Re: I could use some advice...

From: Jarec <jarec_at_...>
Date: Wed, 13 Jun 2001 07:31:21 -0000

> a) When dealing with ranged combat, what abilities are most
appropriate for
> the opponent (assuming they are not returning some ranged attack)?
My
> current thought is that some sort of specific "Dodge Missiles" type
ability
> or feat would be used at full skill, while a "Hide in Cover" or a
simple
> "Dodge" or "Agile" would be used with an improvisational modifier.
If a
> Close Combat ability were being used it seems I should impose a
more hefty
> improvisational penalty, while "Brew Mead" is right out. Does this
seem
> right?

A lot depends not only on what abilities the target has but whether it would be appropriate for them to use them. Firing a missile at a guard from cover would not give the guard much he could use anyway. I can think of plenty of examples where the target would be reduced to a base 6 ability level. Even allowing for negative range penalties to the attacker this really makes ranged combat deadly when used intelligently. Even a skilled hero can be killed by a well placed arrow in the back, quite realistic really.

At times when the opponent can see you I would allow things like run, dodge, even hide in cover as defensive abilities. It helps to have a clear picture in your mind of just how the stage is set and what the various actors are doing.

Hope this helps.

Jarec