Observations on Playing

[Pelham]

I am going to be away for a while, in the process of moving, so I thought I would post a few observations on what it's like to play D&D online on Baldur's Gate. This is all pretty straightforward stuff from the standpoint of a person who comes almost totally from a tabletop roleplaying experience. None of these are complaints, they're just observations. I am having great fun.

1. The plots are high-powered. The implications of the plots are such that the broad range of characters are sorta misplaced. This leads to some interesting party dynamics, as a few belwethers lead a herd of sheep into the climax of the plot. Is it just a sign of the times that everything is a great peril to the city, or are some more subdued goings on coming down the pipe?

2. The economy and merchants are interesting and a little mysterious. I don't really understand what the DM is trying to impart in terms of why things are the way they are. Inheritance is a valid method of acquiring gear, because it is durable in a way that characters are not.

3. The general lethality of the game world leads to some strange bedfellows, in terms of alignment and such. People band together out of raw necessity, eschewing preferences that might normally preclude it. The general lethality of the game world leads to extremely conservative play. Planning and caution are the norm, which is interesting. Heroic acts are actually heroic because, well, it's pretty easy to get beat down.

4. The sparseness of the game world creates a lonely atmosphere. This doesn't bother me, I just note it.

I'll be gone for a little while once the truck pulls on Wednesday, looking forward to more play.

John
aka Pelham
also aka Pel-el

[Vendrin]

Hurry back mate.

[Riotnrrd]

Not much to add, but GREAT feedback, THANK YOU.

[johnlewismcleod]

Got an ETA on return yet, Pelham?

[Pelham]

I have been gone longer than I thought I would, I will be around again now. Word to the wise. If you can, arrange fr your internet service to be set up BEFORE you move. Some cities have long waits.

John
aka Pelham
also aka Pel-el

[Vendrin]

Excellent welcome back. Your character has been needed for some plot resolution. Check your pms.