For the past few years, Alex White (who you may know as Plane Sailing on the forums) has been working on his science fiction roleplaying game, Starguild. It's described as "space opera noir" and heavily features intrigue and social conflict - as well as laser guns and spaceships, of course. Last week, Alex launched a Kickstarter to fund production of the - already written - game. He has kindly sent along some exclusive previews of the rulebook; take a look at these, and then be sure to head over to the Kickstarter itself and take an even longer look at that!
That cover art is by Claudio Pozas (who has worked for most every major RPG company around!) The previews below give a sense of the game, but some of the Kickstarter's goals are to get more colour art.
The game itself is reportedly a light d20 mechanic; it's not the d20 system - no classes, for a start - but I've heard mention that those who have played d20 games will find it very easy to play. One of its biggest features - as I alluded to above - is the system for social conflict. The Kickstarter itself says "...the game treats social conflict - the ability to alter someones emotions and thinking - just as importantly as the more traditional kinds of conflict of fist and gun. There are many ways that adventurers can achieve their objectives, including manipulating their friends and allies should the need arise." These social conflict mechanics are made up of abilities to Captivate, Convince, Dissemble, Peacemake, Seduce, Sow Distrust, Swindle and Taunt.
Three ability scores - Passion, Intellect, and Physique - and eight skills make up the core of a character, plus a background, talent, and homeworld.
The 240-page book also includes five adventures, each of which highlights a different aspect of the game. You can get the PDF for £10, or the hardcover for £35.
That cover art is by Claudio Pozas (who has worked for most every major RPG company around!) The previews below give a sense of the game, but some of the Kickstarter's goals are to get more colour art.
The game itself is reportedly a light d20 mechanic; it's not the d20 system - no classes, for a start - but I've heard mention that those who have played d20 games will find it very easy to play. One of its biggest features - as I alluded to above - is the system for social conflict. The Kickstarter itself says "...the game treats social conflict - the ability to alter someones emotions and thinking - just as importantly as the more traditional kinds of conflict of fist and gun. There are many ways that adventurers can achieve their objectives, including manipulating their friends and allies should the need arise." These social conflict mechanics are made up of abilities to Captivate, Convince, Dissemble, Peacemake, Seduce, Sow Distrust, Swindle and Taunt.
Three ability scores - Passion, Intellect, and Physique - and eight skills make up the core of a character, plus a background, talent, and homeworld.
The 240-page book also includes five adventures, each of which highlights a different aspect of the game. You can get the PDF for £10, or the hardcover for £35.
