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Message: <blockquote data-quote="shadow" data-source="post: 1225829" data-attributes="member: 2182">I definately see a detailed pantheon adding flavor to a game.  I guess that to some to extent, my main problem is that 3e almost forces polytheism. Of course, polytheism has been in the D&D game from the earliest days.  However, 3e really makes it seem inextricably linked to the game.  The domain spells are designed around the idea of different domains for different gods (not to mention the inclusion of the Greyhawk deities in the PHB) The DMG even states that polytheism is the default assumption for D&D.  Of course, it's possible to design alternative religious systems for D&D.  My current campaign features a vague quasi-Catholic monotheistic church.  I've toyed with the idea of designing a campaign based on pantheism (eg-everything is part of God).  However, the core rules seem very biased toward the default polytheistic assumption, so it requires a little tinkering to integrate alternative religious systems.Of course, ultimately, one of the main problems with religion is that it is a very controversial issue.  Luckily, most gamers don't have a problem with the fantasy religions in games. (Although, I did play with a conservative Christian for a while who was reluctant to play a cleric.)  However, some people in the general public don't seem to understand.  I have heard of the 2e Forgotten Realms Faiths and Avatars being denounced for promoting the "worship" of pagan gods. (Afterall, if it's just a game manual, why does it include information on holy days, rituals, and priestly vestments?)  And then there is always the creepy player who gets a little to into their cleric character.  I happened to know one person in high school who always wanted to know the most minute detail about her character's patron deity.  When she started wanting to actually act out rituals, and expressing desire to really worship certain Forgotten Realms deities, we decided she probably was getting a little too into the game.  Needless to say, we don't game with her anymore.I guess it ultimately depends on the campaign, and who you're playing with.  For me, I'm going to continue to try to get away from the stale, cliched polytheistic pantheons.</blockquote>

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