Monster Books vs. Do-It-Yourself Monsters?

[The_Gneech]

I like monster books, but the strange thing is I rarely use the monsters from them. I tend to prefer a more low-magic sort of setting, and a corrollary of that is low monster population.

For all the tons of funky critters there are out there, I tend to use orcs, orcs, and more orcs. If I need higher level threats, I make 12th level orcs.

However, this has the interesting side-effect of making other monsters, when they show up, scarier and more interesting. "Oh crud, here comes an orc warband -- and HOLY CRAP WHAT'S THAT WITH THEM???"

-The Gneech

 

[Psion]

It's not so much that I don't like monster books as I think I am getting diminishing returns from each new book. After the TOH, CCII, and MMII, there just isn't a whole lot out there that doesn't say "retread" to me.

I find I am still liking "topical" creature books, like the ones put out by Green Ronin and FFG.

However, considering I am not finding piles of monsters all that useful, I am finding the Monsters Handbook, more of a "customization guide" than a "monsters book", to be of great value.

 

[Enceladus]

However, considering I am not finding piles of monsters all that useful, I am finding the Monsters Handbook, more of a "customization guide" than a "monsters book", to be of great value.

As soon as I saw this I thought Monsters Handbook. You speak with my voice as well.

 

[Knight Otu]

You know, I would *die* to get the Monster's Handbook into my hands, but my FLGS does not seem to carry it.

 

[rijeagle]

You know, I would *die* to get the Monster's Handbook into my hands, but my FLGS does not seem to carry it.

You can order one direct from Fantasy Flight here:

http://www.fantasyflightgames.com


Click on the 'order online' to the left.

 

[megamania]

Monster books give new ideas and sources. Creating new ones or converting from 2e can be a pill to get correct (CR and other stuff) so I do it very little. Give me a book of templates!!!!!

 

[Knight Otu]

You can order one direct from Fantasy Flight here:

I assumed that this was possible, but I don't order anything online, with Amazon.de being an exception, and even that only in emergencies.

Thanks, though!

I'm sure I'll get it one day.