, but other than that, its all flexible). Here is where I am starting from:
You play a character that wants to make a difference. For whatever reason, your character has super-human powers (Probably has to do with cosmic rays). And they have decided to step up and make a difference.
There have always been heroes like you (Hercules was real; for instance). People know about it and accept it as true.

This is a alternate earth, much like our own. But some people have super powers. Most people still live their lives the way they do today. Even though someone might swoop in to save them, people still look both ways before crossing the street. Because, your chance of being personally rescued by a super-powered human is the same as the chance you would have a conversation with an American Idol Contestant.

But for every shining star, there is a shadow cast that cannot be denied. Super Villains keep the world in balance and all of them pursue their own twisted agenda. Generally, its the Super Villains that dress up in Capes, have sinister nicknames and create secret societies. Still, some characters will use more theatrical names. Maintaining a secret ID is done today, in the real world. in modern times. So, I am not trying to make it impossible or say it can't be done at all. BUT, if you save the world and show your face to thousands, if not millions of people watching the news, then someone is going to step up and say, I dated him in high school or that guy lives on my block. And then the cat is out of the bag, right?

There are secret societies and maybe even some influential public groups and super groups. But none of them are pulling the strings behind a conspiracy to rule the world.

So, your character battles evil to save the world, marshaling their powers and allies to overcome the efforts of super-powered villains.

I guess that is what this game is about, characters that want to make a difference. I will admit that in this setting there will be the all of the following:
Super heroes
Heroes
Good Samaritans
Ineffective people
Apathetic people
Cynical/Depressed people
Bad guys
Super villains

All of them with AND without powers.

Where are all these powers coming from?
Cosmic rays. Cosmic rays form the normal background radiation that exists everywhere on earth. A huge volume cones from the sun. However, 99 % of the high-energy particles come from the galactic core. No one knows where that other 1 % comes from. But, it is theorized that they are the source of super powers. These exotic high-energy particles could alter the DNA of whoever they strike. It is known that this phenomenon only affects young children (usually less than 3 years old) and that no one has ever been affected in the womb. In very rare cases older children manifest powers, but the oldest recorded age of someone just attaining their powers for the first time is 12.

Basically the idea is that the placenta protects a fetus from the exotic heavy particles of some cosmic rays. And when we are little, our bodies are changing all the time, to account for growth, etc. So during that time we are vulnerable to these exotic particles. As we get older, our body stabilizes and one DNA molecule getting knocked out of whack no longer has the potential to re-write our entire body's other DNA molecules.

This is a piece I am still working on, trying to set the tone/expectations:
Imagine, you are a normal person, living your life, just trying to fit in. But, you can't, you really are different...

You have super powers. You've known it for your whole life, its nothing new. But you just didn't want to stick out in a crowd, until that day when Inferno threatened to melt the city with his heat ray. You knew that your Ice powers would make a difference...

And that was the day that Steve Forester became a hero.

Steve Forester
Ice powers (Super, Power, Physical)
Total recall (Power, Mental)
Charming (Ability)
Quick (Ability)
Thorough (Ability)
Likes people
Doesn't like attention
Impulsive
Mark of the Soft touch (Mark)
Can never trust again (Weakness, Social)

Inferno
Heat ray (Super,Power, Physical)
Hot body (Power, Social)
Instinct (Ability)
Daring (Ability)
Methodical (Ability)
Manic
Narcissist
Driven
Mark of Greed (Mark)
Super predictable (Weakness, Mental)

How do they get their money?
I like the idea of a paypal link or something. Its modern, and doesn't have any irony/stigma attached to it like nascar-like corporate sponsorship does.

The other idea I had was local sponsorship. Like his Realtor covers his mortgage, as long as they can say Steve Forester is a proud sponsor, etc. It works, but it has the danger of ballooning into full-blown corporate sponsorship or just being silly.

Merchandise could be cool though. Maybe some supers sell hats and t-shirts through their websites?

How is being a Hero like being a rock star?
In this setting, there are a lot of similarities:
1) They are lots of them, but you will probably never meet one in person
2) They both want to be known for their talents
3) They both believe in something
4) The public doesn't know how they make their money
5) Everyone thinks they know you from your press
6) Everyone expects you to do things that they themselves would never do
7) Everyone expects you to do the things you did before
8) Everyone expects you to try new things and keep it original
9) You only make the news when you do something huge or something bad

Design goals:
- Encourages Stepping up to make a difference
- Encourages public persona (no alter-egos)
- Encourages public knowledge of super-powered humans
- Encourage life as usual in a modern earth-like world
- No conspiracy of shadows
- No government super soldier programs
- No aliens
- No hereditary powers
- No underwear on the outside of your clothes/capes

So, what do you think? What is covered that doesn't make sense to you? What is not covered but should be for this Genre/Setting?
Dave M

Setting starters

2008-06-29T11:40:00.002-06:00

Hi!
Here is where I am starting from:
You play a character that wants to make a difference. For whatever reason, your character has super-human powers (Probably has to do with cosmic rays). And they have decided to step up and make a difference.
There has always been heroes like you. People know about it and accept it as true.
This is a alternate earth, much like our own. But some people have super powers. Most people still live their lives the way they do here, today. Even though someone might swoop in to save them, people still look both ways before crossing the street. Because, your chance of being personally rescued by a super-powered human is the same as the chance you would have a conversation with an American Idol.
But for every shining star, there is a shadow cast that cannot be denied. Super Villains keep the world in balance and all of them pursue their own twisted agenda.
So, your character battle evil to save the world, marshaling their powers and allies to overcome the efforts of super-powered villains.

Design goals:
- Encourages Stepping up to make a difference
- Encourages public persona (no alter-egos)
- Encourages public knowledge of super-powered humans
- Encourage life as usual in a modern earth-like world
- No conspiracy of shadows
- No government super soldier programs
- No aliens
- No hereditary powers

So, what do you think?
Dave M

[DNAwesome] Power 19

2008-06-24T22:13:00.007-06:00

Hi!
Luke Crane, John Wick, and Jared Sorensen came up with the Big Three questions of Game Design. Then, Troy Costisick came up with the Power 19, a way to elaborate further on the intent of the original three:
1.) What is your game about?
Super powered humans standing up and making a difference. This is a world where there have always been supers (Hercules was real for instance). Not in the shadows, but in the open. Like rock stars, there are thousands of them, but the chance of encountering one of them is about the same.

2.) What do the characters do?
Face Challenges that threaten the heroes or the people that they care about.

3.) What do the players (including the GM if there is one) do?
The GM Plays the Villains and initiates Challenges for the Players and reacts to the Challenges that the Players make.

The Players play super powered humans and try and make a difference in the game world.

This is done through Challenges, which involves picking an Arena, Scope, selecting and narrating Traits of all characters involved, rolling dice according to Scope and then the players and GM buy game world effects with the points generated by the dice and traits.

4.) How do the various parts of your system reinforce what your game is about?
There is no result of "nothing happens" and the results are defined by the players as the results of their actions.

5.) How does your setting (or lack thereof) reinforce what your game is about?
The setting should enable the characters to stand up and make a difference, and not force them to hide in the shadows.

6.) How does the Chargen of your game reinforce what your game is about?
Character generation involves coming up with the a concept for your character, then enables you to make that EXACT character. The only character concept that is not supported is making a character that doesn't have any problems.

7.) What types of behaviors/styles of play does your game reward (and punish if necessary)?
Unlimited creativity is supported by chargen, and this extends into the story told at the table. The game should support traditional play, with a GM, character build strategies, solid resolution mechanics and predictable/manageable mechanics.

8.) How are behaviors and styles of play rewarded or punished in your game?
Challenge resolution is defined by how the players change the setting/game world then backed up mechanically by allowing the players to substantively change the setting through their character's actions.

9.) How are the responsibilities of narration and credibility divided in your game?
Credibility is defined by the Tags of the character Traits and the Effects purchased through the resolution mechaanics.

10.) What does your game do to command the players' attention, engagement, and participation? (i.e. What does the game do to make them care?)
Even though the GM has a central role, player participation and narration is mandatory. And this is reinforced through the rules.

11.) What are the resolution mechanics of your game like?
You narrate to explain what Traits are in play and then buy changes in the world with the points generated.

12.) How do the resolution mechanics reinforce what your game is about?
You don't have to roll for the little things, like "Does Batman make his Driving Roll?" You roll when you think you can change the world!

13.) Do characters in your game advance? If so, how?
Advancement is not a focus of this game. You could use the Effect rules to produce advancement-like Effects in your own character though.

14.) How does the character advancement (or lack thereof) reinforce what your game is about?
If the effect of a challenge is to make yur character stronger, buy it with the appropriate Effect points. Otherwise, spend them to make the world a better place.

15.) What sort of product or effect do you want your game to produce in or for the players?
I hope that the mechanics (and not some settimgs prose) will make the players really care about this setting.

16.) What areas of your game receive extra attention and color? Why?
Creativity. A poster asked me how to make a character with Eyeball Control and we hashed it out in 3 posts that would have been less than a 5-minute convo face to face. And that is what I want for this game. Not to force the players to jigger their ideas into a rigid system, but to make the heroes they see in their mind's eye.

17.) Which part of your game are you most excited about or interested in? Why?
No laundry list of poers, templates, effects, advantages, disadvantages or any such thing.

18.) Where does your game take the players that other games can’t, don’t, or won’t?
Their imagination. With my game, you never have to say, "OK, my character has X, but it has no mechanical affect"

19.) What are your publishing goals for your game? Who is your target audience?
I'd like to do small press if I can line up a decent cover.

I hope this will be enlightening. Please feel free to leave a comment.

This can also be found at:
http://www.indie-rpgs.com/forum/index.php?topic=26402.0
http://www.therpgsite.com/showthread.php?p=219024%23post219024
http://forum.rpg.net/showthread.php?t=401680
http://gaiaonline.com/forum/table-top-gaming/dnawesome-power-19/t.41259371/
Dave M

Where to find more information

2008-06-24T08:33:00.005-06:00

Hi!
I am trying to get feedback and maybe get the word out there that there is a new supers game. I am active on a couple of different gaming forums, so I sort of cross-posted in order to get different perspectives on my progress. You can find those posts/threads here:
The Forge:
http://www.indie-rpgs.com/forum/index.php?topic=26348.0
http://www.indie-rpgs.com/forum/index.php?topic=26351.0
http://www.indie-rpgs.com/forum/index.php?topic=26389.0

The RPG Site:
http://www.therpgsite.com/showthread.php?t=10769
http://www.therpgsite.com/showthread.php?t=10773
http://www.therpgsite.com/showthread.php?t=10922

Gaia Online:
http://gaiaonline.com/forum/table-top-gaming/feedback-requested-dnawesome-my-new-supers-game/t.40936711/
http://gaiaonline.com/forum/table-top-gaming/dnawesome-mechanics-so-far/t.40947625/
http://gaiaonline.com/forum/table-top-gaming/dnawesome-grit-whadya-think/t.41205719/

RPG Net
http://forum.rpg.net/showthread.php?t=399439
http://forum.rpg.net/showthread.php?t=399544
http://forum.rpg.net/showthread.php?t=401328

I really am trying to get feedback from as many diverse points of view as possible. So, if you want to post to one of these threads, feel free. Or if you know of a forum for Pen and Pencil RPGs that would be a good place for threads like these, feel free to suggest them to me.
Dave M

New name, new game!

2008-06-23T15:00:00.002-06:00

Hi!
DNAwesome will be a game about Super powered heroes. The world will be similar to today, but with maybe 6-7 thousand super powered humans (no aliens, but maybe cyborgs and what not).

But this will not be a game played in the shadows, your character will be a rock star (loved by some, hated by others)! And you will be kicking butt and taking names of anyone who would mess with the good people in this world!
Dave M

NPCs

2006-12-17T19:45:00.000-07:00

Hi!
I know it's been a long time, but I was re-statting the NPCs with the new skills and life paths. you can see them here:
Google Spreadsheets - New NPC Stats

I think the inclusion of these stats will work well to guide players to understanding the system and characters in the setting.
Dave M
Author of Legends of Lanasia (Still in Beta)
Free Demo

New Style Character Sheets

2006-09-16T09:31:00.000-06:00

Hi!
The New Style Character sheet is finished. I think it has all then info you need to play and enough to build a fully, formed character.
What do you think?
Dave M
Author of Legends of Lanasia (Still in Beta)
Free Demo

New Map!

2006-08-28T20:07:00.000-06:00

Hi!
Tony Dowler came through and here's my new map!
He is pretty good, here's a sample of his other stuff:
Maps
and
Planets and such

Dave M
Author of Legends of Lanasia (Still in Beta)
Free Demo

Skills done!

2006-07-06T10:07:00.000-06:00

Hi!
Skills are done too! Went from 50 to 25, and there is still a large and focused variety to build characters with and keep the players focused on the task of being heroes!
Dave M
Author of Legends of Lanasia (Still in Beta)
Free Demo

Techniques down!

2006-06-08T22:15:00.000-06:00

Hi!
The Techniques have been revamped, there is a definable power curve that has a natural progression. A lot of the Damage Save numbers have changed, but it has worked out for the best!
Now I have to work out Bonus and Penatly Skills.
Dave M
Author of Legends of Lanasia (Still in Beta)
Free Demo

Major revamp!

2006-06-04T00:36:00.000-06:00

Hi!
Sorry about the long time without updates. I've been working on a major revamp, including:

Updating Technique Damage Saves
Fixing my map
Editting and Proofreading
Eliminating Abilities
Simplifying Stats
Streamlining Skills
Simplifying Character Generation
Re-writing the Intro

Should be perfect when I am done!
Dave M
Author of Legends of Lanasia (Still in Beta)
Free Demo

Critical Success

2006-04-05T23:37:00.000-06:00

Hi!
OK, I think I m going to add Critical Hits for combat. All of the Combat Skills have fumbles, so it seems to add a sort of symmetry to add some sort of Critical Hit as well.
I am not talking about double damage or anything, but maybe some sort of wounding system, maybe effects movement, DR, Rec, etc.
What do you think?
Dave M
Author of Legends of Lanasia (Still in Beta)
Free Demo

Iron Chef Game Entry: Moral Fiber Optic

2006-03-24T08:49:00.000-07:00

Hi!
Playing the Programs in the Computer and fighting for your faction, are you up to it?
Dave M
Author of Legends of Lanasia (Still in Beta)
Free Demo

Iron Game Chef: Heart of Glass

2006-03-12T18:57:00.000-07:00

Hi!
Hey, I entered the Iron Game Chef competition. I'm making a single-session two-hour game with the ingredients of Ancient, Emotion and Glass.

It's called "Heart of Glass" and it is about serving an Ancient Dragon while serving your own needs. It uses cards and no dice, I think it will be fun to play, I am almost ready to playtest it.
Dave M
Author of Legends of Lanasia (Still in Beta)
Free Demo

Even newer version!

2006-02-27T17:22:00.000-07:00

Hi!
After some playtesting, I decided the combat system was a little too complicated. This is the new version with a new streamlined combat system and the addition of friends and enemies to character generation.
Enjoy!
Dave M
Author of Legends of Lanasia (Still in Beta)
Free Demo

Character Sheet and More!

2006-02-12T22:45:00.000-07:00

Hi!
1,000, Monkeys, 1,000, Typewriters (http://www.1km1kt.net/) agreed to host my demo and character sheet!
Check it out here: Cool Download Page
Dave M
Author of Legends of Lanasia (Still in Beta)
Free Demo

New Version!

2006-02-10T14:01:00.000-07:00

Hi!
The free demo has been updated. It now has factions and a few edits. It should be an interesting insight into the game's setting.
Dave M
Author of Legends of Lanasia (Still in Beta)
Free Demo

It is your Destiny...

2006-02-06T12:03:00.000-07:00

Hi!
Well, the Destiny system finally made it into Playtest. It went very well too. Two different players gave it a spin and both were pleased with the results.
This is very reassuring for me, since it is new and was never tested before.
Dave M
Author of Legends of Lanasia (Still in Beta)
Free Demo

"The Power 19"

2006-01-24T10:01:00.000-07:00

Hi!
Luke Crane, John Wick, and Jared Sorensen came up with the three big questions of Game Design. Then, Troy Cristisick came up with the Power 19, a way to elaborate further on intent of the original three:
1.) What is your game about?
Sword and Sorcery adventure and challenging stereotypes.

2.) What do the characters do?
Explore the world of Lanasia, find creative solutions to Lanasia's challenges and explore the uniqueness of each player's character.

3.) What do the players (including the GM if there is one) do?
Description
- The Judge (GM) describes the scene as the characters perceive it, at a minimum this information should:
- Be consistent with previous events and/or the character’s backgrounds
- Include a location
- Anything the characters can see
- Anything the characters can hear
- Anything the characters can smell and potentially taste
- Anything the characters can feel
- Anything that the characters would know about what the NPCs are doing
- Any clues that the characters vitally need to know for the story to continue
- Allow players to roll for Awareness and other skills to notice clues or minor details
- The players should describe what their characters are trying to do, including:
- What you character’s intent is. There may be a skill roll involved or another character may resist your efforts.
- What your character is doing to accomplish this intent
- What objects your character is using to accomplish this intent
- What your character is saying to accomplish this intent
- If relevant, include what your character is feeling/thinking about this intent

Task Resolution
- The Judge and player determine if this task has a chance to fail. Character conversations, trivial efforts and anything that the player and Judge consider a normal or logical outcome
- If there is a chance of failure, the Judge and player determine what Skill or Talent is appropriate
- The Judge determines the Difficulty Number and modifiers
- The Player rolls the dice and modifies for Skill Mod for the appropriate Ability, Skill level and any other modifiers
- The Judge and player determine how successful the attempt was and create a new description

4.) How do the various parts your system reinforce what your game is about?
The Talent system reinforces the uniqueness of each character, while the list of available skills reinforces a sense of adventure

5.) How does your setting (or lack thereof) reinforce what your game is about?
Lanasia is a wide world with with characters that reinforce some stereotypes and challenge others.

6.) How does the Chargen of your game reinforce what your game is about?
Character generation involves the background of a character and guides them through picking skills. Characters are fully-formed beings and potentially heroic. While the selection of a Talent empowers the player to create a truly unique character.

7.) What types of behaviors/styles of play does your game reward (and punish if necessary)?
The game encourages heroic play, group cooperation and exploration.

8.) How are behaviors and styles of play rewarded or punished in your game?
It's pushed as advice to players and Judge (GM). It was not part of my design philosophy to enforce a specific style of play over others.

9.) How are the responsibilities of narration and credibility divided in your game?
The primary storyteller is the GM, with the players portraying their characters within the scope of the rules. There is a Destiny system that allows each player to directly influence the Narration.

10.) What does your game do to command the players' attention, engagement, and participation? (i.e. What does the game do to make them care?)
XPs are awarded by use of skills and creativity instead of kills or money amassed.

11.) What are the resolution mechanics of your game like?
All skills (combat and/or non-combat) are resolved by rolling two dice, adding the skill mod for one ability and youtr skill level and comparing to a Target Number. It is a classic Task Resolution system. For non-combat skills, the number of rolls is reduced to maximize the value of Luck.

12.) How do the resolution mechanics reinforce what your game is about?
The skills available are geared towards adventure.

13.) Do characters in your game advance? If so, how?
Characters do gain XPs, these can be used to improve skills and the character's Talent. There is also advancement through other means as well.

14.) How does the character advancement (or lack thereof) reinforce what your game is about?
Advancement is tailored towards each charcer's Talent, Skills and goals.

15.) What sort of product or effect do you want your game to produce in or for the players?
The ultimate goal is fun through storytelling. With a hopeful intent of challenging player's stereotypes.

16.) What areas of your game receive extra attention and color? Why?
Magic, Prayer and Mystic Techniques. They form the metaphysical basis for the universe of Lanasia.

17.) Which part of your game are you most excited about or interested in? Why?
The Talent system, it is unique, creative and well designed.

18.) Where does your game take the players that other games can’t, don’t, or won’t?
Characters are entitled to be heroes from day one.

19.) What are your publishing goals for your game? Who is your target audience?
Ultimately to publish this game for profit to players. I do not know much about marketing. As soon as I can get a handle on it, I will try to target my audience.

I hope this will be enlightening. Please feel free to leave a comment.
Dave M
Author of Legends of Lanasia (Still in Beta)
Free Demo

The new Skill system is working great!

2006-01-21T12:40:00.000-07:00

Hi!
I've playtested a couplke of sessions with the new Skill system and it is great. The characters are coming out just like I imagined. The players don;t mind (and sometimes really like) the new system and the characters made are fully formed beings with abilities comparable to their past. I am glad I took the time to make is!
Dave M
Author of Legends of Lanasia (Still in Beta)
Free Demo

Thanks Tom!

2006-01-12T01:36:00.000-07:00

Hi!
I now have a Banner, thanks to Tom George, he rocks!
Dave M
Author of Legends of Lanasia (Still in Beta)
Free Demo

New Version!

2006-01-09T12:16:00.000-07:00

Hi!
The new version is available. It has the new Skill selection system and stats for NPCs. Next I need to Edit and get Art!
Check it out and leave any comments you think are pertinent.
Dave M
Author of Legends of Lanasia (Still in Beta)
Free Demo

Skills

2005-12-27T16:11:00.000-07:00

Hi!
I decided to drop the point cost system for determining starting Skills. The new system will be based on the lifepath you pick. Through each phase of your background, you nwill pick a handful of skills and then proceed to the next step. I think it will make for characters with better backgrounds and more realistic skills for starting characters.
I'll post the new version as soon as I finish all of the edits.
Dave M
Author of Legends of Lanasia (Still in Beta)
Free Demo

Happy Holidays!

2005-12-25T15:31:00.000-07:00

Hi!
Merry Christmas, Happy Chanuka and have a great Kwanza!
Dave M
Author of Legends of Lanasia (Still in Beta)
Free Demo

Ramping up

2005-12-20T11:38:00.000-07:00

Hi!
I am trying to get the word out there, I am going to see if 1km1kt will post my banner ad. Looks like a cool site, check it out!

Dave M
Author of Legends of Lanasia (Still in Beta)
Free Demo

Talents

2005-12-16T19:25:00.000-07:00

Hi!
Is it better to leave it open to player creativity or give them solid examples that may be the only ones used?
Let me know what you think
Dave M
Author of Legends of Lanasia (Still in Beta)
Free Demo

Destiny?

2005-12-13T10:33:00.000-07:00

Hi!
Destiny - Characters will also have a Destiny Stat. Spending a point of this Stat allows a character to introduce a new element to the story (i.e., Character, subplot, item, quest, scene detail, etc.). Characters are awarded Destiny points for advancing the current story. In this way, players are rewarded for participating in telling the story with the Judge. What do you think?
Dave M
Author of Legends of Lanasia (Still in Beta)
Free Demo

Setting info vs. Story

2005-12-11T20:16:00.000-07:00

Hi!
The setting for the game is complete. But should it be presented in cyclopedia form or in story form?
Cyclopedic form gives more flexibility for the Judge to make their own story, while a narrative setting gives the players more material to use for background and feel.
Dave M
Author of Legends of Lanasia (Still in beta)
Free Demo

Does a demo have to be playable?

2005-12-06T12:14:00.000-07:00

Hi!
That's what I am thinking about now. I want to put a "Lite" or demo version of my game on the internet, but I don't know what to include and what to exclude.
What will make someone want to buy a game, and what will be enough that they don't need to?
The way I see it there is:

Core rules
Rules clarifications
Character creation
Background setting
Custimization rules

What can I include that will entice players to buy and what should I not include that will discourage players from buying?

Dave M
Author of Legends of Lanasia RPG (Still in beta)
Free Demo

Finally, a new name

2005-12-04T18:51:00.000-07:00

Hi!
Thanks to Seth Ben-Ezra I have come up with "Legends of Lanasia." Lanasia is the name of the the world the characters inhabit. A varied land Magic, religion and hope.
I would also like to extend my thanks to everyone who helped contribute to this naming process, especially Cheryl, Leroy, Susan, Ben, Trev, Pat, Nick, Eric, Pengy, Jack Spencer Jr, Tobias, Frank, Troy & Eero
Dave M
Author of Legends of Lanasia (Still in Beta)
Free Demo

New name part 2

2005-12-02T16:49:00.000-07:00

Hi!
I just found a 'Legends of "world"' RPG, so, new round of naming, what do you think of the following?
Legends of Lore
Lands of Lanasia
Legacy of Luvaun
Legacy of Light
Luminous of Lokag
Lands of Legacy
Dave M
Author of a new RPG (Still in beta)

What's in a name?

2005-12-01T10:23:00.000-07:00

Hi!
Lands of Lore is the name of a CRPG, here are other possible names I am thinking of using:
Legends of Lanasia
Legends of Luquadia
Legends of Lyuz
Legends of Latteso
Legends of Luvaun
Legends of Lopuya
Legends of Lhenanne
Legends of Lokag
Legends of Loq
Legends of Luq
Legends of Laq
Legends of Lanha
Legends of Lenahne
Legends of Lonfi
Legends of Loeph
Legends of Lorav
Legends of Leli
Legends of Lyd
Legends of Bemna
Iron Age Adventures
The third word would be the name of the world the characters live in. So, let me know which you thinks is better!
Dave M
Author of a new RPG (Still in beta)

Volunteers

2005-11-30T19:33:00.000-07:00

Hi!
Anyone want to volunteer to playtest my character creation system? Send me an e-mail at My Yahoo! Addy. I'll send you some info and you can get started!
Dave M
Author of Lands of Lore (Still in beta)
Free Demo

New name!

2005-11-29T17:27:00.000-07:00

Hi!
Looks like "Lands of Lore" is taken, I am thinking of calling it "Iron Age Adventures" I'll let that rattle around in my brain and then update all my junk if I like it!
Dave M
Author of Legends of Lanasia RPG (still in beta)
Free Demo

Feature list

2005-11-28T16:28:00.000-07:00

Hi!
Intuitive Ability and Skill system
30 playable races, including: Humans, Elves, Dwarfs, Orks, Ogres, Trolls and Vampires
Diverse and compelling World Setting
Customizable and balanced spell system
Detailed background system for character creation
Innovative and heroic combat system
Customizable profession system
Starting characters are actually proficient in their chosen profession
Gain experience for using your skills, not plunder
Use magic, prayer, mystic techniques or your own special talent to overcome adversity in this compelling Role Playing Game!

Dave M
Author of Lands of Lore RPG (still in beta)
Free Demo

Is it good to be different?

2005-11-27T16:28:00.000-07:00

Hi!
I just don’t know. WOTC and SJG made their fortunes on doing what was popular, White Wolf and Chaosium made their way on their own. My instinct is to break away in my own direction, do what hasn’t been done. For instance, 10 out of the 30 races in my game are considered elves. But only one or two are stereotypical elves. Haughty, whimsical, erudite or enlightened. There are bloodthirsty elves, races of warrior elves and more traditional elves as well. Is this a let down? Will this interest RPG gamers? Will this help or hurt sales?
Dave M
Author of Lands of Lore (Still in beta)
Free Demo

Supernatural

2005-11-26T14:00:00.000-07:00

Hi!
There are four sources of superhuman performance. Affinity, Magic, Prayer and Talents.
Magic and Prayer derive their power supernatural sources.
Magic works by summoning or banishing thoughts, energy, objects and beings from the Ethereal World. Magic cannot be used to heal or repair things that already exist in the world of Bemna, but can bring new things into existance.
Prayer derives its power from faith, prayer and a link to the Astral World. Prayer cannot create anything new, but can damage or repair items and people that the Priest has access to.
Afinity is a character's ability to tap into the power that emanates from the center of Bemna. These Mystics can detect, effect and protect against elemental attacks as well as mental powers.
There are other Talents too that draw from a character's natural ability.
Every character has a Talent and that makes them special.
Dave M
Author of Lands of Lore RPG (still in beta)
Free Demo

Working on the map

2005-11-25T16:24:00.000-07:00

Hi!

I'm working on a new map. Here is my old map, I think I am going to work on making it a little more easier to read and making the southern shore a little less straight and bring some of the countries closer to the coast.

Dave M
Author of Lands of Lore (Still in beta)
Free Demo

Happy Thanksgiving!

2005-11-24T14:37:00.000-07:00

Hi!
Well, I hope your day is great! I have more stuff to add, but I'll wait til tomorrow!
I am thankful that Cheryl is OK, my job is going OK and I have wonderful family and friends!
Happy Thanksgiving
Dave M
Author of Lands of Lore (still in beta)
Free Demo

Psionics?

2005-11-23T11:56:00.000-07:00

Hi!
What do you think about Psionics in a fantasy setting?
Part of me thinks it is ideal, but there is the whole D&D link to psionics. Still, if I could come up with a system of psionics that is not unbalancing, it might be appealing to players that actually want to play psionics in a fantasy setting...
Dave M
Author of the Lands of Lore RPG
Free Demo

Who am I?

2005-11-22T17:48:00.000-07:00

Hi!
Well, I have played many RPGs since 1980:
D&D (Basic, Advanced, 2E, 3E, 3.5), D20 Star Wars, DC Heroes, GURPS, TSR Conan RPG, Top Secret, TMNT, Heroes Unlimited, Ninjas and Superspies, Beyond Supernatural, Rolemaster, ShadowRun, Exalted, Mekton and Cyberpunk (1E and 2020)
Done some boardgaming too: Car wars, BattleTech, SFB, nothing too serious.
I have made my own game systems before, but never got to serious til last year.
I like this system, it's an open system, but with more of a background world than the old-style GURPS (new GURPS sourcebooks have actual game worlds to play in) and not too restrictive of a game world like White Wolf likes to do. I thought I would take the D&D approach and give a pretty good sandbox for GMs and players to play in, but went a different way in breaking away from stereotypes.
Not all Elves are all-knowing or hyper-intellectual, not all Dwarfs are rude and drunk and players can play Orks, Ogres and Trolls without being evil...
I think it's an idea whose time is ripe!
Dave M
Author of the Lands of Lore RPG
Free Demo

Greetings!

2005-11-21T21:04:00.000-07:00

Hi!
This is my first blog.
I never really felt like my life was interesting enough to blog, but then I started my first RPG book.
So, I'll be posting updates on it and letting anyone who wants to know how it is going.
Dave M

PS
Check it out:
Free Demo