OA using Core books

[Torillan]

Does anyone run a campaign or have an area of their world with Asian cultures, and NOT use the Oriental Adventures book? Would the Core Classes work in that situation? The reason I'm asking is that I am designing a world with a Eurasian feel to it (I know, but I really like this world!), and am planning on using the Book of the Righteous gods in it. Plus I'd like some ideas for implementing the BoTR gods into an Asian culture region. I have a few ideas already, but wanted to see if I could get other input.

 

[Dr_Rictus]

I think the biggest problem you'd encounter is that clerics really need some mucking with if you're to get the feel of eastern religion. Aside from that, I think you could do a fine job with the core books, though OA would pay for itself before long in the extra work it would probably save you.

 

[Neowolf]

I'm sure you could do it, but personally, to me part of the feel of an asian region (even one in a primarily european-feel world) is in the mechanics. In a truly eastern culture, clerics would be different, magic would (probably) be more oriented towards nature and spirits, and samurai would be more prevalent than fighters. This is all based on my opinions about asian fantasy, YMMV.

 

[ForceUser]

Depends on what kind of asian culture you're shooting for. IMC, I use OA shamans, wu jen, and monks to create an atmosphere that reflects southeast Asia. I don't use samurai or shugenja as a result. I could certainly see an Indian campaign full of clerics (brahmin), paladins (kshatriya), rangers (shikari), and wizards (swami), using only the core rules. Dr_Rictus nailed it, though; if you want to run a campaign with an asian flavor, the OA book will save you a lot of work. If you don't mind doing the extra research to create a memorable setting, then I say go for it! Just remember that the standard cleric, paladin, druid, and bard are heavily Euro-centric in feel and design, and adjust them appropriately. I suggest picking an asian culture you wish to base your campaign on (such as Chinese, Japanese, or Indain - I chose Vietnamese), and then spend some time researching that culture on the web. With non-standard campaigns based on real cultures, the internet is your best resource.

Good luck!