First, the Basic Charts Edition of Heroes of the Dungeon Crawl is still available for free download. Over 130 hits on the Lulu site and 26 downloads as of now.
There's a local game store that just opened up. Actually, it was at another smaller location for a couple years, and it was time to move up. Business was doing well enough, as I understand it, that he had to make the move to take it to the next level.
Let's face it, in this age of computers, any game store that can make it is doing well. I have a few within transit distance, and I'd rate this one about in the middle of them all in terms of product availability and charm of store. It ain't the best, but it ain't the worst.
One of my frustrations with the place is getting them to recognize other RPG's. This is definitely a D&D is the center of the universe type of store. Now, please don't think I'm trying to slam them for this, because I'm not. It's a business, even if it started out as a hobby. Once you have a store, you are invested in the deal.
The safe bet is D&D. Wizards controls a huge share of the market, after all, and this is the game most people have heard of. Ignore that fact at your own peril. What's interesting is I've heard the guy complain about the big book stores getting better treatment than the game stores by Wizards. That's not a very game store friendly attitude from a company that you would think needed these stores.
In the end, I know the money made off of these products justifies putting up with any crap you might have to put up with.
But, I couldn't help wondering if he could do himself a little bit of a favor by trying to increase awareness of one of the other games. Which one, I don't know. Let's use Castles & Crusades as an example. I know people play this one in the area. Get them to hold weekly games there in the game room and increase the visibility of the game with a better display. No, not a bunch more space, just better visibility.
The problem is I have only seen the Players Book on the shelf there. The other two core books were not on the shelf. Hackmaster was nowhere to be seen (yes I know Kenzer has made plans for a new version, but I'm talking earlier this year). In fact, he didn't have much nice to say about Kenzer. Nope, there are tons of D&D books on the shelf, and THAT is what this guy pushes. With all the space he has now, it's a disappointment.
I need to travel about 30 miles or more to see a Tunnels & Trolls book, Hackmaster, Castles & Crusades, Lejendary Adventures and so many others, and I might add I can see many of those books in more than one store.
Do I blame the store owner? No. It's his store, and he can run it as he wishes. Just because I think the lack of certain books there is not a good thing for the RPG companies doesn't make it so. IT IS A BUSINESS!!! He is there to make money, not to help promote smaller game companies that could use the help.
THIS is the problem that a game like Labyrinth Lord will have in being more than a net fad. With Heroes of the Dungeon Crawl, I'm not worried about getting rich or finding shelf space, because I simply don't have the money to make the push. I have a few ideas up my sleeves, don't get me wrong, but I have no visions of money here. I simply wanted to add s new basic element to the RPG that is very much in need of one.
I don't see this industry growing. The big boon period was probably the early 80's for this. Most people interested in this type of deal will just get the computer game. It's cheaper, easier and it takes less time. Look at the money made off of games like Everquest, Ultima Online and World of Warcraft if you need proof. Heck, Wizards knows this, which is why there are options for playing D&D on computer, and good ones at that.
Daniel and Goblinoid Games had good intentions with Labyrinth Lord, and there has been a nice buzz surrounding it. He spent money to make a nice book that you can even order in a Barnes & Noble for purchase there (no cards needed). I tried to get the attention of the local store to order it there and put him in touch with Goblinoid Games. Nothing happened. I had even offered to purchase a book through him. It didn't say D&D on it, and you only need the one book to play. Where's the money in that?
Daniel has a big challenge ahead to go further with this, but to his credit he has said he has no major goals for this game. At least he tried, and I have nothing but respect for what he did. But even the community he seeks to sell this to is divided. Because this book isn't red with Erol Otus or Larry Elmore art on the cover, some reject it. Why do we need it? Why isn't it just free (the pdf is)? So, he can't really market it in one forum the way other games I won't name are allowed to be pushed.
I never deluded myself into thinking any of this was going to be huge, but I am disappointed in certain reactions. The old school community ought to embrace Labyrinth Lord and OSRIC for what they bring to the table, professional quality new material for an old game, but they don't. Many see it as a money grab, and don't believe it should even be there. So, the cause is hurt at the very start by that, and getting the word out is a challenge that leads to frustration by those who tout it to the masses. Simply put, many will abandon early when results aren't what they hope.
Daniel made this book available through some distributors, including Barnes & Noble. It's a little too early to see how well that will go. I believe some stores, a few at least, might stock it if asked, but will anybody ask? Others, like my local store, will just ignore the request and pretend they never heard it. After all, Wizards has new books coming with the D&D logo, and that's what people want, or are told to want anyway.
What I have noticed during the year that I have returned to gaming is not all that encouraging for anybody looking for a basic game with an old school feel. When D&D finally dropped the Basic from the name in the early 90's, it was assumed everybody could just buy all the hard cover books and jump in. No basic game needed. In my opinion, That was a mistake, but it's not one that the company will lose any sleep over.
The little guy trying to get in the door with a new game has a huge challenge ahead of him. It's not a rich industry, and why does the store need your game when they have the great RPG Monolith that is D&D? It's not an easy road. As I said, it is a business for the store owner and game maker before being a hobby. Store owners have reason to be hesitant to try new or different stuff from outside of their comfort zone.
Why am I getting into this subject? No reason really. Just a few observations I have made. It is what it is until somebody is able to make the move that changes the way things are. It has happened before and will happen again. I just feel that having a basic game you can play in minutes will go a long way towards getting people off of their computers and back to the table for a good old fashioned gaming session.
To those trying to change things and get their feet in the door with that new game, I salute you.
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Saturday, October 20, 2007
Combat in HotDC
When I look at combat in Heroes of the Dungeon Crawl, I have had numerous thoughts on the subject. I want to keep it simple and I want to keep it unique. The Attack-Defense System was created with the second point in mind, while still trying not to forget the first point. Having tested the ADS, I can honestly say it works about how I hoped it would. The 0 Degree setup works well with it too. But, is it simple enough?
The new player has to determine an Attack Strength and a Defense Strength. In combat, both sides roll twice and factor in bonuses and negatives. There's more math in the works. Is that a good idea for a basic game? I like the idea of three characteristics instead of six. It speeds up the creation process, and it means three less things to worry about when starting out. Though I don't feel that the ADS is that difficult, would simplification in this area help?
In the article I'm working on for the next Hero's Chronicle, I take a look at combat. I don't want to get into everything here, but the stat I'm looking at is called Hit Factor at the moment. Basically, your hit factor is the number your opponent needs to equal or beat to score a hit. You would roll three six sided dice to determine success. The weapon damage as assigned now won't change, and the armor bonuses won't change much.
Basically, you roll three stats, determine a race and profession, decide if you will start at 0 Degree or 1st Degree, equip your character, set Hit factor and start playing. It's simple this way, and I feel it is still unique enough. I mean, the idea of rolling dice to determine success or failure is not something that can be owned, as I understand it. Now, the charts used back in the day are another thing altogether.
As of now, things are what they are. Nothing has been changed. As I say in the book, changes are possible in every area. I will continue to explore this issue in the weeks ahead.
The new player has to determine an Attack Strength and a Defense Strength. In combat, both sides roll twice and factor in bonuses and negatives. There's more math in the works. Is that a good idea for a basic game? I like the idea of three characteristics instead of six. It speeds up the creation process, and it means three less things to worry about when starting out. Though I don't feel that the ADS is that difficult, would simplification in this area help?
In the article I'm working on for the next Hero's Chronicle, I take a look at combat. I don't want to get into everything here, but the stat I'm looking at is called Hit Factor at the moment. Basically, your hit factor is the number your opponent needs to equal or beat to score a hit. You would roll three six sided dice to determine success. The weapon damage as assigned now won't change, and the armor bonuses won't change much.
Basically, you roll three stats, determine a race and profession, decide if you will start at 0 Degree or 1st Degree, equip your character, set Hit factor and start playing. It's simple this way, and I feel it is still unique enough. I mean, the idea of rolling dice to determine success or failure is not something that can be owned, as I understand it. Now, the charts used back in the day are another thing altogether.
As of now, things are what they are. Nothing has been changed. As I say in the book, changes are possible in every area. I will continue to explore this issue in the weeks ahead.
Friday, October 19, 2007
This, That And The Other
First, the Basic Charts Edition of Heroes of the Dungeon Crawl is still available for free download. Over 100 hits on the Lulu site and 19 downloads as of now.
The Next Step For HotDC
Though I'm not on schedule with Danger in the Dwarven Dungeon, I have done some work. A few days ago, I did computer versions of the map of the Stoutheart Farm and some of the dungeon below it. I have also begun stocking the rooms in the file I have opened for this project. So, yes, work has begun. I'm still excited about this adventure, and I hope you will be too once it's done. It will be fun and challenging, while offering an interesting plot and plenty of opportunity to role play or hack n slash. And, This will be made for the HotDC system. I have other stuff in the works for Labyrinth Lord.
While splitting my time between HotDC and LL, I have begun to consider what the next step will be for the HotDC rules. I have a few ideas in mind, and I have begun looking at combat. I'm not budging on the six sided dice thing, but combat is on the table. The reason being that I want to keep it as simple as possible. I'll get more into this in future posts, and the second issue of The Hero's Chronicle as well. After looking at some other stuff and getting my hands on some art, I am considering an update to the HotDC Basic Charts Edition. This would take place after the Dwarven Dungeon is completed.
I am still working on things and learning as I go, which is why HotDC is free to download. You can buy a copy at any time of you wish to support the cause. This hasn't happened yet, but I'm not losing any sleep over it either.
Labyrinth Lord
While it wasn't in the plans to get as involved with LL as I have out of the gate, I really felt compelled to do it. I've had my worries over the whole "can they really do this" issue, as you know, but here it is. It's out there, and Goblinoid Games has recaptured something pretty special from my youth. I have been active in the community supporting the cause and will continue to do so, but I do want to get back to HotDC as well
While keeping up with things at LL, I have assisted in editing two projects. The first is an uncredited effort (I didn't ask) called The Pheonix Barony by David Bezio. This is a campaign setting and offers lots of details of people and places. He has some adventures in the works, and I will assist in editing if he asks. I really like what he has done so far and recommend it.
The second is Fortress of the Mountain King by Moritz Mehlem. It has not been released yet, but he discusses it little in his thread on the Labyrinth Lord forum. I'm not sure what he plans to do with it as far as downloads and purchases, but I'm guessing it will be a Lulu offering as well.
I have offered some ideas of my own in a thread I created on the Labyrinth Lord forum. I even put the very first map created in my time of gaming by my brother in that thread. You have heard me discuss it in this blog. The adventure was called When In Doubt, Seek It Out. I have done a computer version of that map that I haven't released yet. Originally, my intent was to use it in the Secret City of Moldayvia project.
The other adventure idea I discuss in that thread is the Wizard's School Adventure. That is actually the first one I intended to do for LL, but it turns out I have done more work on When In Doubt. It may be the first one that sees the light of day. What I'm trying not to do is get sidetracked from HotDC, which needs more attention.
What's interesting to note is that people there are pretty excited about that game, but I hope they will be patient and understand that it won't all happen at once. The worst thing they can do is get impatient and give up. I really believe a more focussed game plan is needed there, but as I don't have a financial stake in tings there, I don't want to come off as somebody who is trying to tell them what to do.
There has been a little news in the Basic RPG movement, which I still think can be a boon to bringing new players into the game if done right.
A thread over at Enworld asks, Why No Beginner Boxed Set For D&D
Well, as we have reported here, there was a Basic D&D announced, and Chris Perkins told me at Gencon that it would cover at least three levels, which is what it covered back in the TSR days. My concern is whether this will be a boxed set like the old ones that allowed you to create adventures and play several sessions with what is included in the box, or will it be like the current Basic Set for D&D 3.5 that has a couple adventures and then tells you to get the three core books?
In that thread, Scott Rouse of Wizards of the Coast said:
Keep on the Shadowfell will be an intro product for existing players to help transition to 4e rules.
In the fall of 2008 we have a product planned that will be a starter for new RPG players that will teach the basics.
As for what will be included in the Basic Set, we still wait for details. I know it's not the priority over at Wizards, but a few details would be nice. I think they'd be surprised at the reaction they would get if they do it in the style of Moldvay Basic with stripped down 4e rules. Time will tell.
The Basic Set that will likely be in that style is the one being prepared by Troll Lord Games. I'm talking about the C&C Basic Set, which has been discussed in this thread of their forum.
Steve, and I believe that is Steve Chenault, posted this recently in that thread.
The new cover has been sent to the web-master. I'm working on the detailed TOC so we can post that and people can get a better idea of what is coming.
Steve
Could that mean a Christmas release for Basic C&C? Time will tell.
Anyway, to wrap this long winded post up, work will continue on HotDC. I want to get back to focusing more on it in the days ahead. To those who have downloaded the HotDC Basic Charts Edition, thank you very much for looking. You have seen it at an early stage, and the plan is to clean it up, explain things better and improve this game in the months ahead.
Stay Tuned!!!
Gimme Basic And Other Stuff
There has been a little news in the Basic RPG movement, which I still think can be a boon to bringing new players into the game if done right.
A thread over at Enworld asks, Why No Beginner Boxed Set For D&D
Well, as we have reported here, there was a Basic D&D announced, and Chris Perkins told me at Gencon that it would cover at least three levels, which is what it covered back in the TSR days. My concern is whether this will be a boxed set like the old ones that allowed you to create adventures and play several sessions with what is included in the box, or will it be like the current Basic Set for D&D 3.5 that has a couple adventures and then tells you to get the three core books?
In that thread, Scott Rouse of Wizards of the Coast said:
Keep on the Shadowfell will be an intro product for existing players to help transition to 4e rules.
In the fall of 2008 we have a product planned that will be a starter for new RPG players that will teach the basics.
__________________
Scott Rouse
SR. Brand Manager - Dungeons & Dragons
Wizards of the Coast
Scott Rouse
SR. Brand Manager - Dungeons & Dragons
Wizards of the Coast
As for what will be included in the Basic Set, we still wait for details. I know it's not the priority over at Wizards, but a few details would be nice. I think they'd be surprised at the reaction they would get if they do it in the style of Moldvay Basic with stripped down 4e rules. Time will tell.
The Basic Set that will likely be in that style is the one being prepared by Troll Lord Games. I'm talking about the C&C Basic Set, which has been discussed in this thread of their forum.
Steve, and I believe that is Steve Chenault, posted this recently in that thread.
The new cover has been sent to the web-master. I'm working on the detailed TOC so we can post that and people can get a better idea of what is coming.
Steve
Could that mean a Christmas release for Basic C&C? Time will tell.
Anyway, to wrap this long winded post up, work will continue on HotDC. I want to get back to focusing more on it in the days ahead. To those who have downloaded the HotDC Basic Charts Edition, thank you very much for looking. You have seen it at an early stage, and the plan is to clean it up, explain things better and improve this game in the months ahead.
Stay Tuned!!!
Friday, October 12, 2007
More Progress Made On TKI-1 And Other Stuff
First, the Basic Charts Edition of Heroes of the Dungeon Crawl is still available for free download. Nearly 100 hits on the Lulu site and 13 downloads as of now.
As you've seen here on the blog, I put out issue 1 of The Hero's Chronicle and released my own version of Dungeon Squad. They will probably be moved to the Lulu site for free download soon.
HotDC has been sort of in the back seat lately as I have assisted in some stuff over at Goblinoid Games with Labyrinth Lord. In fact, I recently went to Barnes & Noble and bought LL there. Daniel has shown a path to getting books into the store that I didn't realize was there, and at some point, I will be doing the same thing.
I have offered some creative ideas at the LL forum and worked a little on my own project. I'm working on monster conversions for LL as well. Also, David Besio recently released a campaign setting for LL called The Phoenix Barony that is pretty nice. He has been spreading the word about that game and is pretty excited about it. After looking at the layout, I volunteered to proof read it, so that has been my main project this week. Actually, this book is on my get list for a hard copy, which I will be buying soon.
As it turned out, it rained today, so I took advantage of the extra computer time to work on maps for TKI-1, Danger in the Dwarven Dungeon. With that done, I will be typing the rest of the hand written notes for it (already typed the back story and that stuff), and that will make more progress. The editing of another book might cut into time a little, but there will be time made for this project.
Also, I have picked out articles for The Hero's Chronicle, Issue 2. However, there will also be original material. For sure, I want to include Stupid Things We Did At The Table (already written) and Another Look At The Combat System For HotDC (mostly written) as new pieces for the magazine. But, an ETA on completion of any of this is not set.
I do know I want to complete TKI-1 and get back to work on First Edition HotDC, but as I am considering rules, I don't want to rush it. TKI-1 will be compatible with the Basic Charts Edition of HotDC. That's the status of things at the moment.
As you've seen here on the blog, I put out issue 1 of The Hero's Chronicle and released my own version of Dungeon Squad. They will probably be moved to the Lulu site for free download soon.
HotDC has been sort of in the back seat lately as I have assisted in some stuff over at Goblinoid Games with Labyrinth Lord. In fact, I recently went to Barnes & Noble and bought LL there. Daniel has shown a path to getting books into the store that I didn't realize was there, and at some point, I will be doing the same thing.
I have offered some creative ideas at the LL forum and worked a little on my own project. I'm working on monster conversions for LL as well. Also, David Besio recently released a campaign setting for LL called The Phoenix Barony that is pretty nice. He has been spreading the word about that game and is pretty excited about it. After looking at the layout, I volunteered to proof read it, so that has been my main project this week. Actually, this book is on my get list for a hard copy, which I will be buying soon.
As it turned out, it rained today, so I took advantage of the extra computer time to work on maps for TKI-1, Danger in the Dwarven Dungeon. With that done, I will be typing the rest of the hand written notes for it (already typed the back story and that stuff), and that will make more progress. The editing of another book might cut into time a little, but there will be time made for this project.
Also, I have picked out articles for The Hero's Chronicle, Issue 2. However, there will also be original material. For sure, I want to include Stupid Things We Did At The Table (already written) and Another Look At The Combat System For HotDC (mostly written) as new pieces for the magazine. But, an ETA on completion of any of this is not set.
I do know I want to complete TKI-1 and get back to work on First Edition HotDC, but as I am considering rules, I don't want to rush it. TKI-1 will be compatible with the Basic Charts Edition of HotDC. That's the status of things at the moment.
EA Games Buys Bioware
I was sorry to read the newspaper and find out that Bioware, makers of such Dungeons & Dragons computer games as Baldur's Gate and Neverwinter Nights, has been bought out by EA. In theory, it could mean more money to develop a better RPG for the computer, but that's just a theory at this point. I wish them luck.
Unfortunately, I don't expect much. Neverwinter Nights is now with Obsidian and Atari in the form of Neverwinter Nights 2. I have it, but I don't have the computer capability to play it. Another thing I hate about these companies. They seem to make games for these super systems that they have, but many people don't.
RPG's will live on in the computer game world. Fact is, they are big business. Do some number crunching, and you realize just how much money they make. What made Bioware special was they put out quality products. BG kicked the door open, but NWN rearranged the place. Suddenly, you had these persistent worlds on the net that you didn't have to pay a monthly fee to be a part of.
There was a lot of creativity out there too. Before I played the game that came with NWN, I actually downloaded somebody's version of Palace of the Silver Princess (The old B3 Mod for Basic D&D). Good stuff there.
They guys at Bioware just had a big payday, I would suppose. Congratulations to them for that. But, EA does not impress me with their tactics. I'll spare you the political rhetoric, but they did make a mess out of the online Sim Racing community by getting exclusive rights to the NASCAR license.
If they had made the game right, I suppose it would not have mattered. As it was, they ran the company that did make it the right way out of business by getting the exclusive rights. Then, they released what many consider a pile of crap called NASCAR Sim Racing. In less than a year, the landscape changed because of that, and not for the better. And, no, the community did NOT embrace that game.
Instead they went in a different direction with a more attractive game that's harder on the computer. Had EA not come in and screwed that up, the company that was doing it the right way could have continued their progression and continued to make the community happy as they had been. EA wasn't content to be one license holder for NASCAR, hey had to monopolize things, and do it half ass to boot.
They basically killed it for me as far as being involved. In a way, they did me a favor, but it a way I'm still pissed off at them.
Nothing EA does would surprise me. Could they suddenly want to tack a crack at the D&D license? I'm not familiar enough with this to know for sure, but it wouldn't surprise me. I know Wizards has D&D 4.0 coming out and has not made any licensing deals for it yet, or so developers have recently said. With that in mind, anything is possible. Considering what EA has done to Sim Racing, I can only imagine the huge dump they would take on role playing games if given that chance.
Unfortunately, I don't expect much. Neverwinter Nights is now with Obsidian and Atari in the form of Neverwinter Nights 2. I have it, but I don't have the computer capability to play it. Another thing I hate about these companies. They seem to make games for these super systems that they have, but many people don't.
RPG's will live on in the computer game world. Fact is, they are big business. Do some number crunching, and you realize just how much money they make. What made Bioware special was they put out quality products. BG kicked the door open, but NWN rearranged the place. Suddenly, you had these persistent worlds on the net that you didn't have to pay a monthly fee to be a part of.
There was a lot of creativity out there too. Before I played the game that came with NWN, I actually downloaded somebody's version of Palace of the Silver Princess (The old B3 Mod for Basic D&D). Good stuff there.
They guys at Bioware just had a big payday, I would suppose. Congratulations to them for that. But, EA does not impress me with their tactics. I'll spare you the political rhetoric, but they did make a mess out of the online Sim Racing community by getting exclusive rights to the NASCAR license.
If they had made the game right, I suppose it would not have mattered. As it was, they ran the company that did make it the right way out of business by getting the exclusive rights. Then, they released what many consider a pile of crap called NASCAR Sim Racing. In less than a year, the landscape changed because of that, and not for the better. And, no, the community did NOT embrace that game.
Instead they went in a different direction with a more attractive game that's harder on the computer. Had EA not come in and screwed that up, the company that was doing it the right way could have continued their progression and continued to make the community happy as they had been. EA wasn't content to be one license holder for NASCAR, hey had to monopolize things, and do it half ass to boot.
They basically killed it for me as far as being involved. In a way, they did me a favor, but it a way I'm still pissed off at them.
Nothing EA does would surprise me. Could they suddenly want to tack a crack at the D&D license? I'm not familiar enough with this to know for sure, but it wouldn't surprise me. I know Wizards has D&D 4.0 coming out and has not made any licensing deals for it yet, or so developers have recently said. With that in mind, anything is possible. Considering what EA has done to Sim Racing, I can only imagine the huge dump they would take on role playing games if given that chance.
Sunday, October 7, 2007
The Hero's Chronicle Issue 1
It's on the shelves... er, um, I mean, it's available for free download. Get it HERE.
A few notes on this issue:
1-I have no artist and I am no artist. I am looking for one, but the pay won't be that great. If you are looking for a place to get started, I'd be happy to give your art a try. Until then, I use clip art from my publisher's program.
2-I may move this and my version of Dungeon Squad over to Lulu at some point. I haven't yet as I am monitoring downloads of the Basic Charts Edition of Heroes of the Dungeon Crawl and don't want other downloads there. If bandwidth becomes at issue, I may have to.
3-This issue looks at the early history of Heroes of the Dungeon Crawl and adjustments I made, why I did some of the things I did, the first test session of the game, some posts from the Dragonsfoot thread that led to Labyrinth Lord being announced and the Gary Gygax-Dave Arneson debate.
4-There is nothing in the book that you can find by weeding through the blog. The reason I am doing this it for an easier reference to the HotDC creative process for those coming late to this project.
I don't claim to be doing anything revolutionary. I'm just a guy trying to put a basic game together and trying to offer something to the hobby for those who feel the way I do. The Hero's Chronicle will feature blog posts in its early run, but original material will appear as well. Eventually, it will contain mainly original material.
5-Anybody wanting to get published is welcome to submit material. I am covering mainly basic type games like HotDC, Labyrinth Lord, Dungeon Squad, Tunnels & Trolls and games of that nature. I believe the big boys of gaming have their stuff covered, but I may include stuff occasionally if I find it relevent.
Anyway, I hope you can gain at least a little insight into HotDC through this issue.
A few notes on this issue:1-I have no artist and I am no artist. I am looking for one, but the pay won't be that great. If you are looking for a place to get started, I'd be happy to give your art a try. Until then, I use clip art from my publisher's program.
2-I may move this and my version of Dungeon Squad over to Lulu at some point. I haven't yet as I am monitoring downloads of the Basic Charts Edition of Heroes of the Dungeon Crawl and don't want other downloads there. If bandwidth becomes at issue, I may have to.
3-This issue looks at the early history of Heroes of the Dungeon Crawl and adjustments I made, why I did some of the things I did, the first test session of the game, some posts from the Dragonsfoot thread that led to Labyrinth Lord being announced and the Gary Gygax-Dave Arneson debate.
4-There is nothing in the book that you can find by weeding through the blog. The reason I am doing this it for an easier reference to the HotDC creative process for those coming late to this project.
I don't claim to be doing anything revolutionary. I'm just a guy trying to put a basic game together and trying to offer something to the hobby for those who feel the way I do. The Hero's Chronicle will feature blog posts in its early run, but original material will appear as well. Eventually, it will contain mainly original material.
5-Anybody wanting to get published is welcome to submit material. I am covering mainly basic type games like HotDC, Labyrinth Lord, Dungeon Squad, Tunnels & Trolls and games of that nature. I believe the big boys of gaming have their stuff covered, but I may include stuff occasionally if I find it relevent.
Anyway, I hope you can gain at least a little insight into HotDC through this issue.
Saturday, October 6, 2007
The "To Do" List Keeps Getting Bigger
First, I'm keeping this bumped for easy access.
The Heroes of the Dungeon Crawl Basic Charts Edition is on Lulu for book or free download HERE
I did my own version of Dungeon Squad that you can get for free HERE
The HotDC Quick Start Charts Lulu Page has been hit 75 times and downloaded for free 11 times. I have begun to put it out there a little bit more, and I'm sure that has helped. I'm just happy it's being noticed. There's still much to do, but the game is playable at this point.
Now, there seems to be a growing list of things to do, but nothing has been finished. I hate when that happens.
1-The Hero's Chronicle
2-Danger in the Dwarven Dungeon
3-A Labyrinth Lord Module tentatively titled Quest For The Ancient Tome
4-A non game related book that I need to finish
5-HotDC First Edition Rule Book
6-A non game related book I plan to start working on in 2008
.
I mentioned in a previous post that I had laid this magazine out already. The content is written and consists largely or early blog posts. The pdf will be free. A book may be offered for only a small fee to any who want it.
I have given thought to the second issue, and here are a few thoughts on that one. I may be debuting content in that book not previously posted here. Of course, that's the future of the magazine, but I have some stuff I want to put into the first few issues that document the early days of HotDC creation and my Gencon 2007 experience. Here are three ideas I have for issue two.
1-Stupid Things We Did At The Table - This will debut in the magazine at this point, though it may be posted here after that issue is released. It documents my early days of playing and the things we did that would be frowned upon by the game makers.
2-Another Look At HotDC Combat - This one will look specifically at the Armor Level System, raise some OGL questions that may or may not have been addressed by the OSRIC guys and offer my take. What makes the old red book's combat system unique to it? Well, that's what this column will be about.
3-An Adventure For HotDC - This will be the small Quest For The Emerald Gem dungeon that was used as the first HotDC test. It's already been written, so why the heck not?
The third thought came to me while I was out walking around today. These are things I would like to do in the second issue, but I need to get the first issue done. I plan to work on that a little bit more tonight.
The Heroes of the Dungeon Crawl Basic Charts Edition is on Lulu for book or free download HERE
I did my own version of Dungeon Squad that you can get for free HERE
The HotDC Quick Start Charts Lulu Page has been hit 75 times and downloaded for free 11 times. I have begun to put it out there a little bit more, and I'm sure that has helped. I'm just happy it's being noticed. There's still much to do, but the game is playable at this point.
Now, there seems to be a growing list of things to do, but nothing has been finished. I hate when that happens.
1-The Hero's Chronicle
2-Danger in the Dwarven Dungeon
3-A Labyrinth Lord Module tentatively titled Quest For The Ancient Tome
4-A non game related book that I need to finish
5-HotDC First Edition Rule Book
6-A non game related book I plan to start working on in 2008
.
The Hero's Chronicle
I mentioned in a previous post that I had laid this magazine out already. The content is written and consists largely or early blog posts. The pdf will be free. A book may be offered for only a small fee to any who want it.
I have given thought to the second issue, and here are a few thoughts on that one. I may be debuting content in that book not previously posted here. Of course, that's the future of the magazine, but I have some stuff I want to put into the first few issues that document the early days of HotDC creation and my Gencon 2007 experience. Here are three ideas I have for issue two.
1-Stupid Things We Did At The Table - This will debut in the magazine at this point, though it may be posted here after that issue is released. It documents my early days of playing and the things we did that would be frowned upon by the game makers.
2-Another Look At HotDC Combat - This one will look specifically at the Armor Level System, raise some OGL questions that may or may not have been addressed by the OSRIC guys and offer my take. What makes the old red book's combat system unique to it? Well, that's what this column will be about.
3-An Adventure For HotDC - This will be the small Quest For The Emerald Gem dungeon that was used as the first HotDC test. It's already been written, so why the heck not?
The third thought came to me while I was out walking around today. These are things I would like to do in the second issue, but I need to get the first issue done. I plan to work on that a little bit more tonight.
Danger in the Dwarven Dungeon
.
This one has had work done to it, believe it or not. I have created a back story for the dungeon, Pradius Stoutheart and his comrades and the town of Dragon Vale. A main plot has been outlined, and many of the rooms of the first two levels have been assigned encounters or whatever. Level 3 needs a little work, but maps for all three levels have been drawn up. Some typing has been done, but there's more to be done.
.
Labyrinth Lord
.
We've had quite a bit of excitement over on the Labyrinth Lord forum. There have been discussions about the future, ideas have been shared, the first products have been created and people are getting more familiar with each other. What's not to be excited about.? Daniel Proctor has brought the old game of our youth back to light and given us a canvas to paint upon again. Some are already worried it isn't going fast enough, but there's no reason to panic. Things are right on schedule.
.
I pick up my copy of LL at Barnes & Noble, hopefully, early next week. When I get it, I will be looking at my idea for a first LL Module, set near Dolmvay at an old and abandoned Wizard's School. I call it Quest for the Ancient Tome. I already have many notes and an overall outline of where the buildings are and what creatures are there. If I feel comfortable with it, I will proceed.
.
Everything Else
.
The first book is already written. I had a pdf for it, but it needed work. I need to put the Table Of Contents in it, possibly rename it, make sure the cover and layout are set and put it out there. It's not game related, but I doubt it will take long to finish, perhaps a day or two. I worked on this book over the course of a few years and finished it last year. I hesitated to do anything with it, but it will be published.
.
I'm not trying to overwhelm myself here, and I generally won't allow myself to spend too many hours staring at the computer. The Labyrinth Lord stuff probably shouldn't be in the top three right now, but I'm excited about this game and want to support it as it gets going. Though I played around with Dungeon Squad a little bit, I doubt I will have time for any games other than HotDC and LL for the time being.
.
There's enough on my plate to keep me busy for a while. Hopefully, The Hero's Chronicle will be released within the week. That's all for now. Stay Tuned for more in the days ahead.
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
A Few Updates, the D&D Petition & other Stuff
As mentioned in the previous post, I did my own version of Dungeon Squad that you can get for free HERE
The Heroes of the Dungeon Crawl Basic Charts Edition is on Lulu for book or free download HERE
Sorry for the gratuitous plugs, but I want to keep this stuff bumped.
I have drawn the maps for the three levels of Danger in the Dwarven Dungeon. Most of the first level encounters are set along with many of the second. The third has a few. I would say I may be 40% done, if that. Just wanted to give the update. I plan to get back to work on making the book version of that map and Three Kings Island soon.
Labyrinth Lord is now available at Barnes & Noble for purchase. You can actually order it through a physical store and buy it there.
I have done just that. I hope to pick it up within the next week. Once I do that, I will begin to sketch ideas for a Module compatible with LL. I have actually started jotting ideas down, but there's NOTHING like having a rulebook to go through without having to stare at a computer. More details will surface in the weeks ahead.
Well, okay, I have a working title for it. I'm tentatively calling it Quest for the Sacred Tome. I'm setting it at an Abandoned Wizard's School near Dolmvay in The Known Lands setting. That's what I have at the moment, but it can all change. I post along with others at the Goblinoid Games Forum if you want to see what's happening in that community.
For the time being, the Three Kings Island stuff for HotDC and my LL stuff will be separate. I feel it's important to do it this way at this time. Danger in the Dwarven Dungeon and The Hero's Chronicle are the main two projects on the drawing board for Basic Old School Games.
Anyway, I wanted to point out two things from the Wizards of the Coast community.
I don't claim to have started this thread, but I joined in on it late. It is the petition to get old D&D books back into print. My post late in the thread talks about Print on Demand as an option. The thread, which has nearly 5500 views as of this writing, has over 100 signatures. I know, because I counted. Will it matter? Who knows, but it couldn't hurt. View the thread HERE.
The second one is about the 4.0 version of Basic D&D. I'm curious what is going on with this deal. Since talking to Chris Perkins at Gencon, I've seem nothing written about it on the web. I want to know what is going on with it, so I started a thread on their forum HERE.
The Heroes of the Dungeon Crawl Basic Charts Edition is on Lulu for book or free download HERE
Sorry for the gratuitous plugs, but I want to keep this stuff bumped.
I have drawn the maps for the three levels of Danger in the Dwarven Dungeon. Most of the first level encounters are set along with many of the second. The third has a few. I would say I may be 40% done, if that. Just wanted to give the update. I plan to get back to work on making the book version of that map and Three Kings Island soon.
Labyrinth Lord is now available at Barnes & Noble for purchase. You can actually order it through a physical store and buy it there.
I have done just that. I hope to pick it up within the next week. Once I do that, I will begin to sketch ideas for a Module compatible with LL. I have actually started jotting ideas down, but there's NOTHING like having a rulebook to go through without having to stare at a computer. More details will surface in the weeks ahead.
Well, okay, I have a working title for it. I'm tentatively calling it Quest for the Sacred Tome. I'm setting it at an Abandoned Wizard's School near Dolmvay in The Known Lands setting. That's what I have at the moment, but it can all change. I post along with others at the Goblinoid Games Forum if you want to see what's happening in that community.
For the time being, the Three Kings Island stuff for HotDC and my LL stuff will be separate. I feel it's important to do it this way at this time. Danger in the Dwarven Dungeon and The Hero's Chronicle are the main two projects on the drawing board for Basic Old School Games.
Anyway, I wanted to point out two things from the Wizards of the Coast community.
I don't claim to have started this thread, but I joined in on it late. It is the petition to get old D&D books back into print. My post late in the thread talks about Print on Demand as an option. The thread, which has nearly 5500 views as of this writing, has over 100 signatures. I know, because I counted. Will it matter? Who knows, but it couldn't hurt. View the thread HERE.
The second one is about the 4.0 version of Basic D&D. I'm curious what is going on with this deal. Since talking to Chris Perkins at Gencon, I've seem nothing written about it on the web. I want to know what is going on with it, so I started a thread on their forum HERE.
Monday, October 1, 2007
Dungeon Squad Version 1.5
I have attempted to play with Dungeon Squad with what I call Version 1.5, which you can get by clicking HERE.
I am considering a few other touches, mainly an Adventure and Character Sheet, inspired by what Shathros did. However, I wanted to put this one out there now.
It is 20 Pages, but this is mainly because I laid it out differently, enlarged the print to 20 font and added the Creative Common License in the back. I also added page numbers if anybody wants to print it.
I considered putting it up on Lulu for free download and print at no profit option, but I didn't think that was within the spirit of the license. The Foreword section of the book explains what else I did. I hope you like it.
I am considering a few other touches, mainly an Adventure and Character Sheet, inspired by what Shathros did. However, I wanted to put this one out there now.
It is 20 Pages, but this is mainly because I laid it out differently, enlarged the print to 20 font and added the Creative Common License in the back. I also added page numbers if anybody wants to print it.
I considered putting it up on Lulu for free download and print at no profit option, but I didn't think that was within the spirit of the license. The Foreword section of the book explains what else I did. I hope you like it.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
