Lead Adventure Forum
Miniatures Adventure => Pikes, Muskets and Flouncy Shirts => Topic started by: stevelampon on March 11, 2019, 09:38:27 AM
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:) Hello, I posted about this project several months ago. It is now live on Kickstarter.
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/964530327/gadzooks-its-the-apocalypse
(http://www.stevenlampon.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/webPics_03.jpg)
(http://www.stevenlampon.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/webPics_03.jpg)
The Game
Gadzooks it’s the Apocalypse is a fantasy battle game set in the first half of the seventeenth century, a time of widespread warfare, religious strife and general unrest. It was a time when very bad things were happening and when people saw signs of the end of days and the coming of the Apocalypse. So we thought - that sounds like fun times lets make a game!
Each player in the game will control one character figure and a bunch of dubious looking henchmen. The character will have a detailed profile, a number of skills and qualities that can be improved upon if scenarios are survived and experience is gained. Henchmen are cheap and expendable and there are always plenty more to hire. But players should beware, evil forces are at work at every turn and as their characters grow in power, the temptation to follow the path of evil will be strong. Will characters risk their humanity by gaining sinister new powers or will they take the path of good. All will have to decide as the end time approaches.
Game Concept
Although Gadzooks is clearly a fantasy game with the emphasis on fun and entertainment, I have tried to create a game that delivers an accurate representation of warfare of the period but which also gives a glimpse of some of the religious beliefs held at the time, especially regarding the apocalyptic significance of such events as the Thirty Years War and English Civil War. Belief in witchcraft, demons and other powerful supernatural forces seemed to have been an everyday part of some people’s lives - especially those people caught up in terrifying conflicts or suffering from the effects of harsh and poorly understood natural phenomena such as famine and plague. So this game brings these forces ‘to life’ - demons and undead creatures roam the battlefield, devilish magic can be conjured by those evil enough to wield it and saints in gleaming armour can hack their way through hordes of foul demonic foes. Now that’s what I call entertainment!
Strange Fantasy
There are a few reasons why I created this strange fantasy game: I have a definite nostalgia for times spent playing Dungeons & Dragons (and this game is clearly influenced by that classic roleplaying game), I have a great fascination for the early modern era of history and there was a question that kept coming to mind - why are all classic fantasy games set during the medieval period? Would it be possible to create a fantasy game set during the dark apocalyptic days of the seventeenth century? Well my answer to that question is undoubtedly - yes. I hope that after playing this game you will agree with me too.
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Backed
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I've read it took three centuries for part of Europe to repopulate fully after the period of the Thirty Years War.
There is no war more terrible than religious war.
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Sounds interesting!
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Thanks for the interest, we are almost at 25% after 2 days. I have just posted an update on the KS page. I will repeat it here.
The Starting Force
When starting out with a new hero each player will have to gather a number of followers around their character. The followers that a character can attract are initially low grade troops, but if the hero is successful better quality troops can be hired. The choice of starting characters are: Chaplain, Assassin, Necromancer, Paladin, Demon Hunter, Ranger, Rogue, White Witch, Thief, Jäger, Blade or Diabolist.
The available Henchmen for a starting force are: Peasant, who cannot be given a weapon but can be used for fetching and carrying. Militia, with or without, a farming tool, pistol, arquebus, or musket. Brigand who can be armed with an arquebus and a short sword.
Players will have a number of Force Points that they can spend. Both sides will have equal numbers of Force Points, and players will have to agree on the number of Force Points that both are going to field. A good starting point is 30 points each, this will give a starting force of between 3-6 figures.
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The hero will have a detailed profile, a number of skills and qualities that can be improved upon if scenarios are survived and experience is gained. Henchmen are cheap and expendable and there are always plenty more to hire. If the character gains renown, better quality henchmen can be hired. Each character will have a specific profession or class that will determine the type of skills and powers that they can acquire and improve upon in time.
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Sounds cool. Soloman Kane type derring do!
Backed. Good luck with the campaign.
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I could not resist. I'm backer 24!
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:) Many thanks for the support guys, I have started posting updates which will begin to explain various aspects of the rules.
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/964530327/gadzooks-its-the-apocalypse/updates (https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/964530327/gadzooks-its-the-apocalypse/updates)
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Blackpowder fantasy is an underserved genre, interested to see this come up. (I've been kicking around Pikeman's Lament/Dragon Rampant crossover ideas but not gotten anywhere with it...)
I'm not in a position to back the Kickstarter before it ends but hope it does well!
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https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/964530327/gadzooks-its-the-apocalypse/updates (https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/964530327/gadzooks-its-the-apocalypse/updates)
Update number 3
Actions and Command
The player’s Initiative Score (see update 2), is the maximum number of actions that each figure can take for that turn, even if the hero/henchmen actually has more actions available. If a player is determined to go first and only selects '1' for initiative then every figure, hero or henchmen will only be able to perform a single action.
A single action could be: Move once, Fire an aimed shot, Fire an un-aimed shot, Reload, Open a door.
A typical starting hero will have between 3-5 actions and 1-2 commands. Henchmen have 2 actions unless 'commanded' to do 1 more by a hero to a maximum of 3 actions.
For example, a character with a Command Factor of 2 can command two subordinate figures. The character can use five actions per turn and the player has chosen a score of 5 for the Initiative this turn. The player decides to command two soldiers to make an extra move. Both soldiers have already used two actions each. The player spends two of the character’s actions to allow the soldiers an extra action each (the soldiers are moved). This leaves three actions left for the character, the player decides to move the character twice and with the third action to fire a pistol. The soldiers have now used three actions each, this does not exceed the Initiative for that turn, so this is permitted. The character has used five actions (two for command and three for the characters own use). The character can use five actions per turn and the number of actions has not exceeded the Initiative Score.
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Update 4.
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/964530327/gadzooks-its-the-apocalypse/posts/2448100 (https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/964530327/gadzooks-its-the-apocalypse/posts/2448100)
Creating a character.
The first stage is to determine the character’s family background. Players will roll 2d6, and add the scores together. The possible choices are: Criminal, Labourer or Farm Worker, Skilled Worker, Yeoman Farmer, Merchant, Gentry or Aristocracy. Each character has modifiers that affect further character abilities.
Players now have a choice about the beginnings of their character’s career. Players can choose either to have their character enroll in the army or to remain as a civilian. This second choice puts the character into the category of ‘camp follower’. Army Character Classes are: Chaplain, Rogue, Paladin, Jäger, Ranger or Blade. Camp Follower Character Classes are: Assassin, Diabolist, Necromancer, White Witch, Demon Hunter or Thief. If the player has chosen the army for their character the player must determine the character’s rank. 2d6 are rolled and the scores are added together. The score will indicate what rank their character has in the army.
Character Profile
The next stage for the player is to create the character’s profile. On page 54 is a table with all of the various character attributes that go to make up the character profile. Each player will roll 2d6 for each part of the profile, they will add the scores together and refer to the relevant table for the result.
(http://www.stevenlampon.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/KS_04.jpg)
Larger version here
http://www.stevenlampon.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/KS_04.jpg (http://www.stevenlampon.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/KS_04.jpg)
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I do love the sound of this.
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https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/964530327/gadzooks-its-the-apocalypse/updates (https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/964530327/gadzooks-its-the-apocalypse/updates)
Update 5. Shooting.
In the Gadzooks 'world' firearms are the common missile weapons that are used and these are fairly crude pistols, carbines and matchlock lock muskets. What I wanted to capture in these rules is the difference in effectiveness between these three basic types of weapons - pistols are quick to deploy and useful at close range, muskets have excellent stopping power but are slow to reload and all of these weapons become highly inaccurate over longer ranges.
When a figure tests to hit the player rolls either a d6 if firing a pistol, a d8 for firing a carbine/arquebus or a d10 when firing a musket. The score must achieve the distance in inches from the firing figure to the target to score a hit. If the figure is taking aim the player will roll 2 dice to test to hit and will add the scores together. For example a figure is firing an aimed shot with a pistol at a target that is 8 inches away, the player rolls 2d6 and adds the scores to hit - if an eight or higher is achieved the target has been hit.
If a hit is scored the player will then test for damage by rolling a d6 for a pistol, d8 for carbine or d10 for musket. The higher the score the more damage is scored. Some weapons are classified as light or heavy. Heavy weapons use one higher value die than the die rolled to test to hit when testing for damage, so for example the player will roll a d12 damage when firing a heavy musket or a d8 when firing a heavy pistol. And if a light musket is being fired the player will roll 1d10 to hit and 1d8 for damage.
Players may think then that there is little point in using a lighter weapon because of the lower damage values, however this is where the final element of firing comes in - reloading. It takes no set time or number of actions to reload a weapon that has just fired instead it is based on a die roll. After a weapon has been fired the figure must use an action to try and reload. The player will roll the weapons damage die and will try and score 5 or lower to reload. This means that is easy to reload a pistol because a 5 or lower is easy to achieve with a d6 - and consequently it is much harder to reload a heavy musket (when the player would have to score a 5 or lower on a d12. This means of course that the heavier weapons have greater impact but will be slower to reload and slower to fire again.
Rifled weapons are available in this game, these are more accurate than the usual smooth-bore weapons but take much longer to reload. When firing a rifled weapons (pistol, carbine or musket) the player will roll 2 dice to hit or 3 dice (for an aimed shot) and add the scores together - this of course has the effect of greatly increasing the effective range of the weapon. However, when it comes to reloading the rifled weapon the player will have to roll 2 dice and add the scores together and must achieve a score of 5 or lower to reload - a very difficult prospect in the heat of battle.
Of course there are modifiers that are applied to all of these die scores for experienced characters as bonuses to damage and accuracy are applied.
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I really like the sound of those shooting mechanics, very clever.
I can see my guys taking heavy guns, firing once and spending the rest of the game frustratedly trying to re-load. Love it!
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lol, some weapons are hard to reload in the heat of the moment.
Update 5 has been posted on the KS site. Close Combat.
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/964530327/gadzooks-its-the-apocalypse/posts/2449694
Here is just the first three paragraphs as it is quite lengthy.
This section describes a few rounds of close combat between a Chaplain character and three Militia figures. The Chaplain has a Combat Factor of 4, two attacks and is wearing a buff coat and breastplate (armour save 1d10). The Chaplain is armed with a hammer and benefits from a +1 Strength Bonus in combat. The Militia figures are all musket armed and are using their muskets as weapons in close combat. The Chaplain figure has the initiative and has charged into combat with the three enemy figures.
The Chaplain has used one action to charge into combat. This gives the attacking player a bonus to the character’s Combat Factor, which means it will go from 4 to 3 for the first round of combat and will gain the figure an additional +1 damage bonus. The Chaplain has two attacks in combat and so the player will roll 2d10 to hit. A score that is equal to or in excess of the character’s Combat Factor will cause a hit. The dice are rolled and a 3 and 7 are scored. This means two hits are scored because both benefit from the charge bonus, which puts the Chaplain’s Combat Factor on 3 rather than the usual 4. Now it is time for the opposing player to test for their figures in the combat.
The player controlling the Militia will roll 1d10 for each of these figures. The Militia figures have a Combat Factor of 5 and so the player will need to score 5s or higher. The player scores 2, 5 and 8 – two hits are scored. Both sides must now resolve the hits that have been scored. This must be done in the correct sequence. Because neither side has a longer weapon than the other, the sequence will be determined by the lowest scores going first.
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These updates are a great idea!
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Backed... maybe you could speak to it's potential for more than 2 players?
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:) Thanks guys, I will cover multi-player games and figure manufacturers/sources sometime in the next few updates.
Update 7. Spell Casting.
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/964530327/gadzooks-its-the-apocalypse/posts/2451585 (https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/964530327/gadzooks-its-the-apocalypse/posts/2451585)
Chaplains, Paladins, White Witches, Diabolists and Necromancers can use spells. Spells are skills that rely on spiritual or magical energy to perform wondrous, magical or divine feats that fall beyond the realms of the natural world.
Spell Test
To cast a spell the player must in most cases make a successful skill test. 1d10 is rolled and a score of 8 or higher is required for success. Added to this score is the character’s skill points. If a 1 is rolled when testing to cast the spell, this will mean that the spell fails (even if the addition of skill points to the die roll raises the score higher).
Spell Recovery
When a spell is cast it is likely that the spell caster’s reserves of magical energy will be depleted. Any spell that needs a spell test to cast means that a spell recovery test will be needed before another spell can be cast. This takes one action; the player rolls one die and must score 5 or lower to pass the test. The die rolled is the die that was used to cause the spell effect. If the die score is 6 or higher the character has not recovered from the spell and will have to spend another action to recover. Other spells cannot be cast until the character has recovered from the previous spell.
These are an example of the spells a Chaplain can cast: Inspire Faith, Aura of God, Guide Weapon, Healing Hand, Restore Calm, Pure Light, Cleansing Light, Battle Hymn, Bless Weapon, Ward off Evil, Restore Life, Almighty Hand and Prayer.
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Clerics can become powerful characters especially against the forces of evil.
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Any chance of a pdf release? Books are nice and all. But pdfs are just easier.
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casting spells and the word fantasy....
isn't this the wrong forum I keep asking myself ?
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https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/964530327/gadzooks-its-the-apocalypse/posts/2453206 (https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/964530327/gadzooks-its-the-apocalypse/posts/2453206)
The rules could probably go in several categories, but it is firmly set in this era. At the moment we are only focussed on the Kickstarter project and getting the rulebook published. If it doesn't succeed we will have to think again and pdf might be the way to go.
Campaign Background
Count Ernst von Mansfeld is raising an army of loyal protestants to retake the Palatinate and restore Frederick V to the Bohemian crown. The King of England is backing the project and the Duke of Buckingham is leading an expeditionary force to swell the numbers in Mansfeld’s army. Although the Duke has little military experience he is certainly the highest ranking officer in the army and is therefore in overall command.
The latest contingent of troops to head for the continent are gathering near Dover and are readying themselves for the Channel crossing. Within a few days, two regiments of infantry are ready to go, but their crossing is delayed. Unfortunately, diplomatic problems with France mean that the French authorities are unwilling to allow the English units to cross their territory and join with Mansfeld’s force.
Update 8. Morale.
Morale represents a soldier’s or follower’s bravery and commitment to the battle that they are involved in. When danger threatens – morale will be tested for. Morale tests only apply to soldiers, followers and other non-character figures. Characters and Evil Creatures will not be affected by morale.
Morale Test
Morale will be tested for when a friendly figure is killed within a distance of 4 inches. To take the test, 1d10 is rolled; a score of 8 or more means that the test has been passed. The score required for success will be reduced by one for each of the following situations:
• Each friendly figure within 4 inches of the testing figure
• Testing figure is in cover.
For example, a figure is testing for morale. It is in cover and has two other friendly figures within 4 inches, a score of five or more would be needed to pass the test.
Morale Result
If the score is 8 or more – the figure will have passed the morale test and is unaffected. If the score is lower, the test has failed and the testing figure will fall back the distance shown on the die. For example, a 4 is scored when testing for morale. The figure needed an 8 or more to pass the test, so the figure moves back 4 inches.
Panic: If a morale test results in a score of 1 the testing figure will Panic! The figure immediately turns round and runs away (two moves). Any other friendly figures in the group that are within 4 inches of the panicking figure and have not taken a morale test this turn will have to take a morale test. In the panicked figure’s next activation the player will have to make another morale test for the figure. If the test fails (scores less than 8) the figure will continue to Panic (two moves to the rear). If the figure passes the morale test it will be Suppressed and cannot be activated that turn. If the panicking figure reaches the player’s own rear table edge it will be removed from play and cannot take part in the rest of the battle.
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https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/964530327/gadzooks-its-the-apocalypse/posts/2456488 (https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/964530327/gadzooks-its-the-apocalypse/posts/2456488)
Update 9. Objectives, Harbingers and signs. This is a brief description, go to the KS update for more information.
The objective markers are in the rulebook and need to be copied, mounted and cut-up or you can pledge for the reward with the laser-cut mdf counters.
Scattered around each battlefield are a number of Objective Markers. These markers can represent valuable assets of one sort or another and will be highly sought after by the players; others, however, represent deadly dangers. The side that gains the most Objective Markers wins the game.
Placing Objectives: Players should make a random (blind) selection of Objective Markers and place them evenly about the gaming table, face down. The markers should be placed in a way that does not favour one side or the other in terms of distance from starting positions. Players should also position the markers in a variety of locations such as in the open, in buildings, in wooded areas, etc.
Revealing Objective Markers: Players will only discover the nature of a marker when a figure is moved into contact with it. At this point the marker is revealed.
Marker Types: There are different types of objectives but players will only discover what sort they are when a figure moves into contact with it. The five main types are Fixed Rewards, Heavy Rewards, Instant Rewards, Signs and Harbingers.
(http://www.stevenlampon.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/counters.jpg)
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I really hope this project doesn't go the PDF route. I like a book I can hold in my hands. Yes, I'm that old! If hard pressed, go with a publisher on demand option.
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Update 10. Signs and Harbingers.
Signs point the way to the impending Apocalypse. It might be the gathering of unusually dark clouds or other signs in the sky. It might be a sinister carrion bird giving an ‘evil look’. In a superstitious age, this can be a sign of foreboding and increased menace. When a Sign is revealed players can either ignore it, try and destroy it or ‘capture’ the Sign and thus enhance their evil reputation even further. To destroy the Sign the figure uses an action and the player rolls three dice (of any sort) and tries to score six or more on one of the dice. If this occurs the Sign is destroyed and the character gains an experience point. If the player wants to capture the Sign the player simply declares their intention, takes the Sign marker and places it off-table but somewhere where it can be easily seen (and added to the total of other in-play Signs). The character then gains a Black Mark against their name.
Bad Sign: If three sixes are scored when taking the test to destroy the Sign, the Sign will be destroyed but the character will gain one to six Black Marks.
Harbinger
Harbingers are more tangible evidence of impending doom; they are weird and unnatural precursors to the inevitable horror that awaits. Harbingers are things or events that will have a direct impact on the battle and those participating in it.
Harbingers have various effects on the game depending on which one is found. The severity of these effects will be determined by the number of Signs that have been revealed. The more Signs there are present, the more dangerous the Harbingers become.
More here ...
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/964530327/gadzooks-its-the-apocalypse/posts/2457230 (https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/964530327/gadzooks-its-the-apocalypse/posts/2457230)
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Update 11. More on Harbingers.
Thanks to everyone who has supported the project so far, we are 50% of the way there!
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/964530327/gadzooks-its-the-apocalypse/posts/2458109 (https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/964530327/gadzooks-its-the-apocalypse/posts/2458109)
Heavenly Choir: Faint but clear, the sound of angelic voices can be heard drifting down from the heavens, singing encouragement to the forces of good and sowing fear and doubt in the forces of evil. As soon as this marker is revealed all good troops (soldiers or followers serving characters without Black Marks) will gain a +1 bonus to their morale tests. All evil troops (serving heroes with Black Marks) will suffer a -1 penalty to their morale tests. Evil characters will also be affected. Before such a hero is activated, the controlling player rolls 1d6: a score of 1–4 and the character can use no skills that turn, a score of 5 and the character can use one skill that turn, a score of 6 and the character can use any skills. In the turn after the Choir is revealed (at the end of the turn) 1d10 is rolled to see whether the choir continues to sing. If the score is less than the number of Signs revealed so far the Choir will cease and the effects will no longer apply.
The Darkness Beckons: This Harbinger creates an area of darkness around the marker. One randomly selected figure from amongst the side that revealed the marker will at the end of the turn move a distance of 2–12 (2d6) towards the marker. This effect will apply throughout the game (or until the unfortunate figure is killed, at which point the Harbinger is removed) and will apply even if the figure is in close combat (the affected figure will break contact). If the figure moves into contact with the marker the figure will be lost and cannot be recovered after the battle (if a character).
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Update 12. Terrain Markers.
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/964530327/gadzooks-its-the-apocalypse/posts/2459276 (https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/964530327/gadzooks-its-the-apocalypse/posts/2459276)
Terrain Markers
Some of the randomly placed Objective Markers may be Terrain Markers, they will refer to the physical effects of the terrain or general battlefield conditions rather than being evil portents or signs of doom.
Here is a brief description of each one, go to the KS updates page for a fuller description.
Wind: A strong wind has blown up making the steady firing of weapons difficult. A score of 1 is deducted when testing to hit.
Rain: A heavy rain shower has soaked the combatants and caused problems for all firearms. The powder has become damp and all firing will suffer a -1 penalty to hit (per die rolled).
Smoke: Smoke billows across the battlefield reducing observation range to 20 inches minus 1d6 inches (per Smoke marker).
Rough Ground: The figure that discovers this marker has encountered some difficult ground and will have their next two moves reduced by half.
Dangerous Ground: The figure that discovers this marker has encountered dangerous ground that causes the figure to slip or fall.
Obstacle: When this marker is revealed the figure’s progress has been impeded by an obstacle (fallen tree, large rock, etc.).
Mortar Bomb: A stray mortar bomb crashes down near the marker (roll direction die from the marker).
Cannonade: When this Objective Marker is revealed one to three cannon balls will be hurled across the area.
Volley: When this Objective Marker is revealed a volley of musket shots (one to six shots) are blasted across the area.
Hidden: When this marker is revealed, whatever has been discovered remains hidden. The player must use an action to reveal what is actually there.
Fool’s Gold: It seems that a great treasure has been revealed. The figure will try and remove this marker from the table as if a Heavy Reward.
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Update 13. Choosing a Character and Character Skills.
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/964530327/gadzooks-its-the-apocalypse/posts/2460640 (https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/964530327/gadzooks-its-the-apocalypse/posts/2460640)
The following updates will look in detail at the different character classes and some of the specific character skills that define each character class.
Chaplains
Chaplains are individuals with strong religious convictions who have chosen to leave their churches and monasteries and go out into the world and tackle evil head-on. Chaplains are more concerned with helping mankind than with rivalry between different religious factions. The following skills are available to this character:
Inspire Faith: The Chaplain who has this skill will improve the morale of nearby friendly figures by allowing them a +1 bonus to their morale tests. This costs the Chaplain no actions to perform and no skill test is required. The area of effect is 2 inches from the Chaplain for every skill point the Chaplain has with this power.
Aura of Good: An aura of goodness seems to surround the Chaplain. Any damage inflicted by evil creatures (Harbingers, etc.) will allow the Chaplain a +1 to their armour save for each skill point. For example, an Imp has attacked a Chaplain with three skill points, +3 will be added to the Chaplain’s armour save. This requires no skill test for this power to work.
Other abilities include:
Guide Weapon: The Chaplain can bestow a bit of divine guidance on a friendly figure’s firearm when this skill is used.
Healing Hand: A Chaplain with this skill can restore lost wounds to injured characters.
Restore Calm: Chaplains can prevent friendly soldiers from panicking.
Pure Light: This skill allows the Chaplain to emit a brilliant holy light.
Cleansing Light: The Chaplain can call down a bolt of holy light from the heavens.
Battle Hymn: The Chaplain can lead the group in a rousing hymn before battle.
Bless Weapon: The Chaplain can confer divine favour on weapons.
Ward off Evil: When this skill is used the Chaplain can block the progress of an evil creature or character.
Restore Life: Any character that fails a Recovery Test and dies can be brought back to life.
Almighty Hand: This skill allows the Chaplain to smite evil opponents.
Prayer: If this skill is successfully used the Chaplain can improve poor die rolls of friendly figures for that turn.
Tomorrow's update will be the Assassin and some of his skills.
(https://ksr-ugc.imgix.net/assets/024/558/598/14503689b602e6279ebeb2b14a2f2c73_original.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&w=639&fit=max&v=1553690153&auto=format&gif-q=50&q=92&s=019c356b724a4d088252383cfe741e9d)
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Assassins are next up.
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/964530327/gadzooks-its-the-apocalypse/posts/2461735 (https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/964530327/gadzooks-its-the-apocalypse/posts/2461735)
(https://ksr-ugc.imgix.net/assets/024/570/478/a80ec98e4c5b05368454092e1db98f06_original.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&w=639&fit=max&v=1553766925&auto=format&gif-q=50&q=92&s=0567534ac2f56eada6c0d908522c0b9c)
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I was in for the book, but have upped to include the tokens.
The updates are great, really enjoyed the 'signs, portents' ( hence my upping the pledge) one but they all look excellent.
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:) Thanks Jim?, appreciate the support, I am pleased you like the updates, plenty more to come.
Steve
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And now the Necromancer ...
Update 15. The Necromancer.
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/964530327/gadzooks-its-the-apocalypse/posts/2462956
(https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/964530327/gadzooks-its-the-apocalypse/posts/2462956)
Necromancers are characters that put their faith in the power of the dead. These characters commune with the spirits of the dead in the quest for forbidden knowledge and can even cross the boundaries between the world of the living and the land of the dead. The following skills are available to this character:
Speak with the Dead: This skill allows the character to question an undead creature that is currently present on the battlefield. Range for this skill is 3 inches per skill point. Each question takes an action and a successful skill test. Neither the creature nor the character can be involved in close combat for this skill to work. Questions that will be answered truthfully are listed below. The object of the question must be within 12 inches of the undead creature being questioned (and it can answer questions about itself). Answers will only be revealed to the Necromancer player.
- How many wounds does that figure have remaining?
- What is the Combat Factor of that figure?
- How many attacks in close combat does that figure get?
- What is the Objective Marker that has not yet been revealed?
Animate Dead: The Necromancer has the power to reanimate the corpses of the recently dead with this skill. This spell only applies to non-character figures that have been killed during the current battle. The range for this skill is 6 inches per skill point (i.e. the distance between the Necromancer and the location where the subject figure was killed). The character must also be able to see the victim for this skill to work. It takes one action and a successful skill test for this to work. If the skill is successful, the dead figure is converted to a zombie and will function in the usual zombie way and have the same profile as any zombie. Note, the Necromancer will not have any control over this creature and is as likely to be attacked by it as any other target (although other skills can be used to exert control).
For other abilities go to the KS updates page:
(https://ksr-ugc.imgix.net/assets/024/584/192/9b8965dabc50aba2a2acfe427e4fdf0b_original.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&w=639&fit=max&v=1553856347&auto=format&gif-q=50&q=92&s=9300d22d6870375b7bc7b2d253fd018c)
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Update 16. Paladin.
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/964530327/gadzooks-its-the-apocalypse?ref=bqvgcl (https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/964530327/gadzooks-its-the-apocalypse?ref=bqvgcl)
Paladins are holy warriors whose mission in life is to selflessly destroy evil and protect the innocent. Such uncompromising ideals can result in a fairly short career for the Paladin. The following skills are available to this character:
Inspire Courage: Paladins inspire great courage by the example that they set. When the Paladin is in close combat, friendly figures within 1 inch (per skill point) will add +1 when testing to hit in close combat, add +1 to damage and +1 to their armour saves. This skill costs the Paladin no actions to perform and lasts for as long as the Paladin is in close combat and there are friendly figures nearby that benefit. If there are two such Paladins in the area, only one bonus can be applied.
Purge Evil: An aura of purity and goodness surrounds the Paladin – an aura that evil creatures find intolerable. Any evil creatures or characters will suffer +1 point of additional damage to any hit that they suffer when they are within the aura. This damage bonus will be +1 point per point of skill (up to a maximum of +4) that the Paladin has. The area of effect is the Paladin’s skill points in inches. The damage bonus will be applied to any attack that the target suffers (when they are in the aura area), even when it is inflicted by attacks not delivered by the Paladin. This costs no actions to use nor any skill test. If you have got it – you’ve got it.
(https://ksr-ugc.imgix.net/assets/024/595/635/7168908ed0da3928b181e4fe398eab28_original.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&w=639&fit=max&v=1553949934&auto=format&gif-q=50&q=92&s=93e59df822720c14b0a3b2fbaa842872)
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Update 17: Gadzooks, it's the Evil Creatures
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/964530327/gadzooks-its-the-apocalypse?ref=bqvgcl (https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/964530327/gadzooks-its-the-apocalypse?ref=bqvgcl)
It is getting close to the end of the KS campaign and we are still a long way from being funded :( Steve and I will have to think again. We have almost 50 people signed up and that is almost enough to do a short digital print run. If the people who have backed the project could send me a private message with their contact details that would be great. Thanks. Steve.
This part of the rules describes the evil creatures that will be used in this game. Certain evil characters will be able to include these creatures in their armies, or they may be found wandering the battlefield waiting to spring out on the unwary. An umpire player can also use these creatures as part of a scenario that they have created, in order to challenge the players and provide a suitably evil opposition.
Arachners
Since ancient times people have rightly feared the power of the spider, their poison, their cunning, their
ruthlessness and their webs of deceit. But during these dark apocalyptic times a new menace has arisen. Spiders of nightmare proportion now hunt for living flesh with the same relentless skill that the spider hunted the fly – now no one is safe. There is now talk that these giant spiders are the unholy offspring of the original spider, Arachne.
Sign: These creatures are able to create webs that will partially obscure and protect their own bodies and will hinder an attacker in close combat. These webs will start to be spun when Signs are in play. For every Sign in play the Arachner will gain a +1 bonus to their armour save and any attacker in close combat will suffer a -1 penalty to hit.
Special Attack: The poison has a paralysing effect – any ‘wounds’ inflicted that reduce the victim to zero wound capacity will not kill the victim, they will just paralyse them. Arachners that manage to paralyse their victims will then spend the next turn consuming the target. If the creature is not interrupted by a hit on it from range, or by an attack in close combat, the victim will be killed and cannot be recovered after the game. If the Arachner is killed before the victim is killed, the poison effects will slowly fade – the character will regain one lost poison wound per turn.
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Update 18: Walking Dead
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/964530327/gadzooks-its-the-apocalypse/posts/2468542 (https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/964530327/gadzooks-its-the-apocalypse/posts/2468542)
Known as the Walking Dead or the Risen or just zombies, these animated corpses of the recently and long dead now seek to destroy all those that live. Any living target that is killed by one of these creatures will themselves become a zombie (this includes characters who will not get their chance of a Recovery Test at the end of the battle). In the turn after a figure has been killed by a zombie (during
the evil creatures phase), the victim will rise up as a zombie and pursue the nearest living creature. These creatures appear in groups of one to six figures.
Sign: One is added to this creature’s armour save for every Sign that is still in play.
Special Attack: The Special Attack for these creatures is the Death Plague. If a 10 is scored to hit in close combat and the target suffers one or more wounds, the target is considered to have the Plague and will suffer another wound at the end of each turn. If the victim is reduced to zero wounds, the victim will become a zombie. If the scenario ends before the victim is reduced to zero wounds, the victim recovers from the plague.
The project has a week to run and we need 20-30 of the 113 followers to sign up or we are going to fall short.
(https://ksr-ugc.imgix.net/assets/024/642/024/c7da5f8de3448b73192b830bdb135667_original.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&w=700&fit=max&v=1554292019&auto=format&gif-q=50&q=92&s=0027f7884581f0174d1041f298d797ec)
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Update 19. Evil Creatures
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/964530327/gadzooks-its-the-apocalypse/posts/2474210 (https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/964530327/gadzooks-its-the-apocalypse/posts/2474210)
Devils and Demons
Devils and Demons are powerful evil entities that appear from time to time in the living world. Their visits are usually short and infrequent, which is a blessing, but when they do appear they bring with them considerable malice and power. These creatures can appear simply as random encounters or umpire players can use them as a feature of a scenario or campaign. This section shows how players can create the profile of these evil creatures.
Basic Profile
Devils and Demons have the same basic profiles. Where these entities differ is in the abilities that they possess. The player will roll 1d6 separately for each attribute, the scores will provide the creature’s profile.
Thank you to everyone who has supported the project so far, we have 36 hours to go and need about another 20 people to pledge.
(https://ksr-ugc.imgix.net/assets/024/699/716/3e374d2faf40268cea608bea5c792013_original.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&w=639&fit=max&v=1554744703&auto=format&gif-q=50&q=92&s=42962522715e411a6e3cd04cbc3af6f3)
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Gadzooks, it's the Apocalypse! Unfortunately we didn't reach the KS pledge target, thanks to everyone who did pledge. Steve and I will investigate other routes to get the rules into print. If you are still interested, please leave a comment on my website, if we can get numbers close to 70then a short print run is possible. Thanks. Steve.
http://www.stevenlampon.co.uk/gadzooks-its-the-apocalypse/ (http://www.stevenlampon.co.uk/gadzooks-its-the-apocalypse/)
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crap
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mkultra99, if you don't mind supplying me with your contact details either via personal message or leaving a comment on my website then my hope is we can still fund this project.
http://www.stevenlampon.co.uk/gadzooks-its-the-apocalypse/ (http://www.stevenlampon.co.uk/gadzooks-its-the-apocalypse/)
Many thanks
Steve
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Looks interesting! Sorry I missed the Kickstarter in time. I have left a message on your website.
-Michael
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I got your email today. This is great news. I'm looking forward to my copy.
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(http://www.stevenlampon.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/webPics_03.jpg)
:) Thank you to everyone who contacted me with their continuing support for the rules.
We have about 60 people who have pledged their support, so the rules will go to press at the end of the week.
We will print 100 copies, so if you haven't previously contacted me but would still like a copy I need to know ASAP. I need to know your location please.
stevelampon@yahoo.co.uk
The offer remains the same as the Kickstarter offer.
Rulebook & QRS £20.00
Rulebook QRS and a set of counters £35.00
Postage rates
Rules only, UK large letter - £3.00
Rules + tokens, UK small parcel - £4.00
Rules only, Europe - £6.00
Rules + tokens, Europe small parcel - £9.00
Rules only, World Zone 1, (everywhere that isn’t Europe or Australia/New Zealand) - £10.00
Rules + tokens, World Zone 1, (everywhere that isn’t Europe or Australia/New Zealand) small parcel - £14.00
Rules only, World Zone 2, (Australia/New Zealand) - £10.00
Rules + tokens, World Zone 2, (Australia/New Zealand) small parcel - £15.00
Many thanks
Steve
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Books and QRS are back from the printers and will go in the mail tomorrow. Steve expects the MDF counters Thursday or Friday and if so, in the mail by Monday. As far as I know, there are still books left. If your sitting on the fence waiting, make your move now!
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Thanks Cyrus :), beat me to it!
Gadzooks, it's the Apocalypse rulesets have been delivered and the first lot of pledges have gone in the post. Rules/QRS and counters will go in the post early next week - I am waiting for the counters to be delivered. Many thanks to all of those who have supported the book :)
Steve
(http://www.stevenlampon.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/webPics_03-1000x566.jpg)
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And for a bit of inspiration... The War Hound and the World's Pain is a 1981 fantasy novel by English writer Michael Moorcock, the first of the "von Bek" series of novels.
The book is set in Europe ravaged by the Thirty Years' War. Its hero Ulrich von Bek is a mercenary and freethinker, who finds himself a damned soul in a castle owned by Lucifer. Much to his surprise, von Bek is charged by Lucifer with doing God's work, by finding the Holy Grail, the "cure for the world's pain," that will also cure Lucifer's pain by reconciling him with God. Only through doing this can von Bek save his soul. After many adventures, von Bek eventually finds the Holy Grail, and discovers that it will set mankind on the path to self-redemption through rationality, without the help of God or the hindrance of Lucifer.
The story is continued in The City in the Autumn Stars (1986).
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I've never read any of the von Bek series. I'm going to have to rectify that.
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I placed my payment this morning. I'm looking forward to reading through this. I already have a few figures awaiting conversion. Now for a little more inspiration ;D
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Just got my copy the other day, just dipped into it. Will give it another proper read, and see what I can get together a few minis.
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Gadzooks, it's the Apocalypse. The rules, QRS's and counters have all gone in the post today. Thank you to everybody who has supported the project.
Steve has a blog and will be happy to answer any questions you have regarding the rules.
http://www.dicetheapocalypse.co.uk (http://www.dicetheapocalypse.co.uk)
I really would appreciate it if you would all spread the word about the rules, particularly on relevant social media groups - I still have 40 copies to sell! :)
Many thanks
Steve
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Great news!
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sigh...
temptations.
have to wait a few days for payday!
If you have a copy left by then..
sorry I missed the KS as well - bu trying to avoid that site...
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Payment made on Thursday, order received early Friday morning. :D I suspect sorcery may have been involved.
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:) Tactalvanic, I have plenty of copies left. I doubt I will sell-out in the next few days.
If you would like a copy, leave a message on my blog or PM me here.
http://www.stevenlampon.co.uk/gadzooks-its-the-apocalypse/
Steve
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Just arrived in Surrey!
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Sounds like Surrey is a bit of a hotspot for weird ECW/TYW - my copy arrived today too!
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My copy arrived today in the Midwest. :)
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:) Many thanks guys, please spread the word - far and wide!
Enjoy the rules.
Steve
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I have 24 figures waiting to worked on. Hopefully I will have some time to start on a couple of them next week. The only thing I'm certain of so far is that the Warlord plastic drummer will be an Apprentice Wizard. Leave off the drum, add (not 100% certain yet) to his hands, and the pouch for his drumsticks will be a caddy for his masters spare wands :)
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I have me grubby mits on a copy now!
There's efficiency, anyone would think they are flying off the shelf they arrive so fast!
Ta!
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Yesterday my copy arrived to Poland. Will read on weekend. I'm thinking about Polish warband for game and thinking about to introduce to the game polish devils, very different from their western cousins.
Is there FaceBook group to discuss the game?
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My copy has come. I have not had a chance to delve into it yet, but I can attest it is a very pretty rulebook.
-Michael
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Hi Boguslaw, there isn't a dedicated Facebook group for the rules but if there is sufficient interest I could start one.
Steve Danes does have his own blog where he will be more than happy to answer any questions you may have.
http://www.dicetheapocalypse.co.uk (http://www.dicetheapocalypse.co.uk)
Enjoy the rules - spread the word :)
Steve