So, I have been a GM for around 15 years, and have managed to keep HERO system in my periphery because I have always been intimidated by it's flexibility, seeming complexity, and sheer number of available material. But as I've aged I've found most other systems lacking in delivering exactly what it is that I want out of my RPG.
My homebrew setting is a dark, low fantasy and deadly world. And having recently played in a Con game set in a similar world, using the HERO system, I want to know what books/resources I should get started with.
My gaming group is wary of HERO for the same reasons as I am, so I want to start with a low complexity game, so not too many supplements.
I imagine that the HERO Fantasy book would be almost a given. But is it self contained, or do I need the Core book Vol 1 & 2?
I want my setting to make use of several different kinds of magic systems: channeling, summoning, blood magic, alchemy etc, and I want it to feature a gritty combat style that will lead to permanent or long lasting injuries, but also to be incremental (meaning that you can acquire/inflict such a wound before killing your opponent).
I would also like a cinematic element that would give some narrative ability to the players, such as spending one of a limited number of available "fate" points to change some aspect of the game play.
What sorts of resources are available for me? I'm just a little overwhelmed by the sheer volume of available content for HERO.
Thanks in advance!
Tim
