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Message: <blockquote data-quote="evildmguy" data-source="post: 1104752" data-attributes="member: 6092">I will say this.  DM's familiar was the only non free combat manager that I considered.  With the cost of the other programs I got or already had, I was trying to cut back.  There were other reasons as well for why I decided not to get it.  So, I was impressed with what I saw during a demo but I decided I didn't want to pay for it.I went with Alessio's because he was gracious enough to work with some requests I had.  Putting those in really gave me what I was looking for in a combat manager.  The log he added alone was awesome because now I can cut and paste a battle into my Word document about the plot of the session!  That is so cool!  I am not so sure, though, that I agree with the rest of DMFTodd's list for what is needed at the table.  Or at least, I have my own list of things that I looked for when I started my own search for laptop software.  With the reference material.  I have found that having it at the table, in whatever format, slows the game down, no matter how well intentioned the player or GM.  It is better, imo, for the GM to make a decision and keep playing.  The ruling can be checked later, after the game, and then the GM can briefly talk about any changes due to what was found in the rules at the next session.  I am also not in complete agreement with that being it for the list.  Something to write, view and edit campaign notes is also important, imo.  Word does that for me just fine.  As for the rest, I agree that most of what I listed was "gravy" in that they help but aren't needed.  I for one love the weather program I have because it allows me to have consistent daily weather.  Before, at best, I might have had consistent seasonal weather but I wouldn't bet on it!  It could be argued a map maker, and I still suggest ProFantasy, is needed for a GM who is going to make their own world.  Yes, it can be done on hand, but this is about computer tools for a laptop and having it in CC2 gives so many more options than if it was hand drawn.  Again, YMMV.  This is what I found.  My laptop, and it isn't top of the line, can handle 3-4 Word documents open, 2-3 Excel sheets open, CC2, Milieu Weather, Explorer and the EBoN with no problem.  I can even handle Overseer3D for very small maps!  I mention all of this because having a laptop there allows for a lot of options.  I know I would hate to GM without my laptop now!  I could do it but I would hate to lose all of that functionality!  Same as with anything that you would miss once you have it.Good discussion and ideas!  I hope you find what you are looking for!  I would be curious to know what you used!Thanks!edg[Edit]  stupid typo!</blockquote>

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