PlayByWeb

This is the web site for the PlayByWeb game NEO Calls.

We will be using my D20 conversion of XXVC. Combat rolls by the player will be kept to a minimum, as combat on PlayByWeb using D20 can quickly bog down the game. So, having the D20 conversion isn't technically necesary. I ask that players post daily, or at least every other day. I understand that this is sometimes difficult (I will sometimes miss a day), so this rule won't be strict.

Requirements to Play

Characters will be first-level NEO recruits. NEO is predominantly Terran, but there is room in the organization for any race. You should download my D20 conversion. If you can not or choose not to, just send me what information you can and I will finish the rest before the game begins.

To play you must complete each of the following steps:

• Fill out a Character Record Sheet. Send it to me. If you con't have the D20 conversion, give me what you can and I'll finish the process.
• Send me a detailed description of your character. Include physical attributes, some psychological data (e.g. Why did this character join NEO, why does (s)he hate RAM, what are their worst fears, etc.).

Characters

Equipment

The characters will start out at first level with zero experience. They have been assigned to local duty at Salvation III Station. They would most likely have a small, personal weapon, but might not have a rocket launcher. It's up to you, but please try to make their equipment reasonable.

Stats

For hit points, give your character the maximum allowed hit points at first level. At every other level, reroll all 1s.

For Attributes, we are going to use a point buy system. All abilities start at 8. Using 32 points, you may buy higher ability scores using the following table:

Combat

Combat will be run in the following fashion. At the beginning of combat, everyone will declare their objectives and tactics. I will simulate all action until something "important" happens, but at most a few rounds. For isntance, if somebody is injured for more than a minor wound, an enemy tries to flee, somebody's weapon jams, or perhaps 4 rounds pass, the combat will be stopped, and the players will be be given the chance to modify their tactics.

Tactics can be specified in a variety of ways. Firstly, a simple command can be issued, such as "Fire the rocket pistol at the gennie." When the gennie dies, you should be prepared to give another command. A more complex approach canbe taken with conditional commands, such as, "I fire at the gennie, but if anyone else enters the room, I fire at them."

Skill Checks

Skill checks will be done by the DM. I do this to keep things moving fast. In past games, I've seen posts like the following:

Player:  I try to find information in the reference section

         about "Terrines."



    DM:  Alright do you use "Gather Information" or "Library Research"?



Player:  Which one should I use?



    DM:  Your Library Research is higher.



Player:  That's what I use.



    DM:  Roll it.



Player:  OK.  I roll...



    DM:  Here's what happens...

So, this took four rounds. This can happen pretty often. Now, imagine the following happens:

Player:  I try to find information in the reference section

         about "Terrines."



    DM:  You rolled an XX on your Library Research and you

         succussfully find...

That was just one round. It was much easier, wasn't it? That's why I prefer to roll things myself. Nothing will be hidden, but it makes things run much faster. (Of course, this was an exaggeration, but the point is the same.)

Background

The natives of Earth have just struck a major blow to the RAM corporation. The main orbital station from which RAM organized their occupation of the planet was disabled. RAM hasn't been completely crippled, however. They now retalliate against the Terrans for their show of force.

The New Earth Organization, or NEO, has spearheaded the resistance of Earth's native Terrans. As the main millitary force for the entire planet, NEO does everything from space combat and guerilla warfare on Earth, to weapons trade and diplomacy. It was NEO that struck the blow to RAM. It is NEO, now, that must deal with the wrath of the giant Martian corporation.

The PCs will start as an organized NEO team. They will begin at Salvation III Station, in orbit around Earth. Salvation is the secret headquarters of NEO, so the characters would be equipped. However, they are assigned to station maintenance or other local work, so they wouldn't be armed to the teeth yet. There will be adequate opportunity to buy and sell additional hardware soon.