Looking for players for a new PBEM Champions campaign.

[djday38]

Hi guys,

I am soon going to start a new Champions PBEM campaign and am looking for players.
The game will be set deeply in the published champions universe making use of all the supplements so far as well as the characters in Digital Hero.

I am looking for six players to form a superhero team in Freedom City (only the setting will be used not the Mutants & Masterminds characters) but the campaign will be very mobile visiting many other locations in the CU.

The campaign will hopefully run for a long time and I am only looking for players who would be commited for playing in the long term.

The game would run by e-mail on a weekly turnaround and I would be looking to run the game in a narrative style which takes the emphasis off the Hero system mechanics working behind the scenes.
I would take care of all dice rolling and players would receive back a main narrative describing what took place plus a secret thoughts section on information they alone know or feel. Lastly they would receive their current stats such as stun, end and body.

I am looking for a campaign much in the style of the Avengers with a team of diverse heroes coming together to from a solid team to combat threats they alone cannot handle.

Please feel free to submit characters to me at djday45@yahoo.co.uk

I am looking for characters to be deeply embedded within the current CU which means I want hunteds, contacts etc to make use of published villains and hero's.

To help you create suitable characters fr the campaign i will give you a little more info of what I am looking for.

The camapign's tone will be a mix of silver and bronze age, again think 1970's and 1980's Avengers comics for a good guide.

Characters should be standard (200 base plus 150 disadvantages). I will not put set limits on character generation but I will say I would like to see plenty of skills (including some just to round out a character) a few contacts and well rounded characters powers wise, not one trick ponies.

The more background you can give me on the character the better, origin (again tie this into the CU as much as possible) personality, tactics, supporting cast (again try to come up with at least a couple of supporting characters), costume and clearly explained powers.

All the superhero archetypes are welcome, but in the final mix of characters I will be loking for a wide range of types.

So if you are intrested please feel free to contact me on the mail address above if you have any questions or to submit characters.

rgds
Dean

[ch0wyunf47]

Sounds cool and all, and it might just be me, but I would expect to find this in the "Player Finder" section...

[Zed-F]

What if one is not that familiar with the CU, doesn't have the supplements, etc.?

[GenreFiend]

I have the same question as Zed-F. I'm slightly familiar with the CU, but I would have to know much more than I do to create a character that deeply embedded into it.

[djday38]

No problem, mail me and we can go from there. If your not sure who to link your character to, just give me some options and I will come back with some info for you.

rgds
Dean

[Zed-F]

Ok... I am building a character right now & it would be nice to get some use out of her. It's a pretty complex character with lots of different abilities; the problem (other than that I don't know CU) is that she's built on 200 points. Also because of her conception she has limited life experience, and thus doesn't have many skills yet (she has 25 points worth of skills/perks, but it's mostly a lot of 8- familiarities.) Because of how complex the character is it would take a considerable amount of effort to rescale the character for 350 points, besides which I want to finish the 200 point version first.

What I would want to do is submit her at the lower power level, and then at some point during the game, invoke a "radiation accident" or some other plot device to scale her up to a more appropriate power level. Does that sound fair?

[djday38]

That sounds very fair. Nice change to see someone wanting less points for their character conception.

Mail me with the character when your done.

rgds
Dean

[Zed-F]

Minor note, it may make more sense to upgrade to 350 points in stages rather than all at once, depending on the rationale. We will see.

Do you want the character info in HTML, RTF, or Excel? I don't have Hero Designer. Also, I may send it to you in stages as I complete it, depending on how quickly things get rolling.

Also, you say "I will not put set limits on character generation" but players will need to have some sort of an idea of what kinds of power levels they should be expecting, especially in terms of attacks/defenses. For instance, in my case, I have geared the character mostly toward a 60 AP campaign, and while she has a couple powers that can overstep those bounds, I have put some superfluous limitations on them so that they don't get used often (i.e. I'm not saving any points by having these limitations, they are to preserve campaign balance.) However, if I'm regularly going to be going up against substantially tougher opposition that my regular 60AP attacks won't significantly hurt, I should probably remove those controls for the purposes of this game.

[Enforcer84]

I'm interested, do you need a HD character sheet? I can send one.

[ch0wyunf47]

good question, which is one I forgot to ask in my emails.

I built my char w/ 75-point AP's, but at the same time, my defenses aren't that high. I just kinda went with creation and left myself open to adjustment without destroying the character.

Yeah, it look slike I'll be joining in as well :)

My char is a sort-of mystic/batman type character, loosely based (personality wise) on characters from Tony Hillerman' s novels (An amalgam of Joe Leaphorn and Jim Chee in some ways). I didn't really know what to do for team base or vehicles either, so I just went with a character who doesn't have a lot in the way of resources, and just relies on his skills and abilities.

Once I'm done editing the background and everything I will put the link up for people to gander at.

[Agent X]

Is there still room?

[djday38]

Originally posted by Zed-F
Minor note, it may make more sense to upgrade to 350 points in stages rather than all at once, depending on the rationale. We will see.

Do you want the character info in HTML, RTF, or Excel? I don't have Hero Designer. Also, I may send it to you in stages as I complete it, depending on how quickly things get rolling.

Also, you say "I will not put set limits on character generation" but players will need to have some sort of an idea of what kinds of power levels they should be expecting, especially in terms of attacks/defenses. For instance, in my case, I have geared the character mostly toward a 60 AP campaign, and while she has a couple powers that can overstep those bounds, I have put some superfluous limitations on them so that they don't get used often (i.e. I'm not saving any points by having these limitations, they are to preserve campaign balance.) However, if I'm regularly going to be going up against substantially tougher opposition that my regular 60AP attacks won't significantly hurt, I should probably remove those controls for the purposes of this game.


Send over the character in what you prefer, I will convert the character over to HD (anyone with HD can send them over using that program would save me some time).

You will be coming up against some tough opposition but 12-15 dice in your primary attacks should be plenty. As I said before pls ensure you have multiple options in combat.

Defenses really depend on the character conception and type but nothing too extreme .


rgds
Dean

[djday38]

Originally posted by Agent X
Is there still room?

Yes but it's filling up fast. Depending on acceptance of peoples characters (Get them in fast guys).

I am taking six players for now and I will see how that goes for
some time but I am also happy to take "guest stars" for certain story arcs
and maybe increase the player base as we go.

rgs
Dean

[djday38]

Originally posted by Enforcer84
I'm interested, do you need a HD character sheet? I can send one.

A HD sheet would be great if possible, bur don't worry too much about it.

rgds
Dean

[Agent X]

I just sent Screaming Eagle to you.:)

He's 90+% there. I left some room for feedback from you.

[Zed-F]

Originally posted by djday38
Send over the character in what you prefer, I will convert the character over to HD (anyone with HD can send them over using that program would save me some time).

You will be coming up against some tough opposition but 12-15 dice in your primary attacks should be plenty. As I said before pls ensure you have multiple options in combat.

Defenses really depend on the character conception and type but nothing too extreme .


rgds
Dean

Ok. Multiple attack options is not a problem, I just wanted to know how strong to make them. Defenses will vary depending on circumstance but I doubt you'll have much problem with them (especially since I'm giving up 150 points to everyone else...) :)

I'll send you a 1st installment on the character tonight.

[ch0wyunf47]

<a href=http://www.rit.edu/~beb2017/champs/earthdancer.html> This is my character.</a>

I don't really know about how public you wanted the characters to be Dean, but I don't really have a problem with it, plus I'd like to get some feedback from everyone. It's a little big to just post in here, but it's all HTML.

um...yeah, feedback's much appreciated :)

[Zed-F]

Quick note for you, ch0wyunf47, regarding activation... according to FREd p.181, activation applies on every turn a constant power is in effect. To better simulate what you are trying to achieve, you should probably use RSR instead. Once a constant/persistent power is activated using a skill roll, it remains activated with no further skill rolls required.

If it were me, I'd take some side effects to go along with that activation/RSR... but that's just me. :)

[Agent X]

Are there any common gadgets the group should buy together; communicators, computer donation, base donation, vehicle donation?

[Enforcer84]

CHaracter deleted I'll wait to post him...

[djday38]

Originally posted by Agent X
Are there any common gadgets the group should buy together; communicators, computer donation, base donation, vehicle donation?

Not at the moment, questions like funding, equipment and bases will come up during play and will be resolved and decided by you guys as we go.

rgds
Dean

[ch0wyunf47]

Zed-

Thanks for the feedback. You're probably right about the RSR. I wish I could figure out what "FREd" meant, but that's okay. It's been a while since I've done a mage-type.

As for side-effects, I've been on the fence on that one since I came up with the concept. Typically, a shaman's ways (think of them as spells, I guess) don't really involve negative side-effects. There's definitely a skill involved, and it certainly can fail to work, although to my knowledge failure does not mean something bad will happen. That's not to say that a side-effect of his mutant powers could be the cause...

When I have the books in front of me again, I will go back and edit that stuff. Maybe I'll have more than just 1 point left over :).

As for team resources and what not, I am all for everyone contributing to something. I'm just wondering if there is some outside force gathering us together, or if there's an adventure to be played in which we all meet at some big event and choose to team up. I have zero probelms spending points, but my character certainly doesn't have a good rationale (he's a PI, and his wife's a beat-cop... there's not a whole lot of money in that). What does the GM think?

[djday38]

As for team resources and what not, I am all for everyone contributing to something. I'm just wondering if there is some outside force gathering us together, or if there's an adventure to be played in which we all meet at some big event and choose to team up. I have zero probelms spending points, but my character certainly doesn't have a good rationale (he's a PI, and his wife's a beat-cop... there's not a whole lot of money in that). What does the GM think? [/B][/QUOTE]


Yep, the first story arc will be when the characters first meet, but how and when I will keep to myself till we start.

rgds
Dean

[Broblawsky]

Is there still a slot left?

[Gary Ciaramella]

Hey there... I just sent a submission for a slot in the game. I do hope there is one left, I am really interested in playing! :)

[Zed-F]

Thanks for the feedback. You're probably right about the RSR. I wish I could figure out what "FREd" meant, but that's okay. It's been a while since I've done a mage-type.
FREd is the Fifth Revised Edition rules, i.e. the main rulebook.

[ch0wyunf47]

Interesting... the "R" for "revised" kinda threw me off... I kinda just threw the activation in as a representation of the somewhat randomness of getting things going, and just did it from memory... That'll teach me.

Anyhow... any other suggestions design wise from anyone? Something glaringly cheesy or missing?

Thanks again!

[Zed-F]

Originally posted by ch0wyunf47
Anyhow... any other suggestions design wise from anyone? Something glaringly cheesy or missing?

Hmm. Well, there are some stylistic differences to the way I would do things, but I don't want to go overboard on making suggestions. I'll just point out a couple concerns/things to think about.

1) Your 1st two attacks are combo attacks. I would be concerned that each individual component won't be suffiicient to have much effect. For instance, take Winter blast... if the average campaign damage is in the 12-15 DC range, how much effect will a 9 DC attack have on typical defenses? How many opponents will not have an attack that will easily remove a weak entangle? I personally would rather have a variety of campaign average or better (12-15 DC) attacks that each do one thing well.

2) A couple things to consider are (a) how to handle an opponent that doesn't seem to be much affected by your regular attacks, and (b) how to handle large groups of weaker enemies. Your snake bite seems to be designed with the former situation in mind, but I don't see anything that allows the latter. OTOH, you can partially offset that with spreading an EB for area, if you have a high enough DC attack that you can afford the loss of DC, assuming the special effects allow it. (Can you spread a bear charge across multiple hexes? If you can't, then the beam limitation (-1/4) might be appropriate. What about bouncing?) You can also decide that you will rely on your team-mates to handle mass combat situations if you prefer.

3) Most of your attacks are high-end cost attacks; even your DI requires paying END for the DI in addition to paying END for the STR when you attack. This is perhaps acceptable in a brawl with a smallish number of strong opponents, but probably won't work in a protracted battle. You might consider having at least one attack to fall back on that you can use for a full turn without exceeding the amount you can recover at the end of the turn; e.g. you might buy a slightly weaker Body of Stone with 0 END cost instead of 1/4 END cost, and buy 1/2 END cost on all your strength instead of just the DI strength.

Incidentally, Aid doesn't cost END to use. I'm not certain but I don't think Healing does either.

[ch0wyunf47]

All valid thoughts.

My biggest concern was his inability to re-charge his END while in stone form. I had tried to give him a high as REC as possible, to off-set the high END costs of his attacks. I'm thinking of adding a AOE Entangle to maybe try and handle the large group of weaker enemies, as I envisioned him taking on a batman-esque role in FC, taking on thugs and low-end supers a lot more than large groups of relatively high powered supers, and such a power would not only be useful, but likely.

I admit, his attacks lack a little 'punch' for 75 AP, and I might change the effects of his biggest attack. The -1/4 of it being a summoned bear is entirely unneccessary, but just a spell I envisioned.

Again, I will work on this more when i have a book handy :)

[Gary Ciaramella]

This is the character I sent in... that do you guys think?

<font size=+1><b>Touch</b></font>

Player: Gary Ciaramella

<table cellpadding="0" border="0"><tr><td align="right"><font size=2><b>Val&#160;&#160;</b></font></td><td><font size=2><b>Char&#160;&#160;&#160;</b></font></td><td><font size=2><b>Cost</b></font></td></tr><tr><td align="right"><font size=2>10&#160;&#160;</font></td><td><font size=2><b>STR</b></font></td><td><font size=2>0</font></td></tr><tr><td align="right"><font size=2>20&#160;&#160;</font></td><td><font size=2><b>DEX</b></font></td><td><font size=2>30</font></td></tr><tr><td align="right"><font size=2>18&#160;&#160;</font></td><td><font size=2><b>CON</b></font></td><td><font size=2>16</font></td></tr><tr><td align="right"><font size=2>10&#160;&#160;</font></td><td><font size=2><b>BODY</b></font></td><td><font size=2>0</font></td></tr><tr><td align="right"><font size=2>13&#160;&#160;</font></td><td><font size=2><b>INT</b></font></td><td><font size=2>3</font></td></tr><tr><td align="right"><font size=2>18&#160;&#160;</font></td><td><font size=2><b>EGO</b></font></td><td><font size=2>16</font></td></tr><tr><td align="right"><font size=2>15&#160;&#160;</font></td><td><font size=2><b>PRE</b></font></td><td><font size=2>5</font></td></tr><tr><td align="right"><font size=2>18&#160;&#160;</font></td><td><font size=2><b>COM</b></font></td><td><font size=2>4</font></td></tr><tr><td><font size=2></font></td><td><font size=2>&#160;</font></td><td><font size=2></font></td></tr><tr><td align="right"><font size=2>4/30&#160;&#160;</font></td><td><font size=2><b>PD</b></font></td><td><font size=2>2</font></td></tr><tr><td align="right"><font size=2>4/10&#160;&#160;</font></td><td><font size=2><b>ED</b></font></td><td><font size=2>0</font></td></tr><tr><td align="right"><font size=2>4&#160;&#160;</font></td><td><font size=2><b>SPD</b></font></td><td><font size=2>10</font></td></tr><tr><td align="right"><font size=2>6&#160;&#160;</font></td><td><font size=2><b>REC</b></font></td><td><font size=2>0</font></td></tr><tr><td align="right"><font size=2>36&#160;&#160;</font></td><td><font size=2><b>END</b></font></td><td><font size=2>0</font></td></tr><tr><td align="right"><font size=2>24&#160;&#160;</font></td><td><font size=2><b>STUN</b></font></td><td><font size=2>0</font></td></tr><td><font size=2></font></td><td><font size=2>&#160;</font></td><td><font size=2></font></td></tr><tr><td align="right"><font size=2>6"&#160;&#160;</font></td><td><font size=2><b>RUN</b></font></td><td><font size=2>0</font></td></tr><tr><td align="right"><font size=2>2"&#160;&#160;</font></td><td><font size=2><b>SWIM</b></font></td><td><font size=2>0</font></td></tr><tr><td align="right"><font size=2>27"&#160;&#160;</font></td><td><font size=2><b>LEAP</b></font></td><td><font size=2>0</font></td></tr></table><b>Characteristics Cost:</b> 86

<table border="0" cellpadding="0"><tr><td align="right"><b>Cost&#160;&#160;</b></td><td><b>Power</b></td><td align="right"><b>END</b></td></tr><tr><td align="right" valign="top">90&#160;&#160;</td><td><b><i>Telekinesis Attacks: </i></b>Multipower, 90-point reserve&#160;</td><td valign="top" align="right"></td></tr><tr><td align="right" valign="top">9u&#160;&#160;</td><td>1) Telekinesis (40 STR), Fine Manipulation, 1/2 END (+1/4)&#160;</td><td valign="top" align="right">3</td></tr><tr><td align="right" valign="top">4u&#160;&#160;</td><td>2) +50 STR, 1/2 END (+1/4); No Figured Characteristics (-1/2)&#160;</td><td valign="top" align="right">2</td></tr><tr><td align="right" valign="top">9u&#160;&#160;</td><td>3) Missile Deflection (Bullets & Shrapnel), Reflection At Any Target, Ranged Full Range (+1)&#160;</td><td valign="top" align="right"></td></tr><tr><td align="right" valign="top">7u&#160;&#160;</td><td>4) Tunneling 6" through 12 DEF material (Fill In), 1/2 END (+1/4)&#160;</td><td valign="top" align="right">3</td></tr><tr><td align="right" valign="top">&#160;&#160;</td><td>&#160;</td><td valign="top" align="right"></td></tr><tr><td align="right" valign="top">15&#160;&#160;</td><td><b><i>Telekinetic Defenses: </i></b>Elemental Control, 30-point powers&#160;</td><td valign="top" align="right"></td></tr><tr><td align="right" valign="top">12&#160;&#160;</td><td>1) 50% Resistant Phyical Energy Reduction; Costs 1/2 END (-1/4) [<b>Notes:</b> HD wouldn't allow Reduced Endurance (1/2 End) for a power bought with Costs Endurance. But Steve said that Costs 1/2 Endurance is an allowable -1/4 limitation. I assigned Costs Endurance at the -1/4 level and changed the lable.]&#160;</td><td valign="top" align="right">1</td></tr><tr><td align="right" valign="top">15&#160;&#160;</td><td>2) Force Field (24 PD), 1/2 END (+1/4)&#160;</td><td valign="top" align="right">1</td></tr><tr><td align="right" valign="top">&#160;&#160;</td><td>&#160;</td><td valign="top" align="right"></td></tr><tr><td align="right" valign="top">20&#160;&#160;</td><td><b><i>Telekinetic Movement: </i></b>Multipower, 20-point reserve&#160;</td><td valign="top" align="right"></td></tr><tr><td align="right" valign="top">2u&#160;&#160;</td><td>1) Leaping +15" (27" forward, 13 1/2" upward) (Accurate)&#160;</td><td valign="top" align="right">2</td></tr><tr><td align="right" valign="top">2u&#160;&#160;</td><td>2) Flight 10"&#160;</td><td valign="top" align="right">2</td></tr><tr><td align="right" valign="top">&#160;&#160;</td><td>&#160;</td><td valign="top" align="right"></td></tr><tr><td align="right" valign="top">6&#160;&#160;</td><td><b><i>Trained Mind: </i></b>+6 Mental Defense (10 points total)&#160;</td><td valign="top" align="right"></td></tr><tr><td align="right" valign="top">12&#160;&#160;</td><td><b><i>Can "Hear" background mental noise.: </i></b>Detect Thoughts 12-, Range, Sense&#160;</td><td valign="top" align="right"></td></tr><tr><td align="right" valign="top">5&#160;&#160;</td><td><b><i>Psionically Sensative: </i></b>Mental Awareness&#160;</td><td valign="top" align="right"></td></tr><tr><td align="right" valign="top">&#160;&#160;</td><td>&#160;</td><td valign="top" align="right"></td></tr><tr><td align="right" valign="top">8&#160;&#160;</td><td><b><i>Reflective & Insulated Costume: </i></b>Armor (2 PD/6 ED); OIF (-1/2)&#160;</td><td valign="top" align="right"></td></tr></table><b>Powers Cost:</b> 216


<table cellpadding="0" border="0"><tr><td align="right"><b>Cost&#160;&#160;</b></td><td><b>Skill</b></td></tr><tr><td valign="top" align="right">3&#160;&#160;</td><td>Breakfall 13-&#160;</td></tr><tr><td valign="top" align="right">9&#160;&#160;</td><td>+3 with Telekinesis Attacks&#160;</td></tr><tr><td valign="top" align="right">3&#160;&#160;</td><td>Concealment 12-&#160;</td></tr><tr><td valign="top" align="right">3&#160;&#160;</td><td>KS: Art History (INT-based) 12-&#160;</td></tr><tr><td valign="top" align="right">2&#160;&#160;</td><td>Language: French (fluent conversation)&#160;</td></tr><tr><td valign="top" align="right">3&#160;&#160;</td><td>Paramedics 12-&#160;</td></tr><tr><td valign="top" align="right">8&#160;&#160;</td><td>PS: Artist (DEX-based) 18-&#160;</td></tr><tr><td valign="top" align="right">3&#160;&#160;</td><td>Shadowing 12-&#160;</td></tr><tr><td valign="top" align="right">3&#160;&#160;</td><td>Stealth 13-&#160;</td></tr><tr><td valign="top" align="right">3&#160;&#160;</td><td>Teamwork 13-&#160;</td></tr></table><b>Skills Cost: </b>40

<table cellpadding="0" border="0"><tr><td align="right"><b>Cost&#160;&#160;</b></td><td><b>Perk</b></td></tr><tr><td valign="top" align="right">4&#160;&#160;</td><td><b><i>Professor Ryan Kennedy</i></b> (Contact has significant Contacts of his own, Good relationship with Contact) 11-&#160;</td></tr><tr><td valign="top" align="right">4&#160;&#160;</td><td><b><i>Claremont Academy</i></b> (Contact has useful Skills or resources, Good relationship with Contact) 11-&#160;</td></tr></table><b>Perks Cost:</b> 8



<b>Total Character Cost:</b> 350

<table cellpadding="0" border="0"><tr><td align="right"><b>Val&#160;&#160;</b></td><td><b>Disadvantages</b></td></tr><tr><td valign="top" align="right">10&#160;&#160;</td><td>Distinctive Features (Mutant): (Not Concealable; Always Noticed and Causes Major Reaction; Detectable Only By Unusual Senses)&#160;</td></tr><tr><td valign="top" align="right">25&#160;&#160;</td><td>Hunted: Institute For Human Advancement 8- (Mo Pow; Harshly Punish; PC has a Public ID or is otherwise very easy to find; Extensive Non-Combat Influence)&#160;</td></tr><tr><td valign="top" align="right">20&#160;&#160;</td><td>Hunted: PSI 8- (Mo Pow; Harshly Punish; PC has a Public ID or is otherwise very easy to find)&#160;</td></tr><tr><td valign="top" align="right">10&#160;&#160;</td><td>Physical Limitation: Weirdness Magnet (Infrequently; Greatly)&#160;</td></tr><tr><td valign="top" align="right">10&#160;&#160;</td><td>Psychological Limitation: Afraid of Energy Attacks (Common; Moderate)&#160;</td></tr><tr><td valign="top" align="right">10&#160;&#160;</td><td>Psychological Limitation: Headstrong (Common; Moderate)&#160;</td></tr><tr><td valign="top" align="right">20&#160;&#160;</td><td>Psychological Limitation: Takes Her Responsibilities Seriously (Very Common; Strong)&#160;</td></tr><tr><td valign="top" align="right">15&#160;&#160;</td><td>Psychological Limitation: Will not "Murder" (Uncommon; Total)&#160;</td></tr><tr><td valign="top" align="right">10&#160;&#160;</td><td>Social Limitation: Public Identity (Occasionally (8-), Major)&#160;</td></tr><tr><td valign="top" align="right">20&#160;&#160;</td><td>Normal Characteristic Maxima&#160;</td></tr></table>
<b>Disadvantage Points:</b> 150

<b>Base Points:</b> 200
<b>Experience Required:</b> 0
<b>Total Experience Available:</b> 0
<b>Experience Unspent:</b> 0

[Zed-F]

Here's my initial impressions:

1) A 90-point multipower with no limitations on the AP reserve? Ouch!!! IMHO, multipowers are best used with built-in limitations, often significant ones. If your powers are so flexible that you don't have any set limitations, you're often better off to go with a VPP. This will let you change your powers from session to session (or even more frequently) as you come up with new ideas for powers, and won't cost a lot more. Of course you will have to take time to change your powers into account unless you take the relevant advantages.

2) The character has a low SPD, low-middling CV, low energy defenses, low CON and STUN, and modest special defenses. He might be able to survive against purely physical attacks, but is weak otherwise. I expect he will be on his back a lot.

[Agent X]

Djday38, did you get my submission?

[Zed-F]

In fact, if you can post player and character names for everyone that you have received characters for, that would be great... I think we have more potential players than you originally asked for.

[eepjr24]

Methinks that perhaps our intrepid GM got a few more responses than anticipated. Give him a bit to sort it all out and get back to people, it has after all only been one day. :)

- Ernie

[assault]

I have to say that its interesting looking at the couple of characters that have been publically submitted.

I'm not in a position to join a PBEM game at the moment, but I still whiled a way a couple of spare hours wondering what kind of character I would play if I was. It turned out that I only have a fairly small pool of character conceptions that I would be happy playing. I was therefore positively impressed that the couple of characters that were posted were entirely different. Better yet, of course, they weren't particularly more formidable than my own designs, although they were probably a little more flexible than many of my designs tend to be.

My character designs are still reasonably "state of the art". How reassuring. I probably need to work on the flexibility side a bit, though. Hmm...

Alan

[ch0wyunf47]

Regarding flexibility I've realized a flaw of my own in character creation. I hesitate to make a 'check-list' hero type, but at the same time fear being too limited. I want my characters to have room to grow, but at the same time don't want them to be too weak to begin with.

What happens is that they're somewhat homogonized. Tough, but not too tough. Generally have a movement-power and defenses that are up all the time. Have a close and short trange options in combat...

I was very tempted to go with one of my frist characters that I played. He was a 250-pt, originally, and he was a ton of fun. Just a straight up 50STR brick. I think with the sort-of reorganized power structure of having 350 point characters, at least for me, it's actually limited my characer development.

The short of it is, don't worry too much about flexibility. It's being not good enough at your focus that you should worry about.

*starts re-working multipower....*

[djday38]

I am sorting through all the submssions at the moment, will get back later tonight with full details.

rgds
Dean

[Zed-F]

Originally posted by assault
My character designs are still reasonably "state of the art". How reassuring. I probably need to work on the flexibility side a bit, though. Hmm...

If you want some character designs to compare to your style to look at, check out the character posting thread here: http://www.herogames.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=3205

Or, you can look at the Enforcers thread here: http://www.herogames.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=6160

The latter is mostly villains/mercenaries though, and they can usually get away with a more unidimensional approach. I generally prefer heroes to have a good balance of powers.

There may be some questions regarding the design style of the submitted characters that Dean will have to deal with. For myself, I tend to buy a lot more powers on my characters, but have some substantial limitations as well -- for instance, the character I submitted makes heavy use of Focus, RSR, and Side Effect. As a result I expect she will under most circumstances be able to keep up with the above listed PCs despite being built on a lot less points, but will occasionally get hamstrung fairly badly.

We'll have to see how this plays out, and what Dean's plans are regarding making the stats of the PCs in the game public (is it encouraged, discouraged, or neither?) I was planning to post my character's stats once she's finished, which should be soon, but Dean might want me to change some stuff around or might want me to not post it, so I'll wait to hear from him first.

[eepjr24]

Originally posted by Zed-F
There may be some questions regarding the design style of the submitted characters that Dean will have to deal with. For myself, I tend to buy a lot more powers on my characters, but have some substantial limitations as well -- for instance, the character I submitted makes heavy use of Focus, RSR, and Side Effect. As a result I expect she will under most circumstances be able to keep up with the above listed PCs despite being built on a lot less points, but will occasionally get hamstrung fairly badly.

We'll have to see how this plays out, and what Dean's plans are regarding making the stats of the PCs in the game public (is it encouraged, discouraged, or neither?) I was planning to post my character's stats once she's finished, which should be soon, but Dean might want me to change some stuff around or might want me to not post it, so I'll wait to hear from him first.

On the RSR/SE/Focus, my character submission had some of that (he is pretty young as a hero), but also some "Mystery Power" points so that I can have the character discover yet unknown abilities in his arsenal. I have a list of possibles in there and I hope this flies. I too will start a but underpowered but I love the RP potential of the self discovery process.

My biggest downfall may be that I know very little about the CU, having always GM'd in my own custom universes and played in peoples who did the same. Hopefully the character concept is not too far out to be adapted. I won't post char info here because I have no idea what Dean's policy is on it (It may be part of the meet up adventure, etc).

- Ernie

[ch0wyunf47]

<a href="http://www.rit.edu/~beb2017/champs/earthdancer.html">Revised</a>.

Thoughts?

-Ben

[Zed-F]

Originally posted by ch0wyunf47
[BThoughts?[/B]

Looks fair to me. Overall I think the concept and implementation are reasonably sound.

A couple minor points...
- you probably should not have 2 powers with the same name. :) You might change the Aid to "Wolf's Stamina" or something.
- Normally when you buy reduced END cost on something that adds to another power, you're supposed to buy the advantage so it covers all of the power. (See examples of buying Reduced END on Running, for instance, or check the FAQ.) So, you would buy Reduced END on 50 STR rather than on 30 STR (but it would reduce the total END cost on STR to 2 instead of 3.) It is possible to have powers that have a Reduced END advantage add to other powers that have a different level of reduced END (see this thread: http://www.herogames.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=7623 ) but the rules seem a bit fuzzy to me. You might want to check with Dean and see if he is OK with this the way you have written it. Personally, written this way, I would let you do it, but make you pay END for your base STR before your extra totemic STR, so if you wanted to use less than 50 STR you would still wind up paying most of the END cost up front.
- You still have an uneven split in your base PD/ED values left over from when you had the DI power. Is that intentional?

[ch0wyunf47]

<hr>
- you probably should not have 2 powers with the same name. You might change the Aid to "Wolf's Stamina" or something.
<hr>
That was actually intentional. Eventually, he will be able to bestow his totems onto other chars with further aids/transforms. They're supposed to be similar, although seperate, powers.

<hr>
- Normally when you buy reduced END cost on something that adds to another power, you're supposed to buy the advantage so it covers all of the power.
<hr>
Again, intentional. The intent was that his STR 20 is his 'normal', mutant STR. The Totemic powers are meant to be low end abilities that have to be turned 'on' and 'off'. That's part of the reason there was never an activatoin on the EC.

Also, everything with this character is pending approval. He's kind-of vague in his power definition/description, and it's based on uncommon knowledge (how many of y'all are really familiar with Navajo and Hopi theology/mysticism?)

<hr>
- You still have an uneven split in your base PD/ED values left over from when you had the DI power. Is that intentional?
<hr>
Yet again, this is intentional. He's always supposed to have been better suited for taking on energy throwers than bricks. However, it does bring up the fact that 20 pd won't do him much good against another big 'un. I might add some DI to the Bear's Strength (Bears <i>are</i> heavy :) )

Thanks!

[assault]

My only thought is that characters with his kind of character conception actually make good checklist characters, and it's good to have a checklist character around. Just because I don't play them myself doesn't mean that I don't appreciate them!

Your multipower would be a good place to stick some odd powers ("spells"). Some thoughts that come to mind: mental powers, illusions and other stealth stuff. Outside the multipower: enhanced senses and other little odd bits. Maybe you could add some "odd" bits as your character gains experience points.

The character as written is a pretty standard energy blaster. This is fine - EBs are useful.

It's a funny thing, isn't it - PC hero teams are seldom designed to be a coherent whole. Everyone picks their own character conceptions, and team balance isn't really a consideration. It's even worse when characters are submitted anonymously...

Hmm, if I was designing a team from scratch, what would it be like? First four members (in no particular order): brick, EB, mentalist, martial artist/speedster. Next two (in no order): gadgeteer, checklist character. Next: probably another brick - possibly a suit of powered armour.

Yeah, that would be nice. I'd play the first brick. :)

Alan

[ch0wyunf47]

Yeah, there's a secondary reason i posted my char. It's good to know what's out there. If the GM doesn't want a team built as a team, that's fine, we'll just have to work around it somehow, or luck out and have a good balance :)

At the same time, my char can go pretty much any way. I could focus on being a bear, and work that angle, and I could focus on being a blaster. Right now I'm more of a blaster, and hopefully that won't ruinate us in the early goings. Weird powers will be easy to add, thanks to the mpower and the concept. Enhanced senses were on the checklist, but as a secondary function, and got cut in the end.

Touch appears to be a good 'brick' of sorts, though a little bit suceptable to someone like my char. Dunno about anyone else, really.

As for building a team, your suggestion seems to be a popular model. The thing is, most campaigns i've been involved with have been 3 person teams. This makes for some interesting challenges. Let's see, the last group I was in had a move-through guy in power armour, a blaster, a martial-artist and a brick. I guess that's pretty standard, but lacking a mystic of sorts.

we'll see how things go :)

[assault]

Originally posted by ch0wyunf47
The thing is, most campaigns i've been involved with have been 3 person teams. This makes for some interesting challenges. Let's see, the last group I was in had a move-through guy in power armour, a blaster, a martial-artist and a brick. I guess that's pretty standard, but lacking a mystic of sorts.

Yeah. I think there is a bit of a breakpoint between 3 and 4 person teams. I'm not too stressed about balance in 3 person teams, as long as there is some kind of investigator.

Classic comic book examples would be:
Batman, Superman, (Robin or someone else).
Green Arrow, Green Lantern, (Black Canary or Speedy).
Power Man, Iron Fist, (someone else).
A bunch of mystics.

All EB or all Brick teams would be a problem. Gadgeteers, checklists and telekinetics are all handy.

I forgot telekinetics in my wish list. That's another good hybrid category: EBs with brickish or mentalist sidelines. They also can have really useful things like forcewalls, which are nice for "innocent protection".

EBs and mentalists with a bit of martial arts are nice too.

In a small group, then, I'd pick a mix of bricks, martial artists, telekinetics, checklists, and gadgeteers, each with some significant non-combat areas of expertise. Pure combat monsters wouldn't be particularly useful. The brick, or possibly the Teke, would probably be the closest to this.

So you might have, for example:
Brick, martial artist, telekinetic.

The Teke would cover the mentalist and EB slots, and might be replaced by a mystic checklist. The martial artist might double as a gadgeteer. All would have at least some investigative skills, although those of a mystic/checklist might be oriented towards the "mystic" field, and those of a martial artist/gadgeteer might be science-heavy. That leaves the brick as the investigator! That's fine. Or you could shuffle things about a little.

You would lose a bit in power, but the flexibility would be more useful, as long as the GM wasn't a munchkin who was going to keep throwing you into singleminded combat scenarios.

But then, a munchkin GM is going to kill the game, regardless of what else happens. A more difficult situation would be if you have munchkin players... Oh well.

Alan

[Agent X]

The character I proposed is a sonic blaster who likes to stay in flight. He also can wing buffet for a nifty (though not overwhelming) melee attack.

From a role-playing angle he is a legacy character, son of Kestrel from 5th Ed. and Max Bowman from 4th Ed. and trained by American Eagle II from the VOICE module and 4th Ed. Champions Universe.

If Dean doesn't want anything 4th Ed. I'm sure I can oblige.

[djday38]

Right guys,
I have now sent mails to eveybody I have received characters from, either accepting them, asking for small revisons and/or a more fuller background.

If you have not received a mail from me that means for whatever reason I have not received your character.
Unless you have heard from me the game is now closed for more players (we should now have eight) and will not open again unless someone drops or is unable/unwilling to give the character revisions I have asked for (nothing massive mainly just replacing non CU hunteds and small stuff like that).

I have started a Yahoo group for the game which will help speed up the campaign and let us all talk to each other easily.

Once all the characters have been accepted I will issue invitations to join the group.

speak to you all soon
rgds
Dean

[Zed-F]

A quick note for DJ: I seem to be having a spot of trouble sending you email. I received your last email but the last couple mails I sent you have bounced. I will keep trying.

In the meantime, you have asked for a couple CU hunteds, but I'm afraid I don't know the CU universe well. Most appropriate would likely be someone who is either after her to put pressure on her father for some purpose, or who is out to prove their battlesuit is better than hers. Perhaps you can pick someone suitable. I'd prefer it be a surprise. :)

If she's to have Hunteds, I'll also have to upgrade one of her social lims.

[djday38]

Originally posted by Zed-F
A quick note for DJ: I seem to be having a spot of trouble sending you email. I received your last email but the last couple mails I sent you have bounced. I will keep trying.


Hmm, strange let me know if you keep getting the problem.


the meantime, you have asked for a couple CU hunteds, but I'm afraid I don't know the CU universe well. Most appropriate would likely be someone who is either after her to put pressure on her father for some purpose, or who is out to prove their battlesuit is better than hers. Perhaps you can pick someone suitable. I'd prefer it be a surprise. :)

fine by me, Are you ok to have a couple?

rgds
Dean

[Zed-F]

Sure, since you're the one asking for them, your call. :) How about you make up the lims and tell me what they are worth in an email. Bear in mind that she hasn't been around long enough to have acquired any really venomous enemies yet.

[Enforcer84]

Here's Skybreaker. I'm having trouble emailing hdc files.

[Agent X]

Just finished up on the background/personality/powers/quote/appearance stuff. I forgot in my E-Mail to let Dean know I'm still open to more revisions if he wants them. It will make me "no nevermind." :)

[Gary Ciaramella]

Hey Enforcer... hope you are not upset, but I downloaded the file for Skybreaker. Decent enough Supermanish kind of brick... but the real reason for this message is that your life support power name is wrong... the quote is "I have inside me blood of kings" not "things." Thou must keep holy the lyrics of Queen! :D

[Gary Ciaramella]

Here is an updated copy of my submission... a few changes to her abilities. I am aware that she has some significant areas of weakness, but if played in combat with those weaknesses in mind, I believe that she is a viable hero.

<font size=+1><b>Touch</b></font>

Player: Gary Ciaramella

<table cellpadding="0" border="0"><tr><td align="right"><font size=2><b>Val&#160;&#160;</b></font></td><td><font size=2><b>Char&#160;&#160;&#160;</b></font></td><td><font size=2><b>Cost</b></font></td></tr><tr><td align="right"><font size=2>10&#160;&#160;</font></td><td><font size=2><b>STR</b></font></td><td><font size=2>0</font></td></tr><tr><td align="right"><font size=2>20&#160;&#160;</font></td><td><font size=2><b>DEX</b></font></td><td><font size=2>30</font></td></tr><tr><td align="right"><font size=2>18&#160;&#160;</font></td><td><font size=2><b>CON</b></font></td><td><font size=2>16</font></td></tr><tr><td align="right"><font size=2>10&#160;&#160;</font></td><td><font size=2><b>BODY</b></font></td><td><font size=2>0</font></td></tr><tr><td align="right"><font size=2>13&#160;&#160;</font></td><td><font size=2><b>INT</b></font></td><td><font size=2>3</font></td></tr><tr><td align="right"><font size=2>18&#160;&#160;</font></td><td><font size=2><b>EGO</b></font></td><td><font size=2>16</font></td></tr><tr><td align="right"><font size=2>15&#160;&#160;</font></td><td><font size=2><b>PRE</b></font></td><td><font size=2>5</font></td></tr><tr><td align="right"><font size=2>16&#160;&#160;</font></td><td><font size=2><b>COM</b></font></td><td><font size=2>3</font></td></tr><tr><td><font size=2></font></td><td><font size=2>&#160;</font></td><td><font size=2></font></td></tr><tr><td align="right"><font size=2>4/30&#160;&#160;</font></td><td><font size=2><b>PD</b></font></td><td><font size=2>2</font></td></tr><tr><td align="right"><font size=2>4/12&#160;&#160;</font></td><td><font size=2><b>ED</b></font></td><td><font size=2>0</font></td></tr><tr><td align="right"><font size=2>4&#160;&#160;</font></td><td><font size=2><b>SPD</b></font></td><td><font size=2>10</font></td></tr><tr><td align="right"><font size=2>6&#160;&#160;</font></td><td><font size=2><b>REC</b></font></td><td><font size=2>0</font></td></tr><tr><td align="right"><font size=2>36&#160;&#160;</font></td><td><font size=2><b>END</b></font></td><td><font size=2>0</font></td></tr><tr><td align="right"><font size=2>24&#160;&#160;</font></td><td><font size=2><b>STUN</b></font></td><td><font size=2>0</font></td></tr><td><font size=2></font></td><td><font size=2>&#160;</font></td><td><font size=2></font></td></tr><tr><td align="right"><font size=2>6"&#160;&#160;</font></td><td><font size=2><b>RUN</b></font></td><td><font size=2>0</font></td></tr><tr><td align="right"><font size=2>2"&#160;&#160;</font></td><td><font size=2><b>SWIM</b></font></td><td><font size=2>0</font></td></tr><tr><td align="right"><font size=2>27"&#160;&#160;</font></td><td><font size=2><b>LEAP</b></font></td><td><font size=2>0</font></td></tr></table><b>Characteristics Cost:</b> 85

<table border="0" cellpadding="0"><tr><td align="right"><b>Cost&#160;&#160;</b></td><td><b>Power</b></td><td align="right"><b>END</b></td></tr><tr><td align="right" valign="top">93&#160;&#160;</td><td><b><i>Active Telekinesis Powers: </i></b>Multipower, 93-point reserve&#160;</td><td valign="top" align="right"></td></tr><tr><td align="right" valign="top">9u&#160;&#160;</td><td>1) Force Wall (15 PD; 3" long and 1" tall), 1/2 END (+1/4), Backlash (+1/2), Transparent to Energy Attacks (+1/2)&#160;</td><td valign="top" align="right">4</td></tr><tr><td align="right" valign="top">9u&#160;&#160;</td><td>2) Missile Deflection (Bullets & Shrapnel), Reflection At Any Target, Ranged Full Range (+1)&#160;</td><td valign="top" align="right"></td></tr><tr><td align="right" valign="top">4u&#160;&#160;</td><td>3) +50 STR, 1/2 END (+1/4); No Figured Characteristics (-1/2)&#160;</td><td valign="top" align="right">2</td></tr><tr><td align="right" valign="top">9u&#160;&#160;</td><td>4) Telekinesis (40 STR), Fine Manipulation, 1/2 END (+1/4)&#160;</td><td valign="top" align="right">3</td></tr><tr><td align="right" valign="top">8u&#160;&#160;</td><td>5) Tunneling 6" through 15 DEF material (Fill In), 1/2 END (+1/4)&#160;</td><td valign="top" align="right">3</td></tr><tr><td align="right" valign="top">&#160;&#160;</td><td>&#160;</td><td valign="top" align="right"></td></tr><tr><td align="right" valign="top">15&#160;&#160;</td><td><b><i>Passive Telekinetic Powers: </i></b>Elemental Control, 30-point powers&#160;</td><td valign="top" align="right"></td></tr><tr><td align="right" valign="top">12&#160;&#160;</td><td>1) 50% Resistant Phyical Energy Reduction; Costs 1/2 END (-1/4) [<b>Notes:</b> HD wouldn't allow Reduced Endurance (1/2 End) for a power bought with Costs Endurance. But Steve said that Costs 1/2 Endurance is an allowable -1/4 limitation. I assigned Costs Endurance at the -1/4 level and changed the lable. This did not change the end cost however, which is now 1.]&#160;</td><td valign="top" align="right">3</td></tr><tr><td align="right" valign="top">15&#160;&#160;</td><td>2) Force Field (24 PD), 1/2 END (+1/4)&#160;</td><td valign="top" align="right">1</td></tr><tr><td align="right" valign="top">&#160;&#160;</td><td>&#160;</td><td valign="top" align="right"></td></tr><tr><td align="right" valign="top">20&#160;&#160;</td><td><b><i>Telekinetic Movement: </i></b>Multipower, 20-point reserve&#160;</td><td valign="top" align="right"></td></tr><tr><td align="right" valign="top">2u&#160;&#160;</td><td>1) Leaping +15" (27" forward, 13 1/2" upward) (Accurate)&#160;</td><td valign="top" align="right">2</td></tr><tr><td align="right" valign="top">2u&#160;&#160;</td><td>2) Flight 10"&#160;</td><td valign="top" align="right">2</td></tr><tr><td align="right" valign="top">&#160;&#160;</td><td>&#160;</td><td valign="top" align="right"></td></tr><tr><td align="right" valign="top">6&#160;&#160;</td><td><b><i>Trained Mind: </i></b>+6 Mental Defense (10 points total)&#160;</td><td valign="top" align="right"></td></tr><tr><td align="right" valign="top">5&#160;&#160;</td><td><b><i>Psionically Sensative: </i></b>Mental Awareness&#160;</td><td valign="top" align="right"></td></tr><tr><td align="right" valign="top">&#160;&#160;</td><td>&#160;</td><td valign="top" align="right"></td></tr><tr><td align="right" valign="top">10&#160;&#160;</td><td><b><i>Reflective & Insulated Costume: </i></b>Armor (2 PD/8 ED); OIF (-1/2)&#160;</td><td valign="top" align="right"></td></tr></table><b>Powers Cost:</b> 219


<table cellpadding="0" border="0"><tr><td align="right"><b>Cost&#160;&#160;</b></td><td><b>Skill</b></td></tr><tr><td valign="top" align="right">3&#160;&#160;</td><td>Breakfall 13-&#160;</td></tr><tr><td valign="top" align="right">9&#160;&#160;</td><td>+3 with Telekinesis Attacks&#160;</td></tr><tr><td valign="top" align="right">3&#160;&#160;</td><td>Concealment 12-&#160;</td></tr><tr><td valign="top" align="right">3&#160;&#160;</td><td>KS: Art History (INT-based) 12-&#160;</td></tr><tr><td valign="top" align="right">1&#160;&#160;</td><td>Language: French (basic conversation)&#160;</td></tr><tr><td valign="top" align="right">3&#160;&#160;</td><td>Paramedics 12-&#160;</td></tr><tr><td valign="top" align="right">6&#160;&#160;</td><td>PS: Artist (DEX-based) 16-&#160;</td></tr><tr><td valign="top" align="right">3&#160;&#160;</td><td>Shadowing 12-&#160;</td></tr><tr><td valign="top" align="right">3&#160;&#160;</td><td>Stealth 13-&#160;</td></tr><tr><td valign="top" align="right">3&#160;&#160;</td><td>Teamwork 13-&#160;</td></tr></table><b>Skills Cost: </b>37

<table cellpadding="0" border="0"><tr><td align="right"><b>Cost&#160;&#160;</b></td><td><b>Perk</b></td></tr><tr><td valign="top" align="right">5&#160;&#160;</td><td>Contact (Contact has significant Contacts of his own, Very Good relationship with Contact) 11-&#160;</td></tr><tr><td valign="top" align="right">4&#160;&#160;</td><td>Contact (Contact has useful Skills or resources, Good relationship with Contact) 11-&#160;</td></tr></table><b>Perks Cost:</b> 9



<b>Total Character Cost:</b> 350

<table cellpadding="0" border="0"><tr><td align="right"><b>Val&#160;&#160;</b></td><td><b>Disadvantages</b></td></tr><tr><td valign="top" align="right">20&#160;&#160;</td><td>Dependent NPC: Jessica's Family 8- (Normal; Group DNPC: x4 DNPCs)&#160;</td></tr><tr><td valign="top" align="right">10&#160;&#160;</td><td>Distinctive Features (Mutant): (Not Concealable; Always Noticed and Causes Major Reaction; Detectable Only By Unusual Senses)&#160;</td></tr><tr><td valign="top" align="right">25&#160;&#160;</td><td>Hunted: Institute For Human Advancement 8- (Mo Pow; Harshly Punish; PC has a Public ID or is otherwise very easy to find; Extensive Non-Combat Influence)&#160;</td></tr><tr><td valign="top" align="right">20&#160;&#160;</td><td>Hunted: PSI 8- (Mo Pow; Harshly Punish; PC has a Public ID or is otherwise very easy to find)&#160;</td></tr><tr><td valign="top" align="right">10&#160;&#160;</td><td>Psychological Limitation: Afraid of Energy Attacks (Common; Moderate)&#160;</td></tr><tr><td valign="top" align="right">20&#160;&#160;</td><td>Psychological Limitation: Takes Her Responsibilities Seriously (Very Common; Strong)&#160;</td></tr><tr><td valign="top" align="right">15&#160;&#160;</td><td>Psychological Limitation: Will not "Murder" (Uncommon; Total)&#160;</td></tr><tr><td valign="top" align="right">10&#160;&#160;</td><td>Social Limitation: Public Identity (Occasionally (8-), Major)&#160;</td></tr><tr><td valign="top" align="right">20&#160;&#160;</td><td>Normal Characteristic Maxima&#160;</td></tr></table>
<b>Disadvantage Points:</b> 150

<b>Base Points:</b> 200
<b>Experience Required:</b> 0
<b>Total Experience Available:</b> 0
<b>Experience Unspent:</b> 0

[Gary Ciaramella]

Background/History:

Jessica Savage is the eldest of 3 children born to William and Shannon Savage, and was born 22 years before the current game year on February the 12th. She has a sister named Katherine (15 years old) and a brother named Brandon (13 years old). Both of Jessica's parents are teachers, William teaches high school, Shannon teaches elementary. Jessica was 16 when her mutant abilities manifested, and her mother did not react well to them at all, having her sent off to be a student at Claremont Academy. Since then, mother and daughter have rarely talked and when they have it has often led to heated arguments. While her father actually has very little problem with Jessica's abilities, the two have not had the chance to spend time together because of Shannon Savage and they likely will not either any time in the near future. Katherine has gradually grown to be even more hateful of Jessica than her mother and will not speak to Jessica at all. What is unspoken between the two is the fact that Katherine's 16th birthday is approaching and she fears greatly that she too will develop mutant abilities. Jessica's brother Brandon doesn’t have a problem with his oldest sister, but since she left the family when he was 7 years old, the bond between the two of them is not particularly strong.

Initially Jessica was resistant to being a part of the Claremont Academy, considering it a punishment by her mother for a freak act of nature that she had no control over. With time however, Jessica grew to love Academy, staying there 4 years, not leaving until she was given a full scholarship to the Freedom School for the arts. Even after being away from Claremont for more than 2 years, she maintains a good relationship with the students and faculty. Generally both Jessica and the Academy would be willing to come to the aid of the other in time of need.

Currently Jessica is in her 3rd year at FreeSA. She is well liked by her teachers, who generally believe that if she applies herself, Jessica should have a bright future as an artist. While she does very much want to do well, the combination of school and superhero activities have made it a struggle to keep her scholarship, much less excel in her studies. She does have the help of friend and faculty mentor, Professor Kennedy. The Professor is very interested in helping Jessica succeed, feeling quite paternal toward the young artist. So Jessica holds on by her fingertips, living in the dorms, tutoring with Professor Kennedy or associates that he drafts into duty, and living the life of a hero all at once… she is definitely a busy girl.

Being a young mutant psionic with a public identity has brought Jessica to the attention of both PSI and The Institute for Human Advancement. Neither organization has of yet acted to get their hands on Jessica, so she and her family has been safe up to this point.

Personality/Motivation:

Sometimes shy and quite, often angry and headstrong, Jessica is a passionate young woman. Her strong sense of duty and the demands of her hectic life often drive her to distraction. Sooner or later she will develop ulcers unless Jessica learns to relax and realizes that the world will not end if she is not at the center of it. Although it is generally agreed that Jessica means well, sometimes her point of view that she is indispensable to whatever project she is involved with rubs people the wrong way. Her big fear in life is that she will not be able to handle everything and will let down the people that count on her.

While otherwise fairly fearless in combat, Jessica knows full well that she is almost worthless against energy attacks, and thus has developed quite a fear of them. While she doesn’t panic when the EBs are flying, she will seriously think of turning and running if the situation gets too bad and the return is not large enough.

Powers/Tactics:

Touch is a telekinetic. Her powers are very effective against physical attacks, but useless against energy attacks. To compensate to a limited degree, she has taken to wearing a special reflective and insulated costume to supply her with some energy defense. Despite that, she is afraid of energy attacks and will do her best not to engage opponents who use them, leaving those targets for others.

As far as the mechanics of what her powers can do, they should be self-explanatory. She can manipulate physical objects both close up and at a distance, focusing on a single object or an area. She has practiced a great deal to be able to catch incoming attacks and reversing or redirecting their trajectory, using the oppositions attacks against them. Due to her lack of HTH combat skill, Jessica does her best to keep opponents away from her, but she can use her Telekinesis to increase her strength to amazing levels. Over time she does intend to improve her HTH skills and also improve the strength and versatility of her telekinetic powers. She already has several ideas for what she would like to try next with her powers once she figures out how to go about it.

Appearance:

Quite small when compared to many of the Amazonian women who fight crime, Jessica stands 5' 2" and weighs 105 lbs. Quite beautiful, Jessica has long red hair and green eyes and when on duty wears a skin tight silvery mirrored costume. When not on duty, Jessica wears comfortable, lightweight clothing with a definite preference for blue. The actress who most resembles her is Alicia Witt.

[Zed-F]

I would have gone with the VPP myself, but it's your character, so what's important is that you're happy with it. :)

[Enforcer84]

Originally posted by Gary Ciaramella
Hey Enforcer... hope you are not upset, but I downloaded the file for Skybreaker. Decent enough Supermanish kind of brick... but the real reason for this message is that your life support power name is wrong... the quote is "I have inside me blood of kings" not "things." Thou must keep holy the lyrics of Queen! :D

I know the lyrics. Its just that the things in his blood are not royalty.:D

[eepjr24]

Did a cityscape colage kind of thing for my character image, what do you think? File is attached.

- Ernie

[ch0wyunf47]

keen

What does he do? ;)

[eepjr24]

Originally posted by ch0wyunf47 keen

What does he do? ;)
Well, on good days, he beats up villains. =) On bad days, they beat him up. Broadly, he is a quasi martial artist with some brick leanings. Not that experienced, no team experience, will be interesting to see how he works on a team.

- Ernie

[Agent X]

What kind of base do we want?
Do we want a base with an exotic background (my vote) or one we built to our specifications?
It is possible to have really cool bases that have hunteds and mysteries: like abandoned orbiting bases, old mansions with legendary tales, magical caves, or old golden age secret bases that have been hidden away, unused for decades.

What do we want our base to be able to do?

Do we want to shell out points for personal communicators?

Do we want to develop team codes and attack strategies as we continue play?

[ch0wyunf47]

From my understanding, at the beginning of the frirst adventure we are not all a team. I designed my character to be someone very capable of operating on their own, but could adapt to a team environment with ease. I also kept some points aside to lend towards a base/vehicle/comms/what not as part of start-up, though not a ton (mostly b/c I had a hard time justifying more than 5 points worth of resources from a PI and a Cop. Maybe I could work out some endorsements? ;)). Anyhow, I think those answers will be partially determined on how we form as a team, and what the GM has in mind.

Personally, I really like the concept of some 'exotic' base, with it's own quirks (haunted mansion would be awesome... although it could be doomtacular for my char). Vehicles would be cool, but i think those should be secondary to a centralized location, that is unless the location is mad out of the way. Personal comms and tactics are also a good idea, and I plan on spending some points on the 'teamwork' skill, but only after an appropriate amount of time. I know my guy will be likely a support character in combat (blaster/healer) and can do a lot of detective work outside of combat. Tactics wise, I pretty much just go where I'm needed, and won't do a whole lot of 'taking the point'.

Anyhow, I think it's good to consider these things, but it might be a little bit early :/

[Agent X]

Originally posted by ch0wyunf47
From my understanding, at the beginning of the frirst adventure we are not all a team. I designed my character to be someone very capable of operating on their own, but could adapt to a team environment with ease. I also kept some points aside to lend towards a base/vehicle/comms/what not as part of start-up, though not a ton (mostly b/c I had a hard time justifying more than 5 points worth of resources from a PI and a Cop. Maybe I could work out some endorsements? ;)). Anyhow, I think those answers will be partially determined on how we form as a team, and what the GM has in mind.

Personally, I really like the concept of some 'exotic' base, with it's own quirks (haunted mansion would be awesome... although it could be doomtacular for my char). Vehicles would be cool, but i think those should be secondary to a centralized location, that is unless the location is mad out of the way. Personal comms and tactics are also a good idea, and I plan on spending some points on the 'teamwork' skill, but only after an appropriate amount of time. I know my guy will be likely a support character in combat (blaster/healer) and can do a lot of detective work outside of combat. Tactics wise, I pretty much just go where I'm needed, and won't do a whole lot of 'taking the point'.

Anyhow, I think it's good to consider these things, but it might be a little bit early :/ Maybe too early. It will take some planning though and it's good to have it in the back of everyone's mind. I didn't save any xp back because I didn't think everyone else would which means we would be waiting on them to "catch up." After looking at Dean's write-ups for Marvel/DC characters, I think he may want us to re-examine what he had to say about Contacts. He really likes a significant amount of points spent on contacts, at least in those write-ups.

[eepjr24]

I would like an exotic base, and could put a few points to it, esp if he lets us loan on future xp (1 per session or whatnot).

I am okay with comm's or not, whichever is norm for the campaign.

Codes and such should wait for RP, I think.

[Enforcer84]

I think we should have matching Uniforms:D

[Zed-F]

Well, points for a base are not a problem here... though I guess we'll have to wait and see what Dean has in mind for the intro scenario before we make any decisions.

I'm still not sure about how much of our characters we should be posting in advance of the game, but as my character has a public ID, your characters ought to know a bit about her before the game begins. I'll put something together and post it later today or tomorrow.

[djday38]

Hi Guys,

As a couple of people have stated you will not be a fully formed team during the first arc and will be meeting for the first time.
This means subjects such as bases, vehicles, eqipment etc will not be around at the start but will hopefully come naturally in time with the storylines we will create together.

It's never really too early to think ahead a bit and it's good to see everybody enthusiastic about the team!

Regarding my own style of write-ups regarding contacts, yep it's true I do love the occasional contact!! For me as a GM they are wonderful story tools for me and for the players.
But I have not attempted to force people to take X amount of contacts at the start, I have just tried to ensure that the characters are intergrated into the CU in many ways.

I will be awarding contacts and favours naturally as a form of XP as the campaign progresses. This also applies of course to the above mentioned base/vehicle/equipment.

The first couple of story arcs are where a team first finds it's feet and gets to know each other and it's role in the campaign. There are strong first impressions, misunderstandings, maybe even fights between members and a t the same time the teams core arch villains are defined.

Its a fun era for a superhero team and I intend for the players to enjoy it.

rgds
Dean

[djday38]

Sorry guys, I forgot to mention that I am doing a full sweep of everyone's character revisions tomorrow and hopefully will be sending out the yahoo group invitations to everyone.

One other point there have been a couple of mentions regarding how much info each player should show/know regarding characters. To be honest I think it should be up to the player concerned. Some of you like others to see your characters and comment on them, others like their creations to be mysterious and be fleshed out to the other players during play. Either option is fine by me.

Lastly over the next couple of days I hope to put together a packet of campaign information covering things such as campaign rules, the Style of turn including amoung many things writing styles, how we will handle combat and mundane things like turn deadlines and turnaround.

Rgds
Dean

[Zed-F]

A quick Google search on Dynamode reveals the following bio by a local rag:


Name: Dynamode (Olivia Roberts)
Height: 3' 9"
Weight: 27kg
Hair: Brown, pig-tails
Eyes: Hazel (green-brown)
Skin: Light olive

Olivia is an 8-year old girl with a fairly sunny and typically innocent-looking demeanor. In public, she usually dresses in childrens fashions appropriate to her age group, including pictures of popular age-appropriate TV characters and merchandise, or designer children's dresses and jewellry to more formal occasions. In private, she prefers more practical clothes, often plain jeans and a sweater. In any case, she is always well-groomed, and a bit of a clothes-horse; she can often be seen in local malls expanding her wardrobe.

Olivia is quite approachable and often appears in public, either with her father Ian Roberts, a prominent political lobbyist, philanthropist, and multi-millionaire, or in her own right as protector of the city's children. In interviews she seems quite intelligent and forthright, and responds well even to unusual questions. That doesn't mean she doesn't know how to have fun, however, as if invited to a function for children she can horse around with the best of them in her souped up powered wheelchair, known by the prosaic if unimaginitive name of Wheelie. That's by no means her only conveyance, however, and area ne'er-do-wells are well-advised to remember it, as she's also the pilot of Dynamode, and one of the city's most prominent superheroes!

Olivia was born to Ian Roberts, then-CTO of North Star International, and his fiancee Helen Waters, winner of the prestigious Emblem award for architecture for her design of the Plymouth building in Chicago. Not much is known about her childhood before the age of five, but she first came to the attention of the public with the crash of Atlantic 452 just over 3 years ago. Olivia and her mother were on that ill-fated flight, and when lightning struck it, flying debris struck both oth them, killing Helen and severely injuring Olivia. The well-documented paralysis of the lower half of her body dates from this tragic incident, but Olivia showed true fighting spirit even at the tender age of 5 and battled back remarkably well from her injuries.

The following year, Olivia entered school, and she certainly made a splash once she arrived along with her unique wheelchair, which some have speculated was designed by none other than her father, who had resigned his position with North Star upon the death of his wife. It didn't take long for her to put her wheelchair through its paces either, as within a couple months of her arrival she managed to break up the attempted rape of Melissa Whiteheart by enclosing her attacker in a force bubble (see Melissa's bestselling book, "I was saved by a 6-year-old", purchasable at Amazon.com and reputable bookstores everywhere!) She went on to help the police put the cuffs on a number of other minor criminals over the course of the school year, including recapturing the notorious pedophile Frank Warren after he broke parole, and generally made the neighborhood safe for the children of Washburn Elementary. Unfortunately, tradegy struck once again when she attempted to rescue Yolanda Trudeau from the Red Panther gang in Renfrew Park, and wound up in Whitewater Creek for her troubles, electrocuted by her own wheelchair. There she witnessed Yolanda's rape and brutal murder firsthand, and testified to it, though the police were neither able to catch the gang in the act nor gather enough evidence for a formal charge. While some criticized the police for a sloppy investigation at the time, Olivia wasn't one of them; she was too busy recovering in the hospital from her electrocution.

It wasn't until late last year that Olivia once-again re-emerged into the public eye, with the spectacular capture of the entire Red Panther gang in the projects around Bronson and Hedges. This was the first public appearance of the Dynamode armour that she pilots, and no doubt she shocked the Red Panther gang with its capabilities. Footage from the trial clearly indicates that Olivia was using the Dynamode armour in what has since been dubbed alternately as "MechaForm" or "JediForm". This is easily determined from the bluish cast of the footage and the abilities the armour displayed, including deflecting and reflecting pistol fire from the gangers when they opened fire, a force shield that frustrated a ganger stab attempt, two gangers being grabbed and slammed together from several meters away, and a lightning attack to subdue a fleeing ganger. Subsequent footage of MechaForm in action reveals that it's also capable of projecting a force sword and a wall of force, of running at speeds approaching 90 kph and astounding leaps, and possibly more. It's clear from public opinion polls that this form is by far the favourite among the populace, likely due to apparent tie-ins with a certain popular science fiction film (rumor has it that a lawsuit may be in the works,) but that's by no means the limit of the armour's capabilities!

Olivia has also been seen blazing about the city in what has been christened JetMode, which is characterized by a deep red rather than blue force shell, and by flight at incredible speeds. Olivia is easily capable of outpacing the fastest military jets in this form, with the possible exception of certain experimental aircraft whose existence the military will neither confirm or deny (see "X-22, Fact or Myth?" available at Amazon.com and quality bookstores near you!) She's also demonstrated the ability to fire precision beam weapons from several kilometers away and an amazing ability to literally shake someone into submission, as she displayed against the escaped murderer Jerald Marvolo.

Rumors abound concerning other forms that the Dynamode armour might be able to take. One that's been fairly well-documented by paparazzi has been dubbed alternately "UrchinForm" or "SquidForm" by the media, wherein the Dynamode force field carries a ghostly white hue, and takes the form of a tentacled sphere. It's not clear what powers this form might have, but what is known about it is that Olivia rarely uses it on her missions of justice, as the only footage that exists of the armour was taken by a photographer who managed to sneak into the Roberts family estate with a videocamera and take some footage before their security staff caught up with him. Current speculation is that the form is a test mode of sorts for the armour, as the footage in question was taken while Olivia was assisting her father in some sort of diagnostic test of the armour. There are yet more rumors of even stranger forms, but nothing anyone has any evidence of.

Still, even with just the well-documented Dynamode forms, it's clear that Olivia is a crime-fighting force to be reckoned with, and a heroine of no small determination and courage. Currently she operates mostly as an adjunct to the local police department as a sort of one girl SWAT team, capable of reaching the scene of a crime with great speed and greater force to put a stop to almost any crime as it unfolds. Would-be criminals beware; make a move and you can be assured that Dynamode will be there!

[Gary Ciaramella]

*singing* Fighting crime, trying to save the world, she shows up just in time, It's Dynamode-Girl! DYNAMODE!

I love it! :D

[Zed-F]

Heh, well I did say it was printed by a local rag. What do you expect? :D

[eepjr24]

Originally posted by Zed-F
Heh, well I did say it was printed by a local rag. What do you expect? :D

Well, I am not so sure my character would have seen any of that, being a recent addition to the city. Does anyone know which city we are based in yet? My write up guessed New York. We may have to wait a bit. If anyone does a search on Nundor after we meet, I will post some things that newspapers might have reported on him.

- Ernie

[Gary Ciaramella]

He is using Freedom City from Mutants & Masterminds... a good book and a good city, worth the read even if you do not play M&M.

[Zed-F]

Originally posted by eepjr24
Well, I am not so sure my character would have seen any of that, being a recent addition to the city. Does anyone know which city we are based in yet? My write up guessed New York. We may have to wait a bit. If anyone does a search on Nundor after we meet, I will post some things that newspapers might have reported on him.

- Ernie

Odds are, if you've been in the city more than a week, you will have seen something printed about her. She has a Public ID, and thus gets more than her fair share of publicity.

[Zed-F]

Well, so far looks like we have a shaman checklist, a telekinetic brick, a flying brick, a martial brick, a flying sonic blaster, and a powersuit multiform. Looks like we are leaning pretty heavily toward the physical abuse end of the spectrum. If we have 8 players, that leaves 2 more unannounced; wonder what else people are bringing?

[eepjr24]

Originally posted by Zed-F
Odds are, if you've been in the city more than a week, you will have seen something printed about her. She has a Public ID, and thus gets more than her fair share of publicity.

Well, I will let the GM rule on that, of course, but unless it was widely printed in the local spanish language paper, I doubt it. My character would be unlikely read an English language paper, although he is fluent and does read English, Spanish is his native language.

He will be in the city for however long fits Deans plans, if left up to me he will be "just off the bus", literally, the night before. He has been in another US city for a while, though, so not totally green.

I am going to be trying to step out of my typical here, I usually tend to play native English speakers, so feel free to give tips if I seem to be acting out of character.

- Ernie

[Zed-F]

Assuming the local Spanish-language paper and TV news covers the same news (i.e. crimes & stuff) the English-language papers and TV news do, he'll find out at least that much about her soon enough. Depending on how common superheroes are around the world, it's entirely possible he might have heard of her before arriving.

[djday38]

Originally posted by Gary Ciaramella
He is using Freedom City from Mutants & Masterminds... a good book and a good city, worth the read even if you do not play M&M.

Yep, It's an excellent setting, I have made some changes though. Firstly i have tried to merge it into the champions CU and secondly more radically I have Removed all of the super hero teams from the city. They still exist in various forms but have beem moved to other ciites around the states.

This is to ensure that the palyers feel like they are the center of atention in the camapaign. They are REALLY needed by the city as it has no other super powered defenders and has been seen as easy pickings by many forces of evil for quite a while. This means crime both mundane and super is rampant and the players will have their work really cut out for them to establish some kind of order.

I will guest star other heroes and hero teams of course but I want the players to have a bloody good reason to be heroic and for the stakes to be high.

I will be adding some of the excellent characters both good and bad from Freedom City and also Silver Age Sentinels and also a small smatering of personal 4th edition favs. But mostly will be using 5th edition CU.

The main two reasons I went with Freddom City is that Millennium City is so crowded with heroes, especially now the MC8 are also based there.
Secondly Freedom City has much more fine detail on the setting than does Millennium City which paints the setting in ore broad strokes.

rgds
Dean

[djday38]

Hi Guys,
I have just sent out invitations to everybody to join the campaign Yahoo group, so pls join when you can.

We have ended up with seven players which is plenty to be going on with and I am very pleased with the range of characters and the effort everybody has put into each one.

Once everybody has joined I will be asking everybody a couple of more background questions and then we will get the ball rolling!

rgds
Dean

[Agent X]

Originally posted by djday38
Hi Guys,
I have just sent out invitations to everybody to join the campaign Yahoo group, so pls join when you can.

We have ended up with seven players which is plenty to be going on with and I am very pleased with the range of characters and the effort everybody has put into each one.

Once everybody has joined I will be asking everybody a couple of more background questions and then we will get the ball rolling!

rgds
Dean Woo Hoo!