zoroaster100
First Post
I thought about posting this to the software forum, but then I realized that the people that go to that forum aren't the people I wanted to tell this to at all, since they already are using software of one kind or another.
I just wanted to share my experience that using combat management software is really a great experience if you can have a laptop or PC at the gaming table. I think I have a pretty good memory, but with so many possible buff spells, magic item benefits and penalties, special monster abilities and qualities, etc. it is practically impossible for the average DM to avoid forgetting things during combat. Add to that the varying spell durations that can expire during combat and it gets really hairy.
I know there are several programs out there, and I've checked out several myself. Each person might find one that fits their needs. For me, DM's Familiar is the one that I find perfect for what I'm looking for, since I'm looking for something to assist me by reminding me of all those factors, durations, etc. but which won't actually replace my decisions as DM in a way where I lose track of what factors are being added by the program. I want automated help, but not an automated game, since I want to know at all times what calculations I'm being helped with so I can add tweaks of my own for special situations that no program can ever possibly anticipate.
The new DM's Familiar version that came out yesterday adds psionics (which allows using powers, keeping track of power points and durations of used powers, etc.) and the program has taken care of spells for some time. The program allows keeping track of buffs to ability scores which then automatically adjusts your attacks, damage, etc. to name only a few things. Probably the most important effect of the program is that it allows access to all of a creature's special abilities and qualities, spell-like and supernatural abilities, etc. during combat so that a DM can use even complex powerful creatures to full effectiveness. Any DM worth his or her salt can run a fight with goblins, ogres, etc. effectively without a computer (though a the right software makes it easier), but I can't imagine trying to run powerful dragons or fiends to full effectiness in combat without this program.
As a full fan and convert to this program, I hope others will check it out so that the guy that makes it will feel encouraged to continue providing updates and support at the incredible level he has provided for the past couple of years.
I just wanted to share my experience that using combat management software is really a great experience if you can have a laptop or PC at the gaming table. I think I have a pretty good memory, but with so many possible buff spells, magic item benefits and penalties, special monster abilities and qualities, etc. it is practically impossible for the average DM to avoid forgetting things during combat. Add to that the varying spell durations that can expire during combat and it gets really hairy.
I know there are several programs out there, and I've checked out several myself. Each person might find one that fits their needs. For me, DM's Familiar is the one that I find perfect for what I'm looking for, since I'm looking for something to assist me by reminding me of all those factors, durations, etc. but which won't actually replace my decisions as DM in a way where I lose track of what factors are being added by the program. I want automated help, but not an automated game, since I want to know at all times what calculations I'm being helped with so I can add tweaks of my own for special situations that no program can ever possibly anticipate.
The new DM's Familiar version that came out yesterday adds psionics (which allows using powers, keeping track of power points and durations of used powers, etc.) and the program has taken care of spells for some time. The program allows keeping track of buffs to ability scores which then automatically adjusts your attacks, damage, etc. to name only a few things. Probably the most important effect of the program is that it allows access to all of a creature's special abilities and qualities, spell-like and supernatural abilities, etc. during combat so that a DM can use even complex powerful creatures to full effectiveness. Any DM worth his or her salt can run a fight with goblins, ogres, etc. effectively without a computer (though a the right software makes it easier), but I can't imagine trying to run powerful dragons or fiends to full effectiness in combat without this program.
As a full fan and convert to this program, I hope others will check it out so that the guy that makes it will feel encouraged to continue providing updates and support at the incredible level he has provided for the past couple of years.
