Dark Sun: Let's Read The Original Boxed Set

[Jhaelen]

Now we start to really depart the norms of known fantasy camapaign settings. The Elves of Athas are 6 1/2 to 7 1/2 feet tall, larger than in any other standard 2E setting.

Umm. IME elves are at least as tall or taller than humans in most rpg systems. Standard D&D's is the exception here.

 

[Dausuul]

Umm. IME elves are at least as tall or taller than humans in most rpg systems. Standard D&D's is the exception here.

On par with humans is common, yes, but I'm not aware of many settings with elves averaging seven feet tall. Ever watch "The Princess Bride?" The actor playing Fezzik (Andre the Giant) was 7'4", which means elves near the high end of the listed range would stand eye to eye with him. These are some giant mutant elves here.

 

[Orius]

The real irony is that Tolkien's elves were also very tall, which is why short D&D elves always seem amusing.

 

[Jhaelen]

On par with humans is common, yes, but I'm not aware of many settings with elves averaging seven feet tall.

Well, at least in the systems I've been playing in the past, it's the case: I've been thinking of Shadowrun, Earthdawn, and Das Schwarze Auge (The Dark Eye) when writing this.

I think the Gloranthan elves (Runequest's default setting) might be smaller than humans, but I'm no longer sure - besides those elves are _really_ odd, being plants and all, compared to other settings...