Spelljammer Space Clowns Are A Thing In Spelljammer

WotC's Chris Perkins discusses Spelljammer's space clowns in a new video.

 

[Knightfall]

Clown Shoes have to be a magic item...

And cursed.

 

[Nightfly]

This is just another blatant attempt by WotC to capitalize on our nostalgia. They're shamelessly copying the classic Gary Gygax module "Lost City of the Creepy-Ass Space Clowns".

 

[Parmandur]

This is just another blatant attempt by WotC to capitalize on our nostalgia. They're shamelessly copying the classic Gary Gygax module "Lost City of the Creepy-Ass Space Clowns".

Well played.

 

[Knightfall]

An article on Polygon that talks about the space clowns and spiders as possible triggers for players.

D&D’s Spelljammer reboot will require some very specific content warnings

Killer clowns and giant spider ships might be a dealbreaker for some players

www.polygon.com

 

[Yaarel]

I DMed a SJ campaign in the 90s and I know the setting always had weird and goofy stuff but from what I remember it was just kind of there, you could use it or ignore it. This time around it seems like (at least with the previews) theyre showcasing this aspect more. But if clownspace is only 2-3 pages I can live with that. I'll reserve judgement until it comes out in a few weeks.

When I first saw this article on clowns in space, I immediately thought of the Juggler who lead the thieves guild on the Rock of Bral and was disappointed they didnt tie these into that and made it its own sphere.

My impression is, 5e Spelljammer is versatile. Several moods are possible.

• Archetypal realm of thoughts
• Dominions of angels and devils
• Space opera (Star Trek, Star Wars)
• Pirates of the Caribbean
• Cosmic horror (gith, farrealms)
• Goofy campy farce (2e Spelljammer)
• Journey between worlds

Maybe the scifi show Farscape is a blend of all of these?

For me the realm of thoughts is the angle that intrigues me. I will probably rewatch the movie, What Dreams May Come, to get a sense of a realm of thoughts.

In this more serious approach, moments of bawdy comedy and silliness can actually enhance the seriousness.

 

[Paul Farquhar]

That's kind of wild, but circuses died down a lot when I was young, I don't think my son even had an opportunity to go to one.

That's because they were rubbish. As soon as people invented entertainment that didn't suck they stopped going.

 

[Paul Farquhar]

So I guess I've got another reason Spelljammer just doesn't speak to me?

Why so serious?

 

[R_J_K75]

In this more serious approach, moments of bawdy comedy and silliness can actually enhance the seriousness.

Its safe to say that most game sessions include crazy antics by the PCs.

 

[Azuresun]

Remember, the best way to defeat a band of evil clowns is to go for the juggler.

 

[HaroldTheHobbit]

I won't get the new Spelljammer - partly because of astral stuff, partly because I'm happy with my home-brewed 'jammer.

And killer clowns from outer space...I mean, I love that Spelljammer traditionally is a bit gonzo, but this borders on a heavy immersion crusher. I definitely wouldn't use them.