Tuesday, 2 May 2017
My conversion from 3e/Pathfinder to 5e D&D system:
AC: Halve AC over 10.
Hit Points: Increase by 50%.
Attributes: Halve attributes over 20 (monster) or cap at 20 (NPC)
Damage: Increase by 50%.
Attack Bonus (weapon or spell) & Spell Save DC: Calculate based on CR-derived Proficiency + Attribute bonus
Good Saves: If it's a Good (2+1/2 level) save in 3e, the monster has Proficiency in it in 5e.
Will > WIS and possibly INT or CHA. Ref > DEX. Fort > CON and possibly STR.
This is easy enough to do that I can convert during play. I rarely worry about the exact number of spell slots an npc caster has, they will be dead in 2-3 rounds anyway...
Read more: http://www.enworld.org/forum/showthread.php?545337-Is-there-a-conversion-of-the-quot-Caverns-of-Thracia-quot-to-5e#ixzz4fukKzlQK
Tuesday, 28 February 2017
"Stuck in low level dungeon" - Classic D&D/ACKS
From http://www.therpgsite.com/showthread.php?36190-Stuck-in-low-level-dungeons-in-the-sandbox&p=948025#post948025 - 3rd level PC group reluctant to move on from 'starter dungeons'.
Level 4 is really where you hit 'mid level' in BX & its clones. 5th is where the MUs get Fireball and things change from gritty to wahoo. I tend to think that having an easier time at 3rd while being still afraid of the wilderness is a natural life stage for the BX sandbox. Maybe point out that Isle of Dread & Castle Amber both say "for 3rd to 6th level characters".
Normally my expectation would be that at 4th level the PCs would be willing to delve deeper and to make forays into the wilderness in search of more lucrative/higher level dungeons.
One point - if you don't like the advancement rate, consider giving more XP. Moldvay recommends that Basic PCs level up to 2nd in about 3 sessions of successful play, and BECM used a recommended rate of 5 sessions/level at higher level - assumption probably faster at low level. If ACKS does not naturally give out that sort of XP (I know BX/BECM often don't), then consider awarding more XP for eg exploration, for monsters, etc. That's what I do, while not increasing gp treasure drops, to get something like the recommended progression rates, and it works well. Whereas I have played with GMs who stuck rigidly to the RAW on XP awards and had PCs return from harrowing dungeon delves, defeating foes & gleaning bits of treasure, to receive double-digit XP - I rem we once defeated a bunch of skeletons & other stuff (losing the MU when he went into melee) and eventually returned to base to receive 22 XP each. That was pretty demotivating - it would take nearly a hundred such delves for a Fighter to hit 2nd level - and the campaign (on Dragonsfoot) soon died.
You don't have to go the 5e route of levelling them up every session, just look for a reasonable balance that sticks to the intent of the BX/ACKS system. Since your group has 10-12 I'd expect that if they were doing 1st level dungeon stuff they would indeed only earn around 200 XP/session, after all their risks are low. A 5-6 character group might get double that, 400 XP/session gets a Fighter to 2nd in 5 sessions, which seems reasonable. But if they are doing 3rd level appropriate stuff (eg Stonehell level 3) they should be getting around twice that I think, and on the 4th level, which a big group should be able to handle, maybe twice that again.
Level 4 is really where you hit 'mid level' in BX & its clones. 5th is where the MUs get Fireball and things change from gritty to wahoo. I tend to think that having an easier time at 3rd while being still afraid of the wilderness is a natural life stage for the BX sandbox. Maybe point out that Isle of Dread & Castle Amber both say "for 3rd to 6th level characters".
Normally my expectation would be that at 4th level the PCs would be willing to delve deeper and to make forays into the wilderness in search of more lucrative/higher level dungeons.
One point - if you don't like the advancement rate, consider giving more XP. Moldvay recommends that Basic PCs level up to 2nd in about 3 sessions of successful play, and BECM used a recommended rate of 5 sessions/level at higher level - assumption probably faster at low level. If ACKS does not naturally give out that sort of XP (I know BX/BECM often don't), then consider awarding more XP for eg exploration, for monsters, etc. That's what I do, while not increasing gp treasure drops, to get something like the recommended progression rates, and it works well. Whereas I have played with GMs who stuck rigidly to the RAW on XP awards and had PCs return from harrowing dungeon delves, defeating foes & gleaning bits of treasure, to receive double-digit XP - I rem we once defeated a bunch of skeletons & other stuff (losing the MU when he went into melee) and eventually returned to base to receive 22 XP each. That was pretty demotivating - it would take nearly a hundred such delves for a Fighter to hit 2nd level - and the campaign (on Dragonsfoot) soon died.
You don't have to go the 5e route of levelling them up every session, just look for a reasonable balance that sticks to the intent of the BX/ACKS system. Since your group has 10-12 I'd expect that if they were doing 1st level dungeon stuff they would indeed only earn around 200 XP/session, after all their risks are low. A 5-6 character group might get double that, 400 XP/session gets a Fighter to 2nd in 5 sessions, which seems reasonable. But if they are doing 3rd level appropriate stuff (eg Stonehell level 3) they should be getting around twice that I think, and on the 4th level, which a big group should be able to handle, maybe twice that again.
Tuesday, 13 December 2016
A reader asks about running 4e
"Hi Simon,
I been browsing your blogs and post on 4e. Congrats on completing the 4e campaign, must have been rewarding. I am planning to start one but having difficulties adjusting to the playstyle. I play mainly BD&D style dungeoncrawls/hexcrawls. Do you have any tips on making 4e adventures?"
My answer:
Hi - I had some blog posts:
http://simonyrpgs.blogspot.co.uk/2015/08/pemertonian-scene-framing.html
http://simonyrpgs.blogspot.co.uk/2015/09/4e-5e-exploration.html
http://simonyrpgs.blogspot.co.uk/2015/12/fun-in-4e-d.html
4e doesn't do crawl type exploration well. I find it works best to think in terms of strong characters and scenes, the 4e DMG advice is actually good for the 4e game if understood in context, so do go over that. Battles are best as big epic affairs, but you don't need to railroad PCs into encounters - I found a few Paizo battle maps and perhaps 2-3 different enemy encounter groups lets me largely improv a 4e session, with battles occurring naturally. A big dungeon is I think best skipped over the way Peter Jackson filmed trekking through Moria, rather than room by room/corridor by corridor movement, and go to a dramatic 'bang' such as the orcs being alerted when the PCs are deep in the dungeon. It works well as a Hollywood fantasy combat scene game. But there should be non-combat interpersonal scenes too. I don't recommend Skill Challenges as written but the idea of a dramatic non-combat scene with opposition & stakes works well.
I been browsing your blogs and post on 4e. Congrats on completing the 4e campaign, must have been rewarding. I am planning to start one but having difficulties adjusting to the playstyle. I play mainly BD&D style dungeoncrawls/hexcrawls. Do you have any tips on making 4e adventures?"
My answer:
Hi - I had some blog posts:
http://simonyrpgs.blogspot.co.uk/2015/08/pemertonian-scene-framing.html
http://simonyrpgs.blogspot.co.uk/2015/09/4e-5e-exploration.html
http://simonyrpgs.blogspot.co.uk/2015/12/fun-in-4e-d.html
4e doesn't do crawl type exploration well. I find it works best to think in terms of strong characters and scenes, the 4e DMG advice is actually good for the 4e game if understood in context, so do go over that. Battles are best as big epic affairs, but you don't need to railroad PCs into encounters - I found a few Paizo battle maps and perhaps 2-3 different enemy encounter groups lets me largely improv a 4e session, with battles occurring naturally. A big dungeon is I think best skipped over the way Peter Jackson filmed trekking through Moria, rather than room by room/corridor by corridor movement, and go to a dramatic 'bang' such as the orcs being alerted when the PCs are deep in the dungeon. It works well as a Hollywood fantasy combat scene game. But there should be non-combat interpersonal scenes too. I don't recommend Skill Challenges as written but the idea of a dramatic non-combat scene with opposition & stakes works well.
Tuesday, 4 October 2016
5e NPC Stats Compilation
Just did this compilation for my own use, thought others might find it useful to complement the MM NPCs. They're arranged by ascending hit dice.
5e NPCs
HD 3
AMAZON GUARD
Medium humanoid (human)
Armor Class: 17 (+3 DEX +2 shield +1 torc & ring, +1 psychic), 15 no shield
Hit Points: 17 (3d8+3)
Proficiency +2
Speed: 30 ft.
Strength 11 (+0), Dexterity 16 (+3), Constitution 12 (+1), Intelligence 10 (+0), Wisdom 12 (+1), Charisma 14 (+2)
Skills: Athletics +2, Intimidation +4, Perception +3
Passive perception: 13
Challenge: 1 (200 XP)
Martial Advantage: Once per turn the guard can deal an extra 7 (2d6) damage to a creature she hits with a melee attack if that creature is within 5 feet of an amazon guard's ally that isn’t incapacitated.
Actions:
Longsword: Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d8+3) piercing damage, 14 (1d8+2d6+3) with martial advantage.
Longbow: Ranged Weapon Attack +5 to hit, one target. Hit 6 (1d8+3) piercing damage.
Amazon Axe (finesse greataxe): +5 to hit, reach 5 ft, one target. Hit: 9 (1d12+3) slashing damage, 16 (1d12+2d6+3) with martial advantage. SA: Lunging strike - the amazon can extend Reach to 10' when attacking with the Amazon Axe. Doing so grants Combat Advantage until the start of her next turn.
_________________
Hoplite
Armor Class 17 (breastplate, shield)
Hit Points 17 (3d8 + 3)
Speed 30 ft.
Proficiency +2
STR 14 (+2) DEX 12 (+1) CON 13 (+1) INT 9 (-1) WIS 10 (+0) CHA 11 (+0)
Skills Perception +2
Senses passive Perception 12
Languages any one language (usually Common)
Challenge 3/4 (150 XP)
Martial Advantage: Once per turn, the Warrior can deal an extra 7 (2d6) damage to a creature it hits with a weapon attack if that creature is within 5 feet of an ally that isn’t incapacitated.
Actions
Ghinoran Spear (1-h reach 10' only) or Sword (reach 5'). Melee or Ranged Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 10 ft or 5 ft., one target. Hit: 6 (1d8 + 2) piercing damage.
_________________
Marine
Armor Class 14 (chain shirt*, DEX). 16 with shield.
Hit Points 17 (3d8 + 3)
Speed 30 ft.
Proficiency +2
STR 14 (+2) DEX 12 (+1) CON 13 (+1) INT 10 (+0) WIS 11 (+0) CHA 9 (-1)
Skills Perception +2
Senses passive Perception 12
Languages Ghinoran Common
Challenge 1/2 (100 XP)
Martial Advantage: Once per turn, the Marine can deal an extra 7 (2d6) damage to a creature it hits with a weapon attack if that creature is within 5 feet of an ally that isn’t incapacitated.
Typical Weapons
Longsword ATT +4 dam 1d8+2
Sea Axe ATT +4 dam 1d12+2
Heavy Crossbow ATT +3 dam 2d10+1/1d10+1 range 100'/400', reload 3r
*Can be removed in 2 actions (belt off, shirt over head) giving some chance of surviving a fall into the ocean.
_________________
Priest
Armor Class 10
Hit Points 17 (3d8+3)
Healing Dice 1 (d8+1)
Speed 30 ft.
Proficiency +2
STR 10 (+0) DEX 11 (+0) CON 12 (+1) INT 13 (+1) WIS 14 (+2) CHA 8 (-1)
Medicine +4 Religion +3
Senses passive Perception 12
2nd level Clerical spellcaster. Spell save DC 12, +4 to hit.
Cantrips: 3
light (20' bright+20' dim, 1 hr)
thaumaturgy (30', 1 minute, 1 sign of Mitra's power per casting, max 3, action to dismiss)
sacred flame (flame descends on target in 60' range, target make DC 12 Dex save or 1d8 radiant dmg)
1st level (3 slots):
bless (up to 3 allies get +1d4 att/save for 1 minute)
cure wounds (touch heals 1d8+2 hp)
sanctuary (bonus action, wards 1 creature for 1 minute, attacker must make DC 12 WIS save to target, choose new target, or lose the attack)
Staff, ATT +2, 1d6 dmg.
Turn Undead: 1/short rest
Action: present holy symbol.
If succeed, Undead within 30' are turned, fleeing for 1 minute (PHB 59).
-----------------------------------------
Priestess
Medium humanoid
Armor Class 9
Hit Points 18 (8,2,8 hd3d8) Healing Dice: 1 (d8)
Speed 30 ft.
STR 7 (-2) DEX 8 (-1) CON 10 (0) INT 11 (0) WIS 14 (+2) CHA 15 (+2)
Proficiency +2
Good saves WIS, CON
Passive Perception 14
Turn Undead: 1/short rest
If succeed, Undead within 30' are turned, fleeing for 1 minute (PHB 59).
Spellcasting. She is a 3rd-level spellcaster. Her spellcasting ability is Wisdom (spell save DC 12, +4 to hit with spell attacks).
She typically has the following Cleric spells prepared:
Cantrips (at will):
light (20' bright+20' dim, 1 hr)
sacred flame (flame descends on target in 60' range, target make DC 12 Dex save or 1d8 radiant dmg)
thaumaturgy (30', 1 minute, 1 sign of Mitra's power per casting, max 3, action to dismiss)
Spells Prepared: 4
1st level (4 slots):
cure wounds (touch heals 1d8+2 hp, 2d8+2 with level 2 slot)
sanctuary (bonus action, wards 1 creature for 1 minute, attacker must make DC 12 WIS save to target, choose new target, or lose the attack)
2nd level (2 slots):
lesser restoration (creature touched - cures disease, blindness, deafness, paralysation, poison)
hold person (r. 60', target DC 12 WIS save or paralysed, target can save at end of each turn, requires concentration to maintain)
Consecration: 2nd level Ritual, prevents animation of corpses, allows a font to be used to make holy water, can make a single couple (male & female, same species, no closer than second cousins, adolescent or older, etc...) legally married in the sight of Mitra, etc. Requires 5gp of burnt incense or a vial of holy water per 30'x30' area, and takes 10 minutes per area consecrated.
Actions
Staff Melee Weapon Attack: +0 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 1d6-2 bludgeoning damage.
Unarmed: 0 damage
____________________________
Shepherdess, Experienced
Medium humanoid
Armor Class 12
Hit Points 13 (3d8) healing die: 1 (d8)
Speed 30 ft.
STR 8 (-1) DEX 14 (+2) CON 10 (+0) INT 10 (+0) WIS 11 (+0) CHA 13 (+1)
Proficiency +2
Good saves DEX, CON
Senses passive Perception 12
Actions
Sling. Missile Weapon Attack 30'/120': +4 to hit, one target.
Hit: 1d4+2 bludgeoning damage.
Unarmed: 0 damage
-----------------------------------
Sheep Dog:
Medium beast, unaligned
Armor Class 13 (natural armor)
Hit Points 16 (3d8 + 3) healing die: 1 (d8+1)
Speed 40 ft.
STR 12 (+1) DEX 15 (+2) CON 12 (+1) INT 3 (−4) WIS 12 (+1) CHA 6 (−2)
Skills Perception +3*, Stealth +4
Senses passive Perception 13
Languages — *woof!*
*Keen Hearing and Smell. Advantage on Wisdom
(Perception) checks that rely on hearing or smell.
Pack Tactics. Advantage on attack rolls against a
creature if at least one of the wolf’s allies is within 5 feet of the creature and the ally isn’t incapacitated.
Actions
Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target.
Hit: 7 (2d4 + 2) piercing damage.
Critical hit: 4d4+2, and if the target is a small or medium creature it is
knocked prone.
Temple Guard Veteran
Medium humanoid
Armor Class: 18 (4 breastplate, 2 shield, 2 DEX); or 16 (4 breastplate, 2 DEX)
Hit Points: 17 (3d8+3)
Proficiency +2
Speed: 30 ft.
Strength 16 (+3), Dexterity 14 (+2), Constitution 12 (+1), Intelligence 8 (-1), Wisdom 12 (+1), Charisma 9 (-1)
Skills: Athletics +5, Intimidation +1, Perception +3
Passive perception: 13
Challenge Rating: 1/2 (100 XP)
Deadly Strike: Once per turn the temple guard can do 1 extra damage die on a melee weapon hit (included in stats).
Actions:
• Longsword: Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 12 (2d8+3) slashing or piercing damage.
• Shortbow: Ranged Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, one target. Hit: 6 (1d8+2) piercing damage.
HD 4
Elf Scout, female
Medium humanoid
Armor Class: 13 (+3 DEX)
Hit Points: 22 (4d8+4)
Proficiency +2
Speed: 40 ft unarmoured (30 ft. standard)
Strength 8 (-1), Dexterity 16 (+3), Constitution 12 (+1), Intelligence 13 (+1), Wisdom 14 (+2), Charisma 10 (+0)
Skills: Survival +6 (Expertise), Perception +4, Kno (Nature) +3
Passive perception: 14
Challenge Rating: 3/4 (150 XP)
Actions
She can make 2 longbow attacks or 1 dagger attack per attack action.
Longbow ATT +5 dam: 1d8+3 (2 attacks)
Dagger ATT +5 dam: 1d4+3 (1 attack)
-------------------------------------
HD 5
Chosen Axeman
Medium humanoid
Armor Class 12 (unarmoured defence)
Hit Points 32 (5d8 + 10)
Speed 30 ft.
STR 15 (+2) DEX 11 (+0) CON 14 (+2) INT 10 (+0) WIS 11 (+0) CHA 10 (+0)
Skills Intimidation +2
Senses passive Perception 10
Languages Altanian, Common
Challenge 1 (200 XP)
Pack Tactics. The Axeman has advantage on a melee attack roll against
a creature if at least one of the Axeman’s allies is within 5 feet of
the creature, and the ally isn’t incapacitated.
Actions
Multiattack. The Axeman makes two melee attacks.
Great Axe. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature.
Hit: 8 (1d12 + 2) slashing damage.
Javelin (2) Missile Weapon Attack +4 to hit,
Hit: 5 (1d6+2) piercing damage.
-----------------------------------------
Dwarven Elite Clan Guard
Medium humanoid
Armor Class: 18 (plate)
Hit Points: 32 (5d8+10)
Proficiency +2
Speed: 25 ft.
Strength 16 (+3), Dexterity 10 (+0), Constitution 14 (+2), Intelligence 10 (0), Wisdom 11 (+0), Charisma 10 (0)
Skills: Intimidation +2, Insight +2, Perception +2
Passive perception: 12
Challenge Rating: 2 (450 XP)
Actions
Attack - the Clan Guard makes two attacks per attack action.
Reactions
The Clan Guard can make an Opportunity Attack with halberd against any foe entering its reach.
Weapon:
Halberd (reach 10') Attack +5 damage: 1d10+3
_________________________________________
Ranger, female
Medium humanoid (human)
Armor Class: 14 (12 studded leather, +2 DEX)
Hit Points: 28 (5d8+5)
Proficiency +2
Speed: 30 ft.
Strength 9 (-1), Dexterity 14 (+2), Constitution 12 (+1), Intelligence 12 (+1), Wisdom 14 (+2), Charisma 15 (+2)
Skills: Survival +4, Perception +4, Nature +2, Stealth +4
Passive perception: 14
Challenge Rating: 1 (200 XP)
Actions
She can make 2 longbow attacks or 2 shortsword attacks per attack action. She can use a Bonus action to make a third shortsword attack.
Longbow ATT +4 dam: 1d8+2 (2 attacks)
Shortsword ATT +4 dam: 1d6+2 (3 attacks)
Favoured Enemy: Gnolls, Humans. Advantage on Survival rolls to track and Int rolls to recall knowledge. Knows Gnoll-tongue as well as Common.
Natural Explorer - Plains.
Fighting Style - Two Weapon.
Equipment includes Explorer's pack
-------------------------------------------------
HD 7
Sorceress, Experienced
Armor Class 14 with mage armour, 11 without
Hit Points 31 (7d8) Healing Dice: 3 (d8)
Speed 30 ft.
STR 8 (-1) DEX 12 (+1) CON 10 (+0) INT 15 (+2) WIS 9 (-1) CHA 17 (+3)
Good saves INT, WIS
Proficiency +2
Perception +1 Arcana +4
Passive Perception 11
Spellcasting. She is a 5th level spellcaster (Sorcerer spells). Her spellcasting ability is Charisma (spell save DC 13, +5 to hit with spell attacks).
Cantrips (4)
Dancing Lights (conc, phb 230)
Fire Bolt (120', att +5, 1d10 fire damage)
Light (20' r, +20' r dim)
Mage Hand (r 30', action to control, 1 minute, 10 lb weight)
Spells Known (4) Spell slots: 4 1st 2, 2nd
1st level
1. Magic Missile (120', 3 force darts, 1d4+1 damage each), 4 at 2nd
2. Mage Armour (touch, unarmoured target gets AC 13+DEX for 8 hrs)
3. Burning Hands (15' cone, targets make DC 13 Dex save or take 3d6 fire damage, half damage if save, ignites flammable objects), 4d6 at 2nd
2nd level
1. Detect Thoughts (phb 231 - surface thoughts/wis save dc 13 if deep probe, target knows)
3rd Level
Fly
SA: liable to wild magic surge, phb pg 104
HD 9
-----------------------------------
Elf Mage
Medium humanoid (Elf)
Armor Class 13 (16 with mage armor)
Hit Points 40 (9d8) Proficiency +3
Speed 30 ft.
STR 8 (−1) DEX 16 (+3) CON 10 (0) INT 18 (+4) WIS 12 (+1) CHA 13 (+1)
Saving Throws Int +7, Wis +4
Skills Arcana +7, Persuasion +4, Perception +4
Senses passive Perception 14. Darkvision 60'.
Languages Common Elf Orc Goblin
Challenge 6 (2,300 XP)
Fey Ancestry. Advantage vs Charm & cannot be Sleeped.
Spellcasting. The elf mage is a 9th-level spellcaster. Its
spellcasting ability is Intelligence (spell save DC 15, +7 to
hit with spell attacks). The mage typically has the following wizard
spells prepared:
Cantrips (at will): fire bolt, light, mage hand, prestidigitation
1st level (4 slots): detect magic, mage armor, magic
missile, shield
2nd level (3 slots): misty step, suggestion
3rd level (3 slots): counterspell, fireball, fly
4th level (3 slots): greater invisibility, ice storm
5th level (1 slot): wall of stone OR dominate person
Actions
Dagger. Melee or Ranged Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft. or
range 20/60 ft., one target. Hit: 4 (1d4 + 3) piercing damage.
___________________________
HD 11
-----------------------------------
Dwarf Hero
AC 18 (half plate 15, +2 shield, +1 dex), 16 no shield.
HP 72 (11d8+22) Healing Dice 5 (d8+2)
Speed 25'
STR 16 (+3) DEX 12 (+1) CON 14 (+2) INT 12 (+1) WIS 8 (-1) CHA 13 (+1)
Proficiency +3
Good Saves STR, CON.
Perception +2 (11)
CR 4
ACTIONS
Multiattack: He makes two warhammer attacks.
+1 Warhammer: ATT +7, dam 1d8+6 blunt damage. x2
Dwarven Heavy Crossbow: ATT +4, range 100'/400', dam 2d10+1/1d10+1, 2 rounds to reload.
Bolts: 12
--------------------------------------------
Elf Knight
Medium humanoid (Elf), any alignment
Armor Class 18 (+2 studded leather, +4 DEX, +2 shield)
Hit Points 72 (11d8 + 22) Proficiency +3
Speed 30 ft.
STR 14 (+2) DEX 18 (+4) CON 14 (+2) INT 11 (+0) WIS 10 (+0) CHA 13 (+1)
Saving Throws Con +5, Wis +3
Athletics +5 Acrobatics +7 History +3 Perception +3
Senses passive Perception 13. Darkvision 60'.
Languages Common, Elf
Challenge 6 (2300 XP)
Fey Ancestry. Advantage vs Charm & cannot be Sleeped.
Indomitable. The knight cannot be Frightened.
Duelist. +2 melee damage with single 1-handed weapon.
Duelist Strike: +13 (3d8) damage 1/round with a melee attack vs a single target with no adjacent allies.
Action Surge. The knight may take an extra Action, once per Short Rest.
Actions
Multiattack. The knight makes two melee or ranged attacks.
+2 Rapier. Melee Weapon Attack: +9 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
target. Hit: 12 (1d8 + 8) piercing damage, 25 (4d8+8) with Duelist Strike.
------------------------------------
Longbow. Ranged Weapon Attack +7 to hit, one target. Hit 8 (1d8+4) piercing damage.
High Priest hd 11
Medium humanoid (any race), any alignment
Armor Class 20 (+5 from +1 breastplate, +2 DEX, +1 ring of protection, +2 from shield)
Hit Points 75 (11d8 + 22)
Proficiency +4
Speed 30 ft.
STR 10 (+0) DEX 14 (+2) CON 14 (+2) INT 12 (+1) WIS 18 (+4) CHA 16 (+3)
Saves WIS +8 CHA +7
Skills Medicine +7, Persuasion +7, Religion +8
Senses passive Perception 14
Languages any two languages
Divine Eminence. As a bonus action, the priest can expend a spell slot to cause its melee weapon attacks to magically deal an extra 10 (3d6) radiant damage to a target on a hit. This benefit lasts until the end of the turn. If the priest expends a spell slot of 2nd level or higher, the extra damage increases by 1d6 for each level above 1st.
Divine Intervention 11%, 1/week.
Spellcasting. The high priest is an 11th-level spellcaster. Its spellcasting ability is Wisdom (spell save DC 16, +8 to hit with spell attacks). The high priest has the following cleric spells prepared:
Cantrips (at will): guidance, light, sacred flame, thaumaturgy, spare the dying
Spells (15)
1st level (4 slots): cure wounds, healing word, bless,
2nd level (3 slots): lesser restoration, spiritual weapon
3rd level (3 slots): dispel magic, mass healing word, spirit guardians, revivify
4th level (3 slots): Death Ward, Divination, Freedom of Movement
5th level (2 slots): Flame Strike, Commune
6th level (1 slot): Blade Barrier
Actions
+1 Shortsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target.
Hit: 1d6+3 piercing damage.
------------------------------------
HD 12
Avenger, Experienced
AC 15 (chain shirt 13, +2 dex)
HP 78 (12d8+24) Healing Dice 6 (d8+2)
Speed 30'
STR 16 (+3) DEX 15 (+2) CON 14 (+2) INT 11 (0) WIS 14 (+2) CHA 10 (+0)
Proficiency +3
Good Saves WIS, CON.
Perception +5 (15)
Stealth +8 (spec)
Survival +5
CR 4
SA: Deadly Killer - he does +1d6 damage with his chosen weapons.
SA: Multiattack - He makes 2 attacks per attack action.
ATTACKS
+1 Greatsword: ATT +7 damage 14 (3d6+4), two attacks.
6 Throwing Blades (finesse weapon): ATT +6 damage 10 (2d6+3), two attacks. Range 20'/60'.
Equipment: wilderness survival gear, 2 potions of healing (2d4+2), 6d6gp.
----------------------------------
HD 14
LOREMASTER BARD
Medium humanoid (human)
Armor Class 13 (15 with mage armor) (10/13, +2 DEX +1 ring of protection)
Hit Points 69 (14d8+14)
Proficiency +4
Speed 30 ft.
STR 8 (−1) DEX 14 (+2) CON 12 (+1) INT 14 (+2) WIS 16 (+3) CHA 20 (+5)
Saving Throws Wisdom +7 Charisma +9, +1 to all with ring
Skills Arcana +10 (Expertise), Persuasion +13 (Expertise), Perception +7.
Senses passive Perception 17
Challenge 8
Spellcasting. She is a 14th level Bard-list spellcaster, spellcasting ability is Charisma (spell save DC 17, +9 to hit with spell attacks).
Cantrips (4): friends, light, mage hand, mending
Spells
She knows the following 18 spells:
1st level (4 slots): Burning Hands, Detect Magic, Mage Armor, Healing Word
2nd level (3 slots): Detect Thoughts, Suggestion
3rd level (3 slots): Counterspell, Dispel Magic, Fireball, Revivify, Speak with Dead
4th level (3 slots): Compulsion
5th level (2 slots): Scrying, Raise Dead
6th level (1 slot) Mass Suggestion, Globe of Invulnerability
7th level (1 slot) Fire Storm (as Sorcerer), Teleport
SA: Song of Rest +5 hp recovery on short rest to those who can hear it.
MI: d4+4 potions of healing, Ring of Protection +1 AC & Saves, 1d4+1 doses of Keoghtom's Ointment
-------------------------------------
Amazon Weaponmaster
Medium humanoid (human)
Armor Class 18 (11 torc & ring, +4 DEX, +2 shield, , +1 psychic), 16 no shield
Hit Points 92 (14d8 + 28)
Proficiency +3
Speed 30 ft.
STR 12 (+1) DEX 18 (+4) CON 14 (+2) INT 10 (+0) WIS 10 (+0) CHA 14 (+2)
Saving Throws Dex +7, Wis +3
Athletics +4 Acrobatics +7 History +3 Perception +3
Senses passive Perception 13.
Challenge 7
Duelist. +2 melee damage with single 1-handed weapon.
Martial Advantage: 1/turn she can do +14 (+4d6) damage to a creature she hits with a melee attack, if that creature is within 5 feet of an ally of hers that isn’t incapacitated.
Actions
Multiattack. She makes two melee or ranged attacks.
+1 Rapier. Melee Weapon Attack: +8 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
target. Hit: 11 (1d8 + 7) piercing damage, 25 (+4d6) 1/turn with Martial Advantage.
Longbow. Ranged Weapon Attack +7 to hit, one target. Hit 8 (1d8+4) piercing damage.
__________________________________________________
HD 16
Pirate Queen
AC 15, AC 18 vs one melee attack each round that would otherwise hit (Reaction: Parry)
Hit Points 120 (16d8+48)
Proficiency +3
Speed 40' when unarmoured, otherwise 30'
STR 12 (+1)
DEX 18 (+4)
CON 16 (+3)
INT 12 (+1)
WIS 12 (+1)
CHA 16 (+3)
Saving Throws DEX +7 CON +6 WIS +4
Skills Athletics +4 Acrobatics +7 Intimidation +6
Passive Perception 14
Traits
Pirate's Defence: + 1 AC when unarmoured
Brave: advantage on saving throws vs being Frightened
Slayer: + one damage die with any weapon (included)
Parry: Reaction, +3 AC vs one melee attack each round that would otherwise hit
Actions
Multiattack: She makes 3 melee attacks.
Cutlass: ATT +7 dam 13 (2d8+4), 1-handed.
Boat Spear: ATT +7 dam 13 (2d8+4), 2-handed, reach 10'. ATT+9 vs sea monsters!
Dirty Kick: ATT +7 dam dam 9 (2d4+4). A Medium or smaller humanoid creature must make a DC 15 STR saving throw or be either knocked prone or pushed 5' (Sarene's choice).
_______________________________________________
HD 18
Barbarian Hero
Medium humanoid
Armor Class 14 (dex, unarmoured toughness)
Hit Points 134 (18d8 + 54)
hd 9 (d12+3)
Speed 40 ft.
STR 20 (+5) DEX 12 (+1) CON 17 (+3) INT 9 (−1) WIS 9 (-1) CHA 12 (+1)
Senses passive Perception 12
Languages Common
Challenge 7
Proficiency +3
Actions
Multiattack. He makes two melee attacks.
Berserk. On the second & subsequent rounds of combat, he can make a third attack as a bonus action. Suffers 1 level of exhaustion, recover through short rest 3/day.
+1 Greataxe. Melee Weapon Attack: +9 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
target. Hit: (15) 1d12 + 9 slashing damage (+5 STR +3 Rage +1 magic), crit (28) 3d12+9.
Javelin (2), Missile Weapon Attack +8 to hit, Hit: 1d6+8 piercing damage, crit 3d6+8.
------------------------------------------------------------
HD 20
Barbarian Great Warlord
Great Warlord
Medium humanoid
Armor Class 17 (+2 dex, +5 unarmoured toughness)
Hit Points 190 (20d8 +100)
Proficiency +4
Speed 40 ft.
STR 20 (+5) DEX 14 (+2) CON 20 (+5) INT 12 (+1) WIS 10 (+0) CHA 14 (+2)
Saves STR +9 CON +9 WIS +5
Senses passive Perception 15
Languages Altanian, Common
Challenge 10
SA
Danger Sense - Advantage on DEX saves
Feral Instinct - Advantage on Initiative rolls
Actions
Multiattack. The Great Warlord makes two melee attacks & 1 bonus melee attack.
Javelin (2) Missile Weapon Attack +9 to hit,
Hit: 1d6+5 piercing damage.
Yusan - Sword of Bondorr
+2 Greatsword, Dragonslayer. Melee Weapon Attack: +11 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 2d6+10 slashing damage (+5 STR +3 Rage +2 magic) (3 attacks) (crit 6d6+10)
Sword does +3d6 damage vs dragons and dragon-blooded (Orichalans etc).
The sword when drawn gives its wielder immunity to enchantment/charm effects.
Minars Rapak - Axe of Minars
+1 Altanian War Axe, 10' reach & Polearm Master.
Melee Weapon Attack: +10 to hit, reach 10 ft, one target. Hit: 2d12+9 slashing damage (2 attacks), 2d4+9 blunt damage (bonus attack).
Opportunity Attack on enemy entering Reach.
----------------------------
Knight Commander
Medium humanoid (human)
Armor Class 22 (+1 full plate & +1 shield), AC 19 no shield.
Hit Points 150 (hd 20d8+60)
Speed 30 ft.
PB +4
STR 20 (+5) DEX 16 (+3) CON 16 (+3) INT 12 (+1) WIS 10 (+0) CHA 15 (+2)
Saving Throws Con +7, Wis +4
Skills Athletics +9 History + 5 Bluff +6 Persuasion +6 Intimidate +6
Senses passive Perception 14
Languages Common
Challenge 11
Traits
Double damage dice with any weapon
Crit on 19-20
Brutal Critical. +2 dice
Brave. The knight has advantage on saving throws against being frightened.
Duelist: +2 damage with 1-handed melee weapon.
Actions
Multiattack. The knight makes three attacks per attack action.
+1 Longsword, three attacks, Attack +12 to hit (PB 4, +5 STR, +1 magic, +2 leadership).
Hit: (17) 2d8+8 (+5 STR +2 duellist +1 magic), crit 19-20 for (35) 6d8+8.
+1 Longbow, three attacks, Attack +10 to hit (PB 4, +3 DEX, +1 magic, +2 leadership)
Hit: (13) 2d8+4 (+3 DEX +1 magic), crit 19-20 for (31) 6d8+4
Leadership (Recharges after a Short or Long Rest). For 1 minute, the knight can utter a special command or warning whenever the knight himself or a nonhostile creature that it can see within 30 feet of it makes an attack roll or a saving throw. The creature can add +2 to its roll provided it can hear and understand the knight. A creature can benefit from only one Leadership bonus at a time. This effect ends if the knight is incapacitated.
5e NPCs
HD 3
AMAZON GUARD
Medium humanoid (human)
Armor Class: 17 (+3 DEX +2 shield +1 torc & ring, +1 psychic), 15 no shield
Hit Points: 17 (3d8+3)
Proficiency +2
Speed: 30 ft.
Strength 11 (+0), Dexterity 16 (+3), Constitution 12 (+1), Intelligence 10 (+0), Wisdom 12 (+1), Charisma 14 (+2)
Skills: Athletics +2, Intimidation +4, Perception +3
Passive perception: 13
Challenge: 1 (200 XP)
Martial Advantage: Once per turn the guard can deal an extra 7 (2d6) damage to a creature she hits with a melee attack if that creature is within 5 feet of an amazon guard's ally that isn’t incapacitated.
Actions:
Longsword: Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d8+3) piercing damage, 14 (1d8+2d6+3) with martial advantage.
Longbow: Ranged Weapon Attack +5 to hit, one target. Hit 6 (1d8+3) piercing damage.
Amazon Axe (finesse greataxe): +5 to hit, reach 5 ft, one target. Hit: 9 (1d12+3) slashing damage, 16 (1d12+2d6+3) with martial advantage. SA: Lunging strike - the amazon can extend Reach to 10' when attacking with the Amazon Axe. Doing so grants Combat Advantage until the start of her next turn.
_________________
Hoplite
Armor Class 17 (breastplate, shield)
Hit Points 17 (3d8 + 3)
Speed 30 ft.
Proficiency +2
STR 14 (+2) DEX 12 (+1) CON 13 (+1) INT 9 (-1) WIS 10 (+0) CHA 11 (+0)
Skills Perception +2
Senses passive Perception 12
Languages any one language (usually Common)
Challenge 3/4 (150 XP)
Martial Advantage: Once per turn, the Warrior can deal an extra 7 (2d6) damage to a creature it hits with a weapon attack if that creature is within 5 feet of an ally that isn’t incapacitated.
Actions
Ghinoran Spear (1-h reach 10' only) or Sword (reach 5'). Melee or Ranged Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 10 ft or 5 ft., one target. Hit: 6 (1d8 + 2) piercing damage.
_________________
Marine
Armor Class 14 (chain shirt*, DEX). 16 with shield.
Hit Points 17 (3d8 + 3)
Speed 30 ft.
Proficiency +2
STR 14 (+2) DEX 12 (+1) CON 13 (+1) INT 10 (+0) WIS 11 (+0) CHA 9 (-1)
Skills Perception +2
Senses passive Perception 12
Languages Ghinoran Common
Challenge 1/2 (100 XP)
Martial Advantage: Once per turn, the Marine can deal an extra 7 (2d6) damage to a creature it hits with a weapon attack if that creature is within 5 feet of an ally that isn’t incapacitated.
Typical Weapons
Longsword ATT +4 dam 1d8+2
Sea Axe ATT +4 dam 1d12+2
Heavy Crossbow ATT +3 dam 2d10+1/1d10+1 range 100'/400', reload 3r
*Can be removed in 2 actions (belt off, shirt over head) giving some chance of surviving a fall into the ocean.
_________________
Priest
Armor Class 10
Hit Points 17 (3d8+3)
Healing Dice 1 (d8+1)
Speed 30 ft.
Proficiency +2
STR 10 (+0) DEX 11 (+0) CON 12 (+1) INT 13 (+1) WIS 14 (+2) CHA 8 (-1)
Medicine +4 Religion +3
Senses passive Perception 12
2nd level Clerical spellcaster. Spell save DC 12, +4 to hit.
Cantrips: 3
light (20' bright+20' dim, 1 hr)
thaumaturgy (30', 1 minute, 1 sign of Mitra's power per casting, max 3, action to dismiss)
sacred flame (flame descends on target in 60' range, target make DC 12 Dex save or 1d8 radiant dmg)
1st level (3 slots):
bless (up to 3 allies get +1d4 att/save for 1 minute)
cure wounds (touch heals 1d8+2 hp)
sanctuary (bonus action, wards 1 creature for 1 minute, attacker must make DC 12 WIS save to target, choose new target, or lose the attack)
Staff, ATT +2, 1d6 dmg.
Turn Undead: 1/short rest
Action: present holy symbol.
If succeed, Undead within 30' are turned, fleeing for 1 minute (PHB 59).
-----------------------------------------
Priestess
Medium humanoid
Armor Class 9
Hit Points 18 (8,2,8 hd3d8) Healing Dice: 1 (d8)
Speed 30 ft.
STR 7 (-2) DEX 8 (-1) CON 10 (0) INT 11 (0) WIS 14 (+2) CHA 15 (+2)
Proficiency +2
Good saves WIS, CON
Passive Perception 14
Turn Undead: 1/short rest
If succeed, Undead within 30' are turned, fleeing for 1 minute (PHB 59).
Spellcasting. She is a 3rd-level spellcaster. Her spellcasting ability is Wisdom (spell save DC 12, +4 to hit with spell attacks).
She typically has the following Cleric spells prepared:
Cantrips (at will):
light (20' bright+20' dim, 1 hr)
sacred flame (flame descends on target in 60' range, target make DC 12 Dex save or 1d8 radiant dmg)
thaumaturgy (30', 1 minute, 1 sign of Mitra's power per casting, max 3, action to dismiss)
Spells Prepared: 4
1st level (4 slots):
cure wounds (touch heals 1d8+2 hp, 2d8+2 with level 2 slot)
sanctuary (bonus action, wards 1 creature for 1 minute, attacker must make DC 12 WIS save to target, choose new target, or lose the attack)
2nd level (2 slots):
lesser restoration (creature touched - cures disease, blindness, deafness, paralysation, poison)
hold person (r. 60', target DC 12 WIS save or paralysed, target can save at end of each turn, requires concentration to maintain)
Consecration: 2nd level Ritual, prevents animation of corpses, allows a font to be used to make holy water, can make a single couple (male & female, same species, no closer than second cousins, adolescent or older, etc...) legally married in the sight of Mitra, etc. Requires 5gp of burnt incense or a vial of holy water per 30'x30' area, and takes 10 minutes per area consecrated.
Actions
Staff Melee Weapon Attack: +0 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 1d6-2 bludgeoning damage.
Unarmed: 0 damage
____________________________
Shepherdess, Experienced
Medium humanoid
Armor Class 12
Hit Points 13 (3d8) healing die: 1 (d8)
Speed 30 ft.
STR 8 (-1) DEX 14 (+2) CON 10 (+0) INT 10 (+0) WIS 11 (+0) CHA 13 (+1)
Proficiency +2
Good saves DEX, CON
Senses passive Perception 12
Actions
Sling. Missile Weapon Attack 30'/120': +4 to hit, one target.
Hit: 1d4+2 bludgeoning damage.
Unarmed: 0 damage
-----------------------------------
Sheep Dog:
Medium beast, unaligned
Armor Class 13 (natural armor)
Hit Points 16 (3d8 + 3) healing die: 1 (d8+1)
Speed 40 ft.
STR 12 (+1) DEX 15 (+2) CON 12 (+1) INT 3 (−4) WIS 12 (+1) CHA 6 (−2)
Skills Perception +3*, Stealth +4
Senses passive Perception 13
Languages — *woof!*
*Keen Hearing and Smell. Advantage on Wisdom
(Perception) checks that rely on hearing or smell.
Pack Tactics. Advantage on attack rolls against a
creature if at least one of the wolf’s allies is within 5 feet of the creature and the ally isn’t incapacitated.
Actions
Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target.
Hit: 7 (2d4 + 2) piercing damage.
Critical hit: 4d4+2, and if the target is a small or medium creature it is
knocked prone.
Temple Guard Veteran
Medium humanoid
Armor Class: 18 (4 breastplate, 2 shield, 2 DEX); or 16 (4 breastplate, 2 DEX)
Hit Points: 17 (3d8+3)
Proficiency +2
Speed: 30 ft.
Strength 16 (+3), Dexterity 14 (+2), Constitution 12 (+1), Intelligence 8 (-1), Wisdom 12 (+1), Charisma 9 (-1)
Skills: Athletics +5, Intimidation +1, Perception +3
Passive perception: 13
Challenge Rating: 1/2 (100 XP)
Deadly Strike: Once per turn the temple guard can do 1 extra damage die on a melee weapon hit (included in stats).
Actions:
• Longsword: Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 12 (2d8+3) slashing or piercing damage.
• Shortbow: Ranged Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, one target. Hit: 6 (1d8+2) piercing damage.
HD 4
Elf Scout, female
Medium humanoid
Armor Class: 13 (+3 DEX)
Hit Points: 22 (4d8+4)
Proficiency +2
Speed: 40 ft unarmoured (30 ft. standard)
Strength 8 (-1), Dexterity 16 (+3), Constitution 12 (+1), Intelligence 13 (+1), Wisdom 14 (+2), Charisma 10 (+0)
Skills: Survival +6 (Expertise), Perception +4, Kno (Nature) +3
Passive perception: 14
Challenge Rating: 3/4 (150 XP)
Actions
She can make 2 longbow attacks or 1 dagger attack per attack action.
Longbow ATT +5 dam: 1d8+3 (2 attacks)
Dagger ATT +5 dam: 1d4+3 (1 attack)
-------------------------------------
HD 5
Chosen Axeman
Medium humanoid
Armor Class 12 (unarmoured defence)
Hit Points 32 (5d8 + 10)
Speed 30 ft.
STR 15 (+2) DEX 11 (+0) CON 14 (+2) INT 10 (+0) WIS 11 (+0) CHA 10 (+0)
Skills Intimidation +2
Senses passive Perception 10
Languages Altanian, Common
Challenge 1 (200 XP)
Pack Tactics. The Axeman has advantage on a melee attack roll against
a creature if at least one of the Axeman’s allies is within 5 feet of
the creature, and the ally isn’t incapacitated.
Actions
Multiattack. The Axeman makes two melee attacks.
Great Axe. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature.
Hit: 8 (1d12 + 2) slashing damage.
Javelin (2) Missile Weapon Attack +4 to hit,
Hit: 5 (1d6+2) piercing damage.
-----------------------------------------
Dwarven Elite Clan Guard
Medium humanoid
Armor Class: 18 (plate)
Hit Points: 32 (5d8+10)
Proficiency +2
Speed: 25 ft.
Strength 16 (+3), Dexterity 10 (+0), Constitution 14 (+2), Intelligence 10 (0), Wisdom 11 (+0), Charisma 10 (0)
Skills: Intimidation +2, Insight +2, Perception +2
Passive perception: 12
Challenge Rating: 2 (450 XP)
Actions
Attack - the Clan Guard makes two attacks per attack action.
Reactions
The Clan Guard can make an Opportunity Attack with halberd against any foe entering its reach.
Weapon:
Halberd (reach 10') Attack +5 damage: 1d10+3
_________________________________________
Ranger, female
Medium humanoid (human)
Armor Class: 14 (12 studded leather, +2 DEX)
Hit Points: 28 (5d8+5)
Proficiency +2
Speed: 30 ft.
Strength 9 (-1), Dexterity 14 (+2), Constitution 12 (+1), Intelligence 12 (+1), Wisdom 14 (+2), Charisma 15 (+2)
Skills: Survival +4, Perception +4, Nature +2, Stealth +4
Passive perception: 14
Challenge Rating: 1 (200 XP)
Actions
She can make 2 longbow attacks or 2 shortsword attacks per attack action. She can use a Bonus action to make a third shortsword attack.
Longbow ATT +4 dam: 1d8+2 (2 attacks)
Shortsword ATT +4 dam: 1d6+2 (3 attacks)
Favoured Enemy: Gnolls, Humans. Advantage on Survival rolls to track and Int rolls to recall knowledge. Knows Gnoll-tongue as well as Common.
Natural Explorer - Plains.
Fighting Style - Two Weapon.
Equipment includes Explorer's pack
-------------------------------------------------
HD 7
Sorceress, Experienced
Armor Class 14 with mage armour, 11 without
Hit Points 31 (7d8) Healing Dice: 3 (d8)
Speed 30 ft.
STR 8 (-1) DEX 12 (+1) CON 10 (+0) INT 15 (+2) WIS 9 (-1) CHA 17 (+3)
Good saves INT, WIS
Proficiency +2
Perception +1 Arcana +4
Passive Perception 11
Spellcasting. She is a 5th level spellcaster (Sorcerer spells). Her spellcasting ability is Charisma (spell save DC 13, +5 to hit with spell attacks).
Cantrips (4)
Dancing Lights (conc, phb 230)
Fire Bolt (120', att +5, 1d10 fire damage)
Light (20' r, +20' r dim)
Mage Hand (r 30', action to control, 1 minute, 10 lb weight)
Spells Known (4) Spell slots: 4 1st 2, 2nd
1st level
1. Magic Missile (120', 3 force darts, 1d4+1 damage each), 4 at 2nd
2. Mage Armour (touch, unarmoured target gets AC 13+DEX for 8 hrs)
3. Burning Hands (15' cone, targets make DC 13 Dex save or take 3d6 fire damage, half damage if save, ignites flammable objects), 4d6 at 2nd
2nd level
1. Detect Thoughts (phb 231 - surface thoughts/wis save dc 13 if deep probe, target knows)
3rd Level
Fly
SA: liable to wild magic surge, phb pg 104
HD 9
-----------------------------------
Elf Mage
Medium humanoid (Elf)
Armor Class 13 (16 with mage armor)
Hit Points 40 (9d8) Proficiency +3
Speed 30 ft.
STR 8 (−1) DEX 16 (+3) CON 10 (0) INT 18 (+4) WIS 12 (+1) CHA 13 (+1)
Saving Throws Int +7, Wis +4
Skills Arcana +7, Persuasion +4, Perception +4
Senses passive Perception 14. Darkvision 60'.
Languages Common Elf Orc Goblin
Challenge 6 (2,300 XP)
Fey Ancestry. Advantage vs Charm & cannot be Sleeped.
Spellcasting. The elf mage is a 9th-level spellcaster. Its
spellcasting ability is Intelligence (spell save DC 15, +7 to
hit with spell attacks). The mage typically has the following wizard
spells prepared:
Cantrips (at will): fire bolt, light, mage hand, prestidigitation
1st level (4 slots): detect magic, mage armor, magic
missile, shield
2nd level (3 slots): misty step, suggestion
3rd level (3 slots): counterspell, fireball, fly
4th level (3 slots): greater invisibility, ice storm
5th level (1 slot): wall of stone OR dominate person
Actions
Dagger. Melee or Ranged Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft. or
range 20/60 ft., one target. Hit: 4 (1d4 + 3) piercing damage.
___________________________
HD 11
-----------------------------------
Dwarf Hero
AC 18 (half plate 15, +2 shield, +1 dex), 16 no shield.
HP 72 (11d8+22) Healing Dice 5 (d8+2)
Speed 25'
STR 16 (+3) DEX 12 (+1) CON 14 (+2) INT 12 (+1) WIS 8 (-1) CHA 13 (+1)
Proficiency +3
Good Saves STR, CON.
Perception +2 (11)
CR 4
ACTIONS
Multiattack: He makes two warhammer attacks.
+1 Warhammer: ATT +7, dam 1d8+6 blunt damage. x2
Dwarven Heavy Crossbow: ATT +4, range 100'/400', dam 2d10+1/1d10+1, 2 rounds to reload.
Bolts: 12
--------------------------------------------
Elf Knight
Medium humanoid (Elf), any alignment
Armor Class 18 (+2 studded leather, +4 DEX, +2 shield)
Hit Points 72 (11d8 + 22) Proficiency +3
Speed 30 ft.
STR 14 (+2) DEX 18 (+4) CON 14 (+2) INT 11 (+0) WIS 10 (+0) CHA 13 (+1)
Saving Throws Con +5, Wis +3
Athletics +5 Acrobatics +7 History +3 Perception +3
Senses passive Perception 13. Darkvision 60'.
Languages Common, Elf
Challenge 6 (2300 XP)
Fey Ancestry. Advantage vs Charm & cannot be Sleeped.
Indomitable. The knight cannot be Frightened.
Duelist. +2 melee damage with single 1-handed weapon.
Duelist Strike: +13 (3d8) damage 1/round with a melee attack vs a single target with no adjacent allies.
Action Surge. The knight may take an extra Action, once per Short Rest.
Actions
Multiattack. The knight makes two melee or ranged attacks.
+2 Rapier. Melee Weapon Attack: +9 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
target. Hit: 12 (1d8 + 8) piercing damage, 25 (4d8+8) with Duelist Strike.
------------------------------------
Longbow. Ranged Weapon Attack +7 to hit, one target. Hit 8 (1d8+4) piercing damage.
High Priest hd 11
Medium humanoid (any race), any alignment
Armor Class 20 (+5 from +1 breastplate, +2 DEX, +1 ring of protection, +2 from shield)
Hit Points 75 (11d8 + 22)
Proficiency +4
Speed 30 ft.
STR 10 (+0) DEX 14 (+2) CON 14 (+2) INT 12 (+1) WIS 18 (+4) CHA 16 (+3)
Saves WIS +8 CHA +7
Skills Medicine +7, Persuasion +7, Religion +8
Senses passive Perception 14
Languages any two languages
Divine Eminence. As a bonus action, the priest can expend a spell slot to cause its melee weapon attacks to magically deal an extra 10 (3d6) radiant damage to a target on a hit. This benefit lasts until the end of the turn. If the priest expends a spell slot of 2nd level or higher, the extra damage increases by 1d6 for each level above 1st.
Divine Intervention 11%, 1/week.
Spellcasting. The high priest is an 11th-level spellcaster. Its spellcasting ability is Wisdom (spell save DC 16, +8 to hit with spell attacks). The high priest has the following cleric spells prepared:
Cantrips (at will): guidance, light, sacred flame, thaumaturgy, spare the dying
Spells (15)
1st level (4 slots): cure wounds, healing word, bless,
2nd level (3 slots): lesser restoration, spiritual weapon
3rd level (3 slots): dispel magic, mass healing word, spirit guardians, revivify
4th level (3 slots): Death Ward, Divination, Freedom of Movement
5th level (2 slots): Flame Strike, Commune
6th level (1 slot): Blade Barrier
Actions
+1 Shortsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target.
Hit: 1d6+3 piercing damage.
------------------------------------
HD 12
Avenger, Experienced
AC 15 (chain shirt 13, +2 dex)
HP 78 (12d8+24) Healing Dice 6 (d8+2)
Speed 30'
STR 16 (+3) DEX 15 (+2) CON 14 (+2) INT 11 (0) WIS 14 (+2) CHA 10 (+0)
Proficiency +3
Good Saves WIS, CON.
Perception +5 (15)
Stealth +8 (spec)
Survival +5
CR 4
SA: Deadly Killer - he does +1d6 damage with his chosen weapons.
SA: Multiattack - He makes 2 attacks per attack action.
ATTACKS
+1 Greatsword: ATT +7 damage 14 (3d6+4), two attacks.
6 Throwing Blades (finesse weapon): ATT +6 damage 10 (2d6+3), two attacks. Range 20'/60'.
Equipment: wilderness survival gear, 2 potions of healing (2d4+2), 6d6gp.
----------------------------------
HD 14
LOREMASTER BARD
Medium humanoid (human)
Armor Class 13 (15 with mage armor) (10/13, +2 DEX +1 ring of protection)
Hit Points 69 (14d8+14)
Proficiency +4
Speed 30 ft.
STR 8 (−1) DEX 14 (+2) CON 12 (+1) INT 14 (+2) WIS 16 (+3) CHA 20 (+5)
Saving Throws Wisdom +7 Charisma +9, +1 to all with ring
Skills Arcana +10 (Expertise), Persuasion +13 (Expertise), Perception +7.
Senses passive Perception 17
Challenge 8
Spellcasting. She is a 14th level Bard-list spellcaster, spellcasting ability is Charisma (spell save DC 17, +9 to hit with spell attacks).
Cantrips (4): friends, light, mage hand, mending
Spells
She knows the following 18 spells:
1st level (4 slots): Burning Hands, Detect Magic, Mage Armor, Healing Word
2nd level (3 slots): Detect Thoughts, Suggestion
3rd level (3 slots): Counterspell, Dispel Magic, Fireball, Revivify, Speak with Dead
4th level (3 slots): Compulsion
5th level (2 slots): Scrying, Raise Dead
6th level (1 slot) Mass Suggestion, Globe of Invulnerability
7th level (1 slot) Fire Storm (as Sorcerer), Teleport
SA: Song of Rest +5 hp recovery on short rest to those who can hear it.
MI: d4+4 potions of healing, Ring of Protection +1 AC & Saves, 1d4+1 doses of Keoghtom's Ointment
-------------------------------------
Amazon Weaponmaster
Medium humanoid (human)
Armor Class 18 (11 torc & ring, +4 DEX, +2 shield, , +1 psychic), 16 no shield
Hit Points 92 (14d8 + 28)
Proficiency +3
Speed 30 ft.
STR 12 (+1) DEX 18 (+4) CON 14 (+2) INT 10 (+0) WIS 10 (+0) CHA 14 (+2)
Saving Throws Dex +7, Wis +3
Athletics +4 Acrobatics +7 History +3 Perception +3
Senses passive Perception 13.
Challenge 7
Duelist. +2 melee damage with single 1-handed weapon.
Martial Advantage: 1/turn she can do +14 (+4d6) damage to a creature she hits with a melee attack, if that creature is within 5 feet of an ally of hers that isn’t incapacitated.
Actions
Multiattack. She makes two melee or ranged attacks.
+1 Rapier. Melee Weapon Attack: +8 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
target. Hit: 11 (1d8 + 7) piercing damage, 25 (+4d6) 1/turn with Martial Advantage.
Longbow. Ranged Weapon Attack +7 to hit, one target. Hit 8 (1d8+4) piercing damage.
__________________________________________________
HD 16
Pirate Queen
AC 15, AC 18 vs one melee attack each round that would otherwise hit (Reaction: Parry)
Hit Points 120 (16d8+48)
Proficiency +3
Speed 40' when unarmoured, otherwise 30'
STR 12 (+1)
DEX 18 (+4)
CON 16 (+3)
INT 12 (+1)
WIS 12 (+1)
CHA 16 (+3)
Saving Throws DEX +7 CON +6 WIS +4
Skills Athletics +4 Acrobatics +7 Intimidation +6
Passive Perception 14
Traits
Pirate's Defence: + 1 AC when unarmoured
Brave: advantage on saving throws vs being Frightened
Slayer: + one damage die with any weapon (included)
Parry: Reaction, +3 AC vs one melee attack each round that would otherwise hit
Actions
Multiattack: She makes 3 melee attacks.
Cutlass: ATT +7 dam 13 (2d8+4), 1-handed.
Boat Spear: ATT +7 dam 13 (2d8+4), 2-handed, reach 10'. ATT+9 vs sea monsters!
Dirty Kick: ATT +7 dam dam 9 (2d4+4). A Medium or smaller humanoid creature must make a DC 15 STR saving throw or be either knocked prone or pushed 5' (Sarene's choice).
_______________________________________________
HD 18
Barbarian Hero
Medium humanoid
Armor Class 14 (dex, unarmoured toughness)
Hit Points 134 (18d8 + 54)
hd 9 (d12+3)
Speed 40 ft.
STR 20 (+5) DEX 12 (+1) CON 17 (+3) INT 9 (−1) WIS 9 (-1) CHA 12 (+1)
Senses passive Perception 12
Languages Common
Challenge 7
Proficiency +3
Actions
Multiattack. He makes two melee attacks.
Berserk. On the second & subsequent rounds of combat, he can make a third attack as a bonus action. Suffers 1 level of exhaustion, recover through short rest 3/day.
+1 Greataxe. Melee Weapon Attack: +9 to hit, reach 5 ft., one
target. Hit: (15) 1d12 + 9 slashing damage (+5 STR +3 Rage +1 magic), crit (28) 3d12+9.
Javelin (2), Missile Weapon Attack +8 to hit, Hit: 1d6+8 piercing damage, crit 3d6+8.
------------------------------------------------------------
HD 20
Barbarian Great Warlord
Great Warlord
Medium humanoid
Armor Class 17 (+2 dex, +5 unarmoured toughness)
Hit Points 190 (20d8 +100)
Proficiency +4
Speed 40 ft.
STR 20 (+5) DEX 14 (+2) CON 20 (+5) INT 12 (+1) WIS 10 (+0) CHA 14 (+2)
Saves STR +9 CON +9 WIS +5
Senses passive Perception 15
Languages Altanian, Common
Challenge 10
SA
Danger Sense - Advantage on DEX saves
Feral Instinct - Advantage on Initiative rolls
Actions
Multiattack. The Great Warlord makes two melee attacks & 1 bonus melee attack.
Javelin (2) Missile Weapon Attack +9 to hit,
Hit: 1d6+5 piercing damage.
Yusan - Sword of Bondorr
+2 Greatsword, Dragonslayer. Melee Weapon Attack: +11 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 2d6+10 slashing damage (+5 STR +3 Rage +2 magic) (3 attacks) (crit 6d6+10)
Sword does +3d6 damage vs dragons and dragon-blooded (Orichalans etc).
The sword when drawn gives its wielder immunity to enchantment/charm effects.
Minars Rapak - Axe of Minars
+1 Altanian War Axe, 10' reach & Polearm Master.
Melee Weapon Attack: +10 to hit, reach 10 ft, one target. Hit: 2d12+9 slashing damage (2 attacks), 2d4+9 blunt damage (bonus attack).
Opportunity Attack on enemy entering Reach.
----------------------------
Knight Commander
Medium humanoid (human)
Armor Class 22 (+1 full plate & +1 shield), AC 19 no shield.
Hit Points 150 (hd 20d8+60)
Speed 30 ft.
PB +4
STR 20 (+5) DEX 16 (+3) CON 16 (+3) INT 12 (+1) WIS 10 (+0) CHA 15 (+2)
Saving Throws Con +7, Wis +4
Skills Athletics +9 History + 5 Bluff +6 Persuasion +6 Intimidate +6
Senses passive Perception 14
Languages Common
Challenge 11
Traits
Double damage dice with any weapon
Crit on 19-20
Brutal Critical. +2 dice
Brave. The knight has advantage on saving throws against being frightened.
Duelist: +2 damage with 1-handed melee weapon.
Actions
Multiattack. The knight makes three attacks per attack action.
+1 Longsword, three attacks, Attack +12 to hit (PB 4, +5 STR, +1 magic, +2 leadership).
Hit: (17) 2d8+8 (+5 STR +2 duellist +1 magic), crit 19-20 for (35) 6d8+8.
+1 Longbow, three attacks, Attack +10 to hit (PB 4, +3 DEX, +1 magic, +2 leadership)
Hit: (13) 2d8+4 (+3 DEX +1 magic), crit 19-20 for (31) 6d8+4
Leadership (Recharges after a Short or Long Rest). For 1 minute, the knight can utter a special command or warning whenever the knight himself or a nonhostile creature that it can see within 30 feet of it makes an attack roll or a saving throw. The creature can add +2 to its roll provided it can hear and understand the knight. A creature can benefit from only one Leadership bonus at a time. This effect ends if the knight is incapacitated.
Wednesday, 28 September 2016
My Shattered Star/Runelords mash-up campaign
Game blog is here:
http://smonscurseofthecrimsonthrone.blogspot.co.uk/
In previous campaigns (1) running Rise of the Runelords, party TPK'd in Book 1 and
Sandpoint destroyed (2) Curse of the Crimson Throne completed.
I started off the campaign with the premise from SS1 Shards of Sin, the PCs are Pathfinders seeking to recover the Sihedron shards. But at the same time one of the Runelords has awoken and is growing in power per RotR. After SS1 and SS2 the PCs were sent by Sheila Heidmarch to Sandpoint
region to investigate the Skinsaw Murders.
Idea is basically to interweave the quest for the Sihedron (SS) with the rise of Karzoug
(RR). The way SS is structured, SS1-5 are necessary with SS6 optional, whereas with RR the connections are pretty loose and I can leave out material but would probably want to use RR5 & RR6
as a climax.
My reason for doing it like this was that I found Crimson Throne a bit railroady and
constraining. Using two APs lets me open things up and get more of a living world feel. Also I want to slow the pace down, especially in the mid levels (running CotCT in Pathfinder the PCs were levelling every 2 sessions, doubling in power every 4 sessions).
Read more: http://www.enworld.org/forum/showthread.php?489269-Actual-play-experience-with-5e-XP-system-does-speed-of-progression-change-at-11th-level/page3#ixzz4LXKcgOQU
http://smonscurseofthecrimsonthrone.blogspot.co.uk/
In previous campaigns (1) running Rise of the Runelords, party TPK'd in Book 1 and
Sandpoint destroyed (2) Curse of the Crimson Throne completed.
I started off the campaign with the premise from SS1 Shards of Sin, the PCs are Pathfinders seeking to recover the Sihedron shards. But at the same time one of the Runelords has awoken and is growing in power per RotR. After SS1 and SS2 the PCs were sent by Sheila Heidmarch to Sandpoint
region to investigate the Skinsaw Murders.
Idea is basically to interweave the quest for the Sihedron (SS) with the rise of Karzoug
(RR). The way SS is structured, SS1-5 are necessary with SS6 optional, whereas with RR the connections are pretty loose and I can leave out material but would probably want to use RR5 & RR6
as a climax.
My reason for doing it like this was that I found Crimson Throne a bit railroady and
constraining. Using two APs lets me open things up and get more of a living world feel. Also I want to slow the pace down, especially in the mid levels (running CotCT in Pathfinder the PCs were levelling every 2 sessions, doubling in power every 4 sessions).
Read more: http://www.enworld.org/forum/showthread.php?489269-Actual-play-experience-with-5e-XP-system-does-speed-of-progression-change-at-11th-level/page3#ixzz4LXKcgOQU
Saturday, 21 May 2016
Conversation with JesterRalin - On Running Multiple Campaigns
From http://www.therpgsite.com/showthread.php?34503-quot-an-ancient-evil-has-awoken-quot-or-the-Big-Threat-plot-device&p=898663#post898663
Wow. Well done. I'm flattered. 
4 campaigns at once is really too many I think; I'm planning to rest the weekly online Ghinarian Hills one (5e S&S) for a bit until I can conclude the fortnightly Loudwater (4e Epic) one in August. I can't rest my weekly Mentzer Classic Karameikos game since I love the players too much & my son plays in it & would kill me.
Also one of the players is a brilliant instigator, her renegade Claudia Morrigan Thief PC is returning with plans to wreak horrible revenge on erstwhile Cleric PC comrade Roseanna 'the White Dame' and I'm keen to see how that plays out. My 5e Shattered Star game is trucking along nicely fortnightly, wisest thing there is not to mess with it.
To the extent I have a secret for running 3-4 games, it's minimal prep - only the Pathfinder AP ones ever take much work. Taking good post-session notes is the main thing I do. Generally it's just as easy to create material at the table as beforehand, and simple published adventures (eg Basic Fantasy stuff) make just as good a canvas as complicated ones.
Hah. My memory is crap! I often ask players to remind me of stuff; or in the online game minutes pass while I go look stuff up (usually stats). There's a lot of duck-paddling going on too.
A few good resources are important - for Wilderlands that's the Ghinarian Hills campaign page and the NPC stats blog. For Karameikos it's GAZ 1 Grand Duchy of Karameikos. Plus published old school modules for both, simpler the better. The d6 is my friend, rolling to see if something happens - on a '6' X happens, which might be a wandering monster table roll but equally well could be the Griffon Riders of Highaven swooping in to aid the heroes' battle, or interception by the undead war fleet of Neo-Nerath - whatever looks plausible.
There is a lot of not sweating the small stuff, plus a lot of "God I wish I'd taken 30 minutes to do some prep before running this session".
I guess I'm quite good at multitasking, which really means "do X quickly, then stop doing X and do Y" - and only do as much as you need (I usually do too little & too late). I do very little 'push the story', I have some very very broad general ideas about enemy threats, but the main trick is getting into the head of enemy NPCs so they act and react naturalistically in the moment. This means the players are often taken by surprise - the antagonists' agendas rarely focus around the PCs so they often act unpredictably, in pursuit of their own goals. Villains don't just sit there, but neither do I have piles of notes on what they'll do next, I have a very simple basic idea of what eg Warlord Yusan wants and what he'll do to get it.
Shattered Star AP is nice - plays much better than it reads - and blending it with Rise of the Runelords AP will keep it fresh for me, I know upfront I'm not likely to use everything (eg might never use Book 6). Crimson Throne AP was really tough though; read well but really hard to run. Running SS in 5e so I know to ignore most of what's in the stat blocks helps a lot. I am feeling depleted since restarting Loudwater though (plus my non-gaming social life is getting busy) so planning to rest the Wilderlands campaign after one more session. That will leave me with 3 games, 1 weekly & 2 alternate fortnightly, which has been ok so far. I think I'm going to try to keep it to maximum 3 campaigns in future.
Grabbing an appropriate monster stat block out of the 5e MM. Sometimes the 5e version is pathetically weak, eg the lemures in book 1 of SS. A bit of variation is ok but a whole dungeon level of trivially weak critters got the players complaining. So I hit em with an ooze/hellhound combo and nearly killed one of them, they shut up then.
In general running SS in 5e has been far far easier than running Crimson Throne with Pathfinder. Paizo's tendency to include obscure monsters from Bestiary #5 without bothering with a PF statblock is annoying, considering how much space they waste on other stuff. Eg the Fiendish Seugathi in book 2 has no parrallel in any D&D creature. But this is still a minor issue compared to the brain-scrambling effect of trying to run a 3-page 3e/PF stat block off the page in Pathfinder rules.
Originally Posted by JesterRaiin 
Well, they have to justify their 99$ worth yet-another-monster-pack books somehow.
I think I've seen a fanmade attempt to create enemy tables for PFRPG, 3,5 some OSR (I don't recall its title) and most recently 5th. It was a huge Excel spreadsheet where you could select a creature from one system and see some "close enough" alternatives for other systems. Wasn't perfect, but worked just fine. I wonder whether the project continues...
I generally just pick the closest with similar CR. So eg I use 5e Black Pudding stats where the PF adventure says Gray Ooze, because 5e Gray Oozes have a crappy CR and 5e Black Pudding has a similar CR to PF Gray Ooze. Last session PCs fought a Cave Giant 'CR 6, see monster book XX' - I just looked for a 5e giant with similar CR and decided the 5e MM CR 7 stone giant was close enough for my 5 PC, 5th level group. I could have used hill giant stats if my group was weak.
I think in future I may just substitute entire monsters, eg that CR 8 Seugathi could have been any old demon or devil of similar CR. The trick is to select a monster of similar-ish CR, rather than one that looks the same but is vastly weaker or tougher.
Originally Posted by JesterRaiin
4 campaigns at once is really too many I think; I'm planning to rest the weekly online Ghinarian Hills one (5e S&S) for a bit until I can conclude the fortnightly Loudwater (4e Epic) one in August. I can't rest my weekly Mentzer Classic Karameikos game since I love the players too much & my son plays in it & would kill me.
Also one of the players is a brilliant instigator, her renegade Claudia Morrigan Thief PC is returning with plans to wreak horrible revenge on erstwhile Cleric PC comrade Roseanna 'the White Dame' and I'm keen to see how that plays out. My 5e Shattered Star game is trucking along nicely fortnightly, wisest thing there is not to mess with it.To the extent I have a secret for running 3-4 games, it's minimal prep - only the Pathfinder AP ones ever take much work. Taking good post-session notes is the main thing I do. Generally it's just as easy to create material at the table as beforehand, and simple published adventures (eg Basic Fantasy stuff) make just as good a canvas as complicated ones.
Originally Posted by JesterRaiin
I often ask players to remind me of stuff; or in the online game minutes pass while I go look stuff up (usually stats). There's a lot of duck-paddling going on too. A few good resources are important - for Wilderlands that's the Ghinarian Hills campaign page and the NPC stats blog. For Karameikos it's GAZ 1 Grand Duchy of Karameikos. Plus published old school modules for both, simpler the better. The d6 is my friend, rolling to see if something happens - on a '6' X happens, which might be a wandering monster table roll but equally well could be the Griffon Riders of Highaven swooping in to aid the heroes' battle, or interception by the undead war fleet of Neo-Nerath - whatever looks plausible.
There is a lot of not sweating the small stuff, plus a lot of "God I wish I'd taken 30 minutes to do some prep before running this session".
Originally Posted by JesterRaiin
Originally Posted by JesterRaiin
Originally Posted by JesterRaiin
In general running SS in 5e has been far far easier than running Crimson Throne with Pathfinder. Paizo's tendency to include obscure monsters from Bestiary #5 without bothering with a PF statblock is annoying, considering how much space they waste on other stuff. Eg the Fiendish Seugathi in book 2 has no parrallel in any D&D creature. But this is still a minor issue compared to the brain-scrambling effect of trying to run a 3-page 3e/PF stat block off the page in Pathfinder rules.
Originally Posted by JesterRaiin Well, they have to justify their 99$ worth yet-another-monster-pack books somehow.
I think I've seen a fanmade attempt to create enemy tables for PFRPG, 3,5 some OSR (I don't recall its title) and most recently 5th. It was a huge Excel spreadsheet where you could select a creature from one system and see some "close enough" alternatives for other systems. Wasn't perfect, but worked just fine. I wonder whether the project continues...
I think in future I may just substitute entire monsters, eg that CR 8 Seugathi could have been any old demon or devil of similar CR. The trick is to select a monster of similar-ish CR, rather than one that looks the same but is vastly weaker or tougher.
Wednesday, 4 May 2016
Progression Rate and XP
I'm running Classic, which is very similar to 2e except that the XP to level requirements top out at about half those of 1e/2e, so eg a Fighter needs 120,000 to level not 250,000 and a Wizard needs 150,000 not 300,000. The Classic Rules Cyclopedia recommends 5 sessions to level (2e I recall says 10 sessions?) which I think is a good aim point and is midway between 2e and 3e-4e-5e's indicated 2-3 sessions/level. RC suggests handing out enough gold that PCs get 20% of XP from the monsters, 80% from gold. I can't see any real reason to hand out artificially inflated amounts of gold, so instead I increase monster XP, give normal gold XP, give quest and discretionary award XP - the RC recommends these awards be 1/20 the amount needed to level, again about half the recommended amount for such awards in 3e/4e/5e.
I noticed that I could take 20-30 minutes calculating XP and it would come out within a couple hundred of what I'd have given as an arbitrary session award (eg 20,220 calculated vs 20,000 I'd have just handed out), so now sometimes I do arbitrary awards BUT I periodically do the full calculation to make sure I'm not drifting/inflating awards. I'm aiming for around 20,000-25,000 XP for a successful session, varying from maybe 8-10,000 for a light session up to around 30-35,000 for something really big. That way the PCs are leveling up about every 5-8 sessions of play currently; later as they get higher level the awards will increase somewhat and progression rate will likely increase a bit.
Read more: http://www.enworld.org/forum/showthread.php?485226-Leveling-Up-in-2E#ixzz47geyplGs
I noticed that I could take 20-30 minutes calculating XP and it would come out within a couple hundred of what I'd have given as an arbitrary session award (eg 20,220 calculated vs 20,000 I'd have just handed out), so now sometimes I do arbitrary awards BUT I periodically do the full calculation to make sure I'm not drifting/inflating awards. I'm aiming for around 20,000-25,000 XP for a successful session, varying from maybe 8-10,000 for a light session up to around 30-35,000 for something really big. That way the PCs are leveling up about every 5-8 sessions of play currently; later as they get higher level the awards will increase somewhat and progression rate will likely increase a bit.
Read more: http://www.enworld.org/forum/showthread.php?485226-Leveling-Up-in-2E#ixzz47geyplGs
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