ValhallaGH
Explorer
The bestiary doesn't include several standard monsters (goblins, ogres, horses, orcs, etc) because those were already included in the main book.bento said:I wouldn't get the full book if you have the pocket edition. The Bestiary goes into much greater detail on 3.5 conversions.
Also, the full book also has some example settings to help inspire and focus ideas. Not to mention, some of the custom mechanics for those settings are both good and interesting.
Caliphate Nights - A tasteful, intelligent and evocative take upon Arabia around 1000 A.D. that includes some truly innovative mechanics. Sure, they have a full book of their own out now but the setting in the book is a nice benefit for us poor folk.
Lux Aeternum - Single star system science fiction with a mix of Star Drive, Star Wars and Victorian Steampunk. Their full setting book will be out soon.
Mecha vs. Kaiju - Perfect for an Evangelion game, or if you just want stats for Godzilla when he shows up to humble your players. This full setting book is also nearing release.
Borrowed Time - Probably the weakest setting since it has very little setting information, but it has some really interesting mechanics for a character that can manipulate the fabric of time. It also works extremely well for very specialized types of casters. The setting book is in production but I have no idea when it's coming out.
So, while the full book isn't required, it's in no way a waste of funds.