Author Topic: A series of one off games.  (Read 15021 times)

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Mixster

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A series of one off games.
« on: August 31, 2010, 11:22:33 AM »
So, I have a campaign I'm thinking of starting tabletop-wise, but I suspect it might be a little to hard for my regular friends.

Therefore I'd like to enlist the help of you min/maxers, I'd love to have 4-5 players that can test different parts of a few dungeons I'm designing, and see whether I'll need to tone down the power level.

I can run the history between the encounters, but it will be a bit hard, since not all the encounters will be encountered, but I want to test them all.

Anyway, if you are up for it here are the details:

THE DREADED 16!!!
[spoiler]1. What game system are you running (D&D, Call of Cthulu, Palladium, GURPS, etc.), and if applicable what edition (Original, Classic, Revised, 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 5th, 10th, etc.)? 3.5e
2. What 'type' or variant of game will it be (i.e. "Shadow Chasers" or "Agents of Psi" for d20 Modern)? What is the setting for the game (eg. historic period, published or homebrewed campaign setting, alternate reality, modern world, etc.)? Different types of boss-battles, and dungeon crawling, as well as the occasional riddle
3. How many Players are you looking for? Will you be taking alternates, and if so, how many? 4-5 players
4. What's the gaming medium (OOTS, chat, e-mail etc.)? These forums.
5. What is the characters' starting status (i.e. experience level)? Level 12 gestalt, enough xp for halfway to level 13
6. How much gold or other starting funds will the characters begin with? 110,000
7. Are there any particular character classes, professions, orders, etc. that you want... or do not want? What are your rules on 'prestige' and/or homebrewed classes? Very limited homebrew, there's a list of surely allowed below, anything else is run by me, I'm pretty open to everything.
8. What races, subraces, species, etc. are allowed for your game? Will you allow homebrewed races or species? Those from the sources below.
9. By what method should Players generate their attributes/ability scores and Hit Points? 32 point buy.
10. Does your game use alignment? What are your restrictions, if so? Open for conversions of almost any class.
11. Do you allow multi-classing, or have any particular rules in regards to it? No penalties for multiclassing.
12. Will you be doing all of the die rolling during the course of the game? Will die rolls be altered, or left to the honor system? If players can make die rolls, which ones do they make, how should they make the rolls, and how should they report them? Some DM rolls (treasure, etc) are made secretly. Everything else is rolled using invisible castle
13. Are there any homebrewed or optional/variant rules that your Players should know about? If so, list and explain them, or provide relevant links to learn about these new rules. Treasure galore, all not fully casting classes can be edited to be so per request, they will lose some, but gain fully casting progression.
14. Is a character background required? If so, how big? Are you looking for anything in particular (i.e. the backgrounds all ending up with the characters in the same city)? None whatsoever, just testing right now.
15. Does your game involve a lot of hack & slash, puzzle solving, roleplaying, or a combination of the above? Hack and slash, possibly with touches of puzzle solving depending on individual player approach to obstructions. In the end it should involve everything, but you will mainly be testing puzzles and combat.
16. Are your Players restricted to particular rulebooks and supplements, or will you be allowing access to non-standard material? What sources can Players use for their characters? See below[/spoiler]

Surely allowed stuff:[spoiler]
Core (Player's Handbook, Dungeon Masters Guide, Monsters Manual 1-5, SRD)
Spell Compendium
Frostburn
Sandstorm
All Complete
All races of X
Tome of Battle
Savage Species
Expanded Psionics Handbook
Ebberron books (3.5)
Faerun (3.5)[/spoiler]

I hope I can get some good testers, and I promise you, it will be loads of fun, even though it isn't finished yet.

Oh and by the way, here is the background needed:

You all remember it like yesterday, when your hometown was raided by the red dragon, you were only on your way back home, from sailing the seas, when upon entering you see the mighty dragon destroy your entire town. When you came into town and found most of your loved ones dead, you and your fellow warriors swore revenge on the dragon.
To stop it from ever sacking a town again, you have been tracking the trail of destruction the dragon has set after it, you are now in a small town called Grimville, foraging before moving through the nearby forest to the mountains of frost, where the villagers have seen the red dragon land and nest, probably settling down for the winter, before moving out again. To raid and pillage, and kill more innocents. You have decided to end the terrible destruction of this dragon, and are therefore gathering your strength before deciding to push up to the dragons cave on the mountain top, it is hidden from sight, but you know the dragon is there, weak in the winter cold, and waiting for you.

Will you fulfil the oath you gave to your village? Or will the terrible dragon strike again?
« Last Edit: September 06, 2010, 09:23:57 PM by Mixster »
Monks are pretty much the best designed class ever.

JaronK

Meep Meep - Mixster out

PhaedrusXY

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Re: A series of one off games.
« Reply #1 on: August 31, 2010, 01:00:45 PM »
The power level of level 12 gestalted characters can vary tremendously... I mean... with an optimized gestalt Ur-Priest, for example, you can rip the top right off of things... That character uses some sources outside of what you have listed, but could essentially be done with only CDiv, SC, and BoVD, and he isn't even gestalt. Is that what you're shooting for here? With the crowd that regularly frequents this board, you're likely to get it without further restrictions.
« Last Edit: August 31, 2010, 01:03:00 PM by PhaedrusXY »
[spoiler]
A couple of water benders, a dike, a flaming arrow, and a few barrels of blasting jelly?

Sounds like the makings of a gay porn film.
...thanks
[/spoiler]

jolt

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Re: A series of one off games.
« Reply #2 on: August 31, 2010, 01:13:50 PM »
I agree, but on the other hand, I always wanted to play test a factotum/incantatrix myself. I wanna know if it's actually that crazy, or if you can still play it normally. Would you allow it?

Edit: If this is considered too overpowered, I have a MoMF/Psychic Warrior that I'd like to play test as well to see how strong he is at lvl12.
« Last Edit: August 31, 2010, 01:20:59 PM by jolt »

Amechra

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Re: A series of one off games.
« Reply #3 on: August 31, 2010, 01:58:23 PM »
Consider me highly interested, Mixster.

I've always wanted to play a Gestalt game, so can you save me a spot?
[spoiler]Fighter: "I can kill a guy in one turn."
Cleric: "I can kill a guy in half a turn."
Wizard: "I can kill a guy before my turn."
Bard: "I can get three idiots to kill guys for me."

On a strange note, would anyone be put out if we had a post about people or events we can spare a thought for, or if its within their creed, a prayer for? Just a random thought, but ... hells I wouldn't have known about either Archangels daughter or Saeomons niece if I didn't happen to be on these threads.
Sounds fine to me.
probably over on "Off-topic".
might want to put a little disclaimer in the first post.

This is the Min/Max board. We should be able to figure out a way to optimize the POWER OF PRAYER(TM) that doesn't involve "Pazuzu, Pazuzu, Pazuzu".
[/spoiler]

My final project for my film independent study course. It could do with a watching and critiquing

Mixster

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Re: A series of one off games.
« Reply #4 on: August 31, 2010, 06:47:44 PM »
The power level of level 12 gestalted characters can vary tremendously... I mean... with an optimized gestalt Ur-Priest, for example, you can rip the top right off of things... That character uses some sources outside of what you have listed, but could essentially be done with only CDiv, SC, and BoVD, and he isn't even gestalt. Is that what you're shooting for here? With the crowd that regularly frequents this board, you're likely to get it without further restrictions.

Yeah, I would love to have that, actually I'd prefer if people went overboard to see how crazy they could go, my scheduled encounters are kindda crazy afterall.
I know this wont be the same power level as a group of regular DnDers but I don't aim for that, I aim for testing at the maximum power level, and then adjust after that, the battles you rolled over I'm probably going to use as filler, and the battles you have trouble with I'll tone down or scrap.

Quote
I agree, but on the other hand, I always wanted to play test a factotum/incantatrix myself. I wanna know if it's actually that crazy, or if you can still play it normally. Would you allow it?

Edit: If this is considered too overpowered, I have a MoMF/Psychic Warrior that I'd like to play test as well to see how strong he is at lvl12.

Actually I'd love to see what a Factotum can do, but I'm not sure what book it is in?
If I get the source, I'm pretty sure I'll allow it.

I'll save a spot for you Amechra.
Monks are pretty much the best designed class ever.

JaronK

Meep Meep - Mixster out

jolt

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Re: A series of one off games.
« Reply #5 on: August 31, 2010, 06:59:34 PM »
Factotum is from Dungeonscape. Page 14 for what it's worth. This is what I had in mind, I don't think I'm allowed to take both Elf Wizard and Domain Wizard (UA) right? This is the feat selection without flaws.

Arctic Spellwarped Gray Elf

1. Wizard 1 / Spellwarped 1 (MM III p162)
2. Wizard 2 / Spellwarped 2
3. Wizard 3 / Spellwarped 3
4. Wizard 4 / Factotum 1 (Dungeonscape p14)
5. Wizard 5 / Factotum 2
6. Incantatrix 1 (Player's Guide to Faerun p62) / Factotum 3
7. Incantatrix 2 / Factotum 4
8. Incantatrix 3 / Factotum 5
9. Incantatrix 4 / Factotum 6
10. Incantatrix 5 / Factotum 7
11. Incantatrix 6 / Factotum 8
12. Incantatrix 7 / Warblade 1

Otyugh Hole: Iron Will (Complete Scoundrel p151)
1. Otherworldly (Player's Guide to Faerun p41)
3. Extend Spell
6. Item Familiar (Unearthed Arcana p170)
6. Sculpt Spell (incantatrix)
9. Flyby Attack
9. Persistent Spell (incantatrix)
12. Font of Inspiration http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=dnd/frcc/20070606
12. Quicken Spell (incantatrix)

Alternate Class Features / Substitution Levels:
Spontaneous Divination (Complete Champion p52)
Elf Wizard: 1st and 3rd (Races of the Wild p157)
Scribe Scroll --> Improved Initiative (Unearthed Arcana p59)
« Last Edit: August 31, 2010, 07:08:14 PM by jolt »

PhaedrusXY

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Re: A series of one off games.
« Reply #6 on: August 31, 2010, 07:09:46 PM »
So your guy would be able to Persist a ton of spells on the rest of the party for free, right jolt? The Ur-Priest I linked to was partied with an Incantatrix who did that. It frees up a TON of resources for all the other casters in the group. Instead of wasting a bunch of my build resources on DMM: Persist, I could instead load up on other nice things like Chain Spell (which I could apply for free via Anima Mage), which when applied to Greater Dispel Magic could wreak havoc on the other team's spellcasters. Especially since the Ur-Priest's CL was ~20 all the time, even at ECL 11, thanks to Consumptive Field (and a few other things I forget).

I honestly don't know if I even want to play in another game like that. It takes so much bookkeeping to keep up with it, and I really just don't have time for it. I have to admit that I'm tempted, though... especially if I could take a build I already have and adapt it fairly easily...
[spoiler]
A couple of water benders, a dike, a flaming arrow, and a few barrels of blasting jelly?

Sounds like the makings of a gay porn film.
...thanks
[/spoiler]

jolt

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Re: A series of one off games.
« Reply #7 on: August 31, 2010, 07:24:23 PM »
What can I say, high-powered tempts us ...

Mixster

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Re: A series of one off games.
« Reply #8 on: August 31, 2010, 08:14:05 PM »
Remember though, that if you join, some of these encounters are obscenely high powered, we are talking 2-4 CR ahead, I just want to see how much power gestalt gives, and you will be the lab rats so to speak ;)

There's no need for a background, but if you have one that would be great.

Also, if you are ready for trying the same encounter, toned down, if it beats you up, that's just better.

Oh, and my traps are rather evil, I just want to prepare you :D

But I would like to see what "can" be done within those sources.

Oh, and Dungeonscape and Cityscape are now in on the allowed list of material, so Factotum is in.

I really don't like the tome of magic though, and would prefer if anyone wanting to use it could steer clear, unless, I'd have to agree upon on a rule per rule basis.

My original thoughts are no flaws, and just standard feats. But if players want more to play around it I might up it to feat at each uneven level. (which gives 1 more feat according to my math).

There will be a few level ups during the game. But I don't expect it to go beyond level 16-18. Depending on the number of players.
Monks are pretty much the best designed class ever.

JaronK

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jolt

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Re: A series of one off games.
« Reply #9 on: August 31, 2010, 08:33:07 PM »
I had a background for this character but it totally doesn't work with your gameplan, so I'll probably write a new one for the application. I have one request though. How would you feel about me using the Hummingbird familiar? It's located in Dragon Magazine 323 p98 and gives +4 initiative. I'd hate a campaign that allows very high powered characters but let's them easymode through it all so bring on the challenge!

Mixster

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Re: A series of one off games.
« Reply #10 on: August 31, 2010, 09:16:59 PM »
That hummingbird sure is much better than all the regular familiar options, but since it has a harder time holding wands not sized for it, I'm going to allow it.
Monks are pretty much the best designed class ever.

JaronK

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jolt

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Re: A series of one off games.
« Reply #11 on: August 31, 2010, 09:26:15 PM »
Indeed it is, especially combined with the Elf Wizard substitution level 3 which gives Natural Link, doubling the bonus.
« Last Edit: August 31, 2010, 11:15:03 PM by jolt »

Amechra

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Re: A series of one off games.
« Reply #12 on: August 31, 2010, 10:48:51 PM »
What's your take on duel progression feats?
[spoiler]Fighter: "I can kill a guy in one turn."
Cleric: "I can kill a guy in half a turn."
Wizard: "I can kill a guy before my turn."
Bard: "I can get three idiots to kill guys for me."

On a strange note, would anyone be put out if we had a post about people or events we can spare a thought for, or if its within their creed, a prayer for? Just a random thought, but ... hells I wouldn't have known about either Archangels daughter or Saeomons niece if I didn't happen to be on these threads.
Sounds fine to me.
probably over on "Off-topic".
might want to put a little disclaimer in the first post.

This is the Min/Max board. We should be able to figure out a way to optimize the POWER OF PRAYER(TM) that doesn't involve "Pazuzu, Pazuzu, Pazuzu".
[/spoiler]

My final project for my film independent study course. It could do with a watching and critiquing

Mixster

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Re: A series of one off games.
« Reply #13 on: August 31, 2010, 11:21:59 PM »
What's your take on duel progression feats?

I'm really not sure what to do about them.

A daring outlaw at level 12 that is rogue//swashbuckler would in some reading have a ridiculous amount of sneak attack.

The way I usually prefer to do it is to keep each side of gestalt "clean" so to speak.
If for example, you take daring outlaw, you should only add it to one side.
I know this sort of nerfs the feat, but it is the best thing I can do to it. Master Spellthief would quite easily get quite ridiculous.

If you have any better ideas, I'd love to hear them
Monks are pretty much the best designed class ever.

JaronK

Meep Meep - Mixster out

Amechra

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Re: A series of one off games.
« Reply #14 on: September 01, 2010, 12:08:37 AM »
Good, I was hoping that that would be your answer.

Would Dahlver Nar's Shield Self ability redirect Ability Damage? It is a form of damage, after all.

Because if so...

Masochistic voodoo doll FTW!!!
[spoiler]Fighter: "I can kill a guy in one turn."
Cleric: "I can kill a guy in half a turn."
Wizard: "I can kill a guy before my turn."
Bard: "I can get three idiots to kill guys for me."

On a strange note, would anyone be put out if we had a post about people or events we can spare a thought for, or if its within their creed, a prayer for? Just a random thought, but ... hells I wouldn't have known about either Archangels daughter or Saeomons niece if I didn't happen to be on these threads.
Sounds fine to me.
probably over on "Off-topic".
might want to put a little disclaimer in the first post.

This is the Min/Max board. We should be able to figure out a way to optimize the POWER OF PRAYER(TM) that doesn't involve "Pazuzu, Pazuzu, Pazuzu".
[/spoiler]

My final project for my film independent study course. It could do with a watching and critiquing

Mixster

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Re: A series of one off games.
« Reply #15 on: September 01, 2010, 06:52:24 AM »
Good, I was hoping that that would be your answer.

Would Dahlver Nar's Shield Self ability redirect Ability Damage? It is a form of damage, after all.

Because if so...

Masochistic voodoo doll FTW!!!

Well, technically I haven't allowed the tome of magic yet, mainly because I think all the mechanics in there are screwed up.

I also have a very limited understanding of how it works, and I don't think it really is needed for many builds.

Dahlver-Nar is pretty simple to me, it actually says hit point damage, so only hit point damage apply.
Monks are pretty much the best designed class ever.

JaronK

Meep Meep - Mixster out

jolt

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Re: A series of one off games.
« Reply #16 on: September 01, 2010, 11:20:53 AM »
I started to make my character sheet, but I'd have to know how you're gonna deal with feats and flaws to get further. I'm a fan of one feat every odd level, but it's not essential for my build so I'm cool with everything.
« Last Edit: September 01, 2010, 11:44:13 AM by jolt »

Mixster

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Re: A series of one off games.
« Reply #17 on: September 01, 2010, 01:39:01 PM »
Ok, feats will be feats at every odd level, instead of every third.

So you will get feats at:

1, 3, 5, 7, 9 and 11, and when you level up at 13 and 15.

This gives you one more feat, I'm against flaws, since the drawbacks are always minor, and the feats are rarely so.
Monks are pretty much the best designed class ever.

JaronK

Meep Meep - Mixster out

Amechra

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Re: A series of one off games.
« Reply #18 on: September 01, 2010, 03:53:21 PM »
Oh well.

Say, will you allow any of the fighter variants from Drag. Mag.? I would like to have Targeteer and Fencer in my build, but the aren't necessary.

Will you allow Swiftblade/Half-Fey template? Or any of those fey-only feats from http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=dnd/fey/20030815a?

Finally, are anthropomorphic animals valid races? How would I go about calculating LA if I wanted to make one from one of the non-listed animals?

MM 2-4 are core, right?
[spoiler]Fighter: "I can kill a guy in one turn."
Cleric: "I can kill a guy in half a turn."
Wizard: "I can kill a guy before my turn."
Bard: "I can get three idiots to kill guys for me."

On a strange note, would anyone be put out if we had a post about people or events we can spare a thought for, or if its within their creed, a prayer for? Just a random thought, but ... hells I wouldn't have known about either Archangels daughter or Saeomons niece if I didn't happen to be on these threads.
Sounds fine to me.
probably over on "Off-topic".
might want to put a little disclaimer in the first post.

This is the Min/Max board. We should be able to figure out a way to optimize the POWER OF PRAYER(TM) that doesn't involve "Pazuzu, Pazuzu, Pazuzu".
[/spoiler]

My final project for my film independent study course. It could do with a watching and critiquing

Mixster

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Re: A series of one off games.
« Reply #19 on: September 01, 2010, 05:28:01 PM »
All the fighter variants are fair game.

Anthropomorphic animals, I'd prefer if you throw me something and I put a LA on it, base it of one of the already existing anthropomorphic animals, there are no concrete rules of doing it, sadly.

Swiftblade is fair game.

Half-Fey is fair game.

MM 2-5 are core IMO, yes. So is PH2 and DMG2

Monks are pretty much the best designed class ever.

JaronK

Meep Meep - Mixster out