HSI: OOC Discussion

Feel free to post any out of character discussions here. I don't mind OOC comments in the game thread for game-specific questions, but I'd prefer to keep that thread clean.

Hello! Thanks for the invite. Are we using TBH 2e?

Suspect 2e. I do have one caution -- 3d6 down the line can result in some pretty wonky characters, even though TBH has a mechanism in place to deal with it. Just something to be on the lookout for, as it's one of its few (IMO) flaws...

Also, hello everyone, and thanks for inviting me, MBP!

Thanks for joining! I am using 2e. @Harrigan would you recommend 4d6 and drop the lowest? I'm wondering how that will play out over a campaign. The leveling could produce some pretty powerful characters over time. I may be overthinking. I'm good either way.

Hey all, and thanks McB for the invite!

Thanks for inviting me, McB! And lo, I find myself among prestigious company in the player's club. Really looking forward to this game!

Re: TBH stat gen, I've seen 2d6+3 suggested in TBH forums to flatten out the curve. But I happily defer to the more experienced Black Hackers.

Absolutely *not* 4d6 drop lowest! The issue is that those rare 17s and 4s and such are pretty dramatic in a roll-under game. However, I suggest we try the rolls as written first. Quite a few games also use point-buy systems, and that work well when you don't care about the dice telling you who you are...

(And 2d6+3 works well as well...)

OK. Let's run with the rolls as outlined in the book. Let me know if you are really unhappy with your rolls and we'll discuss options.

McButterpants, thoughts on us creating more than one PC? Or should we just create them as necessary if our original PCs bite the dust? Will there be a mechanism for new PCs to appear and step up, from the ship's crew or summink...

I am fine with you creating a second PC off the hop. I do have an idea on how to bring them in later if needed. We can discuss the story at the time as it'll depend on where it happens.

McButterpants, how are we defining "session" in play-by-post? The background me mechanic can be used once per session, for example.

I was thinking per encounter. I think it's an easy way to keep track of the use of that mechanic. We'd probably have two or three encounters if we were at the table or having an online session, so you're probably getting more use from it. I'll revisit this ruling if it starts to imbalance the game.

I invited Verrain as our last player. I'll close the listing. My plan is to get the game started later this week. I believe Harrigan is traveling, so no rush to get started right away.

As Len said, fine company indeed. Looking forward to seeing both Hot Springs and Black Hack in action

Even finer with you here, Verrain! Welcome aboard.

Welcome, Verrain!

Happy to be aboard. I had forgotten the days when a wizard cast his one spell and then hid behind a rock. Good times.

Welcome everyone! Thank you all for joining. I have started on the opening scene and will get it posted in the next few days. I'll review the characters tonight and let you know if i have any questions.

Action item: you will find yourselves on a supply boat from one undetermined place to another (feel free to come up with options). Given the game, i think it's best that you are explorers. You have either paid full share or half share. Both would give you a hammock or a bunk and a lock box for your things. The half share would require you to work. How do you know each other and how did you pay? What are you hoping to find in your exploration? It could be a group goal, an individual goal, or both.

I think everyone would notice Fafnir because of two things:

1. His boisterous laugh can be heard across the ship.
2. He is the most sea sick bastard on the boat. He will arrive gaunt and emaciated (this is my way of explaining why his STR/CON are lower than Harrigan's warrior 🤣)

Fafnir has paid full share but works anyway. Deep down, Fafnir is looking to explore far away places in hopes for a cure for his demon curse, but he doesn't really expect that. He's here for the adventure, to live life to the fullest.

Anyone see a connection here?