On 12/19/2011 4:22 AM, SARAH wrote:
>
> Here's another one. How would you model a contest where multiple
> opponents are attacking a single PC in very different ways? How do you
> manage the ability (or abilities?) the PC is using?
>
> Let's take the attack on Gringle's pawn shop in Return to Apple Lane.
> PC #1 is trying to drive away Darsten's bunch of farmers and raiders,
> using his Sword & Shield against a Moderate resistance of (say) 16
> (it's session #5). Then, Erianda decides she's going to use her
> Darkness power to blast pc #1 with Fearshock and try to kill him.
> She's a Very Hard resistance (16+9=25), and as an additional opponent
> PC#1 is at a -3 multiple opponent penalty.
>
> My question is: what ability does PC#1 use in his roll against
> Erianda? If it was a completely free choice, he might try to jump out
> of the way - but this is a different ability to the Sword & Shield
> he's using against the thugs. If he's forced to use Sword & Shield,
> then maybe he tries to parry the Fearshock, at a considerable stretch
> penalty. But maybe he has a 'Resistant to Darkness Magic' ability, or
> a Fire / Light rune? Or maybe he is only allowed to use his default
> magic resistance of 14. Can he use a different ability against the
> second foe? What about augments?
>
I believe this falls under the heading of changing abilities in a
contest. The PCs and NPCs can do that. Or, maybe it is an Asymmetrical
Exchange (RAW p 39):
"Asymmetrical Exchanges
You may choose to briefly suspend your attempt to best your opponent in
an extended contest, in order to do something else. An instance where
one contestant is trying to win the contest and another is trying to do
something else is called an asymmetrical exchange."
At any rate, I would let the player choose the option of their own
defense if they can see it coming, and with your help if they can't (a
la "I don't see how that would work out... if you want to it is a stretch.")
Bo