Luke Gygax Statement re: Gary Con and CV-19

Shared on Facebook

Gary Con began as a small gathering of friends and family after my father’s funeral in 2008. What was a few people playing games and swapping stories about my Dad at the American Legion has become something far greater. Gary Con brings all of us together once a year to celebrate the life and works of my father. People from around the globe travel to Lake Geneva to see where it all began. This little resort town was the place where D&D was created and the company TSR was founded- and you can actually go play D&D at my childhood home on 330 Center Street.

The close-knit atmosphere and camaraderie at Gary Con has caused us to grow rapidly over the past few years. Thanks to a dedicated and hardworking staff, lots of volunteers, GM’s and attendees- we’ve gone from a single game day on Saturday (Gary Con I) to one of the fastest-growing and most popular gaming conventions in the country. All the time we’ve remained true to what my Dad always wanted people to understand; There’s always room at the table, that strangers are friends you haven’t made yet, and our family is oftentimes more than just the people we share blood with.

All of us involved with Gary Con are concerned with the spread of the Covid-19. When I posted about it on Saturday night we didn’t know what the next few days would bring. Many of you have expressed a need to forgo coming to the show this year due to concerns and we certainly understand. For many of our international attendees, a trip outside their own country may prove to be difficult to return from. As we said on Saturday night, each attendee must assess their personal situation in regards to attending.

So where are we right now? Currently, we are still assessing the situation and working with the Grand Geneva to determine the way ahead. Our contract with the Grand Geneva is part of our reason to stay the course as canceling the show without a ban on gathering by government authority we can’t cancel without penalties. The penalties would cripple us at best, and quite possibly be the end of the road entirely.

Some of you have mentioned Adepticon, a wargaming miniatures show that takes place the same weekend of Gary Con, announced earlier today they were canceling their show. A key difference between Adepticon and Gary Con is that the state of Illinois has forbidden any gathering of more than 1000 people for the next 30 days. Wisconsin has yet to take that strong of a measure. So the Grand Geneva would be able to sue us if we cancel because Wisconsin hasn’t forbidden the gathering, just recommended against it.

If the state of Wisconsin enacts a policy forbidding a gathering of large numbers of people that then allows both parties in our contract to abide by the “force majeure” language of our contract which then nullifies our agreement due to the action of a higher power. (In this case the state of Wisconsin.)

Please know that all your concerns are being read and weighed in our thoughts on how we are going forward. We have a meeting Friday morning with the senior management of the Grand Geneva. We feel certain that the next 24 hours will see us, partnered with the leadership at the Grand Geneva, making the best decision for our attendees, our volunteers, our family, and the community. We ask you to remain patient as we make our roll for traps check, and find the best path forward.

Sincerely,

Luke Gygax

State of the Tavern Keeper - Released from ICU - Self Isolates awaiting CDC Test Results

I woke up in good spirits this morning, undampened by the soggy waffle I had for breakfast. What can I say, I was hungry.

Just before noon, the doc came into my room, asked a few general questions, listened to my lungs and then mentioned that patients that are asymptomatic and are waiting on CDC testing results for Corona Virus screening are sent home to self isolate while waiting for the results.

Yes, I asked if that meant I was going home. It did and I was.

When I was discharged I saw that in addition to pneumonia - both viral and bacterial, I also had acute sepsis. Phew, bullet dodged.

Tonight (Thursday, March 12, 2020) I'll be hosting a Tavern Chat Hangout on the Tavern's Discord Server at 9PM Eastern. I'm in a very good mood :)

That being said, I am beat to hell. I'll be keeping a light schedule for the next week or two.

Thanks for all of the kind thoughts, good wishes, and prayers. It all helped and is greatly appreciated.

Tavern Closed for Pneumonia

State of The Tavern Keeper - In ER with Pneumonia

Title pretty much says it all.

Left lung. Awaiting results of X-rays and bloodwork.

I’ll post an update when I’m released.

I’ll never mock Con Crud again ;)

News - Free League Signs Deal to Publish RPGs in Tolkien's Middle-Earth

From the Free League website

Free League Publishing today announced a partnership with Sophisticated Games to publish tabletop roleplaying games set in Middle-earth and based on the books by J.R.R. Tolkien. Francesco Nepitello, author of the game series alongside Marco Maggi, will continue as its lead designer.

"We are thrilled to be working with Sophisticated Games and Francesco Nepitello to bring to life a new edition of The One Ring and its 5E iteration. We grew up with J.R.R. Tolkien's iconic works and we're huge fans of the original version of the game. We have a very similar approach to game design as Francesco and we're convinced that we can create something truly special together," Free League’s CEO Tomas Härenstam says.

“Free League shares all our values. Values which are vital in interpreting the most extraordinary fantasy world ever created, one that is of enduring interest throughout the world in every language. Working with Free League’s highly talented team we look forward to continuing the work we began a decade ago, with the publication of The One Ring," says Sophisticated Games' MD Robert Hyde.

The agreement will go into effect from June 1, 2020. Products and release dates will be announced at a later time.

For questions and interview requests, please email to pr@frialigan.se

News - Gary Con & Grand Geneva Actions to Mitigate Risk at GC XII

Taken directly from the Gary Con website as of March 7, 2020.

There is a lot of attention on infectious diseases this cold and flu season, including COVID-19 (aka Coronavirus), and we have addressed several attendees' questions about it.  We wanted to let everyone know publicly how we are working with the Grand Geneva staff to take actions to mitigate the risk of contracting an infectious disease while at the Grand Geneva Resort to celebrate Gary Con. 

We are currently acting based on information from the CDC as found here: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/summary.html 

The CDC makes the following recommendations that are good guidelines for everyone, including attendees, staff, and volunteers at Gary Con.

• It’s currently flu and respiratory disease season and the CDC recommends getting a flu vaccine, taking everyday preventive actions to help stop the spread of germs, and taking flu antivirals if prescribed. Please read these carefully and follow them.  These are relatively simple and believed to be the best defense against infectious diseases.  Good hygiene and proper hand washing are a must. 
• Individuals and communities should familiarize themselves with recommendations to protect themselves and their communities from getting and spreading respiratory illnesses like coronavirus disease 2019.
• Older people and people with severe chronic conditions should take special precautions because they are at higher risk of developing serious COVID-19 illness.
• If you are a close contact of someone with COVID-19 and develop symptoms of COVID-19, call your healthcare provider and tell them about your symptoms and your exposure.

In addition to those guidelines, Gary Con asks:

• If you are exhibiting flu-like symptoms, and especially the two main, known symptoms of COVID-19, a high fever, and a dry cough, that you stay home. It is important that you not expose others to the risk of getting sick because you decided to disregard their health and safety.
• If you live in a community where Coronavirus cases have been documented and you may have been exposed to it, we would ask you to weigh your attendance vs. possibly exposing other attendees. Be aware that people infected with the Coronavirus can be contagious with no external symptoms for an extended period of time. 
• If you suffer from chronic conditions, possess a compromised immune system, are recovering from a major illness or hospitalization or have respiratory issues we urge you to consult with your medical provider before deciding to attend Gary Con. If you are in a higher risk category please strongly consider staying home this year.  

While attending Gary Con XII we encourage attendees to minimize physical contact with other attendees. (Shaking hands, hugs, etc.) A simple wave is a good way to greet fellow Seekers!

Please be prepared! Attendees should bring appropriate amounts of hand sanitizer, germ-killing wipes and similar materials for their unique and individual needs. Gary Con has purchased hand sanitizer for the staff and volunteers, as well as several hundred travel size bottles for Guests and GMs.  There is a high demand for hand sanitizer at retail outlets and many are sold out.  So once again it is wise to bring a sufficient personal supply to last you all four days. The steps being taken by Gary Con in partnership with the Grand Geneva are outlined below.

Attendees exhibiting flu-like symptoms may be asked to leave Gary Con if they are not taking reasonable steps to protect others such as wearing a mask to contain their cough. 

When the Coronavirus outbreak first became news, we began working on an action plan with the Grand Geneva to come up with a plan. Below is a statement from The Grand Geneva to Gary Con.

Due to the recent issues surrounding the Coronavirus, as a precaution, we have introduced enhanced prevention measures and cleaning protocols to ensure the highest safety standards. Our actions are consistent with guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), best practices within the hospitality industry and our Corporate risk management team.

The CDC continues to emphasize that, at this time, the Coronavirus poses a low risk of exposure to most people in the U.S. The well-being of our guests and associates is a top priority. While we don’t foresee any issues with Gary Con, we are monitoring the situation very closely and are prepared to take additional steps as new information and best practices emerge.

Steps we have taken to date:
• Educated our managers and associates per guidelines and information provided by the
Centers for Disease Control (CDC) which included:
 What You Need to Know About Coronavirus
 What to Do if You Are Sick with Coronavirus
 Stop The Spread of Germs
 Symptoms of Coronavirus

Contained within this information are reminders for associates on proper hand hygiene,
what the symptoms look like, to stay home if sick and the importance of properly
cleaning high-touch surfaces.

To support the communication of the above information, posters have been placed in all
associate areas.
• Enhanced hotel cleaning guidelines specific to Coronavirus have been created by our
partners at Ecolab which is being used to retrain staff. This includes increasing frequency
with which public areas are cleaned.
• Associates are being retrained on the proper use of personal protective equipment to
include gloves, goggles, and masks.
• Antibacterial soap has been provided in all public area bathrooms and associate locker
rooms and hand sanitizer stations have been placed in public areas.

We hope that the above measures address any concerns regarding the proper handling of the Coronavirus.

Gary Con is about family, friends and fellow game aficionados coming together to celebrate the life and works of Gary Gygax. By taking these reasonable steps we feel confident that Gary Con XII will be a great experience for everyone! We look forward to welcoming you to Gary Con in Lake Geneva in just a few days from now.

State of the Tavern Keeper - Upper Respiratory Infection Day 15

I never thought I'd be typing this 2 weeks after getting my URI diagnosis while enjoying Total Con, but here we are on the 15th day of Con Crud. Ughhh! I'm finally averaging over 4 hours of sleep each night this week - last week was consistently under 3 hours a night. No more snap, crackle pop coming from my lungs, but the wheeze still sneaks in after a couple hours of sleep.

Just as an FYI, I've been a miserable fuck with little energy to do anything other than sit and bing watch on-demand shows. It takes all I have to put together a short podcast and a quick post every day, although I do seem to be getting some energy back over the past few days.

To put thigs into perspective, the last time I left my house was the Monday after the con to see my own doc, who just confirmed what the Urgent Care doc said 2 days prior. If nearly 2 weeks effectively self quarantining sounds like fun, it isnt. That being said, I run short on breath when walking even short distances, so staying home simply makes sense.

This means re-punting Swords & Wizardry Appreciation Day, yet again. I'm going to aim for the weekend of March 28th, 2020, as I strongly suspect next week will continue the slow but steady improvement in my health and energy levels but I literally do not know when I'll be back to 100%. Le sigh...

I've got a number of pending Fireside Chats to schedule for the Tavern Chat Podcast. I don't want to schedule anything until my breathing improves a tad more. Another le sigh...

For those waiting on me to accomplish things, and there are more than a few, I apologize. Apparently, I don't multitask well with being sick.

Tenkar

Kickstarter - Monsters! Monsters rpg & "Toughest Dungeon in the World" solo

For those that somehow don't already know this, I'm a huge Tunnels & Trolls fan. I own original copies of the Tunnels & Trolls 2nd print (Ken's play copy), 4th print, multiple versions of 5e and 5.5e. the tin and cardboard boxes from Fiery Dragon and of course T&T Deluxe. I own first prints of most of the original T&T adventures. Yes, I really enjoy me some T&T.

So it is safe to say I am am excited to see the Monsters! Monsters rpg & "Toughest Dungeon in the World" solo Kickstarter go live and at VERY reasonable backer levels. Both books in PDF for 8 bucks or both books in Print -and shipping free in the US with PDFs for 29 bucks. 37 bucks if you want both books signed by Ken St Andre and Steve Crompton (there are levels between for one book or the other, but trust me, you'll want both). Tell me I don't want the signed leather copy. Sigh. Rach will kill me ;)

In 1976 Ken St Andre, the creator of the 2nd oldest role-playing game, Tunnels & Trolls created a companion game to T&T, called Monsters Monsters! It was first published by Metagaming Concepts and then again by Flying Buffalo in 1979. The game remained unchanged from then until now...   

It's 2020 - Ken St. Andre has worked since the 1970's to make games that are better for the players; for example, the Origins  award-winning Stormbringer for Chaosuim, and Computer Hall of Fame Wasteland for Electronic Arts/Interplay. (It was the first post-apocalyptic rpg.) Plus Deluxe Tunnels & Trolls for Flying Buffalo. Now he  has updated and created a new edition of Monsters! Monsters! that retains much of its original appeal and structure, but with all new art and new options like stunting and monster chaos factor. 

The new M! M! rules also lists 38 monster kindreds you can play, gives you their dice modifiers and now each monster has a special power unique to its kindred. Each monster is described in a separate section. Its also better organized and easier to use. (For example - now the monsters are separated into humanoid and non-humanoid types)  There are two character sheets you can use along with specialized charts that allow you to roll up  various types of Monsters based on many common frpg environments.  And before this Kickstarter is over, we may have some other exciting surprises to add to the book if we reach some of our stretch goals...

In 1980 Judges Guild published "The Toughest Dungeon in the World" a solitaire adventure that was meant to be played with Monsters! Monsters! or Tunnels & Trolls. Since then several new editions of T&T have come out and Ken St Andre was inducted into the Origins Hall of Fame. Ken is one of the last standing creators of the first generation of role-playing game designers and is still working on the classic games he created.  Now, 40 years later, Ken has updated and enhanced this classic adventure and the Monsters Monsters Rules. Artists Phil Longmeier and Steve Crompton have enhanced it with new illustrations and graphics more suitable for a monster-mash solo adventure. This new edition is at least 44 pages long and will keep any player busy for a lot of adventure in caverns and tunnels deep below Trollworld. The Lord of Shadows dwells in the depths - can you avoid his power or will you be corrupted by it?  One other thing we should add is that you can play this solo with the Tunnels &Trolls rules or the Monsters! Monsters! rules, so you don't have to learn a whole new rpg to play.  

Project status: Just to let you all know - these books are DONE.  The rules are written, the art is finished and the layout is complete.  We will be able to send this to the printers a few weeks after this Kickstarter is funded.  All we need to know is how many of each book to print. We also want to add the backers' who paid to have their names listed in the book our Monster Benefactor thank you section.  This Kickstarter is open to shipping anywhere in the USA.  (We will soon have an update that details how overseas fans will be able to order as well.) 

Kickstarter - Tiny Cthulhu

Cosmic Horror meets the minimalist TinyD6 RPG system in Tiny Cthulhu!

I really enjoy the TinyD6 system. Heck, it's one of the few "modern" systems that I pretty much grocked with little difficulty. Then there is Cthulhu. A very popular setting, I do believe Evil Hat has done a Kickstarter for a FATE driven Cthulhu RPG. Screw FATE - that system really makes no sense to me ;)

Gallant Knight Games is bringing us a TinyD6 Cthulhu RPG via Kickstarter. I'm over it like game designers on public domain horror resources ;)

I guess I'm adding to my TinyD6 collection...

15 bucks for the PDF. 40 bucks for SC Print plus PDF. 60 bucks for SC Print, PDF, Tiny Cthulhu d6 and a GM Screen. Need I say at what level I'm backing?

Using the rules in this book, you'll be able to play investigators, doomed heroes, and classic cosmic horror characters of all types, from scientists and librarians, to WWI veterans, to mysterious guardians defending the world from the dark powers of cthonic entities!

Character creation is simple, fast, and exciting. You pick your character archetype based on the exciting stories your Game Master is going to tell, you pick a few Traits that each grant a single benefit, and you're done! 

Tiny Cthulhu features a myrid of settings set throughout the world and history, ranging from prehistory to the Bronze Age,  Age of Sail, World War 1, modern day, as well as fantasy, superheroes and the science fiction future! 

You can survive cosmic horror in any time or place! (Lucky you!) 

Additionally, each setting will have appendices that details how you can integrate other TinyD6 books like Tiny Dungeon 2e, Tiny Supers, and Tiny Frontiers: Revised with Tiny Cthulhu to create robust and unique experiences

Kickstarter - Midderlands 5e

If you are a regular reader of The Tavern, you've seen me talk about the Midderlands before. It's Glynn Seal's "weird fantasy" setting and was written with the OSR in mind. This time around the Midderlands are getting the 5e treatment, and I couldn't be happier.

Fifth Edition needs a setting that breaks the mold and yet feels familiar, and the Midderlands 5e Kickstarter will do just that. There's a whole world of future Midderlands fans that will be introduced to Glynn's work through this Kickstarter and I couldn't be happier.

This Kickstarter is being run by Frog Gd Games under its Necromancer Games subsidiary label.

20 bucks for the PDF, for bucks (plus shipping) for the Print plus PDF.

The Midderlands 5e
Necromancer Games is proud to team up with Glynn Seal to bring the ENnie Award winning Swords & Wizardry weird fantasy setting, the Midderlands, to Fifth Edition. This strange and wondrous setting is edgy and twisted and will make a perfect addition for those looking for something new and challenging for their home campaigns. The Fifth Edition version comes with a ton of new art, a fresh layout, and updated maps.  It still has all the green style of the original! 

Words from the Author 

The Midderlands exists because of a series of fortunate thoughts. 

It was mid-late 2016 and often I would go around to my partner’s house on the evenings and whilst she sat on the sofa watching the television, I doodled the heads of strange creatures in side profile. 

I had no plan for these doodles, but I had a sketchbook and I wanted to fill quite a lot of it. As I doodled, I imagined that these creatures might live in the surrounding lands where I lived. That gave them much more life. I then thought I cou 

ld create a book of creatures with a little about where they live and what they do.
Then I figured that rather than living in the land where I do now, why not an alternate version of where I live. It would be a bit weirder, darker, gloomier. I wanted something that made the land the way it did. That’s when Gloomium became a thing. 

The locations would be inspired by the real world, but twisted and green-tinged, so I needed a map. I made an alternative version and that’s when I decided this was a game setting. 

------- 

The creation of the initial setting book for old school games – the 5E version of which is being crowdfunded here – spawned another book which covered the rest of the United Kingdom, and then a further book which focused on the setting’s version of London, Great Lunden. 

I have been amazed with its success and wanted to bring a version of the original to the 5E audience, so they too could enjoy wandering its twisted locales and encounter its unusual creatures. I just wasn’t sure how to achieve it. 

Luckily, the kindly amphibians at Necromancer Games came to the rescue and we are now in a great position to bring a new version of the setting to you. My hands will be heavily involved in new and updated artwork and maps and a new layout. 

This is going to be exciting and you won’t want to miss out.
—Glynn 

Kickstarter - Ascendant (Superhero RPG)

A new superpowered role-playing game of infinite possibilities.

I've always had mixed feelings about superhero RPGs. Usually, they were too many dice (Champions) or had random powers (V&V). TSR's Marvel Superheros probably hit the sweet spot, and as much as I thought I wouldn't like the color-coded charts, they grew on me and became second nature.

Yesterday, Autarch launched a superhero RPG Kickstarter - Ascendant - and it has its own color-coded chart. Heck, they forwarded me a PDF of the rules - when I'm healthy I'll delve into them - but at first glance, they look solid.

20 bucks for the PDF, 40 for POD w/ PDF, 60 for the limited HC w/PDF.

Deal of the Day - Magical Industrial Revolution (OSR)

There has simply been a huge OSR presence in the recent Deal of the Day promotions over at DTRPG. Today is no different. Well, Magical Industrial Revolution is OSR but it IS different ;)

Normally 15 bucks in PDF, until tomorrow morning Magical Industrial Revolution is 9 bucks.

This book is about Atlantis before the tide turned. It’s about Hyperborea before it vanished between dimensions. It’s about Nu Yark Citee before the Mushroom Bombs hit. 

It’s a setting guide to the greatest and most ambitious city in the world: Endon. It’s about a world slowly tipping onto its side, and all the interesting things that begin to slide at the start of a revolution. It’s about people with grand dreams pushing the boundaries of the possible, and the strange machines and devices they create along the way. 

But mostly, it’s about magic. 

Magical Industrial Revolution: A Pre-Apocalyptic Setting Guide contains a wealth of information to supplement Role Playing Games, including: 

• Maps, People, Buildings, Dungeons, Factions, and Villains of Endon
• Eight Pre-Apocalyptic Innovations
• Hundreds of Magic Items and Spells
• Rules for Magical Industry
• Useful Tools for Urban Campaigns
• Horrible Monsters and Nightmarish Creatures
• And much, much more. 

By Skerples, the author of the CoinsandScrolls blog, Tomb of the Serpent Kings, Kidnap the Archpriest, Epochrypha, and Magical Murder Mansion. Art by Jonathan Newell, Logan Stahl, & Luka Rejec. Editing, layout, and incalculably valuable assistance by David Shugars. Additional editing by Fiona Geist. 

Three very useful pamphlets featuring magical industrial tips, hanging ballads, and local attractions are provided along with the 156 page book. The PDF is fully optimized and bookmarked.

That is an affiliate link above. Keep your bartender in fresh beer by using The Tavern's affiliate links.

Kickstarter - Face Folio (100 Fantasy Portraits for Tabletop Role-playing Games)

When it comes to RPG material that really catches my attention, inspirational releases grab my attention more often than anything else. I prefer stuff that enhances my campaign - so something like the Face Folio Kickstarter is perfect for my needs.

So, what do you get with Face Folio?

Face Folio is a simple project with a simple goal: to provide 100 fantasy portraits for use in your tabletop role-playing games. Referees are always on the lookout for NPC faces to show their players and players are always looking for portraits for their character sheets. This project aims to meet that need. 

The portraits will be organized into the following sets: 

• Human NPCs/PCs
• Dragon-blood
• Dwarf
• Elf 
• Gnome
• Halfling 
• Orc-blood
• Demon-blood 
• Human nobles
• Human peasants and towns folk 

Each set will contain ten portraits, half male and half female. With the exception of the human nobles and peasants, the portraits will be a spread of adventuring classes. 

The Zine will have a simple elegant layout with 10 portraits per two-page spread, and organized in the above groups. There will be no blocks of text and no fluff to get in the way. That way this book can be used right at the table, as and when needed, for example when the referee suddenly needs an NPC to drop into the game.  

We are using a single artist to do all the artwork. This is because MARCINs is a wonderfully talented artist and because we want there to be a coherent and unified style to the whole project.

It's about 7 bucks in PDF, Print plus PDF is about 12 bucks shipped. I'm in for a print copy.

Deal of the Day - Curse of Mistwood (DCC RPG)

Wow, it been a busy couple of days for the OSR when it comes to DTRPG's Deal of the Day promotion. Today it is the Curse of Mistwood for the DCC RPG. Normally 12.99 in PDF, until tomorrow morning Curse of Mistwood is on sale for 5.20

Curse of Mistwood is the second adventure in the Mistwood Series. It can be played as a continuation of The Trolls of Mistwood or as a standalone adventure. With 70 pages of adventure and over 20 pages of patrons, spells and magic items, Curse of Mistwood has enough material to be its own campaign setting. 

A dark power has stirred in Mistwood. An evil so great that not only is the quiet waterside village at risk but perhaps the world itself. Once more adventurers must heed the call to arms, risking everything to thwart the plans of a much greater foe. Will the adventurers have the courage to seek the source of Mistwood's woes, or will they be consumed trying? 

Designed for adventurers from 4th to 6th level, Curse of Mistwood will challenge higher level characters and rack up the body count for larger, less experienced groups.
Features: 

• Mystery and excitement compatible with Goodman Games Dungeon Crawl Classics RPG but easily converted to other systems
• 100 pages of cunning crones, eerie swamps, shadowy villains and a visit to another world
• Beautifully rendered isometric maps by Brian Van Hunsel and Del Teigeler
• New magic items and curses to share amongst your players
• Detailed history and description of Mistwood and the surrounding region

Don't forget your change of pants!

Yep, that is an affiliate link above. Affiliate links keep your bartender in cold beer and chips ;) 

Deal of the Day - Dead In The Water (MCC RPG)

Tim Snider. The man, the myth, the amazing GM. Time Master, Toon, Mutant Future and more - no system will lay abandoned in his hands. Or something like that. Tim is, quite simply, "good folk" and I like to support good folk. Besides, Tim was my wife Rachel's first GM. :)

Today's Deal of the Day is Dead in the Water, a funnel for the Mutant Crawl Classics RPG by none other than Tim Snider. Normally 6.99 in PDF, until tomorrow morning you can get it for 3.49. Now THAT is a deal ;)

Mindless, water-logged abominations have been coming ashore, attacking fishing villages along the coast of The Rainbow Sea, then dragging their victims off to a watery doom. Your ragtag party of post-apocalyptic Seekers have been tasked with stopping the invasion. Perhaps the answer can be found on the legendary Island of Fire. 

Dead In The Water is a beginning funnel adventure for 12 to 16 0-level Seekers. This product is compatible with the Mutant Crawl Classics Role-Playing Game (MCC RPG).

Deal of the Day - Winter's Daughter (Old-School Version)

I apologize for not getting to this earlier in the day.

Winter's Daughter by Necrotic Gnome is today's deal of the day. Normally 8.50 for the PDF, through tomorrow morning it is 4.25.

The tomb of an ancient hero, lost in the tangled depths of the woods. A ring of standing stones, guarded by the sinister Drune cult. A fairy princess who watches with ageless patience from beyond the veil of the mortal. A forgotten treasure that holds the key to her heart. 

Winter's Daughter is a romantic fairy-tale dungeon adventure set in the creepy old forest of Dolmenwood. 

• Suitable for characters of 1st to 3rd level.
• Encompasses woodland, tomb, and fairy otherworld—all in one handy package!
• Keyed in a quick-reference, bullet point format.
• Statted for Old-School Essentials (B/X), usable with any vintage adventure game.
• Illustrated by the otherworldly Mish Scott.
• Cartography by the mycotic Karl Stjernberg.

Kickstarter - Swords & Wizardry Dark: A Grim Set of Optional Rules

optional rules for Swords & Wizardry and other OSR RPGS

I'm sure I'm missing tons of stuff at the moment. This upper respiratory infection makes me feel like I'm always catching up, as I'm always out of breath. That being said, I almost overlooked the Swords & Wizardry Dark: A Grim Set of Optional Rules Kickstarter. I'm usually on top of this stuff. How could I nearly miss a Swords & Wizardry related Kickstarter?

So, what do you get in this zine?

A black and white zine with optional rules to add to your S&W game. Some rules are inspired by DCC, AD&D, The Black Hack, Sharp Swords & Sinister Spells and more. THIS IS NOT A COMPLETE GAME, YOU MUST HAVE A COPY OF SWORDS & WIZARDRY by Frog God Games or other OSR GAME TO USE THIS ZINE. 

VOL 1 KS edition will be 5.5"x 8" printed in a high quality 130lb Cover and 100lb paper. - What this means is that it will hold up for a long time and fit nicely with your new S&W Box Set! See the Frog God Kickstarter HERE 

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/froggodgames/swords-and-wizardry-limited-and-collectors-edition-box-sets 

New magic rules- say goodbye to vancian magic

New Regional Backgrounds-no Demi Humans in Dark

Rules for The Dark - dealing with stress and peril while adventuring

New Equipment Rules - less bookkeeping = faster play

Faster Monster Rules - keep the action fast
and More!!! 

PLUS: A short adventure in a minimalist layout, because you all know how to run games, you don't need a bunch of words on a page to do it. (My experience is that OSR GM's are generally pretty well experienced) 

The zine will be in a modern "Dash Board" like layout, making the rules easy to find and read while at the table.

Coming Soon - The Unearthed Arcana Podcast (AD&D 1e)

I have to say, I love the art for the upcoming Unearthed Arcana Podcast :)

From left to right - Myself, Vince Florio and Ronald Corn.

We were going to get together and discuss the show's direction and the first episode later this week, but my URI has caused us to punt that till next week. Yep, blame me for any delays :(

Here's the URL: https://anchor.fm/unearthedarcana

Now for me to start feeling better so I can put my energy where it belongs. Getting short of breath going from one end of the house to the other is not high energy...

edit: for those wondering why I was reading through old Dragon issues for AD&D articles...

State of the Tavern Keeper - I Need a Scroll Protection from URI

So, there I was in my GP's office, shortly after noon, telling him my trials and tribulations and my weekend trip to Urgent Care but 5 minutes from the TotalCon venue - and he already had the faxed paperwork in my folder.

"K, let me listen to your lungs. Yep, there is fluid there, but less than was indicated on Saturday. Shortness of breath, you say? Yep, goes along with an Upper Respiratory Infection. It's viral, so no prescription meds. Just keep with the original prescribed over the counter recommendations. Get plenty of rest and fluids. Time is your friend."

Then he offered me a note for work before remembering that I'm retired ;)

What does this mean for all things Tavern?

I was hoping to host this year's Swords & Wizardry Appreciation Day this Saturday. It ain't happening. We are punting to March 14th. Sorry about that, but it gives everyone more time to prepare and gives me time to heal.

The Tavern Chat Podcast. I'll need voicemails to get me through the next few days/week maybe. Old topics, new topics - doesn't matter - I need them all. Less talking I need to do, the more likely we keep the daily podcast from skipping a day here and there over this.

‪(347) 509-5168‬ is the Google Number for voicemails.

Want to leave a voicemail via Anchor? If you have the app on your phone, just use that or, use your computer. The link is here: https://anchor.fm/tavernchat

Blog posting shouldn't be impaired but you never know...

Thanks for reading :)

I Thought I Beat Con Crud, but Con Crud Came Back to Beat on Me

I thought I was beating Con Crud, but Con Crud came back and beat me upside the head, and in the upper chest.

To my GP at noon.

I'll update when there is an update to be had.

TotalCon Day Three - Strike of the Crud

I woke up at 630 in the morning with a death rattle in my chest. Uggh!

I do 4 to 5 conventions a year and this is the first time con crud has struck AT the convention, but it is a horrible year for the flu. Not that I have the flu, but you know what I mean.

I was told at Urgent Care that the URI is likely the result of seasonal allergies. Another uggh!

I have a break from 3 to 7 and run a game of SWL at 7pm. Hopefully, I've got a second wind (and a nice nap) for the game.

Kickstarter -Artifices, Deceptions & Dilemmas (Courtney)

Sometimes, while at a convention (currently Total Con), I find it difficult to stay current with outside events. I'm happy to say I'm pretty much on time with my coverage of Courtney's second Kickstarter - Artifices, Deceptions & Dilemmas. If you don't know Courtney, he is a skilled and prolific creator of RPG content. While solidly rooted in old school gaming, his works are generally system agnostic and suitable right through to Pathfinder and 5e, if one were to go such a route.

So, what is Artifices, Deceptions & Dilemmas?

What's the difference between a room and a chamber? What's the difference between a mausoleum, a sepulcher, and a crypt? Would disarming traps be more exciting if you understood how those releases, springs, and snares worked?  

Do you think it would be exciting if a classic group of fantasy artists got together and drew pictures of all these artifices, deceptions, and dilemmas for you to use as a reference at your table with your group?

I did. - Courtney

1 buck for access to a digital draft copy of the book. Final digital and draft copy is 10 bucks. 20 bucks adds an at-cost softcover book to the mix.

Simply put, Courtney does good shit. You won't regret backing Artifices, Deceptions & Dilemmas.

Total Con Day One - The Arrival

Rach and I actually arrived yesterday afternoon. Uneventful ride up from NYC. I must say, heated seats take some of the sting out of lower back pain ;)

It has been s slow burn since early last night, with Frogs and others friends arriving and settling down at the hotel bar. Yep, Total Coneven has its own beer this year. It’s a Belgian White with a light hint of raspberry. Very cool. I’m keeping the can ;)

As usual, working the Frog God booth. Running SWL tomorrow and Saturday. Planning to close down the hotel bar each night.

Huzzah!

Judges Guild - A Private Message from Bob II - Regarding Recent Accusations - to Help People Better Understand the Personal Views of the Owner

Link is valid as of this posting (gone now)
Note - comments at the link have been pruned of comments that Bo II sees as insulting.


Regarding Recent Accusations - to Help People Better Understand the Personal Views of the Owner:

I Have Traditional Christian values. My family crest attests to 3 European Crusades, and I regard that as a calling. That means I am pro-life, anti-gay, and against self-mutilation.
I believe we are all God's Children, and hold a compassion for everyone.
I am not their judge, and judging the morals of others is Not my job.
I have my Views and unless asked, or in my home, I keep them to myself.
I keep my personal views out of my professional life.
I respect people based on their behavior, not what they are, or think they are.
That could be why people can be surprised or offended.
In my opinion, they cannot expect everyone to agree with them.
Social Morals do not change overnight, and progressives must not expect them to.
I do not expect to change the view or other, and I do not try because that is not my job.
I believe in Free Speach: I understand that being offended comes with that freedom.
I apply the Golden Rule, and treat others as I would wish to be treated.
My family fought the Revolution; the two Rutledges who drafted and Signed the Constitution
and Delcaration of Independence, so I do take American Politics personally.
Being a peace-loving person, I do not own a gun, but I would never give up my right to get one.
I stand against corruption in high places and No Country should be above question, or be feeding off ours.
Politically, I am an Independent Libertarian. I Voted for Perot, and Paul, but do support what Trump has managed to do for America, despite being labeled Hitler.
I do believe the Media is Controlled in America by Leftists and Zionists, but I do not Hate them. I hate what they do.
I do have relatives and friends in Government with Top Secret Clearances.
Prior to 9/11 I also did some private work for the Government, no tin-foil here. Today's Conspiracy often proves to be Tomorrow's Truth. Mud is everywhere, and they revel in getting us to throw it on each other.
I have never been one to chase money: I lost my belongings in an explosion in 1974 at age 12, so what is dear to me hold sentimental value, not material. I have been homeless before, and slept nights in cornfields and under bridges, but never begged or stole to feed myself. I know what being down is like and exhibit a given nature because of that experience.
I am not interested in money and my intention here should not be construed that way. I consider myself an artist by nature.
My goal here has always been to keep the works of the Guild alive and in reach of the public, because I consider those I grew up with to be family. If you have helped me, I consider you like a brother. We will not always get along, but I will love you regardless, because you helped me once.
I live a very humble personal life on very little income.
Am I a perfect Person? No, but I am the first to admit it. I do not Lord over others, anywhere.
I raised 6 Children with those values, but as they are now adults, I respect their choosing their own way.
I think All Paths Lead eventually to God, and there is good to be found in All People and Religions, I have studied several of them.

I have been accused of being a Racist. I am not. I have made and keep friends of all races.
I am not pure white; being part Cherokee, Dutch, and Romanian. My family came to America in 1643,
and by 1665 owned Slaves, sold to us by Jewish Slave Merchants. I personally would not own
anyone... All God's Children.
When they first started bussing blacks to my school in the 60's, two were introduced to my class, Renee and Tony. I was the first white boy to make friends with Tony, and we are still friends to this day. We shared Elementary and High School years together. He knows I do not hate blacks, but knows I am just as capable of racial humor as he is.

My ancestors' slave-ownership eventually surfaced in my life. I was contacted by a black female Bledsoe seeking history of her ancestry. I provided her with what documents I had, wills and deeds bearing the names of her forefathers.
She lives in Texas, where following the Civil War, a group of my relatives migrated, wishing to hold the investment held in their slaves. It was personally chilling for me to read in those documents where the daughters of one slave was to be given to one, and the sons of the same slave be given to another
family member... the idea that children be separated so, as was common then, bothered me a lot because I have 6 children on my own. The woman informed me that the reason they kept our family name was because my ancestors treated them well, and with kindness, allowing them to receive Christian learning. Do I feel shame for the actions of my ancestors? No. My ancestors walked in a different time.
Do I feel a kinship with the Black Bledsoes? Yes. We share a common bond, of having walked together in that time. My home is open to them, as it is to all people. That does not sound very racist.

I have been also accused here of being Anti-Semitic. The answer to this is more complex because it addresses both Race and Religion. As for Race, I have and keep friends who are Jewish; as I stated, we are All Children of God, but I am not a Zionist, nor do I believe they are any better than anyone else. I have worked for Jewish Causes several times, and donate yearly to MDA, which benefits Ashkenazim Jews. As for the religious aspect, I do not believe in Judaeo-Christianity.
As I said, I am a Traditional Christian, therefore I embrace one or the other. My views do not come from studying the Scriptures from Hebrew, but from the original Aramaic. I do not believe Christ was a Jew, but I do not expect
others to hold that opinion. I suggest they study the Books of Moses in Aramaic, as it was the language of Christ, and would give them a different perspective. I will always oppose things which to me seem anti-Christian, but I have friends of many faiths, and Love them all as brothers. I do not try to change them.

I state these things with a sincere heart, and know that in today's world it is easy to label and pigeon-hole people. I hold no grudges and wish to be friends with everyone. I ask for your understanding, but not for your forgiveness. I am truly sorry for offending anyone, as I have never tried to single any individual out. I will in future try to be more sensitive, but in this social climate I walk on a lot of eggshells. The living DNA in me scaled walls of castles with an axe, fired muskets against the King's Army, and fought in most every war America has ever had. I am a Proud Boomer, and I do hold my tongue more that one thinks.

Sincerely - Bob Bledsaw II

edit - the following was sent by a community member:

Goodman Games - NEW Official Written Statement re: Judges Guild

Link here

Following up on our recent video, this statement is to confirm the following points regarding Goodman Games and our former relationship with Judges Guild.  

To start with, we are disgusted and disheartened by the antisemitism, bigotry, and racism exhibited by the current owners of Judges Guild.  

Goodman Games has stopped selling our previous Judges Guild products through all distribution channels.  

Judges Guild will no longer receive income from Goodman Games products now that sales of their titles have ceased.  

We have one remaining product to release, which is a collector’s edition focused on the works of Jennell Jaquays. Jennell’s story is one quite different from the views espoused by Bob Bledsaw Jr. Judges Guild and Bob Bledsaw Jr. have agreed to receive no royalties of any kind from this title. To say it bluntly: Bob Bledsaw Jr. and Judges Guild will not profit from the Judges Guild Deluxe Collector’s Edition Vol. 2 focused on the works of Jennell Jaquays. Goodman Games will match 20% of the proceeds of this title with donations: 10% to the Anti Defamation League and 10% to GLAAD. The funds that would have been used for a Judges Guild licensing fee will be included in this donation, as requested by Bob Bledsaw Jr.  

After this final volume, we have no plans to release future Judges Guild titles.  

We are deeply saddened and frankly horrified by the views espoused by Bob Bledsaw Jr. 

It answers the questions I had from yesterday's video.

Goodman Games makes an Official Statement re: Judges Guild / Bob Bledsaw II

The official statement is itself a video. Watch the video, then read my observations below it. It is less than 7 minutes long.

You DON'T start your official statement saying you are making the statement because "we need to get out in front of that drama."

I felt it was more of an attempt to protect their licensed project that is in the works than to make a true statement about the current situation with Bob Bledsaw II.

There is no statement regarding any possible future projects licensed from Judges Guild, nor does it mention current properties licensed from Judges Guild and their future.

Jennell and Godman were going to donate 20% of their KS monies to charity. They approached Bob II and through no suggestion from them, he offered to donate all royalties that Judges Guild would receive. Bob's donation does NOT increase the 20% donation, so more monies for Jennell and Goodman and NO MONIES towards the CSIO Kickstarter. Bob II has said in past comment all monies coming into Judges Guild from royalties and PDF sales would go towards making CSIO backers whole.

Compared to other publisher statements regarding Judges Guild, I find it lacking.

Did I mention a small thing about Kickstarter and charities?

Time for Me to Brush Up on My AD&D 1e Knowledge

It looks like I'll need to brush up on my Advanced Dungeons & Dragons 1e knowledge, not just the rules but the history and evolution.

Which is why I am breaking out my copy of the Dragon Magazine Archive. I didn't realize how important this would be for me on a personal level when I bought it back when it was released back in 1999. Apparently, I've lost the DM utility disk over the years. Doubt it would work on my Mac in any case ;)

Before the internet and social media became what they are now, the best way to get a feeling for the pulse of anything was magazines and the like. Dragon issues from the bast should give a decent view of the "inside baseball" of what became AD&D 1e.

Going to be some fun times :)

Deal of the Day - Dark Streets & Darker Secrets

Today's Deal of the day at DriveThruRPG is Dark Streets & Darker Secrets. While not strictly "old school" in nature, it certainly has that feel. Without much work, you could probably emulate the Dresden setting or World of Darkness. For 2 bucks (normally 9.99), you really are getting a modern age horror RPG bargain.

Dark Streets & Darker Secrets is a Street & Sorcery Rules Light Role-Playing Game with an Old School spirit, just like its predecessors: Sharp Swords & Sinister Spells and Solar Blades & Cosmic Spells. 

It’s a game about modern adventures in the world we live today, only with a layer of supernatural weirdness and horror. Characters are people who have found out about the mysteries and horrors that exist in the world and have decided to do something about it, be it battle it, join it, or simply explore its possibilities in any way they see fit. They will battle evil cultists, corrupted ghosts, bloodsucking vampires, and frenzied werewolves, or maybe they will be the horrors of others. This edition of the game assumes the reader knows the principles of what role-playing games are and how they are played. 

What will you get with this book? Not only you will get a complete game system for urban fantasy, action horror and street and sorcery stories, you will also find tools and generators to create cities, neighborhoods, organizations, factions, NPS, monsters, ancient and sinister artifacts, complete adventures, which can all be of great help to inspire Referees of all modern games! 

So grab your leather jacket, a baseball bat and whatever you can get your hands on to put the bad monsters to rest and come explore these dark streets and unveil these darker secrets.

Yep, that is an affiliate link above. Affiliate links keep the beer cold and the taps flowing here at The Tavern.

Kickstarter - Valor Knights: The Electrocube War (ZineQuest 2)

A complete roleplaying-game-in-a-zine that is more than meets the eye by Eric Bloat and Phil Stone.

Ah, Transformers. I was a bit too old for it when it released in 1984, just starting my senior year of High School, but that didn't stop me from watching it upon getting home from school. I never was interested in the toy line, but I did enjoy the caroons.

As an RPG? Shjit, I might just need Valor Knights: The Electrocube War. 5 bucks for the PDF, 15 for the Print plus PDF.

Valor Knights is a complete RPG in a zine format.  VK uses a hybrid combination of The Black Hack by David Black and The Blackest of Deaths Game System by Eric Bloat.  Its fast, loose and a ton of fun to play; A perfect game to emulate the over the top 80s cartoon tropes and adventures that we remember and love.

Rules included:

• Core Mechanic
• Hindrance & Benefit
• Advantage & Disadvantage
• Attributes (Strength, Intelligence, Wisdom, Dexterity, Constitution and Charisma) 
• Determining Attributes, Luck
• Hit Points, Hit Dice, Healing and Death
• Evade & Armor Points, Damage Points
• Leveling Up
• Everything in Turn, Initiative, Time & Turns
• Movement & Distances (Close, Near, Far, Distant)
• Shifting
• Character Creation
• Character Classes (Leader, Warrior, Support, Mini-Bot)
• Weapons & Equipment
• Valor Knights vs Chaos Lords

Announcements Regarding Judges Guild / Bob Bledsaw JR from Various Publishers and Conventions

FYI, Judges Guild is no longer available for sale at DrveThruRPG. I have not seen an official announcement from OneBookShelf nor Judges Guild explaining why the products were removed.

NTRPG Con That I even have to make a public statement about this is uncomfortable. But I have been contacted by a few regular attendees asking about Bob Bledsaw Jr. and the statements that came to light this week on his social media pages. No, he will not be asked back to the con nor allowed to attend. While Doug and I foster an inclusive environment, believe in free speech, and champion gaming with all other gamers over political litmus tests, this is a step too far. Bob's statements weren't another political view. They were the kind of statements that show extreme ignorance at best and promulgation of evil at worst. Doug and I both were shocked by Bob's comments and taken by surprise....we've talked with him for years and never had a clue. In fact in person he seemed like a nice guy. We never suspected he held opinions and beliefs that are antithesis to what brings us to the gaming table to share adventures and companionship at cons, nor that he would state them so publicly. Stated bluntly, if you have views like Bobs and feel the need to share them socially, please don’t attend NTRPG con. 

Doug and I aren't looking for kudos or backpats for this, this is pretty much Being a Human 101. If you want to thank us, please spread the word that Judges Guild products and Bob Bledsaw Sr shouldn't be held responsible for Bob Jrs words, and people should continue to enjoy the great gaming products JG gave us over the years. Good people like Jennell Jaquays and Paul Elkmann own some of their own JG material they worked on and shouldn't have to suffer guilt by association. Support them and other creators like Robert Conley who have contributed to the mythos over the years. And thanks for attending the con for 11 years and trusting us enough to provide a safe enough con that you share this experience with your kids and sometimes grandkids. Gaming is something that brings us together, in good and bad times, and we love seeing all of you every year. Be safe and be good to each other. Michael Badoloto - NTRPG https://www.facebook.com/groups/310434204630/ 

The Secrets of Blackmoor Team Due to recent events that have come to our attention, there will be changes in the Tonisborg Dungeon book. 

We had initially reached out to Bob Bledsaw and Judges Guild to partner on the book via artwork and branding. At the time, we wanted to ally ourselves with a company and artist that would help boost visibility to Blackmoor fans. We also felt the book should be in the same category as Dave Arneson's First Fantasy Campaign, which was produced by Judges Guild way back in 1977. However, due to a series of entirely unacceptable comments made by Bob Bledsaw Jr. and Bob Bledsaw III on social media, we can't continue a business relationship with the Bledsaw family or Judges Guild.  

We are still very much dedicated to producing the Tonisborg Dungeon book. The manuscript is full of fun OSR material for new and old referees, and the dungeon itself deserves to be in print for everyone to enjoy. To this end, we will be dropping the Judges Guild name from the publication and replace the Bledsaw artwork with works by other artists before going to press. 

Additionally, we are aware that we've delayed delivery on your Kickstarter rewards way too long. On our end, it's been an issue of trying to cut shipping costs and waiting with crossed fingers for everything made by our vendors to arrive. We're just going to cut to the chase today and ship what we have (DVD's, Blu rays, T-shirts, and Dice Bags).
We want to hear from you, our backers, on how you feel about the changes to the Tonisborg book. Please respond here, or send us a message privately.
Thank you, The Secrets of Blackmoor Team https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/secretsofblackmoor/secrets-of-blackmoor-the-true-history-of-dungeons/posts/2756098

Frog God Games Recently the owner of Judges Guild made a series of racist and anti-semitic posts on Facebook. We will not reproduce them here; they are shown on Rob Conley's Bat in the Attic blog, and we are convinced of their authenticity. Rob wrote his post because, as a licensee of Judges Guild property, he felt he needed to state clearly that he would not be doing business with Judges Guild in the future. We have also licensed property from Judges Guild in the past, and we are seconding Rob's example by cutting off all future business with Judges Guild. The posts made on Facebook were completely unacceptable.     https://www.facebook.com/frog.god.games/                                    

Bat in the Attic - Rob Conley Concerning Judges Guild

I use facebook to keep in contact with various individuals including Robert Bledsaw II, the owner of the Judges Guild IP and the son of one of the company's founders.

Saturday evening, I noticed the following post:

Read the caption above the picture to see the issue. This is unacceptable. 

Sunday evening, I called Robert Bledsaw II and discussed the issue. I notified him that I will no longer be doing future Judges' Guild projects and will only continue to sell what I have currently listed.  I stated that I will be calling the other Judges Guild licensee and inform them of the situation and of my decision. 

I was not planning making any public announcements. Given the mob mentality I have seen emerge, I was not comfortable in making a public statement. 

However, because I was calling several people who are immediately affected by this situation, the odds of a public post were high. With issues like these, one has to follow the dictates of their conscience. It has gone public hence this post explaining what happened and why. 

In addition to the above post, I noticed shortly before the call the following post:

The video is of Christian Bale dropping the card and looking disappointed. 

This cemented my decision that I can no longer be in a future business relationship with Judges Guild. Then later this post was pointed out to me:

This too, I consider unacceptable. 

For now, I will keep up my Judges Guild related products up for sale. I currently have a unique situation in regards to the royalties I pay. Given the state of the Kickstarter finances, Robert Bledsaw II suspended the royalty payments in lieu of paying me for finishing the last nine maps. This has been going on since November of 2017 when I released the CSIO map. Since then, all revenue after taxes and expenses have gone to me. This will not last indefinitely, at which point I will have to revisit having these products listed based on how things have progressed. I will make an announcement accordingly. 

Expect a post outlining my future plans for Bat in the Attic Games. In a nutshell, I wasn't expecting to have a license to Judges Guild IP ten years ago and was proceeding on that basis for what became the Majestic Wilderlands supplement. Then an opportunity came up after I finished working on the map for City State of the Sea Kings, and as a result I secured a license. 

Last Word

To those of you familiar with my published writing: I try to follow a philosophy of less is more. So is it the same in the case of my response. I don't need to explain the ills caused by generations of bigotry and prejudice. It is just wrong, and it is unacceptable.

http://batintheattic.blogspot.com/2020/02/concerning-judges-guild.html

Kickstarter - Beak, Feather, & Bone: A Map-Labeling RPG (ZineQuest2)

A competitive map-labeling RPG and worldbuilding tool.

It's rare that I look at a Kickstarter and say: "Wow, this is really unique and interesting." Beak, Feather, & Bone is one of those rare Kickstarters. 5 bucks for the PDF, 10 bucks for print plus PDF.

Here, I'll let the KS page explain:

Beak, Feather, & Bone is a collaborative worldbuilding tool as well as a competitive map-labeling RPG. Starting with an unlabeled city map, players are assigned community roles before taking turns claiming and describing locations. Players draw from a standard 52-card deck to determine a building's purpose and then describe its beak (reputation), feather (appearance), and bone (interior). As buildings are claimed, a narrative for the town and its inhabitants emerges, including major NPCs and shifting power-dynamics.  

Inspired by map-making games like Avery Adler's A Quiet Year and archetype-focused RPG systems like Meguey & Vincent Baker's Powered by the Apocalypse, Beak, Feather, & Bone is a zine-length game including rules of play, 11 community roles illustrated by Austin Breed, a map by Jonathan Yee, and optional lore & GM tips for running games in a city populated entirely by ravenfolk (or kenku, tengu, etc).  

While default play is lightly competitive, rules variants for solo, cooperative, and character-focused play are included as well. Similarly, while the illustrations and GM notes provided will help inspire a ravenfolk city, the beak/feather/bone labeling system can be used with any map, game genre, or populace.

Kickstarter - The Bone Age - Weird School RPG [Zine Quest]

Tabletop RPG of stone age people fighting off Invaders from outer space, Turtle-Apes and Ape-Turtles.

Back to our regularly scheduled posting :)

I would back The Bone Age - Weird School RPG Kickstarter for the art alone. The fact that the setting looks to be a blast is simply icing on the cake.

8 bucks in PDF, 18 bucks Print plus PDF shipped in the US.

The Bone Age is an old-school RPG of neolithic-era tribes struggling against the sudden arrival of bug-eyed aliens. You play a Tuzanian, a tribe of jungle-dwelling, vine-swinging, pterodactyl-riding, bone-wielding savages. Radiation leaked from the Invaders' crashed flying saucers spreads on winds of purple, blue, and white, mutating the land and its inhabitants. Meanwhile, a race of turtle-apes and ape-turtles sleeping in stasis beneath the surface awoke...1,000,000 years later than planned. And they were not impressed by the native population – or the alien Invaders. 

The Bone Age will be a 48+ page saddled stitched book with illustrations by the incomparable Jack Woiak.

The Bone Age isn't based on a specific OSR system, but comparisons can be drawn to Swords & Wizardry, Labyrinth Lord, Lamentations of the Flame Princess, and Dungeon Crawl Classics. The base mechanic uses a d20 where higher rolls are better than low rolls, and works in a similar fashion to the way saving throws and attacks work in Labyrinth Lord. Thus, an ability might be expressed as 12+, meaning you want to roll a 12 or higher on a d20. Placing the target number in the hands of the players means they get the thrill of shouting "My attack hits!" or the agony of lamenting "I failed my mutation roll," as opposed to the Game Master setting a secret Difficulty Class.

Offered Without Comment...

because I am literally without words.

note: not a hack

Ever Get Totally Derailed by Something You Can't Currently Discuss?

It just happened to me. Not something good. On the level of WTF!?!

I'm going to drink now.

Maybe it will make sense after a few beers.

I'll share if / when I can. Maybe it was a hack.