Shopping for an introductory game

[Jan van Leyden]

Well, hold on a second - you're talking about people who play CRPGs, right? They generally have a handful of things they can do at start too, no.

Well, with some experience I mean people who had have some contact, but aren't CRPGers by any means. People who spent several nights with one or two of those games, not the ones who can't wait for the Next Big Game or Last Big Game 2.

However, if you still think that's too much - start them with 4e, and limit them to at-will powers. Or one at will, and one Encounter power. Allow them to add the additional 1st level powers at points during 1st level.

Come to think of it, I just want to buy a new game, not just modify one I already own.

 

[Umbran]

Come to think of it, I just want to buy a new game, not just modify one I already own.

Well, that's entirely fair. Heavens knows I like to experiment with new games.

 

[talarei07]

well if you are just looking for a new game system. my players really like the cortex system by mwp and find it very simple to understand

 

[nedjer]

It should feature:

- a single system for task resolution using one die-rolling mechanism only.

- possibility to shift resolution work from the players to the GM

- limited selection of features for character creation and expanding selection of features for character advancement

- (fantasy) mainstream background

- visually appealing/stunning material

What do you think, folks? I'm looking forward to your suggestions!

2D6 outcomes, shift work to players, expanding feature set, fantasy and visual. Complete match to Treasure, in html or PDF which is free here.

 

[Rechan]

General question.

Do you want to teach the players roleplaying, or teach them to use tabletop systems and juggling rules?

I.e. what is the desired goal, aside from making them gamers? What do you want to expose them to the most?
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[bagger245]

Another vote for Dragon Age.. Show it to the crpg guys and they will be familiar with the setting..

 

[Mark]

Try Prince Valiant if you can find a copy.

 

[Jasperak]

Disclaimer: I do NOT know the details on this. So it may or may not meet all your criteria.

It is my understanding that the Dragon Age RPG (based off the setting in the recent computer game of the same name) is a "simplified" starter-level type game. It either just came out or is about to come out soon. It's published by Geen Ronin (Green Ronin Publishing: Be Your Own Master - i think that's their website).

I second this. I purchased my set several days ago and it seems to have the balance you seek. The two previews they have on their site are worthless for getting an idea on some of the game's fundamental premises so I would recommend looking for authoritative reviews. I am looking forward to playing it this weekend.

 

[Aus_Snow]

It does sound like Dragon Age could be just the ticket.

Try these articles, would be my advice (if you're at all interested, natch):

Design Diary 1: The Dragon Age Begins
Dragon Age Design Diary 2: The Heart of the Game
Dragon Age Design Diary 3: Character Creation

I think the box set only came out this week(?) so reviews of it (as opposed to the PDF) might still be rather scarce.

 

[dm4hire]

I'll add my vote for Dragon Age also. Since it's new you only have levels 1-5 to worry about and the stunt system is probably the best feature it has. Highly recommend it.