💾 Archived View for spam.works › mirrors › textfiles › rpg › rpg_technology.txt captured on 2023-07-22 at 20:52:29.
View Raw
More Information
⬅️ Previous capture (2023-06-16)
-=-=-=-=-=-=-
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
THE COMPLETE GUIDE TO RPG TECHNOLOGY
FOR FANTASY ROLE PLAYING GAMES
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
COPYRIGHT (C) 1996
All trademarks of products, company names, logos, phrases, service
names, and/or slogans are trademarks of the respective companies,
artists, and/or individuals, where applicable.
The following guide is the property of its author, who hereby
states that he retains the copyright except for where noted. You may
distribute it at will, provided that nothing in the guide, this notice,
or any of the credits are altered in any way; and that you do not make
a profit from it.
This document is not for sale and is made available for private
game use only.
*** DISCLAIMER ***
All contents of this guide are presented for game purposes only.
Advice oriented information is not to be taken as legal consultation or
legal service, but as suggestions and examples of real-world or
hypothetical models. Always consult a lawyer for legal and lawful
guidance. The opinions and views contained in this guide reflect those
of the individual authors. The opinions, content, and organization of
this document are in no way connected with the faculty and staff of any
educational institute where this guide was found.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Initial Reactions To The Guide
Preface
Figuring Out Techno-Items
Cimarron Six-Shooter
Schnell & Wilkes Products
A Story of Fyre and Smoak
Sixguns & Sorcery
Weaponry - Past & Present
High Technology Items
The Carlson System to Firearms
16 Arcane Answers To Gunpowder
Non-Weapon Proficiencies
Rogue Kit: Technologist
Magic-Items
Albus Ater Ante Magicus Metallum
Suggested Reading
Special Thanks
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
INITIAL REACTIONS TO THE GUIDE
"An excellent job. It's thorough, interesting, and definitely useful."
-- A.R.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
PREFACE
This informative guide is to give a GM some rules for introducing
technology into a fantasy role-playing game. The consequences of doing
so is not discussed in this guide because it is discussed thoroughly in
the articles that are listed in the "Suggested Readings" section.
Since players shouldn't automatically know how a highly technical
item works immediately, "Figuring Out Techno-Items" gives a few systems
to allow characters to analyze any technical item.
This guide will take you through various new weapons starting with
a modified hand crossbow to a laser gun.
"Cimarron Six-Shooter" gives you the gun feel without having to
introduce gunpowder or worse things. Now a character can be a cowboy.
The arquebus is typically the only firearm used in fantasy RPGs
unfortunately. "A Story of Fyre and Smoak" will correct and make
realistic. This information can be used as a replacement of the
arquebus or in an adventure to Earth when firearms were introduced to
the medieval era.
Some GMs may want characters to enter Earth's old west. If the GM
has the Boot Hill RPG, he can convert Boot Hill characters to
characters using "Sixguns & Sorcery".
"Weaponry - Past & Present" provides information for guns from the
old west to modern day Earth. Jumping into the future, a GM can sling
characters into a high tech adventure using the information in "High
Technology Items".
"Non-Weapon Proficiencies" offers some things that may be of use
to gun-slingers and their ilk.
"Rogue Kit: Technologist" gives a kit for players of a character
who hates magic. This definitely goes against the grain, so it should
be very fun to play.
No guide would be complete without a few "Magic-Items". And for
fun, "Albus Ater Ante Magicus Metallum" provides something interesting
for GMs.
For the most part, the information enclosed will have been play-
tested and in a workable form. In others, you may have to make further
adjustments to fit the ideas into your campaign. All rules are optional
and whatever is needed by the GM should be used. It is suggested that
you at least try to use everything and see how it goes. If it works
well then use it, if not get rid of it. In any case, I would be
interested in knowing the results and any changes you've made.
This material is the fruit of my labor with special assistance
from a few people who are acknowledged in the "Special Thanks" section.
I would appreciate that my name as well as those in the Special
Thanks section are not removed, changed, or altered since we are the
ones who deserve credit our names should remain with the guide. Of
course I can't really stop anybody from doing what they want. I just
ask that you respect those who made this guide possible because I'm
sure that they will continue to make great material.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
FIGURING OUT TECHNO-ITEMS
Dragon Technique
In the absence of someone to instruct the character in a techno-
item's use, a character may attempt to puzzle out it out on their own.
To do so, a player rolls on the appropriate Investigation Tables given
herein. Then he rolls a 1d10 for each round the character spends
puzzling out the item. Following the directions in the Table and
starting at Start. The following modifiers apply to each roll (all
modifiers are cumulative):
Intelligence less than 10.................................... +1
Intelligence greater than 14................................. -1
Similar object seen in use................................... -1
Object has been explained by someone familiar with it........ -2
Operated similar object previously........................... -2
INVESTIGATION TABLE: Weapons
Start
1-6 go to B
7-8 go to C
9-0 go to A
A
1-4 go to B
5-7 go to Start
8-0 DISCHARGE!
B
1-5 Finish
6 go to Start
7-8 go to A
9-0 DISCHARGE!
C
1-5 go to B
6-0 go to Start
Discharge - weapon goes off, injuring the user or some nearby person.
(If both results are possible, then 50% chance of each.)
INVESTIGATION TABLE: Simple Non-Deadly Items
Start
1-5 go to C
6-8 go to A
9-0 go to E
A
1-4 go to B
5-0 go to Start
B
1-5 go to C
6-0 go to A
C
1-4 go to D
5 go to A
6 go to Start
7-8 go to B
9-0 go to F
D
1-3 Finish
4-5 go to B
6-7 go to F
8 go to C
9-0 Item Destroyed
E
1-4 go to Start
5-8 go to C
9-0 go to F
F
1-4 go to C
5-8 go to E
9-0 Item Destroyed
INVESTIGATION TABLE: Complex Non-Deadly Items
Start
1-6 go to C
7-8 go to A
9-0 go to F
A
1-3 go to C
4-6 go to B
7-0 go to Start
B
1-4 go to D
5 go to C
6-0 go to A
C
1-5 go to D
6-7 go to B
8-9 go to A
0 go to Start
D
1-4 go to E
5-6 go to C
7 go to B
8-0 go to I
E
1-3 Finish
4-5 go to D
6-8 go to J
9-0 Item Broken or Destroyed
F
1-3 go to C
4-6 go to Start
7-8 go to G
9-0 go to H
G
1-4 go to D
5-6 go to C
7 go to F
8-0 go to I
H
1-4 go to G
5-8 go to F
9-0 go to I
I
1-4 go to D
5-6 go to G
7 go to H
8-0 go to J
J
1-5 go to E
6-7 go to I
8-0 Item Broken or Destroyed
Weapons consist of all death-dealing devices. Simple non-deadly
items consist of motorcycles, radios, televisions, flashlights, etc..
Complex non-deadly items consists of automobiles, computers,
audio/visual systems, electronic equipment, etc..
Gamma Technique
Unless a character acquires a techno-item from someone willing and
able to explain how it works, or the character has previously used or
seen in use a techno-item just like it, the character won't know how to
use a newly-acquired techno-item... let alone its purpose. The
character may try to figure out what the techno-item is and how it
works by using the following procedure. Each attempt at figuring out a
techno-item takes 1d4 turn. There is no limit to the number of tries a
character can make, but only one character at a time can try to figure
out a techno-item. One character's progress (or lack of) in this
regard, doesn't affect another character's chances figuring out the
techno-item.
The GM should follow these steps when a character is figuring out
an item;
1) Get the techno-item's complexity (given as a letter).
2) Using the item's complexity, find the Start Number, Die Roll,
and Damage on the Techno-Item Complexity Table. Do not give
players any of this information.
3) The GM rolls one die for the item and one for the character
trying to figure it out. The GM uses the type of die listed in the
Die Roll column for the item's die. The character's die is 1d12
for humans and demi-human characters, and 1d10 for humanoid
characters. For every intelligence point above 15, modify the die
roll by +1. For every intelligence point below 6, modify the die
roll by -1.
4) The die roll result for the item's die is added to the number
listed in the Start Number column. The die roll result for the
character's die is subtracted from this number. This total result
will be a new Start Number for use in future attempts (if any and
if possible) for this character to figure out the item.
5) If the total result is less than or equal to 0, the character
has figured out what the item does and how to operate it. If the
total result is equal to or greater than the start number plus the
first number in the Damage column, then the item breaks (unless it
discharges). If the total result is equal to or greater than the
start number plus the second number in the Damage column, then the
item discharges if possible, doing an amount of damage equal to
the second number in the Damage column (doesn't break however). A
character can keep trying to figure out an item until he succeeds
or it breaks.
TABLE: Techno-Item Complexity
Complexity Start Number Die Roll Damage
A 5 1d4 3/*
B 10 1d6 3/*
C 15 1d8 3/7
D 10 1d8 2/3
E 20 1d10 3/9
F 5 1d6 1/2
G 25 1d12 4/9
H 30 1d20 6/*
* an item of this complexity cannot do any damage to the characters
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
CIMARRON SIX-SHOOTER
The six-shooter is a weapon. This little wonder was originally
created by Smithy, a clever watchmaker, and Westron, a crossbow expert.
They came up with the idea of a very light crossbow that could shoot
darts. The true innovation lay, however, in the use of a spring
mechanism that rearmed the weapon after each shot. A S&W hand crossbow
can hold up to six small darts. Recocking the crossbow required only a
quick motion of the hand, which could be done in the same round the
weapon is fired. It takes a full turn to load another six darts into
the weapon's handle.
Unfortunately, the six-shooter has always been a fragile weapon
that easily jams. A to-hit roll of 1 or lower, after modifiers are
applied, causes the dart to jam inside the weapon, requiring one round
to clear and rearm the device.
Nowadays, a six-shooter costs 800 silver pieces (including a
leather holster, the hand-crossbow itself, and 18 darts). The hand
crossbow has encumbrance of 25 cn. An extra supply of 18 darts cost 50
silver pieces. Some notorious sharpshooters use depleted cinnabryl
darts, which add a flat 10' to all ranges and cause an extra hit point
of damage. These special darts cost 200 silver pieces each.
Normal proficiency and specialization rules do not apply to the
six-shooter so disregard them. If a character isn't proficient in the
six-shooter, he suffers a -5 to hit penalty. If the player devotes a
weapon proficiency to this weapon the character earns a basic mastery
of the weapon. For each additional slot, the player moves up to the
next mastery. Note mastering a six-shooter isn't limited to the fighter
class and any class can continue
to devote proficiency slots to the six-shooter. The following table
shows the advantages to mastering the six-shooter:
TABLE: Cimarron Six-Shooter Table
Mastery Ranges To Hit Bonus Damage
Basic 50/100/150 +0 1d4
Skilled 60/100/150 +1 1d6
Expert 70/110/150 +2 2d4
Master 80/110/150 +3 2d6
Grand Master 80/110/150 +4 3d6
Two six-shooters can fired at the same time, one in each hand,
provided they are both armed at the end of the previous round. Apply a
-2 penalty to hit on both sides.
At the Skilled mastery or better, the user may acquire non-weapon
proficiencies related to the six-shooter's use. Each proficiency
requires 1 non-weapon proficiency slot. They are as followed:
GC COMMENT: The six-shooter weapon is a great way to give a campaign a
western feel without worrying about the dangers of putting gunpowder or
firearms into your campaign. A character could be influenced by a
western book from another dimension and thus become obsessed with
molding a life around it. It isn't as far fetched as it seems. A Star
Trek episode dealt with a world that was based on a gangster book. Most
of our own civilized world is based on the bible as other civilizations
have there own key books. So a character if not a civilization with an
obsession to mimic the old west would be great. The "The Voyage of the
Princess Ark" story is great for combining fantasy RPG with the Old
West and if your hesitant to consider doing this then I suggest you
read this wonderful article. Just look how this statement flows: The
fighter finds in the strongbox a dusty collection... Time Life Books:
The Old West. Possibly better would be a magic cube that displays old
western shows and movies. A character that thinks he's John Wayne, a
character who lives the life of Bonanza, or worse he's the last ranger
the Lone Ranger... give it a chance it might be fun.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SCHNELL & WILKES PRODUCTS
S&W REPEATER
The availability of the S&W Repeater is relevant to where the
characters are located. Most organized countries have "outlawed" the
use of Schnell & Wilkes products except for their military usefulness.
In the unclaimed territories and such, they are common place.
The ability a character has with a S&W Repeater is relevant to the
number of weapon proficiency slots allocated towards it. Table 1 gives
range, damage, to hit, and the skill slots based on proficiency slots.
TABLE 1: Proficiency Slots
Prof. Slots Ranges Damage To hit Skill slots*
0 8"/16"/24 1d6 -1 0
1 9"/16"/24 2d4 0 1
2 10"/17"/24 2d6 +1 1
3 11"/17"/24 3d4 +2 1
4 12"/18"/24 4d4 +3 2
- All special skills offered for the "six-shooter" are available at the
same cost for the Repeater (except Fast Draw).
Other pertinent stats for the S&W Repeater are:
ROF: 1/round with max of 6/round
Reload Time: 10 rounds
Capacity: 5 in 'box', 1 on rail
Considered a heavy x-bow.
S&W SPAS SCATTERGUN
As time went by, many store and bar owners were complaining about
the holes in walls and materials being busted by the many shoot outs
which occured in or near their establishments. As often as not, the
shots fired were done by the owner themselves, trying to "keep the
place servicable".
With this in mind, Schnell and Wilkes went back to the drawing
board, and designed a weapon which had the capability to kill a man at
close range, but wouldn't throw its projectiles as far or with as much
potential for damage to walls, windows, etc.. Their new weapon was
dubbed the SPAS Scattergun (Short Power Area Spraying). It is available
in side-by-side double barrel, or auto-loading. The "shells" consist of
25 needle thin shards wrapped in a paper casing to hold them together.
A firm leather strap runs around the back and this is what the
string of the x-bow pushes against as it propells the pack of shards
down its "tubular" barrel. As the "shell" reaches the end of the tube,
the shards are "shot" out and spread apart. Due to each shards small
mass, they only carry enough inertia to be damage effective at 9" max.
However, they are very potent at close range, and with their
"scattering" pattern, accurracy is less important. Some pioneers have
reportedly used this weapon to kill waterfowl and upland game.
TABLE 2: Proficiency Slots
Prof. Slots Ranges Damage To hit
0 1"/4"/9" 3d4/2d4/1d4 +1/ 0 /-1
1 3"/6"/9" 3d6/2d6/1d6 +3/+1/ 0
Other pertinent stats are:
ROF: 1/round upto 3/round auto-loader
2/round double barrel
Reload Time: 10 rounds auto-loader
4 rounds double barrel
Capacity: 3 "shells" auto-loader
2 "shells" double barrel
The only special skills availble are Fast (Fan) Shooting and
Repair. These require the shooter to spend 1 Weapon proficiency per to
aquire.
S&W RATTLIN GUN
Sooner or later a government was bound to get their hands on this
new technology and put it to work for military purposes. Hence the
invention of the S&W Rattlin Gun. So named from the nose its gears
make when it is fired. The Rattlin Gun consists of 4 heavy x-bows
mounted on a rotating cylinder. The cylinder rotates when the Gunner
turns a crank attached to a gear box mechanism. This whole system is
mounted on an overturned wagon wheel axle which gives it 360 degree
radius of fire. As the bows rotate, two metal rails bend the bow
portion and an Assistant gunner cocks x-bow #2, at the same time the
2nd Assistant gunner is loading a bolt into x-bow #4, and
simultaneously, x-bow #1 is firing. The Gunner sights by looking down
the central cylinder and controls the rate of fire by the speed at
which he runs the crank. View from gunners Position:
1
x
Here the 2nd A. --> 4x o \x/2 <-- Slots which bend bow and
allow loades the bolts x Ass. Gunner to lock
string back.
3
Due to all the moving parts, the weapons accuracy is considered
terrible, unless a skilled Gunner is behind the crank. Then with its
incredible rate of fire, it can be very deadly weapon. It is most
commonly used on battlements for defensive purposes. Some trade
caravans have purchased licenses from "ruling powers" which allows them
the utilize "wagon" mounted Rattlin Guns in protecting their goods on
the way to market.
Pertinent stats are:
Range: 8"/16"/24"
Damage: 1d6/shot
ROF: 8 shots per round sustained
16 shots per round cyclic (max of 4 rounds before tiring)
For each proficiency the gunner has, he adds +1 to hit. To hit
adjustments are 1 or 2 mansized (-5), Group of mansized or 1-2 giant
sized (-3), and Group of giant sized (-1).
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
A STORY OF FYRE AND SMOAK:
NOTES TOWARDS ACCEPTABLE FIREARMS
Copyright 1992 Bryan J. Maloney
History
The arquebus proper was NOT, by any stretch of the imagination a
"primitive" firearm. It actually requires a great deal of technological
sophistication and centuries of experience with gunpowder-ish weaponry
to come up with such a device. Real-world history, without magic to
impede the progress of gunpowder weaponry, took nearly 200 years from
the introduction of gunpowder in Europe to the production of something
that could be called an "arquebus".
Furthermore, TSR decided that they had no need to actually look
into realistic ranges, rates of fire, etc.. Instead, the "arquebus"
they present was obviously invented out of whole cloth, with no
rational relationship to any other weapons, etc.. Therefore, presented
here is some compiled data on firearms more appropriate for most
campaigns.
What is an appropriate "first generation" firearm? The earliest
European use of gunpowder historically was not for personal weaponry.
Instead, gunpowder was used to power siege devices known as "bombards".
They took a full day to place and could only be fired two or three
times a day safely. However, they could hurl stones which were borders
of magnitude larger than most mechanical siege engines. Plus, they made
a terrifying noise. These bombards were also called (in English)
"gonnes" (pronounced "gon-ess"; the singular was spelled "gonne" and
was pronounced "gon-eh"). Eventually, someone came up with the idea of
miniaturizing things, thus producing the "hand-gonne". This was the
primary form of personal gunpowder weaponry for at least the first
generation of widespread gunpowder use in Europe.
The hand-gonne was nothing more than a miniature cannon, with a rod
on the rear to hold it. Larger versions had a sort of "mounting" stick,
which one stuck into the ground and used as a swivel to steady. They
were unreliable, inaccurate, and dangerous, but they produced a
terrifying noise, and were MUCH easier to learn to use than either bows
or crossbows. Furthermore, they scared horses, which meant that a
non-noble army could really wipe up the field with knights.
Kings liked them because gonne-men were cheaper to train and
supply than were either long-bowmen or cross-bowmen. They could then
outfit an army with pike and gonne-men and let their damned knights go
whistle.
Anyway, the hand-gonne was the personal firearm of earth's Middle
Ages. If one is to introduce firearms into a pseudo-medieval setting,
it is far more appropriate than later, more advanced forms.
Before we get into the descriptions of the gonnes, I should point
out that the gonne was a MILITARY weapon paramount. It was most
effective in a massed volley. It was not until the invention of the
wheel-lock or the flintlock centuries later that firearms even began to
challenge sharp steel for one-on-one fights. This doesn't mean that it
would be useless, just that a gonne is not the all-powerful weapon that
a modern firearm is today.
Game Conversion
The first thing to consider when dealing with firearms is just how
to classify them as weapon proficiencies. They are easier to use than
any other missile weapon (except thrown), but they are rather nasty to
deal with, smelly, dirty, etc.. The GM is advised to make them
available to Warriors and Rogues (but not to any sort of nobly,
knightly or extremely "honorable" package/character class because
gonnes are a COMMONER'S weapon) as standard weapon proficiencies. The
proficiency includes knowledge of loading, cleaning, unjamming, care,
etc..
After this the GM needs to consider the ammunition. At the time of
hand-gonne use, it was more common for a shooter to cast his own
bullets from ingot lead as to purchase them. One would buy loose
powder, but it would be stored separately, since each shot would have
to be loaded separately. Furthermore, it is easier to partition metals
by weight than by any other means, so primitive firearms were usually
built around calibers which corresponded to X balls per pound of lead.
This is how these gonnes were designed.
This will also make ammunition costs and other information easier
to handle, since one merely needs to set a price per pound of lead and
price per ounce of powder, then allow the players to keep track of
usage.
Anyway, the calibers of ammunition, their weights, and loads are
as followed:
Lead Balls Powder Loads
Caliber Per Pound Per Ounce
.39 80 42
.42 64 33
.46 50 26
.49 40 21
.53 32 16
.59 24 12
.62 20 10
.67 16 8
.74 12 6
.78 10 5
.84 8 4
.93 6 3
1.06 4 2
The hand-gonne is quite a weapon. It will misfire at least 15% of
the time. On a "to hit" roll of 2 or less means that it just went
fizzle. On a natural 1, the gonne blows up -- the weapon's damage is
inflicted on the wielder.
A gonne has to be held with one hand, preferably steadied on
something, while the other hand applies a slow match to the open
touchhole. If it rains, forget it. If it is foggy, forget it. If a
handgonne is not steadied upon something, the character should have a
-2 "to hit" for a light handgonne and a -5 for a heavy handgonne.
Handgonne range characteristics are pretty even, and are
summarized below:
Point
Type Blank Short Med Long Very Long
Light handgonnes 0-10 11-30 31-40 41-70 71-100
Heavy handgonnes 0-20 21-60 61-110 111-160 161-220
Ranges are in yards. Point Blank range gives a +5 bonus "to hit".
Short Range has a 0 modifier. Medium range is -2, long is -5, and the
Very Long range is -10. Beyond Very Long, the modifier "to hit" is -20.
(The half-damage and maximum damage ranges of a gonne depend more on
its ammunition than on its general size, so they are listed with the
individual weapons.)
The first list is of light handgonnes, which correspond to modern
pistols. They are designed for one-handed use, and might have a higher
rate of fire. In any case, they are lighter and smaller than heavy
handgonnes.
Rate of fire presents a particular problem, since a completely
unskilled person can clean, load, and VERY CAREFULLY aim one of these
things every two minutes. Heavy hand-gonnes can be fired every three
minutes WITH EXCRUCIATINGLY CAREFUL AIMING TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT.
Light Handgonnes
Caliber Damage 1/2D Max Wt. Cost
.39 1d6/1d8 220 1600 1 300
.39 1d6/2d4 220 1600 3 320
.39 1d8/1d10 220 1600 3 340
.42 1d8/1d12 220 1600 4 350
.46 1d8/1d12 220 1600 3 350
.46 1d8/2d6 220 1600 4 370
.49 2d4/3d4 220 1600 5 380
.53 2d4/2d8 220 1600 5 400
.59 1d10/4d4 220 1600 6 430
.62 1d10/3d6 220 1600 7 450
.67 1d10/2d10 220 1600 8 480
.74 1d10/3d8-1 440 3800 9 520
Heavy Handgonnes
Caliber Damage 1/2D Max Wt. Cost
.53 1d10/4d4 220 1600 7 300
.53 1d10/3d6 220 1600 10 310
.59 1d10/2d10 220 1600 9 330
.62 1d12/2d12 220 1600 13 380
.67 1d12/4d6 220 1600 15 410
.74 1d12/3d8 440 3800 12 390
.74 1d12/3d10-1 440 3800 17 450
.78 1d12/4d6+1 440 3800 13 430
.78 1d12/3d10 440 3800 19 490
.84 2d6/4d8 440 3800 21 530
.93 1d12/4d8 440 3800 18 510
.93 2d6/3d12 440 3800 25 600
.93 2d6/3d12+1 440 3800 32 620
1.06 2d6/4d10+1 880 7000 31 700
1.06 2d6/5d6 880 7000 40 750
Caliber is in inches. Damage is for small & medium creatures and
then for large creatures. 1/2D and Max are ranges in yards. Note that
the half damage ranges are longer than the effective accuracy of the
weapons. This is common with large-bore firearms. The ball can keep
velocity, but the weapon is hard to aim properly. Weight is in pounds,
cost is in silver pieces.
(Acknowledgment goes to Greg Porter and his work 3G3, which helped
immeasurably in converting mundane measurements to gameable terms.)
GC COMMENT: If you allow gunpowder and primitive firearms in your
campaign then this is the way to go. Presently, a character has a wide
selection of swords, pole arms, and bows but can only take the arquebus
as a firearm AND it isn't to spectacular. If your going to let a
campaign go in this direction, then use the rules presented here. They
are much clearer and historically accurate and allow more freedom for
the players.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SIXGUNS & SORCERY
Introduction
In the 1st edition Dungeon Masters Guide (p. 112-113), there are
rules for converting Boot Hill to Advanced Dungeons & Dragons and visa
verse. Unfortunately, a D&D character transported to Boot Hill must
follow the Boot Hill rules, which could be very deadly (and difficult
for the players to understand). Therefore, these rules allow easy
conversion of Boot Hill NPCs without converting the D&D player
characters. Also, the rules use D&D combat rules for ease of use. This
allows a GM to expand adventures to locales other than Boot Hill. One
excellent example of this would be THE CITY BEYOND THE GATE adventure
in DRAGON #100.
These rules are a modification of rules found in the 1st Edition
Dungeon Masters Guide, Dragon #100, the Boot Hill Game Book.
Boot Hill Shooters
Converting a Boot Hill character is handled as follows:
Strength - as shown, except 19 = 18/50 and 20 = 18/75
Intelligence - use 3d6 to determine
Wisdom - use 3d4 to determine
Dexterity - 6 base +1 per 10% speed rating (max. 16)
Constitution - use 3d6 to determine
Charisma - use d8+4 to determine
Each Boot Hill character is a fighter. His level is equal to his
gun fight experience. hit dice, hit points, saving throws, THAC0, and
such are determined by his level like normal D&D characters. Thus,
Jesse James would be a 12th level fighter and benefit as one.
Armor Class for the American Man
Armor class is 10 for Boot Hill characters before dexterity bonus,
etc.. However in modern times, D&D characters could come in contact
with S.W.A.T. teams or terrorists who wear modern day body armor which
could yield a low armor class.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
WEAPONRY - PAST & PRESENT
There was/is a multitude of weapons in the past and present. Table
1 lists a nice span of weaponry without getting out of control. GMs
should make changes or additions as he feels will best suit his
campaign.
Fire Rate is how many shots the weapon can fire per round. Numbers
in parentheses represents double barrels. Supply is how many bullets
can be fired from the gun before it needs reloaded. Reload Time is the
time needed to load the weapon before the weapon can be fired. Weapon
Speed Modifier is the number that is added to initiative.
Table 2 shows range and the range modifiers to THAC0. Table 3
lists a description of Weapon speed.
TABLE 1
Damage Fire Reload
Weapon S-M / L Rate Supply Time W.S.M.
.38 revolver 1d8 / 1d6 4 6 1 rd. +2
9mm pistol 1d8 / 1d6 4 8 5 seg. +2
Derringer 1d4 / 1d4 1(2) 6 1 rd. +4
Fast draw revolver 1d8 / 1d6 3 8 1 rd. +2
Rifle 2d6 / 1d10 2 2 7 seg. +4
Sawed-off shotgun 1d12 / 1d6 1(2) 1(2) 2 rd. +6
Scatter gun 1d8 / 1d6 1(2) 1(2) 2 rd. +5
Shotgun 1d10 / 1d8 1(2) 1(2) 2 rd. +6
Submachine gun 2d4 / 2d4 20 20-50 5 seg. +1
Other hand guns 1d8 / 1d6 3 6-8 1 rd. +4
Other shoulder arms 2d4 / 1d6 3 2-4 1 rd. +4
TABLE 2
Range Range Modifier
Weapon S M L S M L
.38 revolver 6 12 18 +3 +1 0
9mm pistol 6 12 18 +3 +1 0
Derringer 1 3 6 +2 +1 0
Fast draw revolver 3 7 15 +3 +1 0
Rifle 11 20 35 +3 +2 0
Sawed-off shotgun 2 6 9 +5 0 -2
Scatter gun 2 4 8 +1 0 -1
Shotgun 4 8 13 +2 0 -3
Submachine gun 7 15 20 +5 +1 -1 *
Other hand guns 5 10 15 +3 +1 0
Other shoulder arms 10 20 35 +2 +1 0
- Increase range modifiers to +8 (S), +4 (M), and 0 (L) if
fire is traversed across target.
TABLE 3: Weapon Speed Modifiers
1 - Whoosh!
2 - very fast
3 - fast
4 - average
5 - below average
6 - slow
7 - very slow
OTHER WEAPONS
Flame Thrower - Range: A line 10'-60' long. Does 8d8 points of damage
(save for half). Jellied gasoline burns for 1d6 rounds.
GRENADES, ETC.
Dynamite 4d10 pts. damage
Vial of Nitro. 6d10 pts. damage
(Civil War) Percussion Grenade 6d10 pts. damage (+1d10 Fragmentation)
WWII Hand Grenade 8d10 pts. damage (+1d20 Fragmentation)
Modern Hand Grenade 6d6 pts. damage
MINES
Land Mine - Range: 0. Does 1d10+10 points of damage upon contact.
Anybody within 3 feet suffer 1d6 fragmentation damage.
GC COMMENT: Letting these more elaborate weapons in a campaign can be
dangerous. I suggest that a GM put the players in another dimension or
time where he experience these things. This way the campaign world
doesn't get greatly effected. Of course, these weapons wouldn't kill a
world because most will run out of ammunition thus the weapons become
useless and lose their novelty. The GM just has to make sure that
characters don't get access to a great supply of ammunition or allow
the characters to manufacture their own.
I suggest you read the articles listed in the "Suggested Readings"
section for much input on the advantages, disadvantages, dangers, whys,
and hows of technology in a campaign.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
HIGH TECHNOLOGY ITEMS
SECTIONS: Energy Sources
Weapons
Phaser
Medical Supplies and Equipment
Miscellaneous Items
Control Transmitters
----------
Energy Sources
Techno-items usually require an energy cell to function as in the
case of hi-tech weapons. Below is a list of the various energy cells.
Atomic Energy Cells (A) - These are bulky, heavily-shield nuclear
batteries weighing 12 kilograms. they will hold a charge for 1000 years
if unused. Once dead, they may be recharged by replacing their Fuel
Cylinder. Replacement cylinders may be found in military supply depots
or a few nuclear power plants and factories.
Chemical Energy Cells (C) - These rechargeable batteries come in many
shapes and sizes. They lose their charge after 1 to 6 years of disuse.
Hydrogen Energy Cells (H) - Similar to Chemical Energy Cells, but are
less common. They don't lose their charge from disuse.
Solar Energy Cells (S) - These are Chemical Energy Cells fixed to a
Solar Panel so they recharge in sunlight.
Energy Cell Charger - When connected to a power source (line or
broadcast), this will recharge and Chemical or Hydrogen Energy Cell.
----------
Weapons
Type Range Damage Value Supply Power Code
Laser Pistol 3/ 6/ 9 5d6 30000 10 H D
Laser Rifle 10/20/30 6d6 36000 6 H D
Mark I Blaster 5/10/15 1d6 6000 8 H D
Mark II Blaster 5/10/15 2d6 12000 8 H D
Mark III Blaster 7/14/21 3d6 18000 8 H D
Mark IV Blaster 5/10/15 4d6 24000 8 H D
Mark V Blaster 7/14/21 5d6 30000 6 2H D
Mark VI Blaster 7/14/21 6d6 36000 6 2H D
Mark VII Blaster 7/14/21 7d6 42000 6 2H D
Mark VIII Blaster 7/14/21 8d6 48000 6 2H D
MKI Disruptor 5/10/15 1d20 20000 20 H D
MKI Disrup. Rifle 10/20/30 2d20 45000 30 H D
MKII Disruptor 10/20/30 2d20 40000 30 H D
MKII Disr. Rifle 20/40/60 4d20 85000 40 H D
MKIII Disruptor 20/40/60 4d20 80000 40 H D
MKIII Disr. Rifle 40/80/120 6d20 125000 50 H D
MKIV Disruptor 40/80/120 6d20 120000 50 H D
MKIV Disr. Rifle 80/120/240 8d20 165000 60 H D
Needler 2/ 4/ 6 * 4000 10 C D
Stun Ray Pistol 1/ 2/ 3 * 5000 10 S D
Stun Ray Rifle 3/ 6/ 9 * 7500 6 S D
Electroflail - 2d6 12000 - S D
Energy Mace - 10d6 60000 - C B
Paralysis Rod - * 3500 - CSH D
Stun Whip - * 4000 - C D
Light Saber - 8d6 48000 - H C
Vibro Dagger - 3d6 18000 - H C
Chemex Grenade - 10d6 4000 - - F
Energy Grenade - 12d6 4500 - - F
Fragment Grenade - 5d6 2500 - - F
Poison Gas Grenade - * 2500 - - F
Stun Grenade - * 3000 - - F
Tear Gas Grenade - * 2000 - - F
CDP A - 10d6 6000 - - F
CDP B - 12d6 7000 - - F
Concussion Bomb - * 7500 - - F
Fission Bomb (C) - 40d10 17000 - - F
Fission Bomb (D) - 60d10 17000 - - F
Fusion Bomb - 15d10 10000 - - F
Matter Bomb (Alpha) - 15d6 8000 - - F
Matter Bomb (Beta) - 30d6 20000 - - F
Matter Bomb (Delta) - 60d6 50000 - - F
Micro-Missile 10/30/50 7d6 30000 - - F
Mini-Missile 30/60/90 20d10 40000 - - F
Neutron Bomb - 20d10 15000 - - F
SDP - 6d6 3000 - - F
Surface Missile 1000/2000/4000 * 70000 - - F
Notes:
Range is in tens of yards. Each range category (Short, Medium, or
Long) includes attacks from distances equal to or less than the
given range. The modifiers for range are -2 for medium range and
-5 for long range. * means that the item has special effects that
are outlined in the equipment descriptions. Value is in gold
pieces. Supply is the number of shots the power cell is good for
before becoming useless. Power is the number and type of power
cell the weapon is powered by. Code is the complexity used in the
Gamma Technique.
Missile Weapons
These include a variety of weapons. All are designed to project a
beam, missile, or ray of some sort at a target in range. All need power
and ammunition to function. Hi-Tech missile weapons can be fired twice
per round and a normal attack roll is made.
Laser Weapons - Each shot sends a laser beam at the target.
Mark Blaster Weapons - Each shot sends a sonic blast at the target.
Mark I-IV are pistols and Mark V-VIII are rifles. The wielder of sonic
missile weapon doesn't make a normal "to hit" roll. Instead, the target
makes a saving throw vs. paralyzation to avoid being hit. This saving
throw is made at a bonus of +2 if the weapon is used at medium range,
or +5 if the target is at long range.
Disruptors - Each shot sends a disruption beam at its target. A
disruption beam disrupts cells in living matter causing damage to
creatures eternally. All disruptors have two settings: Standard, High
Power. Standard is as in the table. High Power allows a rate of fire of
2 shots per round, a +1d10 damage, and drains double the amount of
power (i.e. two charges).
Needler - A clip for a needler contains 10 small needles coated with a
paralysis drug (save vs. poison or become paralyzed for 5d4 rounds).
The energy cell will be used up after 30 shots. This weapon is
completely soundless.
Stun Ray Weapons - A successful shot does no damage, but knocks the
victim out for 1d20 rounds.
Energy Weapons
Some weapons combine elements of melee and missile weapons. All
are close combat weapons that can't be thrown and need power.
Electroflail - A flail made of mithril and charged with electricity.
The slightest touch cause a severe shock. The Solar Energy Cell is good
for 40 minutes.
Energy Mace - This energized club is powered by a Chemical Energy Cell
good for 20 minutes.
Paralysis Rod - This 1 yard long rod may be powered by a Chemical
Energy Cell (good for 4 hours), a Solar Energy Cell (good for 8 hours),
or a Hydrogen Energy Cell (good for 12 hours). When brought into
contact with exposed flesh (not protected by clothing, armor, etc.), it
overloads the victim's synapses, causing unconsciousness and paralysis
lasting 4d4 hours. The victim can't be awakened prematurely.
Stun Whip - The Chemical Energy Cell in this item is good for 30
minutes. A target hit by one of these 3 yard wire whips becomes
unconscious for 5d4 minutes.
Light Saber (Vibro Blade) - The handle of this device houses a the
energy cell good for 20 minutes. When in use, a blue-etched force field
forms a 1 foot blade that will cut through almost anything (GMs
discretion).
Vibro Dagger - Similar to the vibro blade, but with a blade of only
6 inches long, the vibro dagger's cell is good for 30 minutes.
Grenades
These are exploding devices usually delivered by hand. A character
should use the standard grenade-like missile combat rules. Before
throwing the grenade, the character activates it by "pulling the pin"
on it. Once the pin is pulled, the grenade automatically explodes the
next round. All characters within 9 yards of an exploding grenade are
suffer the effects of the grenade. Damage is halved if save vs.
paralyzation is made by victims.
Chemex Grenade - Creates a chemical explosion (complete with lung-
searing flame) within the area.
Energy Grenade - Releases blast of energy within the area.
Fragment Grenade - Covers the area with jagged metal chards.
Poison Gas Grenade - Spews poison gas throughout the area that hangs in
the air for 1d6 rounds (-2 if area is windy). Characters must save vs.
poison or suffer 3d6 points of damage for each round exposed to the
gas.
Stun Grenade - Spews paralysis gas that acts like poison gas, but hangs
in the air for only 1d4 rounds. also, characters are knocked
unconscious by the gas for 5d4 rounds taking no damage if a save vs
poison is failed.
Tear Gas Grenade - Spews tear gas that hangs in the air for 1d6 rounds
(-2 if area is windy). Characters make a save vs poison. Failure
indicates that the character suffers a -2 "to hit" and suffers a -1
penalty to armor class. The effects last for 3 rounds.
Bombs & Missiles
This category includes demolition charges, small warheads, and
sophisticated missiles. These items have any type of fusing device the
GM wishes (proximity, impact, heat, time delay, etc.). Most lack
delivery and guidance systems and have to be carried to the desired
spot and detonated. All characters within area of effect suffer damage.
Damage is halved if save vs. paralyzation is made by victims.
CDP A (Concentrated Damage Pack Type A) & CDP B (Concentrated Damage
Pack Type B) - A canvas backpack full of plastic explosives designed to
be placed by the bearer against a structure to be destroyed. Blast
radius is 30 yards for type A and 60 yards for type B.
Concussion bomb - A canister 10 inches long and 3 in diameter with
small "hooks" that fit various delivery systems. Has the effect of a
stun grenade, but has a 60-yard blast radius and a cloud duration of
2d6 minutes.
Fission Bomb - A black steel sphere 15 inches in diameter. Has a 1-mile
blast radius. Come in 2 versions: Clean and Dirty. The dirty bomb
causes radiation (GM decides the effects of radiation).
Fusion Bomb - A 50-inch diameter black steel disc. The blast radius is
60 feet.
Matter Bomb - A disc similar in appearance to a fusion bomb. Comes in
alpha, beta, and delta types. The alpha has a blast radius of 9 yards;
the beta has a blast radius of 30 yards; and the delta has a blast
radius of 60 yards.
Micro-Missile - A 3-inch long missile that comes complete with its own
plastic handgrip/launcher. It does a blast radius of 15 yards.
Mini-Missile - A 15-inch long missile in its own disposable, shoulder-
held launcher. It has a blast radius of 30 yards.
Neutron Bomb - A 18-inch in diameter duralloy sphere. This bomb has a
blast radius of 300 yards. The bomb only damages living beings; it
doesn't harm equipment, vehicles, or buildings.
SDP (Small Damage Pack) - A canvas bag of plastic explosives. The blast
radius is 12 yards.
Surface Missile - A slender 3 yards long cylinder, usually fixed to a
military installation, or vehicle, and directed by computers and radar
at the launch site. There are 3 types of surface missiles: neutron,
fission, an concussion. The first two are simple bomb of the
appropriate type attached to a surface missile. The latter type will do
30d10 points of damage to anyone in a 100-yard blast radius.
----------
Phaser
There are two types of phasers: Phaser I and Phaser II. Phaser I
does not have a handle and can fit easily in the palm of the hand. The
hydrogen energy cell in a Phaser I holds 50 charges. Phaser II is
larger and has a handle. The two hydrogen energy cells in a Phaser II
holds a total of 100 charges.
Type Range Charges
Phaser I 5/10/15 50 Range is given in
Phaser II 10/20/30 100 tens of yards.
A phaser is different than other weapons in that it has a setting
controls that allows various forms of damage.
SPREAD:
Normal - The wielder makes a normal "to hit" roll.
Wide - The wielder doesn't make a normal "to hit" roll. Instead, the
target makes a saving throw vs. paralyzation to avoid being hit. This
saving throw is made at a bonus of +2 if the weapon is used at medium
range, or +5 if the target is at long range.
SETTING:
The number following the setting is the number of charges that
will be drained from the battery per hit. Wide-spread attacks will
drain twice the number of charges per person affected. The setting are
as followed:
Stun (1) - Target must make a successful saving throw vs. wands or be
rendered rigidly immobile for 5d4 rounds. A save indicates that the
stun didn't affect the character this time. The ray from this setting
is blue.
1 (2) - Target suffer 1d10 points of damage, save vs. wands for half
damage. The ray color from settings 1 through 10 are various shades of
red (1 being light red, and 10 being dark red).
2 (3) - Target suffer 2d10 points of damage, save vs. wands for half
damage.
3 (4) - Target suffer 3d10 points of damage, save vs. wands for half
damage.
4 (5) - Target suffer 4d10 points of damage, save vs. wands for half
damage.
5 (6) - Target suffer 5d10 points of damage, save vs. wands for half
damage.
6 (7) - Target suffer 6d10 points of damage, save vs. wands for half
damage.
7 (8) - Target suffer 7d10 points of damage, save vs. wands for half
damage.
8 (9) - Target suffer 8d10 points of damage, save vs. wands for half
damage.
9 (10) - Target suffer 9d10 points of damage, save vs. wands for half
damage.
10 (12) - Target must save vs. death magic or die.
Maximum (14) - This setting causes matter to vanish. It affects even
matter (or energy) of a magical nature. Disintegration is
instantaneous, and its effects are permanent. Anything within the 10' X
10' X 10' cube is obliterated. A thin, green ray (no wide-spread
attack) causes physical material affected to glow and vanish leaving no
trace.
Overload (all) - This setting causes the phaser to build up energy that
surpasses safety parameters until it explodes destroying the phaser.
Phaser I has a blast radius of 25 yards and does 5d10 points of damage
to living things in the blast radius. Phaser II has a blast radius of
50 yards and does 5d20 points of damage to living things in the blast
radius.
----------
Powered Armor
Type AC Value Power Code
Energized Armor 2 75000 A E
Inertia Armor 2 110000 2A E
Powered Alloyed Plate 2 120000 A E
Powered Plate Armor 3 100000 A E
Powered Assault Armor 1 150000 3A E
Powered Attack Armor 1 150000 2A E
Powered Battle Armor 2 150000 2A E
Powered Scout Armor 2 150000 2A E
All powered armor consists of a sealed suit with a power source
that makes it function like a "second skin" when worn. Energized Armor
and Inertia Armor may function without a power source (but it will be
impossible to make jet-assisted jumps). Other types won't function
properly without a power source. They will still protect the wearer in
most cases, but their force fields (if any) won't work and the
character won't be able to move while in them. Gas doesn't penetrate
functioning powered armor since there is a 72-hour oxygen supply inside
that works independently of the armor's power system. All suits have a
2-way radio, a Medi-kit, ultraviolet and infrared sensors, and an audio
system that automatically dampens loud noises and amplifies soft noises
(wearer can make out individual sounds at 4 times the normal distance).
Energized Armor - The suit's jet-pack lets the wearer make jumps of 180
yards. It is powered by a single Atomic Energy Cell good for 40 hours.
Inertia Armor - Suit has a partial force field that can absorb up to
half of the damage (25 points of damage per round) inflicted on the
wearer. It also has a jet-pack for use in making jumps of up to 180
yards. It is powered by two Atomic Energy Cells good for 60 hours.
Powered Alloyed Plate - The single Atomic Energy Cell (good for 44
hours) gives this armor the ability to move under its own power while
worn. The wearer moves as if unburdened while carrying an additional 30
pounds and as if burden when carrying 60 pounds over his normal amount.
Powered Plate Armor is an improved version using a single Atomic Energy
Cell good for 52 hours.
Powered Assault Armor - The three Atomic Energy Cells in this suit are
good for 48 hours. While in operation, the suit provides a force field
that absorbs all damage inflicted on the wearer (50 points per round
maximum). In addition, the wearer moves as if unburdened while carrying
an additional 90 pounds and as if burden when carrying 180 pounds over
his normal amount. The wearer moves at quadruple speed and can make 30
yard jumps. Built in the finger of each hand is an independently-
powered laser pistol and built into the helmet is a micro-missile
launcher with a 20-missile clip. Built in the back of the suit is a
grenade launcher (90 meter range) with a 15 grenade clip containing
assorted grenades. The suit's powered fists do 9d6 damage.
Powered Attack Armor - The two Atomic Energy Cells in this suit are
good for 40 hours. This type is the same as the Powered Assault Armor,
but its force field absorbs 40 hit points maximum per round and the
wearer moves at triple normal speed.
Powered Battle Armor - The two Atomic Energy Cells in this suit are
good for 48 hours. This type of armor contains a force field that
absorbs all damage inflicted on the wearer (maximum of 30 hit points).
The wearer moves as if unburdened while carrying an additional 60
pounds and as if burden when carrying 120 pounds over his normal
amount. He may move at double his normal speed and make 15 yard jumps.
Powered Scout Armor - The single Atomic Energy Cell (good for 56 hours)
gives this armor the ability to move under its own power while worn.
The wearer moves as if unburdened while carrying an additional 30
pounds and as if burden when carrying 60 pounds over his normal amount.
This type of armor contains a force field that absorbs all damage
inflicted on the wearer (maximum of 20 hit points). The wearer moves at
quadruple speed and can make 30 yard jumps.
----------
Medical Supplies and Equipment
These items are labelled with a universal symbol and include
instructions for use (that will be indecipherable to most characters).
The labelling system will let characters easily recognize all types of
medical equipment and supplies once they encounter any example of that
of equipment or material.
Accelera Dose - A 6-inch long disposable jet spray tube of a compound
developed to accelerate healing. Characters who spray the compound
under their skin immediately heal 1d10 points of damage.
Cur-In Dose - A 6-inch long disposable jet spray tube of a substance
that breaks down most chemicals not normally found in the human body.
If taken within 30 seconds of exposure to a drug or poison, the user
experiences no effect from the drug or poison.
Interra Shot - A 6-inch long disposable jet spray tube containing a
sort of "truth serum" that opens the subconscious to direct
interrogation. If affected, the character answers all questions
truthfully for 10 minutes and then forgets the interrogation.
Medi-Kit - A 3X6X12-inch metal and plastic box that can be hung on a
belt for transportation. A micro-computer in the unit controls sensors
that analyze medical problems in any subject it scans. The unit is held
next to the skin when a scan is desired. If a character wants the kit
to heal a wound, he holds it over the trauma area. The kit
automatically sutures wounds, injects anti-toxins and antibiotics
(where needed) and even gives simple instructions on how to perform
operations. It will also spray antiseptic dressings on treated wounds.
Kits are powered by a Chemical Energy Cell and keep functioning as long
as their drug banks are full. There are about 4 treatments per drug
bank for each type of problem the kit is designed to handle.
Replacement banks (with built-in power cells) will be found in military
depots and chemical plants. Medi-kits will never inject anyone with a
substance (Accelera Dose, for example) poisonous to the patient. They
heal 1d10+20 points of damage. The average Medi-kit heals 2d20+200
points of damage before exhausting its drugs banks.
Mind Booster - A 6-inch long disposable jet spray tube containing a
compound that enhances metal functioning. The user's intelligence is
increased by 3 for one hour after taking the compound. However, he must
rest for four hours immediately after the drug wears off or he will
permanently lose 3 points from his intelligence.
Poison Antidote - A 6-inch long disposable jet spray tube containing an
antidote for each type of poison. If used on someone within 30 seconds
of exposure to poison, the antidote may save him from damage or death.
Each type of antidote always work for each type of poison. If an
antidote is for another type of poison, it has a 50% chance of working
on the poison the user was exposed to. The chance is modified by +10%
for each level the antidote is above the poison and -10% for each level
below it is below the poison.
Stim Dose - A 6-inch long disposable jet spray tube containing a
special stimulant that doubles the user's speed, increases his
dexterity by 1 and increases strength by 3 for a period of one hour.
The user must rest for eight hours immediately after the dose wears
off.
Suggestion Change Drug - A 6-inch long disposable jet spray tube
containing a hypnotic drug that puts the user in a trance for 10
minutes. While hypnotized, the user may be given instructions that he
will follow literally for the next four hours, including instructions
to take orders from another character. Once out of the drug's trance,
the user will only subconsciously remember his instructions.
----------
Miscellaneous Items
Auto-analyzer/Tricorder - This hand computer/scanner/data transfer
mechanism is most often used to analyze life forms and natural
phenomenon. The character using it must make an intelligence check for
each use to obtain the information he desires, although the GM may
determine that the intelligence check is only needed when seeking a
particularly complex piece of information. If the check is successful,
the player may ask the GM 1-6 simple or yes/no questions.
The analyzer can also be set up to act as an alarm, with 100 yard
range. The analyzer can work via a computer link-up or with a variety
of data chips that can be inserted.
The analyzer runs on a Hydrogen Energy Cell that will allow it to
function continuously for 18 hours.
Universal Translator - This small computer translates a multitude of
languages. It comes in a variety of forms, sometimes as an item of
jewelry, a small rod, an ear plug, an ear implant transmitting to a
computer elsewhere, etc.. When in use, the device is generally
undetectable (with the exception that the speaker's lips move like he
was in a Japanese martial-arts movie).
The device works best when languages are preprogramed into it. In
order to use a language not programed into it, the translator must
"derive the language matrix". To derive a basic matrix, the translator
needs to be exposed to the language for several minutes, then as time
progresses the language base will improve.
Communications Sender - This is a short range communications device. It
resembles a 20 by 10 by 5 inch black box with a small tv screen in one
side. The Chemical Energy Cell powering the device is good for 40
hours. Messages can be sent or received at a 100-mile range.
Communicators - These palm-sized plastic boxes fold out to display a
dial used to direct a signal in any direction. They allow users to
communicate over a 4-mile range. In some cases, communicators will only
respond to signals from other units tied into a particular network.
Each has a Chemical Energy Cell good for 200 hours.
----------
Control Transmitters
A control transmitter appears to be a small speaker, with a jack
that connects it to a sonic generator. The device allows commands to be
given to a specific type of creature of animal or less intelligence.
Each time a command is given to a particular type of creature, a 6-
sided die is rolled. If a 6 isn't rolled, the creature obeys its
command. If a 6 is rolled, the creature goes mad and will attack the
users of the device if possible. After the device has backfired, it
cannot be used with the same species again, but functions normally with
other species. Below is a listing of the various transmitters:
Type Color
Mammal red
Fish blue
Insect yellow
Reptile white
Plant green
Robot/Android black
----------
GC COMMENT: See the comment in "Weaponry - Past & Present".
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
THE CARLSON SYSTEM TO FIREARMS
BY MARC CARLSON
MISCELLANEOUS HOUSE RULES
1) 10 attacks per round is the maximum allowed, except where Fighter
Level/Attack bonus is used. The character may well be able to perform
200 attacks per round, but for playability purposes only 10 per round
is allowed.
2) Two handed attacks double the number of attacks per round, but still
may not exceed 10 attacks per round (see rule #1).
3) Spells, items, and technological effects that are "Instantaneous"
engage in the segment AFTER they are cast or used.
4) Spells, items, and technological effects that are NOT
"Instantaneous" engage in the first segment of the next round after
they are cast or used.
5) Called shots must be made on a natural +5 or better than the number
needed to hit. Called shots must be announced before they are
attempted. A called shot that strikes as a "20", or a critical hit,
will be counted as a called shot only.
6) The "Automatic Called Shot" proficiency means that the character
must make a "called shot" type roll if they intend on hitting anywhere
else but the agreed upon Called shot location. For example, a gunman
with "auto-called shot" for the gun hand, will automatically hit his
opponent's gun hand regardless, unless they are actively trying to hit
somewhere else (as a called shot).
7) Reloading a magazine requires 1 round per magazine. The actual
changing out of a full magazine for an empty one only takes a fraction
of a segment and may incur no penalty if the character has prepared to
do so, in advance. Weapons that do not have easily reloaded magazines
include Mausers, Bold Action Rifles, Revolvers, etc.. An additional
round may be required to reload.
8) If a character is struck by a bullet, they must make a save vs.
petrifaction or be stunned for a number of rounds equal to the number
by which they missed the roll.
9) If firing on a target that is quickly acquired while the weapon is
out, and the character is prepared to fire - roll a perception roll
(Wisdom check, whatever) to determine if the target is actually
"acquired" or "locked on to." If target is acquired the attack is made
at a -0, if not the attack is made as per "Unprepared shot" (i.e., -5
to hit).
HIT CHART
TABLE: Gun Exact Hit Chart
Roll Location
01-03 Head -- Mortal Wound.
04 Head -- Save vs Shock at a -10.
05 Neck -- Mortal Wound.
06-10 Right Arm
11 Right Arm -- Mortal Wound.
12-13 Right Hand
14-19 Left Arm
20 Left Arm -- Mortal Wound.
21-22 Left Hand
23-34 Chest
35-44 Chest -- Internal Damage. Double Damage. *
45-54 Chest -- Serious Internal Damage. Triple Damage. *
55-56 Chest -- Mortal Wound.
57-59 Abdomen
60-64 Abdomen -- Internal Damage. Double Damage. *
65-70 Abdomen -- Serious Internal Damage. Triple Damage. *
71-72 Abdomen -- Mortal Wound.
73-84 Right Leg
85 Right Leg -- Mortal Wound.
86 Right Foot
87-98 Left Leg
99 Left Leg -- Mortal Wound.
00 Left Foot
- Chances are good for a gory, lingering death with these wounds.
PROFICIENCIES
Characters may "spend" experience points already earned to "buy"
new proficiencies and maneuvers. This may not be enough to send them
below the amount needed to maintain t heir current level.
TABLE: Proficiencies
Proficiency
Proficiency XP Cost Slots
Martial Arts proficiency 20,000 1
Martial Arts specialization (See Weapons Specialization)
A Martial Arts Style 20,000 1
Each new special maneuver 20,000 1
Each new weapon proficiency 20,000 1
Each New Skill (to 20% minimum) 20,000 1
Tight Weapons Group 40,000 2
Broad weapons Group 60,000 3
Weapons specialization +1 (40%) 120,000 2
+2 (60%) 320,000 3
+3 (80%) 500,000 4
Ranged Weapons special. +1 (40%) 120,000 3
+2 (60%) 320,000 4
+3 (80%) 500,000 5
Fighting Style Specialization
Single Weapon 20,000 1
Two Hand Weapon 20,000 1
Weapon/Shield 20,000 1
Two Weapons 20,000 1
Take only half damage from wounds 500,000 -
Special Maneuvers 20,000 1
SPECIAL MANUEVERS
- Attacking a Moving target - 1/2 penalty
- Attacking while Moving - 1/2 penalty
- Automatic, specific "Called Shot" - no penalty
- Claw Weapons
- Double length of Medium Range for proficient weapons
- Draw Second - Role the attack as per Fast Draw, but there is no
penalty for allowing an opponant to draw first. At worst,
simultaneous attack occurs. Must have Hipshoot, and Fastdraw.
- Drawing a specific weapon/attacking - no penalty
- Hipshooting
- Sleeve Draw
- Sword Draw
- Fanning - Revolver multiple fire per round. 1/2 penalty.
- "Fast Draw" - Must have "Hipshoot" first. Roll 1d10 to determine
segment attack occurs in (+dexterity adjustment for missle, etc.).
Nothing may occur earlier than first segment. If both occur
simultaneously, roll separate inititatives for each.)
"Fast Draw" Modifiers - 20,000 or 1 prof. slot for each +1.
- "Off Hand" Weapon use (Single weapon style) - no penalty
- Shoulder Arms at +1 speed factor.
- "Snapshot" - Fire a missle weapon, then move up to 1/10th movement
rate during the same combat segment. May also be used to move
(1/20th), fire, then move (1/20th) again in the segment. The only
penalty for Snapshot is "Unprepared shot".
- Speed loading (a specific missle weapons) - 3 segments, no penalty
COMBAT
All modifiers are cumulative for hit determination. Armor class of
the target is determined as per normal combat. Silencers half range.
RANGE: Pont Blank +1
Short +0
Medium -2
Long -5
Extra-Long -7
Steadied Shot (1 handed weapon held two handed) +1
Braced Shot (Weapon is at rest on an object) +2
Handedness, 1 hand (for a weapon needing 2) -2
Wrong Hand -2
Wound in Gun Arm -5
Serious Wound in Gun Arm -10
Firing two weapons simultaneously -6
Aiming/Prepared Shot (takes full round of inaction) +1
Unprepared shot (i.e. Snapshot, Hipshooting, etc.) -5
Shot on an "Acquired Target" 0
Shooter has lost HP less than 50% of total -1
Shooter has lost HP greater than 50% of total -4
TABLE: To Hit
Weapon Speed Max Same Changing
Speed Factor ROF/R Target Target Initiative
VS 8-13 1/2 -10 -15 +10
S 6-7 1 -5 -10 +5
BA 5 2 -3 -5 +3
A 4 3 -2 -3 +0
F 2-3 3 -1 -2 -5
VF 1 3 -0 -1 -10
"First Shot Determination and Initiative"
Drawing From Holster (Draw and Fire proficiency needed)
Coat pocket, same side +3
Coat pocket, wrong side +6
Cross Draw, Hip +2
Cross Draw, Shoulder Holster +2
Hip Holster, Open +1
Hip Holster, Open, Worn High +3
Hip Holster, Closed +4
Waistband, Front +2
Waistband, Back +3
Wrist Flip Holster +1
Attached to Belt (Phaser) +2
Gun in hand, Prepared +0
Gun in hand, Unprepared +2
Surprise
Opponent given 1st move +2
Character is surprised +10
SELECTED WEAPONS
Based in part on work using the 3D system. Assumed Average HP is 30,
based on a statistical study of 250 characters from a variety of
sources.
Range in Yards
Cal Name Type PB S M L VL WSM ROF AMMO DV
.39 Handcannon ss-m 2 3 8 33 128 vs 1 1 10
.45 Smoothbore Musket ss-f 2 3 8 33 666 s 1 1 10
.47 Handcannon ss-m 2 3 8 33 128 vs 1 1 10
.50 "Snaphaunce" ss-f 2 3 8 33 666 s 1 1 10 c.1550
.54 Arquebus ss-m 2 16 67 210 833 vs 1 1 10 c.1350
.54 Matchlock ss-m 2 3 8 33 128 s 1 1 10 c.1450
.54 Wheelock ss-w 2 3 8 33 128 s 1 1 10 c.1520
.69 Matchlock ss-m 2 3 8 33 666 s 1 1 16 c.1415
.69 "Tannenburg" ss-m 2 16 67 210 833 vs 1 1 16 c.1399
19th Century Weapons
.22 "Derringer" ss-c 1 3 8 10 15 a 1 1,2,4 9
.22 Revolver rv 3 8 50 115 1500 a 1 6 8
.25 Early Auto sa/c 3 8 50 115 1500 f 1 5 12
.30 Revolver rv 3 8 50 115 1500 a 1 6 9
.30 Early Auto sa/c 3 8 50 115 1500 f 1 5 16*
.32 Revolver 6 10
.35 Early Auto 8 12
.36 Revolver 6 12
.38 Revolver 6 15
.38 "Derringer" 1 20
.44 Revolver 6 20-24
.45 Revolver 6 18-20
* .30 cal Early Automatics include Mausers etc, that used a
variety of Rifle Round.
Rifles
.303 Bolt Action ba 3 8 100 200 3000 a 1 5 28
.44 Lever Action m 2 10 34
.45 Single Shot 1 1 42
.50 Single Shot 1 1 50
Early 20th Century
.22 Automatic 6 9
.22 Revolver 6 7
.30 Automatic 6 13
.30 Revolver 6 10
.32 Automatic 6 13
.32 Revolver 6 10
.35 Automatic 6 13-18
.38 Automatic 6 13
.38 Revolver 6 10
.44 Revolver 6 12
.45 Automatic 6 14
.45 Revolver 6 12
Late 20th Century
.15 "Golden Gun" ss 3 8 50 115 1500 f 1 1 12
.22 Automatic 6 13
.22 Revolver 6 11
.30 Automatic 6 17
.30 Revolver 6 15
.32 Automatic 6 13
.32 Revolver 6 15
.35 Automatic 6 13-18
.357 Revolver 6 24
.38 Automatic 6 17
.38 Revolver 6 15
.44 Revolver 6 13
.44 Automagnum 7 36
.45 Automatic 6 18
.45 Revolver 6 16
Rifles
.22 Lever Action 8 21
.22 M-16 ab/c 10 16 233 666 6666 F 10 20,30 49
.30 AK-47 10 30 54
.303 Bolt Action 1 5 28
.465 H&H Royal Double 1 2 80
.60 H&H Nitro Double Express 1 2 100
Shot Guns
These are considered area of effect attacks. They do not need a
proficiency to use, and the only "to hit" needed is to make certain the
gundoes not jam.
A line 100 yards long:
DV: 0' - 40 DV
3y 40
6y 20
12y 10
24y 5
48y 3
96y 1
(Sawed off) A cone 10 yards long:
DV: 0' - 40 DV
1y 40
2y 10
4y 5
8y 3
10y 1
Heavy Arms
Burst Fire
Short x2 damage (of 1 round) +1 to hit
Extended x10 damage (of 1 round) +2 to hit.
Spray Fire x2 damage -5 (Save versus shot gun).
.303 Maxim at/c 10 16 233 666 6666 A 600 250Belt 30
.45 Gatling 600 50 42
.30 M60 LMG 250Belt 60
.50 M2 Browning 250Belt 100
Flame Thrower
AOF/Range: A line 10-60' long
DV: 64 Save for half.
Jellied gasoline burns for 1d6 r.
Land Mine
Range: 0
DV: 20 at 0', -1/1' away from the blast. No save.
Claymore Mine
AOF/Range: 2 cones; 1 - 60 degr in front x 6'high
2 - 30 degr behind, half range
DV: 0' - 500 DV
10' 500
20' 300
40' 150
80' 75
160' 40
320' 20
640' 10
Stick of dynamite
DV: 40
Vial Nitro
DV: 60
WWII Handgrenade
DV: 80 (+ 1d20 Fragmentation)
Modern Handgrenade
DV: 60
(Civil War) Haynes "Excelsior" Percussion Grenade
DV: 60 (+ 1d10 Fragmentation)
Futuristic Weaponry
Max Pow/Ammo
Range ROF Stor DV Notes
9mm Advanced Combat Rifle 6666 1 20 36
9mm AdvCombat Rifle SABOT 6666 1 20 24
Barsoomian Radium Pistol 6666 2 12 40 Exploding Bullets
"Electric Rifle" 1667 1 40 28 (Space 1889 Gauss Rifle)
Gause Rifle 16667 1 40 30
"Klingon Plasma Cannon" 6666 1 5 120 with energy pack
"Hand Beamer" - Laser 1667 1 5 20
Laser Pistol (Early Fed.) 833 1 20 40/10 (DV 40, save for 10)
"Blaster pistol" 833 1 10 16
"Blaster" (Apokolips) Std. 833 1 10 25
"Blaster", Hvy 833 1 10 64
"Blaster", XHvy 833 1 10 144
Dalembert Blaster 833 1 25 38 + 1d6 rad.
Athenacorp Gazi Blaster 833 1 20 38 + 1d6 rad.
Svortza Blaster 833 1 20 38 + 1d6 rad.
MKI Klingon Disruptor 1667 1 25 38/12
MKI Disruptor Rifle 1667 1 25 38/12
MKII Disruptor (STTOS) 20
Standard Setting 6666 1 38/12
High Power 1667 2 D/25 Disintegrate 250 lbs
MKIII Hand Disruptor (STTNG) 25
Standard Setting 6666 1 38/12
High Power 1667 2 D/25 Disintegrate 250 lbs
MKIV Disruptor Rifle (STTNG) 55
Standard Setting 6666 1 38/12
High Power 1667 2 D/25 Disintegrate 250 lbs
MKI Phaser/Phaser I (TOS) 20
1. Stun, Lt. 833 1 38*/12* Paralysed for d10 rd
2. Stun. 833 2 38*/12* Unconscious, 2d10+10 rd
3. Stun. 833 3 38*/12* Unconscious, 3d10+20 rd
4. Stun, Wide Angle 833 4 38*/12* Unconscious, 2d10+10 rd
5. Stun, Heavy 833 2 60*/20* Uncons. 6d6 hours,
Save vs. Death or receive
permanent nerve damage
6. Heat 3 2 40/20 (7000 F)
7. Weld/Cut 1 1 50/25
8. Disrupt/Kill 833 2 75/20
9. Dematerialize 333 4 D/25 Disintegrate 250 lbs
0. Overload 50y blast radius DV 10,000 in blast radius
MKI Phaser/Phaser I/Civilian Model 20
1. Stun, Lt. 833 1 38*/12* Paralysed for d10 min.
2. Stun. 833 2 38*/12* Unconscious, 2d10+10 rd
3. Stun. 833 3 38*/12* Unconscious, 3d10+20 rd
4. Stun, Wide Angle 833 4 38*/12* Unconscious, 2d10+10 rd
5. Stun, Heavy 833 2 60*/20* Uncons. 6d6 hours, Save
vs. Death or receive permanent
nerve damage
6. Heat 3 2 40/20 (7000 F)
7. Weld/Cut 1 1 50/25
MKII Phaser/Phaser II (TOS) 35
1. Stun, Lt. 833 1 38*/12* Paralysed for d10 min.
2. Stun. 833 2 38*/12* Unconscious, 2d10+10 rd
3. Stun. 833 3 38*/12* Unconscious, 3d10+20 rd
4. Stun, Wide Angle 833 4 38*/12* Unconscious, 2d10+10 rd
5. Stun, Heavy 833 2 60*/20* Uncons. 6d6 hours, Save
vs. Death or receive permanent
nerve damage
6. Heat 3 2 40/20 (7000 F)
7. Weld/Cut 1 1 50/25
8. Disrupt/Kill 833 2 75/20
9. Dematerialize 333 4 D/25 Disintegrate 300 lbs)
0. Overload 150y blast radius DV 1,000,000 in blast radius
MKIII Phaser/Phaser Rifle (TOS) 50
Stun. 833 2 38*/12* Unconscious, 2d10+10 rd
Stun, Wide Angle 833 4 38*/12* Unconscious, 2d10+10 rd
Stun, Heavy 833 2 60*/20* Uncons. 6d6 hours, Save
vs. Death or receive permanent
nerve damage
Heat 3 2 40/20 (7000 F)
Disrupt/Kill 833 2 75/20
Dematerialize 333 4 D/50 Disintegrate 500 lbs
Overload 150y blast radius DV 1,000,000 in blast radius
MKI Phaser/Phaser 1B (Movies) 20
Stun. 833 2 40*/15* Unconscious, 2d10+10 rd
Stun, Wide Angle 833 4 40*/15* Unconscious, 2d10+10 rd
Stun, Heavy 833 2 65*/25* Uncons. 6d6 hours, Save
vs. Death or receive permanent
nerve damage
Heat 3 2 60/30 (7000 F)
Disrupt/Kill 833 2 80/30
Dematerialize 333 4 D/30 Disintegrate 300 lbs
Overload 50y blast radius DV 10,000 in blast radius
MKII Phaser/Phaser 2B (Movies) 40
Stun. 833 2 40*/15* Unconscious, 2d10+10 rd
Stun, Wide Angle 833 4 40*/15* Unconscious, 2d10+10 rd
Stun, Heavy 833 2 65*/25* Uncons. 6d6 hours, Save
vs. Death or receive permanent
nerve damage
Heat 3 2 60/30 (7000 F)
Disrupt/Kill 833 2 80/30
Dematerialize 333 4 D/50 Disintegrate 500 lbs
Overload 150y blast radius DV 1,000,000 in blast radius
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
16 ARCANE ANSWERS TO GUNPOWDER
1) Shield (1st Wiz): provides x armor class to all projectiles and/or
+n to ac/save.
2) Affect Normal Fires (1st Wiz): would either make the powder fizzle
and smoke or flash and explode the weapon (as well as give quite an
extra oomph to the projectile.
3) Fire Trap (4th Wiz, 2nd Pr): arcane equivalent to black powder (you
can't say a charge of black powder in any muzzle loading infantry
personal/squad weapon actually causes more of a blast than 1d4+7 with a
5' radius (minimum damage for a mage of level enough to cast the
spell).
4) Web (2nd Wiz): no missile attacks at individuals completely caught
in web and no missile attacks through web.
5) Produce Flame (2nd Pr): throw a palm full of fire, flammable
objects, powder kegs, primers, loaded guns, unmixed sulfur, saltpeter,
charcoal, powder horns, body, clothes, hair of gunners, etc..
6) Fireball (3rd Wiz): PHOOOOOOOOOOOM!
7) Wall Of Fire (4th Wiz): see Fireball.
8) Lightening Bolt (3rd Wiz): see Fireball.
9) Dancing Lights (1st Wiz): cast it at the powder store house and see
them run (it can look like a group with torches).
10) Mirror Image (2nd Wiz): go ahead... hit me (doesn't work to well
against shotgun or especially chain or volley fire for that matter).
11) Grease (1st Wiz): flammable coating all over those peasants (low
save) with firearms.
12) Wall Of Fog (1st Wiz): go ahead-shoot your mud!
13) Flaming Sphere (2nd Wiz): see Fireball.
14) Melf's Acid Arrow (2nd Wiz): for spiking a canon.
15) Gust Of Wind (3rd Wiz): bad for long distance targeting.
16) Protection From Normal Missiles (3rd Wiz): protects from siege
weapons.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
NON-WEAPON PROFICIENCIES
# of Slots Relevant Check
Proficiency Required Ability Modifier
Cowboy Cool 1 Charisma 0
Fan Shooting 1 Dexterity 0
Fast Draw 1 Dexterity 0
Hip Shooting 1 Dexterity 0
Repair Cimarron Six-Shooter 1 Intelligence 0
Speed Loading 1 Dexterity 0
Sharpshooting 1 Dexterity 0
Cowboy Cool - This allows the user to stare down an opponent in a duel
and gain a psychological advantage. On a successful Charisma check by
the user, the opponent suffers a -2 penalty to his next to-hit roll
(and to his next Dexterity check if using the Fast Draw proficiency
below). This proficiency requires two rounds of concentration to take
effect. Cowboy Cool can also be used to negate someone else's attempt
to use Cowboy Cool or to spin one or two six-shooters on one's fingers
without dropping them.
Fan Shooting - The user attempts to shoot as many missiles (i.e.
darts, bullets, beams, etc.) as possible within one round. The extent
of success on the user's Dexterity check indicates the number of darts
that can be fired at a given combat round. A successful Dexterity check
allows at least two shots during the same round; if the Dexterity score
was beaten by 3-5 points, at least three shots in a round; 6-8, up to
four shots; 9-11. five shots; and 12 or more, all six shots. Each
successive shot suffers a cumulative -1 penalty to hit (-1 for the
first shot, -2 for the second,, etc.). Of course, this assumes that the
weapon holds six missiles.
The first shot occurs when the user should normally be allowed to
fire during the combat round (i.e. initiative). Each successive shot
will then happen in each successive segment. Fast Draw and Fan shooting
proficiencies can be used simultaneously.
Fast Draw - Upon making a successful Dexterity check, a user can shoot
before anyone else during a combat round, regardless of the original
Initiative result. If two opponents fight a duel and both use the Fast
Draw proficiency, the one who beats his Dexterity score by the highest
amount gains the initiative.
Hip Shooting - The user has the ability to shoot from the hip. The
proficiency allows the user to shoot faster, adding a +2 bonus to
Dexterity checks made for Fast Draw or Fan Shooting attempts.
Unfortunately, it is less accurate and causes a -2 penalty to hit in
both cases.
Repair Cimarron Six-Shooter - On a successful Intelligence check, the
user can repair a jammed Cimarron Six-Shooter. Each attempt takes a
full hour. He may try as many times as needed to repair the weapon. An
unmodified score of 20 causes the weapon to break permanently.
Speed Loading - For a specific missile weapon, character cuts reloading
time of weapon in half with no penalties.
Sharpshooting - On any to-hit roll of 20 or better after modifications,
the user may make an extra Dexterity check. If successful, the user
designates a a particular spot on a target to be hit by the dart. This
can be used to automatically disarm an opponent or inflict maximum
damage. Sharpshooting cannot be used with the Hip Shooting or Fan
Shooting proficiencies.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
ROGUE KIT: TECHNOLOGIST
Description: The technologist is either the fore-runner of a new
technological age or a researcher into a technology long forgotten
(dependant on the GM's campaign world). In any case, he loathes magic
and wants to rid the world of it and bring the world into a
technological age. For this reason, he is considered a rogue in
society, going against the norm (magic).
He is basically an scientist/engineer with great knowledge in a
specific field (i.e. architecture, mechanical design, smithing, etc.),
but will dabble in anything to help the advancement of technology.
Technologists must have an intelligence above 15, a wisdom above
13, strength above 12, and dexterity above 12. Although not required,
high dexterity and strength are also useful. They do not get any
experience point bonuses due to high ability scores.
Role: A technologist has a great knowledge on numerous, practical
topics that tend to be more valuable than the arcane knowledge of mages
and clerics. He will always insist that technology is the solution to
all problems and will use technology to solve problems.
A technologist will, of course, try to do a service to everyone by
attempting to get them to use his devices more often thus making
progress towards technological advancement. However, most people will
be distrustful of this technology, and won't use it. The GM should not
allow the technologist to totally reshape the world! Only in extreme
circumstances should his devices be accepted and used for any length of
time (even the scientist gets to save the day!). An example would be
where he saves a starving village by inventing a steel-bottom plow and
new irrigation procedures, that when combined with his new pumping
system, saves the people from slow, painful death.
Weapon Proficiencies: Technologists are allowed any weapon used by
thief (except under specific circumstances, see below) and prefer those
that have some degree of complexity in their use or manufacture such as
an arquebus, bow (any), crossbow (any), mancatcher, etc..
Nonweapon Proficiencies: Bonus: Engineering, Appraising, Alchemy,
Architecture, Reading/Writing. Recommended: Artistic Ability,
Blacksmithing, Brewing, Carpentry, Gem Cutting, Leather-Working,
Mining, Stonemasonry, Weaponsmithing.
Skill Progression: A technologist doesn't have the thieving skills of
Move Silently, Hide in Shadows, Detect Noise, Climb Walls, and Read
Languages. Pick Pockets, Open Locks, and Find/Remove Traps are usually
distributed evenly.
Equipment: A technologist is limited to weapons and armor of the thief
class unless they make some technical wonder of their own that is out
of these bounds. For example, they can use any armor of a type that
they have proficiently made (in the time of the campaign, things made
before don't count) because they've spent enough time with that type to
know it fairly well.
Starting funds are 10d10 x 10 gold pieces.
Special Benefits: A technologist has the abilities of a sage. His
knowledge is in a field of study; preferably something pertaining to
science. Note, that the technologist must maintain the resources that
normal sages have.
A technologist can detect the following information when within 10
feet of the particular phenomenon.
Detect secret/concealed doors 1-2 on 1d8
Detect grade or slope in passage 1-5 on 1d6
Detect new tunnel/passage construction 1-5 on 1d6
Detect unsafe walls, ceiling, and floors 1-7 on 1d10
Detect sliding/shifting walls or rooms 1-4 on 1d6
Detect stonework traps, pits, and deadfalls 1-3 on 1d6
Note that the technologist must deliberately try to make these
determinations; the information doesn't not simply spring to mind
unbidden.
A technologist gains an immunity to illusions as he progresses in
levels. As well as a saving throw, a technologist gets a 5% chance for
each level (no greater than 95%) minus the level of the illusionist to
resist the illusion. Racial adjustments are as followed: Dwarf +10,
Halfling +7, Elf +5, Half-elf 0, Human -5, Gnome -10.
The greatest and most important ability of a technologist is to
build items of the next time period (i.e. Ancient, Dark Ages, Middle
Ages, Renaissance, etc.). The GM must be aware of what time period the
current campaign is in and what the next one will be. To build an item,
the character must have the proper plans and resources to do it. The
player must submit the idea for approval to the GM. Mainly, the GM must
be sure that the technical item will not influence the campaign world
enough to throw it out of balance. If the GM rejects it, then his
decision is final and the item can't be made. If the GM accepts the
proposal, the character has the knowledge to make the item. Now, the
player must gather all pertinent information on the item (for copyright
purposes of course), if tinker gnomes have to do it then so do
technologists. Then given the proper campaign time and resources, the
item is created by the technologist.
Special Hindrances: Obviously, technologists despise magic of any kind
and will never willingly use or partake in anything magical. In fact,
they will attempt to destroy everything magical that they find.
Races: Dwarves, with their affinity for the mechanical and lack for the
magical can be technologists. Gnomes also prone to be technologists,
although most gnomes are less capable of rising above being tinker
gnomes. Elves can be technologists, but few are interested. Of course,
humans (half-elves) were born to be technologists (some sages claim
that they will master technology and eventually rule the world after
the demise of all magic).
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
MAGIC-ITEMS
Leyden Jar
Leyden Jar - A nice technological weapon that is easy to make is a
Leyden jar charged full of static electricity. The character throws it
and it breaks (it's glass) on contact, doing 1d4+level damage to
everyone within 5 feet.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
ALBUS ATER ANTE MAGICUS METALLUM
A portal to the Positive Material Plane and a portal to the
Negative Material Plane come in contact with one another on The Prime
Material Plane for an a minute instant. This confrontation causes a
massive explosion which will harm every living thing within 100 feet
(100 - 1d20 for every 10 feet away from the center of the explosion Hit
Points of Damage). Furthermore, anybody within 200 feet of the
explosion and not properly shielded will be permanently blinded by the
strange mixture of intense light and intense darkness.
The residue from this strange occurrence is a bizarre metal. The
sages and scholarly mages refer to this metal as Albus Ater Ante
Magicus Metallum. Common folk prefer the terms A.M. or Threatom. The
metal has only been found deep within the earth. The portal collisions
may take place elsewhere but all evidence (i.e. residue) so far shows
that it is limited to the earth (possibly some strange link to the
Elemental Plane of Earth, but there is no evidence of this). The amount
of the metal found is usually around one ton.
The metal is unique in that it is the only metal known to change
colors naturally (if it is accepted that the metal is created
naturally). At completely random intervals it will change from pure
white to pure black immediately. Note that each separate piece of the
metal will act independently on its color transformation.
The best (or worst) quality of the metal is its uncanny ability of
anti-magic; in essence it totally neutralizes and negates magic it
comes in contact with. First, it removes spells and spell-like effects
(including device effects, innate abilities, and mages' memorized
spells) from creatures or objects comes in direct contact with the
metal (i.e. not through clothing, armor, etc.). Second, it disrupts the
casting or use of these magical abilities if in direct contact with the
person attempting to use the abilities (i.e. mages' and clerics' spells
that are being cast would fail). Third, it destroys all magical items
that don't make a saving throw vs. disintegration for each round it is
in contact with the ability. When an item is destroyed, everybody
within a 50 feet radius must make a saving throw vs. paralyzation or
become blind for 1d6 turns. As anybody could see, this could be a very
dangerous substance indeed.
The metal can be forged into items by an extremely good blacksmith
or weaponsmith (must have a minimum of 2 slots in the proper non-weapon
proficiency). The metal's melting point is at 2000 degrees Fahrenheit,
but in other aspects it is very similar to iron. The time to forge
items from this metal is quadruple the amount for normal metals.
(GMs should be careful in introducing such a substance in his/her
campaign. Some players may take advantage of such an item and overlook
the dangers of using it.)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUGGESTED READING
Modern Monsters - DRAGON #57, BEST OF DRAGON VOL. V - The legendary Ed
Greenwood takes a look at technology in AD&D.
The City Beyond The Gate - DRAGON #100 - An adventure set in modern day
London where characters experience current technology.
High-Tech Hijinks - DRAGON #114 - Advice on using technology in your
campaign.
The Voyage of the Princess Ark Part 23 Shootout at South Gulch - DRAGON
#176 - A story that is an excellent example of a western setting in a
D&D world, but without the intervention of technology.
Sturmgeshutz and Sorcery - BEST OF THE DRAGON VOL. 1 - Gary Gygax takes
a look at AD&D and WWII.
Expedition To The Barrier Peaks - AD&D Module S3 - An adventure that
incorporates hi-tech weaponry to make adventurers' lives miserable.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SPECIAL THANKS
Scott Brogley for his 16 Arcane Answers To Gunpowder section.
Marc Carlson who sent high points of his rules he uses for gun (and
non-gun combat), which were used to make the disruptors and other
various weapons. Finally, he sent a multitude of high-tech items that
were used in the guide. Also, he gave his own house system.
Bryan J. Maloney for his great article "A Story of Fyre and Smoak:
Notes towards acceptable firearms" which was located on the network.
Darkheart Soulreaver aka Steven R. Hamby for his artificier kit that
was transformed into the Technologist Rogue Kit. Also, an unknown
person made a technologist kit that was also used in developing the one
that is presented here and the Leyden Jar item with it.
TRAIN, GM Sol Sukut for all the information in the "Schnell & Wilkes
Products". The Repeater, SPAS Scatter Gun, and ESPECIALLY the Rattlin
Gun are products of his imagination. He changed the inventors' names
and the description some.