DM Genie versus DM's Familiar

[IronWolf]

I am considering trying wither DM Genie or DM's Familiar to make the crucnching numbers part of DM'ing a little easier so I can focus on flavor during the session itself. Both of these have caught my eye and have been mentioned in other threads recently. I already use a laptop to DM where I keep random name generators a copy of the SRD and my campaign notes in a Wiki. One of these looks like the missing tool I need.

I have both evaluation versions downloaded and played with them for just a little bit. I am looking for opinions here on which one *you* prefer. I am looking mainly for what they can do, I have no issue putting a little time in to get over a learning curve in order to use either one to their fullest.

So what do you think? Pros and Cons of each one? Which one would you go with and why?

EDIT: And as I don't have the search function, any links to threads that have previously discussed this would be appreciated too.

 

[DMFTodd]

Recent Discussion

The most recent discussion was here..

The best thing to do in my mind is to test out both programs and see which one makes sense for the way you want to game and the way you want to use a computer at the gaming table. The two programs have different philosophies on how they do things. You have to see which one meshes with how you want to play.

I don't really agree with the folks who say "DMF is easier to learn so it's better" or "DMG is hard to learn but if you learn it, it's better". I think the programs are trying to do the same thing - assist the DM - but go aout if very differently.

And don't forget Roleplaying Master and GMGen that is in PCGen. Those are other options for combat manangers.

 

[IronWolf]

The most recent discussion was here..

Thanks DMFTodd... I thought I had seen something recently, just couldn't find the thread. Obviously I didn't look quite hard enough. For some reason I thought it was in the laptop at the gaming table thread.

Thanks for the input. I will add Roleplaying Master and GMGen to the ones to take a look at while I try to decide what works best for me.