Fantasy RPG without levels?

[CapnZapp]

Many people have mentioned games running it, but noone has mentioned the system itself:

Basic Role-Playing or BRP

It's got everything I need out of a system. Of course, I was practically raised on games using it, so... [emoji4]

 

[pemerton]

Many people have mentioned games running it, but noone has mentioned the system itself:

Basic Role-Playing or BRP

To be fair, I think BRP is a RQ derivative rather than vice-versa.

Other fantasy systems that lack levels and use BRP/RQ-ish mechanics - but with less complex combat mechanics - are Stormbringer and Elric. Pendragon is also mechanically similar, but I haven't played much of it and don't remember how complex its combat is. Of course it's best known for its personality mechanics.

 

[CapnZapp]

Runequest certainly came first, but BRP is the generic label while RQ is a specific campaign world. Thought "Basic Roleplaying" needed mentioning in a thread such as this

 

[ExploderWizard]

Runequest certainly came first, but BRP is the generic label while RQ is a specific campaign world. Thought "Basic Roleplaying" needed mentioning in a thread such as this

Actually the Design Mechanism version of Runequest published a couple years ago is generic with regard to setting. Its basically Runequest without Glorantha material baked in.

 

[Mantriel]

Thanks for the replies!

 

[CapnZapp]

Actually the Design Mechanism version of Runequest published a couple years ago is generic with regard to setting. Its basically Runequest without Glorantha material baked in.

I'm sure there is.

Still, placing RuneQuest under the BRP umbrella makes sense to me [emoji4]

 

[Zhaleskra]

I've had experience with GURPS 3e, and while I hear creation is more involved, I think HERO gets a better feel. A somewhat simpler non-level generic is Tri-Stat dX, the fan-named (and company adopted) name for the system for Big Eyes, Small Mouth (BESM).

Ars Magica has already been mentioned, and I'm extremely fond of World Tree, which is more specific in theme: d20 Ars Magica with anthropomorphics.

 

[nightwind1]

Wouldn't that be almost any RPG other than a D&D-based one?

 

[Dannyalcatraz]

Non-level based FRPGs are the majority, I do believe, but D&D isn't the only one. Palladium RPG and Mutants & Masterminds' fantasy iteration Warriors & Warlocks are notable members of the level based group.

 

[Nytmare]

Ars and Burning Wheel were the first to come to mind, but if memory serves, I think that Everway fits the bill too.