4 replies to this topic

[Galactygon]

Since the question of AD&D-ness has arisen, I'd like to ask you a question:

Will Valen have AD&D powers and weaknesses? This would mean the party is not allowed to adventure during the daylight hours with Valen. However, Valen would be able to polymorph herself into many different forms vampires may normally polymorph into (ie mist, wolf, bat, rat, etc.).

-Galactygon

[Thorium Dragon]

Will Valen have AD&D powers and weaknesses? This would mean the party is not allowed to adventure during the daylight hours with Valen. However, Valen would be able to polymorph herself into many different forms vampires may normally polymorph into (ie mist, wolf, bat, rat, etc.).

I would like to see Valen's abilities and weaknesses more akin to the pen-and-paper AD&D interpretation of vampires. I have not decided exactly how to implement this, but it must be done in a way that does not unbalance or frustrate the flow of the game.

At first blush, I do not think that giving Valen access to the polymorph forms (as an acquired ability upon leveling) would hurt playability, but not being able to travel during the day could be more of a nuisance than it is worth in terms of how it affects the fun of the game.

Ultimately, I'll have to see how it playtests out to determine the specifics.

In the meantime, I'll certainly entertain any suggestions?

[Deathsangel]

Why not keep her 'orginal' weakness in the light, which causes her to be enfeebled (strength and dexterity)

[Andyr]

How about not being able to enter a building unless being invited in by someone with the authority to do so? Or not being able to cross running water, except by being carried or over a bridge? I'd guess not, as it'd make the game pretty frustrating.

(Yes, these are in pnp by the way.)

[Thorium Dragon]

Why not keep her 'original' weakness in the light, which causes her to be enfeebled (strength and dexterity)

I most likely will keep these weaknesses, possibly with some minor variations (i.e. loss of special abilities).

How about not being able to enter a building unless being invited in by someone with the authority to do so? Or not being able to cross running water, except by being carried or over a bridge? I'd guess not, as it'd make the game pretty frustrating.

(Yes, these are in pnp by the way.)

Offhand, I don't see a way to implement a building-entrance restriction without hampering the game, but I will consider it during playthrough. I think this might be more interesting as a plot device than a general weakness that offsets her powers.

As far as crossing running water, it is referenced in the game by Bodhi before you set out to the isle of Brynlaw, so there is game precedent for it. However, I don't see a problem overlooking this from a technical standpoint as this restriction would keep Bodhi's vampires out of the Docks District completely.