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« on: July 08, 2012, 04:56:17 PM »
I am planning a one-shot intro for a Dresden Files RPG. We only have 4-6 hours to play, but I am really hoping to start a campaign based on interest so I want to really show off the system. Here are some thoughts I had, and I would love feedback and suggestions.
1. Use pregenerated characters. I figured the Kids from Night Terrors would work well. I wish we had time for full character creation, but hopefully filling in skills and aspects will give them a taste.
2. Create an island. We don't have time for full city creation, so instead each player picks one thing they expect to find on the island they all shipwrecked on ( it was only supposed to be a 3 hour tour) and we turn those choices into locations.
3. Offer some power options. I know at least one player wants to sling spells, so instead of tweaking characters I want to have a face or more offer items of power or better yet sponsored magic. I am hoping this will inspire some good roleplaying as well.
4. Hilight the unique strengths of the system. I want the climax scene to be less about physical combat and more mental/social. Maybe resisting a demon offering power or a way home. I also want to get the players used to tagging aspects and being tagged.
5. Make some handouts. Besides printing the character sheets I figure I will need a few index cards for any spells or items the sponsors offer and perhaps a quick sheet on combat basics (common skills, Using maneuvers, consequences, etc).
6. Keep the plot simple. I love complicated plot twists, but for a one-shot that just won't do. So the kids are shipwrecked and need to get home. They explore the island until they find someone that offers to send them home if they get rid of a demon. The demon is bound to an idol, so all they really have to do is break it or toss it in the ocean while the demon tries to persuade them not to.
7. Use everyones contribution. The demon and the sponser will each fit into one of the locations a player makes for the island, but I don't want to leave anyone's creativity out. Throw in a couple challenges to make sure every location has something interesting (a climb check or a snake to fight) and I hope to have a winner that everyone wants to play again.