 When we consider gaming in a fantasy world, it’s difficult to think of any types of heroes beyond the classic classes of the genre. Even variations on those classes still have their roots firmly planted in the Dungeons & Dragons soil – and that’s perfectly fine. Of course, since then, new editions of Dungeons & Dragons have increased the complexity of character creation beyond that which its 1970’s originators would have ever dreamed. Those complexities appeal to many gamers, but others still appreciate the charming simplicity of the old days. For me, it’s all about creativity, not complexity. The 4th Edition Dungeons & Dragons product line by Wizards of the Coast is filled with richly imaginative concepts and features some of the best attempts at offering a deep variety of character creation in all of fantasy gaming. I love WotC’s ideas and flavor, but I’m not crazy about some of the new elements that they have chosen to emphasize. However, I do like very much the concept of the sources of power from which all of the classes derive their abilities. These sources – Martial, Arcane, Divine, Primal, and Psionic – could easily serve as new hero types for porting over a D&D world into World vs. Hero, and each would encourage full creative development by the Hero Player given the openness of their descriptions. Add to those types a few hero races with useful bonuses plus affiliations that are just as open-ended, and any Hero Player would really enjoy creating characters from such a mix. Here are 4th Edition D&D-inspired hero types, races, and affiliations: Hero Types  Divine - Uses prayers bestowed by the gods Martial - Performs exploits of strength and will Primal - Calls evocations from nature itself Psionic - Practices disciplines of the mind Hero Races Dwarf - Hardy; cast-iron stomach; stands firm when in combat; skilled dungeoneer. Elf - Agile; ignores difficult terrain; enhances group awareness; can focus for accuracy. Half-Orc - Fierce; can be intimidating; resilient when wounded; furiously assaults foes Halfling - Bold; resistant to fear; quick-witted; dodges attacks via size and luck. Human - Versatile; starts with six points of Suit Abilities, plus an extra [1] Suit Ability. Hero Affiliations Church/Temple of __________. The Order of __________. The __________ Guild. The __________ Society/Brotherhood/Sisterhood. College/University of __________. And here’s the first hero that I made from the above: Kassianna Human Divine Hero, Agent of the Radiant Sisterhood Devoted to Pelor, god of sun, summer, and time, Kassianna is a founding member of the Radiant Sisterhood. When the seers of the Radiant Sisterhood locate individuals who carry darkness in their hearts as well as the potential for goodness and heroism, Kassianna is dispatched to make contact and to convince them to join an adventuring party, embarking on risky but rewarding quests. In reality, the quests serve to test the “recruits” and lead them down the path of salvation. Kassianna’s mission is motivated by her belief that a war between the gods is imminent, and everything must be done to minimize the number of mortals who would side with the deities of evil. To that end, Kassianna’s operation is simple: conversion through adventure, or die trying… SUIT ABILITIES Hearts [4] – Cleric of Pelor, casts prayers of light and purity Hearts [2] – Experienced Leader, motivates others even during a crisis Clubs [1] – Mace Wielder, bashes enemies when not using prayers ARTIFACT Hearts [2] – Symbol of Life, enhances healing prayers that help others SPECIAL FX Queen of Hearts – Sunburst Prayer: brutally sears enemies while healing all allies Say what you will about today's - or yesterday's - D&D. The fact remains that it still serves as the preeminent and quintessential story game of all time and will always be a great source of inspiration! |