Steampunk

[Carnifex]

After a long while of being the only one working on anything along these lines, it is interesting to see a couple of similar products appear as we are almost finished (Steam & Steel, and Sorcery & Steam, the one by FFG). Hopefully, this means that this is emerging as a sub-genre, and people interested in playing in such a setting will want to get all three books for the most options. Some healthy competition should be good for everyone.

I'll definitely be interested in seeing how other people have approached the subject.

 

[nopantsyet]

I always felt intrigued by, drawn to, and ultimately let down by my prior experiences with what I thought was steampunk. Arcanum just didn't draw me in. But then I read Perdido Street Station , and since then have been dying for a steampunk suppliment. Sounds like I'll have three or four to choose from even. GO OGL!!!

 

[rounser]

A suggestion: To reduce confusion, if you mean the type of fantasy most associated with D&D, with spells and swords, say "swords & sorcery fantasy". The word "fantasy" unqualified can mean too many things to too many people...

 

[frankthedm]

I think of steam punk as the last fantasy era i want to use the D&D ruleset in. After that mundane weapons have too much potencey to justify the slooow build up for a d20 casters power in comparison to the guns and explosives available. And the value of skills to weapons changes soo much that most classes; designed for combat become nigh worthless. When the expert class becomes more usefull that fighter or wizard combined, then find a new system.

 

[Hand of Evil]

I like it but not really by the name 'punk' as that creates images of tatoos, spike hair and other body art.

Steam tech is an option if it is done correctly, you have to explain it and then have to make sure the mechanics fit into the game. You just can't dump them into a setting and have things work, there has to be an history, a background and something the players can use.