For all of June, I am going to be focusing on the BECMI rules, the only* D&D I never really played.
(*I played a lot of Holmes, Moldvay, Cook and Marsh Basic through Expert and used some BECMI books.)
For my June Monster Mondays (and there are 5 of them!) I am going to focus on a monster that would have been appropriate for the boxed set I am reviewing that week. Also, I want to pick monsters I would have been likely to have used then OR ones I actually created back then. Thankfully for this I have been "given" my youngest son's old game computer (wait...didn't I buy this??) and it has the only DVD-ROM drives in the house now. I have been digging through some wonderful treasures I had semi-forgot I had.
So for this week, I want to do a creature that would have felt at home in the D&D Basic Set. My general rule today is if I could have encountered them in the Caves of Chaos, then they are good.
I was talking to my oldest son about this and he suggested Grimlocks. Honestly, it is perfect.
A lot of my own D&D world-building was built on the classics, and what is more classic than The Time Machine, both the book and the great 1960 George Pal directed film. The Grimlocks of D&D have a spiritual ancestor in the Morlocks of the H.G. Welles classic. Both creatures are essentially a human species that has "devolved" into a barbaric state. They even share some literature (and not literal) DNA with similar creatures from H.P. Lovecraft or Richard Sharpe Shaver's "deros". They would have been right at home in the Cave of Chaos. Especially since they fill an "uncomfortable" niche of what happens to humans who dedicate themselves to darkness and chaos. The Morlocks would have been still fresh in my mind in my early D&D days from the almost forgettable (expect by meI guess) 1978 Time Machine TV Movie.
I also like them for the witch connection. Grimlocks were popular monsters on Charmed where they are essentially low-level demons.
In my games, Grimlocks are much the same as they are in all sorts of D&D games. Save they are demon-worshipping cultists and their distrust of all other races (and their cannibalism) keep them from forming strong bonds to really rule the underworld.
Grimlock
Armor Class: 7
Hit Dice: 2+2*
Move: 120' (40')
Attacks: 1
Damage: 2-7 (1d6+1)
No. Appearing: 2-20 (0)
Save As: Fighter 4
Morale: 8
Treasure Type: Nil
Alignment: Chaos
XP Value: 30
Grimlocks are a blind subterranean race that attacks anyone and anything they do not know. They are descended from a group of human cultists that worshipped the foulest demons. Whether they were driven underground or sought it out on their own they have since moved far away from their original humanity into something more akin to a monster.
Their skin coloration is a dull gray and their milky white eyes appear to dull and sightless. Indeed the Grimlock is blind, but their senses of smell and hearing are so acute that they can still "see" in the complete darkness. They can sense vibrations so they are capable of spotting and attacking enemies, even invisible ones, up to 120' away. They do not use missile attacks and prefer to fight with clubs or rocks. Most are bald, but some have sparse dark hair on their heads, especially the females.
Grimlocks are stronger than average, 15 Strength, but they also have lower than average intelligence and wisdom (usually 9 or 8).
Grimlocks have lived in small isolated communities for centuries. They will keep prisoners to replace fallen members, at least until such prisoners can produce new Grimlocks for them. Prisoners, fallen Grimlocks, or any other enemy, once they are dead are eaten. Grimlocks have no use for, or understanding of, treasure save for weapons.
Despite being blind and immune to any effect that requires sight (a medusa attack for example) they loathe the sun and will avoid going to the surface world save for nights of the new moon.
Special Grimlocks can advance as far as the 4th level as a Warlock to a demonic cult.
Grimlocks and Troglodytes hate each other and will attack the other to the exclusion of all other enemies.
Some scholars believe that the human cultists that spawned the grimlock race had intermingled with lower demons to produce the first grimlocks. So far none of these scholars have ventured out of their lofty towers of learning, with plenty of sunlight, to put their theories to the test.
Monday, June 1, 2020
Sunday, May 31, 2020
June is BECMI Month
Tomorrow is June 1st. Crazy. Where did April and May go?
Well, I have been planning something like this for a bit now and I wanted to spend some time going over the D&D system I have the least familiarity with, at least in a proper sense.
The Basic, Expert, Companion, Masters, and Immortal Sets edited and written by Frank Mentzer.
Each week I will cover a different set with reviews of the main boxed set, associated products, and topics. In my case I am also going to compare these sets with versions I am much more familiar with such as the B/X sets from Moldvay, Cook and Marsh, Holmes Basic, and the D&D Rules Cyclopedia.
Now I am not going into these reviews blind, I have had experiences with these books before, some experiences even going back to the time when they were published.
But I never played the game using these rules.
When the BECMI rules came out I was firmly in the camp of AD&D. As the years went on I would adapt some BECMI products to my AD&D game and others I bought out of curiosity or interest.
So this will be a learning experience for me. I am not expecting any great insights to the D&D game or any esoteric knowledge. But who knows, maybe there is a tied bit here or there for me to learn.
Can't wait to find out.
Well, I have been planning something like this for a bit now and I wanted to spend some time going over the D&D system I have the least familiarity with, at least in a proper sense.
The Basic, Expert, Companion, Masters, and Immortal Sets edited and written by Frank Mentzer.
Each week I will cover a different set with reviews of the main boxed set, associated products, and topics. In my case I am also going to compare these sets with versions I am much more familiar with such as the B/X sets from Moldvay, Cook and Marsh, Holmes Basic, and the D&D Rules Cyclopedia.
Now I am not going into these reviews blind, I have had experiences with these books before, some experiences even going back to the time when they were published.
But I never played the game using these rules.
When the BECMI rules came out I was firmly in the camp of AD&D. As the years went on I would adapt some BECMI products to my AD&D game and others I bought out of curiosity or interest.
So this will be a learning experience for me. I am not expecting any great insights to the D&D game or any esoteric knowledge. But who knows, maybe there is a tied bit here or there for me to learn.
Can't wait to find out.
Friday, May 29, 2020
Kickstart Your Weekend: Bloodlines & Black Magic
You would think we had enough "Gritty Modern Supernatural Horror" RPGs out there. But nope! There is always room for more.
This one looks like could be fun too.
Bloodlines & Black Magic
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/stormbunny/the-bloodlines-and-black-magic-roleplaying-game?ref=theotherside
There is a free guide, not really a Quick Start, up on DriveThruRPG for you to check out.
It reminds me a little of Elizabeth Chaipraditkul's WITCH: Fated Souls and a little bit of KULT: Divinity Lost.
Only 48 hours left!
This one looks like could be fun too.
Bloodlines & Black Magic
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/stormbunny/the-bloodlines-and-black-magic-roleplaying-game?ref=theotherside
There is a free guide, not really a Quick Start, up on DriveThruRPG for you to check out.
It reminds me a little of Elizabeth Chaipraditkul's WITCH: Fated Souls and a little bit of KULT: Divinity Lost.
Only 48 hours left!
Wednesday, May 27, 2020
Motherland: Fort Salem for Dungeons & Dragons (all editions)
Last week was the Season Finale of Motherland: Fort Salem on the FreeForm channel. The season was great, start to finish. It had great characters that showed a lot of growth and at least three different "What the Hell!" moments in the last few minutes of the last episode.
If you have not been watching then you are missing out. Motherland gives us an alternate history where witches rose up during Salem and forged a pact with the then Colonies to protect the new country from their enemies. There are fewer states in the US and a large portion, The Cession, was given back to the Native Americans in return for their help and magic. The series follows three new witch recruits, Abby, Tally, and Raelle, as they go through Basic Training and survive as a unit.
There is a terrorist organization of rogue witches known as the Spree who resent the servitude that sends all witches to the Army.
Abigail Bellweather
Tally Craven
Raelle Collar
Scylla Ramshorn
If you have not been watching then you are missing out. Motherland gives us an alternate history where witches rose up during Salem and forged a pact with the then Colonies to protect the new country from their enemies. There are fewer states in the US and a large portion, The Cession, was given back to the Native Americans in return for their help and magic. The series follows three new witch recruits, Abby, Tally, and Raelle, as they go through Basic Training and survive as a unit.
There is a terrorist organization of rogue witches known as the Spree who resent the servitude that sends all witches to the Army.
Honor me, make a place for me and my kind and we will win your wars.
- General Sarah Alder to Massachusetts Bay Militia, Say the Words
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The show features a full cast of strong, interesting women characters. The leader of the Army is General Alder, a 300+-year-old witch, their drill sergeant is a woman. Even the President is an African-American woman. Men are either tertiary characters at best (the Witch-Father) or eye-candy (Abby's two boy toys). Tally doesn't even see a man until one gives up his seat for her so she can fly from California to Massachusetts. Not that men are put into a bad light. The Witch Father is respected and well-liked. Raelle's dad is proud of his daughter and worries about her. It's just their stories are not as important here. That's a nice change of pace really.
The witches are also not a Ms. Pac-Man trope. They are warriors, witches but also women and they are allowed to be all three. It really is quite enjoyable and very different from what I have seen in the past. It has been a fantastic first season.
I can't believe I have to wait a whole year to catch up on the Bellweather Unit and their battle against the Spree and "The Camarilla", the "Ancient Enemy" of all witches. This certainly sounds like a lot of fun. But can I wait that long?
The witches are also not a Ms. Pac-Man trope. They are warriors, witches but also women and they are allowed to be all three. It really is quite enjoyable and very different from what I have seen in the past. It has been a fantastic first season.
I can't believe I have to wait a whole year to catch up on the Bellweather Unit and their battle against the Spree and "The Camarilla", the "Ancient Enemy" of all witches. This certainly sounds like a lot of fun. But can I wait that long?
So what am I going to do? Easy. Convert them to D&D characters!
The witches of Motherland are perfect as adventurers really. They are great as a group with Abigail as their leader, Raelle as the healer and Tally as the seer. I don't know much about who or what the Camarilla is, but given what we saw in the last episode I am looking forward to it.
Witches vs. the Camarilla? Yeah. Sign me up!
Witches vs. the Camarilla? Yeah. Sign me up!
Basic D&D and D&D 5
D&D 5 is the latest and greatest version of the game but the Basic version from the early 80s is my game of choice these days. So I figure I can do both.
Basic D&D (1981)
In this version I would use one of my own Witch classes. But instead of Traditions, I would opt for family lines.
I am putting them all at 3rd Level since they "Finished Basic." I know. Dumb D&D joke.
I am putting them all at 3rd Level since they "Finished Basic." I know. Dumb D&D joke.
D&D 5th Edition
In this version, there is no proper witch class. There is a warlock of course, but that doesn't feel like the right call here. With their focus on combat, voice-based magic, leadership, and some healing the obvious choice is the Bard class. There is even a perfect sounding group for them, The College of War.
Abigail "Abby" Bellweather, of the East Coast Bellweathers, is the leader of the Bellweather Unit. She starts out in the show as an arrogant, if even spoiled, girl of privilege. By the end of the series she is the leader she was born to be. Even her rivalries with Raelle and fellow East Coast witch Libba Swythe become something different as she accepts the responsibility of what being a soldier-witch means.
Base Abilities
Strength: 12
Dexterity: 11
Constitution: 13
Intelligence: 14
Wisdom: 11
Charisma: 17
Hair: Drk. Brown
Eyes: Brown
Hair: Drk. Brown
Eyes: Brown
Basic D&D
Witch Level 3, Lawful
HP: 10 AC: 7
HP: 10 AC: 7
Tradition: Bellweather family (Leaders) (For this I will use my Amazon Witch Tradition)
Abilities: Windstirke*, Fighting Prowess
Spells: Fury of the Ancestors, Windshear* (Ritual), Suggestion
D&D 5th Edition
Bard Level 3, Lawful Good
HP: 21 AC: 11
HP: 21 AC: 11
Abilities: Bard Abilities, Spellcasting
Spells: Eldritch Blast, Thunderclap, Truestrike, Cure Wounds, Featherfall, Heroism, Thunderwave, Phantasmal Force, Suggestion
Tally comes from the depleted Craven line. All her aunts had gone to fight in the Army and they all died. She is the last of her line. She lived in the Matrifocal Allotment near Sacramento, California. She had not even seen a male until she answered her call of duty, an action her mother strongly wished her not to do. Her power is to "see." She can detect disguised and hidden objects or people and might be one of the most powerful seers to come up in the ranks in a long time.
Tally is a sweet girl who loves with all her heart because that is what she knows. She is fiercely loyal to her Unit.
Tally is a sweet girl who loves with all her heart because that is what she knows. She is fiercely loyal to her Unit.
Base Abilities
Strength: 11
Dexterity: 13
Constitution: 14
Intelligence: 13
Wisdom: 12
Charisma: 16
Hair: Red
Eyes: Brown
Hair: Red
Eyes: Brown
Basic D&D
Witch Level 3, Lawful
HP: 9 AC: 7
HP: 9 AC: 7
Tradition: Craven family (Seers) (For this I will use my Classical Witch Tradition)
Abilities: Windstirke*, Detect Evil
Spells: Foretell, Detect Invisible, Witch Sense
D&D 5th Edition
Bard Level 3, Neutral Good
HP: 24 AC: 11
HP: 24 AC: 11
Abilities: Bard Abilities, Spellcasting
Spells: Thunderclap, Truestrike, Detect Magic, Heroism, Identity, Thunderwave, Detect Thoughts, See Invisible
Raelle lived in the part of American known as the Chippewa Cession where the Indigenous Tribal Federations are. She is a healer of great power, like her mother was. Her mother was reported dead by the Army and Raelle blames the Army and Gen. Bellweather in particular. She doesn't want to be there and her plan was get enlisted to the infantry and get killed as soon as possible. Her attitude earned her the nickname "shitbird" from Abby.
Raelle attitude changed when she met and fell in love with fellow cadet Scylla Ramshorn.
Raelle attitude changed when she met and fell in love with fellow cadet Scylla Ramshorn.
Base Abilities
Strength: 12
Dexterity: 13
Constitution: 15
Intelligence: 12
Wisdom: 13
Charisma: 15
Hair: Blonde
Eyes: Blue
Hair: Blonde
Eyes: Blue
Basic D&D
Witch Level 3, Lawful
HP: 11 AC: 7
HP: 11 AC: 7
Tradition: Collar family (Healers) (For this I will use my Pagan Witch Tradition and Basic Witch Tradition)
Abilities: Windstirke*, Healing Touch (1d4)
Spells: Cure Light Wounds, Sleep, Heal Affliction
D&D 5th Edition
Bard Level 3, Chaotic Good
HP: 24 AC: 12
HP: 24 AC: 12
Abilities: Bard Abilities, Spellcasting
Spells: Thunderclap, Truestrike, Cure Wounds, Feather Fall, Healing Word, Sleep, Lesser Restoration, Warding Wind
Scylla is a "Necro" or a Necromancer. Because their power makes others uneasy they are quartered in a different part of the base. We learn that Scylla's parents were killed when she was young. She meets and falls in love with Raelle. Later we find out she is part of the terrorist organization known as The Spree, responsible for hundreds of deaths across the country. Her job was to recruit Raelle, but she actually fell in love with her.
Base Abilities
Strength: 11
Dexterity: 13
Constitution: 16
Intelligence: 14
Wisdom: 13
Charisma: 18
Hair: Black
Eyes: Blue
Hair: Black
Eyes: Blue
Basic D&D
Witch Level 4, Chaotic
HP: 13 AC: 7
HP: 13 AC: 7
Tradition: Ramshorn family (Necromancer) (For this I will use my Mara Witch Tradition)
Abilities: Glamour
Spells: Bewitch I, Lay to Rest, Dark Whispers, Hypnotize
D&D 5th Edition
Bard Level 4, Chaotic Neutral
HP: 35 AC: 12
Abilities: Bard Abilities, Spellcasting, Magic Initiate (Necromancer)
Spells: Chill Touch, Message, Minor Illusion, Toll the Dead, Truestrike, Bane, Charm Person, Disguise Self, Dissonant Whispers, Sleep, Enthrall, Lesser Restoration, Suggestion
Click here for her D&D Beyond Sheet.
Notes
For Basic D&D I linked to the Witchcraft Tradition that best fits each witch. If I were to do something more like this I might revive my old "War Witch Tradition." This is the ancient Celtic tradition of witches like The Morrigan and Scáthach.
For 5th Edition Bards felt like the closest match. I originally had Scylla as a Magic Initiate (Warlock) to cover her other magical abilities and to represent her membership in the Spree. But I changed it to Magic Initiate (Necromancer) to cover some of her Necro powers. She is still too low-level to really take advantage of the necromancy spells.
I considered making them all Sword-Pact Warlocks and taking a Magic Initiate Feat at first level to cover their various Traditions/Backgrounds. So Necromancer for Scylla, Cleric/Healer for Raelle, Bard for Abby and Wizard for Tally. That might still work well to be honest.
*Windstrike is the basic attack ability of a Warrior Witch. With her voice the witch can cause 1d6+1 hp of damage.
*Windshear is a ritual spell performed by multiple witches. It is a shield from attack and it destroys whatever comes in contact with it.
The Scourge is a flail like weapon used by all witches. It is long with a whip-like handle and a knob on the end that glows with the witch's magic. It is considered a +1 weapon and does 1d6+1 points of damage. In D&D 5th Ed it is considered an exotic weapon.
The real test will be doing stats for Sgt. Anacostia Quartermaine and Gen. Sarah Alder.
Other Editions of D&D
Building these characters was so much fun I could not help but think how other editions of D&D might work.
1st Edition AD&D
Bards are out because they are very different here. I would use Magic-users and let them dual-class into another class to help. Or even use Druids.
2nd Edition AD&D
Ah now here is a chance to really try something fun. Like 5th Edition, I would make them Bards, but I would also have them take the Blade kit from the Complete Bard Handbook. Again like 1st Ed, I might let them dual-class into another class OR just allow them to take the proper spells.
3rd Edition D&D
So many choices here. I would try out a Hexblade or Bladesinger for these. I mean really, a witch-army has the Forgotten Realms written all over it! Blasesigners and Witches of Rashemen are just about War Witches now.
4th Edition D&D
So many classes! Ok make them Pact of the Blade Warlocks, let them take a multiclass feat at first level to add the other class features they need. OR start them out as Witches from Heroes of the Feywild and then multiclass feats.
I might try each option on one character to see how it would work. The choice is obvious.
Notes
For Basic D&D I linked to the Witchcraft Tradition that best fits each witch. If I were to do something more like this I might revive my old "War Witch Tradition." This is the ancient Celtic tradition of witches like The Morrigan and Scáthach.
For 5th Edition Bards felt like the closest match. I originally had Scylla as a Magic Initiate (Warlock) to cover her other magical abilities and to represent her membership in the Spree. But I changed it to Magic Initiate (Necromancer) to cover some of her Necro powers. She is still too low-level to really take advantage of the necromancy spells.
I considered making them all Sword-Pact Warlocks and taking a Magic Initiate Feat at first level to cover their various Traditions/Backgrounds. So Necromancer for Scylla, Cleric/Healer for Raelle, Bard for Abby and Wizard for Tally. That might still work well to be honest.
*Windstrike is the basic attack ability of a Warrior Witch. With her voice the witch can cause 1d6+1 hp of damage.
*Windshear is a ritual spell performed by multiple witches. It is a shield from attack and it destroys whatever comes in contact with it.
The Scourge is a flail like weapon used by all witches. It is long with a whip-like handle and a knob on the end that glows with the witch's magic. It is considered a +1 weapon and does 1d6+1 points of damage. In D&D 5th Ed it is considered an exotic weapon.
The real test will be doing stats for Sgt. Anacostia Quartermaine and Gen. Sarah Alder.
Building these characters was so much fun I could not help but think how other editions of D&D might work.
1st Edition AD&D
Bards are out because they are very different here. I would use Magic-users and let them dual-class into another class to help. Or even use Druids.
2nd Edition AD&D
Ah now here is a chance to really try something fun. Like 5th Edition, I would make them Bards, but I would also have them take the Blade kit from the Complete Bard Handbook. Again like 1st Ed, I might let them dual-class into another class OR just allow them to take the proper spells.
3rd Edition D&D
So many choices here. I would try out a Hexblade or Bladesinger for these. I mean really, a witch-army has the Forgotten Realms written all over it! Blasesigners and Witches of Rashemen are just about War Witches now.
4th Edition D&D
So many classes! Ok make them Pact of the Blade Warlocks, let them take a multiclass feat at first level to add the other class features they need. OR start them out as Witches from Heroes of the Feywild and then multiclass feats.
I might try each option on one character to see how it would work. The choice is obvious.
Tuesday, May 26, 2020
Review: ePic Character Generator
I like to think I have some solid talents. I am at an age where I know what I can do well and what I still need to learn how to do better. And what I am terrible at.
I am a terrible artist. I don't even try anymore. That's fine really. I know plenty of great artists and the things I am good at have allowed me a lifestyle where I can buy the art I want. But I still love to create. And that is where character generation software comes in.
I was a HUGE fan of the Brazilian Factory of Heroes (Fábrica de Herois), the City of Heroes character builder, the Skyrim one, and the character builder with the added benefit of 3D-Printed minis, Hero Forge.
A few weeks ago I was in the market for a new character builder, potentially one for a project I have coming up. Well in one of those rare instances of serendipity while I was doing my Google searches I was approached by András Bondor of Overhead Games.
András offered to send me a copy of the ePic Character Generator to try out. I figured it would be fun. Well it is. I'll get into the details in a bit.
The character builder is free. You can download it and start right away. There are even ways to gain free "packs" of design elements. Their model, and I think it is a good one, is to charge for various design packs. You see something you want, say the "Sorcerer" pack or the "Drow Spellcaster" pack then you can purchase them and add them to your suite. You get four packs for free to start, "Female", "Male", "Large Male" (think demons and centaurs), and "Season #1" which combines a lot of smaller releases.
Prices range from $5 to $150. So there is a pack for every budget. There is a special perk I am going to talk about later, but it helps offset those costs for me.
For this review, I built a bunch of characters over the last month or so, but for today I'll walk through the building of my new favorite character, Maryah, a Ranger for Old-School Essentials.
Your opening screen has the four basic packs I mentioned above. If you are going with just the free version for now then the Female pack has the most options. Click on your pack and hit "Start".
Now at this point you might want to click on the tutorial first. But I'll leave that to you.
Clicking start gives you the Female demo pack. In my screens, you see the other packs I have installed. Hey, you know me, if I can't make a witch first thing then I lose interest pretty fast. ;)
You can choose a pack and start with that. OR you can choose Load Fantasy, Load Modern, or Load All. Typically I like to load all. The advantage is you can mix and match all your elements in one design. The disadvantage is you have lots of screens you might have to click through.
Once you do that you are given a workspace and your new character. You can try clicking on "Random" to see what you get or click through the various options.
"Skin" also includes species options. So if you want a drow, an elf, a catgirl, or even a zombie this where you start.
There are options for scars, tattoos, and even dirt. These options are a little limited. For example, you can't design your own tattoo nor move the presets around.
Some options also exist as "Presets." So in the "Hair Preset" it is a style and a color. But what if you want a style, but a different color. Or a different color anything for that matter? There is a color palate wheel at the middle bottom of your screen that will allow you to change the color of your current selection. You move your cursor to the desired color and get a standard RGB notation for it as well as a palette of recently used colors. The ability to type on the RGB numbers is a great plus. I might not be able to move my mouse where I want it exactly, but I can type in the numbers.
The ability to do this helps when matching clothes later on. After the body mods you can then choose how your character appears. Different packs give you different options. since I am working on a ranger here, I am going to choose light armor/clothing and favor greens.
You can choose all sorts of items like weapons, back items. and even magic effects.
You can also add tails, horns wings and other elements depending on your packs.
Lastly there are backgrounds and other effects. In this section there are a lot of backgrounds, or you can choose to make the background clear. You can add companions as well. I rather like the choices of the animal companions, but the people companions look a touch "off" to me. No fault of the software or the design team, I think it is a bit of an "uncanny valley" situation.
You can also move any element to the foreground or background.
In this section there are also auras, magical effects, and other items.
The BEST part of this section is the ability to take your character and make Tokens or Cards. I have not tried to save these and import them into software like Roll20, but I can't see that it would be difficult.
If you have the paid version you can also remove (or turn back on) the Logo.
NOW here is my least favorite part of this software.
Saving and Loading is not at all intuitive.
You click "Settings" then are given the option to "Save" or "Load".
Thankfully if you attempt to exit or go back without saving you will be warned about losing your characters. You can also export your files as a PNG (with optional transparent background) or as Photoshop PSD (if you purchase that option). Every element in the software is saved as a layer in the PSD file. Very convenient really.
Other Packs give you the option of making character portraits or monsters.
Honestly even with just a couple of packs, including the free ones, you can have a nearly endless supply of choices. Of course, the packs are very, very tempting and I have been very pleased with the ones I have grabbed. Overhead Games is always making more.
I did try the software out on my Chromebook as well, installed via GooglePlay and it worked well enough. Not enough to make me want to switch over from my Windows 10 machine, but it is an option.
The big thing that caught my eye was their full Commercial License. Yup, if I want to create some art here and add to one of my books I can do that! It won't (nor is it intended to) replace an artist, but it will give me some spot art or filler art for characters. Especially the portrait options.
Overhead Games has strong customer service and support. In the short while I have been using it I received a customer questionnaire asking about features and prices. They also have customer forums where others share tips, tricks, and creations. All my interactions with the company have been great and they are eager to answer any questions.
Another perk are the updates. The software is updated often. In fact sometimes I went in to my software and was told: "because you purchased XXXX we are including YYYY now for free." Or something to that effect.
If you are already competent with any 3D art software like Daz3D then you won't need this.
BUT if you are like me and can't even draw a stick figure OR you just want something designed to do RPG-style art then this is a good buy. It is at least worth the download.
I have played around with it for a while now and I have been able to create most characters I wanted. I did try to create a passable "Batman" but it did not turn out the way I wanted, but that is much harder to do really, and I am sure Overhead Games wants to avoid people being able to create such a recognizable character.
I was able to get a couple great looking versions of Larina.
It was worth getting the Sorcerer pack for the broom and witches hat. I know what my priorities are.
Plus some classic D&D characters I'll talk about more next week. Aleena and Morgan Ironwolf!
I even made a card, exported and edited in Photoshop. Pretty much set up for an RPG as is.
So yes the ePic Character Generator is a ton of fun. I also see a use for it in the future for some books, but I'll have to judge that according to the book since I most often prefer older looking art.
The pricing model is also great.
My only complaint is the saving and loading features, but otherwise it is a fantastic bit of software. I can't to make some more characters and see what else this can do.
Get it here: https://overheadgames.com/epic-character-generator/
I am a terrible artist. I don't even try anymore. That's fine really. I know plenty of great artists and the things I am good at have allowed me a lifestyle where I can buy the art I want. But I still love to create. And that is where character generation software comes in.
I was a HUGE fan of the Brazilian Factory of Heroes (Fábrica de Herois), the City of Heroes character builder, the Skyrim one, and the character builder with the added benefit of 3D-Printed minis, Hero Forge.
A few weeks ago I was in the market for a new character builder, potentially one for a project I have coming up. Well in one of those rare instances of serendipity while I was doing my Google searches I was approached by András Bondor of Overhead Games.
András offered to send me a copy of the ePic Character Generator to try out. I figured it would be fun. Well it is. I'll get into the details in a bit.
The character builder is free. You can download it and start right away. There are even ways to gain free "packs" of design elements. Their model, and I think it is a good one, is to charge for various design packs. You see something you want, say the "Sorcerer" pack or the "Drow Spellcaster" pack then you can purchase them and add them to your suite. You get four packs for free to start, "Female", "Male", "Large Male" (think demons and centaurs), and "Season #1" which combines a lot of smaller releases.
Prices range from $5 to $150. So there is a pack for every budget. There is a special perk I am going to talk about later, but it helps offset those costs for me.
For this review, I built a bunch of characters over the last month or so, but for today I'll walk through the building of my new favorite character, Maryah, a Ranger for Old-School Essentials.
Your opening screen has the four basic packs I mentioned above. If you are going with just the free version for now then the Female pack has the most options. Click on your pack and hit "Start".
Now at this point you might want to click on the tutorial first. But I'll leave that to you.
Clicking start gives you the Female demo pack. In my screens, you see the other packs I have installed. Hey, you know me, if I can't make a witch first thing then I lose interest pretty fast. ;)
You can choose a pack and start with that. OR you can choose Load Fantasy, Load Modern, or Load All. Typically I like to load all. The advantage is you can mix and match all your elements in one design. The disadvantage is you have lots of screens you might have to click through.
Once you do that you are given a workspace and your new character. You can try clicking on "Random" to see what you get or click through the various options.
"Skin" also includes species options. So if you want a drow, an elf, a catgirl, or even a zombie this where you start.
There are options for scars, tattoos, and even dirt. These options are a little limited. For example, you can't design your own tattoo nor move the presets around.
Some options also exist as "Presets." So in the "Hair Preset" it is a style and a color. But what if you want a style, but a different color. Or a different color anything for that matter? There is a color palate wheel at the middle bottom of your screen that will allow you to change the color of your current selection. You move your cursor to the desired color and get a standard RGB notation for it as well as a palette of recently used colors. The ability to type on the RGB numbers is a great plus. I might not be able to move my mouse where I want it exactly, but I can type in the numbers.
The ability to do this helps when matching clothes later on. After the body mods you can then choose how your character appears. Different packs give you different options. since I am working on a ranger here, I am going to choose light armor/clothing and favor greens.
You can choose all sorts of items like weapons, back items. and even magic effects.
You can also add tails, horns wings and other elements depending on your packs.
Lastly there are backgrounds and other effects. In this section there are a lot of backgrounds, or you can choose to make the background clear. You can add companions as well. I rather like the choices of the animal companions, but the people companions look a touch "off" to me. No fault of the software or the design team, I think it is a bit of an "uncanny valley" situation.
You can also move any element to the foreground or background.
In this section there are also auras, magical effects, and other items.
Let's move Threnody to the front. |
The BEST part of this section is the ability to take your character and make Tokens or Cards. I have not tried to save these and import them into software like Roll20, but I can't see that it would be difficult.
If you have the paid version you can also remove (or turn back on) the Logo.
NOW here is my least favorite part of this software.
Saving and Loading is not at all intuitive.
You click "Settings" then are given the option to "Save" or "Load".
Thankfully if you attempt to exit or go back without saving you will be warned about losing your characters. You can also export your files as a PNG (with optional transparent background) or as Photoshop PSD (if you purchase that option). Every element in the software is saved as a layer in the PSD file. Very convenient really.
Not sure why her hair lost it color, but that is not a big deal. |
Honestly even with just a couple of packs, including the free ones, you can have a nearly endless supply of choices. Of course, the packs are very, very tempting and I have been very pleased with the ones I have grabbed. Overhead Games is always making more.
I did try the software out on my Chromebook as well, installed via GooglePlay and it worked well enough. Not enough to make me want to switch over from my Windows 10 machine, but it is an option.
Chrome vs. Windows 10 |
Overhead Games has strong customer service and support. In the short while I have been using it I received a customer questionnaire asking about features and prices. They also have customer forums where others share tips, tricks, and creations. All my interactions with the company have been great and they are eager to answer any questions.
Another perk are the updates. The software is updated often. In fact sometimes I went in to my software and was told: "because you purchased XXXX we are including YYYY now for free." Or something to that effect.
If you are already competent with any 3D art software like Daz3D then you won't need this.
BUT if you are like me and can't even draw a stick figure OR you just want something designed to do RPG-style art then this is a good buy. It is at least worth the download.
I have played around with it for a while now and I have been able to create most characters I wanted. I did try to create a passable "Batman" but it did not turn out the way I wanted, but that is much harder to do really, and I am sure Overhead Games wants to avoid people being able to create such a recognizable character.
I was able to get a couple great looking versions of Larina.
It was worth getting the Sorcerer pack for the broom and witches hat. I know what my priorities are.
Plus some classic D&D characters I'll talk about more next week. Aleena and Morgan Ironwolf!
I even made a card, exported and edited in Photoshop. Pretty much set up for an RPG as is.
So yes the ePic Character Generator is a ton of fun. I also see a use for it in the future for some books, but I'll have to judge that according to the book since I most often prefer older looking art.
The pricing model is also great.
My only complaint is the saving and loading features, but otherwise it is a fantastic bit of software. I can't to make some more characters and see what else this can do.
Get it here: https://overheadgames.com/epic-character-generator/
Monday, May 25, 2020
Monstrous Mondays: Blood Goblin (Hæmogoblin)
Here is a nasty little beastie from WAY back in my past. I used these guys in AD&D 2nd Ed and then again for Ghosts of Albion where they were a big part of my Obsession adventure.
Blood Goblin (Hæmogoblin)
Undead faerie
Frequency: Very Rare
No. Enc.: 1-4 (1-6)
Alignment: Chaotic (Chaotic Evil)
Movement: 120' (40') [12"]
Armor Class: 6 [13]
Hit Dice: 4d8+4** (22 hp)
Attacks: 2 claws/1 bite (blood drain)
Damage: 1d4+1, 1d4+1, 1d6 + blood drain
Special: Acidic blood, 1d4 on touch, only harmed by silver, track by scent
Size: Small
Save: Monster 5
Morale: 7
Treasure Hoard Class:
XP: 225
Blood Goblins are nasty little beasties. Nominally part of the faerie, their essences have been corrupted by a vampiric or demonic power. The ritual to turn a faerie into a blood goblin is unknown to most mortals, but what is known is it is dark and evil and requires the vampire or demon to bind the potential blood goblin to feed it some of its own foul blood.
Once complete the faerie undergoes a horrible transformation. Their form becomes a twisted parody of what it once was. Wings (if they had them) wither and fall off. Teeth grow long and sharp. Their skin takes on the unhealthy look of a bruise or rotting flesh and thick acidic blood weeps from their pores. Arms grow long and their now taloned hands drag the ground. Their eyes turn completely milky white with no pupils visible.
They can speak, but it is difficult to understand them.
Blood goblins are bound to their master and will do his bidding. The trouble is most are far too dimwitted to be anything other than a nasty little killer. They enjoy hiding in alleys or darkened paths and ambush their targets. They have a keen sense of smell so often they need something that smells like the intended victim in order to attack them. But they can and will attack anything warm-blooded.
Like all undead blood goblins are affected by holy water, taking 2-8 hp of damage per vial. blood goblins also take damage from sunlight. Blood goblins take 10 hit points of damage for every round they are exposed to bright, full sunlight. A “Continual Light” spell will also cause 1d4 hp of damage. Also they are unaffected by any mind spells (“Charm”, “Hold”, “ESP”) or “Sleep”.
Blood goblins have infravision to 90’.
Blood Goblins turn as Ghasts.
Here are my original AD&D 2nd Ed stats for them.
Hæmogoblin
CLIMATE/TERRAIN: Any
FREQUENCY: Very Rare
ORGANIZATION: Solitary
ACTIVITY CYCLE: Night
DIET : Living beings
INTELLIGENCE: Low (5)
TREASURE: Nil
ALIGNMENT: Chaotic Evil
NO. APPEARING: 1 (1-4)
ARMOR CLASS: 6
MOVEMENT: 12”
HIT DICE: 4+4
THAC0: 16
NO. OF ATTACKS: 3 (claw/claw/bite)
DAMAGE/ATTACK: 1-8/1-8/1-10
SPECIAL ATTACKS: Blood Drain
SPECIAL DEFENSES: Can only be hit by silver or magic.
MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil
SIZE: S (3’ to 4’)
MORALE: Steady (11 - 12)
XP VALUE: 800
PSIONICS: Nil
The highest level of undead a human may obtain is arguably the Vampire. It’s ability to blend in with human or demi-human society is as much as an asset to it as it’s great strength and magic. However, many sub-human races are not suitable for vampiric conversion. Some sages claim it could be their force of will or life is relatively low. Others claim it is the gods that control the sprits (and not souls) of these humanoids that do not allow them to become vampires. It could be that vampires find these sub-humans distasteful. However some sub-humans have become undead. Undead gnolls (q.v. Shoovusa) and trolls (q.v. Spectral and Spirit Trolls) have been recorded. The Hæmogoblin is also such a creature.
Hæmogoblin’s, are created by vampires in need of a specialized servant. Creating a hæmogoblin is similar to creating any other type of vampire; blood is exchanged between the vampire and the victim. However to create the hæmogoblin the vampire needs to do something slightly different. The vampire uses any humanoid creature, (orcs, kobolds, goblins, hobgoblins, norkers, etc…) usually goblins are chosen, due to their size and manageability.
It should be noted that creatures as large as an ogre might be used, but none have ever been reported, also goblyns (from Feast of Goblyns) can not be used, they have already been converted using powerful magics.
The vampire master takes the humanoid victim and first drains it of most of its blood. The vampire then will regurgitate the purloined blood back into the humanoids mouth. The victim will swallow the blood and it’s transformation to undeath has begun. Usually by the next nightfall the victim will reawaken to full hæmogoblin status. The vampire lord can create a number of these creatures that is equal to its own hit dice, e.g. a 12 hit die vampire can create 3 (3*4 hit die=12) of these creatures. From this point the hæmogoblin will act as a servant somewhere between a homunculus/familiar and a vampiric slave.
Combat: Hæmogoblins attack with a claw/claw/bite routine. On any natural “20” rolled to hit with the bite attack the hæmogoblin will begin to drain the victim's blood at the rate of 1 CON point per round. The hæmogoblin can only be removed with a successful “Bend bars/Lift Gates” roll. The victim may not attack during the rounds an attempt to remove the hæmogoblin takes place. If the hæmogoblins are S size or smaller then up to two may be draining one victim at the same time. If the victim reaches 0 CON points then they die. Unless a “Bless” or “Remove Curse” spell is cast on the corpse it will rise the next night as a Ghast.
Hæmogoblins turn as Ghasts. Hæmogoblins cannot pass on their curse of undeath like the vampire to create other hæmogoblins, however, there is a 50% chance that any sub-human killed by a hæmogoblin will become a ghoul, with 5% of those becoming ghasts. These victims are free-willed, but they are at a disadvantage when encountering the vampire that created the hæmogoblin. They make their saves at –5 and are 25% more likely to fall under that vampire’s control.
Like all undead hæmogoblins are affected by holy water, taking 2-8 hp of damage per vial. Hæmogoblins also take damage from sunlight. Hæmogoblins take 10 hit points of damage for every round they are exposed to bright, full sunlight. A “Continual Light” spell will also cause 1d4 hp of damage. Also they are unaffected by any mind spells (“Charm”, “Hold”, “ESP”), or “Sleep”.
Hæmogoblins have infravision to 90’.
Habitat/Society: Hæmogoblin’s are created undead, none will occur “naturally”. They can be most often found in or near the lairs of vampires. Crypts are very commonplace for hæmogoblins. They have been known to associate with ghouls for increased protection and hunting. Hæmogoblin’s prefer to eat living humans and humanoids. Often however they are forced to eat the scraps left to them by their vampire masters. If hard-pressed hæmogoblins will eat corpses.
Most hæmogoblins encountered will be in the service of a vampire lord/lady. They are often used as spies for the vampire. In one recorded incident a vampire set up one his own Hæmogoblins as a scapegoat to cover his own tracks. While any angry mob was dealing with the hæmogoblin, the vampire left the area.
Unlike a true familiar, the vampire suffers no ill effects if his hæmogoblin is destroyed.
Ecology: Hæmogoblins are undead and produce nothing. While the corpses of hæmogoblins may be useful to necromancers or sages, they have nothing else of value.
Blood Goblin (Hæmogoblin)
Undead faerie
Frequency: Very Rare
No. Enc.: 1-4 (1-6)
Alignment: Chaotic (Chaotic Evil)
Movement: 120' (40') [12"]
Armor Class: 6 [13]
Hit Dice: 4d8+4** (22 hp)
Attacks: 2 claws/1 bite (blood drain)
Damage: 1d4+1, 1d4+1, 1d6 + blood drain
Special: Acidic blood, 1d4 on touch, only harmed by silver, track by scent
Size: Small
Save: Monster 5
Morale: 7
Treasure Hoard Class:
XP: 225
Blood Goblins are nasty little beasties. Nominally part of the faerie, their essences have been corrupted by a vampiric or demonic power. The ritual to turn a faerie into a blood goblin is unknown to most mortals, but what is known is it is dark and evil and requires the vampire or demon to bind the potential blood goblin to feed it some of its own foul blood.
Once complete the faerie undergoes a horrible transformation. Their form becomes a twisted parody of what it once was. Wings (if they had them) wither and fall off. Teeth grow long and sharp. Their skin takes on the unhealthy look of a bruise or rotting flesh and thick acidic blood weeps from their pores. Arms grow long and their now taloned hands drag the ground. Their eyes turn completely milky white with no pupils visible.
They can speak, but it is difficult to understand them.
Blood goblins are bound to their master and will do his bidding. The trouble is most are far too dimwitted to be anything other than a nasty little killer. They enjoy hiding in alleys or darkened paths and ambush their targets. They have a keen sense of smell so often they need something that smells like the intended victim in order to attack them. But they can and will attack anything warm-blooded.
Like all undead blood goblins are affected by holy water, taking 2-8 hp of damage per vial. blood goblins also take damage from sunlight. Blood goblins take 10 hit points of damage for every round they are exposed to bright, full sunlight. A “Continual Light” spell will also cause 1d4 hp of damage. Also they are unaffected by any mind spells (“Charm”, “Hold”, “ESP”) or “Sleep”.
Blood goblins have infravision to 90’.
Blood Goblins turn as Ghasts.
Here are my original AD&D 2nd Ed stats for them.
Hæmogoblin
CLIMATE/TERRAIN: Any
FREQUENCY: Very Rare
ORGANIZATION: Solitary
ACTIVITY CYCLE: Night
DIET : Living beings
INTELLIGENCE: Low (5)
TREASURE: Nil
ALIGNMENT: Chaotic Evil
NO. APPEARING: 1 (1-4)
ARMOR CLASS: 6
MOVEMENT: 12”
HIT DICE: 4+4
THAC0: 16
NO. OF ATTACKS: 3 (claw/claw/bite)
DAMAGE/ATTACK: 1-8/1-8/1-10
SPECIAL ATTACKS: Blood Drain
SPECIAL DEFENSES: Can only be hit by silver or magic.
MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil
SIZE: S (3’ to 4’)
MORALE: Steady (11 - 12)
XP VALUE: 800
PSIONICS: Nil
The highest level of undead a human may obtain is arguably the Vampire. It’s ability to blend in with human or demi-human society is as much as an asset to it as it’s great strength and magic. However, many sub-human races are not suitable for vampiric conversion. Some sages claim it could be their force of will or life is relatively low. Others claim it is the gods that control the sprits (and not souls) of these humanoids that do not allow them to become vampires. It could be that vampires find these sub-humans distasteful. However some sub-humans have become undead. Undead gnolls (q.v. Shoovusa) and trolls (q.v. Spectral and Spirit Trolls) have been recorded. The Hæmogoblin is also such a creature.
Hæmogoblin’s, are created by vampires in need of a specialized servant. Creating a hæmogoblin is similar to creating any other type of vampire; blood is exchanged between the vampire and the victim. However to create the hæmogoblin the vampire needs to do something slightly different. The vampire uses any humanoid creature, (orcs, kobolds, goblins, hobgoblins, norkers, etc…) usually goblins are chosen, due to their size and manageability.
It should be noted that creatures as large as an ogre might be used, but none have ever been reported, also goblyns (from Feast of Goblyns) can not be used, they have already been converted using powerful magics.
The vampire master takes the humanoid victim and first drains it of most of its blood. The vampire then will regurgitate the purloined blood back into the humanoids mouth. The victim will swallow the blood and it’s transformation to undeath has begun. Usually by the next nightfall the victim will reawaken to full hæmogoblin status. The vampire lord can create a number of these creatures that is equal to its own hit dice, e.g. a 12 hit die vampire can create 3 (3*4 hit die=12) of these creatures. From this point the hæmogoblin will act as a servant somewhere between a homunculus/familiar and a vampiric slave.
Combat: Hæmogoblins attack with a claw/claw/bite routine. On any natural “20” rolled to hit with the bite attack the hæmogoblin will begin to drain the victim's blood at the rate of 1 CON point per round. The hæmogoblin can only be removed with a successful “Bend bars/Lift Gates” roll. The victim may not attack during the rounds an attempt to remove the hæmogoblin takes place. If the hæmogoblins are S size or smaller then up to two may be draining one victim at the same time. If the victim reaches 0 CON points then they die. Unless a “Bless” or “Remove Curse” spell is cast on the corpse it will rise the next night as a Ghast.
Hæmogoblins turn as Ghasts. Hæmogoblins cannot pass on their curse of undeath like the vampire to create other hæmogoblins, however, there is a 50% chance that any sub-human killed by a hæmogoblin will become a ghoul, with 5% of those becoming ghasts. These victims are free-willed, but they are at a disadvantage when encountering the vampire that created the hæmogoblin. They make their saves at –5 and are 25% more likely to fall under that vampire’s control.
Like all undead hæmogoblins are affected by holy water, taking 2-8 hp of damage per vial. Hæmogoblins also take damage from sunlight. Hæmogoblins take 10 hit points of damage for every round they are exposed to bright, full sunlight. A “Continual Light” spell will also cause 1d4 hp of damage. Also they are unaffected by any mind spells (“Charm”, “Hold”, “ESP”), or “Sleep”.
Hæmogoblins have infravision to 90’.
Habitat/Society: Hæmogoblin’s are created undead, none will occur “naturally”. They can be most often found in or near the lairs of vampires. Crypts are very commonplace for hæmogoblins. They have been known to associate with ghouls for increased protection and hunting. Hæmogoblin’s prefer to eat living humans and humanoids. Often however they are forced to eat the scraps left to them by their vampire masters. If hard-pressed hæmogoblins will eat corpses.
Most hæmogoblins encountered will be in the service of a vampire lord/lady. They are often used as spies for the vampire. In one recorded incident a vampire set up one his own Hæmogoblins as a scapegoat to cover his own tracks. While any angry mob was dealing with the hæmogoblin, the vampire left the area.
Unlike a true familiar, the vampire suffers no ill effects if his hæmogoblin is destroyed.
Ecology: Hæmogoblins are undead and produce nothing. While the corpses of hæmogoblins may be useful to necromancers or sages, they have nothing else of value.
Friday, May 22, 2020
#FollowFriday
On Twitter #FollowFriday is a long-established Friday tradition. You post your tweet with the #FollowFriday hashtag to get more followers.
Well today I want to do to bring your attention to some lesser-known or lesser trafficked social media sites.
This is the next evolution of The Best Blog You Are Not Following. This moves a bit beyond blogs into all social media.
I'll post my links and if you have any you want to share post them below. Just keep them on topic.
Ove on Facebook there is a lot great D&D and RPG groups. If I posted one a week I would still be posting in a year or more. Today I want to share a couple.
I'd Rather Be Killing Monsters
https://www.facebook.com/groups/776216536226728
This group covers the same sort of material you will see here. Started by Tim Knight of Hero Press fame it is RPG and geeky media focused.
Victorian Gamers Association
https://www.facebook.com/groups/VictorianGamersAssociation
This group is one I run and it is dedicated to all sorts of Victorian-era RPGs. Here we talk about the games and the Victorian-era, 1837 to 1901.
Over on Instagram there is a lot of great artists.
Wayne Reynolds Art
https://www.instagram.com/waynereynoldsart/
Wayne Reynolds has been making art for D&D and Pathfinder for years.
Djinn in the Shade
https://www.instagram.com/djinnintheshade/
Djinn is an old friend of the Other Side and she has some great D&D art and the lewd adventures of her D&D character Solaine.
If you prefer something more SFW, try her other site: https://www.instagram.com/djinninthebox/
MeWe is the newest Social Media kid on the block, and it shows, so let's give some of those groups some love.
Basic Fantasy and Table Top RPG
https://mewe.com/group/5bbcd4672ee15f2bb807556c
This is a group I am active in and it needs some more active participants. So please come by and join! Let me know you saw it here!
And here are my sites.
Personal Sites
The Other Side Sites
- The Other Side blog (hint, you are here now!)
- The Other Side Publishing at DriveThruRPG
- The Other Side Facebook Page
- MeWe Group
- The Other Side Tumblr
Post your links below.
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