|
|
 |
|
|
 |
The development of 5th edition of Vampire The Masquerade continues to be, in my opinon, a disaster.
This is a game that has forsaken a great deal of its identity and character in exchange for gimmick mechanics and odd changes. In terms of identity the game presents itself as an unusual chimera between Masquerade and Requiem. Attributes, skills, and even disciplines follow the examples and philosophies of Requiem, when they're not completely new inventions with no bearing in previous editions. Now I have no problem with Requiem, its a fine game, but it is distinct from Masquerade, and I feel that both games are being done a disservice with this edition. With this drastic mechanical change over it is difficult for me to convert a character from a previous editon to this one while maintianing the crunch of the character, a feat that was very easy previously.
A far more distressing change, however, is the relience on hunger dice. This is a gimmick mechanic that takes control away f...
Rating: [1 of 5 Stars!] |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
I gave this book five stars for very good reasons.
First, the layout, Secrets of the Masquerade has made a commendable job as far as art direction goes, with a mixture of some familiar pieces from previous editions as well as new and exclusive art. It is readable, easy on the eyes and well designed.
Second, the content, the book include a header on the impact of games in our day, as well as a few points on how role-playing games in particular are an excellent tool for fun and education, if done right. It contain some tips on role-playing delicate topics such as religion and politics, which are pervasive theme in a game such as Vampire. There are tips and insight on creating long-lasting and short stories, the structure of a role playing game, and creating a setting that is true to the real places, not to mention a deep look at the psychology of kindred. And a lot more.
Overall, the book is a must have for any ST looking for helpful tips on enriching their games.
...
Rating: [5 of 5 Stars!] |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
When I'm planning to run a game I'll skim through books to pick up ideas, thought forms, and strings of concepts that I can utilize to hang a story on. The great thing about this book is that it provides that in heaps with Chapter 2. The NPC, Dr. Grillard is amazing, and I won't spoil anything, but he is a very dark and purposeful beast. He would be a villain I would easily pull into a chronicle. Then, there are the Rolling 13s, who are an awesome group for folks to bring into their Florida based games. So, win-win on the NPC concept front.
Then, for those of you that love your crunch, you've got Chapter 3 and 4, which provide Enhancements and Procedures that you can use for either Dr. Grillard, or other Progenitors that you might use in your own games. So, for this price, the book is 100% worth every dime, regardless of the types of things you are interested in getting out of a book....
Rating: [5 of 5 Stars!] |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
For TLDR, scroll to the bottom.
On initial inspection of this book, it offers a lot of new and tantelizing content. To a flexible and amenible Dungeon Master/Castle Keeper such as myself, it is exactly that.
However, it is stated in the Systems and Rules (Chapter 1) that it makes reference of the Wizards of the Coast's 3.0 SRD, as opposed to the core rulebooks of 5th Edition. Additionally, the writers make comment to the fact that from previous editions, the Druid's Animal Companion and the Paladin's mount were removed, and claimed to provide a way of returning those mechanisms. However, in the actual description of Advantages (which may as well be called Feats since they function the exact same way, and are even stated as only being gain-able when a player could take an ASI or feat) does not acknowledge this. I quote from the Animal Companion [General] advantage description: "You gain the ability to form loyal bonds with animals, allowing you to *gain an animal companion in the ...
Rating: [2 of 5 Stars!] |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Log In 
