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  [ZGG Repost] Sourcebook on Thonia
Posted by: Havard - 01-05-2010, 02:43 PM - Forum: Archived Discussions (Members Only) - No Replies

http://mmrpg.zeitgeistgames.com/index.p ... opic&t=197

Rafe:

Hello,

I want Zeitgeist game to write a sourcebook on Thonia for me and my gaming group.


Shocked Wink

Really, are there any chances that this could be done, and if yes, then in the forseeable future?

******************************

Me too! Very Happy

HÃ¥vard

PS: This place has been quiet lately, hasn't it? Lorenzo, Sheridan, the rest of you guys, where are you? Crying or Very sad

*********************************

Rafael:
Yeah... The Blackmoor Mailing List is far more crowded than the boards over here. Crying or Very sad

***************************

Havard:
If you are just looking for the general geographical outline of Thonia, check out the latest maps on my website done by Lo Zompatore. Specifically this one:
http://www.geocities.com/havardfaa/Mystara_BC3200.jpg

It might give you some ideas. And yes, I am looking forward to more of your theories on the JG/BM connection. I am working on some maps myself that reconsiliate Mr. Zompatore's maps and The Wilderlands...

HÃ¥vard
***********************

Rafe:
hank you! As you might already suspect, I know this material already,.although indeed, it was a brig help when I tried to get a general approach. (Al ye lurkers, check this out! Smile )

Yet, the one thing I would be happy to see from future products would be a general overview of Thonia at the time of the current BM books. Blackmoor depends so highly on that background, and there is nearly nothing known about it.

BTW, in David Ross' BM Gaz, he writes that Thonia was the name of a setting that was used back in the time of the Castles & Crusades Society. Do you happen to know what he could refer to?

Yours,

***********************

Havard:
Yeah, it would be interesting. I see Thonia as a cross between the Roman Empire and those decandent civilized cultures from Conan.

Quote:
BTW, in David Ross' BM Gaz, he writes that Thonia was the name of a setting that was used back in the time of the Castles & Crusades Society. Do you happen to know what he could refer to?


I only know that the Castles & Crusades Society were sort of an early live RPG group, reenaciting medieval battles etc. I doubt that they had given the exact setting much thought, but rather "Thonia" would have been just a name they gave their "world", without developing it much further.

These are just speculations though. If they did have a more developed setting, this could provide us with some ideas for how to flesh out the empire further.

Another theory is that Thonia is just another name for the Kingdom of Karnak from the Wilderlands Setting. I dont know if that kingdom was ever detailed ever though, maybe you know more about that? I will be picking up my copy of the Wilderlands PHB on friday BTW Smile
**************************

Havard:
That's interesting - my Thonia is nearly 100% like late imperial Rome as well.

As to what you say about the C&C society, very interesting. I'll ask one of the wises over at DF for a definite answer... This really intriguing...

havard wrote:

Another theory is that Thonia is just another name for the Kingdom of Karnak from the Wilderlands Setting. I dont know if that kingdom was ever detailed ever though, maybe you know more about that? I will be picking up my copy of the Wilderlands PHB on friday BTW Smile


And? What do you think of it?

I personally don't make BM and WL direct neighbours, but have the Kingdom of Karak border to a great desert, which borders to Thonia's south.
************************

Havard:
I was actually very happy with the Players Guide to the Wilderlands. I had no idea the setting would be so intriguing. All this talk of Old Skool and First Edition Feel actually made me think the setting was actually turning me off the setting a bit, but this all disappeared when I read through the book.

I like how the Wilderlands has a clear Sword&Sorcery feel, making it distinguish itself from most other settings. It should fit well with Blackmoor which also has some of these elements, yet is IMO distinctly different from the WL too. The technology aspect and certain Arthurian elements are the main things that I'd say make BM different from the WL.

I also have some room between the WL and Blackmoor. We can extend the Valley of the Ancients quite a bit so that is not much of a problem really. Also, the Kingdom of Karak's exact location is so vague we can move it around a bit. IMC I'm thinking perhaps it should border on Thonia though...

HÃ¥vard
**********************

Rafe:

I still have that timeline in the making that shall reconcile both settings - I'll post it over here as soon as I can put it into a printable form. Smile

************************

Rafe:

Hehehe... I'll work on finishing that article as soon as two things are fulfilled:

1. I still have to finish my submission to the Footprints Mag at DF.

2. I still have to get a real idea of what is happening in BM's present day: Campaign year is 1032, if I am not mistaken. But what exactly has happened so far? Which MMRPG mod is canon, and which one not? Smile Gaah! Wink

*******************

Havard:
Are you using Zimriel's timeline for reference at all?

************************

Rafe:
Yes. I have already completed the timeline, but want to put the things in a better form - like in a scale for Bardic Knowledge checks. Smile For my timeline I used Zimriel's notes, as well as what I found on your site, in combination with *official* BM d20 notes and a couple of othermaterials and modules, mainly what is found in the WL Box. - And some stuff from my own campaigns as well.

Did you already get lost in the wonderful world of the Wilderlands? Smile When my box arrived, the next two days were only RPG for me... Very Happy

*************************

Havard:
Why dont you let us see your current version and then you can reorganize it after you get our feedback? Wink

I like the Bardic Knowledge organized format used in the Wilderlands box. Very neat!

Quote:
Did you already get lost in the wonderful world of the Wilderlands? Smile When my box arrived, the next two days were only RPG for me... Very Happy


Yeah, I was for a while! I love the setting, though the boxed set was a bit heavy on detail even for my tastes. Still, it was a great read. I love the ancient world feel the setting has.

Since my Blackmoor has taken a more steampunk heavy turn, I am wondering how ideally the settings would work together though. Travelling into the Wilderlands from Blackmoor would definately take the campaign to a different turn. Still, that could be interesting too...
**********************

Falconer:
Since the "Great Kingdom" of the Blackmoor setting has a common origin with the "Great Kingdom" of the Greyhawk setting, why not look at some of the material for the latter to flesh out the former? There's Rob Kuntz's Maze of Zayene series (Prisoners of the Maze, Dimensions of Flight, Tower Chaos, and The Eight Kings) and The Fate of Istus as well as Carl Sargent's monumental Ivid the Undying. That's what I use! Regards.

****************************

Gsvenson:
In fact, in the early days sometimes our characters traveled across the Great Kingdom from Blackmoor to Greyhawk and back when we went down to visit Gary in Lake Geneva in real life. I can vaguely remember doing that. Seems to me we flew down on tarn back (the "Tarnsman of Gore" series was popular at the time).
Greg

************************

Havard:

Good idea! My only reason for not going down that path earlier is the amount of information I would have to go through to familiarize myself with Greyhawk. Your list make things alot easier though. How would you sum up Greyhawk's Great Kingdom in a few words?

Note that I don't use the Wilderlands as Thonia IMC. Rather, the Wilderlands lay west of Thonia.

Greg:
-That sounds sweet! So Svenny has wrecked havoc in the lands of Greyhawk as well? Smile
- Re: Tarnsman of Gor: yikes! *hides under the table* Shocked

***********************

Rafe:

havard Wrote:Why dont you let us see your current version and then you can reorganize it after you get our feedback? Wink

Since I do most of my stuff in handwriting, I can only present you the very very very first rough sketch I did, with many open gaps etc. The bardic knowledge is not applied still, but I am sure that I'll be able to do the latest updates ther some time soon.

havard Wrote:Since my Blackmoor has taken a more steampunk heavy turn, I am wondering how ideally the settings would work together though. Travelling into the Wilderlands from Blackmoor would definately take the campaign to a different turn. Still, that could be interesting too...

I mix the panteons, and have many NPCs travelling between the settings... A lot of stuff, really... So, for example, in my next campaign set in Damkina, I'll have a certain "Mr. Zvenzen" star as a special ambassador from the northern lands...

gsvenson Wrote:(the "Tarnsman of Gore" series was popular at the time).

[Image: 0809500795.01._AA240_SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg] :?: :wink:

I am currently working out something for Thonia for my gaming group - some parts of the Greyhawkian Great Kingdom exist there, like the Twin Cities or the Adri Forest, as well as Kalstrand.

Let's see how my reconicilliation article works - maybe I'll include it there...

Smile
********************

Rafe:
Smile Well, you aksed for it, Havard - here's a first version of the timeline I wrote around Christmas. The timeline itself has been reworked in the meantime, and a section concernign gods and NPCs has been added... Let's hope I get it done soon...


[BCCC=JG Calendar] [NG=Northern Calendar; used instead of the usual BC counting system, or TC= Thonian Calendar]

Published modules included in this timeline:
DA2
DA3
DA4
Penumbra: Maiden Voyage
Ties That Bind
Blackmoor d20 Campaign Setting
Wizard’s Cabal
Blood Enemies: Abominations of Cerilia
PG Wilderlands
Wilderlands of High Fantasy Boxed Set
Caverns of Thracia
Ghostwalk
Losing Focus

Fan material included in this timeline:
Ross, David: Zimriel’s Blackmoor Gazetteer, n. d.
The Grim Winter PbP

Proto History

For this very earliest period of history, I simply use the material presented in Necromancer Games’ Wilderlands Box; for this era is of minimal, if of any importance for my games. Still, the approach presented by NG for JG#s Wilderlands sounds intriguing and detailed enough that I may use it without problem if needed.

Pre-History

-43300 BCCC End of the Uttermost War [-46703 NC]

-20500 BCCC End of the Demon Wars. [-23903 NC]

Earliest History

-8567 BCCC Founding of the city state of Kelnore. [-11970 NC]

-5033 BCC Era of the Reptillions in the Northen Marches. Founding of the city, on whose ruins
Thracia will later be build. [-8436 NC]

-4957 BCCC End of Kelnore’s Golden Era. [-8360 NC]

-3721 BCCC End of the Kelnoran Empire. [-7124 NC]

-575 BCCC Destruction of the Dragon Empire. [-3979 NC]

101 BCCC Followers of Armadad Bog found the city of Viridistan. [-3302 NC]

1101 BCCC First human settlers from the south, mainly the Ebony Coast, cross the Valley of the Ancients
and settle in the ruins of the old Reptillion cities in the swamps. [2302 BCCC]

1433 BCCC City of Thracia becomes the cultural centre of humanity north of the Valley of the Ancients.
[-1970 NC}

3075 BCCC Normoot founded on the Ruins of Ryan.
Later known as “The City State of the Invincible Overlordâ€


  [ZGG Repost] Any plans for a DM's Screen?
Posted by: Havard - 01-05-2010, 01:38 PM - Forum: Archived Discussions (Members Only) - No Replies

http://mmrpg.zeitgeistgames.com/index.p ... opic&t=881

Havard:
Hi,
I was wondering if there were any plans for a Blackmoor DM's screen? That would have been cool. I prefer it if the screen is accompanied by a booklet or something though, like an adventure or something. Perhaps it could be released along with a poster map?

What kind of screens to other people prefer? I think I like the landscape type screens the most.

Havard

*****************************

Mynex:
We've discussed it... we want to... but it comes down to a cost analysis thing right now...

We're looking at how things proceed (i.e. sales) before committing to one or not.

**************************

Havard:
Its awesome that you are at least considering it! Some companies publish screens along with an adventure or a GM's companion type booklet. This would be a great Blackmoor product IMO.

A screen with the Elmore picture from the 3E sourcebook would have looked awesome...

****************

-Havard


  [ZGG Repost] Third Faith of Elgath?
Posted by: Havard - 01-05-2010, 01:36 PM - Forum: Archived Discussions (Members Only) - No Replies

http://mmrpg.zeitgeistgames.com/index.p ... opic&t=584

Raskal:
In the Player's Guide to BlackMoor, the faith dedicated to Elgath is split in two : druidic & hunters (to be synthetic). There is also a cleric sect and some paladins.

But there is no mention of the ideas that Elgath is the lord of magical beasts and monters and perhaps that the Egg is an avatar of Elgath (see DA Blackmoor book). One of the 2 faiths, the cleric sect, or an other group follow this idea ?
*******************

Havard:


To be honest I never liked the idea of Elgath being associated with the Egg of Coot. It just doesnt fit with his other aspects.

If the Egg is in fact a manifestation of Elgath, I assume the followers of that cult would exist within the Realm of the Egg?

*******************

-Havard


  [ZGG Repost] First Review Posted (4E)
Posted by: Havard - 01-05-2010, 01:34 PM - Forum: Archived Discussions (Members Only) - No Replies

http://mmrpg.zeitgeistgames.com/index.p ... opic&t=880

RPGNet has posted their review of Blackmoor: The First Campaign.

http://www.rpg.net/reviews/archive/14/14415.phtml

(If you respond, keep in mind everyone has different tastes on things like art and maps, so be nice!)

_________________
W. Robert Reed III
Mynex
- #1 Evil Monkey
- Code Monkey Publishing Co-Founder
- Summum Malorum Simius


**********************************************

Havard:
Thanks for sharing! I dont agree with all of the negative criticism, and I will try to write a (friendly) commentary on it soon Smile

Havard


****************

-Havard


  [ZGG Repost] Blackmoor 4E
Posted by: Havard - 01-05-2010, 01:32 PM - Forum: Archived Discussions (Members Only) - No Replies

http://mmrpg.zeitgeistgames.com/index.p ... opic&t=877

Havard:

Rumour has it the First Campaign book is already out. Has anyone heard anything about this?

http://www.thepiazza.org.uk/bb/viewtopi ... =24&t=2329

------

Apparently Blackmoor 4E is available in stores now! Shocked

http://www.enworld.org/forum/general-rp ... neson.html

Havard



******************

Gsvenson:
I saw this on the DABM mailing list:

Blackmoor: The First Campaign is now available!
Posted by: "Jae Walker" jaegamer@gmail.com jaegamer
Fri Jul 3, 2009 11:18 am (PDT)

The D&D 4th edition book "Blackmoor: The First Campaign" is now
available for purchase. RPG Shop has it, and I'm hoping you can also
get it from your Friendly Local Game Store. If you buy the paper
product, you can get the PDF free. (at least, that's what I was
told...)

http://www.rpgshop. com/default/ dave-arneson- s-blackmoor- 4e-gsl.html

Jae Walker
DAB Blackmoor 4.0 Cat Herder

--
While we breathe, there's hope.
We don't hide from history - we make it.

***************


darjr:
I just ordered this through my FLGS. They are going to order at least one extra and I'm going to startup up the MMRPG there.

***********************

Havard:
Thanks for sharing Greg!

I have been collecting some info about this book which I have posted here:
http://www.thepiazza.org.uk/bb/viewtopi ... =24&t=2329

Certainly looks interesting.

BTW Greg, which mailinglist is this? I thought I was signed up to all the Blackmoor relevant mailinglists...

Havard

*******************

Macbolan:
Havard...

Jae sent that email to a couple of different DAB Mailing Lists.

But the one you want to sign up for is DABlackmoor Exodus, the Yahoo group for the Blackmoor 4.0 MMRPG.

http://groups.google.com/group/dablackmoor-exodus?hl=en

That is great news about the Blackmoor 4.0 published books finally being released.

Here's hoping that Rob and Co. can get the Living Campaign bibles out soon so we can get cracking on character creation in time for GenCon.

Thanks,
Russ

*********************
Havard:

hanks Russ! Smile

I have signed up now and am in the process of reading through the archives Smile


Quote:Quote:
That is great news about the Blackmoor 4.0 published books finally being released.


Oh definately! I know there are alot of people out there interested in Blackmoor who still havent heard about Blackmoor 4E, so lets keep spreading the word Smile

Havard
******************


darjr:
Just signed up for the yahoo group. Thanks!
**************

Rafael:
So, got it as a PDF from CMP today.

Well, well...

This is, with a few additions, "just" the 3e book under 4e rules.

Nonetheless a very good buy, for me at least, because it will keep BM compatible with
the new sourcebooks and thus ensure that 4e players at least have the chance to play in one of the classic settings.

For me especially, it's absolutely interesting because I am in a few gaming groups that frequently try other systems. 4e will be certainly on the plan at some point, and so I am happy to have bought it.

*************************

Havard:
I bought the pdf yesterday. I disagree with you however. While most of the non-crunch material may have been released under the 3e rules, but it is far from a hard copy of the 3E sourcebook, which I feared it might be.

Alot of info from the various 3E books has been incorporated and the whole thing has been reorganized in a way that makes it useful to me, even though I dont think I will be playing 4E any time soon. I also like the way they have incorporated the new 4E races, Tieflings in particular.

Havard
*************************

Rafael:
Sure, should have put that better.

I meant this in contrast to the rumors about 4e BM being either a revamp of the
real First Fantasy campaign (means, describing the setting at 1000 NC, as opposed to 3e BM's), or describing a future version of BM, a book that is still in the editing loop, if I understand things right.

Pretty good book. Go and get it! Very Happy


*******************

Lord Lamorek Steelguard:
I guess I'm kind of ambivalent about Blackmoor 4E. I own the 4E PHB, but other than looking through a handful of times, it simply doesn't interest me. I might buy the new campaign setting, but that will probably be it. The new system is almost completely incapable of being backwards compatible with the systems I prefer like Castles & Crusades or AD&D 1E, so about the only things I will take from the new book will be the non-crunch setting info.
*****************************

darjr:
Has this sold out? Over on enworld someone stated that he couldn't find it any more... and with a cursory check I agree.
*******************

Mynex:
Well... yes, it did sell out from the distributors to the FLGS.... The distributors have re-ordered it and it should be back on shelves in the next week or 2...

Apparently, unlike the 3e OGL glut, store & distributors are under ordering stock across all 4e lines... Can't say I blame them, but it is annoying.

As to revamp of blackmoor... That's not ever really going to happen... I suppose it depends on your point of view, but the new book that the MMRPG will be set in (Age of the Wolf) advances the blackmoor timeline to 1299!

So party like it's 1299!!!

I'll be posting more news and whatnot over the next week... there's still a lot of prep going on for the kickoff of the campaign... so my time is pretty well sucked up between now and GenCon. Confused

Glad people are liking the 4e book! Smile

_________________
W. Robert Reed III
Mynex
- #1 Evil Monkey
- Code Monkey Publishing Co-Founder
- Summum Malorum Simius

*************************

darjr:
I figured as much. However confirmation is good. Thanks

I had them reorder it.

Is the 4e book and the living campaign in the same time frame? 1299?

Edit: to add that I read in the other thread that the MM is advanced from the general setting and using the material in the new 4e 'black album' book.

Thanks!

**************************

Havard:
Thanks for sharing this Robert! As I have mentioned elsewhere, I am really excited about this! Smile

darjr wrote:

Is the 4e book and the living campaign in the same time frame? 1299?


That is my understanding from what Robert has posted elsewhere at least Smile

I have collected some speculations on Age of the Wolf over here:
http://www.thepiazza.org.uk/bb/viewtopi ... 388#p28388


Havard
***************************

Mynex:
Well, I checked out the piazza postings.. I don't need another forum account I'll rarely check. :p

So... What material will be required for Age of the Wolf? The Blackmoor First Campaign (Black Album) since all the core mechanics of 4e are in that book (reprinting them would be silly and a waste of everyone's time).

Future products will rely on these 2 core books - Mechanics from Black Album, Flavor (and more mechanics) from AotW.

Same thing applies to canon material and MMRPG material... Albeit the MMRPG will divert slightly in places from canon... that simply can't be helped due to the nature of a living style campaign.

_________________
W. Robert Reed III
Mynex
- #1 Evil Monkey
- Code Monkey Publishing Co-Founder
- Summum Malorum Simius

***************************

Havard:

Thanks for paying the site a visit! I have been with it from the start, so I feel a sense of ownership about it (plus I am one of the mods there too). I was pretty happy when Blackmoor got a forum of its own there, particularly since Blackmoor fans seem to be scattered all over the web.

*******************

-Havard


  [ZGG Repost] Dave Arneson's Condition:
Posted by: Havard - 01-05-2010, 01:18 PM - Forum: Archived Discussions (Members Only) - No Replies

http://mmrpg.zeitgeistgames.com/index.p ... opic&t=872


GSvenson:
PostPosted: Apr 07, 2009 - 06:58 PM

Dave's son-in-law asked me to post the following message.

As of this writing, Dave is still with us. We have moved him into a facility where we can focus on keeping him comfortable. We have been and will continue to watch the forums and blogs and are passing along everyone's thoughts and prayers. Right now our focus is on getting Dave into the best possible position to maintain his comfort and his dignity. We will update the community as we can. We want to thank everyone for your thoughts and prayers and ask that you continue to send Dave your support in whatever form that means to you.

An address has been established to receive messages to Dave.

Dave Arneson
1043 Grand Avenue
Box #257
St. Paul, MN
55105

************************

Rafael:
Sending something today.

---
Sent my "Tales from the Old Lands" and prints from our game here.
The big gift of D&D is that is created friendship all over the world.
Something that, in our case, would never have been possible without Dave's efforts.

********************

Sheridan:
According to several sources (OD&D Discussion, ENWorld), Dave passed away last night. I only got to meet him this past year, at GenCon, and found him quite funny and jovial. I still have a "lucky d20" he gave me.

Dave's Blackmoor served as the foundation for all the D&D games I have run since starting with the hobby back in 1983.

A couple years before Zeitgeist Games published the 3.5 version of Blackmoor, I found Dave online and we had several lengthy email exchanges on gaming which I still treasure.

Greg, and all those who knew him much better than I did, I am profoundly sorry for the loss of your friend. Please accept my heartfelt condolences.

Someone should put an announcement on the front page of this site. Those who had an affection for Blackmoor will likely be looking here.

Thank you, Dave, for all the friends and the enjoyment your gift has given us.

-Scott Moore
**********************

Gsvenson:
Shortly after 11pm on Tuesday, April 7th, Dave Arneson passed away. He was comfortable and with family at the time and his passing was peaceful.

The Arneson family would like to thank everyone for their support over the last few days, and for the support the entire community has shown Dave over the years.

We are in the process of making final arrangements and will provide additional details as we work them out. We will continue to receive cards and letters in Dave's honor. We are planning to hold a public visitation so that anyone wishing to say their goodbye in person has the opportunity to do so.

Cards and letters can continue to be sent:
Dave Arneson
1043 Grand Avenue
Box #257
St. Paul, MN
55105

Visitation will be on April 20th
Time: yet to be determined
Address:
Bradshaw Funeral Home
687 Snelling Avenue South
St. Paul, MN 55105
****************************

Gsvenson:
Thanks, Scott. I will truly miss Dave. He was more like a big brother to to me than just a friend...

******************************

Ladrick:
I'd like to add my condolences as well.
I was lucky enough to meet Dave at Gencon a few years back, and found him to be a very gracious fellow.

Uthor, once and Always!

Landrick
******************

Tarlyn:
I offer my condolences as well.

Little background here. I didn't even know who Dave was until I met Des aka Rafael. Saddened by his passing.
I guess now, Dave and Gary will go forward, up there, together Big Grin

*********************

Lord Lamorek Steelguard:
Godspeed Dave. Say hi to Gary for all of us and save us a spot at the gaming table. You will be sorely missed and were loved by millions even if few of them knew your name.

My deepest condolences to the Arneson's for their loss and to Greg and the others of the original Blackmoor campaign.

Uther, Once and Always!
****************************

Tadkil:
Damn.

_________________
Tad L. J. Kilgore
Executive Producer
************************

tadkil:
http://www.giantitp.com/comics/oots0644.html

A suitable tribute.
*******************

djaykix:

Dave, you will be missed. I also send my condolences to the Arneson's and Greg and others that are close friends of Dave.

***********

Rafael:
Failed to get the books to the Post Office in time.
Will write something over the weekend, though.

What a sad turn of events. I am very sorry for Dave and his family,
and obviously for you as well, Greg.

****************************

-Havard


  [ZGG Repost] Map of Blackmoor Town
Posted by: Havard - 01-05-2010, 11:59 AM - Forum: Archived Discussions (Members Only) - No Replies

Hey, I just posted a map of Blackmoor town here:
http://www.thepiazza.org.uk/bb/viewtopi ... =24&t=1331

Havard


  [ZGG Repost] Harv and I Immortalized!
Posted by: Havard - 01-05-2010, 11:58 AM - Forum: Archived Discussions (Members Only) - Replies (2)

http://mmrpg.zeitgeistgames.com/index.p ... opic&t=839

Rafe:
Very Happy Very Happy Very Happy Very Happy Very Happy

Quote:Quote:
Temple of the Frog, Pg. 46:
A Dravah the Merciless Index finger/+1 divine bonus to all attacks.

B Odah’cid’se the Mad Eye/+2 divine bonus to Wisdom.


The MAD? Somebody is going to pay for this!!!

Very Happy Thank you so much!!!

Yours,

Rafe

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Havard:

Hahaha! This is fantastic! I kept looking for this, but it was too well hidden for me. Well spotted Rafe!

Yeah, and thanks guys. This is such an honor Smile

Havard

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-Havard


  [ZGG Repost] Where should Blackmoor go next?
Posted by: Havard - 01-05-2010, 11:56 AM - Forum: Archived Discussions (Members Only) - No Replies

http://mmrpg.zeitgeistgames.com/index.p ... opic&t=737

Havard:
Currently the ZGG books have mainly been revisitations of older material like the FCC and the DA series. Once these sources have been exhausted, in what directions would it be interesting to see ZGG take Blackmoor?

PS: Its been so quiet around here lately. Lets do something about it! Smile
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The Wondering Bard:
The FUTURE?!?!?!

~Sings "Jew's in Space!" Theme music from History of the World Part2, but with more "Thonian's in SPACE!"~
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Sheridan:
Glendower!
The City of Blackmoor (DA5)!
South off the main map!
Skandaharian and Egg-controlled lands to the north!
Levels of Blackmoor Dungeon below the 20th (Epic levels!) including the long-rumored pass to Glendower!
Updated Garbage Pits of Despair (why not)!

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HW_Brother:
I would like to see some "atmosphere" products focused on the towns or regions. Also, some metaorg related adventures. I run a home game and struggle to keep the distinctive flavor and history of Blackmoor. That which makes it different from the thousands of other settings available. So I'm looking for the history, stories, and other things which would keep Maus from devolving into Lankhmar. The recent death of Gary Gygax only highlights the need to capture and cary on the unique legacy of Blackmoor.
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Finarvyn:
I would like to see more insights into the original campaign, much like the FFC book. Since Blackmoor originated as a miniatures campaign, it would be interesting to see some sort of campaign guide with rules for building roads, castles, trade goods shipping "off the map", and troop breakdown for the major powers in the area.

Maybe some alternate systems (or explanations) for magic use or other types of rules most similar to the original setting.

Just flip through the pages of FFC and you can see the kinds of nuggets I'd like to see mined.

Also, in the spirit of the "The Egg and the Space Ship" thread, it could be fun to see an entire module devoted to the space ship. It could become a high-tech mega dungeon much like MA's Warden with lots of levels and hidden goodies.

In fact, if it crashed on top of a pre-existing dungeon complex one could adventure through the ship and enter lower dungeon levels below the ship's hull. Could be loads of fun.


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Sheridan:

The City Of The Gods adventure for Blackmoor has just been released, so you can get your fill of spaceship goodness there!
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gsvenson:
I have a great deal of material on the Barony of Newgate that I am planning to post on my web site very soon, that should provide some of the local flavour of Blackmoor for you. Andreas Claren is redoing my hand drawn maps right now and I have several people reviewing the textual content that I have put together. Once I hear back from them I will start converting the documents to web pages and put them up on my site...
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Havard:
Cant wait to see this Greg! Smile

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Gsvenson:
I might be interesting to have a set of interconnected "region" maps. In other words, we have a large-scale map of the Blackmoor area but it would be near to have several maps that link together to give a larger area with smaller hex size.

You might recall when Paizio did something like this for the Greyhawk world, which was released as four fold-out inserts in Dungeon magazine. Maybe it could be sold laminated so that it wouldn't tear. Something like that would be cool.
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Havard:
I agree. Expanding the Blackmoor area, perhaps south to the Thonian Empire or north to the Skandaharian realms would be interesting.

The Greyhawk map(s) from Dungeon were beautiful. I would love to have something like this for Blackmoor. Actually I am working with some way to integrate hexes with my maps...

Havard
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Sheridan:
Glendower!
Levels of Blackmoor Dungeon below the 20th (Epic levels!) including the long-rumored pass to Glendower!


If/when 4e Blackmoor materials come out, there's even MORE reason to do this now, since character levels go up to 30 now and you have the Epic Destiny paths. Perhaps converting Dave's original Glendower to 4e and adding levels 21-30 to the Blackmoor dungeon (maybe with some new material from Dave) and showing the long-rumored passage on level 30 that leads to Glendower. It could be released as Castle Blackmoor II: The Passage to Glendower.
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Havard:
That would be cool. Maybe throw in the Temple of Id as well? Smile

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Lord Lamorek Steelguard:
I would like to have a Blackmoor Folio much like was done with Greyhawk from TSR and is now being done for Airdhe/After Winter's Dark from Troll Lord Games. A more encompassing overview of the countries around Blackmoor, the various forests, noble orders, coats-of-arms etc. Also, more modules for playing in home campaigns like maybe getting Goodman Games to create a few Blackmoor Dungeon Crawl Classics. Basically, more of everything. Wink
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-Havard


  [ZGG Repost] Regional Map
Posted by: Havard - 01-05-2010, 11:50 AM - Forum: Archived Discussions (Members Only) - No Replies

http://mmrpg.zeitgeistgames.com/index.p ... opic&t=540

Havard:
I made a regional map for Blackmoor:



http://boards1.wizards.com/showthread.p ... st11120738

Post your comments there or here. Let me know what you think?

EDIT: Direct link to the map itself here: http://www.pandius.com/BlackmoorRegionalMap.jpg

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Rafael:

WOAH, BABY! Great! Plus, matches almost totally with my vision of linking both settings!

:applause:

:applause:

:applause:
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Havard:
Thanks! Thats great to hear Smile

I used the Pre-Cataclysmic map of Mystara as a basis for the coastlines, but modified it slightly to fit with the more specific coastal features of Blackmoor and also the area around the Wilderlands. I am planning on expanding it further south to include the entire Wilderlands, the Demon Empires(Wilderlands) and the lands of the Tanogoro(Mystara). Also, there are a few more Thonian provinces to include. I don't have names for those though. Are there any maps of Greyhawk's Great Kingdom availabla online BTW?
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Lkj:
There was someone on the Necromancer Wilderlands board asking about just such a map. I linked your map (very cool by the way) for him. Hope that's all right. Here's the relevant thread if you want to put in your two cents:

http://p105.ezboard.com/Blackmoor/fnecr ... =405.topic

AD

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bgilkison:
Pre- or post-Greyhawk Wars? There's the above at the following: http://www.highprogrammer.com/alan/gami ... index.html, but it doesn't go into great detail specifically on the Great Kingdom (both maps cover the entire Flanaess).

If you have or can get access to Campaign Cartographer, there are some maps associated with the unpublished Ivid the Undying manuscript at the Canonfire! website: http://www.canonfire.com/cfhtml/modules ... oad&cid=15

The entire text of Ivid the Undying is also available on Canonfire! at http://www.canonfire.com/cfhtml/modules ... tit&lid=29 . It is set post-Greyhawk Wars, so I'm not sure if it will have the older province names, but it might be worth a perusal...
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Hey, that's great! Its nice to have this thing spread to those who may have an interest in the map.

Plus, it adds to my geekly fame Wink

Cheers,
Havard
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Havard:
I have decided to expand the map, incorporating the entire Wilderlands setting.

EXPANDED BLACKMOOR REGIONAL MAP:
http://www.pandius.com/BlackmoorRegionalMapWL.jpg

Comments? Smile
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Rafael:
As soon as I find the time, I'll post some suggestions for the GK provinces...

As to Greyhawk, two are simply named North Province and South Province, IIRC.

In any case, Harv, you will have the honour to be *printed out and painted over and over* in my next Blackmoor session. Smile Errh, your map, of course...

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Havard:
Cool Cool

I just made a few minor modifications to the Expanded map. Make sure you get the latest version.

Also, notice that from the very first map, I have moved the Province of Bolgerie south west. It should be close to the Tanagoro realms, since both the Bolgers and the Tanagoro are based on RW African cultures.

Havard
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Sheridan:
It's my Ancient Mystara setting - exactly the way I had always pictured it - AWESOME!
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Havard:
Thats great Smile

I have been paying attention to online discussions about combining the three settings for some time and I have tried to be mindful of the points I have come across, including yours. I'm happy that most people seem to be okay with it.

For me it was really useful to get the thing visualized.

Havard
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Rafael:
Smile Seriously, Harv, this might be the best fan contribution to my games in years.
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Havard:


Thanks buddy, you are too kind! Smile

Let me know how the printing goes. The map is optimised for web use, so if you need a version with better resolution, I can probably hook you up with one.

Havard
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The Wondering Bard:
I like the map!! It kicks butt!!
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Shane:
Havard, I was wondering why you're considering using the Great Kingdom as a source for Thonia. Were the two realms synonymous in Arneson's and Gygax's original Blackmoor/Greyhawk campaigns?

Travis
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Shane:
Oh, I found the thread where Thonia=Great Kingdom was discussed:

http://www.dablackmoor.com/MMRPG/index. ... 7&start=15

I wonder how Greyhawk's Great Kingdom of Aerdy can be melded into Blackmoor's Great Kingdom of Thonia for Mystara?

My first thought is to match up the timelines of Arneson's and Gygax's original campaigns to find the extent (i.e. the geographic borders) of the Gygax's Great Kingdom at the time of classic Blackmoor. I mean, what year(s) (in both Blackmoor's timeline and Oerth's timeline) did Svenny traveled from Blackmoor to Aerdy and back? Whatever date this was can then be equated. Then, whatever the Great Kingdom was like at this time can be used for Thonia. Of course there would need to be some adapting of the shape of the Great Kingdom to fit eastern Skothar*. Also, some equations would need to be made as far as names of places, people, and other Greyhawk elements (e.g. "Aerdy" = "Thonia"?).

*Unless the lands of the Great Kingdom of this time (but not of the rest of the Flanaess or Oerth) were simply attached to the map southeast of Blackmoor and Karnak so that the Great Kingdom replaces eastern Skothar, kind of like James Mishler's "Mystaroerth" map. I don't know what's best though.

Travis

P.S. I wonder if any of the long-timers who played with Arneson and Gygax have any more ideas of how the two Great Kingdoms were correlated?


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Gsvenson:
I am woefully ignorant of Oerth's timeline and of whatever was officially published about Greyhawk. Svenny and his family traveled to the Great Kingdom (in the summer of 1972 real time) to sell Elven magic items collected for his friends among the Cumasti Elves. That was the official explanation for when I was out of town for about three months and therefore not active in the game. So, I didn't gain any knowledge of the Great Kingdom at that time. Later all of the heroes of the North travelled accross the Great Kingdom to Greyhawk, where Gary's players had gotten into a bad way and we were able to save them from their crisis, but we traveled on tarnback and didn't really have a specific adventure during the trip. Other players crossed between the two campaigns by moving from Lake Geneva to Minneapolis and vice versa, so they might have different and more interesting stories then mine.

Quote:Shane wrote:
P.S. I wonder if any of the long-timers who played with Arneson and Gygax have any more ideas of how the two Great Kingdoms were correlated?
The Great Kingdom was one and the same in both campaigns, as the two campaigns were connected. Dave and Gary collaborated.


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Shane:
Wow, that's interesting. Thanks for responding.

Do you know of any other places that existed (perhaps under different names) in both Arneson's and Gygax's original campaigns, besides Blackmoor, Ten/Tenh, and Thonia/Aerdy?

For those who aren't familiar with James Mishler's combined Oerik/Skothar map, here's a link: http://pandius.com/mystghmp.jpg

James has one of the oldest Mystara home campaigns, and his company owns a license to publish new Wilderlands products.

A melding of Gygax's and Arneson's settings on Mystara might look something like this map, though there's several other possible configurations.


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Havard:
I like James' map and I really wish I was able to replicate that style myself.

I was considering stealing elements from Greyhawk's Great Kingdom, but I wouldn't take things too far. It is my impression that Greyhawk is quite different from Blackmoor, which IMO fits better with the Wilderlands that with GH.

James' map fit GH onto modern Mystara ofcourse, which doesn't help me much since my Blackmoor is placed on Ancient Mystara.

Likewise, the Blackmoor of Greyhawk seems to be quite different from the real Blackmoor, so elements would be stolen, but an exact copy would be taking it too far.

My own idea of Thonia is also that of a more Byzantian or Conan-esque realm, filled with exotic beauty, decadence and corruption. I don't know how well that fits with the GH version.

Havard
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Gsvenson:
I remember you talking about Tarns earlier Greg, and I have been wondering: How common or available were these creatures in Dave's campaign? I have been thinking about giving Blackmoor a small number of Great Eagles or similar flying creatures manned by a small unit in the service of the king. How appropriate would that be do you think? I'm interested in other peoples comments as well.

What flying creatures could be used by the enemies of Blackmoor if any?

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Finarvyn:
Very nice expanded map, Havard! I had seen your early version, but not the one that ties into the Wilderlands campaign.

Well done! Very Happy

_________________
Finarvyn
Warden of Blackmoor
Earl of Stone Creek (Castles & Crusades Society)
D&D Player Since 1975
Original D&D Discussion
Delete this post
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Havard:
Thanks Fin! Smile

I have more maps in the works. If you poke around on the Wayfarer's Inn, you might find more as well... Smile

Havard
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Rafe:
Ahem, Look for Rafe's Tavern on the maps, ahem! Very Happy Very Happy Very Happy
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Havard:
The best Tavern in the Multiverse! Smile
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Rafe:
Many thanks, my friend! But: Oooh, don't force me to write a description...

I can clearly picture chef Havard and barmaiden Fin already...

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Havard:
Actually, a description would be neat. But I assume Fin would probably prefer not being turned into a maiden... Laughing

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Rafe:
Give me a few days, and I'll look if I can hammer out a concept. Smile

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-Havard