State of The Tavern - Catchup is Almost Caught Up

I spent this morning catching up on emails from the month of January, It's literally mindboggling how a two-week loss of time can lead to a month or longer backlog, but there it is. Imagine if it was five weeks. Ouch!

Anyhow, if you were the recipient of an OSR Christmas gift I'm 95% sure your info was forwarded to the folks in charge of awarding your gift. I say 95% because sure as grass is green someone probably used one of my other emails (than the one designated) to respond and I haven't done that type of digging yet. Additionally, I suspect some just haven't checked to see if they were gifted. If you are owed a gift and didn't get an email from me today email me at tenkarsDOTtavern at that gmail thing with details of the gift in question and I'll look into it. Yes, I personally still have to do a post office trip. Catching up is certainly not complete, but we are closing in on it.

I expect that come February we'll be back to averaging two or more posts a day here on the blog side. Things slowed down in January. Is what it is but we should be back to more normal pacing going forward.

The Tavern Chat Podcast keeps getting stronger. More on that tomorrow when I have the full number for January. I really do appreciate the support.

Reminder - Tavern Chat Tonight - 9 PM Eastern - Be There or Be...

Today is Wednesday and that means tonight is our weekly Tavern Chat on the Tenkar's Tavern Discord Server.

It's like being at a convention and shooting the shit with fellow gamers but you do it with headphones instead. It's always a blast and I look forward to it every week.

Of course, the conversation on The Tavern's Discord Server is 24/7 with text. Just saying. 1,487 members can't be wrong. We, a few could be, but not all ;)

Here's the link for tonight's voice chat:

https://discord.gg/fReGmuD

OSR Christmas - Awarding the Gifts for Day 11

Here we go with awarding the gifts for Day Eleven of OSR Christmas. Let's see who gets what today :)

1) 1 Print Copy of Dragon Heresy (Gaming Ballistic) (US Only) - dogrodeo

2) 1 PDF Copy of The Midderlands from MonkeyBlood -  Nathan Christenson

3) 1 PDF Copy of The White Star Galaxy Edition (James Spahn / Barrel Rider Games) -  Steven Wells

4) 1 PDF Copy of Heart of Darkness (White Star Adventure/ Middle Kingdoms Adventure & Trading Co.) - GoblinTown

5) Undying Orb in Print from Silver Bullett (US Only) - Denis McCarthy

If your name is above, email me at tenkarsDOTtavern at that gmail thing. Put "OSR Christmas Gift" in the subject.  If you are receiving a physical gift I'll need a physical shipping address I can forward on (or use myself). If the gift is digital, I will need the email you use with DriveThruRPG. Day Twelve of OSR Christmas should go up tomorrow.

(All comments at The Tavern have to be moderated - approved by an admin - meaning me. The Tavern has become the target of spambots and others and this is the best, if most tedious, way to handle such. I approve comments as fast as I can. I appreciate your patience - Erik)

edit - still playing catch up. I'll spare y'all the latest drama :)

Guest Review - Role Gate (Play by Chat Platform)

I've failed as a player in Play by Post in the past. There just never seemed to be a platform that was a good fit and I think you need a strong GM to make it work well. I want to thank Valdus for directing me (and The Tavern's readers) to Role Gate. While it still has a few kinks to work out, I think the potential is damn near limitless.

Now, onward to our guest review - Tenkar

Here in New Orleans, I am a lonely gamer, living in a place where people live out their fantasies not on the tabletop but in the streets. In my 20+ years of searching for a satisfying online gaming environment, I came across a lot of hacks and snake oil merchants. Platforms like Fantasy Grounds sell you a product then string you along with an endless parade of modules and rules. I even went so far as starting my own play by post site which was quickly run completely amok.

Recent online resources have come into the picture. But both Roll20 and Discord, while great for most, tend to demand either a learning curve or sitting in a chatroom waiting for people to play what you want to play, let alone a willing game master.

But RoleGate looks different.

RoleGate.com is an RPG in-browser platform that offers a suite of rpg chat elements. Far more user-friendly than Discord or Roll20, RoleGate comes ready-made for some serious gaming. Running and syncing instantly from any platform (PC, phone or Pad) that has a browser, RoleGate allows players and GM's to chat, threading a dialogue with tabs for characters, game settings, and an index where the GM can divide their game into chapters, acts and scenes.

Yeah but let's face it, all online RPG aids, no matter play-by-post or virtual tabletop, come down to the dice roller right? RoleGate has a wealth of dice combination and options for easy macro codes to roll stats with a simple cut and paste. And more customizable dice are on the way.

So why not just log onto Discord? I did both. On Discord I set up my own room, invited a bunch a people and tried to set up bots for dice rollers, and quite frankly had trouble with the flow of dice macros and making a private room in the channel wasn't the easiest thing in the world. Go ahead call me an OSRIC-Idiot.

RoleGate had everything ready-made, it's all there without any restrictions even on my Basic account- which I upgraded to copper. RoleGate's fantasy economy works on tips given when someone writes or plays well, in the form of coins, the metal (from copper to platinum- sound familiar) corresponds with the tiers of subscription. These tiers correspond to a library of icons for use in chat. 

Schooled in 1980's loose-leaf character sheets or later on, the easy user interface of the classic Neverwinter Nights, I'm not big on the learning curve. RoleGate is an online RPG version of "plug in and play." The community is strong on Reddit and Discord, and if you're willing to GM you can run a game on just about anything. I am running a World of Dungeons campaign.

RoleGate.com is a great playing platform, a great base with many features coming in the future (members can use their coin to vote for suggested features). Whether you are a free basic member, copper or platinum, the platform offers the same gaming features. Think of these coins as just membership 'bling' and does not affect the gaming experience.

So for this lonely gamer, RoleGate.com may be my go-to virtual tabletop, when I'm not slaying paper-mache dragons in the streets of New Orleans.  - Valdus

The Tavern is always looking for reviews and guest posters from the community. 

Best Laid Plans F@ckig Gone Astray

We've heard some gurgling from the sewer line trap the past few days. We tried root killer and the gurgling went away. Then this morning there were a number of water bugs around the trap. Moved stuff and opened the trap door.

There was no gurgling anymore because the water level was an inch from the top, submerging the pipe that drains into the trap. Obviously, the pipe that drains the trap was blocked. (old house, old sewer line - roots get into the pipe like clockwork). The plumber was called, and he needed the trap drained to the level that the pipe emptying the drain was revealed. Bucket-line in effect.

The plumber is here now.

Its a shitty day.

Catch-up may be delayed.

All hail the god of feces.

Sigh.

OSR Christmas - Day 11 - Home Stretch

I feel like I'm apologizing a lot these days but I'd rather keep you all posted. Between recording interviews for the podcast, doctors, physical therapy, lawyers (nothing bad - no legal actions directed at me ;), family related errands and (emergency) uncle duties, I was lucky to keep one blog post and one podcast episode a day going as usual. Emails? Still mostly unread. Packages? Still unmailed. Catching up like planned? Fail. Tomorrow I have literally nothing on my calendar. No interviews, no errands, no docs or other shit.

Alarm is set for 8 AM. Going to get my ass in gear early and dig myself out of backlog. In the meantime on to OSR Christmas Day 11 :)

I do so love OSR Christmas.

As usual, we have some awesome gifts in the OSR Christmas mix. Print books can only be delivered in the US with this gift pool, digital can all be delivered worldwide.

1) 1 Print Copy of Dragon Heresy (Gaming Ballistic) (US Only)

2) 1 PDF Copy of The Midderlands from MonkeyBlood

3) 1 PDF Copy of The White Star Galaxy Edition (James Spahn / Barrel Rider Games)

4) 1 PDF Copy of Heart of Darkness (White Star Adventure/ Middle Kingdoms Adventure & Trading Co.)

5) Undying Orb in Print from Silver Bullett (US Only)

How do you enter for a chance to be gifted? Simply comment on this very post. On Monday, January 28th, 2019 sometime after 6pm Eastern (so comment before), we will randomly determine those to be gifted from the comments received. It really is that simple. Day 2 will have some SIGNED items in the mix...

Note - If you live outside the US and get picked for a Print gift, I will substitute a $5 OneBookShelf Gift Certificate and the print prize will go back in the pool.

Kickstarter - Zorro™: The Roleplaying Game (WEG d6 2e System)

I'm not sure which is drawing my attention more - the fact that Gallant Knight Games has a license to publish a Zorro RPG via Kickstarter or that West End Games has a second edition of its d6 system. Fun times. Fun times indeed.

Zorro, the classic hero of the American Southwest, comes to the tabletop in a full-color, 8.5 x 11 sized book.  

The book will detail the setting of Zorro's adventures in Alta California, as well as providing rules to emulate the swashbuckling, dramatic action of this masked hero of the people.  

Players will be able to work alongside Zorro as part of Zorro's Legion, or even take on the role of the legendary hero! 

The book is being created under license from Zorro Productions, Inc., and has access to over 70 years of Zorro history, artwork, media and research to power it! 

More than an RPG, this book will also contain detailed accounts of Zorro's adventures through media, from his original novel appearances, to blockbuster movies and TV series. While there is more media than a single book can contain, with our partners at ZPI, we've selected the highlights and essentials of Zorro's career, and turned those into scenarios, adventures and more! 

The book will be lavishly illustrated with art culled from the entire history of Zorro. 

Then there is this tidbit:

West End Games is an iconic company in the RPG industry creating classic roleplaying games that powered a wide range of universes and properties! Working with West End Games to utilize the D6 System to power such an iconic hero as Zorro only makes sense! 

To that end, in partnership with Nocturnal Media & West End Games, Gallant Knight Games has been empowered to bring a brand new edition of the classic D6 System to the tabletop! Fully licensed, and the next step in the D6 family, WEG D6 2e updates the D6 System to contemporary advances in game design.  

Throughout the Kickstarter, we'll be previewing the new mechanics (and you can find some previews on our website right now). We'll have more details about the new D6 2e System and its future throughout the campaign!

Yes, the update to the D6 System really has me excited:

Classic D6 System features like:

• Lots of D6s!
• Attribute + Skill forming a dice pool
• Rolls that are totaled against a Target Number (TN)
• The Wild Die

All still exist and play important roles (and rolls!) in WEG D6 2e. Updates and changes have been made to streamline the game, with some features such as:

• More Narrative Control
• Fail Forward mechanics
• Hero Points!
• Revisions to the Wild Die
• Streamlined Skill Lists

Our goal is to produce a ruleset that is intimately familiar, but fresh and exciting! WEG D6 2e has been in playtesting for 6 months, and has logged over 300 hours of play already! We're committed to doing this right. 

And of course, the icing on the cake for me is the first stretch goal:

At $20,000 we unlock an all-new Adventure to be written and included in the book. This will be a 5,000 word adventure, written by industry veteran James Michael Spahn.  

This will be added to the core book for all backers. 

I'm in. Let's see where I see the sweet spot:

Alright. 60 bucks gives you the book in print, the book in PDF and all unlocked PDF stretch goals. That's where I jumped in at.

Last Call - Lost Hall of Tyr (2nd Edition): Maps and Print Run (Kickstarter)

Douglas Cole / Gaming Ballistic is closing the Backerkit phase of the Lost Hall of Tyr (2nd Edition): Maps and Print Run Kickstarter tomorrow. If you are a backer, now is the time to finalize your survey and maybe purchase a custom made shield or two. If you aren't a backer - yet - it isn't too late to place an order via Backerkit - there is a link on the top of the Kickstarter page to do so or go directly to Backerkit here. If I only had the place to display it...

We're coming down to the end now.  

This Friday, on Jan 25, the Backerkit phase of the project will end. What does that mean? 

1) I will lock all orders currently placed, and start the process of charging cards. 

2) For those folks whose cards successfully go through, I will immediately send out the electronic copies of all existing files: Dragon Heresy, Dungeon Grappling, and Hall of Judgment PDFs 

3) I will get to work finalizing the last stages of the 2nd Edition of Lost Hall of Tyr, which mostly involves calculating experience point totals for encounters, a bit more DC conversion, and writing conversion guidelines and some flowcharts to help with Dragon Heresy stuff. 

Then I'll send out the pre-final PDF, and give y'all some time to look at it and comment on any typos and whatnot. When those are fixed, I'll update, send out the final PDF, upload that same new PDF to DriveThru for sale, and place the print order.  

At this time - though we're only about $500 shy of the $6,000 offset goal - it appears that the print copies will be done by short-run digital printing. It'll be a nice run, so no worries. 

There are only ten people who haven't yet filled out their survey, and maybe eight or nine of those have physical product coming, so I must have your information to get you your books. 

So if you're going to do add-ons or get one of those sweet shields, now is the time. If you're not getting anything else . . . now is still the time. 

Thanks! I look forward to finishing up this project for you and getting on to what is shaping up to be an amazingly busy 2019. 

Douglas

Reminder - Tavern Chat Tonight - 9 PM - The Rollercoaster Continues

This has been a beyond belief busy week. So busy that I forgot tonight was a Wednesday Night and we have Tavern Chat in less than two hours. Yes, late notification, I know. If its any consolation, I'm late all around this week.

Tavern Chat is held every Wednesday Night on the Tenkar's Tavern Discord server. Stop on by. You never know who may drop in for some voice chatting ;)

Here's your handy link: https://discord.gg/wMva2Jy

See you in less than two :)

The Tenkar's Tavern Discord Server has Added a "Nerd Nutrition" Channel - and its Hopping!

Late this morning, one of the Tenkar's Tavern Discord Server "Menches" (its what we call our moderators) messaged me and Pexx ("who does Number Two work for?!?") about the idea of adding a text channel on the server for "out of shape nerds."

Bingo! A new channel was formed. Nerd Nutrition.

Want to talk about nutrition with fellow gamers. Work out routines with fellow nerds? Looking for community support to keep you on the bike and away from the ice cream? This might be the place you've been waiting for.

I'm thrilled by the engagement its seen on its first day :)

I'm about six months into physical therapy for sciatica (both sides) and I could stand to lose a few - well, lots of few - pounds. I purchased a $200 stationary bike 2 weeks ago and just signed Rach and I up with Peloton Digital. Workouts, virtual bike rides, yoga, meditation - maybe you'll see a healthier me at the next convention.

You can use the following link to join the server and get in on the Healthy Chat ;)

https://discord.gg/wMva2Jy

OSR Christmas - Awarding the Gifts for Day 10

Here we go with awarding the gifts for Day Ten of OSR Christmas. Let's see who gets what today :)

1) 1 PDF Bundle of Far Away Lands from Dirk Stanley - M Po

2) 1 PDF Copy of The Midderlands from MonkeyBlood - Michael Gross

3) 1 Bundle of OSR Patches from Thad Moore - ships worldwide - Charles Seager

4) 1 PDF Copy of The Class Compendium (James Spahn / Barrel Rider Games) - Clint

5) 1 PDF Copy of Heart of Darkness (White Star Adventure/ Middle Kingdoms Adventure & Trading Co.) - Johnathon R

6) ZWEIHÄNDER Complete Digital Bundle (all 13 digital products) - Peter V. Dell'Orto

If your name is above, email me at tenkarsDOTtavern at that gmail thing. Put "OSR Christmas Gift" in the subject.  If you are receiving a physical gift I'll need a physical shipping address I can forward on (or use myself). If the gift is digital, I will need the email you use with DriveThruRPG. Day Eleven of OSR Christmas should go up tomorrow.

(All comments at The Tavern have to be moderated - approved by an admin - meaning me. The Tavern has become the target of spambots and others and this is the best, if most tedious, way to handle such. I approve comments as fast as I can. I appreciate your patience - Erik)

edit - I'm feeling good this week, which means I'm going through 2 weeks of catch up - I ask for your patience and understanding - Erik

Tenkar's Tavern Discord Server - Live Chat Schedule

I'm still playing catchup, as this post probably should have gone up last night. As I post this, the RPG Breakfast Club is LIVE.

Below was kindly prepared by Pexx.

Live Chats:

We currently have 5 weekly chats and Tenkar’s 1:1 interviews (Voice and Text) that everyone is welcome to attend.

[Sunday] RPG Breakfast Club 10:00amEST//9:00amCST//8:00amMT//7:00amPST: The hosts change weekly and it’s never the same conversation. Usually, 3-5 folks from the industry chatting about the hobby. #rpg-breakfast-club

[Monday] The Dungeon Show 10:00pmEST//9:00pmCST//8:00pmMT//7:00pmPST A Live audience (you) with static Host @Carl Heyl (Wild Games Prod) and a special guest being interviewed very much in the style of the Late or Tonight Show on T.V. #the-dungeon-show

[Tuesday] Frog Chat 9:00pmEST//8:00pmCST//7:00pmMT//6:00pmPST: Join your hosts @Badmike & @Zach Glazar (Frog God Games)  from Frog God Games #frog-chat

[Wednesday] Tavern Chat 9:00pmEST//8:00pmCST//7:00pmPST//6:00pmPST: Join your host @tenkar (tavern keeper)  and kick back and relax #tavern-chat

[Friday] RPG Coast to Coast 9:00pmEST//8:00pmCST//7:00pmMT//6:00pmPST  The hosts change weekly and it’s never the same conversation. Usually, 3-5 folks from the industry chatting about the hobby. #rpg-coast-to-coast

 Tenkars Fireside Chats Tenkar interviews someone in the industry on a very personal level. You get to know the person behind the product or service. #live-chat (note - these interviews are shared later on the Tavern Chat podcast)

Immediate schedule:

Breakfast Club Jan 20th The hosts are @Pexx (Tavern Custodian) @LaramieWall (Tavern Mensch) @Heruca (Battlegrounds Games) @Hack & Slash & @Douglas (Gaming Ballistic)

The Dungeon Show Jan 21st Special Guest @Douglas (Gaming Ballistic)

Tenkar’s Fire Side Chats  [Mon Jan 21st 1:00pmEST] @Elfstar

You can use the following link to join the Tenkar's Tavern Discord Server:

https://discord.gg/fhnCaEu

The Return of OSR Christmas - Day 10 - PDF and Worldwide

I love OSR Christmas. It really is the gift giving celebration that keeps on giving. I apologize for the deal in getting to Day 10. I had about 2 weeks of minor but numerous medical issues cropping up. Anti-biotics for the win. I am back :)

As usual, we have some awesome gifts in the OSR Christmas mix.

1) 1 PDF Bundle of Far Away Lands from Dirk Stanley

2) 1 PDF Copy of The Midderlands from MonkeyBlood

3) 1 Bundle of OSR Patches from Thad Moore - ships worldwide

4) 1 PDF Copy of The Class Compendium (James Spahn / Barrel Rider Games)

5) 1 PDF Copy of Heart of Darkness (White Star Adventure/ Middle Kingdoms Adventure & Trading Co.)

6) ZWEIHÄNDER Complete Digital Bundle (all 13 digital products)

How do you enter for a chance to be gifted? Simply comment on this very post. On Monday, January 21st, 2019 sometime after 6pm Eastern (so comment before), we will randomly determine those to be gifted from the comments received. It really is that simple. Check back often, because we'll have at least 2 more days of OSR Christmas running this month.

Note - If you live outside the US and get picked for a Print gift, I will substitute a $5 OneBookShelf Gift Certificate and the print prize will go back in the pool. N/A this round of gifting

Note 2 - Anything shipping from me (Tenkar) won't be shipping until at least January 22 - possibly not until the 24th. Boxed and ready to go though.

Note 3 - Again, I apologize for the 2-week hiccup. General catching up was today - I'll be doing email catch up tomorrow. Assumingmy niece gives uncle the time to do so...

(edit - all comments at The Tavern have to be moderated - approved by an admin - meaning me. The Tavern has become the target of spambots and others and this is the best, if most tedious, way to handle such. I approve comments as fast as I can. I appreciate your patience - Erik)

Below is a more or less complete list of the OSR Christmas Grab Bag:

Far Away Lands - PDF Bundles
OSR Patches - Multiple sets - some shipping worldwide
World War II: Operation WhiteBox adventure "The Argentine Connection" - PDF copies
Castle of the Mad Archmage and all the expansions (Level 3 East, Musicland, and Bitterbark's Circus - in Print)
Lord of Suttham Oldfeld bundle for The Midderlands shipped anywhere in the world
Daily PDF giveaway of the Midderlands
Print copy of For Coin & Blood, Eorathril, and Print copy of Fallen Justice anywhere in the world.
ZWEIHÄNDER Complete Digital Bundle (all 13 digital products)
3 PDF’s of the Sunken City Omnibus (DCC RPG)
ALL Frog God Games Swords & Wizardry releases in digital format (that they can account for) in a bundle for 1 person
Some Frog God Games Print products signed by Bill Webb (shipped by me)
Outdoor Encounter Cards and Dungeon Challenge Card - in Print (shipped by me)
4 Class Compendium PDFs, 4 White Star Galaxy Edition PDFs, 4 The Hero's Journey PDFs
Random Gaming Material from a Taverner's Gaming Collection
Random Shit from the Tenkar Game Collection - at least three Priority Mail boxes of stuff
6 copies of Dragon Heresy in Print
2 copies Undying Orb in Print
PDF copies of The Sentinel Chapel for DragonQuest / System Neutral
The Mystery at Port Greely”, an AS&SH adventure module, signed by the author, Jeffrey Talanian

Kickstarter - Dark Naga - Haunting of Hastur - Hardback - 5e and OSR

I've thoroughly enjoyed the individual releases in the Haunting of Hastur line of adventures from Dark Naga. Of course, the later ones were written for 5e and I would have had to convert them to run them. I almost backed the limited print run of the 5 adventures as a bundle in the OSR format but the stars didn't align, so I'm thrilled to see an OSR version as an option with the latest Haunting of Hastur - Hardback - 5e and OSR Kickstarter.

This is an omnibus collection of the five released adventures and it comes with Virtual Table Top (VTT) ready maps. Fog of War, here I come!

The Haunting of Hastur is a campaign designed to integrate with starting adventures like the 5e boxed set, or other introductory works and take the party through level twelve.  

The party members start out on a job to investigate missing people and are pulled into a confrontation with those who would bring Hastur back to the world. 

The campaign is a non-linear adventure that leaves a lot of room for roleplaying.  

The book will be about 240 pages, case bound hardback with a full cover interior on 70-pound paper. This tome includes the following adventures: DNH1a – Sidequest – River Crossing, DNH1 – The Lost Temple of Forgotten Evil, DNH2 – The Buried Zikurat, DNH3 – The City of Talos (Adventure, Gazetteer and Bestiary), DNH4 – Confronting Hastur, and DNH5 – Carcosa. All of which have been previously run as individual projects on Kickstarter to publish the old school, detached cover module prints.  

The PDF rewards for this campaign include the PDF versions of the Complete editions of the five individual modules. The complete version includes the 5e, OSR and in two cases, the Pathfinder version of the adventures. 

I should mention that Kevin is having the original B&W art colorized for this release.

30 bucks get you the Digital Complete level - everything in PDF, including both OSR and 5e versions.

70 bucks get you the Hardcover print copy in either OSR or 5e, plus everything listed in the Digital Complete backer level.

State of The Tavern Keeper - And So It was That Pexx Was Right - The Tavern is Becoming Full-Time :)

Pexx, the 'Tavern Custodian" and general right hand, told me recently that I may be retired, but I've got a full-time gig. I didn't believe him until one of my retired friends went down to his union office and came back with this

 I started filling in the interviews that we have on the calendar for the Tavern Chat Podcast, the weekly Tavern Chat hangout sessions, the appearances I'm making on other scheduled shows on The Tavern's Discord server as well as my physical therapy, doc appointments, and all important Gaming Conventions and shit - Pexx is right. I AM busy. Guess I'm a visual person when it comes to this stuff, as Excel spreadsheets didn't do much to drive it home ;) This isnt even including blog posts, daily podcast episodes and wanting to get back to producing some more gaming material.

I'm feeling much better after nearly two weeks of general health shittiness. OSR Christmas returns tomorrow, post office trip on Tuesday to mail out packages, email catch up this weekend and maybe even work on some maps too. I'm psyched!

Thank you for the support. Tavern Ho!

Has Roll20 Stopped Releasing Orr Group Industry Reports? No Quarterly Usage Numbers Since 1st Quarter 2018

It looks like Roll20 is no longer issuing Orr Group Industry Reports.

The 1st Quarter of 2018 Orr Report was released on June 12th, 2018 and even that was late:

We’ll be releasing the Q2 Industry Report pretty soon as the Q1 report was a little delayed. Until then, please enjoy the complete Q1 2018 Industry report below:

The 1st Quarter report follows the above paragraph on the original post, found here.

As far as I can tell, no 2nd or 3rd quarter reports have been posted by Roll20 (I'm guessing its still too early for a 4th quarter report).  I wonder if they've lost some of their user base with last year's Nolan T Jones fiasco.

In any case, if the reports have been released and I've missed them please point me in the right direction. I'd like to see and analyze the numbers.

Kickstarter - The ADOM (Ancient Domains Of Mystery) Roleplaying Game

Reminds me of the AD&D 1e core books - The Player's Handbook first cover and the Dungeon Master's Guide second cover. Not duplicates of, certainly, but inspired by.

The ADOM (Ancient Domains Of Mystery) Roleplaying Game is certainly inspired by old school gaming and the OSR but draws its main inspiration from a rogue-like computer game, at least as far as setting and style go.

(ADOM) is a complete redesign from ground up with a fresh new rules system based on the best OSR games out in the field, extended by what makes ADOM unique:

• A tantalizing Corruption mechanic representing the powerful lure of Chaos. How far will you go down the road of damnation for the powers to help you defeat the very thing you are fighting?
• A non-Vancian spell system based on power points providing many tactical options to caster classes. Will you draw on your very own life force to power the vital spells needed to survive an encounter? Will you give in to the whispering madness of Chaos to provide your spells with that special extra kick?
• A morality system where Law and Chaos should never be confused with Good and Evil.

The full-color art looks nice thus far.

34 bucks gives you B&W Soft Cover Print on Demand At Cost versions of the rules (plus PDF)
46 bucks gives you the above in hardcover.
57 bucks gives you the above in deluxe color hardcover.

Note - You still have to pay the "At Cost" amount plus shipping for your dead tree copies, but you may order as many as you want so this could be a very cost-effective way to outfit a gaming group with a set of books.

Kickstarter - Treacherous Traps for 5th Edition!

Nord Games does some solid RPG Kickstarters. Even though they are generally for 5th edition, the cover concepts that convert easily to OSR rulesets or even - dare I say it - Pathfinder.

The Treacherous Traps for 5th Edition! Kickstarter looks to be a good fit for OSR gamers DESPITE having 5th Edition in its title  ;)

Treacherous Traps is an incredible resource for game masters who are looking to get more out of their dungeon design. The book contains two hundred and fifty pre-built traps ranging in level and severity so that you can always find the perfect trap for your party. 

There is also a chapter containing a random trap generator written, in part, by the legendary Steve Winter. This chapter contains fifty trap triggers, and fifty trap effects that, when combined, create up to twenty-five hundred different combinations.  

Although the content in this book and collection of card decks is written for 5th Edition D&D, the trap concepts and mechanics can be easily adapted for use with other editions of D&D as well as other fantasy themed tabletop RPGs. (emphasis mine)

There are lots of options for backing. Single deck for 12 bucks (50 traps), 16 bucks for a 100 card random trap generator deck (very tempting), 20 for the book in PDF, 40 for the book in hardcover - and levels for multiple decks and such. I'm thinking the random trap generator deck for me.

Coming to the History Channel on January 23rd - Knight Fight (Armored MMA-like Show)

Somehow I feel we need to raise the cash to get Douglas Cole a shot at an appearance on Knight Fight :)

Welcome to the toughest, most violent armored combat competition in the world today. “Knight Fight” steps inside the world of the full-contact Armored Combat League — often referred to as “Medieval MMA” or “Knight Fight Club.” This blood sport is a full-contact armored combat league where modern-day warriors battle in over eighty pounds of plated armor with real steel weapons. Rooted in historical traditions, for the first time, these knights are set to wage war as each episode features six new fighters who customize era-specific armor, garb and weaponry and engage in numerous battle rounds to see who has the skill and strength to win the ultimate Knight Fight. Hosted and judged by WWE superstar Jay “Christian” Reso, the winner walks away with a championship title, $10,000 and a spot in the season finale for a chance to become the first ever “Knight Fight” champion.

Live by the sword, die by the sword: knights were some of history’s most brutal warriors. With an armor of steel and a will of iron, they took part in some of the bloodiest battles ever fought. So dedicated were these warriors, that between meets they would challenge one another to extreme trials of combat. “Knight Fight” introduces both beginner and expert armored athletes of different ages and backgrounds – many taking this on as a second profession – ready to endure a ruthless, intense and physically demanding tournament. Targeting a specific time-period each episode, “Knight Fight” examines the Vikings vs. Byzantine Knights, Barbarians vs. Roman Knights, Knights Templar, 100 Years War and much more.

Reso is joined by expert judges Andre Sinou, Co-Founder and Creator of the Armored Combat League, and John Clements, Director of the Association for Renaissance Martial Arts. Impressing the judges on the criteria of aggression, technique and defense in each of the following rounds will be no easy feat: the grand melee, three one-minute battles where it is every man for himself; a two on two team melee and a duel where the final two competitors left standing face off in an epic head to head clash. With $10,000 on the line and a coveted title, only one can emerge victorious.

“Knight Fight” is produced for HISTORY by Matador Content. Executive Producers for Matador Content are Jay Peterson and Todd Lubin with Vincent Cariati serving as Showrunner and Executive Producer. Jim Pasquarella and Mary E. Donahue are the executive producers for HISTORY. A+E Networks holds worldwide distribution rights for “KnightFight.”

Kickstarter - Off the Beaten Path, Mountain Excursions (Swords & Wizardry and System Neutral)

You know I'm feeling under the weather when a Kickstarter from our community's own Thom Wilson flies under my radar. I'd slap myself silly but I'm already halfway there ;)

Anyhow, the Off the Beaten Path, Mountain Excursions Kickstarter has 4 days left as I post this,

So, how does Thom describe his latest project:

A  minimum of twenty single or double page mountain excursions to use as side quests or stand-alone adventures for your Fantasy RPG. There are over twenty-six pages of encounters found within cold mountain passes and snowy locales. As your player's characters travel through the frozen wasteland, they will come across tombs, yeti caves, snow drake lairs, deserted lodges, and more! These adventures are a great way to add additional encounters during travel, or to handle an unexpected change in direction!

Then there are the stretch goals and daily goals:

Thom is always on time or early. His short adventures are an awesome drop-in resource in any campaign. You can choose systemless, so Pathfinder, 5e, Rolemaster players - whatever, have at it :)

Follow Up to Yesterday's Post and a HUGE Thank You.

It appears that the response to Gareth's threat to me via his Facebook comment got him some unwanted attention - the post from the original author and Gareth's comment have been removed.

edit - I've been told the initial post and comment is still up. I guess stupid is what stupid is. Feel free to share the screenshot below wherever you feel is appropriate. Included here for your convenience:

I seriously can't thank you all enough for the outpouring of support. I think a protective squad was lining up behind Old Man Grognard for North Texas ;)

Let's be clear. Gareth Skarka is a blowhard. Just like his promises to complete his unfulfilled obligations, his threats of physical violence are empty. The threats, however, do an amazing job of revealing just the kind of man he is.

I've been told by a few that they have sent the screenshot in question to some of the publishers Gareth has done work for. Although I appreciate the thought, I suspect this will not be any sort of new information for them, as they allowed Gareth to do work under a pseudonym, I would assume to avoid any controversies attached to the Skarka name.

Again, I can't say enough about all of you. I appreciate all that you've said and done more than I can ever hope to express.

Still far from 100% on my end and got to add hives on my palms and soles of my feet to the myriad mix of minor ailments I'm going through. God willing, we'll pick OSR Christmas back up on Monday.

Gareth Skarka of Far West Shame Threatens to Punch Your Bartender in the Throat (& calls me names)

So, it looks like my recent Gareth Skarka post was A Post Too Far: 
https://www.tenkarstavern.com/2019/01/gareth-sharka-rings-in-new-year-pretty.html

As I did in this morning's episode of The Tavern Chat Podcast, let me respond to Gareth:

Yes, you could have walked away, but then you would be on the hook for nearly $50k in refunds. As you spoke earlier this year of a secret benefactor that was going to help fund the printing of books, there is a significant chance the funds are not available to fulfill your print backers. So long as you "are making an effort", even after over 7 years, the Kickstarter bill technically does not come due. Whatever happened to the monies raised for the Buckaroo Banzai RPG from preorders taken PRIOR to the Far West Kickstarter. Or do we not discuss that in "decent circles" anymore? As for still delivering, Far West has set a record for non-delivery and missed dates. Look at this list to jar your memory:  https://www.mutedhorn.net/far-west-delivery-estimates. The list has been updated 73 times as of January 2, 2019.

Now, as for your choice of language, I wouldn't take you for a "C-Word" person. I'm married to an Irish-American woman and I've been exposed to the word over the last seven years (timed well for the Far West Kickstarter lateness) so whatever, but threatening to "punch me in the fucking throat" is a bit much. Threats of violence are a dime a dozen on the internet. You don't scare me Gareth. Sorry if that disappoints you. If you want to talk without throwing fists at a retired law enforcement officer (hint - violence is probably not a wise choice) I'll be at Total Con, Gary Con, NTRPG Con (apparently they are forming a posse so that might be one to avoid), GameHole and Shire Con in 2019. I'm not hiding but I'm certainly not taking a trip out to Iowa or wherever it is you live so you can bellow some more bluster.

Your done apologizing for being late? You mean failing to meet your own publicly stated deadlines and due dates nearly six dozen times you've finally run out of excuses? Glad to hear it.

No, a game is not life or death, but Far West is probably the death knell of your career in RPGs. When you need to write for the new Star Trek line under a pseudonym because the publisher fears bad publicity from you being attached to a project, the signs aren't good.

There you have it Gareth. I use your own words to show the falsehoods you share to your backers and the community at large. That is why you are upset. Your words and your failures.

State of the Tavern Keeper - On Antibiotics We Go!

I've been feeling run down since Saturday night (as I mentioned prior). Since then I've felt lethargic, run down and have had other symptoms crop up (small pimple break out, sinuses, headaches among other things) and I'm now on antibiotics. Two doses in and some symptoms are already fading. Hopefully, I feel more like myself by the weekend.

Aside from physical therapy appointments and doctor visits, I haven't strayed more than a few blocks from home since the weekend.

Emails? Mostly untouched. Packages? Unmailed. Day 10 of OSR Christmas? Can't focus enough to get the damn post straight.

Two pinched nerves aren't helping. When it rains, it pours ;)

As stated above, I hope to start feeling better this weekend. In the meantime, I'm here. Barely. Heh.

Did I mention how thankful I am that two of this week's interviews for the podcast side of things had to reschedule? Small miracles but I am thankful :)

Alright. On to recording a short podcast and then to bed.

Reminder - Tavern Chat Tonight - 9 PM Eastern - Tenkar's Tavern Discord

Yep. Its Wednesday and that means tonight is Tavern Chat, a general geek / RPG community voice hangout.

It kicks off at 9 PM Eastern and runs until 11ish.

Where? In the Speakeasy Channel on the Tenkar's Tavern Discord Server.

You can use the following link: https://discord.gg/KmnJWEs

Prior to that, we'll have a recorded live interview with Skeeter Green at 8 PM in the Live Shows Channel.

I'll see you all tonight.

Gail Gygax Call to Action - Paul Stormberg is Hosting an AMA from 1 to 3 PM Eastern re: Gary's Unpublished Works and More

Hey, look! Gail Gygax has something she wants us to share!

Gail Carpenter Gygax 

6 hrs ·  

For those interested in hearing about what the future holds for Garys unpublished works and more, Paul Stormberg will be hosting a reddit site in the rpg area under PaulStormberg from 12 -2 cst. 

This is our initial interview and you can feel free to ask Paul questions. 

He has been quite busy cataloging all the IP and is the creative directer and more for Gygax Games. 

Please share

Gail didn't give a link so this might help: https://www.reddit.com/search?q=PaulStormberg

Now, why ANYONE would do an Ask Me Anything (AMA) from 1 PM until 3 PM on a Wednesday afternoon (short window in the middle of a workday afternoon) is beyond me. It seems akin to the government releasing bad news late on a Friday so few actually hear about it.

Still, I AM sharing this out and maybe some Taverners will have some excellent questions :)

Gareth Sharka Rings in the New Year - Pretty Much Like the Last Seven Years - Far West is STILL Not Released

Ah, Gareth. What a man, really. Or is it: "What? A man? Really?" Gareth has a blog post to ring in 2019. Here are the relevant parts:

So now we know exactly which books to NOT purchase. Sorry Gareth, but SEVEN FUCKING YEARS is a bit too long for being late. I'd call it a "failed to complete" at this point. But you won't own your failure, because you are banking on the idea that empty promises will keep legal threats from your door. Gareth, meet Ken.

And look. He promises to get it "out the door this year." What a fucking joke. When you don't respect your customers and backers enough, to be honest with them, why should they accept anything that comes out of you as truth.

But hey, how did you wrap up 2016? (I don't see a 2017 wrap up - I suspect his depression / Twitter obsession distracted him)

And yet, two years - 24 months AFTER this post, we still aint got shit.

Well, what about 2015?

Ah, that looks like a promise to complete the project. 36 months ago...

How about the end of 2014?

49 months ago. Pretty good on talk. Empty on promises though.

OSR Christmas - Day 9 - Awarding the Gifts

Here we go with awarding the gifts for Day Nine of OSR Christmas. Let's see who gets what today :)

1) 1 Print Copy of The Mystery at Port Greely, an AS&SH adventure module, signed by the author, Jeffrey Talanian (US Only) - Wolfgang Coe

2) 1 PDF Copy of The Midderlands from MonkeyBlood - Michael Bolam

3) 1 Bundle of OSR Patches from Thad Moore - ships worldwide - Nathan Christenson

4) 1 PDF Copy of The Hero's Journey (James Spahn / Barrel Rider Games) - Theodric Ælfwinesson

5) 1 PDF Copy of the World War II: Operation WhiteBox adventure "The Argentine Connection" (Stouthearted Games) -  Adam Ness

6) 1 Print Copy of Dragon Heresy (Gaming Ballistic) (US Only) - Michael Gross

7) 1 PDF Copy of Heart of Darkness (White Star Adventure/ Middle Kingdoms Adventure & Trading Co.) -  Carl Heyl

If your name is above, email me at tenkarsDOTtavern at that gmail thing. Put "OSR Christmas Gift" in the subject.  If you are receiving a physical gift I'll need a physical shipping address I can forward on (or use myself). If the gift is digital, I will need the email you use with DriveThruRPG. Day Ten of OSR Christmas should go up tomorrow.

Note - the weekend was literally really shitty. I'm feeling much better but I'm still in recovery mode and my ass is still dragging. Emails have gone unread. Packages still need to be mailed. We'll get there.

(edit - all comments at The Tavern have to be moderated - approved by an admin - meaning me. The Tavern has become the target of spambots and others and this is the best, if most tedious, way to handle such. I approve comments as fast as I can. I appreciate your patience - Erik)

New - The Dungeon Show - Live Interview with Stefan Pokorny (Dwarven Forge) - Tonight - 10 PM Eastern

Tonight launches a new weekly event on the Tenkar's Tavern Discord Server - The Dungeon Show. Yep, at 10 PM Eastern, Carl Heyl (Save or Die Podcast) with virtually sit down with Stefan Pokorny of Dwarven Forge.

Going forward, Carl will interview other members of the gaming community on Monday nights using the same format. It feels like the beginning of a talk show network ;)

Carl will be recording the episodes and releasing such in podcast format. Link to the podcast: https://anchor.fm/thedungeonshow

Want to listen live? Use this link: https://discord.gg/9GyQ7kb

The go to The Dungeon Show on the left-hand side of the page:

See you tonight!

News - Michael Stackpole Resigns from GAMA Board of Directors

I'm sharing this news with minimal comment. I will say, I am ever grateful for Mercenaries, Spies & Private Eyes along with Michael's work on Tunnels & Trolls.

Link to the resignation letter on Michael Stackpole's website is here.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

To the GAMA Board,

It is my great pleasure to have been part of the gaming industry since 1972 when I first discovered it. In 1977 I sold my first article, in 1978 I sold my first game design and in 1979 began working for Flying Buffalo, Inc.. In 1985 I was able to go freelance and since that time I have made my living through creative arts including game design and game based fiction. My work has been honored with Origins awards, and in 1993 I received the GAMA Meritorious Service award, and was a first ballot inductee into the Academy of Gaming Arts and Design Hall of Fame. I have worked long enough in this industry to have survived many of the companies for whom I worked, and have continued to enjoy fruitful associations with what companies remain.

A long time ago, to honor the industry which gave me my start, I made a personal pledge to serve it however I could. I have been a long time volunteer. I have been an advocate for gaming in perilous times. With Loren Wiseman’s help, in the late 1980s and early 1990s I successfully led the fight against the religious right and their attempts to censor and abolish the games we create, enjoy and share. I still take pride in gamers reporting to me that The Pulling Report enabled them to fight back against anti-game bigotry even to this day. Though the work is difficult, I have been pleased to continue the fight as part of the Industry Watch Committee of GAMA.

The greatest privilege I have had is to serve on the Board of Directors, initially for three years as an elected member, and the last eleven as an Emeritus member. I feel the Emeritus role on the board is a crucial one, since board turnover requires a repository of knowledge so we can avoid the pitfalls of past mistakes, and maintain the benefits of what we have learned in past times.

I regret that I must now tender my resignation from that post.

I have not reached this decision based on any political divide within the Board. I have come to it because the Board is broken. Since June, the board has had more meetings than ever before, and has done less than ever before. In one recent meeting, it took the board 45 minutes to word a resolution empowering a committee to hire a lawyer to negotiate with another lawyer. Three-quarters of an hour, in a meeting scheduled for two hours, which stretched to four.

The board is broken when the organization’s membership indicates its will; and then the board commissions a poll to second guess the membership’s will. When that poll comes back confirming what the membership wants, the board hires a lawyer to tell them they can ignore the membership.

The board is broken when it, having previously enjoyed robust and detailed discussions about GAMA harassment policies, down to the minutia of the structuring of an investigative team to be in place at our shows, chooses only to censure an officer who physically assaulted a female security guard.

The board is broken when, in wishing to discuss me in email, without my being aware of the chain, they actually send it to a list which includes me. (Thought I’d let you know about that so you didn’t think your emails were leaked to me.)

This is not a decision reached easily, and one that comes with profound sadness. During my time in the industry, I have seen incredible change for the better, and an incredible resilience to recover from all manner of disasters—economic, social and board-generated. I have great belief that the gaming industry will survive and thrive in the future. It is bigger than any one person, or a board. It can be defined only by the pleasure and joy it brings everyone it touches, and, therefore, will be eternal.

My resignation is effective 3 PM, 5 January 2019

Michael A. Stackpole

State of the Tavern Keeper - Sweats, Fever and Fun Stuff - Not!

Last night Rach and I were finally catching up with The Man in the High Castle. We were midway through Season 3, Episode 9 (or 10) when that little voice inside me said: "time to hit pause and use the bathroom."

I might as well have paused for an hour of my life. Food poisoning or harsh but quick stomach bug, I know not which, but I spent an hour with a pot in front of me, my insides leaving from behind me, and the worse case of sweats since I had cancer back in 2006. I literally don't remember most of the hour I lost, except for Rach sponging me down like some child with a 104 fever. And then it passed. Simple as that. Hell, once I dried off it was like nothing had happened. Except for the lethargy.

Seriously. We watched the end of Episode 9 and then finished with Episode 10, with me snuggling into Rach like a cat. Needless to say, my ass has been dragging since then. I feel like I was run over by a truck. My ass is DRAGGING. My energy is lacking and I've been a cranky fucker most of the day but especially this morning - just ask Pexx - or Rach ;)

Anyhow, with any luck, I'll get a podcast out in a bit. If I don't pass out first.

Recapping the Designers & Makers Series of Interviews Thus Far (and a peek at what's coming up this week)

I can't believe we've done eight interviews in the Designers & Makers series on the Tavern Chat Podcast thus far. Not that I can even call them interviews anymore, because they don't keep to a script. It was suggested I refer to them as "fireside chats" and I guess that's as accurate as anything.

So, here are the ones we've done thus far:

E210 - Designers & Makers #1 - Interview with Michael "BadMike" Badolato (NTRPG Con/Frog God Games)

Today we kick off the Designers & Makers series of interviews (with about 40 interviews currently on the grid over the next three months). Michael "BadMike" Badolato has the notoriety of being our first guest in the series. BadMike is one of the main guys behind the NTRPG Con, works for Frog God Games and does his own business selling old school games on eBay. Join us as BadMike answers "Ths Five Questions" after which we free range a bit ;)

E213 - Designers & Makers - I Talk with Tom Knauss (Writer/Freelancer/Frog God Games)

On today's episode of the Tavern Chat Podcast, I talk sit down across the virtual table with Tom Knauss, best known for his work as a writer for Frog God Games. We talk RPGs, art, Hawk the Slayer and more ;)

E215 - Designers & Makers - I Talk with Carl Heyl (Save or Die Podcast)

In this installment of the Designers & Makers series of interviews, I talk with Carl Heyl of the Save or Die and The Crusader Podcast. Yes, we even talk Hawk the Slayer ;)

E217 - Designers & Makers - I Talk with Zach Glazar (Frog God Games)

Today I interviewed Zach Glazar (Frog God Games). No Hawk the Slayer question, because the man has never seen the movie. Sigh.

E218 - Designers & Makers - I Interview Douglas Cole (Gaming Ballistic)

In this episode of the Designers & Makers series of interviews, I talk with Douglas Cole of Gaming Ballistic. We talk GURPS, OSR, Kickstarter, usable unarmed combat rules for OSR gaming, as well as Doug's current Kickstarter - Lost Hall of Tyr (2nd Edition)

E227 - Designers & Makers - I Hang With Jason Hobbs (Hobbs & Friends, Hex Talk, Random Screed)

This morning we recorded another in a series of interviews with Designers & Makers in tabletop gaming. With this episode I hang with Jason Hobbs, of the Ennie nominated Hobbs & Friends of the OSR, Hex Talk and Random Screed podcasts. Jason and I have been friends for a while and it was great to catch up with him :)

E233 - Designers & Makers - I Sit Down with Ian McGarty of Silver Bulette Publishing

Today we have the next installment in the Designers & Makers series of interviews. I am actually loathe to call them interviews at this point, as they have turned more into friendly chats than scripted interviews. This time I sit down with Ia McGarty of Silver Bulette Publishing. 

E234 - Designers & Makers "Fireside Chat" with Omer Golan (Stellagama Publishing)

In today's episode of The Tavern Chat Podcast I hang out with Omer Golan of Stellagama Publishing. Omer has a number of releases in support Stars Without Number and White Star but is perhaps best known currently for Cepheus Light, a reworked and reedited version of Cepheus, which is itself an OGL clone of Mongoose Traveller 1e. Come for the Traveller talk, stay for the AD&D 2e observations ;)

Later this week we'll be adding interviews with Vince Florio (Wild Games Productions / Podcaster), Sizzoul (Strange Gods Podcast), Skeeter Green (needs no introduction ;) and Josh Beckelheimer (JB Productions) with at least another eight on tap before the end of January.

Strap in because it's going to be a helluva ride!  :)

Reminder - RPG Breakfast Club - 10 AM Eastern - Sunday Morning (Tomorrow)

Tomorrow morning at 10 AM Eastern the Tenkar's Tavern Discord Server is hosting its weekly RPG Breakfast Club.

What is The RPG Breakfast Club? It's been likened to a convention panel, except that you can listen from the comfort of your own home. Heck, most sessions even take questions and comments at the end as they open up the voice chat for the listening audience.

Tomorrow the guests are:

@Mottokrosh (Mottokrosh Machinations)
@Rob Conley (Bat in the Attic)
@የሁዕዕረቿነ (Strange Gods)
@Todd (our host / Hexed Press)
@Andrew1879 (FASA Games)

Here's the link: https://discord.gg/fReGmuD

News - Darwin Bromley, Co-Founder of Mayfair Games, Dies at 68

You can read the full article at Tabletop Wire.

Mayfair Games was big when I was in my teens and college years. Not only did they publish DC Heroes and Underground, but they also had the RoleAids series of releases. RoleAids were the only non-TSR era releases that I often considered as official and canon as the actual TSR releases.

Heck, they even won the lawsuit that TSR filed for trademark violations, although if memory serves, it almost drained Mayfair Games dry in the process.

Actually, didn't they also published Chill after Pacesetter folded?

Darwin P Bromley, attorney, game designer and co-founder of Mayfair Games, has passed away at 68. He is survived by his wife, Trella and their four children. Bromley was born in West Virginia, but moved to the Chicago area to attend school. He studied mathematics at Marshall University and obtained his law degree in 1975 from Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law. He most recently lived in Jacksonville, Florida. 

Bromley founded Mayfair Game in 1981 with his brother Peter and other, and was company president from until 1997. Peter died in 2016 of a sudden illness. Darwin recently donated the brothers’ game collection to The Strong, National Museum of Play.

During Bromley’s tenure at Mayfair, the company published a range of role playing products including RoleAids, DC Heroes RPG, and Underground RPG. Mayfair won a lawsuit filed by TSR in 1993 for violations of an trademark agreement. 

Rest well. Day of death was the first of the year :(

OSR Christmas - Day 9 - The Gifts that Keep on Giving

I love OSR Christmas. It really is the gift giving celebration that keeps on giving.

As usual, we have some awesome gifts in the OSR Christmas mix.

1) 1 Print Copy of The Mystery at Port Greely, an AS&SH adventure module, signed by the author, Jeffrey Talanian (US Only)

2) 1 PDF Copy of The Midderlands from MonkeyBlood

3) 1 Bundle of OSR Patches from Thad Moore - ships worldwide

4) 1 PDF Copy of The Hero's Journey (James Spahn / Barrel Rider Games)

5) 1 PDF Copy of the World War II: Operation WhiteBox adventure "The Argentine Connection" (Stouthearted Games)

6) 1 Print Copy of Dragon Heresy (Gaming Ballistic) (US Only)

7) 1 PDF Copt of Heart of Darkness (White Star Adventure/ Middle Kingdoms Adventure & Trading Co.)

How do you enter for a chance to be gifted? Simply comment on this very post. On Saturday, January 5th, 2019 sometime after 6pm Eastern (so comment before), we will randomly determine those to be gifted from the comments received. It really is that simple. Check back often, because we'll have at least 3 more days of OSR Christmas running this month.

Note - If you live outside the US and get picked for a Print gift, I will substitute a $5 OneBookShelf Gift Certificate and the print prize will go back in the pool. N/A this round of gifting

Note 2 - Anything shipping from me (Tenkar) won't be shipping until at least Monday. I've been running around everywhere it seems BUT the post office. Sigh.

(edit - all comments at The Tavern have to be moderated - approved by an admin - meaning me. The Tavern has become the target of spambots and others and this is the best, if most tedious, way to handle such. I approve comments as fast as I can. I appreciate your patience - Erik)

Below is a more or less complete list of the OSR Christmas Grab Bag:

• Far Away Lands - PDF Bundles
• OSR Patches - Multiple sets - some shipping worldwide
• World War II: Operation WhiteBox adventure "The Argentine Connection" - PDF copies
• Castle of the Mad Archmage and all the expansions (Level 3 East, Musicland, and Bitterbark's Circus - in Print)
• Lord of Suttham Oldfeld bundle for The Midderlands shipped anywhere in the world
• Daily PDF giveaway of the Midderlands
• Print copy of For Coin & Blood, Eorathril, and Print copy of Fallen Justice anywhere in the world.
• ZWEIHÄNDER Complete Digital Bundle (all 13 digital products)
• 3 PDF’s of the Sunken City Omnibus (DCC RPG)
• ALL Frog God Games Swords & Wizardry releases in digital format (that they can account for) in a bundle for 1 person
• Some Frog God Games Print products signed by Bill Webb (shipped by me)
• Outdoor Encounter Cards and Dungeon Challenge Card - in Print (shipped by me)
• 4 Class Compendium PDFs, 4 White Star Galaxy Edition PDFs, 4 The Hero's Journey PDFs
• Random Gaming Material from a Taverner's Gaming Collection
• Random Shit from the Tenkar Game Collection - at least three Priority Mail boxes of stuff
• 6 copies of Dragon Heresy in Print
• 2 copies Undying Orb in Print
• PDF copies of The Sentinel Chapel for DragonQuest / System Neutral
• The Mystery at Port Greely”, an AS&SH adventure module, signed by the author, Jeffrey Talanian

Deal of the Day - The Sentinel Chapel (DragonQuest / The Fantasy Trip)

Todays Deal of the Day is The Sentinel Chapel for DragonQuest, with a conversion sheet for The Fantasy Trip and easily converted to most any fantasy RPG. Sure, I'm late with this post but I had a busy day ;)

A DragonQuest adventure for 3-6 adventurer-level characters. 

Late in the year, as the harvest season is closing, and towns and villages are preparing for the coming winter, word has reached the group that someone is looking for a small band of adventurers for a dangerous, but well-paying task. They are to travel into the Fealhoa Valley, a region that has been deadly dangerous for the past 30 years, when it became overrun with monsters and undead creatures. A village called Cambray, several days' travel into the Fealhoa Valley has been cut off, and no one has been in contact with that community for many years. 

The adventurers are to travel to the site of a chapel located about a day's travel from the town of Cambray and recover the silver letters on the family graves of a group of silversmiths who were originally from Cambray, and whose remaining family members now live in exile. 

Although this adventure has been designed and written for the DragonQuest role-playing game, it can be easily translated for use with other game systems. The GM will need to make the necessary interpolations beforehand in order to do this. 

For use with The Fantasy Trip (Melee, Wizard, In the Labyrinth), there is a free PDF conversion sheet that provides stats and descriptions for the adventure for use with that game system.

Regularly 4.95, The Sentinel Chapel is on sale for 2.97 until 11 AM tomorrow morning.

Yep, that's an affiliate link above. Help keep the beer cold and the lights on at The Tavern by using our affiliate links.