First Two

New Semester

My final year of my Sociology degree has started. So far, it looks very interesting. It should be a year of mostly Sociology with a bit of Political Science. And yes, I do consider this post to be relevant to gaming. Many concepts from my classes are extremely helpful when I run or participate in a game. Frameworks and perspectives can be mined to create more realistic societies for the players to inhabit. As the year progresses I might post more detailed intersections of my interests.


A quick case in point: Currently I am in a PBF (Play By Forum) game of Battlestar Galactica over at boardgamegeek.com. One of the reasons I enjoy playing BSG is the social aspect of it. Much like the old B5 CCG, player interaction is vital to winning. Negotiation, deception, and tactical planning merge into an unpredictable experience. Human players spend the game struggling to survive long enough to find a new home for the fleet, while constantly trying to decipher the true loyalties of the other players. Cylon players (determined secretly and randomly) win by preventing a human victory by any means possible. While the theme may make it sound somewhat removed from the world of Political Science or Sociology, the heart of the game relies on an individual's ability to sway the actions of other. Cylons adept at feigning innocence and triggering misdirection have ruined more than one human group's chances of victory. Conversely, adept human players that can manage the oncoming disasters and deduce the nature of the other players have saved many fleets. I really want to incorporate the game into some projects this year.

To see how things are going on the U.S.S. Why-The-Frakk-Can't-We-Roll-Above-A-Two follow the link:
http://boardgamegeek.com/article/7317352#7317352

Design Strategy

1. I do not want to do a campaign setting (for the moment)

Blue Max is working on "The Black Desert" and Port Nova Media has already released "Astral Empire". Beyond OpenD6Space, there are also several other settings out, or planned, for Adventure and Fantasy. All of these settings are really new. Creating another setting risks diluting the market at a time when products with potential are just being established. I would rather avoid any accidental overlap and allow for them to grow naturally. If, down the road, I am confidant that I have an idea for a setting that is thematically distinct I would consider working on the project. Until then, I wish everyone else the best of luck with their own projects.

2. I want to avoid product line overlap

Annoyingly enough, Blue Max has been producing high quality ships. I would ordinarily be drawn to working on projects with a technical theme, however, it would be difficult for me to design such intricate ships. Blue Max's grasp on science and engineering really imbues the ships with a sense of realism. I don't have the same background. Ships I design would likely be less interesting. Choosing to work on an alien supplement first allows me to exist in my own space. After that, I want to mine my years of running d6 for some adventure supplements.

3. I want to stick to core OpenD6

While the various alternate d6 systems released under the OGL are interesting and provide useful rules revisions, I want to release products that are accesible to all OpenD6 Space players. Working in the core system allows my products to be universal.

Review: Blue Max Studios: Ships of the Black Desert

Detail and precision are the foundations of almost every design choice made by Blue Max Studios. While the only current product line is the "Ships of the Black Desert" series, every ship released is a fascinating window into the politics, engineering, and personal lives of the humans inhabiting his upcoming hard sci-fi setting. In addition to the background material, each ship has detailed floor plans, technical discussions, and an explanation of the role the ship plays in the universe. The results are a consistently fantastic product and a disappointing wait until the official campaign book is released.

While many of the ship stats use an OpenD6 variant designed for his setting, most of them are multi-statted. D20 Future, OpenD6, and Classic D6 are all systems that receive attention. The only real problem is the sporadic nature of the multi-statting. The systems featured vary between ship releases and change at random. This is the only inconsistent aspect of the series. Down the line, after he has released enough material, I hope to see the ships arrive in a collected volume that consistently multi-stats them for OpenD6 and The Black Desert.

Even if a collected volume is never released, the wealth of information provided can be used in any system. The detailed floor plans and maps allow for each ship to be used as an adventure location. The political system can be mined for factions to be lifted for a home campaign. The scientific and engineering details can be used to create more vivid space scenarios, with the characters using realistic technology.

Each ship retails on RPGnow for $4 -$5 apiece, however the first 10 can be bought as a bundle for only $10. At that price, the ships are a bargain because of the versatility and depth found within each file. Please keep making more ships Blue Max, just don't keep me waiting for the setting forever.

First Sketch Returned

Along the way, my plans for this blog changed. A simple blog where I could create interesting character builds was the extent of my ambition. Had I not read Blue Max's blog, it is very likely my plans would have remained unchanged.

Blue Max is a start-up OpenD6 designer and creator of the upcoming "Black Desert" hard science setting. Many of his ship designs are for sale on RPGNow, and I strongly recommend any fan of OpenD6 investigating his work further. His products are of very high quality, but I would rather save an in-depth discussion of his work for a proper review. As I investigated his work, I was drawn to his posts that detailed his design process. He describes how he was able to utilize an affordable publishing process to create an indie studio and then encourages others to do the same.

After reading his post, I couldn't shake the idea that publishing an OpenD6 supplement of my own was more than a daydream. Sensing that publishing had become a tangible possibility. I started the early phases of writing an Alien sourcebook. I then contacted an artist.

I have just received any early sketch for one of the aliens. I am thrilled by the work, and promise to post a playtest version of one of the aliens once the commissions are paid for and distribution rights secured. My job involves artistic copyrights so I intend to be a stickler for attribution and rights.

I look forward to giving another update on the project soon.

Fun With OGC + Update

Art is ... not an area in which I excel. Ordinarily, my inability to draw a line with a ruler is not a huge hindrance. As I plan what I want to accomplish with this blog, my sub-par artistic abilities are becoming an issue. It is less of an issue when preparing a free blog post. It only becomes an issue when I want to attach a monetary value to something I create. Including appealing art is a major component of publishing a professional product. Because I cannot provide it for myself, I must seek outside sources.

There is public domain art. Actually, there is a lot of public domain art. There is so much public domain art that it is difficult to find relevant material for what I want to accomplish. If I continue searching there is a good chance of finding something, however, the process is very time consuming. There is also the issue that even when the image may be used free of charge I may need to acquire model or location releases. Any public domain piece I want to use requires a painstaking vetting process if I want to avoid legal issues.

Instead of investing the time in public domain art I can simply commission art. There are amazing artists on DA who are affordable, however, even affordable art can become pricey quickly. Given that most of my current ideas are OpenD6 centric, I am concerned that spending money on art could become a good way to loose a lot of money.

There is also the option of going art-free. Cost is no longer an issue this way. There is no chance of choosing a copyrighted picture that was mislabeled public domain. While it might be the most affordable and safe path it is also the most boring.

I am currently debating which path to take. Once I decide, I will be able to create a more coherent plan for this blog.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
updates:

I have been working on the Character A Day project. I currently have several dozen sketched out. All that remains is to fully flesh them out before posting. I want to have several weeks of material before I start posting. Because of how involved the character creation process can be, the only way to go a year without missing a day is to plan ahead.

I am working on several OpenD6 projects. They are still in the early stages. When they are more developed I will announce them.



Crappy Pic of Guy at Computer, copyright July 27th, 2011. No Dan's Land. Daniel Loyd (The pic is designated as OGC. It's really too bad for keeping as IP.)

Finished My Summer Class

Well, that distraction is out the way. I can direct more time here once I rest up from the all-nighter. More soon.

Sample Character-A-Day: OpenD6 Squint

While there are many games I have played over the years, my very first one was d6. As soon as I saw the core book sitting on a shelf at Barnes and Noble, I knew I had to play it. My brother (the middle child) chipped in. We played it immediately upon returning home. We even still play it some today. The game has faded in popularity over the years, but it will hopefully never die thanks to Eric Gibson. As West End Games was in his death throes, Gibson released the system as OpenD6 under the OGL for everyone to use.

While I enjoy Pathfinder and True20, my heart will always be with OpenD6. In preparation for my Character-A-Day project I am releasing the stats for an OpenD6 character. His Stats are OGC, but name and description are IP.

In a few weeks I will start the Character-A-Day project proper. Until then, here is a sample.

Squint

Type: Scrounger (Rodent Alien)

Agility: 2D
dodge: 3D
Running: 3D

Strength: 2D
Climbing: 3D

Perception: 4D

Know How: 5D
Sneak: 5D

Knowledge: 2D
Scholar: Entomology: 4D
Scholar: Herpetology: 4D
Scholar: Hydroponics: 4D
Survival: 3D

Mechanical: 3D
Piloting: 3D

Technical: 4D
Computer Interface/repair: 5D
Flight System Repair: 5D
Robot Interface/repair: 5D
Security: 5D

Other Stats:
Funds 3D
Move: 8
Body Points: 27
Fate Points: 1
Character Points: 5

Advantages:
Trademark Specialization: Scholar: Hydroponics
Trademark specialization: Scholar: Entomology
Size: small (r2)
Quick Study: Technical

Disadvantages:
Hindrance (R1): Short Stride:Climbing/jumping +1, Running +1, Move -2
Quirky (R3)



Special Abilities: None

equipment:
Makeshift Armor: Armor Value +1, a handful of assorted bugs, 1 soft drink of choice, assorted robot spare parts (+1 to 1 skill when installed with a Very Difficult Robot Interface/Repair roll), clothing (1 size too big)

Squint would consider himself an optimist if he understood that pessimism existed. Endlessly happy, Squint is pleased with finding a dry place to sleep and a supply of bugs to eat. When sleeping and food are not enough to entertain him, tinkering on nearby appliances and robots keeps him occupied. Occasionally, he earns some money with his repair prowess, however, his inability to focus has made such endeavors semi-profitable at best.

Note: Squint has the unusual habit of using broad, and simplified terms to discuss subjects (sometimes interchangeably). When he is speaking about complex technical or scientific subjects the characters listening must succeed at a Very difficult Languages check to understand what he is saying. Squint cannot buy down his Quirky(R3) disadvantage, however other characters may learn enough of what he says to improve their understanding over time. (Languages: Squintspeak)

Squint,copyright July 19th, 2011. No Dan's Land blog. Daniel Loyd
Character-A-Day is IP.

Prestige Class: Brewmaster (Beta)

Brewmaster (Beta)

This entire prestige class is OGC. I have not written any desriptive text for it yet, if I do I will clarify that as IP. This class is meant for lower fantasy settings and is not necessarily on the same level as higher fantasy classes. I am not opposed to reworking this class to be a bit more powerful. I am also debating reworking the class into more of a herbalist theme with "poultices" replacing "concoctions".

Requirements:

Skill: Profession: Brewer 5 ranks, Profession (Any) 3 ranks or Craft (Any) 3 ranks, Knowledge (Nature) 3 Ranks

Hit Die: D6

Skills: Heal, Knowledge (Nature), Profession (All; Taken Separately), Craft (All; Taken Separately), Diplomacy, Sense Motive, Linguistics

Skill points: 2 + Int

A Brewmaster gains no armor or weapon proficiencies.

BAB	Fort	Ref	Will	Abilities	Concoctions	per	day
					1st	2nd	3rd
0	0	0	2	Minor Brew, Intuitive Brewing	2	--	--
1	0	0	3	Extra Kick	2	0	--
2	1	1	3	Quick Consumption	2	1	--
3	1	1	3	Extra Kick, Soothe Soul	3	2	0
3	1	1	4	Secret Recipe	3	2	1

Recipes Known

1st	2nd	3rd
2	--	--
3	1	--
4	2	--
4	3	1
5	3	2

Recipe List:

1^{st ---} Potions with a cost of 50 gp.

2^{nd ---} Potions with a cost of 300 gp.

3^{rd ---} Potions with a cost of 750 gp.

Intuitive Brewing (Ex): At first level, the Brewmaster gains the ability to brew herbal concoctions. This ability is similar to the ability granted by the feat Brew potion, with the following exceptions. The concoction is brewed as a standard action. It lasts 1 hour per class level, or until it is consumed. Concoctions are used as potions. A Brewmaster requires a Wisdom of 10 + 1 per concoction level in order to brew the concoction. Extra concoctions can be brewed per day based on Wisdom. This ability counts as Brew Potion for qualifying for Feats and Prestige Classes. The Caster level for all concoction effects are equal to the Brewmasters class level.

Minor Brew (Ex): At first level, the Brewmaster can create concoctions with one of the following effects – Stabilize, Virtue, Guidance. Minor Brews may be created any number of times per day. Minor Brews only last 1 minute per Class Level or until consumed. Minor Brews cannot benefit from any abilities granted by Extra Kick.

Extra Kick (Ex): At second Level, the Brewmaster selects one of the following effects. Once the choice is made, it is permanent. Every concoction made by the Brewmaster grants the effect when used. No character can benefit from more than one effect granted by this ability at a time. At fourth level, the Brewmaster makes another selection from the list. A character may choose the same Extra Kick more than once, with both effects stacking. If a different ability is selected, the Brewmaster selects one ability to imbue the concoction with at the time of creation.
Select one:

• +1 Insight bonus on the next Skill Check (Lasts for 1 hour or until triggered..)

• +1 Insight bonus on the next attack (Lasts for 1 hours or until triggered.)

• +1 Insight bonus on the next save (Lasts for 1 hour or until triggered.)

• +3 temporary hp. If the concoction would normally grant temporary hp, both effects stack. Otherwise, these temporary hp do not stack with temporary hp form any other source.

  (Lasts 1 hour or until depleted)

• The recipient may may one Knowledge Check as if trained or immediately retry one Knowledge check if the recipient is trained.

• +1d4 healing, even if the concoction would not normally grant healing

• +1 Insight AC Bonus on the next attack (Lasts 1 hour or until triggered)

• +10 feet to vision (Lasts 1 hour)

Soothe Soul (Ex):

At fourth level, The Brewmaster's concoction grants the recipient a +2 Insight bonus on saves versus Fear or Mind-Affecting effects. This is in addition to any other effects of the concoction. The bonuses granted by this ability stack with any bonus granted from Extra Kick.

Quick Consumption (Ex): At reaching third level, The Brewmaster can use a concoction as a move equivalent action that does not provoke, instead of a standard action. This applies to both personal use and when administering a concoction to an adjacent character.

Secret Recipe (Su)- At reaching fifth level, the Brewmaster select s one recipe from the following- Cure Critical Wounds, Break Enchantment, Remove Curse, Invisibility Greater. The Brewmaster can create a concoction with the ability selected 3 times per day + Wis modifier. The concoction lasts 1 minute or until consumed. Once consumed, it functions as the spell.

Pathfinder and associated marks and logos are trademarks of Paizo Publishing, LLC, and are used under license. See paizo.com/pathfinderRPG for more information on the Pathfinder Roleplaying Game.

Pathfinder is a registered trademark of Paizo Publishing, LLC, and the Pathfinder Roleplaying Game and the Pathfinder Roleplaying Game Compatibility Logo are trademarks of Paizo Publishing, LLC, and are used under the Pathfinder Roleplaying Game Compatibility License. See http://paizo.com/pathfinderRPG/compatibility for more information on the compatibility license.

Compatibility with the Pathfinder Roleplaying Game requires the Pathfinder Roleplaying Game from Paizo Publishing, LLC. See http://paizo.com/pathfinderRPG for more information on the Pathfinder Roleplaying Game. Paizo Publishing, LLC does not guarantee compatibility, and does not endorse this product.

Brewmaster (Beta), Copyright July 14th 2011, No Dan's Land Blog. Dan Loyd.

OGL - posted for ease of access

My plan is to use a link to this post as my OGL statement in everything I post. I am currently looking at supporting The Pathfinder Roleplaying Game and True 20. There are other OGL games out there, and I am very willing to explore those options as well. This just makes a good starting point. I have currently signed the agreement with Paizo. I plan on signing the True 20 agreement. I am also working on OpenD6.


Open Game License Version 1.0a

The following text is the property of Wizards of the Coast, Inc. and is Copyright 2000 Wizards of the Coast, Inc (“Wizards”). All Rights Reserved.

1. Definitions:

(a) “Contributors” means the copyright and/or trademark owners who have contributed Open Game Content;

(b) “Derivative Material” means copyrighted material including derivative works and translations (including into other computer languages), potation, modification, correction, addition, extension, upgrade, improvement, compilation, abridgment or other form in which an existing work may be recast, transformed or adapted;

(c) “Distribute” means to reproduce, license, rent, lease, sell, broadcast, publicly display, transmit or otherwise distribute;

(d) “Open Game Content” means the game mechanic and includes the methods, procedures, processes and routines to the extent such content does not embody the Product Identity and is an enhancement over the prior art and any additional content clearly identified as Open Game Content by the Contributor, and means any work covered by this License, including translations and derivative works under copyright law, but specifically excludes Product Identity.

(e) “Product Identity” means product and product line names, logos and identifying marks including trade dress; artifacts, creatures, characters, stories, storylines, plots, thematic elements, dialogue, incidents, language, artwork, symbols, designs, depictions, likenesses, formats, poses, concepts, themes and graphic, photographic and other visual or audio representations; names and descriptions of characters, spells, enchantments, personalities, teams, personas, likenesses and special abilities; places, locations, environments, creatures, equipment, magical or supernatural abilities or effects, logos, symbols, or graphic designs; and any other trademark or registered trademark clearly identified as Product identity by the owner of the Product Identity, and which specifically excludes the Open Game Content;

(f) “Trademark” means the logos, names, mark, sign, motto, designs that are used by a Contributor to identify itself or its products or the associated products contributed to the Open Game License by the Contributor

(g) “Use”, “Used” or “Using” means to use, Distribute, copy, edit, format, modify, translate and otherwise create Derivative Material of Open Game Content.

(h) “You” or “Your” means the licensee in terms of this agreement.

2. The License: This License applies to any Open Game Content that contains a notice indicating that the Open Game Content may only be Used under and in terms of this License. You must affix such a notice to any Open Game Content that you Use. No terms may be added to or subtracted from this License except as described by the License itself. No other terms or conditions may be applied to any Open Game Content distributed using this License.

3. Offer and Acceptance: By Using the Open Game Content You indicate Your acceptance of the terms of this License.

4. Grant and Consideration: In consideration for agreeing to use this License, the Contributors grant You a perpetual, worldwide, royaltyfree, non-exclusive license with the exact terms of this License to Use, the Open Game Content.

5. Representation of Authority to Contribute: If You are contributing original material as Open Game Content, You represent that Your Contributions are Your original creation and/or You have sufficient rights to grant the rights conveyed by this License.

6. Notice of License Copyright: You must update the COPYRIGHT NOTICE portion of this License to include the exact text of the COPYRIGHT NOTICE of any Open Game Content You are copying, modifying or distributing, and You must add the title, the copyright date, and the copyright holder’s name to the COPYRIGHT NOTICE of any original Open Game Content you Distribute.

7. Use of Product Identity: You agree not to Use any Product Identity, including as an indication as to compatibility, except as expressly licensed in another, independent Agreement with the owner of each element of that Product Identity. You agree not to indicate compatibility or co-adaptability with any Trademark or Registered Trademark in conjunction with a work containing Open Game Content except as expressly licensed in another, independent Agreement with the owner of such Trademark or Registered Trademark. The use of any Product Identity in Open Game Content does not constitute a challenge to the ownership of that Product Identity. The owner of any Product Identity used in Open Game Content shall retain all rights, title and interest in and to that Product Identity.

8. Identification: If you distribute Open Game Content You must clearly indicate which portions of the work that you are distributing are Open Game Content.

9. Updating the License: Wizards or its designated Agents may publish updated versions of this License. You may use any authorized version of this License to copy, modify and distribute any Open Game Content originally distributed under any version of this License.

10. Copy of this License: You MUST include a copy of this License with every copy of the Open Game Content You distribute.

11. Use of Contributor Credits: You may not market or advertise the Open Game Content using the name of any Contributor unless You have written permission from the Contributor to do so.

12. Inability to Comply: If it is impossible for You to comply with any of the terms of this License with respect to some or all of the Open Game Content due to statute, judicial order, or governmental regulation then You may not Use any Open Game Material so affected.

13. Termination: This License will terminate automatically if You fail to comply with all terms herein and fail to cure such breach within 30 days of becoming aware of the breach. All sublicenses shall survive the termination of this License.

14. Reformation: If any provision of this License is held to be unenforceable, such provision shall be reformed only to the extent necessary to make it enforceable.



Compatibility with Pathfinder Roleplaying Game Section:

Open Game License v 1.0a Copyright 2000, Wizards of the Coast, Inc.
System Reference Document. Copyright 2000, Wizards of the Coast, Inc.; Authors Jonathan Tweet, Monte Cook, Skip Williams, based on material by E. Gary Gygax and Dave Arneson.
Pathfinder RPG Core Rulebook. Copyright 2009, Paizo Publishing, LLC; Author: Jason Bulmahn, based on material by Jonathan Tweet, Monte Cook, and Skip Williams.
The Book of Experimental Might. Copyright 2008, Monte J. Cook. All rights reserved.
Tome of Horrors. Copyright 2002, Necromancer Games, Inc.; Authors: Scott Greene, with Clark Peterson, Erica Balsley, Kevin Baase, Casey Christofferson, Lance Hawvermale, Travis Hawvermale, Patrick Lawinger, and Bill Webb; Based on original content from TSR.

Pathfinder and associated marks and logos are trademarks of Paizo Publishing, LLC, and are used under license. See paizo.com/pathfinderRPG for more information on the Pathfinder Roleplaying Game.

Pathfinder is a registered trademark of Paizo Publishing, LLC, and the Pathfinder Roleplaying Game and the Pathfinder Roleplaying Game Compatibility Logo are trademarks of Paizo Publishing, LLC, and are used under the Pathfinder Roleplaying Game Compatibility License. See http://paizo.com/pathfinderRPG/compatibility for more information on the compatibility license.

Compatibility with the Pathfinder Roleplaying Game requires the Pathfinder Roleplaying Game from Paizo Publishing, LLC. See http://paizo.com/pathfinderRPG for more information on the Pathfinder Roleplaying Game. Paizo Publishing, LLC does not guarantee compatibility, and does not endorse this product.

True 20 Compatability:
True20 Adventure Roleplaying, Revised Edition OGL Section 15.

15. COPYRIGHT NOTICE
Open Game License v 1.0 Copyright 2000, Wizards of the Coast, Inc.

System Reference Document, Copyright 2000, Wizards of the Coast, Inc., Authors Jonathan Tweet, Monte Cook, Skip Williams, based on original material by E. Gary Gygax and Dave Arneson.

Modern System Reference Document Copyright 2002-2004, Wizards of the Coast, Inc.; Authors Bill Slavicsek, Jeff Grubb, Rich Redman, Charles Ryan, Eric Cagle, David Noonan, Stan!, Christopher Perkins, Rodney Thompson, and JD Wiker, based on material by Jonathan Tweet, Monte Cook, Skip Williams, Richard Baker, Peter Adkison, Bruce R. Cordell, John Tynes, Andy Collins, and JD Wiker.

Advanced Player's Manual, Copyright 2005, Green Ronin Publishing: Author Skip Williams.

Advanced Player's Guide, Copyright 2004, White Wolf Publishing, Inc.

Algernon Files, Copyright 2004, Blackwyrm Games; Authors Aaron Sullivan and Dave Mattingly.

Armies of the Abyss, Copyright 2002, Green Ronin Publishing; Authors Erik Mona and Chris Pramas.

The Avatar's Handbook, Copyright 2003, Green Ronin Publishing; Authors Jesse Decker and Chris Tomasson.

Bastards & Bloodlines, Copyright 2003, Green Ronin Publishing, Author Owen K.C. Stephens

Blue Rose, Copyright 2005, Green Ronin Publishing; Authors Jeremy Crawford, Dawn Elliot, Steve Kenson, and John Snead.

Blue Rose Companion, Copyright 2005, Green Ronin Publishing; Editor Jeremy Crawford.

The Book of Fiends, Copyright 2003, Green Ronin Publishing; Authors Aaron Loeb, Erik Mona, Chris Pramas, and Robert J. Schwalb.

Book of the Righteous, Copyright 2002, Aaron Loeb.

Challenging Challenge Ratings: Immortal's Handbook, Copyright 2003, Craig Cochrane.

Conan The Roleplaying Game, Copyright 2003 Conan Properties International LCC; Authorized Publisher Mongoose Publishing Ltd; Author Ian Sturrock.

CORE Explanatory Notice, Copyright 2003, Benjamin R. Durbin

Creatures of Freeport, Copyright 2004, Green Ronin Publishing, LLC; Authors Graeme Davis and Keith Baker.

Crime and Punishment, Copyright 2003, Author Keith Baker

Crooks!, Copyright 2003, Green Ronin Publishing; Authors Sean Glenn, Kyle Hunter, and Erik Mona.

Cry Havoc, Copyright 2003, Skip Williams. All rights reserved.

Challenging Challenge Ratings: Immortal's Handbook, Copyright 2003, Craig Cochrane.

Darwin's World 2nd Edition, Copyright 2003, RPG Objects; Authors Dominic Covey and Chris Davis.

Design Parameters: Immortal's Handbook, Copyright 2003, Craig Cochrane.

Fading Suns d20, Copyright 2001, Holistic Design, Inc.

Galactic Races, Copyright 2001, Fantasy Flight Games.

Gimmick's Guide to Gadgets, Copyright 2005, Green Ronin Publishing; Author Mike Mearls.

Grim Tales, Copyright 2004, Benjamin R. Durbin, published by Bad Axe Games, LCC.

Grim Tales, Cyberware game mechanics; Copyright 2003, Benjamin R. Durbin, published by Bad Axe Games, LCC.

Grim Tales, Firearms game mechanics; Copyright 2003, Benjamin R. Durbin, published by Bad Axe Games, LCC.

Grim Tales, Horror game mechanics; Copyright 2003, Benjamin R. Durbin, published by Bad Axe Games, LCC.

Grim Tales, Spellcasting game mechanics; Copyright 2003, Benjamin R. Durbin, published by Bad Axe Games, LCC.

Grim Tales, Vehicle game mechanics; Copyright 2003, Benjamin R. Durbin, published by Bad Axe Games, LCC.

Hot Pursuit, Copyright 2005, Corey Reid, published by Adamant Entertainment, Inc.

Immortals Handbook, Copyright 2003, Craig Cochrane.

Legions of Hell, Copyright 2001, Green Ronin Publishing; Author Chris Pramas.

A Magical Medieval Society: Western Europe, Copyright 2003, Expeditious Retreat Press; Authors Suzi Yee and Joseph Browning.

The Mastermind's Manual, Copyright 2006, Green Ronin Publishing; Author Steve Kenson.

Modern Player's Companion, Copyright 2003, The Game Mechanics, Inc; Author: Stan!

Monster's Handbook, Copyright 2002, Fantasy Flight Publishing, Inc.

Monte Cook Presents: Iron Heroes, Copyright 2005, Monte J. Cook. All rights reserved.

Monte Cook's: Arcana Unearthed, Copyright 2003, Monte J. Cook. All rights reserved.

Mutants & Masterminds, Copyright 2002, Green Ronin Publishing; Author Steve Kenson.

Mutants & Masterminds, Second Edition, Copyright 2005, Green Ronin Publishing; Author Steve Kenson.

Mutants & Masterminds Annual #1, Copyright 2004, Green Ronin Publishing, LLC; Editor Erik Mona.

Mythic Heroes, Copyright 2005, Benjamin R. Durbin, published by Bad Axe Games, LLC.

OGL Horror, Copyright 2003, Mongoose Publishing Limited.

Possessors: Children of the Outer Gods, Copyright 2003, Philip Reed and Christopher Shy, www.philipjreed.com and www.studioronin.com.

The Psychic's Handbook, Copyright 2004, Green Ronin Publishing; Author Steve Kenson.

The Quintessential Fighter, Copyright 2001 Mongoose Publishing

Relics and Rituals: Excalibur,Copyright 2004, White Wolf Publishing, Inc.

Rokugan, Copyright 2001 AEG

The Seven Saxons, by Benjamin R. Durbin and Ryan Smalley, Copyright 2005, Bad Axe Games, LLC.

Silver Age Sentinels d20, Copyright 2002, Guardians of Order, Inc.; Authors Stephen Kenson, Mark C. Mackinnon, Jeff Mackintosh, Jesse Scoble.

Skull & Bones, Copyright 2003, Green Ronin, Green Ronin Publisihing, Authors Ian Sturrock, T.S. Luikart, and Gareth-Michael Skarka.

Spycraft Copyright 2002, Alderac Entertainment Group.

Spycraft Espionage Handbook, Copyright 2002, Alderac Entertainment Group, Inc.; Authors Patrick Kapera and Kevin Wilson.

Spycraft Faceman/Snoop Class Guide, Copyright 2003, Alderac Entertainment Group, Inc.; Authors Alexander Flagg, Clayton A. Oliver.

Spycraft Fixer/Pointman Class Guide, Copyright 2003, Alderac Entertainment Group, Inc.; Authors Scott Gearin.

Spycraft Mastermind Guide, Copyright 2004, Alderac Entertainment Group, Inc.; Steve Crow, Alexander Flagg, B. D. Flory, Clayton A. Oliver.

Spycraft Modern Arms Guide, Copyright 2002, Alderac Entertainment Group, Inc.; Authors Chad Brunner, Tim D'Allard, Rob Drake, Michael Fish, Scott Gearin, Owen Hershey, Patrick Kapera, Michael Petrovich, Jim Wardrip, Stephen Wilcoxon.

Spycraft Soldier/Wheelman Class Guide, Copyright 2003, Alderac Entertainment Group, Inc.; Authors Chad Brunner, Shawn Carman, B. D. Flory, Scott Gearin, Patrick Kapera.

Spycraft U.S. Militaries Guide, Copyright 2004, Alderac Entertainment Group, Inc.; Authors Dave McAlister, Clayton A. Oliver, Patrick Kapera.

Spycraft, Copyright 2005, Alderac Entertainment Group.

Swords of Our Fathers, Copyright 2003, The Game Mechanics

Tales of the Caliphate Nights, Copyright 2006, Paradigm Concepts, Inc., Author Aaron Infante-Levy

Tome of Horrors, Copyright 2002, Necromancer Games., Inc.; Author Scott Greene, based on original material by Gary Gygax.

True20 Adventure Roleplaying, Copyright 2005, Green Ronin Publishing; Author Steve Kenson.

True20 Bestiary, Copyright 2006, Green Ronin Publishing; Author Matthew E. Kaiser.

True20 Companion, Copyright 2007, Green Ronin Publishing; Authors Erica Balsley, David Jarvis, Matthew E. Kaiser, Steve Kenson, and Sean Preston.

The Unholy Warrior's Handbook, Copyright 2003, Green Ronin Publishing; Author Robert J. Schwalb.

Ultramodern Firearms, Copyright 2002, Green Ronin Publishing; Author Charles McManus Ryan.

Unearthed Arcana, Copyright 2004, Wizards of the Coast, Inc.; Andy Collins, Jesse Decker, David Noonan, Rich Redman.

Wrath & Rage, Copyright 2002, Green Ronin Publishing, Author Jim Bishop

True20 Adventure Roleplaying, Revised Edition, Copyright 2008, Green Ronin Publishing; Author Steve Kenson.

OpenD6 requirements:
Open Game License v 1.0 Copyright 2000, Wizards of the Coast, Inc.
D6 Adventure (WEG 51011), Copyright 2004, Purgatory Publishing Inc.
D6 Space (WEG 51013), Copyright 2004, Purgatory Publishing Inc..
West End Games, WEG, and D6 System are trademarks and properties of Purgatory Publishing Inc.
PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION:
Product Identity: The D6 System; the D6 trademarks, the D6 and related logos and any derivative trademarks not specified as Open Game Content;
and all cover and interior art and trade dress are designated as Product Identity (PI) and are properties of Purgatory Publishing Inc. All rights reserved.
Open Game Content: All game mechanics and material not covered under Product Identity (PI) above; OpenD6 trademark and OpenD6 logo.

additional material:


Individual posts will specify which content in the post is IP or OGC. Unless specified, proper names, descriptive text, articles, posts not containing game mechanics, settings, product lines, articles series, etc. are IP.

Character-a-day, Copyright 2011, No Dan's Land Blog; Daniel Loyd
Brewmaster (Beta), Copyright July 14th 2011, No Dan's Land Blog. Daniel Loyd
Squint, copyright July 19th, 2011. No Dan's Land blog. Daniel Loyd
Crappy Pic of Guy at Computer, copyright July 27th, 2011. No Dan's Land. Daniel Loyd

Character-A-Day and Fun With OGC are IP.

Review: Super Genius Games- The Genius Guide to the Shadow Assassin

During my initial exploration of Pathfinder, a little over a year ago, I stumbled upon some bizarre looking downloads at Drivethrurpg. Instead of the large hundred page books I was expecting, there were a lot of bite sized products. There were still plenty of the more traditional releases, but the volume and variety of the smaller releases astounded me.

And here is where I show my age. I don't have a cell phone or ipod. I don't play any of Zynga's Facebook games. I occasionally download a bit of WiiWare, but otherwise I don't interact much with the whole "microtransaction" thing. I understand that it is a popular and growing business model today. I simply don't use it much. In my eagerness to sample some of the third party products for Pathfinder I bypassed my typical microsale reluctance. There are few better decisions that I have made in my gaming life.

The presentation is decent, but a little bit oddly shaped. It fits my screen differently than my other pdf gaming books. It is not a poor design; just a bit awkward to view on my netbook. Thankfully, the content is superb and more than makes up for any design quirks.

While similar to the Rogue, the Shadow Assassin presents the players a very different take on stealth combat. Sneak attack damage is replaced with multiple options for increased overall weapon effectiveness. Shurikens, Two-weapon Fighting, and a conjured blade are a few of the possible weapons styles. Each weapon style can be selected multiple times for increased effectiveness. Also, the Shadow Assassin can qualify for fighter feats with select weapons. While the weapon training provided to the Shadow Assassin may not directly counter the loss of sneak attack damage the class fights a bit more like a Ranger and should be able to hit more often than a rogue of equal level with the right build.

Aside from possibly lower damage output, the Shadow Assassin also lacks the Trapfinding ability. I have played in parties without Trapfinding, and it was never an insurmountable problem. Some areas of an adventure would require us to approach it differently, but we were always able to proceed. If your party would feel safer with Trapfinding, plan accordingly.

All of the Genius Guide supplements that I have bought have been excellent. When I start the Character a Day feature I want to showcase these classes along with the traditional ones. As soon as I double check the legal type stuff I plan on starting with some of the Genius Guide classes. I might do a theme week if I am so inspired.

Signed the Agreement

I have been debating starting a feature where I produce a character a day. I want to spend the year highlights the sheer volume of unique options available in the Pathfinder Roleplaying Game system. While I could technically use the OGL to release the same content, I would like to keep my options open. I might periodically release a collected volume of posts in pdf form. If I did, it would be nice to indicate compatibility. More people might take note if I display the Pathfinder logo. And I am not ruling out doing projects that I actually sell. I could be wrong, as I am mostly just a hobbyist, but I suspect that the logo would help sales.

I am still in the early stages of planning. Don't be surprised if my concept changes some. Once I iron out the details of my legal responsibility I plan to start posting.

The following links are mostly for my reference:

http://paizo.com/pathfinderRPG/compatibility

http://paizo.com/paizo/v5748n46bedyu#newPost

Financial aid and stuff

I am working on an updated Resume and financial aid. Thankfully I have tomorrow off so I should be able to get stuff done.

24 hr failure and random stuff

Bah. I didn't actually start the 24 hour rpg challenge. I was really busy, and didn't get around to it. On the bright side, I have the next few days off. I can try it again.

I am still kicking around rpg article ideas. Until they are ready here is some random.

Purpose for blog, and announcing 24hr rpg start

I finally have a goal for this blog. The word to best describe the initial founding was "whim", however I have sense stumbled on a goal. I would like post my thought on rpg theory. I recently went back to school in sociology and the theoretical frameworks within it seem like a good fit for gaming - at least to me.

Also, this is the start time for my first 24hr rpg. As it is the very first attempt of finishing a game design I expect it to mostly suck. Still, it should be a good experience.