I like Sword Noir - it is a combination of sword and sorcery and film noir (hence the name). It is a system where characters are good at what they do, but they cannot do everything and they do not become super human like high level DnD characters. Characters have attributes and the game makes tests against them. A character's background, faculties and flaws gives bonuses and penalties to those tests. All characters must have a background, some faculties and a flaw. They can choose what these are and call them what they like, allowing some extra individuality to to characters.
Magic is present, but it carries a huge cost and will almost lead to madness and demonic possession (PCs might end up being NPCs). This all fits in with the setting creed, which is broken down and explained in detail to show how Sword Noir adventures should work. It shows that the system and setting of an adventure can be entwined to enhance the whole experience. Magic is not just a set of tools, but something dangerous and corrupting, in keeping with the nihilistic nature of this world. Characters are not ultra competent at everything, increasing the sense of danger.
- Characters can be made up of more than just attributes
- It is better when the system and the setting are entwined.
Ruffnut,
ReplyDeleteGood post. Will check out.
Are the forums down for you too or is it just me again?
It's down for me too.
DeleteThanks so much for the review. It's always thrilling to hear that someone not only found, but enjoyed one of my games.
ReplyDeleteIs it built on something similar to D&D's dice expectations of a 3-18 stat scale, and d20 combat?
ReplyDelete