BrooklynKnight
First Post
Start of #d20-modern buffer: Wed Nov 17 00:32:27 2004
[21:07] <.BrooklynKnight> Welcome to #d20-modern everyone. Tonight we have special guests Christopher Perkins
and Rodney Thompson with us, authors of WOTC's D20 Future rules supplement for D20 Modern.
[21:07] <@CPerkins> Unfortunately, JD Wiker (the third author of d20 Future) cannot join us this evening. He sends his
regrets.
[21:08] <@RodneyThompson> Yes, he regrets that you're stuck with us!
[21:08] <@Garen> <insert malicious cackle>
[21:08] <.BrooklynKnight> The focus of this chat is for D20 Future, please send all your questions via private
message to me, BrooklynKnight, and they will be added to a que to be posted in the chatroom. I'll post the
next questions after either of our guests let me know they are done answering the first with -done-. You
may start sending your questions, now.
[21:10] <.BrooklynKnight> <otter> how is the battle system for spaceships set up in d20 future?
[21:10] <@CPerkins> We wrote D20 FUTURE just over a year ago, so forgive us if we need a few seconds to think about our
answers.
[21:10] <@RodneyThompson> Chris? I believe you did a bunch on starships...
[21:11] <@CPerkins> Spaceship combat is treated very similarly to character combat in d20 Modern. Ships have move actions,
attack actions, and free actions. The ships themselves behave more like creatures than vehicles. It'
[21:12] <@CPerkins> The vehicle rules weren't ideal for big starship battles, which is why the ships behave like constructs
(in a fashion).
[21:13] <@CPerkins> Big starship battles aren't the place for heroes to really strut their stuff, but they can be fun to
play out nonetheless. /ga
[21:13] <.BrooklynKnight> <kingpaul> Will there be further supplements just for Future?
[21:14] * Quits: gordoss_vaa
[21:14] <@CPerkins> D20 FUTURE has done extremely well, so yes, in all likelihood you'll see something new for the game.
[21:15] <@CPerkins> I'd be interested in hearing what supplements most appeal to you.
[21:15] <@RodneyThompson> Well, not speaking for anyone else, I can say that I am working on a future-based supplement for
The Game Mechanics at this point.
[21:15] <@Vigilance> d20 Apocalypse, which has been announced is for d20 Future is it not?
[21:15] <@RodneyThompson> Though I can say no more than that regarding that particular project.
[21:16] <@RodneyThompson> Oh, and -done- for me.
[21:16] * Quits: Ardent
[21:16] <@CPerkins> d20 Apocalypse is designed for use with both the d20 Modern RPG and d20 Future. It certainly has some
obvious ties to the latter (more mutations, for example). /ga
[21:17] <.BrooklynKnight> If anyone likes, feel free to send me your opinions on supplements that appeal to you
for future and I'll forward the comments to Chris' mail box. Or visit the D20 Future Board at the Official
Boards.
[21:17] <.BrooklynKnight> <Talon_Razor> Q: How will starship creation be handled?
[21:17] <@RodneyThompson> And another for Mr. Perkins!
[21:17] <@RodneyThompson> Perhaps I should go get a book to read.
[21:18] <@CPerkins> In d20 Future, we present a whole bunch of different starship types/subtypes that can be infinitely
modified. However, we didn't have the space to include rules for creating new starship subtypes. Maybe that's something
that can be addressed in a future supplement.
[21:19] <@CPerkins> We tried to present most of the baseline starships you'd need in the d20 Future book, however. /ga
[21:20] <@RodneyThompson> Also, if you're looking for some more templates for the ships (to give you new ships based on the
existing types) you can check out Dungeon #113 for five new templates not in the d20 Future book.
[21:20] <@RodneyThompson> -done-
[21:20] <@CPerkins> It's a great article. -done-
[21:21] <.BrooklynKnight> <kingpaul> piggy-backing off of the space-combat, how would they rule attacks on people? for
example, say a swarm of soldiers in powered armor were trying board?
[21:22] <@RodneyThompson> In that case, most soldiers would be too small to be hit effectively by standard laser weapons.
For boarding forcefully, though, you could defend with personal-scale point defense weapons and run it as character
combat.
[21:22] <@RodneyThompson> And that should read "most soldiers would be too small to be hit effectively by standard starship
weapons"
[21:23] <@CPerkins> What Rodney said. Starship weapon systems don't do extremely well against such small targets in space,
although point defense weapons have a chance of taking out soldiers in spacesuits. Once the soldiers reach the ship's
hull, it's no longer a starship battle. Time to deploy the starship troopers at that point (it turns into a
character-vs.-character fight). -done-
[21:23] <@RodneyThompson> -done-
[21:23] * Quits: @CPerkins (User has been mind-ripped)
[21:24] <.BrooklynKnight> err, we'll wait for Chris to get back, heh his connection seems to have faltered
[21:24] <@RodneyThompson> Ruh-roh, he'll be back.
[21:25] <.BrooklynKnight> in the meantime I have a message from our sponsor psionics.net
[21:25] <.BrooklynKnight> Psionics.Net is holding an Online Gaming Fair in March 2005. Details are at
http://www.psionics.net/chat/events.html -- We are currently buidling the events list and need your help to
make this a successful con, by submitting panel & workshop ideas, games that you will run during the con
and for those that own RPG publishing companies ... vendors for our Exhibit Hall.
[21:26] * Joins: CPerkins
[21:26] <.BrooklynKnight> Got Questions?: email support@psionics.net
[21:26] <.BrooklynKnight> And he's back!
[21:26] * BrooklynKnight sets mode: +o CPerkins
[21:26] <.BrooklynKnight> Welcome Back
[21:27] * Quits: browwiw
[21:27] <@RodneyThompson> So, shall we continue with ze kwestions?
[21:27] <.BrooklynKnight> yes
[21:27] <@CPerkins> Yes please!
[21:27] <.BrooklynKnight> <Talon_Razor> Q: How many new classes will we see? Any major changes to the class system?
[21:28] <@RodneyThompson> The book uses the standard d20 Modern classes, but gives lots of new options for feats and
advanced classes. I'm sure Chris will have more on that...
[21:29] <@CPerkins> d20 Future has over a dozen new advanced classes, covering a broad range of science-fiction genres.
Some of them (specifically the ones in Chapter 2) are more universally applicable, regardless of what type of game you're
running. We also have very campaign-specific advanced classes. -done-
[21:29] <@RodneyThompson> -done-
[21:30] <@CPerkins> The Mecha Jockey advanced class, for instance, is only useful in games that use the mecha rules. -done-
[21:30] <.BrooklynKnight> I would like to note that Im running out of questions and that our fan crowd should
ask some more.. :-D
[21:31] <.BrooklynKnight> <otter> how long did you work on perfecting the whole system?
[21:31] <.BrooklynKnight> <otter> does starship combat have a 6 move (up,down,left,right.forward.backward) system?
[21:32] <@CPerkins> The book survived a three-month "development" phase during which some of the rules underwent in-house
testing. The entire creative provess took about 9 months (3 months writing, 3 months developing, and 3 months editing).
-done-
[21:32] <@RodneyThompson> In addition to what Chris said, I will say that my playtest group gave starship combat a
several-month playtest cycle.
[21:32] <@RodneyThompson> And to the second question, no, it's not three dimensional. It's grid-based.
[21:32] <@RodneyThompson> -done-
[21:32] <@CPerkins> Starship combat is played out in two dimensions (for practical reasons, mostly). -done-
[21:33] * Quits: otter ( (User has been mind-ripped)
[21:33] * Quits: Bynw (User has been mind-ripped)
[21:33] <.BrooklynKnight> Any quick and dirty advice if someone wanted to "try" a 3rd dimension?
[21:34] <@RodneyThompson> Whew...possibly add another grid or two or three that represent the same space on another
plane...moving between planes is 1 square per plane.
[21:34] <@RodneyThompson> By plane I mean a 2-D grid, not D&D term plane.
[21:34] <@CPerkins> I'm not sure how much it really adds to the game. Three-dimensional combat is more realistic but
considerably less fun to play on a flat surface. On the other hand, we say it's possible for multiple ships to occupy the
same square on the grid, so presumably they can be on top of each other. -done-
[21:35] * Joins: otter
[21:35] <@Garen> People should also keep in mind that in space, a two-axis grid is only necessary when you have more than
two ships in combat.
[21:35] <@RodneyThompson> Though that system will require a lot of bookkeeping and bog things down. The best way to
visualize the starship combat is that all combat can be represented on a 2-D plane with the assumption that there are
loops and spins and altitude changes during maneuvers.
[21:35] <@RodneyThompson> -done-
[21:35] <.BrooklynKnight> <Talon_Razor> Q: Is there any-other supplements on the table besides the ones already mentioned?
Is there plans to support Future as major line or spin-off?
[21:36] <@RodneyThompson> Again, not speaking for Wizards here, but I know many other 3rd party companies are supporting
Future. The list includes The Game Mechanics (who I'm writing for), as well as companies like Ronin Arts and EN
Publishing to name a few. -done-
[21:36] <.BrooklynKnight> RPGObjects too
[21:37] <@CPerkins> Speaking for Wizards ... We are beginning work on a new supplement tied to d20 Future. As with all of
our RPG lines, the viability of a d20 Future "sub-line" depends on the success of earlier books in the line. -done-
[21:38] <@CPerkins> Fortunately, the d20 Future book is enjoying tremendous success. -done-
[21:38] <@RodneyThompson> Indeed. We rock. -done-
[21:39] <@CPerkins> I guess sci-fi ain't dead, after all. -done-
[21:39] * Quits: magnum123
[21:40] <.BrooklynKnight> (this is the last question i have que'd folks, so c'mon send me more.)
[21:40] <.BrooklynKnight> <kingpaul> do you know if the some/all the campaign advanced classes will make the MSRD? it took
a bit, but the d20M AdC's eventually were added
[21:41] <@CPerkins> Good question. I wish I knew the answer for certain. We've turned over the d20 Future files to the
brand team, and they'
[21:41] <@CPerkins> ll decide what ends up in the SRD.
[21:41] <@Garen> The Future SRD has been available for some time.
[21:41] <@CPerkins> I'm not sure, frankly.
[21:42] <@RodneyThompson> I believe Andy Smith has said that if you have requests for the SRD then he is happy to hear and
consider them.
[21:42] <@RodneyThompson> But you'd have to contact him about that, and honestly that's just what I've heard. -done-
[21:42] <@CPerkins> Andy is the guy on the brand team who compiles the SRD material for his team. Great guy. -done-
[21:42] <.BrooklynKnight> Andy Smiths email at WOTC is Andy.Smith@wotc.com (i think)
[21:43] <.BrooklynKnight> <DarthXavien> Will there be a web enhancement with more equipment?
[21:43] * Quits: @Garen (User has been mind-ripped)
[21:43] <@RodneyThompson> Good question. Chris?
[21:44] <@CPerkins> No plans to do that, DarthXavien. If we design some cool new equipment, it'll probably end up in a
published supplement. -done-
[21:44] <.BrooklynKnight> Any more questions folks?
[21:44] <@CPerkins> Anything you'd like to see. Comments as well as questions are cool.
[21:44] <@RodneyThompson> As the guy who wrote the gear chapter, there's a lot I wanted to do with it that I just didn't
have space for.
[21:45] <.BrooklynKnight> <Talon_Razor> q: What current projects are you guys working on currently?
[21:45] * Joins: Garen
[21:45] * Garen sets mode: +o Garen
[21:46] <@RodneyThompson> Right now I'm working on the aforementioned future book for The Game Mechanics. Beyond that, I am
working on the Blue Rose Companion for Green Ronin, and one other book for GR. And, if Chris loves me very much, there'll
be something from me for Wizards coming up soon.
[21:46] <@RodneyThompson> But I don't know how much love he has to spare. -done-
[21:46] <@CPerkins> I'm the Design Manager for all RPG and miniatures projects at Wizards, so I'm working on just about
everything these days (D&D miniatures sets, d20 Modern/d20 Future books, Star Wars minis, D&D core books, Eberron books,
FR books, you name it). -done-
[21:47] <@RodneyThompson> The one thing Chris doesn't do: sleep.
[21:47] <@CPerkins> Robots don't need sleep. -done-
[21:47] <@RodneyThompson> -done being a smartmouth-
[21:47] <.BrooklynKnight> <kingpaul> if Rodney can, could he talk about his book for The Game Mechanics? (since its future
based)
[21:47] <@RodneyThompson> Actually, I can't. I asked special permission to be able to mention it tonight, and we're not
ready to announce any specifics.
[21:48] <.BrooklynKnight> Alright.
[21:48] <@CPerkins> I'
[21:48] <@RodneyThompson> I can tell you that I'm really trying hard to make it valuable to all Future players, and will
include some stuff that I saw was necessary after the development cycle was complete on d20 Future. -done-
[21:48] <@CPerkins> I'm always interested in hearing about what folks want to see, because I can make the designers add
stuff to their book outlines.
[21:48] <.BrooklynKnight> Eberron Future *cough*
[21:49] <.BrooklynKnight> j/k
[21:49] <.BrooklynKnight> <Talon_Razor> Q: Can you guys talk about any other projects and plans for d20 Modern.
[21:49] <@RodneyThompson> Yes indeed. This is a good chance to let him (and, by extension, us) know what needs to go in
future books.
[21:49] <@RodneyThompson> Aaaaaaand back to Chris.
[21:50] <@CPerkins> We've announced some of our upcoming products, including the aforementioned d20 Apocalypse. I have a
manuscript for another 96-page d20 Modern supplement sitting on my desk, awaiting review. I'm in the process of
contracting two more books. Basically, we have four d20 Modern book products planned in a given year. -done-
[21:50] <.BrooklynKnight> d20 Past, d20 Apocalypse.
[21:51] * Joins: NinjaBear
[21:51] <.BrooklynKnight> I figure you cant tell us what the other two are, but how about this. Are they similar in theme
to the other books, tackling a type of time period/time theme, or are they addons for Modern/Future, etc...
[21:51] <@CPerkins> I can't share any specific titles beyond Apocalypse. However, I can give you some vague clues as to the
themes/topics of future books. -done-
[21:52] <.BrooklynKnight> Ok, can we have those clues? :-D
[21:53] <@CPerkins> The next two books after d20 Apocalypse focus on futuristic technology and maps, respectively. there, I
think that's vague enough. -done-
[21:53] <.BrooklynKnight> hehe
[21:53] <.BrooklynKnight> <kingpaul> on d20 Past, how far back in the past will it go?
[21:54] * Quits: @CPerkins(User has been mind-ripped)
[21:54] <@RodneyThompson> And you scared him off.
[21:54] <@RodneyThompson> Tsk, tsk.
[21:54] * Joins: CPerkins
[21:55] * BrooklynKnight sets mode: +o CPerkins
[21:55] <.BrooklynKnight> <kingpaul> on d20 Past, how far back in the past will it go?
[21:55] <@CPerkins> d20 Past goes back to the Renaissance, I believe. -done-
[21:55] <@RodneyThompson> I have a question from someone on the Wizards Message Boards who can't be here tonight...
[21:56] <@RodneyThompson> Don't know if Chris would mind fielding it?
[21:56] <@CPerkins> d20 Past begins more or less where D&D leaves off, technologically speaking. -done-
[21:56] <.BrooklynKnight> Though we usually dont take questions from board chatters (to encourage them attending the chat)
i'm fine making an exception if you both are.
[21:56] <@CPerkins> Sure, Rodney.
[21:56] <@CPerkins> JUst this once.
[21:57] <@RodneyThompson> Why are the Mecha rules different from the vehicle and starship rules? Basically, he wants to
know how he would overcome the different systems and make them work together.
[21:57] <@RodneyThompson> I understand, BK, but he's in Australia and can't be here at this time.
[21:57] <.BrooklynKnight> Sure, go ahead.
[21:59] <@CPerkins> We've run mecha-vs.-starship playtests without too much effort. (You can fit quite a few mecha in a
500-foot square!) A mecha basically enhances a character's stats, so a mecha-vehicle battle should work the same way as a
character-vehicle battle. -done-
[21:59] * Quits: otter (User has been mind-ripped)
[21:59] <.BrooklynKnight> Yet again, i'm down to the last question in the que, please send more folks. Comments are welcome
too.
[21:59] <.BrooklynKnight> <Talon_Razor> Q: I'm curious on where d20 Modern sat on the scale of major products for Wizards?
[22:00] * Quits: Zombus (User has been mind-ripped)
[22:00] * Joins: otter
[22:00] * Quits: otter
[22:01] <@CPerkins> The d20 Modern Roleplaying Game was one of our key releases in 2002. The line remains strong to this
day, even though it's secondary to D&D. -done-
[22:02] <.BrooklynKnight> <NinjaBear> Hopefully this hasnt been asked. Are there any plans to expand on the use of magic
and psionics in futuristic settings?
[22:03] <@RodneyThompson> Fortunately, the d20 Future book is still 100% compatible with d20 Modern, so porting spells and
psionics over is easy. As for future-specific stuff...well, I don't know. -done-
[22:04] <@CPerkins> We had intended to include a psionics chapter in d20 Future, but the book was running long and the D&D
psionics system was undergoing surgery (see Expanded Psionics Handbook). For those reasons, we cut the topic from the
outline. As for magic ... again, not enough space to do the topic justice, plus it seemed out of place with the rest of
the book's content. However, a d20 Future magic supplement might be interesting (can you say THUNDARR?). -done-
[22:04] <.BrooklynKnight> Thundarr, He-man/She-ra, Silverhawks, Voltron, etc etc. Hell, even Power Rangers would fit under
Future/Magic/Psi
[22:05] <.BrooklynKnight> <DarthXavien> it seems like they barely touched on shields in the starship defense sections. Why
did they choose not to include more advanced/powerful types of shields?
[22:05] <@RodneyThompson> As an aside, one of our goals when designing d20 Future was to focus solely on what some would
call core science fiction, so that led to such a decision. -done-
[22:05] <.BrooklynKnight> woops
[22:05] <@CPerkins> True enough! -done-
[22:05] <.BrooklynKnight> <DarthXavien> it seems like they barely touched on shields in the starship defense sections. Why
did they choose not to include more advanced/powerful types of shields?
[22:06] <@RodneyThompson> For one, starship combat can already take a while given the massive DR most starships have,
especially in capital ship combat.
[22:06] <@CPerkins> Shields are tricky. In playtests, they made starship combat less fun. That's the short answer. I can
explain further, if you like. -done-
[22:06] <.BrooklynKnight> Please, do so! :-D
[22:07] <@RodneyThompson> Indeed. Tell us more, Oracle. -done-
[22:07] <@CPerkins> Well, along the lines of what Rodney said, shields basically make the combats last longer without
changing the outcome significantly (particularly if two sides have similar shield configurations). -done-
[22:08] <@CPerkins> That said, I'd love to play some more with different sorts of shield mechanics. -done-
[22:08] <.BrooklynKnight> <kingpaul> do you have any intentions of mixing FX-related items (spellcasters, psionics,
fantastic monsters, etc) in Future, and the ensuing interactions (like magic and high tech).
[22:09] <@RodneyThompson> Well, you'll find that lots of the templates and mutations can apply to monsters as easily as
characters, giving you a lot more options there. Certainly, even cybernetics and other scientific engineering as well.
[22:09] <@RodneyThompson> -done-
[22:10] <@CPerkins> You can do that already (more or less) using the FX rules in d20 Modern ... just like you can plop
bugbears into a d20 Future campaign. (I call the big one Bitey.) -done-
[22:11] <.BrooklynKnight> <Talon_Razor> Q: Any chance on a war-specific supplement? With the huge market in WWII games,
shooters, etc, could there be a chance for something that limited, even as a small-supplement.
[22:11] <@CPerkins> I wish we'd had more space in d20 Future to include some wackier stuff, but hey, we had 224 pages and
not a page more. I guess that's why we do supplements! -done-
[22:11] * Quits: @Vigilance
[22:11] <.BrooklynKnight> and a comment too
[22:11] <.BrooklynKnight> <Talon_Razor> Q: What I would like to see is a steam-era future. Like hi-tech western or
steamtech-based supplements.
[22:12] <@CPerkins> The BIG question is whether we can do a war-themed book that breaks new ground. d20 Past covers some of
what you want. -done-
[22:13] <@CPerkins> ... such as WWI and WW
[22:13] <@CPerkins> II weapons.
[22:14] <@CPerkins> -done-
[22:14] <.BrooklynKnight> On that topic...I know its rare for WOTC to consider licensing other settings (especially after
the Diablo incident) but what are the chances of WOTC looking into getting something like a HALO license. With the
intense success of that game, it would make a natural choice for a d20modern/future product.
[22:15] <@RodneyThompson> Now that is a book I'd kill to work on. Just as an aside.
[22:15] <.BrooklynKnight> So would I
[22:16] <.BrooklynKnight> While Chris types a reply, Do you know how many hours of product research you'd have to do? :-D
[22:16] <@CPerkins> We've moved away from licenses for various reasons.
[22:17] <@RodneyThompson> In all seriousness, as someone who's worked a bit on licensed games (Star Wars and Stargate
SG-1), I can tell you that there are a lot of headaches associated with their production.
[22:17] <@CPerkins> One of the big ones is that video game releases are unreliable. We never know exactly when they're
coming out. -done-
[22:17] <@RodneyThompson> For example, we've got books on the Stargate line that are in limbo while MGM and Sony negotiate.
[22:17] <@RodneyThompson> -done-
[22:17] * Quits: Sarlax (User has been mind-ripped)
[22:18] <.BrooklynKnight> <NinjaBear> Are there plans for publishing a complete "from the ground up" rules set for starship
and space station construction?
[22:19] <@RodneyThompson> Most of that information is already in d20 Future, though certainly I'll give this one over to
Chris to answer as well.
[22:19] <@CPerkins> If there's a call for it, we can strive to include starship-building rules and space station
construction in a future supplement. As noted earlier, we didn't have the space to tackle these topics (and do them
justice) in d20 Future. -done-
[22:19] <.BrooklynKnight> <NinjaBear> Will we be seeing anymore information from older games such as alternity and star
frontiers republished in d20 future suppliments?
[22:20] <@RodneyThompson> Chris gave me full permission to filch material from those old games when writing my sections, so
I can tell you it was on our mind during the d20 Future book's development.
[22:20] <@RodneyThompson> -done-
[22:22] <.BrooklynKnight> Ok, aside from 2 really off topic questions we're done. So i'll ask those and then demoderate the
room for some unmoderated comments, and that will be the evening!
[22:22] <@RodneyThompson> Sounds like a plan to me.
[22:23] <.BrooklynKnight> One of the chatters wanted to know what some future plans for Starwars were.
[22:23] * @RodneyThompson feels the Implant begin to twitch to life.
[22:23] <@RodneyThompson> I know nothing!
[22:23] <@CPerkins> Absolutely. In fact, Darrin Drader picked up some more Star Frontiers material in his d20 Future web
enhancement (the sinister sathar, for instance). If you can think of something you'd like to see picked up, let us know.
-done-
[22:23] <.BrooklynKnight> it was directed at chris actually.
[22:24] * Quits: DarthXavien
[22:24] * Quits: @CPerkins (User has been mind-ripped)
[22:25] <@RodneyThompson> His client gives him problems.
[22:25] * Joins: CPerkins
[22:25] <.BrooklynKnight> I think its the connection at WOTC HQ
[22:25] * BrooklynKnight sets mode: +o CPerkins
[22:25] <.BrooklynKnight> wb
[22:25] <@CPerkins> GRR! Booted again.
[22:25] <.BrooklynKnight> heh
[22:25] <@RodneyThompson> The Illithids love him.
[22:26] <@CPerkins> To answer the last question, we have no plans to cross the streams with Star Wars and d20 Future. These
are two separate intellectual properties that belong to two different companies. -done-
[22:26] <.BrooklynKnight> thats not what he ment actually
[22:26] <@CPerkins> Oh.
[22:26] <.BrooklynKnight> As i mentioned above it was offtopic, meaning, he wanted to know the plans for starwars alone.
[22:27] <@CPerkins> My bad. The short answer is 'More miniatures and more Ultimate Missions books.' -done-
[22:27] <@CPerkins> Well, I should head out of here. I'm running a D&D game for the CEO and VPs tomorrow morning ...
[22:27] <@RodneyThompson> Yikes!
[22:28] <@RodneyThompson> No pressure.
[22:28] <.BrooklynKnight> I just got some private messages for more on topic stuff, to be more specific "Will there be a
campaign setting for d20 future, like there was for modern (UA), and what are the chances of Star*Drive being
re-published as a setting (with a please please please attached)
[22:28] <.BrooklynKnight> And, after that, the final off topic question. Whats up with the DMG 2
[22:29] <@RodneyThompson> I got nothin' on any of those, so...
[22:30] <@CPerkins> We have no plans to release a stand-alone campaign setting for d20 Future. We might examine some of the
campaign settings presented in Chapter 2 of d20 Future in greater detail, however (giving players in those settings more
"toys" to play with, for example). -done-
[22:32] <@CPerkins> As for DMG 2, you tell me. What have you heard? (Howz that for turnin' the tables, huh?)
[22:32] <@RodneyThompson> Argh
[22:32] <@RodneyThompson> You'd be a great politician with answers like that.
[22:32] <@CPerkins> I have a degree in Rhetoric, dso go figure.
[22:33] <.BrooklynKnight> Just that its a book on how to build new races...
[22:33] <.BrooklynKnight> those are the rumors
[22:33] <.BrooklynKnight> aside from the posting at amazon.com there is no info
[22:33] <.BrooklynKnight> In fact, why does amazon release the book info before wotc?
[22:33] <@Garen> http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=products/dndacc/863170000
[22:33] <@CPerkins> Amazon is usually more wrong than right when it comes to our releases. Not a slam ... just a point of
fact.
[22:34] <.BrooklynKnight> Not to mention late with releases
[22:34] * Joins: Jonny_Reload
[22:35] <.BrooklynKnight> and no to demod the place for freeform comments and questions before you both need to leave
* Retrieving #d20-modern modes...
[22:35] * BrooklynKnight sets mode: -m
[22:35] <kingpaul> i'd like to ditto the comment on a ground-up starship design rulest
[22:35] <@CPerkins> Noted, kingpaul!
[22:36] <kingpaul> i've been trying to run some regression analysis on the variables, and its not fun
[22:36] <.BrooklynKnight> I'd like to ditto a devoted CS for d20-modern
[22:36] <.BrooklynKnight> err
[22:36] <.BrooklynKnight> Future
[22:36] <@RodneyThompson> Well, if anyone has a favorite campaign setting, they should start making a plea for it now.
[22:37] <NinjaBear> Stardrive! I plea for Stardrive!
[22:37] <@CPerkins> Some of the variable are arbitrary. Starship weight, for instance, varies from ship to ship. -done-
[22:37] <Jonny_Reload> Star*Drive
[22:37] <Jonny_Reload> Beyond a shadow of a doubt
[22:37] <@CPerkins> What about species-specific technology and starships? T'sa starfighters. Aleerin pulse grenades. Any
interest?
[22:38] * Joins: astralpop
[22:38] <Jonny_Reload> What about it?
[22:38] <NinjaBear> Highly. anything that adds more flavor for each individual race and makes them seems more like a race
and less like humans in alien suits would be welcome
[22:38] <@RodneyThompson> Would you like to see stuff like that?
[22:38] <kingpaul> perhaps more on the Fraal? since they're in Menace Manual as well
[22:39] <.BrooklynKnight> Maybe at So-Cal, Winter Fantasy, Origins, and Indy WOTC can hold some kind of Polling to measure
intrest in a campaign setting for future, ala Stardrive?
[22:39] <Talon_Razor> I want a hi-tech western for Future!
[22:39] <.BrooklynKnight> speaking of which will there be a d20 future classic adventure for the RPGA?
[22:39] <Talon_Razor> Or even Steam-Tech
[22:39] * .BrooklynKnight thinks someone already did a 3rd party book just like that.
[22:39] <.BrooklynKnight> I cant seem to remember who though.
[22:40] <@RodneyThompson> Talon: We'll talk later. Firefly setting is on my to-do list.
[22:40] * Talon_Razor faints in joy
[22:40] <Jonny_Reload> Damn, gotta go!
[22:40] <@CPerkins> There's no reason you can't take d20 Past and d20 Future, put 'em in a room together, and come out with
a cool hi-tech Western game.
[22:40] * Quits: Jonny_Reload
[22:40] <kingpaul> hi-tech western...reminds me a bit of Broncosaurus Rex
[22:40] <Talon_Razor> You do Firefly and I will dance
[22:40] <@CPerkins> Can't wait for the Firefly movie...
[22:40] <@CPerkins> yummmm
[22:40] <Talon_Razor> Best thing TVs done.
[22:40] <@RodneyThompson> Me either. We should go see it when it comes out, Chris...I'll be living in Seattle by then.
[22:41] <Talon_Razor> Hey Chris, can you eleborate a bit on the whole Star Wars thing?
[22:41] <@CPerkins> What's the "Star Wars thing"?
[22:41] <@CPerkins> Look forward to it, Rodney.
[22:41] <Talon_Razor> Well, the lack of books. Any plans at all?
[22:41] <NinjaBear> I believe he would like elaboration on the product's future, many of the RPG fans are affraind there
will be no further support for the RPG end of the game.
[22:42] <Talon_Razor> Is Wizard really shifting attention to the Minis and abandoning the RPG?
[22:43] <@Garen> ?
[22:43] <@RodneyThompson> You've put him on the hot seat.
[22:44] <@RodneyThompson> Or he's been kicked from the chat, either way.
[22:44] <.BrooklynKnight> i think he means, is WOTC shifting its attention to minis from RPGs in regards to the Starwars
line.
[22:44] <Talon_Razor> Heh, sorry Chris. Didn't mean to scare ya...
[22:44] <Talon_Razor>
[22:44] <@CPerkins> We don't have the resources to expand the RPG line while simultaneously launching a miniatures line. As
we predicted, the miniatures are doing extremely well for us. However, we'll be glad to get back to working on RPG books
when the miniatures line isn't such a resource-hog. -done-
[22:45] * Joins: Jonny_Reload
[22:45] <@RodneyThompson> Believe me, there are many authors chomping at the bit to write more Star Wars RPG books as well.
[22:45] <Jonny_Reload> ::Sigh:: I hate female friends... Anyways, I'm back for a bit more
[22:45] <Talon_Razor> Aham that's what we've been wanting to hear
[22:45] <Jonny_Reload> Oh crap, people on starwars now?! NOOOOOO!!!
[22:45] <@CPerkins> Yes, and hopefully there are lots of RPG fans waiting to put down money on those books.
[22:45] <.BrooklynKnight> Relax Jonny_Reload it was just one off topic question
[22:45] <NinjaBear> I know I am, I have bought ever Star Wars d20 book
[22:46] <Jonny_Reload> Thats how they all begin... As just one off topic question >:-(
[22:46] <.BrooklynKnight> Any more D20 Future questions for our guests before they have to go? I know Chris is already
streching his time here...
[22:46] <Jonny_Reload> Next thing you know were debating Jerry Lewis vs Elminster!
[22:46] <Talon_Razor> I have loads of dough to mail Wotc for books, no mistake about that!
[22:46] <.BrooklynKnight> Oh, i do have one good one
[22:47] <.BrooklynKnight> Why has wotc decided to switch to a 96 page soft cover format for Modern Books?
[22:47] <Jonny_Reload> D20 Future Question.... Would WOTC make one more venture into trying to aquire rights for a game
that would be brought in as a campaign setting ::Coughcoughhalocoughcough::
[22:47] <.BrooklynKnight> Why start with Past?
[22:47] <@RodneyThompson> Johnny Reload: Chris already answered that question....
[22:47] <@RodneyThompson> Let me find it and repost.
[22:47] <Jonny_Reload> Doh
[22:48] <Jonny_Reload> Sorry about being really late to all this :-/
[22:48] <@RodneyThompson> <CPerkins> We've moved away from licenses for various reasons.
[22:48] <@RodneyThompson> No problem.
[22:48] <NinjaBear> Sence wizards now has licence for a GIJoe CCG any chance of a Gi-joe d20 miodern/future game?
[22:48] <@CPerkins> We can release more books and cover more topics in a given year with smaller books. Our other option,
given our current resources, was to do two big hardcovers per year, but that's a long time to wait between books.
[22:49] <@RodneyThompson> Given everyone's fervor, it seems like you'd rather have 4 books a year, even if they are smaller.
[22:49] <Jonny_Reload> Definately agree on smaller books are better.
[22:49] <.BrooklynKnight> I see
[22:49] <Talon_Razor> Smaller books, more
[22:49] <@CPerkins> We've certainly TALKED about the possibility of doing a G.I. Joe supplement. (Ranged attacks always
miss!
[22:49] <.BrooklynKnight> It just seems to ruin a great product cover
[22:49] <@CPerkins> However, it's never pushed past the "talk" stage.
[22:49] <@RodneyThompson> Heh
[22:49] <Talon_Razor> GI Joe....incredible
[22:49] <.BrooklynKnight> CPerkins: Wait, wouldnt that be an A-Team supplement?
[22:50] <@CPerkins> Yeah, but we don't own Mr. T.
[22:50] <.BrooklynKnight> I pitty the foo!
[22:51] * Quits: @Garen(User has been mind-ripped)
[22:51] <.BrooklynKnight> Another cool idea that will never happen D20 Modern: San Andreas
[22:51] * .BrooklynKnight grins
[22:51] <Talon_Razor> Eh.....
[22:51] <Jonny_Reload> Actually to elaborate on that, I've been praying for a D20 Modern: Crime book
[22:51] <@RodneyThompson> Well, it's about time for me to go as well. It's getting late for us east coasters...
[22:51] <Jonny_Reload> Not just D20: GTA
[22:51] <.BrooklynKnight> There is one out Jonny_Reload
[22:51] <.BrooklynKnight> by a 3rd party company
[22:51] <@CPerkins> Yes, I need to get out of here, too. Chris needs food, badly.
[22:51] <.BrooklynKnight> its mafia based, kinda
[22:51] <@RodneyThompson> Thanks for coming everyone, it was good to talk to you all.
[22:51] <.BrooklynKnight> but ist d20stl, not specifically d20 modern.
[22:51] <Talon_Razor> Great jobs guys
[22:52] <.BrooklynKnight> Thanks again Chris, Rod.
[22:52] <@RodneyThompson> Chris, don't hesitate to give me a call if you need to talk about anything.
[22:52] <.BrooklynKnight> I'll be in touch for future chats!
[22:52] <Jonny_Reload> Ahhh, oh well. Everyone is heading out
[22:52] * Joins: Garen
[22:52] * Garen sets mode: +o Garen
[22:52] <@RodneyThompson> Everyone else, I'll see you around. I am usually in the Game Mechanics chat on Tuesday nights, so
drop by and see me there.
[22:52] <.BrooklynKnight> And remember everyone, this chatroom is here 24/7 for chatting on a regular basis!
[22:52] <@CPerkins> Thanks, Rodney!!
[22:52] <@CPerkins> Talk to you soon about that next book thingy.
[22:52] * Quits: Jonny_Reload
[22:52] <@Garen> Take care, Rodney.
[22:52] <Talon_Razor> Thanks Rodney
[22:52] <@RodneyThompson> And thanks to everyone for your support of d20 Future, it's certainly a lot more fun to do this
job with all your support.
[22:52] <@RodneyThompson> Sounds good, Chris. I'm eagerly waiting.
[22:53] <@RodneyThompson> Take care everyone, and I hope you all roll 20's!
[22:53] <@CPerkins> Adios, amigos! Keep watching the skies!!!
[22:53] * Quits: @RodneyThompson (Quit: Rodney "Moridin" Thompson - Author, and
SWRPGNetwork Webmaster (http://www.swrpgnetwork.com))
[22:53] * Quits: Talon_Razor
[22:53] <@CPerkins> Email me about the Sharn chat, BrooklynKnight.
[22:53] <.BrooklynKnight> ok
[22:53] <.BrooklynKnight> gnight!
[22:54] * Quits: @CPerkins (Quit: Quit)
[21:07] <.BrooklynKnight> Welcome to #d20-modern everyone. Tonight we have special guests Christopher Perkins
and Rodney Thompson with us, authors of WOTC's D20 Future rules supplement for D20 Modern.
[21:07] <@CPerkins> Unfortunately, JD Wiker (the third author of d20 Future) cannot join us this evening. He sends his
regrets.
[21:08] <@RodneyThompson> Yes, he regrets that you're stuck with us!
[21:08] <@Garen> <insert malicious cackle>
[21:08] <.BrooklynKnight> The focus of this chat is for D20 Future, please send all your questions via private
message to me, BrooklynKnight, and they will be added to a que to be posted in the chatroom. I'll post the
next questions after either of our guests let me know they are done answering the first with -done-. You
may start sending your questions, now.
[21:10] <.BrooklynKnight> <otter> how is the battle system for spaceships set up in d20 future?
[21:10] <@CPerkins> We wrote D20 FUTURE just over a year ago, so forgive us if we need a few seconds to think about our
answers.
[21:10] <@RodneyThompson> Chris? I believe you did a bunch on starships...
[21:11] <@CPerkins> Spaceship combat is treated very similarly to character combat in d20 Modern. Ships have move actions,
attack actions, and free actions. The ships themselves behave more like creatures than vehicles. It'
[21:12] <@CPerkins> The vehicle rules weren't ideal for big starship battles, which is why the ships behave like constructs
(in a fashion).
[21:13] <@CPerkins> Big starship battles aren't the place for heroes to really strut their stuff, but they can be fun to
play out nonetheless. /ga
[21:13] <.BrooklynKnight> <kingpaul> Will there be further supplements just for Future?
[21:14] * Quits: gordoss_vaa
[21:14] <@CPerkins> D20 FUTURE has done extremely well, so yes, in all likelihood you'll see something new for the game.
[21:15] <@CPerkins> I'd be interested in hearing what supplements most appeal to you.
[21:15] <@RodneyThompson> Well, not speaking for anyone else, I can say that I am working on a future-based supplement for
The Game Mechanics at this point.
[21:15] <@Vigilance> d20 Apocalypse, which has been announced is for d20 Future is it not?
[21:15] <@RodneyThompson> Though I can say no more than that regarding that particular project.
[21:16] <@RodneyThompson> Oh, and -done- for me.
[21:16] * Quits: Ardent
[21:16] <@CPerkins> d20 Apocalypse is designed for use with both the d20 Modern RPG and d20 Future. It certainly has some
obvious ties to the latter (more mutations, for example). /ga
[21:17] <.BrooklynKnight> If anyone likes, feel free to send me your opinions on supplements that appeal to you
for future and I'll forward the comments to Chris' mail box. Or visit the D20 Future Board at the Official
Boards.
[21:17] <.BrooklynKnight> <Talon_Razor> Q: How will starship creation be handled?
[21:17] <@RodneyThompson> And another for Mr. Perkins!
[21:17] <@RodneyThompson> Perhaps I should go get a book to read.
[21:18] <@CPerkins> In d20 Future, we present a whole bunch of different starship types/subtypes that can be infinitely
modified. However, we didn't have the space to include rules for creating new starship subtypes. Maybe that's something
that can be addressed in a future supplement.
[21:19] <@CPerkins> We tried to present most of the baseline starships you'd need in the d20 Future book, however. /ga
[21:20] <@RodneyThompson> Also, if you're looking for some more templates for the ships (to give you new ships based on the
existing types) you can check out Dungeon #113 for five new templates not in the d20 Future book.
[21:20] <@RodneyThompson> -done-
[21:20] <@CPerkins> It's a great article. -done-
[21:21] <.BrooklynKnight> <kingpaul> piggy-backing off of the space-combat, how would they rule attacks on people? for
example, say a swarm of soldiers in powered armor were trying board?
[21:22] <@RodneyThompson> In that case, most soldiers would be too small to be hit effectively by standard laser weapons.
For boarding forcefully, though, you could defend with personal-scale point defense weapons and run it as character
combat.
[21:22] <@RodneyThompson> And that should read "most soldiers would be too small to be hit effectively by standard starship
weapons"
[21:23] <@CPerkins> What Rodney said. Starship weapon systems don't do extremely well against such small targets in space,
although point defense weapons have a chance of taking out soldiers in spacesuits. Once the soldiers reach the ship's
hull, it's no longer a starship battle. Time to deploy the starship troopers at that point (it turns into a
character-vs.-character fight). -done-
[21:23] <@RodneyThompson> -done-
[21:23] * Quits: @CPerkins (User has been mind-ripped)
[21:24] <.BrooklynKnight> err, we'll wait for Chris to get back, heh his connection seems to have faltered
[21:24] <@RodneyThompson> Ruh-roh, he'll be back.
[21:25] <.BrooklynKnight> in the meantime I have a message from our sponsor psionics.net
[21:25] <.BrooklynKnight> Psionics.Net is holding an Online Gaming Fair in March 2005. Details are at
http://www.psionics.net/chat/events.html -- We are currently buidling the events list and need your help to
make this a successful con, by submitting panel & workshop ideas, games that you will run during the con
and for those that own RPG publishing companies ... vendors for our Exhibit Hall.
[21:26] * Joins: CPerkins
[21:26] <.BrooklynKnight> Got Questions?: email support@psionics.net
[21:26] <.BrooklynKnight> And he's back!
[21:26] * BrooklynKnight sets mode: +o CPerkins
[21:26] <.BrooklynKnight> Welcome Back
[21:27] * Quits: browwiw
[21:27] <@RodneyThompson> So, shall we continue with ze kwestions?
[21:27] <.BrooklynKnight> yes
[21:27] <@CPerkins> Yes please!
[21:27] <.BrooklynKnight> <Talon_Razor> Q: How many new classes will we see? Any major changes to the class system?
[21:28] <@RodneyThompson> The book uses the standard d20 Modern classes, but gives lots of new options for feats and
advanced classes. I'm sure Chris will have more on that...
[21:29] <@CPerkins> d20 Future has over a dozen new advanced classes, covering a broad range of science-fiction genres.
Some of them (specifically the ones in Chapter 2) are more universally applicable, regardless of what type of game you're
running. We also have very campaign-specific advanced classes. -done-
[21:29] <@RodneyThompson> -done-
[21:30] <@CPerkins> The Mecha Jockey advanced class, for instance, is only useful in games that use the mecha rules. -done-
[21:30] <.BrooklynKnight> I would like to note that Im running out of questions and that our fan crowd should
ask some more.. :-D
[21:31] <.BrooklynKnight> <otter> how long did you work on perfecting the whole system?
[21:31] <.BrooklynKnight> <otter> does starship combat have a 6 move (up,down,left,right.forward.backward) system?
[21:32] <@CPerkins> The book survived a three-month "development" phase during which some of the rules underwent in-house
testing. The entire creative provess took about 9 months (3 months writing, 3 months developing, and 3 months editing).
-done-
[21:32] <@RodneyThompson> In addition to what Chris said, I will say that my playtest group gave starship combat a
several-month playtest cycle.
[21:32] <@RodneyThompson> And to the second question, no, it's not three dimensional. It's grid-based.
[21:32] <@RodneyThompson> -done-
[21:32] <@CPerkins> Starship combat is played out in two dimensions (for practical reasons, mostly). -done-
[21:33] * Quits: otter ( (User has been mind-ripped)
[21:33] * Quits: Bynw (User has been mind-ripped)
[21:33] <.BrooklynKnight> Any quick and dirty advice if someone wanted to "try" a 3rd dimension?
[21:34] <@RodneyThompson> Whew...possibly add another grid or two or three that represent the same space on another
plane...moving between planes is 1 square per plane.
[21:34] <@RodneyThompson> By plane I mean a 2-D grid, not D&D term plane.
[21:34] <@CPerkins> I'm not sure how much it really adds to the game. Three-dimensional combat is more realistic but
considerably less fun to play on a flat surface. On the other hand, we say it's possible for multiple ships to occupy the
same square on the grid, so presumably they can be on top of each other. -done-
[21:35] * Joins: otter
[21:35] <@Garen> People should also keep in mind that in space, a two-axis grid is only necessary when you have more than
two ships in combat.
[21:35] <@RodneyThompson> Though that system will require a lot of bookkeeping and bog things down. The best way to
visualize the starship combat is that all combat can be represented on a 2-D plane with the assumption that there are
loops and spins and altitude changes during maneuvers.
[21:35] <@RodneyThompson> -done-
[21:35] <.BrooklynKnight> <Talon_Razor> Q: Is there any-other supplements on the table besides the ones already mentioned?
Is there plans to support Future as major line or spin-off?
[21:36] <@RodneyThompson> Again, not speaking for Wizards here, but I know many other 3rd party companies are supporting
Future. The list includes The Game Mechanics (who I'm writing for), as well as companies like Ronin Arts and EN
Publishing to name a few. -done-
[21:36] <.BrooklynKnight> RPGObjects too
[21:37] <@CPerkins> Speaking for Wizards ... We are beginning work on a new supplement tied to d20 Future. As with all of
our RPG lines, the viability of a d20 Future "sub-line" depends on the success of earlier books in the line. -done-
[21:38] <@CPerkins> Fortunately, the d20 Future book is enjoying tremendous success. -done-
[21:38] <@RodneyThompson> Indeed. We rock. -done-
[21:39] <@CPerkins> I guess sci-fi ain't dead, after all. -done-
[21:39] * Quits: magnum123
[21:40] <.BrooklynKnight> (this is the last question i have que'd folks, so c'mon send me more.)
[21:40] <.BrooklynKnight> <kingpaul> do you know if the some/all the campaign advanced classes will make the MSRD? it took
a bit, but the d20M AdC's eventually were added
[21:41] <@CPerkins> Good question. I wish I knew the answer for certain. We've turned over the d20 Future files to the
brand team, and they'
[21:41] <@CPerkins> ll decide what ends up in the SRD.
[21:41] <@Garen> The Future SRD has been available for some time.
[21:41] <@CPerkins> I'm not sure, frankly.
[21:42] <@RodneyThompson> I believe Andy Smith has said that if you have requests for the SRD then he is happy to hear and
consider them.
[21:42] <@RodneyThompson> But you'd have to contact him about that, and honestly that's just what I've heard. -done-
[21:42] <@CPerkins> Andy is the guy on the brand team who compiles the SRD material for his team. Great guy. -done-
[21:42] <.BrooklynKnight> Andy Smiths email at WOTC is Andy.Smith@wotc.com (i think)
[21:43] <.BrooklynKnight> <DarthXavien> Will there be a web enhancement with more equipment?
[21:43] * Quits: @Garen (User has been mind-ripped)
[21:43] <@RodneyThompson> Good question. Chris?
[21:44] <@CPerkins> No plans to do that, DarthXavien. If we design some cool new equipment, it'll probably end up in a
published supplement. -done-
[21:44] <.BrooklynKnight> Any more questions folks?
[21:44] <@CPerkins> Anything you'd like to see. Comments as well as questions are cool.
[21:44] <@RodneyThompson> As the guy who wrote the gear chapter, there's a lot I wanted to do with it that I just didn't
have space for.
[21:45] <.BrooklynKnight> <Talon_Razor> q: What current projects are you guys working on currently?
[21:45] * Joins: Garen
[21:45] * Garen sets mode: +o Garen
[21:46] <@RodneyThompson> Right now I'm working on the aforementioned future book for The Game Mechanics. Beyond that, I am
working on the Blue Rose Companion for Green Ronin, and one other book for GR. And, if Chris loves me very much, there'll
be something from me for Wizards coming up soon.
[21:46] <@RodneyThompson> But I don't know how much love he has to spare.
-done-[21:46] <@CPerkins> I'm the Design Manager for all RPG and miniatures projects at Wizards, so I'm working on just about
everything these days (D&D miniatures sets, d20 Modern/d20 Future books, Star Wars minis, D&D core books, Eberron books,
FR books, you name it). -done-
[21:47] <@RodneyThompson> The one thing Chris doesn't do: sleep.
[21:47] <@CPerkins> Robots don't need sleep. -done-
[21:47] <@RodneyThompson> -done being a smartmouth-
[21:47] <.BrooklynKnight> <kingpaul> if Rodney can, could he talk about his book for The Game Mechanics? (since its future
based)
[21:47] <@RodneyThompson> Actually, I can't. I asked special permission to be able to mention it tonight, and we're not
ready to announce any specifics.
[21:48] <.BrooklynKnight> Alright.
[21:48] <@CPerkins> I'
[21:48] <@RodneyThompson> I can tell you that I'm really trying hard to make it valuable to all Future players, and will
include some stuff that I saw was necessary after the development cycle was complete on d20 Future. -done-
[21:48] <@CPerkins> I'm always interested in hearing about what folks want to see, because I can make the designers add
stuff to their book outlines.
[21:48] <.BrooklynKnight> Eberron Future *cough*
[21:49] <.BrooklynKnight> j/k
[21:49] <.BrooklynKnight> <Talon_Razor> Q: Can you guys talk about any other projects and plans for d20 Modern.
[21:49] <@RodneyThompson> Yes indeed. This is a good chance to let him (and, by extension, us) know what needs to go in
future books.
[21:49] <@RodneyThompson> Aaaaaaand back to Chris.
[21:50] <@CPerkins> We've announced some of our upcoming products, including the aforementioned d20 Apocalypse. I have a
manuscript for another 96-page d20 Modern supplement sitting on my desk, awaiting review. I'm in the process of
contracting two more books. Basically, we have four d20 Modern book products planned in a given year. -done-
[21:50] <.BrooklynKnight> d20 Past, d20 Apocalypse.
[21:51] * Joins: NinjaBear
[21:51] <.BrooklynKnight> I figure you cant tell us what the other two are, but how about this. Are they similar in theme
to the other books, tackling a type of time period/time theme, or are they addons for Modern/Future, etc...
[21:51] <@CPerkins> I can't share any specific titles beyond Apocalypse. However, I can give you some vague clues as to the
themes/topics of future books. -done-
[21:52] <.BrooklynKnight> Ok, can we have those clues? :-D
[21:53] <@CPerkins> The next two books after d20 Apocalypse focus on futuristic technology and maps, respectively. there, I
think that's vague enough. -done-
[21:53] <.BrooklynKnight> hehe
[21:53] <.BrooklynKnight> <kingpaul> on d20 Past, how far back in the past will it go?
[21:54] * Quits: @CPerkins(User has been mind-ripped)
[21:54] <@RodneyThompson> And you scared him off.
[21:54] <@RodneyThompson> Tsk, tsk.
[21:54] * Joins: CPerkins
[21:55] * BrooklynKnight sets mode: +o CPerkins
[21:55] <.BrooklynKnight> <kingpaul> on d20 Past, how far back in the past will it go?
[21:55] <@CPerkins> d20 Past goes back to the Renaissance, I believe. -done-
[21:55] <@RodneyThompson> I have a question from someone on the Wizards Message Boards who can't be here tonight...
[21:56] <@RodneyThompson> Don't know if Chris would mind fielding it?
[21:56] <@CPerkins> d20 Past begins more or less where D&D leaves off, technologically speaking. -done-
[21:56] <.BrooklynKnight> Though we usually dont take questions from board chatters (to encourage them attending the chat)
i'm fine making an exception if you both are.
[21:56] <@CPerkins> Sure, Rodney.
[21:56] <@CPerkins> JUst this once.
[21:57] <@RodneyThompson> Why are the Mecha rules different from the vehicle and starship rules? Basically, he wants to
know how he would overcome the different systems and make them work together.
[21:57] <@RodneyThompson> I understand, BK, but he's in Australia and can't be here at this time.
[21:57] <.BrooklynKnight> Sure, go ahead.
[21:59] <@CPerkins> We've run mecha-vs.-starship playtests without too much effort. (You can fit quite a few mecha in a
500-foot square!) A mecha basically enhances a character's stats, so a mecha-vehicle battle should work the same way as a
character-vehicle battle. -done-
[21:59] * Quits: otter (User has been mind-ripped)
[21:59] <.BrooklynKnight> Yet again, i'm down to the last question in the que, please send more folks. Comments are welcome
too.
[21:59] <.BrooklynKnight> <Talon_Razor> Q: I'm curious on where d20 Modern sat on the scale of major products for Wizards?
[22:00] * Quits: Zombus (User has been mind-ripped)
[22:00] * Joins: otter
[22:00] * Quits: otter
[22:01] <@CPerkins> The d20 Modern Roleplaying Game was one of our key releases in 2002. The line remains strong to this
day, even though it's secondary to D&D. -done-
[22:02] <.BrooklynKnight> <NinjaBear> Hopefully this hasnt been asked. Are there any plans to expand on the use of magic
and psionics in futuristic settings?
[22:03] <@RodneyThompson> Fortunately, the d20 Future book is still 100% compatible with d20 Modern, so porting spells and
psionics over is easy. As for future-specific stuff...well, I don't know. -done-
[22:04] <@CPerkins> We had intended to include a psionics chapter in d20 Future, but the book was running long and the D&D
psionics system was undergoing surgery (see Expanded Psionics Handbook). For those reasons, we cut the topic from the
outline. As for magic ... again, not enough space to do the topic justice, plus it seemed out of place with the rest of
the book's content. However, a d20 Future magic supplement might be interesting (can you say THUNDARR?). -done-
[22:04] <.BrooklynKnight> Thundarr, He-man/She-ra, Silverhawks, Voltron, etc etc. Hell, even Power Rangers would fit under
Future/Magic/Psi
[22:05] <.BrooklynKnight> <DarthXavien> it seems like they barely touched on shields in the starship defense sections. Why
did they choose not to include more advanced/powerful types of shields?
[22:05] <@RodneyThompson> As an aside, one of our goals when designing d20 Future was to focus solely on what some would
call core science fiction, so that led to such a decision. -done-
[22:05] <.BrooklynKnight> woops
[22:05] <@CPerkins> True enough! -done-
[22:05] <.BrooklynKnight> <DarthXavien> it seems like they barely touched on shields in the starship defense sections. Why
did they choose not to include more advanced/powerful types of shields?
[22:06] <@RodneyThompson> For one, starship combat can already take a while given the massive DR most starships have,
especially in capital ship combat.
[22:06] <@CPerkins> Shields are tricky. In playtests, they made starship combat less fun. That's the short answer. I can
explain further, if you like. -done-
[22:06] <.BrooklynKnight> Please, do so! :-D
[22:07] <@RodneyThompson> Indeed. Tell us more, Oracle. -done-
[22:07] <@CPerkins> Well, along the lines of what Rodney said, shields basically make the combats last longer without
changing the outcome significantly (particularly if two sides have similar shield configurations). -done-
[22:08] <@CPerkins> That said, I'd love to play some more with different sorts of shield mechanics. -done-
[22:08] <.BrooklynKnight> <kingpaul> do you have any intentions of mixing FX-related items (spellcasters, psionics,
fantastic monsters, etc) in Future, and the ensuing interactions (like magic and high tech).
[22:09] <@RodneyThompson> Well, you'll find that lots of the templates and mutations can apply to monsters as easily as
characters, giving you a lot more options there. Certainly, even cybernetics and other scientific engineering as well.
[22:09] <@RodneyThompson> -done-
[22:10] <@CPerkins> You can do that already (more or less) using the FX rules in d20 Modern ... just like you can plop
bugbears into a d20 Future campaign. (I call the big one Bitey.) -done-
[22:11] <.BrooklynKnight> <Talon_Razor> Q: Any chance on a war-specific supplement? With the huge market in WWII games,
shooters, etc, could there be a chance for something that limited, even as a small-supplement.
[22:11] <@CPerkins> I wish we'd had more space in d20 Future to include some wackier stuff, but hey, we had 224 pages and
not a page more.
I guess that's why we do supplements! -done-[22:11] * Quits: @Vigilance
[22:11] <.BrooklynKnight> and a comment too
[22:11] <.BrooklynKnight> <Talon_Razor> Q: What I would like to see is a steam-era future. Like hi-tech western or
steamtech-based supplements.
[22:12] <@CPerkins> The BIG question is whether we can do a war-themed book that breaks new ground. d20 Past covers some of
what you want. -done-
[22:13] <@CPerkins> ... such as WWI and WW
[22:13] <@CPerkins> II weapons.
[22:14] <@CPerkins> -done-
[22:14] <.BrooklynKnight> On that topic...I know its rare for WOTC to consider licensing other settings (especially after
the Diablo incident) but what are the chances of WOTC looking into getting something like a HALO license. With the
intense success of that game, it would make a natural choice for a d20modern/future product.
[22:15] <@RodneyThompson> Now that is a book I'd kill to work on. Just as an aside.
[22:15] <.BrooklynKnight> So would I
[22:16] <.BrooklynKnight> While Chris types a reply, Do you know how many hours of product research you'd have to do? :-D
[22:16] <@CPerkins> We've moved away from licenses for various reasons.
[22:17] <@RodneyThompson> In all seriousness, as someone who's worked a bit on licensed games (Star Wars and Stargate
SG-1), I can tell you that there are a lot of headaches associated with their production.
[22:17] <@CPerkins> One of the big ones is that video game releases are unreliable. We never know exactly when they're
coming out. -done-
[22:17] <@RodneyThompson> For example, we've got books on the Stargate line that are in limbo while MGM and Sony negotiate.
[22:17] <@RodneyThompson> -done-
[22:17] * Quits: Sarlax (User has been mind-ripped)
[22:18] <.BrooklynKnight> <NinjaBear> Are there plans for publishing a complete "from the ground up" rules set for starship
and space station construction?
[22:19] <@RodneyThompson> Most of that information is already in d20 Future, though certainly I'll give this one over to
Chris to answer as well.
[22:19] <@CPerkins> If there's a call for it, we can strive to include starship-building rules and space station
construction in a future supplement. As noted earlier, we didn't have the space to tackle these topics (and do them
justice) in d20 Future. -done-
[22:19] <.BrooklynKnight> <NinjaBear> Will we be seeing anymore information from older games such as alternity and star
frontiers republished in d20 future suppliments?
[22:20] <@RodneyThompson> Chris gave me full permission to filch material from those old games when writing my sections, so
I can tell you it was on our mind during the d20 Future book's development.
[22:20] <@RodneyThompson> -done-
[22:22] <.BrooklynKnight> Ok, aside from 2 really off topic questions we're done. So i'll ask those and then demoderate the
room for some unmoderated comments, and that will be the evening!
[22:22] <@RodneyThompson> Sounds like a plan to me.
[22:23] <.BrooklynKnight> One of the chatters wanted to know what some future plans for Starwars were.
[22:23] * @RodneyThompson feels the Implant begin to twitch to life.
[22:23] <@RodneyThompson> I know nothing!
[22:23] <@CPerkins> Absolutely. In fact, Darrin Drader picked up some more Star Frontiers material in his d20 Future web
enhancement (the sinister sathar, for instance). If you can think of something you'd like to see picked up, let us know.
-done-
[22:23] <.BrooklynKnight> it was directed at chris actually.
[22:24] * Quits: DarthXavien
[22:24] * Quits: @CPerkins (User has been mind-ripped)
[22:25] <@RodneyThompson> His client gives him problems.
[22:25] * Joins: CPerkins
[22:25] <.BrooklynKnight> I think its the connection at WOTC HQ
[22:25] * BrooklynKnight sets mode: +o CPerkins
[22:25] <.BrooklynKnight> wb
[22:25] <@CPerkins> GRR! Booted again.
[22:25] <.BrooklynKnight> heh
[22:25] <@RodneyThompson> The Illithids love him.
[22:26] <@CPerkins> To answer the last question, we have no plans to cross the streams with Star Wars and d20 Future. These
are two separate intellectual properties that belong to two different companies. -done-
[22:26] <.BrooklynKnight> thats not what he ment actually
[22:26] <@CPerkins> Oh.
[22:26] <.BrooklynKnight> As i mentioned above it was offtopic, meaning, he wanted to know the plans for starwars alone.
[22:27] <@CPerkins> My bad. The short answer is 'More miniatures and more Ultimate Missions books.' -done-
[22:27] <@CPerkins> Well, I should head out of here. I'm running a D&D game for the CEO and VPs tomorrow morning ...
[22:27] <@RodneyThompson> Yikes!
[22:28] <@RodneyThompson> No pressure.
[22:28] <.BrooklynKnight> I just got some private messages for more on topic stuff, to be more specific "Will there be a
campaign setting for d20 future, like there was for modern (UA), and what are the chances of Star*Drive being
re-published as a setting (with a please please please attached)
[22:28] <.BrooklynKnight> And, after that, the final off topic question. Whats up with the DMG 2
[22:29] <@RodneyThompson> I got nothin' on any of those, so...
[22:30] <@CPerkins> We have no plans to release a stand-alone campaign setting for d20 Future. We might examine some of the
campaign settings presented in Chapter 2 of d20 Future in greater detail, however (giving players in those settings more
"toys" to play with, for example). -done-
[22:32] <@CPerkins> As for DMG 2, you tell me. What have you heard? (Howz that for turnin' the tables, huh?)
[22:32] <@RodneyThompson> Argh
[22:32] <@RodneyThompson> You'd be a great politician with answers like that.
[22:32] <@CPerkins> I have a degree in Rhetoric, dso go figure.
[22:33] <.BrooklynKnight> Just that its a book on how to build new races...
[22:33] <.BrooklynKnight> those are the rumors
[22:33] <.BrooklynKnight> aside from the posting at amazon.com there is no info
[22:33] <.BrooklynKnight> In fact, why does amazon release the book info before wotc?
[22:33] <@Garen> http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=products/dndacc/863170000
[22:33] <@CPerkins> Amazon is usually more wrong than right when it comes to our releases. Not a slam ... just a point of
fact.
[22:34] <.BrooklynKnight> Not to mention late with releases
[22:34] * Joins: Jonny_Reload
[22:35] <.BrooklynKnight> and no to demod the place for freeform comments and questions before you both need to leave
* Retrieving #d20-modern modes...
[22:35] * BrooklynKnight sets mode: -m
[22:35] <kingpaul> i'd like to ditto the comment on a ground-up starship design rulest
[22:35] <@CPerkins> Noted, kingpaul!
[22:36] <kingpaul> i've been trying to run some regression analysis on the variables, and its not fun
[22:36] <.BrooklynKnight> I'd like to ditto a devoted CS for d20-modern
[22:36] <.BrooklynKnight> err
[22:36] <.BrooklynKnight> Future
[22:36] <@RodneyThompson> Well, if anyone has a favorite campaign setting, they should start making a plea for it now.
[22:37] <NinjaBear> Stardrive! I plea for Stardrive!
[22:37] <@CPerkins> Some of the variable are arbitrary. Starship weight, for instance, varies from ship to ship. -done-
[22:37] <Jonny_Reload> Star*Drive
[22:37] <Jonny_Reload> Beyond a shadow of a doubt
[22:37] <@CPerkins> What about species-specific technology and starships? T'sa starfighters. Aleerin pulse grenades. Any
interest?
[22:38] * Joins: astralpop
[22:38] <Jonny_Reload> What about it?
[22:38] <NinjaBear> Highly. anything that adds more flavor for each individual race and makes them seems more like a race
and less like humans in alien suits would be welcome
[22:38] <@RodneyThompson> Would you like to see stuff like that?
[22:38] <kingpaul> perhaps more on the Fraal? since they're in Menace Manual as well
[22:39] <.BrooklynKnight> Maybe at So-Cal, Winter Fantasy, Origins, and Indy WOTC can hold some kind of Polling to measure
intrest in a campaign setting for future, ala Stardrive?
[22:39] <Talon_Razor> I want a hi-tech western for Future!
[22:39] <.BrooklynKnight> speaking of which will there be a d20 future classic adventure for the RPGA?
[22:39] <Talon_Razor> Or even Steam-Tech
[22:39] * .BrooklynKnight thinks someone already did a 3rd party book just like that.
[22:39] <.BrooklynKnight> I cant seem to remember who though.
[22:40] <@RodneyThompson> Talon: We'll talk later. Firefly setting is on my to-do list.
[22:40] * Talon_Razor faints in joy
[22:40] <Jonny_Reload> Damn, gotta go!
[22:40] <@CPerkins> There's no reason you can't take d20 Past and d20 Future, put 'em in a room together, and come out with
a cool hi-tech Western game.
[22:40] * Quits: Jonny_Reload
[22:40] <kingpaul> hi-tech western...reminds me a bit of Broncosaurus Rex
[22:40] <Talon_Razor> You do Firefly and I will dance
[22:40] <@CPerkins> Can't wait for the Firefly movie...
[22:40] <@CPerkins> yummmm
[22:40] <Talon_Razor> Best thing TVs done.
[22:40] <@RodneyThompson> Me either. We should go see it when it comes out, Chris...I'll be living in Seattle by then.
[22:41] <Talon_Razor> Hey Chris, can you eleborate a bit on the whole Star Wars thing?
[22:41] <@CPerkins> What's the "Star Wars thing"?
[22:41] <@CPerkins> Look forward to it, Rodney.
[22:41] <Talon_Razor> Well, the lack of books. Any plans at all?
[22:41] <NinjaBear> I believe he would like elaboration on the product's future, many of the RPG fans are affraind there
will be no further support for the RPG end of the game.
[22:42] <Talon_Razor> Is Wizard really shifting attention to the Minis and abandoning the RPG?
[22:43] <@Garen> ?
[22:43] <@RodneyThompson> You've put him on the hot seat.
[22:44] <@RodneyThompson> Or he's been kicked from the chat, either way.
[22:44] <.BrooklynKnight> i think he means, is WOTC shifting its attention to minis from RPGs in regards to the Starwars
line.
[22:44] <Talon_Razor> Heh, sorry Chris. Didn't mean to scare ya...
[22:44] <Talon_Razor>
[22:44] <@CPerkins> We don't have the resources to expand the RPG line while simultaneously launching a miniatures line. As
we predicted, the miniatures are doing extremely well for us. However, we'll be glad to get back to working on RPG books
when the miniatures line isn't such a resource-hog. -done-
[22:45] * Joins: Jonny_Reload
[22:45] <@RodneyThompson> Believe me, there are many authors chomping at the bit to write more Star Wars RPG books as well.
[22:45] <Jonny_Reload> ::Sigh:: I hate female friends... Anyways, I'm back for a bit more
[22:45] <Talon_Razor> Aham that's what we've been wanting to hear
[22:45] <Jonny_Reload> Oh crap, people on starwars now?! NOOOOOO!!!
[22:45] <@CPerkins> Yes, and hopefully there are lots of RPG fans waiting to put down money on those books.
[22:45] <.BrooklynKnight> Relax Jonny_Reload it was just one off topic question
[22:45] <NinjaBear> I know I am, I have bought ever Star Wars d20 book
[22:46] <Jonny_Reload> Thats how they all begin... As just one off topic question >:-(
[22:46] <.BrooklynKnight> Any more D20 Future questions for our guests before they have to go? I know Chris is already
streching his time here...
[22:46] <Jonny_Reload> Next thing you know were debating Jerry Lewis vs Elminster!
[22:46] <Talon_Razor> I have loads of dough to mail Wotc for books, no mistake about that!
[22:46] <.BrooklynKnight> Oh, i do have one good one
[22:47] <.BrooklynKnight> Why has wotc decided to switch to a 96 page soft cover format for Modern Books?
[22:47] <Jonny_Reload> D20 Future Question.... Would WOTC make one more venture into trying to aquire rights for a game
that would be brought in as a campaign setting ::Coughcoughhalocoughcough::
[22:47] <.BrooklynKnight> Why start with Past?
[22:47] <@RodneyThompson> Johnny Reload: Chris already answered that question....
[22:47] <@RodneyThompson> Let me find it and repost.
[22:47] <Jonny_Reload> Doh
[22:48] <Jonny_Reload> Sorry about being really late to all this :-/
[22:48] <@RodneyThompson> <CPerkins> We've moved away from licenses for various reasons.
[22:48] <@RodneyThompson> No problem.
[22:48] <NinjaBear> Sence wizards now has licence for a GIJoe CCG any chance of a Gi-joe d20 miodern/future game?
[22:48] <@CPerkins> We can release more books and cover more topics in a given year with smaller books. Our other option,
given our current resources, was to do two big hardcovers per year, but that's a long time to wait between books.
[22:49] <@RodneyThompson> Given everyone's fervor, it seems like you'd rather have 4 books a year, even if they are smaller.
[22:49] <Jonny_Reload> Definately agree on smaller books are better.
[22:49] <.BrooklynKnight> I see
[22:49] <Talon_Razor> Smaller books, more
[22:49] <@CPerkins> We've certainly TALKED about the possibility of doing a G.I. Joe supplement. (Ranged attacks always
miss!
[22:49] <.BrooklynKnight> It just seems to ruin a great product cover
[22:49] <@CPerkins> However, it's never pushed past the "talk" stage.
[22:49] <@RodneyThompson> Heh
[22:49] <Talon_Razor> GI Joe....incredible
[22:49] <.BrooklynKnight> CPerkins: Wait, wouldnt that be an A-Team supplement?
[22:50] <@CPerkins> Yeah, but we don't own Mr. T.
[22:50] <.BrooklynKnight> I pitty the foo!
[22:51] * Quits: @Garen(User has been mind-ripped)
[22:51] <.BrooklynKnight> Another cool idea that will never happen D20 Modern: San Andreas
[22:51] * .BrooklynKnight grins
[22:51] <Talon_Razor> Eh.....
[22:51] <Jonny_Reload> Actually to elaborate on that, I've been praying for a D20 Modern: Crime book
[22:51] <@RodneyThompson> Well, it's about time for me to go as well. It's getting late for us east coasters...
[22:51] <Jonny_Reload> Not just D20: GTA
[22:51] <.BrooklynKnight> There is one out Jonny_Reload
[22:51] <.BrooklynKnight> by a 3rd party company
[22:51] <@CPerkins> Yes, I need to get out of here, too. Chris needs food, badly.
[22:51] <.BrooklynKnight> its mafia based, kinda
[22:51] <@RodneyThompson> Thanks for coming everyone, it was good to talk to you all.
[22:51] <.BrooklynKnight> but ist d20stl, not specifically d20 modern.
[22:51] <Talon_Razor> Great jobs guys
[22:52] <.BrooklynKnight> Thanks again Chris, Rod.
[22:52] <@RodneyThompson> Chris, don't hesitate to give me a call if you need to talk about anything.
[22:52] <.BrooklynKnight> I'll be in touch for future chats!
[22:52] <Jonny_Reload> Ahhh, oh well. Everyone is heading out
[22:52] * Joins: Garen
[22:52] * Garen sets mode: +o Garen
[22:52] <@RodneyThompson> Everyone else, I'll see you around. I am usually in the Game Mechanics chat on Tuesday nights, so
drop by and see me there.
[22:52] <.BrooklynKnight> And remember everyone, this chatroom is here 24/7 for chatting on a regular basis!
[22:52] <@CPerkins> Thanks, Rodney!!
[22:52] <@CPerkins> Talk to you soon about that next book thingy.
[22:52] * Quits: Jonny_Reload
[22:52] <@Garen> Take care, Rodney.
[22:52] <Talon_Razor> Thanks Rodney
[22:52] <@RodneyThompson> And thanks to everyone for your support of d20 Future, it's certainly a lot more fun to do this
job with all your support.
[22:52] <@RodneyThompson> Sounds good, Chris. I'm eagerly waiting.
[22:53] <@RodneyThompson> Take care everyone, and I hope you all roll 20's!
[22:53] <@CPerkins> Adios, amigos! Keep watching the skies!!!
[22:53] * Quits: @RodneyThompson (Quit: Rodney "Moridin" Thompson - Author, and
SWRPGNetwork Webmaster (http://www.swrpgnetwork.com))
[22:53] * Quits: Talon_Razor
[22:53] <@CPerkins> Email me about the Sharn chat, BrooklynKnight.
[22:53] <.BrooklynKnight> ok
[22:53] <.BrooklynKnight> gnight!
[22:54] * Quits: @CPerkins (Quit: Quit)
