State of The Tavern - Renovations at Casa de Tenkar

Renovations kicked off midweek here at Casa de Tenkar (yes, tomorrow is Cinco de Mayo) My son's old room is becoming Rach's "Yoga Room / Guest Bedroom" and our Living Room is going to be, well - a spiffy living room.

This means no internet for about 10 to 12 hours a day, which has interrupted the recording of the Fireside Chats on the Tavern Chat podcast. It also means when I do have internet, I'm playing catch up with posts like this. Sigh.

Still, I'm angling for some shelving units in both rooms - a man needs to store his game books somewhere they can breathe ;)

I've also bee dealing with some personal issues. Nothing bad, but time-consuming none the less. So, if I seem behind - or more so then usual - now you know why.

As an aside, I HATE fucking wallpaper. Glad it's going away in these two rooms...

Paizo to Make Content for D&D 5e? Say What!?!

Straight from the Paizo blog:

Paizo is partnering with our friends at Game On Tabletop to launch the Kingmaker Adventure Path for Pathfinder Second Edition. We'll start with a hardcover Kingmaker compilation, and you'll tell us how much more you want to see. The companions from the computer game were also a big hit, so we'll be adding a Companion Guide to introduce them to the tabletop campaign, complete with NPC stats, sidequest encounters, and expanded kingdom-management roles. Finally, we'll add a hardcover Kingmaker Bestiary for 5E, developed in conjunction with industry leaders in third-party 5E publishing, allowing players of the current edition of the world's oldest RPG the chance to experience the rich and detailed storylines that have made the Kingmaker Adventure Path a fan favorite for a decade. More add-ons and unlocks will be revealed as the campaign progresses. (emphasis mine)

May you live in interesting times ;)

Oh, and the first time I've heard of this site: https://www.gameontabletop.com/cf194/kingmaker-10th-anniversary.html - interesting that Paizo won't be using Kickstarter to crowdfund.

Joint Statement of BJ Hensley and Frog God Games

Offered without comment.

Original post linked here: https://froggodgames.com/frogs/joint-statement-of-bj-hensley-and-frog-god-games/?fbclid=IwAR2l1NzQ077wh6fcyj23uqJFRuHa9QmtaVQx3fYjO2KIevg3qgCSHXOPkvQ

Joint Statement of BJ Hensley and Frog God Games

Nearly two years ago, both BJ Hensley and Bill Webb attended Paizo Con 2017 representing their respective companies. On the first day of the convention, Bill Webb engaged in several inappropriate and unprofessional interactions with BJ Hensley. Since then, many third parties have commented, weighed in, and in some cases, exaggerated what happened. BJ Hensley and Frog God Games now jointly call for a cessation of attacks by all third parties on either/both BJ Hensley and Frog God Games.

In concert with this desire, both parties have agreed not to engage in any litigation against the other. Everyone involved simply wants resolution and peace. Both parties want this to be a teachable moment that does not further divide but encourages everyone to consider how they can improve their own behaviors and the behaviors of those around them.

Finally, both parties believe that all members, companies, and conventions involved in the tabletop gaming industry need to adhere to and actively promote a higher code of conduct that ensures respect, safety, and welcome spaces for each and every participant in the tabletop gaming hobby.

As a gesture of good faith Frog God Games will donate the charitable portion of one of their next charity bundles to RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) in addition to an immediate donation to RAINN in the amount of $1,000.00.

Additional Note from Frog God Games

In light of this joint statement, we would like to reiterate our request to our fans that they not make attacks on BJ in any way. As noted above, there are people who have exaggerated her words for their own benefit, but she has repeatedly and publicly attempted to stop that escalation. She is not the wrongdoer, and we ask that everyone please keep this in mind.

Reminder - Tavern Chat - Tonight - 9 PM Eastern

Yep. Another Wednesday. Another Wednesday Night Tavern Chat on the Tenkar's Tavern Discord Server. I really should start trying to lock down special quests for some of these evening hangouts ;)

I may bow out early. Renovations start at 10 AM tomorrow at La Casa de Tenkar, but I WILL be in at 9 PM.

Use this link to join the festivities:

https://discord.gg/fReGmuD

Kickstarter - Far Away Land Old School Role-Playing Game

"OSR version of the Far Away Land RPG compatible with older versions of the world's most famous game and its clones."

My experience with Far Away Land has been magical, so obviously I am biased. See, Dirk gives FAL adventures away at PWYW pricing, and that is how I sampled FAL for the first time and I was hooked. The art and the implied setting were chum in the water and the next thing I knew I had all of the releases and was running a session of Far Away Land myself. Me, the "I'll never run a non-OSR game" was running a non-OSR game. The thing is, FAL had obvious OSR roots, and now it has come back to its roots.

Did I mention I wrote a forward for the Far Away Land Old School Role-Playing Game? Yep, I did. No, not biased at all ;P

Project Description: The Far Away Land (FAL) OSR is a re-imagining of the Far Away Land RPG – through the lens of OSR-style games and mechanics. This project was inspired by Swords and Wizardry Light, a stripped-down, rules-lite version of Swords and Wizardry that uses only d20s and d6s. FAL was originally inspired by simple, old school gaming mechanics that place emphasis on characters, story, and adventures rather than heavy rules. This version of FAL uses familiar mechanics (6 stats, HP, AC, etc.) mashed into the Far Away Land setting. It maintains the tradition of a rules-lite game while using a more well-known system that is compatible with the world’s most famous rpg and many of its clones. Essentially, FAL OSR is a complete circle, back to what initially inspired the original game, set in the gonzo world of Far Away Land. 

The FAL OSR Physical Book: The physical book is 130 pages, 8.5 x 11, full color. It features rules for character creation, new classes, new playable races, 100 monsters, new spells, tons of rules for various mini games and lots more (detailed chapter by chapter below). The book is written, tested, and finished. It has a ton of artwork in the style of Far Away Land and maintains the quirky nature of that setting while giving players familiar (although modified rules). The pdf is bookmarked with a complete index and table of contents. 

Shit, just read the FAL Kickstarter page. the is much awesomeness there :)

POD Soft Cover at cost with PDF is 15 bucks (final about 29). POD Hard Cover at cost with PDF is 22 (final about 40 bucks)

Amazon Now Has a Dungeons & Dragons Section

Amazon now has a Dungeons & Dragons Section. Sure, its all 5e and 5e related, but the prices are damn good and its all in one place.

Besides, a percentage of all sales made via The Tavern's affiliate links (even if you stray off the Dungeons & Dragons section and sandbox to other RPGs and beyond) help support The Tavern.

Kickstarter - 5e Fantasy RPG Advent Calendar rammed full of custom gifts!

"A gift filled 24 door Advent Calendar for players of the 5th Edition of the World's Greatest Fantasy Role Playing Game."

I was intrigued when I first saw the 5e Fantasy RPG Advent Calendar rammed full of custom gifts! Kickstarter. I thought "what a cool gift for my who will then be 9 years old niece!" Then I saw the buy-in. 71 bucks plus another 28 for shipping. This is no longer an impulse buy. 99 bucks aint cheap.

TL;DR: 24 doors hiding 24 physical gifts alongside an exclusive Module to download that uses many of the calendars' contents! This includes exclusive metal miniatures commissioned for the calendar, game aids and so forth.  

The calendar front features stunning artwork with a developing cartoon style story and internal pictures behind ever door that further expand on the adventurers journey. Every calendar ships with a poster version of the cover art for when you've torn the doors off! 

If you would like to know a little more about the contents, and are prepared to take the "Full Gandalf" pledge of silence, please drop me a message.

Sorry. For 100 bucks I need more than vague details. Especially from a "First Created, Zero Backed account". I certainly shouldn't need to message the creator directly to find them out. Shame, because it really is a cool, if expensive, gift idea.

Kickstarter - The Koryo Hall of Adventures 5e Compatible Campaign Setting

"A new campaign setting compatible with Dungeons and Dragons 5th Edition (5e) based on Korean locations, myths, and legends."

One of the most overlooked Asian themed settings in RPGs is Korean. As someone that used to work in and lives near Flushing, NY - often called the second largest "Korea Town" in the United States, I've always been intrigued with Korean history and myths since childhood, having Korean classmates throughout my public school education. To have an RPG setting that covers such background I find pretty exciting. And thus we have The Koryo Hall of Adventures Kickstarter.

In the Koryo Hall of Adventures campaign setting, you can explore four uniquely detailed lands within the continent of Jeosung. Roam the mystical forest wilderness of Haguiliesta or head to the city and meddle in the mercenary politics of Daewanguk. Heroes (or fools) may attempt to infiltrate the hermit kingdom of Haenamguk or brave the frigid peaks of Noonnara. 

You want more? How about taking part in a pilgrimage along the crest of Wunü Mountain, or exploring the eternally dark swampy forest of Hugakneup? You could also participate in the famous Cave Games under Cheonsanju mountain, or even trade grains and brewed alcohols  along the Chassalgil trade route.

Heck, you  can even sample before putting your hard money down:

Would you like to sample the setting? Setting creator Aurélien Lainé has written five free adventures set in Jeosung, containing just enough hints of the campaign world to get a good taste. Best of all, they're available as a free pdf download on his website.

The sweet spot is 35 bucks for the print plus PDF.

Shared without comment:

(original can be found at Frog God Games)

Statement by Bill Webb

Bill Webb here. I am one of the principals of Frog God Games. I have been at the center of a controversy stemming from a series of events that took place at Paizo Con nearly two years ago. For the most part, I have declined to take part in the many, often heated, discussions of these events. But given the strong feelings, opinions, and rumors on the internet concerning the events of that day, myself, and my company, there are some things I need to say.

I want to start by taking ownership of my own bad actions. On the day in question, I acted unprofessionally towards a colleague, BJ Hensley. I was overly familiar with Ms. Hensley and acted in a gender dismissive fashion. To be specific, I put my arm around her shoulders and called her “sweetie.” That behavior was and is not appropriate behavior towards a colleague and, unless one is very familiar with someone and has their consent to speak to them in that manner, that kind of conduct is never appropriate.

Unfortunately, that was not the end of it. While we were out for a cigarette, I offered her one by holding my cigarette pack out towards her so that she could take one. As was my habit, I had my room key in the sleeve of the cigarette pack so that I would not lose it.

I now can imagine how that must have looked. I had absolutely no intention of giving the impression that I was propositioning Ms. Hensley. In fact, my wife and kids were present at the con and my wife would have responded very poorly to additional guests in our hotel room. However, that does not excuse my mistake. I can see that my actions with the cigarette pack could be taken as a pass. I am deeply sorry for making BJ uncomfortable.

I have worked hard since this event to correct my behavior and focused on being more professional in my interactions with both con attendees and colleagues. This in no way excuses my prior behavior.

Beyond this, I have been accused of doing several other things that day. I have seen stories on the internet accusing me of assault, getting into a fight, and attempting to drug Ms. Hensley at PaizoCon and acting like a sexual predator and a violent drunk at other cons. I am posting a series of screen shots below which I hope will address these other accusations. None of these things happened at PaizoCon or any other con.

The company decided a while ago that when I’m at a convention now, I am always accompanied by another FGG associate, which is a policy I agree and comply with.

At the end of the day, I accept full responsibility for what happened that day and accept the  consequences. All that I can do is to try to be a better person. What truly has been the worst part of the aftermath of the incident with BJ are the attacks on Frog God Games. I am just one of many people who work for this company. None of the other people at FGG had anything to do with this incident and none of them have ever conducted themselves in such a poor fashion. They are all perfectly decent and respectful people. It saddens me that they have had to pay for my poor actions from years ago by having our projects attacked by third parties. Many of these projects I have nothing to do with, yet my colleagues must continue endure their company being disparaged because of my poor behavior.

I am not asking for anyone’s forgiveness here. I acted like an idiot that day. That is the full truth of the matter. And I am deeply sorry. At this point, all that I can hope for is that with regard to this incident is that people will form their opinions of me and FGG based the truth and my actions, and not on the basis of rumors and fictional accounts created to fit a desired narrative.

Thank you,

Bill Webb

Craig Brasco - Artist Available for Freelance Work

I LOVE Craig's artwork. He's done a few pieces for me over the years and they are, quite simply, amazing.

If you're looking for an artist that does quality work on time, look no further than Craig Brasco.

cbrasco@gmail.com is his email. His website has more samples of his work, both black and white as well as color: craigbrasco.com

That is all :)

Kickstarter - Paths: World of Adia tabletop RPG

"Paths: World of Adia is a tabletop RPG that supports both classic Game Master group play and Solo Gameplay."

I've interviewed members of Smunchy Games on the Tavern Chat Podcast and we've spoken about the Paths: World of Adia Kickstarter. Here are the links to the interviews:

https://anchor.fm/tavernchat/episodes/E335---Designers--Makers-Fireside-Chat-with-Jacob-Nerdolopedia-Smunchy-Games-e3oqq9

https://anchor.fm/tavernchat/episodes/E277---Designers--Makers---Fireside-Chat-with-Sean-of-Smunchy-Games-e37v69

https://anchor.fm/tavernchat/episodes/E259---Designers--Makers---Fireside-Chat-with-Tyson-Smunchy-Games-e32rb7

I'm intrigued. Paths can be run both with and without a GM. That is a bold move and one I fully support. Who hasn't had an RPG session where no one wanted to GM. Now you have an option. Heck, you can even play solo:

The world of Adia needs adventurers, and understands the limits players have in their personal lives. We’ve developed a system where players can play together, even without a Game Master. Branching choices and required checks are handled within the module itself. This allows for groups or a single player to interact with the world and progress even when real life gets in the way.

I think the sweet points to back are 80 bucks (includes the "GM in a Box" cards) and 110 (which adds in a hardcover module).

I'll probably be in for 110 myself. I may need to go back to work to supplement my Kickstart habit ;)

Tavern Chat Hangout - 9 PM Eastern on the Tenkar's Tavern Discord Server

Yep. It's a Wednesday yet again and that means this evening is Tavern Chat, a time to hangout out and talk with others in the hobby, big and small (mostly small ;) about going ons in the gaming hobby and general nerd stuff. Come on, you know you want to ;)

Looking for a link? Here ya go:

https://discord.gg/fReGmuD

The text chat channel is #tavern-chat. The voice channel is the Speakeasy.

See you tonight!

Huge Fat Goblin Games Sale - Most of the Catalogue is Priced at a Buck a Piece

Here's your link to the Fat Goblin page at DriveThruRPG:

https://www.drivethrurpg.com/browse/pub/3865/Fat-Goblin-Games?affiliate_id=1446

There's even a sale on Stock Art.

Yes, that is an affiliate link above. Purchases made with The Tavern's affiliate links help keep the lights on and the taps flowing here at The Tavern. I thank you in advance - Tenkar

Kickstarter - RPG Random Encounter Dice (New Comet Games)

"Easy to use Random Encounter Dice for your Fantasy RPG game. Usable with 5E, PF, B/X, S&W, 1E/2E, DCC and more."

Dice. The final frontier.

Seriously, one thing I can never seem to have enough of is dice. Weird sizes, strange colors, unexpected uses - I have all types.

New Comet Games is tossing a new idea (at least to me) onto the table. RPG Random Encounter Dice.

RPG Random Encounter Dice are the perfect tool when you need a new monster to fill in on the fly during a game, when building your dungeon or populating a full world.  

Each die has 10 different monsters grouped into similar monster categories.   

Each set includes 3 different dice for 30 different monsters. The complete collection includes 12 different 10 sided dice for 120 Unique Monster Outcomes!

A complete collection of all 4 sets is 30 bucks (and includes a bonus die). A single set is 9 bucks. Decisions, decisions...

Gygax Beer - You Know You Want One!

I'm guessing Gail missed the lucrative "liquor and beer" section when she registered the Gygax trademark. That, or she can defend it. Either way, looking forward to this can cooling down enough to drink ;)

Kickstarter - How Many RPG Pins Projects do We Need? (I Count Three Funding Right Now?)

Everyone like decorative pins, right? I mean, if you subscribe to Loot Crate you get one every month. My niece's school bag is flooded with such. That being said, how many RPG Pin Kickstarters do we actually need?

Well, I found three that are funding right now. All want about 10 bucks a pin. One shows physical samples of the actual pins, two just show concept art.

Here they are for your perusal:

RPG Pins show off your love of roleplaying games! Series 1.5

Sure the graphic says "& Patches" but
we don't need no stinkin' patches!
Oh, there are no patches

D20 RPG Hard Enamel Class Pins

Look! Actual samples!

Potion Shoppe: RPG enamel pins

Maybe it's just me, but I find this
to be the least impressive

Sale - Castles & Crusades Print plus PDF - Starting at 10 Bucks

Some examples are shown below.

Link to the Castles & Crusades sale page

News - DriveThruRPG Partners with Astral Virtual Tabletop

I consider this interesting news for multiple reasons. I'm surprised that DriveThruRPG is teaming up with ANY Virtual Table Top. They don't produce games, they distribute games. Secondly, I've never heard of the Astral Virtual Tabletop. Obviously, I don't know every of the existence of every VTT on the market, but I would have expected a more well known VTT to be part of an announcement like this. That being said, Astral appears to be well along in development - Tenkar

Astral Virtual TableTop is the easiest way to create, host, and play tabletop roleplaying games. Astral has partnered with DriveThruRPG to launch a new experience that makes running tabletop roleplaying games immersive, simple, and fun for both Game Masters and players. Use Astral to play with friends online, or as a helpful tool around the gaming table. Play any tabletop roleplaying system in Astral by importing and sharing your favorite titles purchased through any DriveThru site, including DriveThruRPG and Dungeon Master's Guild. 

All accounts come with a ready-made starter template, tokens, audio files, and a helpful guide to help you get started. Use Astral for free, or level up to a Pro plan to unlock automation tools and 10,000 assets (designed by Mythic Portal Games) that come with every Pro account.

Reminder - Tavern Chat Tonight - 9 PM Eastern

Barrel Rider Games is now linked with Gallant Knight. Fantasy Grounds is releasing an AD&D 2e ruleset I expect those will just some of many topics tonight during the live Tavern Chat hangout at 9 pm Eastern.

Tavern Chat is held weekly on the Tenkar's Tavern Discord Server, each Wednesday night.

Talk, listen, ask questions, chew the fat. It's all good. You never know who may turn up :)

https://discord.gg/PqSkRc3

News - Fantasy Grounds has just released Officially Licensed AD&D 2E modules for the PHB, MM, DMG and N1 Adventure

I received the following from Doug Davidson (Fantasy Grounds) via the Tenkar's Tavern Facebook page:

Fantasy Grounds just released officially licensed AD&D 2E modules for the PHB, MM, DMG and N1 adventure.  

We added a 2E ruleset to all Standard and Ultimate licenses where people can enter their own data if they don't want to buy the preloaded module content we sell. 

https://www.fantasygrounds.com/store/?sys=27

I would have preferred 1e or B/X but this is a heluva good sign that there are more classic rulesets in the works. Notice that the adventure converted to Fantasy Grounds is N1 - a classic AD&D 1e adventure.

Interesting times!

edit - From a comment of Facebook:

There is a free extension that makes the 2e ruleset a AD&D ruleset.
You actually get the rules engine (automation) free with the program. You need to buy the books to get the content, but you could enter is all yourself if you wanted to.
DCC also got an official ruleset the same day.