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When we first encounter a language the GM might set an initial level based on how common it is or how likely Kezza is to have encountered it before and say there are already a few rolls counted to that language?
The system as presented is a bit binary, with 9 rolls to understand being the same as 'clueless' and then one more suddenly makes one 'fluent'. I am sure can work that into a more fluid progression.
When 3PO was interpreting for the Ewoks, the language was never encountered before (the Imperials didn’t care what the Ewoks had to think) and he referred to the other 6 million languages or forms of communication that he was familiar with (languages at 13D). He understood that they were using a primitive dialect and cross referenced it with something that was familiar and made educated guesses on how to converse with them.
I think that’s the true usage of the language skill. 3PO used his acquired expertise and programs to roll past the required difficulty.
Back when the D6 game books for Star Wars was made, alien languages were a lot more exotic. Since then, 7 movies, scores of books, video games and series have come out showing that alien characters like Wookiees, Rodians, Trandoshans, Twi’leks and even Hutts are encountered more frequently than previously thought. They are understood by others too more often than previously thought (with some exceptions).
I really don’t want to get bogged down in having everyone roll anytime a spacefaring race of people who can’t or won’t speak basic are encountered. If your character doesn’t have much experience in languages and interpretation, then roleplay it out and use it as an opportunity to learn. If your character has a professional or better understanding of languages encountered in the galaxy, then you’re good…until you’re not good. When a rare or unknown language is encountered (it will happen), then I will let you know when a roll is required.
I also think that a rare, unknown or never encountered language shouldn’t depend on a series of 9 failures or successes and then complete fluency on the tenth attempt. That really doesn’t make much sense at all. I’ve had 9+ attempts with French, Spanish and German and certainly am not fluent. It’s kind of a silly rule.
There are certain time/complexity requirements that will be figured out by me in regards to languages for fluency (for new languages not on the scene).
For example, it didn’t appear that Luke understood Chewie in episode four but did understand him in episode five. Years had passed in between the two episodes in which time he listened and interacted. Perhaps ten times, maybe twenty or more? Don’t know for sure, but time seemed to be a big factor (one of my favorite movies is the 13th Warrior; check it out if you haven’t and are interested in seeing how a Muslim during the dark ages learned how to communicate and speak with the Vikings he was traveling with over a period of time). The guy had a knack for languages but it’s still cool.
Complexity and time are big factors.
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The situation where the the characters can’t talk to somebody and need C3PO happens basically once in the movies.
Exactly. The languages skill will come into play, and just like a blaster, it may be seldom used depending on how you carry yourself, but when you need it…you really need it.