Character Discussion

[attriel]

OK folks, this is where we'll attach the characters.

Right now we have:
Drathos
Kiir
DirkDarkBlade
Dinbin
Zyzzyx

If we get another new player later today, I'll slip the adventure up to 6 players so no one has to drop out.

The only remaining question is whether we want a level 1 adventure, which lets everyone settle into their characters and lets Drathos and Dirk familiarize with the rules and the playstyle, or jump it up to 5th. The danger with jumping it is that you don't really know what all those powers do, and that could get dicey.

Really, I think it's up to Drathos and Dirk to decide if they want a standard level 1 adventure or if they want to experiment at a higher level. To those who would put in their 2c on the matter and aren't in the game: Don't.

Depending on how my time is and how much running an adventure takes out of me, I may take on a second one end of July or so and if this one stays at 1 I can rack that one up. If this one racks, I probably wouldn't rack the other, then.

[Zyzzyx]

I would say start it out at 5th. Or maybe 3rd.


When I started in Sagar's group with Solak it was with a L3 character. It did feel like a bit of a jump as I hadn't played before, but wasn't too bad. I had been following the adventure and the game mechanics for a bit. Sagar and the other folks corrected or reminded me of a few things here and there. That, and I think everyone was still learning a bit anyway.

If jumping in at a higher level, I would request an option that Sagar let me do with Solak. On getting to the next level, be allowed to change out more than just one power/feat, since you haven't had the chance to do so previously. Maybe one per level, maybe a whole rebuild.

[Kiir]

I won't mind starting at 3rd or 5th, but I am fine with starting at 1st as well. Either one works for me, I'll leave it up to drathos and murgos.

[DirkDarkBlade]

I don't really mind either way, except I haven't gone past level one in the book so far. But then again I still have to read the combat system section (something I plan to start tonight).

[drathos]

I'm fine with starting 3rd or 5th level. Might need a re-assignment of powers as Zyzzyx said since we're jumping ahead, but aside from that I see no problems.

[DinbinFanfoom]

No preference for starting level.

[attriel]

Well then, if everyone wants to jump to 5, we can. Why 5? because I figure if we're jumping up, we might as well go somewhere interesting :)

I'll need to finish conjuring up a level 5 adventure, but in the meantime, for ability scores:

We can do the standard array/point buys, as in the CB, or I can put up, say, three stat blocks per person and you can pick whichever set you like. This has the potential to leave you woefully overpowered, probably with a few weak spots. As in -- I can barely carry my own weight, forget the treasure, but I can talk you into killing yourself for us!

Well, no, not really. I think minimum 4e playable is 8's, so 8-18 would be the range.

Or you can just take the standard array and go from there. Let me know who wants which option.

Since the CB doesn't let you level up past 3 without paying, post what you want and someone can build the sheet for you.

Think about what kind of magic items you might like, I'll check the DMG this evening to figure out how much stuff a level 5 should have.

[Zyzzyx]

No preference for starting level.

Hmm... OK. Though I guess we might be a little overwhelmed at L27? :biggrin:


Serious side... L3 or L5, or even L7. All fine, but would be nice to bypass L1 and start with a few more options.

[Kiir]

Roll Options are 4d6 drop lowest 6 times, for 3 sets, and if you don't like any of the sets then you can use point buy or standard array. The DM is making dinner so he asked me to post this for him.

[Quervo]

Atty see pg 143 of DMG for starting higher than 1st level... mainly it says players start with items as follows... magic, Level +1, level and level -1, and starting gold = to Level -1 item.

example... startling level 5, - L6 item, L5 item, L4 item, and 840 gold to be spent at character's descression.

That isnt hard and fast, you can md up or down as you see fit... just gives you a basic starting point.

[attriel]

Atty see pg 143 of DMG for starting higher than 1st level... mainly it says players start with items as follows... magic, Level +1, level and level -1, and starting gold = to Level -1 item.

example... startling level 5, - L6 item, L5 item, L4 item, and 840 gold to be spent at character's descression.

That isnt hard and fast, you can md up or down as you see fit... just gives you a basic starting point.

Yeah found that just as i finished making dinner.

So, pick out what you'd like (or what kind of thing and someone can look up for you I'm sure). 4, 5, 6 + 800g, or you can slip things around some. let's say 300 to step from a 4 to a 5, and 600 for a 5 to a 6. So you can get 5 5 6 or 5 6 6 (but no, not 6 6 6, that would be excessive). you can also trade around for 4 4's if you'd like, no cost.

I'll roll up the stat blocks in a few. once DK isn't sitting here to eat the dice :o

[attriel]

OK, here's the stat blox (man, throwing 24d6 is so cool)

The spare block can be used instead of your block. If Someone uses the spare, their bloc becomes open for anyone else to pick from.

You can take one line of numbers from your block. The spare goes as a block. Blocks were assigned by 1d6 on the order that the names were listed in the first post. I think everyone got at least one good line, but if you decide you don't want any of the available lines, you're free to take the standard array instead.

Spare
15 12 15 14 10 12
15 9 15 14 10 14
11 13 10 13 10 13

Drathos
9 11 15 11 11 10
13 13 13 10 12 13
11 11 15 13 11 15

Zyzzyx
16 16 12 11 16 8
11 10 16 12 15 17
14 10 10 9 13 11

Kiir
14 8 9 13 11 12
16 11 17 17 9 9
11 15 14 9 12 8

Murgos
9 9 10 12 14 12
17 12 11 17 17 13
12 14 10 13 14 10

Dinbin
11 18 13 12 16 8
13 14 11 17 13 11
12 11 15 13 15 15

[Zyzzyx]

Ah, not too bad. I'll probably go with my second row.


Gotta say that I really like the numbers on Murgos' second row though. Mmmm...

[Kiir]

I'll take my second row as well. Murgos got quite a nice roll for his second row!

[Zyzzyx]

I predict Dinbin will have a hard time passing up that 18...

[attriel]

Clarifications:

You can trade an item level down. So if you find two 5's you want, you can drop your 6 to a 5 (or pay a 4 to a 5 still)

And you can use the 1000g (i'm upping it) to buy other magic items like potions or ammo or even just another necklace.

And I know I'm overcharging for the 4-5 upgrade, but i'm vastly underch arging for 5-6 :o

[Kiir]

Here is my Shaman I think.

[DinbinFanfoom]

It may take me until the weekend to get ready... I'm mostly MIA from work up at the concert site, prepping that, with very little surfing time (riding a cherry picker instead). Do we know what roles people are playing yet? I was planning either wiz-controller or ranger-ranged-striker.

[Zyzzyx]

Preliminary info for my halfling ranger. Haven't customized the equipment yet.

And no, no name yet either.

[DinbinFanfoom]

Atty, any problem with me playing Fia as rolled from Quervo's game? If the stats aren't acceptable, I will pick from our arrays... see roster thread.

[Zyzzyx]

Here is my Shaman I think.

All too often I look at other characters with a bit of jealousy. Same here, that's a nice build; spirit companion and all the healing, looks nice. Can tell who's gonna be the perception person.

[attriel]

Atty, any problem with me playing Fia as rolled from Quervo's game? If the stats aren't acceptable, I will pick from our arrays... see roster thread.

Looks OK

[DinbinFanfoom]

I bit the bullet and subscribed for a month to be able to get the full version of the char builder. If I unsubscribe down the road, does my install of the builder lose it's ability to create level 4+ characters?

[Shiz]

I guess we will find out. The app does connect to your account info every time it is opened.

[Greebo]

I bit the bullet and subscribed for a month to be able to get the full version of the char builder. If I unsubscribe down the road, does my install of the builder lose it's ability to create level 4+ characters?

Yes

[Kiir]

I bit the bullet and subscribed for a month to be able to get the full version of the char builder. If I unsubscribe down the road, does my install of the builder lose it's ability to create level 4+ characters?


I won't think so, just the ability to update it I think.

[Kiir]

Here is my Shaman I think.


Changed my at will from Defending Strike to Haunting Spirits since we have a rogue in the party.

[DinbinFanfoom]

I'll let you know in a month or so. :D $7/month is a bit steep for something you'll use once per level. :P I think I have Fia mostly fleshed out (see other thread) but somehow, some of my spellbook powers didn't transfer from the tool, I'll have to check them again. Item bonuses didn't seem to apply automaticaly either (orb gives +2 to ATK/DAM, robe +1 to AC, cape +1 to REF/FOR/WIL). Do I have to "equip" them or something in the creator?

[attriel]

I'll let you know in a month or so. :D $7/month is a bit steep for something you'll use once per level. :P I think I have Fia mostly fleshed out (see other thread) but somehow, some of my spellbook powers didn't transfer from the tool, I'll have to check them again. Item bonuses didn't seem to apply automaticaly either (orb gives +2 to ATK/DAM, robe +1 to AC, cape +1 to REF/FOR/WIL). Do I have to "equip" them or something in the creator?

7$: yeah, and someone else can always update the sheet for you fairly easily.

Equips: Yeah, on the equipment screen you should be able to equip it. And shiz found the right-click in sheet viewer for modifying what numbers are shown on the power cards (quite handy that)

[Greebo]

Actually I'm not sure - I'll have to try loading it up w/o my internet connection next time.

[Quervo]

UMMM actually no it doesnt... the only time it uses account info is when you upgrade the builder.

the only thing it does is goes out and looks for an update on a generic update server.

[attriel]

UMMM actually no it doesnt... the only time it uses account info is when you upgrade the builder.

the only thing it does is goes out and looks for an update on a generic update server.

i thoughti only ever asked for the login for getting the updates, but i couldn't quite remember for sure

[Zyzzyx]

Since I've only got the CB on my netbook, I just tried opening it with the wireless turned off. Opens fine, lets me create a higher lever character just fine.

However, I could see that it would have my D&D Insider account info cached somewhere with its expiration date, and when that comes up drop back to L3 stuff only.

[DirkDarkBlade]

OK DnDinsider.com question. I looked at the subscribe page and it has three options. I can pay 4.95/month, 6.65/month, or 7.95/month, but I can't find anything that says what the difference between the rate plans is. Just a different picture above hte Buy Now button. Any idea?

I'll also have to redo Dirk since I'd already set him up in the CB. But I don't mind as Atty's numbers are better than the one's I had (well except for the one 18). Since I can't open the character files does that mean we have decided to start at level 5?

[attriel]

OK DnDinsider.com question. I looked at the subscribe page and it has three options. I can pay 4.95/month, 6.65/month, or 7.95/month, but I can't find anything that says what the difference between the rate plans is. Just a different picture above hte Buy Now button. Any idea?

I'll also have to redo Dirk since I'd already set him up in the CB. But I don't mind as Atty's numbers are better than the one's I had (well except for the one 18). Since I can't open the character files does that mean we have decided to start at level 5?

The options are for annual, 3 month, and monthly.

And I assumed you could open a character in the CB, just maybe couldn't save any modifications. You can't even open them?

[Zyzzyx]

I was thinking we should still post up the PDF files as well. I don't have the CB available at work, but still like to have access to character sheets.

[attriel]

I was thinking we should still post up the PDF files as well. I don't have the CB available at work, but still like to have access to character sheets.

no argument. I figured I'd let everyone finish their characters then print them to PDF for those who don't already have such a feature

[Zyzzyx]

ah, gotchya

[DirkDarkBlade]

Its possible that both files corrupted when I saved them but when I attempted to open the files I received errors (I don't remember exactly what they said) but indicated the files couldn't be opened. I have to run to another building now but I can check again when I return.

Thanks for the clarification on the pricing.

[Greebo]

I can confirm that char files > lvl 3 won't open on a char builder that hasn't been fully updated by an active subscription.

[attriel]

I can confirm that char files > lvl 3 won't open on a char builder that hasn't been fully updated by an active subscription.

wow thats a nuisance :/

[Greebo]

thats probably the idea...

[Zyzzyx]

OK, as a ranged attack ranger, how are you/we/I handling arrows/ammo? Kinda new to me having to deal with ammo.

Do I just purchase 25 arrows and call it good? Do I need to roll to recover arrows after an encounter? If I'm running out and we're not in town, can I spend some time on an extended rest to make some arrows? And what about the 'holy grail' of an endless quiver? (no, I haven't looked it up yet, but figure there's gotta be one listed)

[Shiz]

In a typical encounter of 4-6 rounds you are might use 6-10 arrows, more if you Twin Strike every time. You need to carry more than 25 I think, even if you assume every arrow that hits is recoverable and every arrow that misses is not.

[Quervo]

normally, per the phb ammunition fired is consumed...

I personally used to use the following rules. Any ammo that hits it's target is consumed, if you miss it is 50/50 that you can find it and reuse it.

lvl 9 endless quiver, AV

[Zyzzyx]

Ouch... that's enough to make me reconsider doing an archery ranger.

[attriel]

Take a hundred arrows or so and try not to blatant run past that number. If we're in the woods, we can figure out a roll to make basic arrows maybe, but if you're not in the middle of a forest, I'd have to say the available materials wouldn't be conducive to flight.

Generally I try not to worry about consumables too heavily, just b/c it's a nuisance. ten days rations, 100 arrows, things like that and we call it "good" for a reasonable adventure. You go on an epic quest, you might need more. Whenever we hit a town, you're assumed to have used it all up during the preceeding adventure.

keeps the drain in, but without making it a nuisance to gameplay. you start having magic arrows, we'll have to start being more particular.

[Zyzzyx]

Sounds good...


Now to figure how I can get that endless quiver... :D Just cuz its neato. OK, and useful.

[Zyzzyx]

Yeah, I changed over to a gnome ranger. He's definitely all about the damage. :biggrin:

Most of the powers are +11 vs AC. Taking a look at the Young Heroes group, that's on par with Fandango and Brunhilde, so I'm pleased with that. Current build has a +9 for most damage rolls.

[DirkDarkBlade]

Just FYI. The accounts section at DNDinsider was down so I couldn't sign up. I'll try again tonight and if I can get in I'll work on my char sheet. And yes I'm planning on Dirk being a halfling Rogue.

[Zyzzyx]

Had some time today, fiddled with equipment. Ended up with a 4-6-6 item array. Thought I had a 3-4-4-6 combo working, but took reading some details to see the differences in the bracers I was choosing.

Got a +2 atk/dmg shortbow, +2 dmg bracers, and +1 f/r/w cloak. Making do with non-magical hide armor for now.