- 171

TM

,________. ..______.]E �CO)]E §

Character Creation System

for 20th Century Roleplay Games
A detailed, stand-alone system for creating intensely
individualized, involved and invigorating backgrounds,
personalities, motivations, and skills for both player characters
and nonplayer characters alike-complete with roleplay hints,
gameplay benefits, and guidelines for fitting skills into any
roleplay rules system.

by Paul Jaquays
with Randall G. Kuipers & John Terra

Credits Produced by Acknowledgements

Editor/Art Director: Paul Jaquays
Cover Artist: Susan Van Camp
JAQUAYS This book is for my parents William K. and Janet

DESIGN
Jaquays, in recognition of their supreme tolerance
Illustrators: Tom Dow, Paul Jaquays, in raising a child who they let follow after his own
Zachary Jaquays, Randall G. Kuipers, dreams.
Diana Harlan Stein, and L.A. Williams
Page Design: Paul Jaquays
Logotype Design: Darlene
STUDIO The author extends his appreciation to William W.
Connors, Randy R. Cox, FASA, GOW, Steve
Jackson Games, Robert Leake, Mayfair Games,
Pasteup: Randy R. Cox & Paul Jaquays. More than just a John Olsen, Mike Pond smith, Greg Stafford, TSR,
and Richard Tucholka, for their generous help in
Review & development: Ruta Jaquays good idea (or two)
providing research material for this book.
 I
Introduction 3 How to Use this Book

Introduction How to Use

With this book, the trilogy ol character creation books that
began with Centrs/ Casting™: Heroes ofLegend, comes lo corrple­
this Book
tlon. Each book has dean with a major theme from roleplaying. That
first book, begun in 1978 and published In t 988, covered the most Lei's do iU Grab your favorite bag of dice, and we'll start creat­
popular game genre, fantasy. The second, Heroes for Tomorrow ing super-exciting dynamic characters that look, feel, and act like
encompassed the broad variety of science fiction games that have they just walked out of the pages of a comic book, horror novel or
been ... and are yet to come. spy adventure.
Whh Heroes NOW!(or CC3as we call h), we 're covering an even
broader range of games-those that take place in the 2oth century.
We've had to adjust the CC3 tables to cover a world populated by
Before Starting
heroes from greatly dllf erent game genres. Herein you will be able to Make sure you have the following Items: a variety ol dice
create truly memorable (and possibly exotic) pasts for stealth y spie s (d4, d6, d6, d1 O, d2o-il you don't know what these are see Dice
and super-powered types; for hard-bitten private eyes and wild-eyed Explanallons on page 5), a sharpened pencil, several photocopies
supernatural investigators; and of course, for unshaven two-listed of the characterworksheet. and acouplebookmarks (trust me, you
archeologists and trigger-happy gangsters. will need these at first). Permission is granted to photocopy the
Whh all this material, we've had to bring in help to get It done. As worksheet on page 112 lor personal use only.
in the past, Paul Jaquays has produced the book. Randy Kuipers
(whose well-used copies of the first two Central Casting books were
autographed by the author-but to someone else) reworked old Getting Started
tables and added new ones(and Illustrated things too!). John Terra Creating character histories is fun, but it takes time. Plan on
(who actually plays 20th century RPGs) gave us some new genre spending as much as a hatt-hour per character. However, there
event tables. are short-cuts you can take. For a quick NPC (or player character)
Other contributors include illustrators Tom Dow, Zachary Jaq­ history, go to NPCs: Creating Special Characters on page 11. II
uays, Diana HMan Stei n (twice-nominatedfor a fan artist Hugo), and you fust want to get going, jump ahead to Adventure in the 20th
L. A. Williams. Century and start rolling dice. On the other hand, if you want to
Heartfelt appreciation goes out to the individuals and companies know what to do when you get there ... read on.
who provided the much-needed relerence material for this book: Bill
Connors, Randy Cox, Robert Leake, John Olsen, Mike Pondsn-ith,
Kevin Siembida, Greg Stafford, and Richard Tucholka; and to Those Funny Numbers
F.A.S.A., Game Designers Workshop, Mayfair Games, Palladium
Books, R. Talsorian Games, Steve Jackson Games, Task Force You've probably noticed that every table starts with a three-dig­
Games, Tri Tac Systems, TSR Inc., and West End Games. it number like 101 or 745. There are reasons for this.
As we said, this book completes the original trilogy. Will Central lnltially. you use these tables in sequence. After Table 101:
Casting go on from here? Good question. At this point, we don, Character Origins you go to 102, then to 103 and so on. When you
know-though a revised second edition to thefirst book is undercon­ complete Table 312: Alignment & Attitude, you're done (mosUy).
sideration. Let us know what you want In the way of game back­ However (you ask). if 312is the last table, why do tables 413
ground development aids. Write and tell us you really want more! through 965 exist? Good question!
The rest of the tables are like data banks in a computer or
reference books In a library. Although the table numbers have
"Political Correctness" Warning nothing to do with the Dewey Decimal System, they do divide the
It was decided well In advance that this boo k would definitely tables into nine general categories. You will be jumping around
not be "politically correct.· In fact, its contents tend toward the from table to table, grabbing a bit of data here, a piece ot informa­
socially, politically, morally, ethically, and rellglouslyconservatfve tion there until you are done creating the history.
side. To telf the truth, the authors and editors think our heritage of
western culture, heterosexualhy, tradltional families, Judeo-Chris•
tian values, Jesus Chrtst and God are all pretty neat While we
won, force them on you, we do recommend them lo everybody-­ 1 00'S· Character's Heritage and Birth
your ltte can only better for ii. As such, this book contains expres• 200's• Signtticant Events of life & Education
sions of the authors' personal value structures that could be quite
unpopularwhh those who assign equal va lue to alfcullures, relig­ 300 'S· Personality Development
ions, lttestyles, sexual, or moral choices.
As to those who may feel that adventure gaming is an Incor­
400'S• Occupations & Hobbles
rect forum in which to express edltorial vi ews on these matters, S00'S· MiscellaneousEventTables
just took at the burgeoning presence of opposing views and de­
composing values aired In television. movies. books, "art," public 600'S· PersonalttyTraits (good. bad, and weird)
schools, the news and indeed, adventure gaming itself. It's 700 'S· Various People/Being types
dttficult to buck the trends, but someone has to balance the scales.
Consider this book to be one of the ·op-Ed" pages In gaming. 800'S •· Miscellaneous Other Stuff
So if your sensibilities will be offended by exposure to values
other than those of the "pop" philosphles of the moment, you had
900'S• GM's ONLY(players not allowed)-we're serious
best return this book to the shett now. We'd about this. Players and GMs don1 read this unless you are told
sure like you to buy It, but not at the cost of Paul Jaquays to by the book. Donl spoil It for your tater characters.
compromising our own beliefs. May 26, 1991
Rules & Terms 'n Stuff 4 Rules & Terms 'n Stuff

Rules & Terms

the basics, but has yet to become competent.
a Rank 3. Average. Mostlolk who practice this skill never go
much beyond this level of mastery.
'n Stuff Cl Rank 4. Fairly Competent. The character is better than
average and shows talent. but nothing extraordinary.
Central Casting™: Heroes NOW/ is a generic roleplaylng Cl Rank 5. Good! The character may be a journeyman al this
aid for use with all game systems. Even though game rules are as skill. There's real talent here that needs further developing.
varied as humanity, like humanity, they all share basic precepts. Cl Rank6. VeryGood!!The character is goodenoughrohave
The Central Casting system builds upon these likenesses lo some razzle dazzle at the skill, but is not yel a master. But then,
provide solid game-play benefits for characters whose histories It only a master of the skill would know that.
creates. A basic set of mechanics for generic attributes and rela­
tive skill systems follows. In some cases these are guidelines, in a Rank 7. A Master. Many will seek the character tor service
others, minimal rul e systems are setfonh to accommodate special and Instruction.
skills that may not be duplicated by each and every game system. Cl Rank 8. A Renowned Master. Folk from distant comers of
These "rules" are here lo help you adapt the Central Casting the world know of the character's skill.
histories to your favorite game system, not to replace those rules.
In all cases, the Game Master (GM) who moderates the game Cl Rank 9. A Grand Master. There are few, ff any with greater
campaign is the last word on his game wortd, not !his book! The skill. The characte(s skill is known throughout the world (or even
author strongly suggests that your GM be allowed to read this book the galaxy!). Such talented people are quite rare.
before cre ati ng histories tor charactersin herworld andthat 11 pos­ Cl Rank 10. Legendary Skill.Though still within mortalbOunds,
sible, the GM be allowed to be a part of creating thal history. Keep tales of the character's prowess will live on long atter she is gone.
in mind, however, that !his Is now yourbook; � you wish lo change Hardly ever encountered.
anything, go ahead!
a Rank 11+. Mythical Skill. The character has ability tar
Generic Pronouns: For the mosl pan, Central Casting uses beyond the mortal norms. Some kind of alien, superscienoe or
the pronouns "he," •him," and "his" in the generic sense to reterto supernatural Influence must be present tor the character to obtain
characters, GMs and players of bOth sexes. Sometimes we use !his level of skill.
"she," "her,• and "hers" In the same sense. For the most part,
genderreferences are interchangeable. Make appropriate gender
substitutions as necessary when creating your characters. GeneralAttributes
II ls fair to say that no two game rules systems are exactly
Character History Worksheet identical, especially when it comes 10 a character's attributes, the
building blocks which form the character's physical and mental
Go lo page 112. See the form there? Good! Make a bunch ot existence and define many of the character's basic skills, his life
copies of it (Go on, the publisher's already said it's OK. Trust usl), energy, pslonlc abill ty and so on. Nevertheless, most, if not all,
Notice how lots of lines have thosetunnynumberswe talked about systems build their characters up from similar types of attributes.
earlier next to them. Well, lhe information you need to till in the Centtal Casting assumes thal most characters will have basic
blanks next to each number comes from a table in !his bOok with allributes similar to or based on the ones described below. During
a matching number. In fact, if you want, you can ignore all these the course of generating a history. some of these attributes may be
VERY IMPORTANT (but time-consuming nonetheless) instruc­ modified by events In the characte(s lite, Record any modifications
tions and Just go to the tables indicated by the numbers there and to the character's attributes In the spaces provided in lhe lower
lollow those directions. What do you mean where's the NAME right-hand corner of the history worksheet.
Table? Umm ... we think maybe you shoul d just Keep reading the
rules. OK? We won1 tell anybody. We promise. O Strength. Sometimes called Physical Strength, this is a
measure of the character's ability lo lift, move, wear or use things.
Low Strength indicates a weakling, while high Strength is found in
Central Casting Skill System muscle-bound heroes.
To be all things to all roleplaylng games, the Central Casting a Intelligence. Also called 10. This is braininess, the abilhy
game aids use an 11-level Ranking system lor all skills and abili­ to think logically, solve problems, and deal wllh complicated con­
ties that a character may learn, including combat (weapon use), cepts. Low Intelligence indicates dellcient mental ability. High
magic use and occupational skills. The Rank system is designed Intelligence Is genius level,
to work wah game systems in a relallve manner, Based on the t
to 1 0 value range for known skills, a character with a Rank 1 skill □ Luck. Called Power by some, ltcan also bean indicator olthe
al something would be a beginner. novice or apprentice, while a character's Sani ty. It Is a measure of the character's Innate ability
character with a Rank 10 ability would be a master whose skills to ride out the influences of the random events in the universe.
have reached lhe mortal limits available to those of his racial her­ Cl Willpower. This iS a measure ot a character's abillly to
itage. The Rank system is easily extended beyond 1 Oto accom• resist psionic (mental) attacks, overcome personal temptations, or
modate those characters whose skills become mythical, ap­ urge his body on to feats above and beyond their normal capabili­
proaching those ol legendary heroes or demigods. ties. It is also his strength for psionic attacks against others.
The Central Casting Ranks are:
0 Dexterity. Sometimes referred to as Agillty or even Phys­
□ Rank O. None. The character has no knowledge of, talenlfor, ical Prowess and includes Manual Dexterity. It is a measure of a
or skills at the indicated occupation or skill. character's nimbleness, lhe ease with which he moves. Low
a Rank I.A Raw Beginner. The character knows just enough De xterity means a slow, clumsy character, while high Dexterity can
to perform a skill, or be dangerous with it. mean a hand Iha! is lruly quicker than the eye.
a Rank 2. An Apprentice. The character has learned most of □ Constitution. This is the measure of a character's health,
Rules & Terms 'n Stuff 5 Dice Explanations

his physical well being. A character with a high Constitution can from childhood into adulthood. A character at this age will only
generally be expected to endure physical hardsh ips with ease, and have (1d6x 10)+30% of his Strength, and Constitution attributes.
be more resistant to disease and injury. Adutthood. This is quite often as much a social consideration
Q Charisma. Used here In the sense of personal magnetism as It is a physical one. The character Is assumed to be a full and
or leadership ability, this is not Appearance. A character with low responsible member of soci ety. All fhe character's attributes are at
Charisma would have problems attracting followers . their peak.
Mature, Elderly, and Ancient. At some point in a character's
Q Appearance. This Is also called Physical Beauty or Come­ life , his body begins to slowly deteriorate under the burden of age.
liness, but Is often called Charisma. It is essentially a charactefs His reflexes slow, his strength wanes and his mind wanders.
looks, what others see. A low Appearance is unattractive, while a Those attributes that decline with advancing age and the stage of
character with very high Appearan ce would llterallystun members life in which attribute decline begins, is listed below. When a
of both sexes. If a game system does not normally have an character reaches an age in which decline could begin (see chart
Appearance attribute, the Charisma attribute does double duty below), roll a d8 for each affected attribute. If the result is an 8,
and represents both. reduce the attribute by 1point {See Bonus9son page 8 for how this
□ Age, This is the character's physical age. When a character affects characters with maxlmumattributeranges higherthan 18).
Roll once each year thereafter.
is born, he is age 0 (zero). Most events that happen to a character
occur at a specnic age. Usually, these characterlslics are calcu•
latedforwardfrombirth. Whencreatingbeginning playercharac:lers, Dexterity decline begins at Mature
Central Casting assumes they begin adventuring just as they Strength decline begins at Mature
reach adulthood. The chart at the bottom oflhe pages hows thetne Appearance decline beings at Elderty
stages for a typical human character. Constitution decline begins at Elderly
Intelligence decline begins at Ancient
Chlldhood. Chi ldhood covers the years pnor to adolescence.
During this period, a character is rarely able to match an adult In
anything. A character af this age will only have (1d6x Age ) %of his Race Adolescent Adult Mature Elderly Ancient
Strength, Constitution, and Intelligence attributes.
Adolescence. During this period, the character transcends Human 13·18 19.:39 40-60 61·8 0 81+

sided die. A result of 1 or 2 means 1. A result of 3 or 4 means 2. A

Dice Explanations result of 5or 6 means 3. A result of 7 or 8 means 4 and a result of
9 or 10 means 5.
D d6. A six-sided die (probably the most famllla r type): generates
a number from 1 to 6.
You need dioe to use Central Casting. Raiding a couple board 0 d8. An eight-sided die: generates a number from 1 to 8.
games for a handful of six-sided di ce will not do. C9ntral Cas�ng D d10. A 10-sided die: generates a number from 1 to f o. How­
assumes you have polyhedron dice, that is: four, six, eight, 10, 12, ever, It is often marked 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9. When used as a
and20-slded dice. At least one of each type Is needed, buttt would d10, the zero means 10. A 20-sided die easily simulates a d10 if
be best tohave ehher two 10-sided ortwo 20-slded dice in different It is marked from 0- 9 twice (and not 1· 20).
colors. In all likelihood, the place where you bought this book will 0 d12. A 12-sided die. llgenerates a numberfrom 1 to 12.
also have the dice. 0 d20. A 20-sided die: generates a number from 1 to 20.
Throughout Central Casting, abbreviations are consistently However, many d 20s are marked o to 9 IIKe a d1o, but repeated
used to refer to the different die types. The letter "cl" preceding a twice. In this case, you need to indicate which set of o to 9
number indicates a die. The number foilowing the "d" i s the number represents 1 to 10 and which set represents 11 to 20 (color each
of sides on the die and usually Indicates the the highest number set of numbers with dHferentlycolored pens or crayons). Or use a
that can be roiled on that die. The number preceding the · .d" d10 and a d6 to simulate the result of a d 20. Roll the d1o for a
indicates the number of dice of that kind to be rolled. Still other dice numberlrom 1 fotO, and the d6to obtain a "HI/Lo"value. ff thed6
are created by combining or modnying other die rolls (see specific is Lo, the d1ovalue is 1to 10.11 the d6 ls HI, add 10to the d10roll
die types below). to get a number from 11 to 20.
Examples: If a d6 Is called for, roll a single six-sided die. For Od100. A 100-sided die: generates a number from 1 to 00 (100).
2d4, roll two, four-sided dice and add the results together . If a die A true 1 00•sided die is commercially available, However, a dl 00
type is shown with a plus(+) sign and a second number after the rs easily simulated with two d1Os {which must be different colors).
die type, such as "1d4+3," then the number after the plus sign is One df 0will represent a f 0's digij (multiply the die resuH by 10) and
added to the die roll. II a minus sign follows the die type, then any the other the one's digit (1 through 10). AHer specHylng which die
following number Is subtracted from the die roll as In "2d10-1.' represents the 10's digit, roll the dice. Add the results. Example:
Central Casting uses the following real and simulated dice: results of 4 0 (4 x 10) and 6 added together become a result of 46.
D d2 or"HI/Lo," Tachnically, this is not a die. When indicated, It □ Percentiles. Often, Cenrral Casting will state that there is a
means that a six-sided die should be rolled. ff the resull is 1, 2. or percentage chance that some circumstance will occur, Sl!Ch as
3, the roll is low (Lo) or 1, If the result Is 4, 5or 6, the roll is high (HI) "There is a 15%chanoe the character will be left-handed." To ob•
or 2. lain a percentile result, roil a d100. If the result is less than or equal
o d3. Not a true die. The result ofa d 3is obtainedby rollinga six• to the given percentage chance, the circumstance occurs. If the
sided die. A result of 1 or 2 means 1. A result of 3 or 4 means 2. A result is greater than the chance, the circumstance does not occur.
result of 5 or 6 means 3.
O d4. A four-sided die: generates a number from 1 to 4.
0 dS.Not atrue die. The result of a d 5 is obtained by rolling a 10·
Applying the Guidelines 6 Applying the Guidelines

Applying the
shop (Twilight 2000' ,. rules). Can't find a recently published title
here? Look for the publisher's game systernl
Special notes are given for a few systems to improve the

Guidelines conversion, but don't expect these guides to create an absolutely

perfect fit tor each and every game system. You, or yourGM might
want to use these guidelines as a staning place, then tweak them
even further to get a tailored fit.
OK, now you know what is meant by having a Rank 1 skill
with a rffle and approximately what characteristic is implied when Trademark Note: The inclusion of these product names in no
the text mentions Physical Strength. Although It's ea.sy for me to wayimplies an approved usage or official licensing of the contents
say•a characterwith a Rank 10 ability would be a master of legen• of this book with any of the mentioned products . Furthermore, the
dary skill who has reached the mortal llmtts available to those of his use of any product without mention of Its correct trademark status
racial herltage,'' what does ii mean? How do you apply this to your should not be construed as a challenge to such status.
game? What are some quick, last rules to convert skill Ranks to Skill levels (0 to 10+ Range)
yourgame system?
Central Casting'"' adrnitted lyfavors skill-based game systems GarMs: Twilight 2000' "' game system (includes Cadillacs &
(as opposed to character-level-based systems). Where the rules Dinosaurs and DatkConspiracy•,.games). Cyberpunk game, the
already deal with multiple character skills, It is easier to add to or Catalyst',. rofeplaying aids, Shadowrun™ game.
modffy those skills, Where such skills do not exist, the player and Typical Features: These games generally assume a skill
his GM may want to superimpose them on the game system. range of 01 ·10, where a ·o· ranking means no sklU at all.
Making the Conversion: The Central Casting skill Rank
Converting Ranks equals the character's skill level.
Game systems, despite their diff erences in cont ent, tend to fall Shadowrun"' game notes: Any skills are acquired at a
Into general classttications as far as their actual game mechanics minimum skill Rank of 2 and a maximum skill Rank of 6.
are concerned. The guidelines that follow suggest methods for
convening skill Ranks gained from a Central Casting™ back· Skill levels (0 to 20+) Range)
ground Into skill levels, percentages, bonuses or modffiers tor a Games: GURPS/!J game, Time Lords' ,. game, Iron Crown
number of popular, and not-so-popular gaming systems. Enterprises' Ro/emaste'®game systems, Bureau 13-Stalklng the
The class ifications are based on the way that the games ap• Night Fantastic.
proach the usage of character skills. Look for your favorite rules Typical Features: These games otten assume a skill range ot
system in the examples following each general classttication. Note 01-20, where a "O" ranking means no skill at all. The pla yer usually
that many publishers have begun using the same game system has to roll equal to or under the skill number on either a d20 or 3d6
with many or all of their games. Cheers to corrpanies like Cha­ for a skill use to succeed.
oslurn (Basic Roleplaylng), HeroGarnes (Hero System'"'), Steve Making the Convel'$lon: Mutt/pl y the Central Casting skill
Jackson Garnes (GURPSJP game system/, Palladium Books® Rank by 2. Then roll a d6 to decide the final skill level. If the result
(Pal/ad/um Books!P Megaversl$) and Game Designers Work- is 5-6, subtract 1 from the resulting skill level.

Big Conversion 'Fable

Central TFOS
casting MSH MSH CAR AD&O TWPS TORG MSPE«• TP/S.I. Hero
Rank Rank Rank# OM OM Bonus Add point/cost Level System
J Beginner Feeble 2 0 basictl)" +1 +1 1/11Opt 0 Base
2 Apprentice Poor 4 0 basiC( l
1
+1 +1 1/tfOpt 1st +1
3 Average TyP.ical 6 +1 +1 +2 +2 2./ 310 pis. 2nd +2
4 Fairly Comp. Good 10 +1 +1 +2 +2 2/3 IQ pts. 3rd +3
5 Good! Good 15 +2 +2 +ti +3 317 IQpls. 3rd +4
6 Very Good! Excellent 20 +2 +2 +3 +3 3/7 !Opts. 4th +5
7 Master Remarkable 30 +3 +3 +4 +3 4 /15 IQ pts. 4lh +6
8 Renowned Mstr, Incredible 40 +3 +4 +4 +4(2) 5th +7
9 GrandMstr. Amazing 50 +4 +5 +5 +5(2) 5th +8
10 Legendary Monstrous 75 +5 +6 +6 +6i2.I 5th +9
11+ Mythical Unearthly 100 +5 +6 +6 +6"'
�

1 AD&O®and Teenagers from Outer Space game notes: Central 3 Mercenaries, Spies & Private Eyes'"" geme notes. In this game,
Casting skill Ranks 1 ·2 correspond to the basic level of proficiency°' characters may attocate "tO� points 10 acquire skils. The numbers below
Knack usage (no additional bonuses!), indicate the cost to acquire a 1 point skill at the given Central Casting Rank
2 TORG"'' game notes: the game onty authorizes the additioo of a values. Skills oosts beyond Rank 7 are reserved for powerful NPCs.
maxJmum of 3 points to any skill.
Applying the Guidelines 7 Applying the Guidelines

GURPSiP game notes: Double the Central Casting"" skill

Rank and add 3 to obtain a corresponding skill level forthis game.
Games that Fit their own Mold
See section on Skill Buying below. These games don1 really flt the standard tormats.
Rolemesfe'®game notes: Subtract 1 from the Central Cast·
Ing skill Rank. Multiply the remainder by 3. Add 1d3 to the result. Ghostbusters ™ game
Use the Skill Rank Bonus charts in the Individual game systems to In this game (Including Ghoslbusters lntemational',.), most
calculate the normal skill bonus. characters possess but four T atents (a.k.a. CC "$kills"), one for
Ste/king the Night Fantastic game notes: add 1d4 to all skill each of their Traits. There are no skill ranks of any kind.
Ranks. Making the Conversion: When your character history is
Skill Levels (0 to 50+) complete, select one skill that would be an appropriate Talent tor
each ot the character's four Tralts. Discard the rest.Total up all the
Games: DC Heroes™ role-playing game. character's skill Ranks (even for those unused skills) and use that
Typical Features: These games often assume a skill range of 0 total or 20 (which ever is higher}, as the character's Brownie Points.
to some high number. For Experienced or Powerful NPCs: Add any skill Ranks to
Making the Conversion: Multiply the Central Casting skill the character's corresponding Trait value.
Rank by Rank/3. Round up to nearest whole number. Examples:
= =
Rank 1 1 x(1/3) 0.33. Round down toO(aminimumlevel in the Marvel SuperHeroes™ game
skHI). Rank 3 = 3 x 313 • 3. Super powers are Ranked by desc,lptlve adjectives, from
Percentage Skills ·Feeble" to "Unearthly." Skills gained from Central casting are
considered "Talents· In this game and are not Ranked. Unusual
Games: Palladium Book� Megave�RPGs(Includes the abilities or powers gained from this book are similar to super
Tsenage Mutant Ninja Turtles® and Other Strangeness, Ninjas & abilities and are Ranked. Since a typical central Casting ability
Supersples"', Heroes Unlimited'"', and Ritts'" games}, Cha­ cannot be rated higher than Rank 6, the corresponding MSH™
os/um RPGs (includes Call of Cthulhu, Cthulhu Now and rank will be no more than Excellent.
Svpetworld""). Gangbusters ™(3rd edition), Chil®(2nd edition}, Making the Conversion: See the Big Conversion Table to
Nightlife, Twilight 2000™, 1st ed. obtainthecomparison of Csntrs/Casling"• Ranks to Marve/Super
Typical Features: These games generally assume a skill Hsroes',. game ranks.
range of 01 • 1oo. The player usually has to roll equal to or under the For Experienced or Powerful NPCs: Double the Central
skill on a d100. Typically, the skill rating for beginning skills is quite Css�ng Rank before converting to MSH Rank.
low.
Making the Conversion: If a Central Casting skill duplicates Top Secret/S.I.1'M game
a skill in the game's rules, use the base chance 1or the skill in the Skills are ranked on a level syslem trom O to 5, where 0
ru les, then multiply the Centra/Castingsklll Rank by5and add the Indicates a basic familiarity with the skill and 5 the highest level ot
result to the base as a one-time bonus. If the skill i s not covered by mastery. See the Big Conversion table for details.
the rules, then multiply the Central Casting skill Rank by 1O to
obtain the starting value forthe skil l. Thereatter, skill increases are
as defined by the game. Games without skill systems
For Experienced NPCs: Add one to the Csntral Cas�ng skill Games: VIiiains and Vigilantes.
rank value, then multiply the total by 1Oto get the N PC's skill rating. Typical Features: These are oflen older games that focused
Gangbusters game notes: For a beglnningcharacter, no skill on combat and made no provision tor non-combat skill usage.
or abillty will be higher than Rank 1. For experienced player Making the Conversion: Use the skill system provided in this
characters or NPCs, use the conversions notes above. Central Casting book (Optional: convert the skill system from
Ch/II game notes: Central Casting skill ranks convert to Chill another favorite RPG to work with this game).
skill levels as follows: Ranks 1·3 equal a"Student" (S) level. Ranks
4-6 equal a "Teach er" (Tl level. Ranks 7.. equal a "Master" (M}
level. Be sure to read the Skill-buying section In these rules.
Generic Skill Use Rules
Nlghtllf•game notes: for a beginning character's skill abili• Skill Rules: When a character wants to use a skill, the
ties, add skill Rank to a 1d10 roll. player must decide what he wishes to accomplish, then use the
following steps to determine success at the skill:
Dice/Skill Modifier Bonuses
Games: Advanced Dungoons & Dragomi:P>game (and other
1. Have lhe GM assign a difficulty rating to the task between
game systems using the AD&C®game rules), 7WERPS""game, two (automatic success) and 50 (nearl y Impossible for even a
Car War.t!l> game, TORG"' game, Mercenaries, Spies & Private Rank 1 O skill master). Remember, the statistical average for a
Eyes™, Teenagers from OUter Space ™. Hero System',. role single d6 roll is 3.5.
playi ng system (including Champions®, Champions, the Super 2. For each skill Rank the character has. he may roll 1d6 (up
Rolepfaying Game™ and Fantasy Hero""· to a maximum of 20d6 for characters with god-like skills).
Typical Features: These games use a relatively small value
3. If the value of a character's attributes (sueh as a high Dex­
to modHy the outcome of a dice roll skillcheck during playorto be terity or a poor Strength} seems likely to affect the outcome, dice
added as a one-time bonus to a skill. maybe added to or subtracted from the character's skill dice (GM's
Making the Conversion: Use the Big Conversion Table to
decision stands here). Add an extra d6 for high attributes. subtract
obtain the bonus mod Hiers for dice rolls or as adds 10 skills. Cro ss a d61or poor ones.
reference the central Casting (Cent. Cast.) skill Rank with the , 4. If the character's totalled die results exceed the task's
column for the appropriate game system (CAR= Car Wars, AO&O difficulty rating, he succeeds with the skil l. If it Is underthedHliculty
= Advanced Dungeons & Dragons, TWPS • TWERPS, MSPE =
rating, he blows It (falls).
M8fCenaries, Spi6s & Private Eyes), TFOS"• = Teenagers from Spacial circumstances may modify this system. When per­
Outer Space). forming a skill under extreme duress(high stress or dangerto ltte
and limb), the GM may, at his discretion, remove one or more of lhe
character's lowest individual die results from the total.However. he
Applying the Guidelines 8 Applying the Guidelines

must announce this BEFORE the player makes any die rolls. Bonus Point Conversion Table
Special Success: If the character rolls all 6's on a task he
would have any chance of success at, he succeeds regardless of Maximum Conversion
any other modifiers that might reduce the number of dice. If the Possible Factor
result would normally exceed the difficulty rating, the character not Attribute Score
only succeeds, but the results of the success are beyond his
wildest expectations (GM interpretation is very important here!). 01-29 X1
Fumbles: This is a "blow-it-badly" result. There are two ways 30-49 x2
to set this up. 50-69 x3
Method A: Mark a big red X on the "1" side of one die used to 70-89 x4
roll the skill check. If this die face comes up during the roll, andthe
character's die results are less than the difficulty rating, the 90-100+ x5
character "fumbles."
Method B: If the character rolls all 1 's, regardless of the
difficulty rating, the character fumbles. You may wish to use both Survival Skills
methods. A fumble means that not only has the character failed in
what he tried to accomplish, but that the end resu It is the worst thing If you were dumped naked in the midst of a forest or in a back
he could imagine happening. alley of an unfamiliar city, could you survive? Most people have the
skills necessary to exist by their wits in their own familiar environ­
Improving skills during game play: To improve a ment, assuming no outside support. Survival Skills are similar to
skill, the character must perform difficult tasks, ones which allow occupations: they encompass a number of skills, rather just one.
the character a chance to fail. Each time a character uses a skill on Survival skills are the means to provide the character with basic
a task with a difficulty rating that is at least equal to the skill's Rank necessities: food, water, clothing and shelter. A Rank 1 Survival
x 3, make a "hash-mark" next to it. After each adventure, the Skill indicates the character is barely able to survive in a familiar,
character may either attempt to improve the skill or wait to "safe," environment. At Rank 3, the character can get by in a
accumulate additional hash marks on a future adventure. familiar place. A Rank of 5 would indicate an ability to get by even
To improve the skill, roll 2d6. If the result is less than or equal in a strange locale, while Rank 10would indicate that the character
to the number of hash marks minus the character's Rank with the can survive and even thrive in a truly exotic or alien setting.
skill, the skill improves by one Rank. A roll of 12 is always a failure. Central Casting recognizes three distinct environments: Wilder­
After rolling, remove all hash marks from the skill. Regardless of ness, Rural and Urban. A character's Cultural Background and
success or failure, the character must start over again collecting Social Status will determine the quality of his skills and the
new hash marks for successful uses. environment for which those skills are best suited. A space for all
three settings has been provided for Survival in the SKILLS section
Bonuses on the character history worksheet.
Wilderness Survival skills let the character survive in the
Skill Bonuses/Penalties: These are expressed as a great outdoors. The character can find food, shelter and water in
number of Ranks to increase or decrease an existing skill. For the wilds, avoid natural predators, even live through dangerous
beginning characters, the GM should not allow any skill to exceed weather conditions and environments.
Rank 6 before starting play. NPC skills may go higher as needed Rural Survival deals with a cross between wilderness and
to fulfill their intended purpose in the game. Urba found around small villages, farms and frontier outposts.
Attribute Bonuses/Penalties:Throughout Central Cast­ Urban Survival skills let the character may make his way in
ing™, characters are rewarded (orpenalized) with changes to their cities. The character knows common customs, where to buy or find
existing physical attributes (such as Strength, Constitution, etc.). food, where to find shelter, how to avoid becoming a victim of
The player is told to add to or subtract points from an attribute. sentient predators, even how to find work.
Record these changes in the section provided for them in the lower
right corner of the worksheet. Literacy
Although these modifications are given as a fixed value (such
as 1 point or 1d3 points), the actual value of the modification de­ Literacy is a character's ability to read and write his native lan­
pends on the highest score possible for the character's attributes guage. A space has been providedfor the character's Literacy skill
when creating the character (Example: 3d6 yields a maximum in the SKILLS section on the worksheet. A character's Tech Level,
value of 18). If the maximum possible attribute score is higherthan Culture and Social Status will affect the quality of Literacy skills.
29, the player must multiply the modification points by a conversion A literate character's initial Literacy Rank will be equal to 1d4
factor to find the actual number of points added to or subtracted plus his SolMod(see Table 103: Social Status) and will never have
from the attribute (see the conversion chart on page 8 for the fac­ an initial Rank of less than 1 nor more than 7.
tors and attribute ranges).
The GM should review and approve all changes brought about
by attribute increases or decreases. He may not want a demigod
Starting Money
or a hopeless wimp running around in his campaign. Central Casting Heroes NOW!uses the generic American term
"dollars" to represent a unit of money. In most places, money is the
thing one needs to get by. Newplayer characters are often assign­
ed a certain amount of money to purchase supplies. This is called
"Starting Money." Some entries in Central Casting will modify a
character's Starting Money, usually multiplying it by a percentage.
Keep a running tally of these money modifications in the space
provided for Starting Money Modifier in the box in the lower right
hand corner of the character history worksheet.
Ceal CastingrM &"Skill Buying" 9 Creating a Character History

Central Casting™ Creating a

& "Skill Buying" Character History
In those game systems (such as the GURPs:13), Hero Although you can create a character just for fun, you may want
System™ , and Mercenaries, Spies & Privage Eyes™ games) to actually have a character in your game to write about. Follow
where the creation of "balanced" characters is based on spending these steps below
a fixed number of points to acquire a character's attributes and
skills, try the following: First Steps to Character Creation
One. Select the character's attributes as normal, spending no
more than 50% of the character's purchase points on them and re­ One: Attributes. Generate the attributes for your charac­
serving the rest for character development. ter, using the game system of your choice (for games where points
must "spent" in order to acquire attributes and skills, see Central
Two. Roll up a Central Casting background, making special Casting & "Skill Buying').
note of any modifications to the character's attributes, or '11aws"
that may give the character additional purchase points. Two: Starting Notes. On a copy of the worksheet in the
back of this book, record the character's name, attributes, sex and
Three. Compare the details of the character history against anything else you or your game master have already decided
the game system's costs for skills, social standing, physical and about the character.
character benefits or flaws. Add and subtract points from the
remaining purchase points as indicated by the costs of the abilities Three: Game Genre. Read the Adventure in the 20th
or flaws gained from the Central Casting history. Century material on pages 17-18 and pick one genre that most
closely applies to your game system. Several table entries will
Four. If the character's expenditure of points exceeds his al­ send you to genre-specific game encounters, so its best you know
lowable purchase points, trim back the skill ranks of some skills to where to go. The information here helps you better customize the
lower, less costly levels. history to the game genre.
Five. If the character ends up with additional points to spend Four: Start Rolling. Grab your dice. If you haven't
(due to character flaws or unspent points), purchase skills that are chosen the character's national origins, begin at Table 101:
in keeping with the general flavor of the character's background. CharacterOriginson page 19. Chances are, however, that you've
Choose skills that logically complement any existing skills. already picked a race (if imporant to you) and national origin for the
character. Well then, go to Table 102: Culture and follow the
directions, and then on to Table 103 and so on in sequence until
you reach Table 312: Alignment & Attitude.
Table Instructions
Each table contains the instructions you need to use it: the kind
of dice to roll, where to record information on the worksheet, and
whatto do next. Instructions within the table may temporarily send
you to another table to resolve something. Leave a book mark
where you are at before going on to the requested table.
Big Black Bands
When you are done on a page, look at that big black band
across the page bottom. The message there tells you where to go
next. When it says "From here-Return to the Table that sent you
here ... "do just that, go back to the most recent bookmark you left
behind (I said you would need these!).
Tables 101 through 312follow each other in sequence. The
character will use most of these tables in their given sequence.
Record the information you get on these tables on the lines provid­
ed on the worksheet).
More Steps
Five: Match Skills. Match the character's Central Cast­
ing skills against the game system's skills and fill in the character
sheet (from the game) with any appropriate notes, skills and
attribute changes.
Six: Biography. Write the character's "biography." Read
Motivations on page 1 O for help in selecting the character's
reasons for living. Then read through Linking Events on page 13
to get helpful hints for turning your page of raw data into a unified
character history (like writing your own fantasy novel-sort of).
Don't forget to use A History of the 20th Century to anchor your
character into the "real" world by matching events in the charac­
tor'c lif,:, with AVAnts from historv.
Motivations 10 Motivation,

guys only. Many evil and misguided cults have more than their fai
Motivations: share of fanatical followers.
Greed. Unfortunately, this seems to be the basic adventure
Justifying a Character's Life motivation: "How much loot can we get (drool, slobber, drool)?"Tr;
to use it as a secondary motivation or at least come up with i
justification for loot gathering other than gaining experience points
Why does the character want or need the money? Maybe his sicl
Why wou Id anyone become a professional hero or even mother needs $200,000 for a vacation home in Aspen.
dabble in things adventurous? What would make someone seek
out hideously dangerous situations or brave the unknown? What In the Name of Science. The character seeks to advancE
makes characters do what they do? the frontiers of scientific, medical or parapsychological research­
In a courtroom situation, an attorney probes to discover why good for idealists and mad-scientist-types.
someone would allegedly commit a crime; an actress on stage Insight. This is the search for wisdom and it can be separ·
seeks to justify her movements in front of the footlights; and a ated from the search for knowledge. It almost always involves ar
teacher looks for a way to make a child want to learn. All three attempt by the character to improve himself through better under­
search after the same thing, a motivation, something that will pro­ standing of himself and others.
vide a reason for future actions or explain and justify past actions.
Every character, whether he is an NPC or a recently created Knowledge. To know more, to know the most, to know i1
player character has a reason for existing, something that serves ALL! This is the gain of knowledge purely for its own sake, regard·
as a focus for his life. Usually, it is not a single goal or desire, but less of its value or intended use.
something complex, involving several factors. Love. The character lives her life only to serve someone he
loves. She puts this person's welfare and happiness above her
Select Motivations own. This is particularly suited to characters who have an ongoing
romance. The GM may wish to kidnap the beloved as a hook for an
Each character should have more than one motivation. One adventure (hey, it worked about a zillion times for Edgar Rice
will always be a strong primary motivation, and the others secon­ Burroughs). Love is also the basis for parent/child relationships, in
dary, less important, but still providing direction. Use the list of which a sick or missing child could motivate a character unto
motivations that follows as a guide, but feel free to add your own. adventure.
Select one or more motivations for the character, then customize
them to better fit the character and her history. Pleasure. The character's goal is to provide pleasure for
Base the selection of the character's motivations on his past, himself, to have fun, to feel good. This can range from simply
his alignment, his attitude and his personality factors. Don't select having a full belly and warm place to sleep, to fulfilling base desires
motivations that conflict strongly with other aspects of the charac­ and living in luxury.
ter's background. Power! Some people have a need to have the world at their
Assign a strength to each motivation, particularly for NPCs. command. It is never a particularly commendable motivation, even
This represents the relative importance of the motivation to the when combined with serving humanity. Other things just seem to
character. Suggested strengths areTrivial, Weak, Average, Strong, get in the way of the lust for power .
Driving and Obsessive. A trivial motivation, would hardly worth the
trouble to resolve. Yet a character who is obsessed with the need Revenge. This is a perennial favorite. Someone did some­
to fulfill her motivation may stop at nothing to accomplish her goals, thing to the character or his family and now he's gonna pay them
and heaven help any who get in her way. Primary motivations back.
should have relatively high strengths and secondary motivations Survival. The goal is to stay alive. In some sense, this is
substantially weaker strengths. assumed by other motivations since staying alive is usually a ne­
Finally, in your own words, write a brief description of the cessary part of the goal. However, here it is in its pure form: the
character's motivations on the back of the worksheet to help you character is striving just to stay alive, probably against odds that
make decisions when roleplaying the character. would frighten lesser men and women.
Accomplishing Goals: What happens if and when a To be the best. This is common among athletes, who strive
character finally does what he set out to do? Does he set a new to be the strongest, the fastest, the most skilled. It also can be a
course for his life or is life as he knows it over? Think on these motivation for anyone who has a skill of any kind.
things as you play your characters. What gets them going again
once their goals are met (or do they just sit around and get fat)? To reach a goal. The character has a mission. She must
find something ordo something that matters to her. This motivation
is particularly sensitive to a ''what-do-I-do-now" situation once the
Character Motivations character actually accomplishes her goal.
What follows are common motivations for fictional characters. To Serve Humanity. Other people always need help and
You find them in both the best and the worst that genre fiction has the character realizes that his lot is to help them (this motivation is
to offer. easily combined with Faith). This could also be directed towards
animal rights, the environment, etc.
Discovery of the truth. This is finding the truth about Working out a past event. One of the events that hap­
something. The character has learned that something in his past pened to the character in his past left something unresolved. An
is not what he has been told. His goal is to find out the true story, adventure is needed to complete the situation. Example: The char­
even if the truth hurts. acter is kidnapped, disappears, and loses 1 O years of his life
Faith. The character's greatest desire is to serve God to the without a trace. His goal then becomes to discover who kidnapped
fullest possible extent. Every action will be weighted based on the him, and why was his memory been wiped clean?
teachings of the religion and the extent of her personal belief. This
is a great motivator for quests and crusades in the name of God.
Please note that characters motivated by Faith need not be good
NPCs: Creating Special Characters 11 NPCs: Creating Special Characters

NPCs:
45 to guide you in selecting an occupation for an NPC who may not
already have one.
0 Professional Competence. How good is the character
at his primary occupation? Decide whether or not your NPC
exceeds his peers or is a poor example of his profession. Remem­

Creating Special ber, most people who perform an occupation fall into the low
middle Rank values {Rank3-6). Use the guidelines found on page
4 regarding skill rankings to select an appropriate skill Ranking.

Characters 0 Culture & Technology. A typical NPC would be from the

most common level of technology and most common culture in the
game universe. Do you want the character's technology level or
Quite often, the GM or even a player will need to create culture different. Use Table 102: Culture & Technology to guide
a supporting character for his game. If you've rolled up one or more you in your selections {use dice if you want!).
player characters with Central Casting™ , then you know that a 0 Social Status. A typical NPC would blend into his surround­
good character takes time. Nevertheless, not every character en­ ings. In a bad part of the city, he might be Destitute or Poor. In a
countered during a game deserves an in-depth background and suburban community, he would be at a Comfortable or Well-to-Do
history description. Those should be reserved for player charac­ level. Decide whether or not the character would be a part of his
ters and major nonplayer characters {NPCs). surroundings. Use Table 103: Social Status to guide your selec­
This section is a set of suggestions for quickly creating NPC tions.
backgrounds, focusing on what we call "stock players" and "bit
parts," the kind of almost stereotype characters that one might ex­ 0 Appearance. A typical N PC would have a face or clothing
pect to find in many 20th century games, regardless of their genre. you could easily forget. Lose sight of him for an instant and he is
Remember, when creating quick characters: shorter is better lost in the crowd forever. A memorable NPC would have an
(not her height, but the length of her description). Define only as appearance that sets him apart from others. Use Table 861:
much as is needed to give a good picture of the NPC. One doesn't Appearancesto select unusual features forthe character. To make
need to know the full life story of the local hardware merchant, only him more unusual, select more appearance features.
that he has a glass eye, and tells stories of a ruined temple he saw 0 Personality. An unexciting NPC would have a bland de­
briefly while serving in the Peace Corps. meanor. His personality does little to color his way of speaking or
Instructions: These guidelines assume that you know acting. A memorable NPC would have at least one strong person­
what type of character you wish to create. Rather than describe ality feature that figures prominently in his words and deeds. Use
each detail of an NPC's life, focus on the things that are different Table 312A: Personality Trait Typesto randomly select a charac­
or outstanding, the features of his life or appearance that make him ter's most prominent personality trait, or select one (or more!)from
memorable. Each of the categories below outlines major aspects Table 641: Personality Traits. Remember the more traits you give
of the NPC that could be different from other NPCs. Follow the to a character {within reason of course), the more memorable he
steps below to create your NPC. will become. Try using the optional rules for Trait Strength found
on Table 312: Alignment & Attitude ( Table 312F: Trait Strength) to
One. Select an archetype (a basic statement of who or what further adjust the character's personality.
the character will be) from the list of Archetypes on the next page
or better yet, create your own archetype to fit a particular need or 0 Quirky Personality. In a typical NPC, even one with a
situation. strong personality, these oddities of behavior will stand out. An un­
Two. Use Table 1078: Noteworthy Items to select some usual character might have an equally unusual personality trait or
details about the NPC. two. If you want a character to be a bit quirky or be known as an
Three. Review the suggestions below under NPC Special "odd bird" or even a real weirdo, give him one or more traits from
Features to jog your imagination with ideas for customizing the Table 642: Exotic Personality Traits. Again, try using the optional
NPCs you create with this Central Casting book. rules for Trait Strength found on Table 312: Alignment & Attitude
Four. Roleplay your NPC to the Max! Make him memorable to (Table 312F: Trait Strength) to further adjust the personality.
the other players! 0 Values. Everyone assigns some kind of value to things in
their lives. What does the NPC consider to be important. Use
NPC Special Features Tables 3128, C & D: Personal Values to discover these.
0 Country of Origin. Most folk in a typical game world are 0 Alignment. Most folk fall into one of the Neutral alignments.
bound to be human. Yet for some, it might be important to know Choose an alignment if you think it might aid in roleplaying the
where they came from. Assume that 75%of all NPCs encountered NPC. Use Table 312E: Alignmentto help you make your choice.
will be native to the setting in which they are encountered. For that 0 Naming Names. How is the character called? It's possible
other 25%, use Table 101: Character Origins to select the back­ that you may never need to know more about a character than his
ground for the NPC. profession. You can call him the "bartender" or maybe he's just
0 Age. Typically, this character would be an adult, not old and known as "the grizzled old prespector," but many NPCs, particu­
nottoo young. How old is the character. Be creative. Not every star larly well-known ones, will be known by their names. Be creative
ship captain is a wizened veteran nor is every corporate secretary when giving NPCs names, but try to avoid giving them inap­
young {or beautiful). Use the suggestions on page 5 to adjust the propriate or "joke" names.
character's attributes for the effects of age. Consider giving older ' 0 Backg:-ound. Some characters are known by the things
characters better skill Rankings-about one additional Rank of that they have done or experienced. Use Table 107: Parents &
skill for each group of 1 O years by which the character's age NPCs to select additional items from the NPC's past. Use the
exceeds 20. instructions that you find with Table 1078: Noteworthy Items.
0 Occupation. What does the NPC do to put food {or what­
ever) on the table. Use Table 413A: Occupation Selection on page
NPCs: Creating Special Characters 12 NPCs: Creating Special Characters

GeneralTypesofNPCs 0 Grizzled Old Prospector. He's either made the "find"of

the century and needs protection or he's got a "sure-thing"map to
Some NPCs will fall into general classes that have nothing to a fortune and wants to sell it to someone he trusts. He's a real
do with their archetypes. An old prospector or a frontier lawman character with at least Rank 9 skill at spitting the "juice"from a plug
can be a good guy just as easily as he can a villain (though the of cheap tobacco.
lawman may not be quite so open about his evil ways). 0 Kid. She's young, she's energetic, maybe even talented.
Possibly, she hero-worships one of the PCs. Maybe she has an
0 Good Guys. These are NPCs that the player characters axe to grind against one of the PCs and issues a challenge. Then
should be able to trust. They do not have to be saints or nobly again, she could be a victim of some villain, and needs the PCs'
heroic, but they should stress their Lightside personality traits over help to gain her revenge.
Darkside or Neutral ones. 0 Mad Scientist's Daughter. She's always young, she's
0 Villains. These are the bad guys. They may appear to be always beautiful and she's always available. She believes her
allies at first, but their evil nature eventually shows through. They father can do no wrong and supports him ... until she realizes the
never have the PCs' best interest (or anyone else's for that matter) evil he has caused. For some reason, classic adventure fiction
at heart. They are typically followers of Darkside alignments, never deals with the mad scientist's other kids.
though characters who follow some of the more selfish Neutral 0 Mad Scientist. The problem with his harebrained inven­
alignments can easily be villains. Decide on the scope of their tions, is that they work. It's just that he's failed to look far enough
villainy. Are they small-time hoods or evil dark lords bent on ahead to see the problems they cause. If he's evil, his inventions
galactic domination. Also use Table 852: Vi/ains. are aimed at world or galactic conquest. Luckily, he's just crazy
The more powerful a villain, the greater will be his aspirations enough not to have covered every angle.
and evil goals(small-time hoods rarely dream of galactic conquest 0 Mercenary. This soldier-for-hire is rarely interested in
unless they have the power to obtain it). NPC Villains should gen­ much more than the bottom line. The job and the reason for it
erally have stronger Darkside traits than Lightside ones. doesn't matter, only the money is important.
0 Military Veteran. He's survived combat situations that
0 Leaders. These characters lead or rule over other men (or few othe� men or women could. Some of his parts may be missing,
beings). They might be military leaders, Nobles, religious, political but he's 1ust as good without them ... most of the time.
or business leaders. They might be either villains, good guys or 0 Miner. He tirelessly works his mine, whether it's deep in the
more likely be folks somewhere in the vast gray area in between mountains or on a whirling asteroid.
good and evil. To design a leader, you will need to know whom he Cl Obsessed Scholar. Like the Research Scientist, he pur­
leads and how great his area of influence (for the latter, see Table sues knowledge that will change the world.
7468:Sphereoflnfluenceon page 90for some guidance). Decide 0 Old Coot (Codger, Gramps, Granny etc.). This
whether his followers are especially loyal or disloyal. For the most crotchety old person could have been just about anyone or
part, give the leader better attributes or skills than his followers, un­ anything a zillion years ago.Whatever the truth, he or she sure has
less it would be reasonable for them to be lower(as in the case with a lot to !ell - a good s�urce for information about the "old days."
somehereditary leaders). Make leaders memorable. Decide wheth­ 0 Pnvate Investigator.Hard-edged and bitter, he knows
er or not the leader has some secret, a "skeleton in his closet" that the city and the major players and which rules he can bend without
he may wish kept a secret. If the leader is a Noble, select his title breaking 'em (or being broken in return).
(if you have not already done so) on Table 746: Nobles. 0 Punk. He's got a chip on his shoulder the size of Gibraltar.
Get in �is w�y and he'll: A) cut you up, B) gun you down, C) malign
NPC Archetypes your birth situation, D) all of the above.
0 Reporter. Always hot on the trail of the "big story."
Archetypes are the classic characters one finds in many 0 Research Scientist. She's always on the verge of a
adventure stories. They are the supporting cast in the PCs' quests breakthrough that will revolutionize the way we live or our under­
for adventure.While it would be impossible to list them all here, the standing of the universe. She is to pure science what the mad
types below are some suggestions in case you need to quickly scientist is to applied science-dangerous if she or her discoveries
stock that seedy dive or hotel lobby. fall into the wrong hands.
0 Bartender. He serves drinks, doesn't ask questions and 0 Seasoned Guide. He knows this country like the back of
rarely answers them in return. He's probably seen more of life than his hand. He's tough, he's competent and he doesn't like the idea
he cares to. of civilization creeping up on him.
0 Beat Cop. He's the law in his little corner of the city. More 0 Ship's captain. His ship is his pride, the best ship on the
often than not he enforces it equally - yet there are those few who seas ... or at least it would be if he had the money to get it out of dry
work for the wrong side. dock. Maybe the PCs are just the people he needs to get his ship
0 Bored Civil Servant. A master of the rubber stamp, this seaworthy again, for one last rendezvous with destiny.
government worker might be a stumbling block the PCs must 0 Smuggler. She knows the ins and outs of the official and
overcome or a vicarious thrill-seeker whose need for tales of unofficial shipping lanes. Whether it's international contraband or
adventure brings her in touch with the PCs. illegal refugees, she knows how to get goods from point "A"to point
0 Bounty Hunter. He doesn't earn his reward until the one "B" without running afoul of the law (most of the time).
he seeks is returned to the client with the credits. He's clever, 0 Street Person. Years on the streets have given this char­
talented and tough and probably has little mercy for those he hunts. acter a high survival quotient for the streets and years of cheap
0 Career Criminal. Crime is his life. He's never known b�oze and drugs have probably done irreparable damage to his
anything else. He definitely has experience from Table 526: Un­ mind-though a youngster may have sharper wits than most.
derworld Events in addition to any other character notes. 0 Vigilante. She's convinced that law enforcement officials
0 Clergyman. He may be devoted wholeheartedly to God, hav'e failed in their efforts to bring about order and justice. So now,
filled with missionary zeal, or he might be a disillusioned man she takes justice in her own hands. If you're not on her side­
searching for a truth he once believed in. you're part of the problem.
0 Explorer. His heart's desire is to make the big discovery, the 0 Weasely Informer. Shifty and nervous, he knows the
one that will put his name in the history books. Of course he usually hottest news on the street ... if you can trust him.
needs a bit of help to find his heart's desire.
 Linking Events 13

Linking Events:
Writing History ...
as it Should Have Happened!

Dice tables are wonderful tools for randomly generating

vast quantities of unrelated data. Thumb through this book and
you'll see what I mean. With a shake of the hand and a flick of the
wrist, dice tables can provide quick answers for any question or list
a dozen odd bits of background data. Dice tables are great if you
know how to use them for best effect. Nevertheless, even the best
of them are no substitute for a creative imagination.
Yet the great thing is: dice tables can stimulate your imagina­
tion. Even creative minds tend to slide into ruts. The random dice
rolls help establish links between ideas that you might otherwise
overlook. The dice don't do the thinking for you. Instead, they give
you things to think about.
Without putting the ol' imagination in gear, you can roll dice
forever on Central Casting's™ tables and still remain uninspired
asto how to roleplay your characters. The information is there, but
what you're missing is a way to put it all together, to make a handful
of loose and unrelated chunks of data into living, breathing,
exciting characters.
The end product of a Central Casting background session is
a sheet of raw history data, some in the form of rounded-out events
and much more as just notes about relatives and unrelated
occurrences. In many ways, it's like researching a paper. You can
spend a week at the library reading seemingly endless articles in that they either support the major events as either causes or
a dozen different encyclopedias and magazines and when you're results, or so that they provide the character with the internal
done, all you have to show for your effort is a tottering stack of contrasts of personality and interests that most real people have.
index cards and a three-inch-thick sheaf of notes. Regardless of
the topic, it's not until you start filling in the gaps between the notes Play Up Coincidences. Quite often, several table entries
with your own words and ideas that the paper takes on shape and will discuss or refer to remotely similar topics, like family, rivals or
form. In much the same way, Central Casting gives you a stack of friends, etc. These are sheer coincidences. Yet by emphasizing
raw data, the events and influences of a character's hypothetical and "fudging" them a bit to make them refer to the same thing or
life. Yet until you '1ill in the gaps" between those events and draw person, they tightly link parts of the character's history. Maybe the
logical (or even illogical} connections between them, your charac­ mysterious stranger who gave the character a gift at birth is the
terwill not take on true life. The bits and pieces of his history remain same person who later becomes his Patron or Companion. Possi­
just a pile of notes. bly an unknown mutation or power affected the outcome of later
events to make them occur as they did.
Writing the History Look for Causes and Effects. This goes back to playing
up coincidences. Did one event cause another? The loss of a
Write out the character's background as if you were telling his parent or friend might be the cause for the character taking up a life
life story. Focus on key events. Don't be concerned that your of crime. Possibly the scars that are the most notable feature of the
writing style isn't professional caliber. That's not important. This is character's appearance were a direct result of his occupation or
for your benefit, not the world's. Who knows though? If you write even one of his (former} hobbies. Establish cause and effect links
enough of these as practice, it may be your name headlining a between events wherever possible.
novel some day. Establish Thematic Relationships. Examine all the
It's possible to just write out simple sentences describing a events in the character's life and look for a thread of coincidence
character's past, but then you lose the opportunity to rewrite or a heavy weighting toward one type of event, such as military
history the way it should have happened. This is not to say that you events, tragedies, religious occurrences and so forth. Consider
should throw out or change all that lovely dice rolling, but you may letting these related events become the core of the character's
want to modify the results, so that they work together in the best experience. All other events would then somehow relate to this
way possible. general theme.
There are a several ways to maximize the relationship be­
tween the random dice selections. Try using some of the ideas and Integrate the Character into the World. Make the
suggestions that follow when creating your own characters. c!iaracter a part of the world. Ask the GM to help you fit the
character into his game world. Fix the time and place of the
character's birth inside the milieu of the GM's universe. Establish
Tricks & Hints the actual places that events occurred. What city orcountry was the
Focus on Important Events. One or more events character born in? Can the GM give you an actual name for that
should provide the framework for the character's background. All villain or government official who figures so strongly in the charac­
ter's past? Arrange the events of the character's life in chronologi-
I
other event should be of less importance. Adjust lesser events so
Linking Events 14 Adventure in the 20th Cent1

Adventure in the
cal order(that is, by the age at whichthey occurred)then relate key
events in the character's background to major or minor events in
the GM's world or universe (see A History of the 20th Centuryinthis
book for a very incomplete look at the last 130 years) . Adjust the
ages of event occurrences to better fit the universe's time line. 20th Century
Provide for Future Adventures. Look for ways to use
events to justify a player character's choice to become a hero or Game Genre Review & Selectio1
adventurer. What might have caused a character to go off looking
for trouble? Is there something that she is running from or a great Heroes NOW/was perhaps the most challenging book o1
secret to be discovered? Does the character have unpaid debts trilogy to write and design. Until now, each book has dealt wi
(maybe he needs to actually pay for all that schooling he had)? particular genre of escape literature, one that has generatec
Warning to GMs: It's OK to use personal character motivations as own successful genre of games. Here, we cover the "Third We
the reason for a single adventure or a side plot in a campaign. How­ of gaming: those games that while popular, are not in the s,
ever, be careful about using a character's personal motivations for league as fantasy or SF games. Nevertheless, they do have
adventuring as the main basis for campaign-length adventures. thing in common. They all take place within the confines of the�
Should the central character die (or his player move to Timbuktu) century (more or less so for some). Now that you know why t
the reason for your carefully laid-out campaign bites the big one. are the same, let's look at how they are different and how you,
Time and Events. Events that occur within a year or so of best fit Central Casting™ background into you game world.
each other should have some relationship. A later event might We've broken down contemporary roleplaying into five m.
occur because of an earlier event. themes. One or a combination of several may be the best ms
for your game system.
Provide a Nemesis. A nemesis is an enemy, a rival, a foe Superheroes: These are your basic superpowered heroe
or villain who can provide a challenge that the character must over­
come in later life. Not every character need have a nemesis to be spandex long-johns saving the world from villainous evil t�
interesting, though several table entries provide the character with games. They can be "brand name" or generic.
a rival or enemy ( Table 751: Rivals goes into details), but the char­ Horror: Unspeakable evil haunts the dark corners of the wo
acter's nemesis need not be a single living being or even a living feeds on its populace and drives them mad. Need we
being at all. Maybe the wilderness where he was born haunts him further (after all, there are indeed things that men were
or the foreign invaders who killed his parents can continue to meant to know!).
cause him grief, or his fear of computers prevents him from leading Espionage: Spies, ninjas, gangster, military and detect
a normal life. If it seems reasonable for the character to have a roleplay games all lump into this category.
nemesis, try to create it out of one of the character's background Pulp Hero: Relive those heroic days of yesteryear, the fictio
events. years of the '20s and '30s when every hero had a torn sh
bulging muscles and a dame at his side (sexist remark not1
Downplay Unimportant Events. Minimize or delete but used here for period color).
those events which do not add to the history or which detract from SF Now: This is the true catchall genre. It includes the
its exciting nature. Learning needlepoint as a hobby or surviving games that have a distinct "Science Fiction" feel to the
several unexciting promotions in the military may not be headline Aliens may walk the streets and heroes cross time and spaI
events in your character's life. Nevertheless, don't throw some­ but it all takes place within the confines of this century (and t
thing out just because you dislike it and would rather have heroes definitely came from hereabouts).
something that made your character a Nobleman or gave you 6
skill Ranks with a samurai sword. The first four have their own tables in this book. The last, wI
it's often justtoo weird to pigeonhole, what with characters jumpi
Eliminate Personal Conflicts. If Central Casting says across time and space.
your hero-to-be has developed a mental disorder or sexual perver­
sion, or has undergone an event that would make it personally diffi­ Instructions: Read these genre descriptions. Select
cult for you to roleplay that character, then discard or reroll the genre that most closely fits your game. A selection of suggest1
event. Remember, even though roleplay is supposed to give the games accompanies each genre. For games that are not qui
player insight into himself and others, the original intent of adven­ obvious, consult with your GM.
ture gaming is to be fun. If an event ill Central Castingwould com­ Record the genre on the character history worksheet. Son
promise your having fun, then it's an event that you can do without. event tables call for a separate roll on the table appropriate to ti
character's game genre. You will need to know this.
Integrate the Fantastic. Remember, most of these
characters are supposed to be larger-than-life heroes, not unher­ Superheroes
alded drudges living out boring little lives. Weave elements of the
fantastic into descriptions. Give even mundane events signifi­ The world of the superhero is a world of excitement. The lav
cance to both the character and the world of which he is a part. of physics are stretched to their breaking point, and it alwai
Make the commonplace unusual and the unusual really weird! seems that, no sooner does a city, country, or even the Eart
Supply Missing Elements. Central Casting provides a recover from one disaster when another one springs up. Coinc
framework to build the character upon. It is not a "smart" expert dences abound, and for every hero that debuts, it seems that tvi
system that automatically fills in missing details. You will need to supervillians pop up to foil him.
add the events or characters in your character's life that could, It's a world of superhuman powers, super gadgets, alien race:
improve the story, or further explain the relationship between sorcery, mental powers, spandex costumes, young damsels(an
events that you have rolled. This might mean adding a "bad guy" yes, young men too!) in distress, and villains who, despite
who has been dogging the character since the day he was born or thousand and one thrashings, will always come back for th
establishing your own reason for the character joining the military thousand and second thrashing.
as an airborne ranger. This goes right back to "filling in the gaps" As a rule, there is little death in the superhero realm. Moi
between events, the reason that Central Casting needs you! heroes work within the law (or at least not too far from its edges
and will not kill. Many villains,despite their bravado, fear retaliatio
Adventure in the 20th Century 15 Adventure in the 20th Century

by the superhero community at large, so they do not escalate Events.

matters to killing (or at least limit their killing to various non-super CJ Characters from this genre generally do not have seriously
victims such as rival villain's henchmen and such). As a rule, an weird backgrounds.
archenemy plagues a superhero for as long as the hero (or the CJ Character is not assumed to actually be an espionage agent,
villain) lives or is active. but rather a character who grows up exposed to such things.
Suggested Games: Marvel Super Heroes Game™ , DC He­
roes Roleplaying Game™ , Villains & Vigilantes, The Batman Pulp Heroes
Roleplaying Game™ , ChampionsTM, Heroes UnlimitecJfM , Teen­
age Mutant Ninja Turtles and Other Strangeness™ , Guardians, These are the two-fisted heroes of '20s and '30s "pulp" fiction,
GURPSJ!) Supers™ , SuperworlcJfM , and Enforcers™. - the stories that your parents and perhaps your grandparents
Features: weren't allowed to read (this was before comic books). They were
O Superhero specific events, use Table 522: Superhero Events. men and women whose exploits were heralded in fiction by writers
O Character is not assumed to actually be a super powered hero, like Edgar Rice Burroughs, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Rider Hag­
but rather a character who grows up exposed to a world populated gard, Maxwell Grant, and Kenneth Robeson; and depicted on
by powerful heroes. screen in recent movies involving Indiana Jones™ and the
O "Normal" characters might have mundane backgrounds. Fu­ Rocketeer™ and even Buckaroo Banzai (though he is out of his
ture heroes would have weird backgrounds. time period). They were inventors and athletes, scientists and
O If a character will have superpowers, make certain they are scholars, crimefighters and patriots. They foughtfor what was true
given an origin for those powers on Table 540: Secret Origins. and good and fair. In their day, evil was evil and good was good­
rarely was there any gray area to be found between.
Suggested Games: The Adventures of Indiana JonesrM Role­
Horror playing Game, Justice, Inc™ ., Gangbusters™ .
Any game that focuses on involvement with or investigation Features:
of the supernatural falls into this class. Other game genres often CJ For Pulp Hero specific events, use Table 525: Pulp Hero
include classic horror elements (take the AD&D® Ravenloft™ Events.
game set) and some Horror genre games lack a true horror feel­ CJ Character is not assumed to actually be a hero, but rather a
on purpose. Thus, Horror can be hilariously funny (as found in character who grows up exposed to such a world.
Ghostbusters™ ), moderately off-the-wall ( Stalking the Night Fan­ CJ This is a world populated by imaginative inventions. Device
tastic), or darkly frightening (Call of Cthulhu and Ghil®). Neverthe­ should have a "gee-whiz" exciting feel to them.
less, we lump them together. Of all the 20th century game systems, CJ A hero from this genre would likely have one or more of the
horror also covers the broadest time spans, from the late Victorian following skills in his background. Roll a d6.
years of the 1890s to the 1920s and on through the current period).
Suggested Games: Bureau 13: Stalking the Night Fantastic, 1 Inventor - has 1 d3 items from Table 854: Wondrous
Call of Cthulhu, Cthulhu NOW!, Ghil®, AD&D RavenlofFM game Devices.
world, Beyond the Supernatural, GURPSJ!) Horror, Vampire, 2 Athlete - has Rank 1 d4+2 skill in a professional sport
Nightlife, Ghostbusters™ , Ghostbusters™ International, and Dark 3 Scientist - could be just a hobby, but has Rank 1d4+2
Conspiracy™ . skill in a general applied science skill.
4 Detective - has 1d4+2 Ranks of skill related to detective
Features: work, the armchair variety.
O For Horror specific events, use Table 523: Horror Events.
5 Scholar - is an expert in a field of knowledge and has
0 Character is not assumed to actually be an occult investigator,
1d4+2 Ranks of skill at it.
but rather a character who grows up exposed to such a world.
□ Character has a 25% chance to have an additional feature from
6 Is a War Hero -Give the character a military background
beginning with Table 527: Military Events.
Table 642: Exotic Personality Features. 7-8 Roll twice more on this table, rerolling duplicates.
Espionage
This is a catchall section to accommodate those games
SFNOW
involving spies, military action, crime, gangsters, This is potentially This is the world of the future brought to bear upon the present.
the least "weird" of the game genres. Other than being involved in Often it involves time ordimensional travel or the influence of other
adventurous activity, characters from spy, mercenary, military and times worlds and planes of reality upon our own. Aliens or crea­
detective games will be normal beings. Most likely, they will not tures from other worlds might share the streets with regular folk­
have super powers, secret abilities, encounters with magic or in fact, they may BE regular folk. Characters from such an
horrors from beyond. Yet don't immediately discard such rolls. The environment may be more than a little weird by they time they
world is weird enough to accommodate a lot of strangeness. A become heroes.
weird event in a character's past might have an unexplained, but Also, this can cover any game system where regular folks are
mundane enough cause (the History of the 20th Centurycontains transported from their everyday lives here in the 20th century to
a number of documented weird events). participate in weird goings-on elsewhere in the world or in time.
Clear any weird events or abilities gained with your GM. Let her Such characters would tend to be more like those found in
be the final arbitrator here. Maybe you can convert them to a more Espionage genre games - more on the "normal" side.
mundane equivalent. Suggested Games: Teenagers from Outer Space™ , TORG™,
Suggested Games: Mercenaries, Spies & Private Eyes™ , hansdimensional Mutant Ninja Turtled!Y, Timelords™ , Dr. Who™
Gumshoe™ , Twilight 2000™ , Mere 2000™ , Top SecreffM , Top Roleplaying Game, Shadowrun™ .
Secret/S.I.™ , Gangbusters™ , James BoncJfM Roleplaying game, Features:
Ninjas and Superspies™ , and Recon™ .
CJ Characters from this genre might have an additional weird
Features: event in their past from Table 536: Exotic Events.
□ For Espionage specific events, use Table 524: Espionage
A History of the 20th Century 16 A History of the 20th Century

A History of the Prohibition of alcohol sale and use begins in the

U.S.A. Captain James and his aircraft disap­
pear over New York. French steamship Chaonia

20th Century lost in Straits of Messina along with 460 lives.

1920 Bolsheviks win the Russian civil war.
"Red Scare" causes arrests of 2,700 commu­
( ... and a few years before) nists, anarchists and radicals in U.S.A. First
licensed Radio broadcasts in U.S.A. American
The events given here are not intended as a full or representative history of the women obtain right to vote. Bomb explosion on
world. Instead, they focus on tragedies, disasters, wars, and a?tual doc�mented New York's Wall Street kills 30, injures 100.
weird events. The intent is to give the roleplayer and the GM points at which he or Earthquake in Kansu province, China kills
she can link a 20th century character to the "real" world. 100,000. Shafts of light project from the moon.
1921 Ku Klux Klan revival escalates at­
1861 Abraham Lincoln inaugurated as the Ying King founders off Singapore, 300 die. A
tacks upon blacks in U.S.A. Numerous ships
Pres. of the U.S. Eleven U.S. states secede to unexplained aerial blast in Tunguska, Siberia
disappear without a trace.
form the Confederate States of America. U.S. flattens every tree within 20 miles and burns
1922 Union violence causes death of 36
Civil War begins (until 1865) people as far away as 40 miles.
coal miners in Illinois mine strike. Rocks fall
1863 Slavery abolished in the U.S. Battle 1909 Henry Ford begins assembly-line pro­
from the sky onto Chico, CA.
of Gettysburg (U.S.). French Army occupies duction of the "Model T" automobile. Explorer
1923 Italy becomes a Fascist state. Gen­
Mexico City. Robert Peary reaches the North Pole. A mine
1866 Austro-Prussian War
eral Pancho Villa, ex-rebel leader killed in
disaster kills 259 coal miners in a Cherry, IL. A
Mexico. Three large mounds are found in the
1887 Flooding of the Huang He River in lighted airship is repeatedly seen across New
Archimedes crater on the moon. King Tut's
China claims 900,000 victims. England.
tomb is opened in Egypt.
1889 Johnstown Flood claims 2,200 lives. 1910 Japan annexes Korea. Union of South
1924 Aviators Day and Stewart disappear.
1891 Earthquakes level 20,000 buildings Africa formed. Fresh blood falls from sky in
Their footprints end abruptly 40 yards from their
and kill 25,000 people in Japan. South America. Swiss scientist, Gockel discov­
intact aircraft.
1895 Roentgen discovers X-rays. ers Cosmic Rays.
1925 John T. Scopes is found guilty of
1896 Klondike gold rush begins. Henry Ford 1911 Italy occupies Tripoli, Libya. Italy at
teaching evolution at a Dayton, TN, high school.
makes his first motor car. war with Turkey (to 1912). Revolution in Mex­
1926 Dr. Robert Goddard demonstrates
1898 Spanish-American War. Cuba gains ico, disorder follows. Explorer Roald Amund­
first successful liquid fuel rocket.
independence. Spain surrenders Puerto Rico, sen reaches the South Pole. Revolution in
1927 Charles Lindbergh crosses Atlantic
Guam and the Phillipines to the U.S.A. Flam­ China overthrows Manchu dynasty. Flooding of
mable "sulphur rain" falls in Mount Vernon, Ocean in first non-stop transatlantic flight. Black
the Chang Jiang River in China claims 100,000.
rain falls in Ireland.
Kentucky. Aspirin marketed commercially. 1912 The luxury liner Titanic sinks with a
1928 The Danish training ship, Koben­
1899 Boer War between British and Boers loss of 1513 lives. First Balkan War pits Bul­
hoven disappears without a trace.
in South Africa. Rutherford discovers alpha and garia, Greece, Serbia & Montenegro against
1929 "St. Valentines Day Massacre" of 7
beta rays. Turkey (to 1913). U.S. Marines sent to Nicara­
1900 Boxer Rebellion between National­ gangsters in Chicago. Stock Market crash her­
gua over debt dispute.
alds worst American depression.
ists and foreigners in China. Britain begins con­ 1913 Greece takes over isle of Crete. Sec­
1930 Rioting against the British in India.
quest of northern Nigeria. Carrie Nation, a ond Balkan war: Turkey, Serbia, Greece, and
Revolutions occur in Bolivia, Peru, Argentina
Kansas anti-saloon activist begins raiding with Romania unite against Bulgaria. Mexican Pres.
and Brazil. Judge J.F. Crater of the New York
her hatchet. Flooding in Galveston Texas claims Francisco I. Madero assassinated. Ambrose
Supreme Court disappears without a trace.
5,000 lives. Bierce, noted American writer, disappears in
1901 Russia occupies Manchuria (north­
Many die and 300 are stricken by a poisonous
Mexico. 263 coal miners are killed in a Dawson,
fog in Belgium.
eastern China). Commonwealth of Australia NM mine disaster. Langmuir invents the multi­
1931 Japan invades Manchuria. Revolu­
established. U.S. Pres. William McKinley as­ grid electron tube.
tions in Panama, Peru, Chile, Paraguay, and El
sassinated by an anarchist. 1914 World War I (to 1918). U.S. Declares
Salvador. Empire State building opens in New
1902 Boer War ends. Anglo-Japanese al­ its neutrality.
York City. Flooding of the Huang He River in
liance formed. British and German fleet seize 1915 34,000 British and Empire troops are
Venezuelan navy to force debt repayment. China claims 3,700,000 victims.
lost during the Gallipoli campaign. Of these
1932 Chaco War between Paraguay and
1903 Panama achieves independence 27,000 are never accounted for. British ocean
Bolivia. Manchurian war continues. Japan at­
from Columbia. Wright Brothers first successful liner Lusitania sunk by German submarine.
tacks Shanghai. Revolutions in Chile and Peru.
heavier-than-air flight occurs in Kittyhawk, North U.S. troops occupy Haiti. Bright spots appear
Uprisings in Belgian Congo. Franklin D. Roosev­
Carolina (U.S.A.). Fire in Chicago's Iroquois on the moon.
elt is elected Pres. of the United States. Blood­
Theater claims 602 lives. First fluorescent light 1916 U.S. Troops under General Pershing
less coup overthrows the monarchy in Siam.
developed. enter Mexico in pursuit of Pancho Villa. U.S.
1904 Russo-Japanese War. Tibet opened 1933 Japan defeats and takes control of
purchases Virgin Islands from Denmark.
1917 Russian Revolution begins. U.S. de­
Manchuria. Chaco War continues. Adolf Hitler
to western trade. A Brief and unexplainable
becomes chancellor of Germany. Germany and
darkness falls on Wimbledon, England. Broad­ clares war on Germany. Vision of the Virgin
Japan quit the League of Nations. Prohibition of
way subways opens in NYC. The steamship Mary appears to three children at Fatima, Por­
alcohol ends in U.S.A. Albert Einstein flees to
General Slocum catches fire near NYC, 1,000 tugal. The crew of the ship Zebrina disappears
are killed. the U.S.A. An orange ray projects upwards
during good weather in the English Channel.
1905 Japanese warship Mikasa sunk by
from the moon for 15 minutes.
Luminous objects seen moving on the moon. A
1934 Army suppresses uprising in Spain.
an explosion-599 are lost. An aborted revolu­ train wreck in Modane, France kills 543 people.
Chaco War continues. Soviet Union joins the
tion also rocks Russia. 1918 WWI ends. Revolution in Germany.
League of Nations. King Alexander of Yugosla­
1906 San Francisco earthquake and fire World-wide influenza epidemit kills as many as
via is assassinated in France. Adolf Hitler purges
leaves 503+dead. U.S. troops occupy Cuba(to 21 million worldwide, nearly 548,000 in the
the Brownshirts in the "Night of Long Knives."
1909). U.S.A. alone. Czar Nicholas II and his family are
Chinese Communists begin the Long March to
1907 Dominion of New Zealand founded. killed by Bolsheviks in Russia. Unusual weather
escape Nationalist forces.
361 coal miners are killed in a Monogah, WV in many parts of the world.
1935 Italy attacks Ethiopia. Malaria Epi­
mine disaster. 1919 League of Nations formed. Firsttrans­
demic ravages Ceylon. Revolutions in Greece
1908 Belgian Congo founded. Steamship atlantic flight. Influenza epidemic continues.
and Venezuela. Chaco War ends. Stalin purges
 A History of the 20th Century 17 A History of the 20th Century

military and civilian dissident groups in the 1953 U.S. finances France's war in Indo­ are made on the life of U.S. Pres. Gerald R.
Soviet Union. china. Dr. Jonas Salk creates the Polio vaccine. Ford. Ranchers in the western U.S. report find­
1936 Civil War breaks out in Spain. Italy 1954 Nautilus, the first atomic-powered ing dead livestock that had been subjected to
conquers Ethiopia. Rioting in Greece, Pales­ submarine, is launched at Groton, CT. U.S. weird mutilations-some evidence suggests
tine, Poland, and Zanzibar. Japanese attack declares Racial segregation unconstitutional. Satanic cults, others UFOs.
Mongolia. Germany occupies the French Rhine­ 1955 U.S. begins training of South Viet­ 1976 "Legionaires' Disease" kills 29 in
land. King Edward VIII abdicates the throne of namese army. Philadelphia, PA. U.S.A. celebrates the Bicen­
England to marry a commoner. Pres. Roosevelt 1956 First transatlantic telephone cable tennial of its independence.
is reelected. Coup attempts in Chile and Tokyo goes into operation. Paul Jaquays born to nor­ 1977 Capital punishment reinstated in
are crushed. Germany and Italy form the Axis. mal parents. some U.S. states.
A labor strike ties up all major ports in the U.S. 1957 Earthquakes in Iran claim 5,500 lives. 1978 John Paul II is elected as the first
1937 Sino-Japanese War begins. Spanish 1958 First U.S. satellite, Explorer I, is non-Italian Pope in 450 years. A bull is found
Civil War continues. Japan sinks a U.S. gun­ launched into earth orbit. U.S. Marines are sent mutilated in Dulce, NM after locals report see­
boat in the China sea. Golden Gate bridge is to Lebanon. A gelatinous mass falls to earth in ing glowing orange lights in the sky.
completed. The dirigible, the Hindenburg, ex­ the Irish county of Westmeath. 1979 A major accident occurs at Three
plodes and burns in New Jersey. Italy quits the 1959 The George Washington, the first Mile Island nuclear reactor, near Middletown,
League of Nations. Amelia Earhardt mysteri­ U.S. ballistic-missile submarine is launched. In­ PA. Followers of Iranian religious strongman,
ously disappears in the South Pacific. DuPont tegrated Circuits invented by Texas Instruments. the Ayatollah Khomeini capture the U.S. Em­
Labs invents Nylon. 1960 A United States U2 spy plane is shot bassy in Teheran, Iran and hold 90 hostages. A
1938 Riots in Tunis, Tunisia. Spanish Civil down over the Soviet Union. Flooding in Bang­ DC-10 crashes in Chicago, killing 275-the
War Continues. Germany occupies Austria and ladesh claims 10,000 lives. Digital Corporation highest death toll in U.S. aviation history. U.S.
Czechoslovakia. Orson Welles scares nation invents first mini-computer. Gov't-sponsored Rommel Report regarding
with radio dramatization of H.G. Wells novel 1961 Commander Alan B. Shepard Jr. is cattle mutilations refutes all theories that do not
War of the Worlds. makes first U.S. suborbital space flight. CIA involve natural predation and scavengers.
1939 Germany invades Poland-World sponsored Cuban exiles are repulsed in the 1980 U.S.A. does not attend 1980 summer
War II begins. The Soviet Union invades Fin­ Bay of Pigs invasion of Cuba. Olympics in the Soviet Union for political rea­
land. Spanish Civil War ends. Italy occupies 1962 Lt. Col. John H. Glenn Jr. becomes sons. Mt. St. Helens volcano erupts, leaving 60
Albania. Regular transatlantic commercial air the first American in Orbit. Soviet Missile Crisis dead in the state of Washington.
service begins. takes place in Cuba. 1981 The space shuttle Columbia makes
1940 Italy invades Greece. Riots in Rho­ 1963 U.S. Supreme Court accelerates its first successful voyage. Egyptian Pres. Anwar
desia. Allies invade Italian East Africa. Ger­ moral decay of America by declaring unconsti­ El-Sadat killed by rebel commandos. Attempts
many invades Denmark, Norway, and France. tutional the reading of the Lord's Prayer and are made on the lives of U.S. Pres. Ronald
The Soviet Union occupies Estonia, Lithuania, Bible verses in public schools. U.S. Pres. John Reagan and Pope John Paul II.
and Latvia. Radar research begins in the U.S.A. F. Kennedy assassinated. U.S. fully involved in 1982 Argentina invades the Falkland ls­
1941 Germany Invades Russia. Pearl Har­ Indochina war (to 1973). lands (a British dependency). British forces
bor, Hawaii is attacked by Japanese, U.S. en­ 1964 Quake in Alaska claims 131 lives. reclaim the island. An explosion in the Salang
ters into WWII. 1965 Riots by blacks in the Watts neigh­ Tunnel in Afghanistan kills 1,000 to 3,000 people.
1942 Battle of El Alamein in Egypt. Japan borhood of Los Angeles, U.S.A. cause 34 1983 241 American military men are killed
captures islands in the Pacific. U.S. forcibly deaths. Power failure blacks out much of the by a suicidal terrorist bomber in Beirut, Leba­
moves and detains 110,000 Japanese-Ameri­ American and Canadian northeast. non. U.S. Marines and Rangers invade the Car­
cans living on the west coast. A fire at the 1966 U.S. Warplanes bomb Hanoi area of ibbean island nation of Grenada. A Soviet plane
Cocoanut Grove in Boston, MA takes 491 lives. North Vietnam. shoots down a Korean airliner, killing 269.
1943 Race riot in Detroit, Michigan leaves 1967 Black riots in Newark, New Jersey 1984 India Prime Minister Indira Ghandi
34 dead, 700 injured. Similar riot occurs in leave 26 dead. Bigger riots in Detroit, Michigan killed by two of her Sikh bodyguards. An explo­
Harlem, NYC. U.S. Troops invade Italy. leave 40 dead, 2,000 injured and 5,000 home­ sion at a gas storage area near Mexico City,
1944 D-Day: U.S. and Allied Forces in­ less-military forces are required to put down Mexico kills 334 people.
vade France at Normandy. U.S. troops land on the rioting. First human heart transplant per­ 1985 Mikhail Gorbachov becomes Soviet
Leyte in the Phillipines. A fire at a circus in formed by Dr. Christian Barnard in South Africa. leader. In a Japan, a Boeing 747 airliner crashes
Hartford, CT takes 168 lives, mostly women 1968 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and U.S. into the side of a mountain killing 520-the
and children. senator Robert F. Kennedy are assassinated in worst single air disaster in history.
1945 U.S. Pres. Roosevelt dies of brain separate incidents by gunmen. Capital punish­ 1986 The space shuttle Challenger ex­
hemorrhage. Germany surrenders. Atomic ment ends in U.S.A. plodes on lift-off, killing its crew of 7. A serious
bombs dropped on cities of Hiroshima and 1969 American astronauts Neil Arm strong accident at the Chernobyl nuclear plant in the
Nagasaki in Japan. Japan surrenders, ending and 'Buzz' Aldrin are first men on the moon. Soviet Union spews radiation across Europe.
WWII. Tupper invents ... Tupperware. 1970 IBM invents the floppy disk. 1987 An Iraqi warplane attacks U.S.S. Stark
1946 Phillipines given independence. 1971 East Pakistan becomes Bangladesh. with a missile, killing 37 sailors. Earthquakes in
1947 An explosion at a pier in Texas City, 1972 October War: Arab states attack Is- NE Ecuador claim 4,000 lives.
Texas kills 561. rael. Nolan Bushnell invents "Pong"video game. 1988 A terrorist bomb brings down a Pan
1948 Mohandas K. Ghandi assassinated 1973 U.S.A. withdraws troops from Viet­ Am Boeing 747 over Lockerbie, Scotland, kill­
in New Delhi, India. USSR blockades German nam. U.S.A. rocked by Watergate conspiracy. ing 270. Earthquakes in NW Soviet Armenia
city of Berlin. U.S. Vice Pres. Spiro Agnew resigns over tax claim 55,000 lives.
1949 U.S. Troops are withdrawn from Ko­ evasion and bribery charges. Arab oil-produc­ 1989 Massive earthquake strikes San
rea. NATO alliance is formed. ing states impose oil embargo on allies of Israel. Francisco area, killing 59. U.S. Armed Forces
1950 U.S. becomes involved in Korean 1974 Greece and Turkey come to conflict invade Panama, overthrowing the government
conflict. 35 U.S. military advisors sent to Viet­ in Cyprus. U.S. Pres. Richard Nixon resigns of Manuel Noreiga.
nam. A glowing, purple, gelatinous blob falls to over the Watergate incident arid is later uncon­ 1990 East and West German reunite un­
earth in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. ditionally pardoned by his appointed succes­ der a democratic government. Iraq occupies
1951 First transcontinental U.S. television sor, Gerald Ford. neighboring Kuwait, instigating a build up of
broadcast. Crick, Watson & Wilkins discover 1975 South Vietnam surrenders to North multi-national coalition forces in Saudi Arabia.
the structure of DNA. Vietnam, ending the Vietnam War. Spanish Earthquakes in NW Iran claim 40,000 lives.
1952 The first hydrogen bomb is exploded dictator, Francisco Franco dies. Dungeons & 1991 Coalition forces attack Iraqi military
in the Pacific. Dragons:E> is published by TSR. Two attempts positions in Iraq and Kuwait. Iraq is defeated.
101: Character Origins 18 101: Character Origins

101:
d20 101A: Country of Origin(Roll a d20)
I Africa. In the late 19th century, European nations conquered
Africa. The European languages spoken by some countries give a
good idea of who smashed and grabbed what. Over the course of this
century, Africa has changed from a few large European colonies and

Character
possessions to a myriad of smaller self-ruled nations, many gain!ng
their full independence in the early 1960's. Roll a d4 to select a region
of Africa.

Origins
I Western Africa. Much of the western continent was under
French domination until the 1960's. Roll a d12 on the subtable
below to select a West African country.
I Benin & Togo (French, local dialects) Roll Hi/Lo. TM: 1
2 Burkino Faso (French, tribal languages) TM:1
Unlike fantasy and science fiction games, with their myriad 3 Cameroon (English, French, tribal languages) TM: 1
exotic worlds, 20th century games are based in the known world 4 Cote D'Ivoire (French, tribal languages) TM: 1
of the 20th century. Characters from 20th century games often s Ghana (English, tribal languages) TM: 1
work best if they can grow up from roots that have been firmly 6 Guinea (French, tribal languages) TM: 1
planted somewhere definable-a place he or she can call home. 7 Liberia (English, tribal dialects). TM: 1
8 Mali (French, Bambara). TM: 1
Getting Started: Chances are, you have some strong 9 Mauritania (French, Hasanya Arabic) TM: 1
preferences regarding the selection of your character's national IO Nigeria (English, Hausa, Yoruba, Ibo) TM: 1
and ethnic background. Then again, maybe you don't. 11 Senegal (French, tribal languages) TM: 1
If so find the country that matches below and record its 12 Sierra Leone (English, tribal languages) TM: 1
TekMod(TM) on your worksheet and skip ahead to Table 102:
2 Eastern Africa. Roll a d6 on the subtable below to select an
Culture. If not, then this table can provide that answer. East African country.
Instructions: If you have not preselected a national or I Ethiopia (Amhara, Tigre, Hamatic, Arabic) TM: 2
racial background for the character, roll a d20 to select the char­ 2 Kenya (Swahili, English) TM: 2
3 Madagascar (Malagasy, French) TM: 1
acter's country of origin on Table 101A. Please note that the table 4 Mauritius (English, French, Creole) TM: 1
is weighted towards characters of North American and European 5 Somalia (Somali, Arabic) TM: 1
ancestry and reflects more the population of the United States of 6 Tanzania (Swahili, English) TM: 1
America rather than the world at large. Countries are listed by their
current incarnations, though many, particularly in Africa, South 3 Central Africa. Roll a dB on the subtable below to select a Cen-
tral African country.
America and Asia have changed names in the past 30 years.
Next, go on to table 101B: Ancestry Details to select additional I Burundi (French, Rundi) TM: 1
2 Central African Republic (French) TM: 1
information regarding the character's origins. 3 Chad (French, Arabic, tribal languages) TM: 1
Languages: Each country lists its official.and oth�r prima,:y 4 Congo (French, Bantu dialects) TM: 1
languages in parentheses. A character who 1s a native of this 5 Niger (French, Hausa, Djerma) TM: 1
country or descended fromrecent immigrant parents from this 6 Rwanda (French, Kinyarwanda) TM: 1
7 Uganda (English, Luganda, Swahili) TM: 1
country will probably know these languages. 8 Zaire (French, Bantu dialects) TM: 1
Technology Modifiers: Country of �rigin �ff�cts the 4 Southern Africa. Roll a d10 on the subtable below to select
Technological level that a character has been raised w1th1n. Each a South African Country.
country lists its Technology Modifier, TekModor"TM." Record the I Angola (Portuguese, Bantu dialects) TM: 1
TekMod on the character history worksheet. 3 Botswana (English, Setswana) TM: 1
Roleplay: Regardless of a character's current home, the 4 Malawi (English, Chichewa) TM: 1
5 Mozambique (Portuguese, Bantu dialects) TM: 1
land from whence her ancestors came affects her place in society, 6 Namibia (Afrikaans, English, tribal dialects) TM: 1
her traditions, her religion, her likes and dislikes, her native cultural 7 South Africa (Afrikaans, English, Bantu) TM: 2
affectations, her known languages, possibly her speaking accent, 8 Swaziland (Swazi, English) TM: 1
and her attitudes about others. To best play an unfamiliar charac­ 9 Zambia (English, Bantu dialects) TM: 1
ter, do a little library research. You·n discover fun facts and surprise IO Zimbabwe (Rhodesia) TM: 2
your friends with the things you know as you play your character. 2 Caribbean Islands (English, Spanish, French, Danish). TM: 1
Additional Reference: For more information, check out 3-4 Canada (English, French-Quebec)TM: 3
a good world almanac or encyclopedia. World histories will be
particularly useful for games based in the early part of the century. 5 Central American Nations. Roll a d8 on the subtable below.

=�
I Belize (English, Spanish) TM: 2

101A: Country of Origin

2 Costa Rica (Spanish). TM: 1 Don't I b,,
3 El Salvador (Spanish). TM: 2
4 Guatemala (Spanish). TM: 1
Forget==
This table covers a period of time in which the borders, names 5 Honduras (Spanish). TM: 2 101B! w I F
and even existence of many countries have changed over the 6 Mexico (Spanish). TM: 2
course of the century, and will most likely continue to change. If a 7 Nicaragua (Spanish, English). TM: 2
\
country named here did not exist in your game period, do some 8 Panama (Spanish, English) TM: 2
research and use the country, colony or territory that preceded it.
On the other hand, you could always reroll. Continued ... �

H II
101: Character Origins 19 101: Character Origins

d20 101A: Country of Origin(Roll a d20) d20 101A: Country of Origin(Roll a d20)
6 China, People's Republic of (Mandarin Chinese, many re- 13 Ecuador (Spanish, Quechua, Jivaroan). TM: 2
gional dialects). TM: 2 14 Paraguay (Spanish). TM: 2
15-16 Peru (Spanish). TM: 2
7-8 Eastern Europe. Roll a d8 on the subtable below. 17 Suriname (Dutch). TM: 2
1 Bulgaria (Bulgarian, Turkish, Greek). TM: 2 18 Uruguay (Spanish). TM: 2
2 Czechoslovakia (Czech, Slovak). TM: 2 19-20 Venezuela (Portuguese). TM: 2
3 Finland (Finnish, Swedish). TM: 3
4 Hungary (Hungarian). TM: 2 14 South Pacific. Roll a d6 on the subtable below
5 Poland (Polish). TM: 2 1 Australia (English, Aboriginal languages). TM: 3
6 Romania (Romanian). TM: 2 2 Indonesia (Malay-Indonesian, Javanese). TM: 2
7 Soviet Union. TM: 2 3 Malaysia (Malay-Indonesian). TM: 2
8 Yugoslavia (Serbo-Croatian). TM: 2 4 New Zealand (English, Maori). TM: 2
5 Papua New Guinea. (English, Melanesian Pidgin) TM: 2
9 Mediterranean Nations. Roll a d4 on the subtable below.
6 A small Polynesian island nation (English, French, Tribal
1 Greece (Greek). TM: 2 languages). TM: 1
2 Italy (Italian). TM: 2
3 Turkey (Turkish). TM: 2 15-18 United States of America (English). TM: 3
4 Albania (Albanian, Greek). TM: 2 19-20 Western Europe. Roll a d10 on the subtable below.
10 Mideast & other Arab lands. Roll a d12 on the subtable below. 1 Austria (German). TM: 3
1 Algeria (Arabic, Berber, French). TM: 2 2 Belgium, Kingdom of (Flemish-Dutch, French). TM: 3
2 Arabia (includes all countries/tribal groups on Arabian 3 France (French). TM: 3
peninsula) (Arabic). TM: 2 4 Germany (German) TM: 3
3 Egypt (Arabic, English). TM: 2 5 Great Britain (includes countries, territories and colonies ex-
4 Iraq (Arabic). TM: 2 isting in this region). TM: 3
5 Jordan (Arabic). TM: 2 6 Ireland (English, Gaelic). TM: 3
6 Lebanon (Arabic, French, Armenian). TM: 2 7 Netherlands (Dutch). TM: 3 Don't
7 Libya (Arabic). TM: 2 8 Portugal (Portuguese). TM: 3 Forget
8 Morocco (Arabic). TM: 2 9 Spain (Spanish). TM: 3 101B!
9 Palestine/Israel (Hebrew, Arabic). TM: 3 10 Switzerland (German, French). TM: 3
10 Sudan (Arabic). TM: 1
11 Syria (Arabic). TM: 2
12 Tunisia (Arabic). TM: 2 Table 101B:Ancestry Details
11 Scandinavia. Roll a d4 on the subtable below.
Even within a character's country of origin, there will be some
1 Norway (Norwegian). TM: 3 other factors that further affect the character's ethnic background.
2 Sweden (Swedish). TM: 3
3 Denmark, Kingdom of (Danish). TM: 3
4 Iceland (Icelandic). TM: 3 d20 101B: Ancestry Details (Roll a d20)
12 Southern/Eastern Asia. Includes countries, territories and
colonies existing in this region prior to a country's national freedom. 1-8 The character's ancestry and current nation of resi­
Roll a d20 on the subtable below. dence are the same. While the character's ancestors may have
1 Afghanistan (Pushtu, Dari Persian). TM: 1
come from another land, he has no strong emotional, physical
2 Bangladesh (a.k.a. East Pakistan). TM: 1 or cultural ties to another country.
3 Cambodia (Khmer, French). TM: 1 9-10 The character's recent ancestry and current nation of
4 Hong Kong (Chinese). TM: 3 residence are the same, however, the character has strong eth­
5-6 India (Hindi-Hindustani, English). TM: 2 nic ties to, and takes great pride in his or her ancestor's country
7 Iran (Farsi-Persian, Arabic, English, French). TM: 2 of origin. Reroll country of parents origin again on Table 1018:
8-9 Japan (Japanese). TM: 3 Country of Origin for ancestors' homeland.
10 Korea (Korean) TM: 2
11 Laos (Lao, French). TM: 1 11-14 The character is a member of a racial minority within
12 Mongolia (Mongolian). TM: 2 the area of ancestry.
13 Myanmar (Burmese) a.k.a. Burma until 1989. TM: 1 15 Character is a member of a repressed people. Subtract
14 Nepal (Nepali). TM: 2 1 point from character's TekMod.
15 Pakistan (Urdu-Hindustani, Pushtu). TM: 2
16 Philippines (Pilini, English). TM: 2 16 Character is a member of a indigenous native people,
17 Sri Lanka (a.k.a. Ceylon) (Sinha! & Tamil). TM: 2 now a racial minority (Example: American Indians).
18 Taiwan (Chinese). TM: 3 17 The character is the child of immigrants to this land.
19 Thailand (Thai) a.k.a. Siam (Thai). TM: 1 Reroll country of parents origin again on Table 1018: Country
20 Vietnam (Vietnamese, English, French). TM: 1 of Origin for the homeland.
13 South American nations. Includes countries, territories and 18 The character was born in a foreign land and moved to
colonies existing in this region prior to a country's national freedom. this land while young. Reroll country of parents origin again on
Roll a d20 on the subtable below. Table 1018: Country of Origin.
1-3 Argentina (Spanish). TM: 2 19 The character was born in a foreign land and moved to
4 Bolivia (Spanish, Quechua, Aymara). TM: 2
5-9 Brazil (Portuguese, English). TM: 2
this land upon reaching adulthood. Reroll country of parents ori­
10 Chile (Spanish). TM: 2 gin again on Table 1018: Country of Origin for the homeland.
11 -12 Columbia (Spanish). TM: 2 Continued•·· � 20 Reroll twice more on this table, combining the results.

II From Here - Continue on to Table 102: Culture & Technology ...

11
102: Culture & Technology 20 102: Culture & Technology

102:
Culture &
Technology
Overthe relatively brief span of the 20th century, the world following the Literacy skill under the SKILLS section of the work­
has seen some of the greatest back-to-back leaps in technologi­ sheet. Be prepared to change this value.
cal advancement in human record. The world at large has gone Roleplay: Remember, not every culture within a given future
from relying on horses for transportation to contemplating perma­ history will be operating at the same level of technology. Generally
nent homes in space. Primitive tribes have been thrust unprepared speaking, a character who is exposed to the achievements of the
into the mainstream of "civilized" life. Near-instantaneous commu­ Tech Level one level above him may understand what he sees, but
nication has brought the events of our world into our living rooms. go up two Tech Levels, and the technology seems like "magic."
Yet despite these advances, there is no cultural or technologi­
cal homogeneity in the world. Countries both large and small may
have people living at a broad variety of cultural and technological
levels. The tables that follow can help a character hone in on his d100102A: Tech Level(roll a dl00 + Year*)
cultural identity. * For any year prior to 1900, subtract 20 from the die result. For
each year after 1999, add 1 to the die roll).
-19 - -10 TM+: Subtract 2
102A: Tech Level
-9 - o TM+: Subtract 1
Tech Level, or Technology Level, acts as a rough measure of 01-30 TM+:0
a society's technical achievements: the inventions, weapons,
modes of transportation and means of communication in common 31-50 TM+: 1
use. It does not deal with their social enlightenment, forms of gov­ 51-65 TM+:2
ernment or ethical values-that's Culture, and we deal with itlater. 66-80 TM+:3
It also does not mean that the people of that society possess
81-130 TM+:4
exactly the type of culture used to represent the level. Example:
Farmers in a developing nation may possess technical skills 131-135 Reroll, but do not add the year.
equivalent to a post-medieval world, but their culture is unique to 136-198 TM+:5
themselves. In many cases, the Tech Level represents an averag­ 199-210 TM+:6
ing of a society's native development with the technological
incursions of other, more technologically advanced societies. 211+ TM+:7
Instructions: Begin with Table 102A: Tech Level. Roll a
d100 and add the current year of the 20th Century (i.e., for 1922,
add 22; for 1991, add 91). Match the result against the table and Tech Levels
take the resulting TM+ value and add it the character's Tech Level
Modifier (TekMod) on the character worksheet (there should
1 Stone Age [Lit: 5%. Education Points: 4.). Fire has
found its way into most homes, sharpened sticks and stones form
already be a value there from the character's Country of Origin). the warrior's basic armament, the lever is the most complex
This modifier value will be used later in the book. Then, look at the machine, domesticated animals provide food and companionship
Technology Levels and match the character's total TekModagainst and building villages is coming into vogue. This covers everything
the numbers in front of each Tech Level description. The one that from the classic cave man up to pre-Columbian American Indians.
matches is the approximate level of Technology in which the
character was raised. Write the character's Tech Level on line 2 Bronze Age [Lit: 20%. Education Points: 6). Metal
102A of the worksheet. After completing this table, continue working, walled cities, stone monuments, sailing ships, the wheel,
onward to Table 1028: Culture. and simple writing are the rage. Well-to-do warriors wear metal
armor and wage war with spears, swords, bow and arrows. Ancient
Education Points: As a character grows up, he usually Greece and Egypt, the Celts of Europe and the peoples of the
receives a formal education (see Table 210: Education). Technol­ Biblical Middle East are examples.
ogy level provides the base value for the number of points the
character may spend once he reaches that Table. Higher Tech 3 IronAge[Lit:30%. Education Polnts:8].Achievements
levels provide more points than lower level. Record this on the include iron working (a harder metal than bronze), the keystone
Worksheet on the line labeled "Education Points." arch, and the use of concrete in building to encourage quick
development of large cities. Common soldiers wear metal armor
Literacy: The number in brackets after each Tech Level is and huge stone-hurling, wall-bashing mechanical siege machines
the base chance for a character to be literate in his native tongue take some of the guesswork out of flattening enemy fortresses.
(see Literacy rules on page 8). Record this chance in the space Imperial Rome is the "classic" example of this Tech Level.

II Table 102 continues on the next page ...

11
 102: Culture & Technology 21 102: Culture & Technology

4 Medieval Age[Lit: 10%. Education Points: 4). Steel

102B: Culture (Roll a dlOO+TekMod)
(a harder metal than iron) weapons and armor are used by the well­
to-do warriors. Crossbows make even poorly trained troops into d100 Level CuMod Survival Education
deadly foes. This is a period noted for retrogression, even degen­ Skills Points
eration and loss of technical and social gains made in earlier ages.
Medieval Europe and Feudal Japan typify this Tech Level. 01-05 Degenerate 0 6 Ranks 1d4 points
5 Renaissance[Lit: 35%. Education Points: 1OJ. Learn­ 06-12
13-15
Primitive 0
Retrogressive 2
7 Ranks
6 Ranks
1d4 points
1d4points
ing is rediscovered with a vengeance. Gunpowder makes major
changes in the waging of war, movable type printing speeds the 16-20 Nomadic 6 7 Ranks 2d4 points
spread of information. Equivalentto 1350-1800 in western Europe. 21-30 Barbaric 2 6 Ranks 1d4points
6 Industrial Revolution[Lit: 40%. Education Points: 31-60 Developing 6 6 Ranks 3d4 points
10.]. Steam engines drive boats and land transportation, while 61-101 Dynamic 10 7 Ranks 4d4points
steam-powered machinery replaces hand-manufacturing, allow­ 102-105 Stagnant 4 4 Ranks 1d6 points
ing mass production of goods. Cures are found for some diseases. 106-110 Decadent 8 5 Ranks 2d6points
Electricrty is utilized to a limited extent for communication and
illumination. Typified by Europe and the U.S.A. of the 1800's, rural
America and "advanced" Third World Nations of the early half of ture is a Culture Modifier Number ( CuMod). Record this number on
the 20th century. line 1028 of the Die Rolls Modifier box in the upper right corner of
7 EngineeringAge[Lit: 60%. Education Points: 12). the history worksheet. This modifier value will be used later in the
book to modify other dice rolls. Write the culture level on line 102B.
Internal combustion engines or electricity power most forms of
Read the instructions for Level, Survival Skills and Education
I transportation, including personal cars, war machines, and fixed­
wing air craft. Radio, television, suborbital rockets and small Points below, along wrth culture description, record any important
information, then continue on to Table 103: Social Status.

r
automatic weapons are developing. This is typified by Western
nations of the late 19th century through pre-WWII 20th century, Level: This is the general classification for the culture in
just before atomic escalation, most non-Western nation urban which the character is born. Each culture has rts own gameplay
areas in the late 19th century, and rural areas of Western nations. benefits and roleplay suggestions. The player or GM may wish to
8 TechnologicAge[Llt:80%. Education Polnts:16).
Nuclear power is used to create both electricity and deadly wea­
match these culture descriptions with ones in his own game world.
Survival Skills: These are the skills a character needs to
pons. Orbital spacecraft visit nearby satellites and unmanned survive in one of the three basic environment classes: Wilderness,
probes explore planets in the solar system. Industrial lasers, small Rural and Urban (see page 8 for more details). The Survival Skills
computers, and organ transplants are commonplace. In the real column on Table 1028: Culture, gives the number of skill Ranks
world of the 20th century, this represents the current and highest that the character may divide between the three environment
level of technology. It is found primarily in the urban areas of West­ classes. At least half of these Ranks should be applied to the char­
ern nations and in a few elite cities elsewhere around the world. acter's primary environment (probably where he grows up}. The
9 Fusion Age[Lit: 90%. Education Points: 20). Energy
is created through the combining, not destruction of matter. Laser
remainder can be divided between the other two environment
classes. Feel free to shift these numbers around as the character
develops further.
weapons replace projectile weapons in most armies. "Manned"
exploration of the solar system, establishment of orbital space Education Points: Culture also affects education. The
cities and scientific colonies exist on other planets within system. points gained from this dice roll are added to the base education
"Cold sleep" is used for long interplanetary trips. Most manufactur­ points provided by Tech Level and recorded in space 102 on the
ing is completely automated. history worksheet.
10 Spacefaring Age [Lit: 95%. Education Points: 20).
Unself-aware artificial intelligence is now found in some large
Roleplay: Roleplaying a character from one culture within
the confines of another culture may initially seem difficult. Yet it be­
computers. Most planets and major satellites in the solar system comes much easier if you look for simple guidelines. Just imagine
contain autonomous colonies or independent "nations." Sublight what it would be like for you to be placed in a totally new environ­
"manned" exploration of nearbye stars begins. ment where nothing was familiar, neither customs, language nor
day-to-day chores.
All but the mosttrusting people are naturally suspicious of any­
102B: Culture one from another culture - it's an extension of fear of the un­
known. This can be expressed as cautious curiosity, fearful hatred
Culture is the way in which a society of beings collectively live and persecution (that which we do not understand is evil and there­
their lives, including their common values and outlook on life. It is fore must be destroyed) or even fearful awe and wonder (Primi­
not necessarily the outlook of a single member of that society, but tives treating beings of higher Tech Levels like gods is cliche).
it will at best color or modify his perceptions, attitudes, prejudices Another cliche is for characters from one culture to look down
and actions. It is a significant factor in later background checks. It on folk from another (or the "You are different, therefore inferior"
is worth noting that on the whole, most nations during the 20th attitude). Though useful in playing some NPCs, this kind of pre­
century fall into the Developing or Dynamic culture status, with judice is as counterproductive in gaming as it is in "real" life and
more than a few who fit the concept of "Barbaric." player characters should try to avoid it.
Instructions: Roll a d100, add the character's TekModand
match the result against Table 1028: Culture. Following each cul-

11 Table 102 continues on the·next page ...

II
102: Culture & Technology 22

Primitive Cultures
Primitives do not read and write their own language and do not
fo�m. �igni�icant permanent settlements. The chief industry of
PrimItIves Is the procurement offood, usually by hunting (tradition­
ally a male role) and gathering (traditionally the task of women
children and the elderly). They do not work metal and organized
farming is still rare. Still, many many Primitives may possess and
even worship items from higher Tech Levels. Political units are the
family and the clan. Rulers are the most powerful warrior/hunters
of the group. The elderly are revered for their wisdom. Historical
Primitives include most prehistoric peoples, many American In­
dian and Arctic tribes, Australian aborigines, African bushmen and
pygmies, Amazon jungle tribes, Pacific Islanders, and New Guinea
natives.
Gameplay Benefits: This character automatically has +1d3
ranks of Wilderness Survival skill. A Primitive character learns
basic wea�on use at Average capability and hunting/gathering
_ to Fair competency. The learned weapon is usually a club,
skills
spear or bow and arrow. All adult, male Primitives (and some
females) can create weapons from natural resources (flint and
wood become a spear, a tree root a spiked club, etc.). If he or she
remains within a Primitive Culture, a beginning character will
always possess at least one hand weapon. A character from a
Primitive Culture has only a base 5% chance to be literate.Since Barbaric cultures live by the cruel exploitation of others. They
Primitives have no written language, this will always be the can be found at any Tech Level, though they are more common at
language of another culture. lower levels. Barbaric cultures are typified by charismatic dictators
Roleplay: Characters born into Primitive cultures tend to be feudalism, divine right of kings and so on. Power is secured and
s�perst!tious. ,:-radition is important to them. They are often maintai�ed by racism, violence, ignorance, and fear. Rights for
distrusting of "higher" levels of Culture, viewing their accomplish­ those without power are unheard-of. Cruelty is commonplace.
ments as evil. A Primitive character will probably be less willing to Sentien! l�fe has l_ittle value ("Not_-like-us" people have no value). A­
accept the "benefits" of civilization and may even suffer from lthough It Is �os_ �Ibleth�t Barbaric cultures might develop their own
ex_p��ure to civilized cultures. The challenge when playing a technology, It Is Just as hkely for them to take it from another culture
primItIve character thrust into _ a modern setting is not to rely on by force. Typical Barbaric cultures might be pirate outposts, Nazi
stereotypes. Yes at first it all seems like magic and evil spirits, but Germany,Stalinist Soviet Union, Cold War Era eastern Europe,
_
South Africa, and many third world dictatorships. Many 20th
remember: this character comes from a culture in which mere
survival is a daily fact of life. He or she will learn to survive and make century nations (even allegedly enlightened and free ones) pos­
the technological wilderness bend to serve his or her needs. sess this cultural attribute to some degree.
Other Culture: Roll a d6. On a result of 5-6, roll again on Table
1028: Culture to obtain a second description of this culture such
Nomadic Culture as a Developing Nomadic culture, or a Developing Barbaric cul­
This . culture does not build lasting structures, but instead ture. Use the lower of the two CuMods.
Gameplay Benefits: Character learns weapon-use (usually a
focuses its energy on transportation-the task of moving its people gun or other hand weapon) at Rank 3. Roll a d6. On a result of 5-
from place to place. Governments focus on strong leaders, whose 6, select one Darkside personality trait from Table 641 C: Darkside
control often does not extend beyond his clan or tribe. Examples Traits. Add + 1 bonus to character's Strength and Constitution
of N�madic !?lk include classic Gypsies, Bedouins, shepherds, attributes for merely surviving to adulthood.
_
trucking families, migrant laborers, or rebel biker gangs.
Roleplay: Barbaric cultures often focus upon some form of
Other Culture: Roll a d6. On a result of 5-6, roll again on Table
"hate," either racism, religious bigotry, or class suppression.
1028: Culture to obtain a second description of this culture, such Barbaric characters commonly view themselves with inflated
as a Developing Nomadic culture, or a Decadent Nomadic culture. racial or nationalistic pride. They dislike and persecute members
Use the lower of the two CuMods.
of other races, classes or cultures whom they perceive to be
Gameplay Benefits: Character learns to drive or ride the
vehicle or beast common to his people at Rank 4. Character has weaker than they are.
1d4 Ranks of skill at navigating and path-finding in his culture's
primary environment and at caring for or repairing their transpor­ Developing Culture
tation. A beginning player character has a 40%chance to possess
the basic transportation of his people (ofte in poor shape). This is a culture that is making great strides to improve itself
Roleplay: A Nomadic character may be afflicted with wander­ technologically, socially, and morally. Usually it is coming up from
lust and become uncomfortable when tied down to one locale. A Barbarism or making a comeback from Decadence, or Retrogres­
_ (see below). A Developing culture is a "Civilized" culture. Its
sion
Nomadic character will always feel out of place in a city and often
distrust those who live in them. A Nomadic character may have a � overnments favor those that offer representation of the peoples'
kind of wild vitality, a lust for life that has been lost by the "civilized." interests-anyone can grow up to become the leader of the nation.
Its people are aggressive, have a good self image and a desire to
make things better for themselves and their children. These people

H Table 102 continues on the next page ...

11
102: Culture & Technology 23 102: Culture & Technology

often place substantial emphasis on the moral concerns of tech­ might easily bore a person. On the other hand, they could be so
nology development. This is the United States of America of the foreign to the character that they intrigue him to no end.
early 20th century and how its citizens still imagine themselves.
Gameplay Benefits: Roll a d6. On a result of 3-5, select one
Lightside trait from Table 641A: Lightside Traits. On a result of 6,
Stagnant Culture
select 1d3 Lightside personality traits from Table 641A: Lightside No gains, either technological, sociological or artistic are being
Traits and one trait from Table 641B: Neutral Traits. made, or even have been made in recent memory. This culture has
Roleplay: A character from a Developing culture could easily remained as it is now for decades, generations, even millennia.
have a pioneer spirit, willing to take risks for the good of other They may not want to make changes, for this is a people steeped
people instead of personal gain. Emphasis is placed on Lightside in a "We've always done it this way before" tradition. The people
values (see Table 312: Attitude & Alignment). may not perform actual work, but instead pursue elaborate hob­
bies. Governments tend to be self-serving with emphasis on strug­
Dynamic Culture gling (usually against themselves) to merely maintain the status
quo. Some Middle-Eastern nations reflect aspects of this culture.
This is a culture marked by rapid growth, development and ex­ Gameplay Benefits: Character has 1d4+2 skill ranks at a low­
pansion. New ideas and technologies are being discovered and Tech occupation-one passed on to him by his ancestors. Select
exploited. Technology is advancing by leaps and bounds, often on Table 413F: Lo Tech Occupations.
progressing a full Tech Level within a generation or less. However, Roleplay: Characters born into Stagnant cultures may not
the fast growth also outpaces the ethical application of the new dis­ believe that innovations are possible. Tradition is important to
coveries, leaving the culture wide open for future disasters. Gov­ them and they are uncomfortable with change.
ernments are similar to Developing cultures, but access to real
political power moves out of the grasp of common people. Class Retrogressive Culture
stratification increases as fewer and fewer people profit from new
discoveries. It is a time of "Humanistic" theology, imagining the This is a Stagnant culture which is slowly losing the technolog­
people of the culture to be the apex of creation, the "gods" of their ical, social and cultural gains of earlier generations. Their Tech
universe. This is the U.S.A in the latter decades of the 2oth century. Level slowly, but surely slips backwards towards lower numbers.
Gameplay Benefits: Roll a d6. On a result of 3-5, select one Governments tend towards either dictatorial or authoritarian rule,
Neutraltraitfrom Table 6418: Neutra/Traits. On a result of 6, select or the "wisdom" of elders. This is not a common 20th century
1d3 Neutral personality traits from Table 641B: Neutral Traits and culture, though it might be representative of Cold War era Eastern
one trait from Table 641G: Darkside Traits. Europe.
Roleplay: Dynamic cultures are often self-centered, caught Gameplay Benefits: Character begins with 1d3 objects (no
up in the wonderfulness of themselves. In their eyes, they can do real estate) from Table 853: Gifts & Legacies. Any weapons or
no wrong (nor take responsibility for their individual failures). It is devices possessed by the character are of 1d3 higher Tech Levels
a culture of great Ego, one that believes that great risk taking and {but if they fail, they cannot be repaired).
great intellect should earn great reward. Moral bankruptcy has Roleplay: Character may have a "relationship" with any tech­
begun. Acharacter from here might share those values. Emphasis nological devices in his keeping, nurturing them along like a sick
is placed on Neutral values (see Table 312: Attitude & Alignment). friend. He may also covet devices of higher Tech Levels, seeking
to replace lost or damaged items in his own inventory.
Decadent Culture
These are cultures past the peak of their prime. Decay, partic­
Degenerate Culture
ularly moral decay, has set in at all levels of society and the people This is a people living within the ruins of their former greatness,
have become pleasure-loving and jaded. Tech Level remains unable to understand, let alone duplicate the technological feats of
constant, and few significant gains are made. Governments are their forebears. They are at least one, possibly even three or more
commonly those which function best with multiple layers of care­ levels beneath their ancestor's Tech Level. They are often super­
fully partitioned authority and responsibility (like Bureaucracies, stitious, even worshiping their ancestor's lost technological myste­
Corporations, and Democracies). The government becomes self­ ries. The term "degenerate" does not necessarily reflect the soci­
perpetuating and heedless of the people's needs. Although gov­ ety's moral status (as is true with a Decadent culture), though more
ernment support of the Poor is predominant, previously common often than not, their societies function like savage tribes with
civil liberties and government services begin to disappear. Inflation Primitive, Nomadic or Barbaric cultures. This is not a typical 20th
and unrestrained crime are often rampant. century culture.
Gameplay Benefits: Street-smarts, survival in the streets, Gameplay Benefits: Character begins with 1d3 objects (no
come naturally to this character. Give him 1 d3 additional skill real estate) from Table 853: Gifts & Legacies. These are an in­
Ranks of Urban Survival skill. Roll a d6. On a result of 1-3, select heritance and may even have sacred status (technological de­
one Darkside trait from Table 641C: Darkside Traits. On a result of vices have only a 50% chance to be functional). He will usually
4-5, select 1d3 Darkside personality traits from Table 641G: have Rank 3 skill in the religious knowledge of his people.
Darkside Traits and one trait from Table 641B: Neutral Traits. On Roleplay: Characters born into Degenerate cultures tend to
a result of 6, treat as a result of 4-5 but also select one exotic be superstitious. Tradition is important to them. They may have a
personality trait, on Table 642: Exotic Personality Traits. "ritualistic" approach to using devices akin to some complicated
Roleplay: It is not uncommon for citizens of these cultures religious ceremonies. They are often distrusting of unfamiliar
(even the lowliestslaves and street folk) to believe that their culture techn'ology or culture, viewing their accomplishments as evil.
is not only at its dynamic prime, but that it and they are vastly su­
periorto e verything else. A character could easily have a haughty
attitude, looking down his nose at everything. Simple pleasures

1 From Here - Continue on to Table 103: Social Status ...

11
 103: Social Status 24 103: Social Status

103: Destitute
These people are considered the dregs of society. They own no
property, and may have no fixed home. Some perform no real work
and are often unemployable. Others are in debt to a conniving em­

Social Status
ployer and live at his whim. Still more barely live off what meager
bounty the land provides. These folk may often be a class or "race"
who are discriminated against by others. Their chief industry is
foraging and scavenging. This is survival level-no luxuries. Money
is rare and all income goes toward staying alive. Includes street
103: Social Status (Roll a dlOO + CuMod ) people, unemployables, backwoods folk, sharecroppers, the low­
est classes in third world lands, and unfortunate Primitives.
dlOO Social Level SolMod TiMod Education Gameplay Benefits: Literacy chance is -30% to the base Tech
1-15 Destitute 0 3 -1d4 points Level chance. As a child, a Developing, Dynamic, Retrogressive or
Decadent character attains Rank 3 skill in street fighting (Dagger
16-40 Poor 2 3 and Brawling). As an Adolescent, this skill increases to Rank 4. In
41-84 Comfortable 4 3 +1d4 points a Developing, Dynamic or Retrogressive Culture, the character
85-86 (reroll on this table, but do not add CuModto roll) has a 40%chance to have Underworld Experience (see Table 526:
Underworld Events). In a Decadent culture, this rises to 60%.
87-95 Well-to-Do 5 3 +2d4 points Money: 25% of normal starting money. No sane or honest
96-99 Wealthy* 7 3 +2d6 points person outside the character's own Social Level will loan him
100-110 Nobility** (+5) ** +1d6 points money (unless they do so as an act of charity).
Roleplay: Destitute characters may believe that they have no
ExtremelyWealthy 10 3 +3d6 points real control over their own lives and exist merely at the whim of
* Some Wealthy characters will be Extremely Wealthy. Roll a d100. others, whether it be the gods, the wealthy or just anyone who is
If the result is less than or equal to the character's TiMod, then he not Destitute. This attitude might be expressed as hopelessness,
or she is Extremely Wealthy. or become hatred and revenge against either society or those be­
** Read the special instructions under the Nobility section on the lieved to be the cause of his misfortune.
next page.
Poor
I:
I

.I Within a Culture, the social standing of a character's parents Poor people have comparatively low income. They usually do
can affect the attitudes that a character will have about himself and not or cannot own property. Dwellings may be government sub­
others. Social Status is like a Subculture within a Culture. The ba­ sidized and usually of lesser quality, sometimes due to uncaring
sic attitudes and skills of the Culture remain, but they are modified landlords who may also be the Poor person's employer. Trans­
by Social Status. Social Status within a given culture is relative. A portation is usually old and/or previously owned. Non-Nomadic
prince in one society could be little better than a pauper in another. Poor rarely travel and almost never leave the country, state or
Social Status indicates the general wealth of the character's province of their birth. Luxuries include nice food, heat, pets and
family. Should subsequent events so dictate, this wealth could be­ clean water. Includes most laborers, low-level craftsmen and
come the character's fortune, or lack thereof. It is possible for the technicians, soldiers, peasants, public welfare recipients, many
course of events in a character's life to change his Social Status farmers, apprentices, and low-ranking office or factory workers.
for better or worse. For a beginning character, it affects initial start­ Gameplay Benefits: Literacy chance is -15% to the base Tech
ing money-a Wealthy character will usually have more money Level chance. As an adolescent, the character has a 50% chance
than a Poor character. to attain Rank 3 rating in street fighting. Character has a 15%
Instructions: Roll a d100 and add the CuModfrom Table chance to have Underworld Experience during Adolescence (see
Table 526: Underworld Events).
102tothe result. Following each Social Level entry is a Social Lev­
el Modifier ( So/Mod). Write the selected Social Level on line 103 Money: 50% of normal starting money. Character will have
of the worksheet and the corresponding So/Mod value in the Die difficulty borrowing anything more than small change from other
roll modifiers box. The So/Mod is used to modify other die rolls. than criminal sources.
Roleplay: The Poor must work hard to keep what little they
Modify the character's Education Point total (see below), read the
roleplay notes and the Social Level description, then go to Table have, otherwise they would be Destitute. A Poor character might
104: Birth & Family. Record the character's literacy chance on line
always be concerned about having enough to get by; but the Poor
103 (see page 8 more more information on Literacy). usually have hope - that they or their children might have a better
life if they can work hard and long enough (though government
Education Points: Add (or subtract) the indicated num­ hand-out programs often sap these folk's self worth). A character
ber of points from the character's Education point total. from this Social Level may long for a better life, or she could be
Roleplay: Like culture, the character retains at least some satisfied with the way things are. Hard work is good and the re­
of the values and attitudes of the Social Status of his birth, even wards enjoyable. Of all the Social Levels, the Poor are most likely
though he later changes social standing. The longer a character to emphasize religious matters in their lives or be superstitious.
spends in a Social Status level, the more he adopts the attitudes
of that social standing. A Poor characterwho becomesWell-to-Do Comfortable
may initially be frugal, but the longer he lives the good life, the more , This is the middle class of any Culture, regardless of the Tech
concerned he becomes about appearing Wealthy. Level or average wealth of its citizens. These folk usually live in
clean, nicely apportioned homes or apartments, often in better

H Table 103 continues on the next page ...

11
103: Social Status 25 103: Social Status

neighborhoods. They eat regularly and occasionally very well.

Children are schooled and often go on to higher education. They Extremely Wealthy
usually own a modest automoblie or other inexpensive vehicle. Like the Wealthy, they have heaps of money. However, they
Luxuries include travel vacations, good food, the ability to hire view the merely Wealthy as cheapskates. Extremely Wealthy folk
occasional menial services, nice clothing, and leisure devices. own estates the size of small countries, have armies of servants
This class includes experienced factory workers, mid level office (and often an army), throw parties that would beggar most cities,
workers, professors and teachers, skilled craftsmen and techni­ and are often quite eccentric. They include heirs of old family
cians, highly-skilled laborers, lower government officials, low­ fortunes who have continued to expand their holdings, national
ranking military officers, lesser clergy, and shopkeepers. rulers and ruling Nobility, and owners of huge, grossly successful,
Gameplay Benefits: Character has a +5% to base Tech Level multinational, heavily diversified corporations.
chance to be literate. Character has a 35% chance to own a sport Gameplay Benefits: Literacy chance is +50% to the base
weapon (e.g., a hunting rifle, target pistol, even a crossbow). Tech Level chance. The character has a 30% chance to be able to
Money: 100% of normal starting money. Character has no speak 1d4 other languages. Character has a vehicle from Table
problem borrowing moderate amounts of money at fair rates. 864: Vehicles and a 75% chance to have 1d3 items from Table
Roleplay: Folk from this Social Status are considered to rep­ 854:Perks& Stuff. Within reason (theGM's), a character can begin
resent the mainstream of their Culture's beliefs and attitudes. with just about anything he desires, including fine clothing, unusual
equipment, ground vehicles, small aircraft, armament, exotic tech­
Well-to-Do nology, even a largish sea-going yacht. Reasonable availability of
items should be a limiting factor.
These folk are the upper end of the middle class. They typically Money: Within reason, the character has as much money as
ownlargerhomes, have a household servant (a cook and/or maid), he requires-as long as he is at home (limit this to 20x the normal
have conspicuous private transportation, and travel abroad. They starting money). Character has no need to borrow money unless
often own more than one well-appointed home in more than one he is bankrolling a country or a war.
cityor resort area. Their children are privately educated and attend Roleplay: Chances are that she will believe that money solves
prominent universities. Luxuries include elegantfurnishings, origi­ all problems. She may never have been exposed to the seamier
nal artwork, libraries, parties, fine clothing, and some exotic foods. side of life and may have no concept of what it is like NOT to have
This class includes younger offspring of Nobility, highly skilled
a desire gratified instantly. Although cliche, the "spoiled rich" kid
craftsmen and technicians, high-ranking military officers, success­ routine could easily fit her. Also, see Wealthy roleplay guidelines.
ful merchants, ship owners, high-ranking clergy of prominent relig­
ions, high-level office and government workers.
Gameplay Benefits: Literacy chance is +30% to the base Nobility
Tech Level chance. The character who rolls this is a member of a titled Noble family,
Money: 150% of normal starting money. He has no problem the aristocracy of old. A Noble is only likely to have come from a
borrowing good-sized sums of money at reasonable rates. country in which hereditary nobility is still recognized. In the 20th
Roleplay: Outward appearances are often the be-all and end­ century, it no longer implies wealth or power, only that the charac­
all of this Social Status and these folk may try to act like they are ter's family once wielded them. These folk have fancy titles, and
Wealthy. A strong tendency here to look on lower Social Statuses may be generally better off than their fellows, yet they may also be
as something bordering on "unclean" and to attempt to associate paupers, tied to large estates which have drained family resources
only with those of equal or higher status. Of all Social Statuses, due to inflation and taxation. Follow the instructions below to select
Well-to-Do folk are probably the least tolerant of their children titles, lands and so on, then return here.
becoming adventurers ("What will the neighbors think?"). Research: investigate the character's country of origin. Find
out what titles may be given to Nobles. Determine if Nobles in that
Wealthy land wield any real political or social power. If a country never had
a titled aristocracy (e.g., t.he U.S.A. or Canada) select an ances­
These people are rich. They own large estates, have many ser­ tral country of origin on Table 101: Character Origins.
vants, plush furnishings and large holdings of commercial proper­ Special Instructions: Go to Table 746: Nobles to determine
ty. They usually make their money from investments, real estate the Noble title of the character's parents and other details. Finally,
holdings, commodities and gouging poorer folk. What most lower reroll Social Status on this table (to find out the family's wealth and
social levels see as luxuries, they take for granted. This class in­ current situation), adding the TiModfrom Table 746. Reroll results
cludes most Nobility, high-placed clergy of rich religions, owners of 100 to 110. Add 5 to the resulting So/Mod. The maximum
of very successful companies, political and criminal leaders. possible So/Modfor a Noble is 15.
Gameplay Benefits: Literacy chance is +50% to the base Gameplay Benefits: Literacy chance is +20% over the base
Tech L evel chance. Character will usually have a finely furnished Tech Level + Social Status chance. Education bonus is added to
home, a vacation retreat in a nearby wilderness or resort area, an Social Status education points. A Noble character has a 50%
expensive new personal vehicle, fine clothing, 1d3 pieces of chance to have a strange personality quirk, selected from Table
jewelry worth 1Ox starting money each, 1d3 sport weapons (can be 642: Exotic Personality Traits and 1d3 items from Table 853: Gifts
automatic). Character has a 75% chance each to have a vehicle & Legacies as a family inheritance.
from Table 864: Vehicles and one item from Table 854: Perks & Money: Money is determined by Social Status.
Stuff.
Roleplay: Even a Destitute Noble will consider himself to be
Money: 300% of normal starting money. Character has no betterthan others. The importance and role of Nobility will vary with
problem borrowing large sums of money at favorable rates. the Culture. They may be dynamic hereditary leaders, able to com­
Roleplay: A Wealthy character is accustomed to the finer
things in life and may be uncomfortable "roughing it." It may be hard ma(¥:! men to their deaths, or pleasure-loving parasites, tolerated
only out of tradition. Read the roleplay guidelines under Table 746:
forth is character to accept someone from a lower Social Status as
an equal. Nobles for further help in roleplaying this character.

1 From Here - Continue on to Table 104: Birth & Family ...

11
104: Birth & Family 26 104: Birth & Family �

104: ld20104B: The Family

1-7
8-10
11
(roll ld20)
Two Parents (if illegitimate, parents not married).
One Parent. Roll Hi/Lo. Hi= Mother. Lo= Father.
Creche. Communal child-rearing.

Birth & Family

12 State-run Center. Communal child care.
13 Aunt and Uncle.
14 Older Sibling. Roll Hi/Lo. Hi= Brother. Lo= Sister.
15 Grandparents. +1d4 Siblings.
A character's life begins among his family. Though they 16 Guardian.*
may not figure heavily into her later adventures, a character's first 17 None known. Left to fend for self. Change Social Status
values come from her family. It is here that she may place her to Destitute (+d3 Ranks to Survival Skills).
strongest allegiances. 18 None known. Raised in an Orphanage. Change Social
Status to Poor. GM ONLY: See entry #1048 on Table
965: GM 's Specials.

I
104A: Birth Legitimacy
19 Other Relation. Select on Table 104D: Other Relations.
An illegitimate child is a child begotten of a woman not married 20 More Relatives. Reroll basic family type, ignoring rolls
to the father and who is not adopted by the father's family. higher than 18. Then select 1d6additional relations from
Instructions: Roll a d20. If the result is 19+, the character Table 104D: Other Relations.
is illegitimate and has a LegitModequal to 1d4. Subtract the Legit­
Mod from the character's So/Mod to get the character's new • If the roll indicates that the character was raised by a guardian, roll
So/Mod. Record birth legitimacy on line 104A of your worksheet. 1d20. If the result of the roll is8 or less, refer to Table 745: Guardians.
Go to 1048: The Family. If the result of this roll is greater than 8, then the character was
orphaned at birth and adopted into a more-or-less normal family group.
Gameplay Notes: If a Noble character is illegitimate, h� Roll a second time on this table, rerolling results of 14 or higher.
gains no further benefit from his TiMod, unless he is the sole heir
of his Noble parent.
104B: The Family 104D: Other Relations
Most characters begin life as part of a family group, often in­ Use only if directed here by another table
cluding a mother and father, a few brothers and sis!ers and often
additional relatives who make up an extended family. Instructions: Roll 2d8 on the table below. Unless the
Instructions: Roll a d20. Match the result against Table relative has an obvious sex (such as a mother), roll Hi/Lo to select
1048to determine the type of family arrangement. Write the result the relative's sex. Hi=female. Lo=male. Also, for relations outside
on line 1048 of the character worksheet and go on to the next step, the immediate family, determine which side of the family the
104G: Siblings and Birth Order. relative is related to. Roll for Hi/Lo. Hi= Mother. Lo= Father.
Roleplay: The family is the core of a character's early Note: The possibility of Time Travel in some games makes
growth. A character who grow.s up surround_ed by relatives ?ften situations involving distant descendants or ancestors and even the
has a different perspective on life than a child raised by a single character's own children possible - use discretion.
parent. Family may be relied upon for aid in times of need.
104C: Siblings & Birth Order 2d8 104D: Other Relations (roll 2d8)
Chances are that the character has or had one or more bro­ 2 Child. Roll Hi/Lo. Hi= Son. Lo = Daughter .
thers or sisters. Birth order affects things like inheritance, family 3 Distant Relative. Shares a common ancestor.
influence, career, titles and personality. 4 2nd Cousin. A cousin's child or a parent's cousin.
Instructions: To find the number of siblings (if any) known 5-6 Sibling. Roll Hi/Lo. Hi= Brother. Lo= Sister .
to have survived birth, roll a d6-1. Record this numberon the work­ 7 Spouse (husband or wife).
sheet. Next roll a d6 again. If the result of this roll is less than the 8 First Cousin. The offspring of an uncle or aunt.
number of siblings, it then represents the character's order of birth. 9 Aunt or Uncle. Roll for Hi/Lo. Hi= sibling of a parent. Lo
If the number is greater, then roll for Hi/Lo. Hi = chara?ter is = spouse of a a parent's sibling.
firstborn. Lo= character is last born. Record the order of birth on 10 Great Aunt or Uncle. Sibling of a grandparent.
the worksheet, then go on to Table 105: Place of Bi'!h. 11 Parent.
Roleplay: Siblings can be best friends, ardent rivals or even 12 Grandparent. Parent of a parent.
worst enemies. They can be ordinary people or they can be 13 Great Grandparent. Parent of a grand parent.
exceptional individuals whose talents outshine the character's 14 Ancestor. Roll a d3 and add 1. The result is the number
own (imagine always living in the shadow of a more s�c?essful of generations removed from the character's grand par­
brother or sister). You may wish to further expand upon sIbhngs by ents (Great Grandparent, Great-great Grandparent, etc.).
giving them names, sexes, ages, and so on. 15 Descendant. Roll a d3 and add 1. The result is the num-
First barns may be more aggressive and r�ceive most o� their ber of generations removed from the character.
parent's attention and resources. A younger child maytryto hve up 16 Mysterious. The person claims to be a relation, yet the
to an older sibling's reputation, or take on a "why even try" attitude. character was not aware of the person's existence. Re roll
Gameplay Benefits: First borns usually inherit Noble

n
the relationship, ignoring rolls over 15. GM Only: see
family titles. Any other inheritance is divided equally among the entry #1040 in Table 965: GM 's Specials.
character and his siblings.

From He�e-Continue on to Table 105: Place of Birth

11
 105: Place of Birth 27 105: Place of Birth

105: 105B: Exotic Places (roll ld20)

Use only if directed here by another table

d20 BiMod Character was born:

Place of Birth 1 (10) In a prison cell (might indicate thatthe character's

mother was imprisoned at the time).
2 (20) In a scientist's research laboratory.
Your character was probably born somewhere, possibly 3 (15) In a temple of a good church or religion.

I
some place unusual (or even someplace exotic). 4 (5) In a corporate building.
5 (5) In a back alley.
• Instructions: Roll on Table 105A: Place of Birth. "Super 6 (5) In a brothel (this does not necessarily indicate
Hero" and Horrors genre characters add +5 to their rolls on this that her mother was a prostitute).
table. Each entry on this table is accompanied by a number in 7 (5) In a_ palace. Roll a d4 on the subtable below.
parentheses. This number is the character's Birth Modifier or 1 A local ruler
BiMod. Write the Place of Birth on line 105 on your worksheet and 2 A powerful and influential ruler
the BiModin the Die Roll Modifiers box. From here, go to Table 3 A powerful evil despot
106: Unusual Births unless told otherwise. 4 A powerful good being
Record the character's home world on line 105 as well. If no
specific world is mentioned, assume it is the game world. 8 (10) On stage. Roll a d4 on the subtable below.
Roleplay: Imagine the circumstances that would have 1 Theater- either dramatic or operatic.
brought the character's mother to the location of birth. Could there 2 Television- "Live," during an interview.
be some event or individual that caused the character to be born 3 Motion picture- used in the final cut.
l• here? How does it fit in the with character's Technology Level, 4 Video- stopped the music, made the news.
I Culture or Social Status? Would it be normal for a character to be
born under unusual circumstances?
9 (10) In an area reputed to have a highly mystical
influence.
10 (5) In a bar or tavern.
11 (10) In the sewers.
105A: Place of Birth (roll d20*) 12 (5) In a criminal hideout.
('Super heroes and horror characters add a +5 to the roll) 13 (15) In the presence of monsters. Select the monster
type on Table 748: Horrors.
d20 BiMod Character was born: 14 (25) Born within the gravitation effect of a black hole. t
15 (20) In the temple of an evil or malignant cult.
1 (5)In a field (out in the open, not in a building) 16 In another dimension.t
2 In a forest (in the trees, not in a hut or house) (25)
(5) 17 (20) In another time period.t
34 (5) In a barn (or other farm building) 18 (15) On anotherworld. Use Table 105C: WorldTypes.t
5-7 (5) In the character's family home 9-20 (+5) Roll twice more on this table. Combine the results
8 (+5) In a combined exotic location. Select two loca­ (and BiMods) in a workable way.
tions on Table 1058: Exotic Places, combine
them together and add the BiMods. t Character was transported to this world 1d4 years after birth.
9 (0) In a swimming pool (the natural birth idea)
10-11 (5) In a foreign land (roll on Table 101: Character
Originsto determine the land, and then roll again 105C: World Types
on this table for more information. Add any result­
ing BiMods.) Use only if directed here by another table
12-17 (0) In a hospital
18-19 (5) In a vehicle while travelling. Roll a d4 on the Instructions: Roll a d10. Characters are assumed to
subtable below: either be protected from, or indigenous to hostile environments.
1 In a wagon
2 In a motorized land vehicle dlO 105C: World Types
3 In a sea going vessel
1 Volcanic world. Active volcanism everywhere.
4 In an aircraft 2 Water/Swamp world. Mostly seas, islands, and swamps.
20 (+5) In an exotic location. Select it on Table 1058: 3-5 Earth-like world. Much water, large land masses.
Exotic Places. 6 Barren world. Rocky and barely habitable.
21-22 (5) In a "special" organization's personal or affiliated 7 Glaclal world. Mostly ice and snow, but life can exist.
hospital- guaranteed to be prepared for any 8 Forest world. Covered by huge tracts of virgin forest.
strange births. 9 Desert world. Has atmosphere, but little or no water.
23 (5) In the main hall at a gaming convention. Nobody 10 Reroll. Add 4 to the die roll result.
was surprised. 11 Airless rock/Ice-ball. Like Earth's moon, heavily cratered.
24-25 (+5) In a combined exotic location. Select two loca­ 12 ttollow world. Roll again for inside climate.
tions on Table 1058: Exotic Places, combine 13 Artificial world. A world constructed by sentient beings.
them together and add the BiMods. 14 White dwarf or neutron star (Incredibly heavy gravity).

1 From here continue on to Table 106: Unusual Births ...

11
106: Unusual Births 28 106: Unusual Births

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Unusual Births
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Heroic characters often begin their lives under unusual,
\ ) ,,
,

dangerous or even mysterious circumstances. These events often

knowingly or unknowingly shape their later lives.

106A: Unusual Births

r:
Instructions: Roll a d100 and add the character's BiMod
(from Table 105) to the result and match the total against Table
106A to check for the occurrence and number of unusual circum­
stances surrounding the character's birth. Characters to be used I. C. ,l )(
in either Super-powered or Horror-based games also add a +20 to
this roll. Where the instruction indicates "d2 at +20" roll the number
indicated by the dice roll with an add of 20, that number of events
are to rolled at +20 on the die roll on Table 106B. probably believe that there is something special (for good or ill)
If one or more unusual occurrences took place, record the about his life and his purpose in the ultimate scheme of things.
number on line 106A of the character worksheet and select them
1068: Birth Events. If there are no unusual birth events, proceed dlOO 106A: Unusual Births
to Table 107: Parents & NPCs.
(Rolla dlOO+BiMod-horrorand supers add +20)
Player Characters: If you are a player, creating a player
character and the result on Table 106 indicates that the GM is to 01-50 Nothing unusual occurred.
determine one or more unusual birth circumstances, make a note 51-75 One unusual occurrence.
of this on your character worksheet. Your character is not aware 76 One unusual occurrence at plus 20.
of the true nature of the resulting circumstance (or its effects have 77-82 Two unusual occurrences.
yet to reveal themselves). Let your GM make those rolls. He will 83-90 Two unusual occurrences -GM selects one.
then reveal any obvious results and make a note of the "truth." 91 Two unusual occurrences-d2 at plus 20.
Discovery of the "truth" about a character's birth could easily 92-94 Three unusual occurrences. -
become a motivation for the character. 95-98 Three unusual occurrences -GM selects one.
99 Three unusual occurrences-d3 at plus 20.
Non-Player Characters: If you are a GM, creating a 100 Four unusual occurrences.
nonplayer character (NPC) and the result on Table 106 indicates 101-109 Four unusual occurrences-GM selects 1d2.
that the GM is to determine an unusual birth circumstance, make 110 -116 Four unusual occurrences-GM select 1d3 at +20.
the roll, but assume that the NPC is unaware of the true nature of 121-124 Four unusual occurrences -d4 at plus 20
such rolls. 125+ Five unusual occurrences-d5 at plus 20.

106B: Birth Events

dlOO 106B: Birth Events (Roll a dlOO)
This table is a collection of unusual events that can surround
the birth of heroic characters. The mysterious nature of their births (Rolla dlO0+BiMod-horror and supers add +20)
often foreshadows lives fraught with the unusual.
01 Character was put for adoption at birth and was
Instructions: Take the result from Table 106A and roll a adopted by a rich, benevolent elderly couple. How rich? Go to
d100 that many times on the table below, applying any modifiers Table 103: Social Status, and ignore the instructions there.
as noted. If a later roll contradicts a previous roll, take the first result Instead, make a d20+80 roll, with NO culture mod. Record the
obtained. Reroll all duplicate results. Characters from Horror or changes to the character's So/Mod, TiMod, and Education in
Super Hero games add "plus 20" to all rolls on Tables 106A, and the appropriate places.
1068. Record each birth circumstance on the lines provided in the
NOTES & EVENTS section of the worksheet (line 106). 02-04 Father believes the character is not his child, but the
offspring of another man (whether true or not).
Roleplay: The circumstances surrounding a character's
birth are often seen as omens that foretell the child's life. An 05-07* Seasonally unnatural weather occurred. This might
asterisk (*) following the number on a table entry indicates that include blizzards in summer or soaring temperatures in winter.
others who know of this occurrence may treat the character Q8* The sky darkened when character was born (like an
differently than they might a "normal" child. The character might be eclipse). If born at night, the moon and
seen as being special, gifted, or even "unclean," something to be stars went dark briefly. Continued ... �
hidden away. Often the worst events are kept from the child, but

l..._1 ___________ 1\ f
LS 106: Unusual Births 29 106: Unusual Births
■�
dlOO 106B: Birth Events (continued ... ) dlOO 106B: Birth Events (continued ... )
09-10 Concerned parents or relatives start a savings fund for S0-51* The house became infested with poisonous creatures
the character when she is born. Character starts with 2x normal the next day (someone may have been killed).
starting money, and will receive 5% starting money in interest
52-56* The character was put up for adoption upon birth. The
monthly.
character begins the background process over again for her new
14-16* A person of note in the vicinity of the character's home family, starting with Table 102: Culture & Technology.
died when he or she was born. Character could be blamed for the
57-58* Character was born with serious physical afflictions.
death, or he might be presumed to be a reincarnation of the
Physicians replace 1 d3 defective or missing body parts with
deceased. Select person on Table 743: Others. artificial counterparts. The functional ability of the parts reflect
17-18 Birth was such an unpleasant experience for the char­ available technology. Select the details on Table 858: Exotic
acter. She was comfortable, warm, and well fed, and those Features, but make sure that the part is artificial.
doctors took all that away from her. To best reflect her trauma, go
59-60* The infant character was left to die (maybe in a trash
to Table 642: Exotic Personality Traits, and follow the directions.
bin?) by natural mother. Character is subsequently raised by
19-20 The character's birth was well publicized, whether due foster parents who are given custody of the infant.
to deliriously happy parents or due to his family merely being in
the public eye, or just the strangeness of the situation. The local 6 1-62 No one bothered to record the character's birth, and as
a result, he's slipped through the cracks of official documentation.
communication networks just overran with the news. He cannot be traced, ID'd from a photo bank, or even finger­
21 Not only did the doctor arrive just in time, she turned out printed, because no one knows that he exists. Of course, this
to be a world-renowned brilliant surgeon and obstetrician. Events makes buying anything on credit rather difficult (impossible?).
just seem to fall the character's way. This incredibly lucky
character receives a plus 5 to his or her Luck attribute (if 63 Reroll on this table without any dice adds.
applicable) and a 25% favor from the GM on all randomly 64-72* Character is born immediately after a momentous event.
determined rolls concerning the character. Roll for Hi/Lo. On a Hi result, select the occurrence on Table 520:
22-23"' Mother died in childbirth. Select additional notes about
Tragedies. On a Lo result, select the occurrence on Table 521:
the death on Table 539: Death of a Loved One. Something Wonderful.... Roleplay: Superstitious folk often
associate one event with another. Others who know of this might
24-2S Experimental chemical waste was dumped close by. easily believe the character's birth was related to the event.
26-28 Due to complications, the character almost dies during 73-81"' Character is born with an unusual birthmark. Select
birth. The doctors are amazed that the character lived. Add 1 to mark on Table 856: Birthmarks.
her Constitution attribute.
8 2* At birth, the character is discovered to possess abnor­
29"' Due to complications, the character's twin dies during malities. Select these possibly beneficial changes on Table 858:
birth. Roll for Hi/Lo. Hi= character knows of it. Lo= it was kept a Exotic Features.
secret.
83-87 Character's mother attempted to kill character immedi­
30-34 Character has identical twin (20% chance of being ately after birth, but was prevented. No justification was given at
separated at birth). Also, roll a d6. On a result of 6, the twin's per­ the time for her behavior.
sonality is drastically different than that of the character, possibly 88 Character was one of a set of identical triplets.
even opposite (if one became good and noble of spirit, the other
might become evil and cruel). 89-93* Character is born during the occurrence of a noteworthy
35-38* A family member died the day that the character was event. Roll a d1 O on the subtable below to select the event.
born. Character could be blamed for the death, or he might be 1 First contact 6 A natural disaster
presumed to be a reincarnation of the deceased. Select person 2 A war 7 A holiday
on Table 104D: Other Relations. 3 A rebellion 8 A plague
4 A journey 9 A famine
39-41 Character has a fraternal twin. Roll Hi/Lo to determine 5 An attack 10 An astronomical event
gender (Hi= female. Lo= male).
94 Character born with 1d3 psychic powers. Select them
42-45 Character is hidden away to prevent others from the on Table 860: Psychic Powers.
knowing of his birth.
95-97 Character was lost in the wilds almost immediately after
46-48* A psychic declares that the character will be afflicted by birth, and spent 3d6 years being raised by intelligent (for animals)
an ancient family curse (that the character's family obviously wild animals. Choose a fairly"smart" animal from your your game
thought was long gone) upon reaching adulthood. Once each world, and assume that the character can communicate reasona­
year, the adu It character ( and those around him) may be afflicted bly well with it. Also, he probably has several skills now that are
by a tragedy. Roll a d6 on the character's birthday after he not normally available to humans (or does some much better).
reaches adulthood. If the result is 5-6, then have the GM select
an event on Table 520: Tragedies and work the outcome into the 98-102 A Mysterious stranger bestows a gift on the character at
events of his campaign. birth. Go to Table 853: Gifts & Legacies to find the nature of the
gift. Roll a d6. On a result of 6, the character later learns the
49* GM Only: see item #1068 on Table 965: GM's Specials. idenlity of the stranger. Use Table 743:
Players STAY AWAY! Otherstofind this identity. continued ... �

I
11 11
106: Unusual Births 30 106: Unusual Births

dlOO 106B: Birth Events (continued ... ) .

103 Roll Twice more and add 1d20 to the resulting rolls.
104-108* The character is indirectly responsible for an­
other's death (an infant can't be directly responsible-can
she?). Maybe they were hurrying to the delivery room. In any
case, some people still blame her. Select the deceased on
Table 743: Others.
109-113 Character is part of an unusually large multiple
dlO 106C Horror Birth Events (roll a dlO)
birth. Roll 2d4+1 to determine the number of surviving siblings.
Roleplay: Character will have to deal with a small amount of Use only if directed here by another Table
lingering fame, due to the bountiful accident of his shared birth.
114-117* Character is the end product of a eugenics ex­ 1* The character had a twin, but instead of crying, it bit the
periment to produce a super-being by way of selective breed­ doctor and "ran" out of the delivery area. Character, if he
ing. Roll a d6 for each of the character's attributes (see pages concentrates, can "sense"the environment/location of the twin,
4 & 5). If the result is a 5-6, add 1 d3 points to that attribute. although he may not always want to.
118-119* Character is the final test subject in experimental 2* Really, really gross. That's how people described the
drug research. Roll 1d6 for each of his attributes (see pages 4 events of theday that the character was born. Animals within a
& 5). If the result is 6, add 1d6 to the that attribute. If the result half mile died horrible deaths, usually by explosion. It's appar­
is 1, subtract 1d3from that attribute. Total up the number of attri­ ent to the character and no one else that she had nothing to do
butes changed and multiply the total by 5. This is the percent­ with it, because she finds that animals take well to her, and that
age chance forthe character to receive an item from each of the she can '1eel" their emotions and intents. She also knows that
following tables. Make a separate check for each table. most of them died of fright that day, long before their bodies
were destroyed.
Table 858: Exotic Features
Table 859: Serious Wounds (treat as a birth defect) 3 GM Only: See entry#106C on Table965:GM's Specials.
Table 860: Psychic Powers 4* The character's primary caretaker claims to have seen
Table861: Appearances(reroll results that seem wrong) ghosts the day that the character was born. She's the only one
120 The character WAS born yesterday. At least, to have seen them.
that's as far back as he can remember. He's fully conscious and 5* Newborn character is the only survivor of an unexplained
alert, but the body that he's in doesn't feel right. His memories event that devastated his birthplace (from Table 105: Place of
and skills are not the ones he thinks he would have learned. Birth). Some say that it was an encounter from beyond, and
Have the GM create the character's "real" background and let some say that it was a visitation of nether-worldly powers.
him learn it bit by bit through game play. How he ended up in this
body is a matter of incredible circumstances best left to the GM. 6* On the day that the character was born, the family
received a battered letter addressed, correctly, to the newest
121-126 The character's birth is genre specific to Horror family member-though the character's name wasn't public
and Super Hero genres (all others genre characters reroll). Use yet. The worn parchment contained one word, something like
either Table 540E: Super Birth Events (for super hero types) or "precious," and a vow - "For you on your every birthday." Roll
Table 106G: Horror Birth Events. a d4. On a result of 4, the character discovers before his adven­
127-128 The character is a natural focus for strange phe­ turing career begins that the sender has been offing people on
nomena, and weirdness just seems to follow her around. For­ a yearly basis (or something equally insidious) ... on the
tunately, she has adjusted to his peculiar life. Add +20% to the character's birthday.
character's Fear reaction, +20% to her Surprise adjustment 7 Since the character was born "normal," he really doesn't
(she just isn't fazed anymore), and +2 to her primary guessing fit in with the rest of his family. When the significant figures in his
attribute (like intuition, Insight, or for lack of another, Luck). life, including his parents and siblings, are rolled up, use Tables
129-132 A genre birth has occurred-but not necessarily 748: Horrors, 858:Exotic Features, and 642: Exotic Personality
within the scope of the character's normal game genre. Resolve Traits liberally. Yet the nice thing is, they are all decent,
the birth on Table 540E: Super Birth Events. upstanding citizens-it's just that everyone else thinks that
they're monsters or something (when only Uncle Boilermaker
133-136 Horrible, ghastly things accompanied the birth. is a real monster).
Make a roll on Table 106G: Horror BirthEvents to find out what.
8 Grandfather left the character a book and a note, which
137-139 Fate has decided that the character starts life with read "Do not read until you can, do not learn until you know, and
a little excitement. Make two rolls on the genre birth table appro­ do not begin to use until all else is ending." The book is
priate to the game. Use either Table 5408: Secret Birth Origins completely illegible until the character's 2d12+4 birthday, when
(for super hero types) or Table 106G: Horror Birth Events. the powerful words become mysteriously visible. GM decides
140 The laws of chance bend to the character's will­ the effects.
make two more rolls at +20 (this is in addition to the normal +20 fl-10* Go to Table 523: Horror Events and follow directions
received by supers and horrors to get here in the first place.)

n
to create an event occuring around the time of the character's
birth. Assume that one or both parents are ''the character."

From Here - Continue on to Table 107: Parents & NPCs ...

11
 07: Parents & NPCs 31 107: Parents & NPCs
Ii! ■!
Ii :

107:
I

Parents & NPCs d.20 107A: Occupation (roll a d20)

A character's parents are really Nonplayer characters 1-12 Head of household (NPC) has one occupation. Use
'NPCs). For most NPCs, just labeling them by their occupation or the appropriate occupation table for the parent's or NPC's
�lationship to the character will be enough. For other important Technology Level (see below}.
NPCs, you will want to create backgrounds as detailed as those 13-14 Head of household (NPC) has one primary occupa­
you make up for player characters. Rather than use the regular tion which is performed full-time and a secondary occupation
method to create every NPC who needs a bit of history, it's nice to which is performed on a part-time basis. For the primary
to uch only the highlights and yet still get an interesting character. occupation, use the appropriate occupation table for the par­
The following two tables reveal important aspects of an NPC, ent's or NPC's Technology Level and (see below). For the
those that stand out when he is encountered. secondary occupation, repeat the process for the primary
Instructions: Make the NPC's appearance noteworthy. occupation, but do not add in any modifiers for Social Status.
Select an item on Table 861: Appearances. Read the notes below 15-16 Head of household (NPC) does not work. Other
then go on to Table 107A. parent works. Use the appropriate occupation table for the
Special Notes about Parents: What a character be­ parent's or NPC's Technology Level and Social Status (see
comes is greatly influenced by the beliefs, attitudes and lifestyle of below). For an NPC or single parent household, treat as a result
those who rear him as a child or adolescent. In the best of of 13-14.
situations, these are the character's parents; but can also be 17-18 Both parents within the household have an occupa­
guardians or masters of an orphanage. tion. Use the appropriate occupation table for the parent's or
NPC's Technology Level and Social Status (see below} for
Table 107A: Occupations each parent. For an NPC, treat as a result of 13-14.
Regardless of technology, culture or social status, all persons 19 Head of household (NPC} is or was an adventurer.
in a society are assumed to have a job, something that they do that 20 Head of household (NPC} does not have a readily
provides food and shelter for themselves and their dependents. apparent occupation of any kind. When money is needed, it just
Rather than say that the father or mother of a family is the seems to be available. GM ONLY: See entry 107A on Table
principle money-earner, the term "head of household" is used. The 965: GM 's Specials .
head of the household is the parent upon whom society tradition­
ally places the burden of support. This is often the father or male
parent, but it may also be the most skilled worker in the family. Which Occupation Table
Instructions: Roll a d20 to select the Parent's or NPC's is the Right One?
occupation. Note that this table merely selects the number of
occupations in the household, not the actual jobs performed. Tech Level is used to select occupation types as shown in
Follow the directions given for the result. Select the Parent/NPC's the chart below:
job proficiency on Table 418: Occupation Performance. Then con­
tinue on to Table 1078 to continue the NPC's (or parent's) Tech Level 1 to 3, use Table 413F: Lo-Tech Occupations. i
development. Tech Level 4+, use Table 413A: Occupations.
Note: If you are creating an N PC who already has an occupa­
tion, skip this table and go on to Table 1078.

Table 107B: Noteworthy Items Instructions: Roll ad3 once. Theresult is the number of rolls to
make for Noteworthy Items about the Parents or N PC. Roll a d20
For Parents and other important NPCs, this table determines for each item, match the result on the table below, and record any
the number of unusual events that have already taken place in their important information about parents in area 107 of the character
lives-the things they are best known for. These are the NPC's history worksheet (use back of sheet if necessary}.
most outstanding features. Most features will either be readily For Parents/Guardians Only: For each Noteworthy Item,
apparent upon encountering the NPC or upon getting to know him roll both a d20 and a d6. The d20 indicates the entry in the table.
better. The d6 determines to which parent (or guardian) the selected entry
For parents and guardians, this table determines the number applies.'A d6 result of 1-4 indicates the head of the household. A
of things that a character remembers about the person or persons result of 5-6 indicates the entry applies to the other parent (or

_,,
who raised and reared him through childhood or the things that guardian). If only one parent (or guardian} is alive, then the results
those persons did or became that will eventually affect or involve are all applied to that parent. If an orphanage is being rolled for, the
the character. For the most part, these things will be applied to the results are applied to the head master or head mistress of the
head of the household. orphanage.
107: Parents & NPCs 32 107: Parents & NPCs, 20

d20 107B: Noteworthy Items (roll a d20) d20 107B:Noteworthy Items (continued ... )
1 NPC is noted for an outstanding aspect of his personality. 13 NPC is noted for and hesitant to speak of something that
Roll a d8 on the subtable below to select this noted trait. occurred. Roll a d4 on the subtable below to find the situation.
1-2 Noted for a Lightside personality trait. Select trait on 1 NPC is famous for the occurrence of a Significant
Table 641A: Ughtside Traits. Event, possibly even a hero. Determine what took place
3-5 Noted for a Lightside personality trait. Select trait on on Table 211: Significant Events of Adulthood.
Table 6418: Neutral Traits. 2 NPC is persecuted or villainized for the occurrence of
6-7 Noted for a Darkside personality trait. Select trait on an event. Determine what took place on Table 211:
Table 641C: Darkside Traits. Significant Events of Adulthood.
8 Noted for an exotic personality trait. Select trait on 3 NPC is important in home village/town/city, not just
Table 642: Exotic Personality Traits. another face in the crowd.
4 NPC won't speak of something that occurred in the
2 NPC had 1d3 unusual birth circumstances. Select them on past. GM ONLV: Determine what took place on Table
Table 106: Unusual Births. 211: Significant Events of Adulthood.
3 Devotes time to a hobby. Go to Table 419: Hobbies to 14 NPC's relationship with his family involves one of the follow­
determine the hobby and the degree of interest in it. ing. Roll a d4 on the subtable below. e
4 NPC possesses an unusual item. Select the item on Table 1 NPC is particularly loving towards family. n
853: Gifts and Legacies. 2 NPC does not love family or children.
3 NPC is unfaithful to spouse.
5 NPC is noted for his appearance. Select 1d3 additional 4 NPC has married more than once, current spouse is
appearance items on Table 861: Appearances. number (roll 1 d4).
6 NPC was affected by an exotic event which is spoken of 16 NPC was originally of a different Social Status. Go to Table
often. Go to Table 536: Exotic Events to find what occurred. 103: Social Status to select the former social standing.
7 NPC is noted for an unusual ability or physical feature. 17 NPC is from a foreign place (1%chance its another world).
Select this oddity on Table 858: Exotic Features.
18 NPC has made friends and/or enemies. Roll a d6 once on
8 NPC has an obsession regarding something that had hap­ the subtable below.
pened (or might happen), something that dominates the rest of 1 NPC has a Rival. Go to Table 751: Rivals to select the
his life. Roll a d6 on the following table to determine the focus of antagonist. If the NPC is the character's parent or
the obsession: guardian, roll a d6 on a result of 5-6, the Rival also
1 A relationship with someone. Go to Table 743: Others includes and seeks out the character.
to determine the person. 2 NPC has many enemies. Roll 1d10+2 to determine the
2 A significant event from the past. On Table 208: Signifi­ number. Goto Table 751: Rivals to determine these an­
cant Events of Youth, determine what happened. tagonists. If the NPC is the character's parent or guard­
3 The working out of a personality trait. Roll a d6. On a ian, roll a d6 on a result of 5-6, the rivals also include and
result of 1-2, go to Table 641A: Ughtside Traits to deter­ seek out the character.
mine this trait. On a result of 3-4, go to Table 6418: 3 NPC has many close friends (Roll 1d10+2 for their num­
Neutral Traitsto determine this trait. On a result of 5-6, ber). These folks usually dwell in the NPC's home town.
go to Table 6418: Darkside Traitsto determine this trait. If the NPC is the character's parent or guardian, they
4 The accomplishment of a motivation. Goto Motivations are known as "uncle" or "auntie." Because they are like
on page 1 o to determine this goal. family, they may be relied on for aid in times of trouble.
5 Accomplishing a future event. On Table 211: Significant Determine backgrounds for these folks only as needed.
Events of Adulthood, determine what the NPC seeks to 4 NPC has 1d6+1 jilted ex-lovers (most are still angry!).
have occur. 5 NPC had a companion. Select the companion on Table
6 Preventing a future event. On Table 211: Significant 750: Companions. If the character searches long
Events of Adulthood, find what the NPC seeks to stop. enough, the old companion can be found.
9 NPC has a secret identity. Select the Social Status (Table 6 NPC is/was a member of an organization. Select the
103) and occupation (as appropriate to Culture, see previous type of organization on Table 735: In the Service of ...
page) for the other identity. Members of that organization remember the NPC.
7 NPC has a dangerous enemy. Select the enemy on
10 NPC has a patron. Determine the details about this service Table 752: Villains. If the N PC is the character's parent
relationship on Table 535: In the Service of... or guardian, roll a d6 on a result of 5-6, the enemy also
11 NPC is a military veteran. Select the branch of service on includes and seeks out the character.
Table 529: Military Duties. 8 Roll twice more on this subtable, rerolling duplicates.
12 NPC is very religious and constantly seeks to evangelize 19 NPC was horribly injured once. Select the type of injury on
others to join his religion, faith, or cult. Select the religion wor­ Table 859: Serious Wounds.
shipped on Table 533A: Religions. 20 NPC is noted for an extremely unusual personality. Select
15 NPC was originally from a different culture. Determine ori­ 1d3 exotic personality traits on Table 642: Exotic Personality
ginal home Culture on Table 102:8 Culture. Traits and link them together in some way. Togehter, they should
make the NPC character even stranger, possibly a real weirdo.

H From Here- Go on to Table 208: Significant Events of Youth ...

11
 208 �

Significant c/?✓J,

Events ofYouthc,-,.
ld20 208: Events (Roll a d20 + SolMod )
1 All public assistance is terminated because of an ex­
tended, politically charged international war. All able-bodied
men are drafted into military service. This causes bloody riots
In a sense, this is where the action begins. These are the
in the poorer sectors. The character's family is very much
events that occur during the character's "growing" years, the
memories from childhood, the activities of adolescence. involved in these uprisings. [R]
2 While foraging in a trash heap, the character finds an
Instructions: Use this table twice. The first time, use the unusual object. Select from Table 853: Gifts and Legacies. [L]
table to select events that occur during the character's childhood,
age 1 through 12 for a human or use an appropriate age range for 3 Character skips school too many times. Subtract 1d4
an alien race(see "Age" below and also on page 5). The second Education points from his Education point total. [D]
lime, use it to select events that take place during the character's
adolescent years, age 13 through 18 (for humans). 4 Character's friends involve him in illegal activities. Go to
To find the number of significant events that occur during child­ Table 526: Underworld Events and follow the directions [D].
hood, roll a d3. For adolescence, do the same. For each event, roll 5 A Fateful event! Roll for Hi-Lo on the subtable below.
a d20 and add the character's SolModto the result (Noble char­ Hi A Tragedy Occurs. Determine what happens on
acters: double-check to see if 5 has been added to the So/Mod). Table 520: Tragedies. [R]
For each roll, match the result against the table and record the Lo Something Wonderful occurs. Determine what hap-
event in the EVENTS section of the worksheet. Many events pens on Table 521: Something Wonderful... [L]
require additional rolls on other tables. If you are asked to use
another table, go to that table, follow it's instructions, record 6 Character has an odd experience - wherever he goes,
relevant information, then return here until all rolls here are com­ people know him. Even strangers greet him warmly, although
he's never met them. [R]
plete. For each event you must determine the age at which it
occurs (see "Age" below) and record how it will eventually affect 7 Learn an Unusual Skill from Table 863: Unusual Skills.
the character's personality (see "Developing a Personality" be­
8 A special age-specific event occurs. If the character is
low). From here, continue on to Table 210: Education.
currently a child, select event on Table 209A: Special Events of
Age: You must determine WHEN each event happens. For Childhood. If the character is currently an adolescent, select the
human childhood, roll a d12 (for ages 1 to 12). For adolescence, event on Table 2098: Special Events of Adolescence.
roll a d6 and add the result to 12 to obtain an age from 13 to 18.
For alien characters, you may have to make your own scale. 9 Learn head of household's occupation to Rank 2 compe­
tency. If no head, use patron, or random selection from Table
Developing a Personality: As a character grows, his 413A: Occupations. [NJ
personality takes shape. Many events that occur in a character's
life also cause her personality to develop. Personality traits shape 10 Character runs away from home ... Roll a d6 on the
the way she acts or responds later in life. Some of these traits are subtable below to select the events which then occur. [R]
beneficial or Lightside traits; others are considered harmful or 1 ... and has never returned. Her family still wants her
Darkside traits; and still others are neutral. Most of the events on back.
the Significant Event Tables ( Tables 208, 209, and 211) are 2 ... but returns after (Roll for Hi/Lo) Hi= 2d100 days. Lo
followed by a letter in brackets. This letter represents the type of = 1d6 years.
personality trait that develops because of the event. An [L] means 3 ... and is never reported missing. Maybe the authorities
a Lightside trait. A [D] means a Darkside trait. An [NJ means a are hiding something. Maybe only the GM knows. GM
Neutral trait and an [R] means that the trait, will be selected by a Only: see Table 965: GM's Specials, entry #208A/B.
later die roll on Table 312A: Personality Trait Check. Each time you 4 ... and falls into the hands of criminals. Select events
select an Event followed by a letter in brackets, also record it's that occur on Table 526: Underworld Events [D].
corresponding letter in the brackets to the left of the Event lines. 5 ... and wanders the country, living by wits. Survival
When you get to Table 312: Alignment & Attitude, the instructions skills improve by three Ranks - your choice of
there will tell you what to do with the letters. environment(s). [NJ
6 ... and is "kidnapped" by a cult. After the chara<::ter
Roleplay: By the time a character reaches adulthood, his escapes in 1d4 years, the deprogramming causes him
personality has already been determined for the good or the bad to develop an odd quirk. Use Table 642: Exotic Person-
by the events of childhood. Maturity may refine the character, but ,

n
ality Traits to determine
rarely does it significantly change his attitudes. the quirk. [D] Continued ... �

Table 208 continues on the next page ...

11
208: Significant Events of Youth 34 208: Significant Events of Youth

ld20208: Events (continued ... ) ld20208: Events (continued ... )

11 Character has a religious experience. Determine the de- 17 Character serves a Patron or Sponsor. Determine the i
tails on Table 537: Religion. [RJ details on Table 535: In the Service of... [NJ
12 Family has the following attitudes towards the character. 18 Gain a friend. Select friend from Table 743: Others. [LJ
I
Roll a d6 once on the subtable below. t
19 A special age-specific event occurs. If the character is I
1 Character is loved by parents or guardians. [LJ currently a child, select event on Table 209A: Special Events of
2 Character is unloved. [DJ Childhood. If the character is currently an adolescent, select the
3 Family has great plans for character's future and expects event on Table 2098: Special Events of Adolescence.
character to fulfill those plans. [RJ
4 Family does not approve of character's friends. [RJ 20 Roll again, add 2 to the die roll, but DO NOT add in the
5 Family encourages character's interests. [LJ character's So/Mod.
6 One parent is distant and cold towards the character. 21 Character becomes hooked on collecting something, and
Roll for Hi-Lo. Hi = mother. Lo= father. [DJ spends 20% of his allowancetwages on it, whether it's profitable
13 Something good happens to the character. Roll a d4 on the or not. [RJ
subtable below to select the event. [LJ 22 Character has an exciting and possibly weird adventure (or
1 The character inherits a large sum of money-10 times misadventure). Select details on one of the following Events
what the character's normal starting money would be. Tables by rolling a d8: [RJ
2 A mysterious, but benevolent stranger rewards the
character for a selfless deed. The character receives
1 Table 523: Horror 6 Tat)fe 524: Espionage
2 Table 522: Superhero 7 Table.525: Pulp Hero
t
part (only part) of a brittle map, and is told that the other I
3 Table 537: Magical 8 Table 536: Exotic
half of that map was given to another kind person. 4-5 Reroll twice on this table, combining the results from the
3 Something Wonderful Occurs. Determine what happens different tables.
on Table 521: Something Wonderful...
4 The character acquires a Companion. Go to Table 750: 23 The character has a crush on her teacher. Roll a d6, and
Companions, to work out the details. on a "6", the teacher is beginning to return t� character's
attention (this is generally not a good thing to have �appen). [RJ
14 Something bad happens to the character. Roll a d4 on the
subtable below to select the event. [DJ 24 A special age-specific event occurs. If the �haracter is
1 Character is sexually molested by an adult. On Table currently a child, select the event on Table 209A: Special Events
743: Others, to determine who did this terrible thing. of Childhood. If the character is currently an adolescent, select
2 A Tragedy Occurs. Determine what happens on Table the event on Table 2098: Special Events of Adolescence.
520: Tragedies. 25 Roll for Hi/Lo. If Hi, then reroll on this table and add 5 to the
3 Character teases and angers an old man who allegedly result (scores over 35 are treated as 35). If Lo, reroll on this table,
puts a "curse" on him. Whether truly cursed or not, he but do not add in So/Mod.
finds that his skill use rolls are 5% harder to make.
4 Character acquires a Rival. Go to Table 751: Rivals, to 26 Wealth has its privileges. Roll on Table 854: Perks & Stuff.
work out the details. 27 Character is betrothed in a "business" marriage to be
15 A change or upheaval occurs in the character's family. Roll consummated upon reaching age of majority (aboutthe time that
a d6 on the subtable below to select this change or changes. a character would begin adventuring). The character's future
Note: Roll all subsequent events using new CuMod or So/Mod. mate lives in a financially wealthy, but politically dead country
Example: if selecting Childhood Events, then the new Modifier that few have heard of. [DJ
will affect Adolescent Events. [RJ
28 Head of household secures an admired political position.
1 Character changes Culture Level. Reroll Culture Level Add 1d3 points to the character's So/Mod (up to 15). [NJ
on Table 1028: Culture.
2 Character changes Social Status. Reroll Social Status 29 Family arranges admittance to prestigious military acad­
on Table 103: Social Status. emy. Upon reaching adulthood, character automatically enters
3 Character changes locale. Roll a d1Oto determine the the military as an officer with a Rank equivalent of 13. See Table
relative distance of the move. A result of 1 is within the 527: Military Events. [LJ
same town, a result of 10 might mean a move to a 30 Family throws an extravagant birthday party for the char­
FOREIGN country. Determine country on Table 101A: acter. Everyone who is anyone attends. When all the gifts are
Country of Origin. recorded, one unusual gift stands alone with no card to saywhere
4 The head of the household changes occupations. Reroll it came from. Select it on Table 853: Gifts and Legacies. [RJ
the occupation on Table 413: Occupations.
5 Character's parents split up. Roll Hi/Lo to see who the 31 Family gives character some luxury transportation. Select
character goes with. Hi= mother. Lo= father. Roll d6 for details regarding this vehicle on Table 8640: Cars, and add +5
each parent. On a result of 1-4, parent remarries within to the roll. [R]
1d3 years. If not, subtract 1d5 points from the character's 32 Character exhibits symptoms of an exotic personality.
Sol Mod (but never to less than 0). Select trait from Table 642: Exotic Personality Traits.
6 Roll twice more on this subtable. These changes all
occur at the same time. Reroll duplicates. 33�35 Character receives an estate with 1d10 square miles of
16 1 d3 more Significant Events occur during this time. property. [NJ

11 From Here- Continue on to Table 210: Education . . .

11
209: Special Events of Youth

209:
Special Events
ofYouth
l[ -J •.
Use only if directed here by another table ;,
·"Don't worry, chief. I think we got the right one this time."

The events on these two tables occur only during specific childhood, roll 2d20 and match the result against Table209A. To
age periods, either childhood or adolescence. They are occur­ select a Special Event occurring during adolescence, roll 2d20 and
rences that might happen at one age, but not the other. match the result against Table 2098. Return to the table that sent
you here when you have selected an event.
Instructions: To select a Special Event occurring during

2d20 209A: Childhood Events (roll 2d20) 2d20 209A: Childhood Events (continued ...)
2 A relative severely batters and abuses the character, but a 11 Character is a child prodigy at an unusual skill (at Rank4).
concerned neighbor rescues her from certain death. The relative Select the skill on Table863: Unusual Skills. Regardless of his
is accused, convicted and imprisoned for the crime. The charac­ skill, the character hates to do this (even as an adult!).
ter has not seen the relative since the last day of the trial. Select
the relative on Table 1040: Other Relations. [D] 12-13 In order to impress friends (specifically, that new girl/
boy friend), the character learns a basic sport, and becomes pro­
3 Character becomes emotionally attached to a simple, lov­ ficient to Rank 2. Let the sport be one that is common to the
able toy and cannot bear to be parted from it for 2d10 years. [R] character's cultural background.
4-5 Character has a collection of related things, like posable 14-15 The character is set apart from his peers by a size
figures, stuffed animals, favorite books, or small knick-knacks. disparity. Select the variation on the chart below by rolling a d6.
6-7 Character has a close friendship with a sibling (or a cousin 1 Character is 25% taller than average.
if no siblings exist). Sibling is either next oldest or next youngest 2 Character is 25% shorter than average.
in relation to the character, and is often sought for advice. [L] 3 Character is 25% thinner than average.
4 Character is 25% heavier than average.
8 Character's best friend is a family pet. Roll a d6. On a result 5 Character is an additional 15% away from the average.
of 6, the faithful animal becomes his companion. Roll again to find out in what dimension.
9 Baby-sitters are such an influence on developing children. 6 A painfully obvious disparity-roll twice more and
Roll a d4 on the table below to find out what kind of baby-sitter the combine the size differences. (Ignore further rolls of "6")
character's parents saddled her with. Then roll Hi/Lo for Male/ 16 While playing in an abandoned building, the character
Female. [NJ witnesses a crime being committed by 1d4 persons. The perpe­
1 The Dictator. Rules with an iron rod-if the sitter can trators (the criminals) see the character, but are unable to catch
catch her charges. Add+1 to character's Constitution. him. It may be possible that these criminals still seek the
2 The Big Brother/Sister. He wishes he had his own character even now. Select the crime on Table862: Crimes. [R]
younger sibling-so he pases on all their hints and "help­
ful" tips to the character. Add+ 1 to character's Charisma. 17 The character becomes well-known, even famous for the
occurrence of an event in her life. Reroll the event on Table208:
3 The Clueless. "Oh, the kids are around here some­ Significant Events of Youth. [R]
where." This baby-sitter makes random checks, but doesn't
pay close attention. The character can get away with 18 One of the character's grandparents dies of natural causes
murder if she is quick enough. Add+1 to her Dexterity. in the presence of the character. Roll a d1O. On a result of 8-1 O,
4 The Teacher. Likes to interact with the character and his the grandparent entrusts the character with a secret.Consult
siblings (if any), and even likes to TALK to the character Table539: Death of a Loved One. Note: the GM should create
(snotty little kid that he is). Usually manages to educate some piece of information that has been kept from the character
him without him realizing it. Add +1 to the character's until now. [R]
intelligence attribute.
19-21 A genre specific event occurs. Select the genre most
10 The character and a friend discover a secret hiding place appropriate to your game and then roll on one of the following
near his home. The hiding place remains undiscovered and tables: Table522: Superhero Events, Table523: Horror Events,
undisturbed at least until he becomes an adult when the friend's Tatl'e 524: Espionage Events,
body is found mysteriously dead in the hide out. [R] or Table525: Pulp Hero Events. Continued ... �

11 Table 209A continues on the next page ...

11
209: Special Events of Youth 36 209: Special Events of Youth

2d20 209A: Childhood Events (continued ...) 2d20 209A: Childhood Events (continued ...)
22 A friend of the family, an old government agent, tells the 32-33 The character acquires a hobby. Select the type of
character grand tales of adventure and daring do. [L] hobby on Table 419: Hobbies (record in the SKILLS section).
23 An Exotic Event occurs. Select the event on Table 540: 34 The young character is caught playing "doctor" by one of
Exotic Events. [R] the parents. Roll Hi/Lo on the subtable below for what happens.
24 A Fateful event occurs on the same day as the character's Hi The parent calmly handled the issue and explained
birthday. Roll for Hi/Lo on the subtable below. things. As a result, the character becomes a stable,
Hi A Tragedy Occurs. Determine what happens on Table sound individual, and will NEVER develop an exotic
520: Tragedies. [R] personality trait. Reroll (using Hi/Lo) any previous rolls on
Lo Something Wonderful Occurs. Determine what hap- the table that sent you to Table 642: Exotic Personality
pens on Table 521: Something Wonderful... [L] Traits as: Hi = Lightside or Lo = Neutral traits. [L}
Lo The character is punished soundly for being indecent.
25 As a result of being left alone for too long with an under­ From this traumatic experience, she develops an exotic
developed but overactive imagination, the character develops a personality trait. Go to Table 642F: Sexual Perversions
phobia. Select the phobia on Table 642G: Phobias, then write a for more details (and some explanations). [D]
brief story about how the fear was acquired. [D] 35 The character takes an uncommon interest in world affairs.
26-27 An event that would normally affect an adolescent She receives some attention for her perceptive (for her age)
occurs now. Reroll this event on Table 2098: Special Events of letters to the editor of the local paper. One of the letters is actually
Adolescence. sent to the relevant group, and the character receives both
28-29 When the character was little, he had an "imaginary" national and international acclaim. [N]
friend. Roll a d20 and consult the following table. [L] 36-38 Sickness is a rite of passage for childhood, and the
1-10 Eventually the imaginary friend justfaded away, leav- character has met his allotted requirement. Roll a d6 on the next
ing the character with fond memories. chart to find out why he ended up in the hospital this time. [R]
11-15 The friend still visits the character's dreams. 1-2 Broken bone. Roll on Table 857: Body Locations.
16-18 Character still talks to the friend as if he were there. 3-4 Stubborn infection. Select one of the basic childhood
19 The imaginary friend wasn't so imaginary. He can call contagions. The character is now immune to it.
the friend up and actively talk to it, though no one else 5 Bad accident. Roll on Table 859: Serious Wounds.
will be able to see it. The friend can provide insights 6 Disease. Finally cured, but she spends 1d1o years
(hints from the GM) about problems at hand due to his fighting it, 1d4 years in the hospital (total), and makes
unique view of the situation. 1d3 fast friends.
20 Like "19," the friend is real, but NOT under character
control. He can be a help, but usually he's just a pain 39 An unfortunate kitchen accident leaves the character with
in the neck. severe chemical burns, both internal and external. Subtract 5
from his Appearance attribute. Unknown to any, but the charac­
30 The character and her best friend develop a secret lan­ ter, however, the strange combination of gases seemed to
guage at Rank 3. No one else understands it and both of them awaken something within the child. Make two rolls, one on Table
still remember it. [L] 858: Exotic Features, and one on Table 860: Psychic Powers. [R]
31 For 2d1O years, terrible nightmares cause the character to 40 The many family vacations have encouraged a short and
wake up screaming and crying. Select the nature of the night­ sharp attention span. Due to constant zipping around, the char­
mare on Table 748: Horrors(and praythey never come true). [D] acter is at -2 to any skill that requires not moving (like hiding or
sitting through a speech), but receives +2 to the skills of obser­
vation or perception.

2d20 209B: Adolescence Events (roll 2d20) 2d20 209B: Adolescence Events (continued ... )
2-4 Dedication to studies earns the character a scholarship 9 Through sheer force of will, the character discards one
and 1d8 additional education points (line 102 of worksheet). character trait and begins to practice it's opposite. Make note of
5 To be fashionable, avant garde young people tattoo their this, then make the change when traits are selected on Table
bodies. The character is tattooed with an unusual marking. Select 312: Alignment. Player may choose which trait to change.
the type of tattoo on Table 856: Birthmarks. Select a location on 10 The character becomes proficient (Rank 4) at a sport not
Table 857: Body Locations. common to his cultural background, like maybe an American
6 As a part of a cultural exchange program, the character rugby player or a Norwegian sumo wrestler. This proficiency
lives with a family in a developing country. While there, the air earns the character an athletic scholarship (to a truly unusual
makes him feel strange. Nothing seems to come of it until he college) and 1d8 more education points.
returns home, and begins to notice changes. Roll on Table 858: 11-14 A genre specific event occurs [R]. Select the genre most
Exotic Features to determine what his adventure did to him. [N] appropriate to your game system: Table 522: Superhero Events,
7-8 Character has an encounter with religion. Determine the Tatile 523: Horror Events, Table 524: Espionage
details on Table 537: Religion. Events, or Table 525: Pulp Hero Events. coninue 1. d ... � 11Y;s;::>

11 Table 209B continues on the next page . . ..

11
209: Special Events of Youth 37 209: Special Events of Youth

2d20 209B: Adolescence Events (continued ... ) 2d20 209B: Adolescence Events (continued ... )
15 The character befriends an elderly neighbor, who in turn 28 A beginning character is olderthan normal when he begins
teaches her an unusual skill. Select the skill (and skill Rank) on his adventuring career. Roll a d6. Add the result to 18. A
Table 863: Unusual Skills. The neighbor is actually a master of beginning character will be at least this old before beginning an
Legendary skill (Rank 1O) who has fallen on hard times. Record adventuring career. On Table 211: Significant Events of Adult­
the skill in the SKILLS section of the worksheet [RJ. hood the character will need to make 1d3 event rolls (instead of
the usual one roll) to determine what happens to him after he
16-17 The character acquires a hobby. Select the type of reaches Adulthood.
hobby on Table 419: Hobbies. Through the hobby, he makes
friends with 3d6 other hobbyists in 1d6 other countries. Many of 29 A genre-specific event occurs, but not necessarily fromthe
these friends become important people on their home countries character's own genre. Roll a d4 on the subtable below to select
and makes good contacts later in life. the select the event table to be used. [RJ
18 The character attends a specialized school based on pro­ 11 1 Table 522: Superhero 3 Table 523: Horror
ven aptitudes. Roll a dB to elect the aptitude on the table 2 Table 524: Espionage 4 Table 525: Pulp Hero
below.The character receives rank 4 in one related area. 30 Character develops jaded tastes for exotic and possibly
11 1 Fine Art 5 Technical 4 Acting 7 Writing expensive pleasures. Roll a d6. On a result of 5-6, those pleas­
2 Computers 6 Singing 3 Dance 8 Mechanical ures are also quite illegal. [DJ
19 Character is stereotyped by his peers. Even if he is nothing 31-34 The character has finally given in and found a job.
like the name, that is how others chose to see him then. Roll a d12 Select it on Table 413:Occupations. Roll 2d20-this is the num­
to choose stereotype on the table below. Former classmates still ber of months she stays at this job. For each full 1O months, give
see him this way. [DJ the character 1 Rank of skill in an aspect of the job. If she rolls only
1 Airhead 7 "Easy" 2 months, roll a d4. On a result of 4, the character was fired, and
2 Headbanger 8 Party Animal has trouble getting future jobs (ignore future rolls of 31-34).
3 Nerd/Wimp 9 Teacher's Pet 35 The neighborhood gets rough. The character is stopped by
4 Goody-Two Shoes 10 Spoiled Brat a gang that "runs" the area. They want her to join, or run "mer­
5 "Brain" 11 Shredder (Rad Skateboarder) chandise" for them-no other options. She refuses and is there­
6 Punk 12 Fattie/Porko after attacked whenever gang members see her. During one
20-21 The character has a romantic encounter. Go to Table attack, another gang refugee rescues her. They are the nearly
534: Ah Love! to determine the details of his romance. If the the same age, and decide to stick it out together. The rescuer and
character is not yet 16 years of age, results that indicate marriage the character are inseparable. Use Table 750: Companions to
are optional events, at the player's (or GM's) discretion. [RJ create this new friend. [LJ
22-23 Due to intense interest and involvement in extra-cur­ 36-37 The character becomes involved in some aspect of the
ricular activities at school, he may choose 1d4 skills at d2 rank community. Roll a d4 on the subtable below. [NJ
ability. The skills are limited to those available in school clubs and 1 Political. The character takes an active interest in both
organizations like the drama club, the biology club, choir, etc. [LJ local and national government affairs. One day while
24 The character learns to speak a foreign language at 1d3 distributing fliers, something happened. Select the event
on Table 524: Espionage Events.
Ranks of competency. Decide what language is learned by using 2 Community-Oriented. The character donates his time
Table 101A: Country of Origin. to community re-construction and well-being, like clean­
25 An exotic event occurs while the character is out on a date ing parks, or helping at the food shelter. While restoring
with a sweetheart. Select the event on Table 540: Exotic Events. an old historic site, he stumbles across an object from
The event has a significant impact on the character's social life. Table 853: Gifts & Legacies.
Roll a d6 and match the result against the subtable below: [RJ 3 Environmental. The character seeks to protect the
1-2 Character becomes extremely popular and has a earth from further abuse. While out doing a pollution
romance (select details on Table 534: Ah Love.�. check, she becomes lost and winds up in a remote area.
3-4 Character becomes unpopular. If currently involved in Go to Table 537:Magical Eventsto find out what she en­
a romance, the beloved ends it and immediately be­ counters there.
comes romantically involved with the character's Rival 4 Humane. The character loves animals, and volunteers
(if the character didn't have a Rival before, he/she has at the local animal shelter. The character is the first one
one now - select the Rival on Table 751: Rivals). to work one morning and finds a box on the doorstep.
5-6 Other than the character, no one makes a big deal Use Table 749: Unusual Pets to discover the contents
about what happened, or indeed, even really noticed it. of the noteless package.
26-27 A Fateful event occurs. Roll a d6 on the subtable below. 38 The character becomes well-known, even famous for the
1-2 A Tragedy occurs. Determine what happens on Table occurrence of an event in his life. Reroll the event on Table 208:
520: Tragedies. [RJ Significant Events of Youth. [NJ
3-4 Something Wonderful occurs. Determine what hap­ 39-40 Character buys a vehicle! Go to Table 864: Vehicles
pens on Table 521: Something Wonderful ... [LJ and follow the instructions there, modifying ALL rolls by a -5 (In
5-6 Conflicting event, both a tragedy and something good addi\ion to any other possible modifiers). Character now has his

n
take place. Select what happens on Table 520: Trage­ starting money cut in half. [NJ
dies and Table 521: Something Wonderful... [RJ

From Here - Return to the Table that sent you here ...
11
 GOOD MOR
210: Education 38 CLA77.., W 210: Education
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Education
The focus of modern education is to prepare a person to be
a contributing member of his society. Beginning with a broad
background of basic skills and knowledge, each per�on is taught _
an increasingly large body of knowledge about an increasingly cost guidelines given above, he may select skills on Table 863:
limited area of study. By the time hER education is complete, She Unusual Skills.
is a specialist, a master of a limited area of skill or thought, able to Roleplay: Consider the amount and type of education the
step without faltering into the flow of society (in theory). character has had when roleplaying him. Does he have an interest
Central Casting makes three assumptions about education. in learning more? Does he feel his time spent in school was well
First it is freely available (though not necessarily free) to all char­ spent or wasted? How might his education or lack of it affect his
acte�. so long as the character shows aptitude for improvement. mannerisms? The player of an under-educated character may
Second, moneytalks, so even those without aptitude are provided have to pretend she doesn't know things that her character would
with more and better training because of their social standing. And not or could not know. The player of a highly educated character
third, education is ultimately job oriented-it teaches a character may need prompting from the GM in areas in which his character
his future occupation. is expected to have extensive personal knowledge.
Instructions: Table 102A: Culture provided the character
with a base number of Education Points. Table 103:Social Status
should have modified those points based on the character's Social ld4/ld10 210: Education
Status. One or more significant events may have modified the (Roll a d4 & dlO + SolMod+ CuMod)
number of points even further. These points will be used later on.
Meanwhile, follow the steps below: 10-14 No Formal Education. Select the character's occupa­
tion on Table 4138: Occupation Table I.
One: Select an Education. Roll a d4 and a d10 at the same 15-19 Limited Education. Select the character's occupation
time. The results are not added, but are read like a two-digit num­ on Table 4138: Occupation Table I.
ber. The d4 result is always the first or "1O's" digit. The d10 result 20-22 Poor Education. Select the character's occupation on
is always the "1 's" digit. Example: A d4 result of 2 and a d10 result Table 4138: Occupation Table I. Give the character an
of o are read as a 20. Next, add both the character's SolModand additional 1d4 Education Points.
CuModto the die roll. Match the total against Table210:Education. 23-25 Trade School Education. Selectthe character's occu­
Two: Select an Occupation. Each education level tells you pation on Table 4138: Occupation Table I. Give the
which table to use when selecting the character's future occupa­ character an additional 3d4 Education Points.
tion. Select that occupation or occupations now. Make note of the 26-33 Typical Education. Select the character's occupation
skill cost multiplierfo r that occupation. The Base Cost Multiplier is on Table 413A: Occupation Selector. Give the charac­
given at the top of each occupation table and applies to all skills on ter an additional 2d4 Education Points.
that table (see the next step). 34 Military Academy. Select the character's branch of
Three: Buy Skill Ranks. Now you use those education points service and duties on Table 529A: Branch of Service.
to buy Ranks in the character's selected occupation. Up to six skill Next, go to Table531: Military Skills and select the char­
Ranks can be bought in any one occupation. The cost guidelines acter's skills. The character becomes a Rank 13 officer
apply to all occupations. Multiply the base cost for each skill Rank in his branch of the military (see Table 530: Military
by the occupation's Base Cost Multiplier (see step two above) to Rank for details). Finally, go to Table 527: Military
determine the cost in Education Points for each Rank of skill. Experience and select the events that affect the charac­
Skill Rank 1: Base cost is 1 Education Point. ter during his tour of duty. Give the character an
Skill Rank 2: Base cost is 3 Educations Points.t additional 1d4+4 Education Points.
Skill Rank 3: Base cost is 7 Education Points. t 35-36 Above Average Education. Select the character's
Skill Rank 4: Base cost is 15 Education Points.t occupation on Table413A: Occupation Selector. Reroll
Skill Rank 5: Base cost is 31 Education Points.t results of 5 or less. Give the character an additional
Skill Rank 6: Base cost is 63 Education Points.t 2d6+6 Education Points. Add 1d4 years to final Age.
37-38 Excellent Education. Select the character's occupa­
t This is the total Base cost to buy an occupation skill at this tion on Table413A: Occupation Selector. Reroll results
level. Muliply it by the occupation's Base Cost Multiplier for actual of 5 or less. Give the character an additional 2d6+12
cost. Examples: A Rank 4 skill as a factory worker would cost 15 Education Points. Add 1d4 years to final Age.
Education Points, while a Rank 4 medical doctor skill, with its 39-65 Outstanding Education. Select two occupations for
multiplier of 3 would cost a total of 45 points! the character on Table 413A: Occupation Selector.
\
Four: Use up Leftovers. If the character does not have Reroll results of 5 or less. Give character an additional
sufficient points to buy the next Rank of expertise in his occupation, 3d6+12 Education Points.Add 1d6 years to final Age.
he can spend those remaining points on unusual skills. Using the

11 From Here - Continue on to Table 211: Significant Events of Adulthood

11
211: Significant Events of Adulthood 39

211:
Significant
Events
of Adulthood
Before coming here, the character should have spent
whatever Education Points he had in order to learn an occupation.
Once a character reaches maturity, the events that affect her d4/dl0 211: Events (Roll a d4 & a dlO)
change. The character assumes greater responsibility for his life,
and to some extent, has more control over surrounding events, al­ 10 While exploring an unfamiliar area near his home, the
though usually not as much as he would like. This table is primarily character has an encounter with an unusual person, who, as far
used for player characters who do not begin adventuring immedi­ as the character can tell, has no home or family. The character
ately upon reaching adulthood. offers to help in any way he can. After partaking of a meal, a
bath, a hot drink, and a long nap the person disappears, leaving
Instructions: All player characters who are just beginning behind a note that simply says "Your kindness will be
their adventuring careers make one roll on this table. Older char­
remembered. GM Only: refer to entry #211 on Table #965:
acters (that is, anyone older than the minimum adult age) make GM's Specials. (LJ
1d3 rolls on this table. For each event, roll a d4 and a d1oat the
same time. The results are not added, but are read like a two-digit 11 Unable to earn a living at his chosen career, the
number. The d4 result is always the first or "1O's" digit. The d10 character learns a new occupation to Rank 2 ability. Select
result is always the "1 's" digit. Example: A d4 result of 2 and a d10 occupation on Table 413: Occupations, but do not add in
result of Oare read as a 20. Match the result againstthe table below So/Mod. [NJ
and record the event that occurs and any relevant information
12 Following a whirlwind romance, a fateful event (or cir­
given with it in the EVENTS section of the worksheet. As with cumstances resulting from it) ends that romance on the day the
earlier event tables, many events require additional rolls on other
character was to be married. Roll for Hi/Lo on the subtable
tables. If you are requested to use another table, go to the indicated below.
table and follow the instructions found there, record any relevant
information, then return to this table until all rolls on this table are Hi A Tragedy Occurs. Determine what happens on Table
complete. 520: Tragedies. (RJ
AGE NOTE: For each event you may select the age at which Lo Something Wonderful Occurs. Determine what hap-
� occurs, rather than roll dice to determine the age. pens on Table 521: Something Wonderful... [LJ
Developing a Personality: As discussed under Table 13 The character suddenly finds herself unable to prac­
208: Significant Events of Youth, events cause personality devel­ tice her current occupation. The character is able to go back to
opment. Most events on this table are followed by a letter enclosed college or a trade school and get training for a new career,
in brackets. This letter represents the type of personality trait that though not enough to truly excel at it. Give the character 1d6
develops because of the event. An [LJ means a Lightside trait. A education points and use Table 21O: Education to select a new
(DJ means a Darkside trait. An [NJ means a Neutral trait and an [RJ occupation. [RJ
means thatthe trait, if any will be selected by a later die roll on Table 14 The character joins the military. Go to Table 530: Mili­
312A: Personality Trait Check. tary Events to determine the details of his military career. Roll
Each time you select and record an Event also record its a d6 to select the character's reason for joining [RJ.
corresponding letter (if any) in the brackets to the left of the Event 1 Character was drafted during wartime.
lines. The instructions for Table 312: Alignment & Attitude will tell 2 Character patriotically volunteered to serve his country.
you what to do with the letters. 3 Character was rounded up by a press gang who needed
From here, go on to Table 312: Alignment and Attitude to make to meet a quota (this is not typical for U.S. military
final adjustments to the character's personality. recruiters, but might happen in other nations).
4 Character mistakenly thoughtthat she was applying for
some other government job.
Superheroes 5 Character was enticed by romantic visions of soldier­
If the character is a superhero, and has not yet determined ing, occupational training and post service benefits.
the origin of his or her super powers, then determine it now 6 Character was "at loose ends" and couldn't decide what
on Table 540: Secret Origins. , to do with her life. There's always the military, she

n
thought ...
Continued . . . �

11 Table 211 continues on the next page ...

 '
211: Significant Events of Adulthood 40 211: Significant Events of Adulthood

d4/d10 211: Adult Events (continued ... ) d4/d10 211: Adult Events (continued ...)
15 The character has a "close encounter"with one of the 19 Character serves a Sponsor or Patron. Determine the
great villains of his time. Whatever happens is not focused on the details on Table 535: In the Service of... [NJ.
character, but involves him as a bystander. Select details about 20 Character has a religious experience. Determine the
the Villain on Table 752: Villains. Roll a d6 on the subtable below details on Table 533: Religion [LJ.
for details. of the encounter. [RJ.
1 Villain publicly eliminates 1d6 rivals. 21 The character saves someone's life. This person be­
2 Villain was eating in a public place and invited the char­ comes the character's Companion. Select the Companion and
acter to join him. the Companion's sex and personality on Table 750: Companions
3 Villains rivals attempt to eliminate the Villain in a violent (using Tables 750A and 750G). If the person is of the opposite
and messy manner-1d6 bystanders are killed. The sex from the character, roll a d10. On a result of 1-5, the com­
character received a serious injury. Select injury on Table panion falls in love with the character. It is up to the player to
859: Serious Wounds. The Villain visits the character in determine if the character returns the feelings. [LJ
the hospital and apologizes. 22 The character changes jobs within his area of exper­
4 The character comes to realize that although she seems tise. The new job brings in 25% more money than most similar
to work for someone else, the Villain is her employer. positions and improves the character's skill in his profession by
5 The character discovers that one of his close friends is one Rank. [RJ
actually the Villain.
6 Roll two more times on this subtable, combining the 23 A game genre-specific event occurs. Select the event
events. on the table most appropriate for your game's genre
classification- Table 522: Superhero Events; Table 523: Horror
16 Character has wanderlust and decides to travel. Roll a Events; Table 524: Espionage Events; Table 525: Pulp Hero
d6 to determine the number of years spent travelling and add the Events; Table 526: Underworld Events [RJ
result to the age at which the character begins travelling. If the re­
sulting age exceeds the character's "final age," change the final 24 1d3 additional Significant Events occur.
age to the time when the character ceases his travels. Roll a dB 25 An Exotic Event affects the character. Select the event
on the subtable below to select the character's travels. [NJ on Table 536: Exotic Events. [LJ
1 Visit most of the major cities and towns in her home
country. Character becomes quite familiar with several 26 A genre-specific event occurs, but not necessarily one
unusual places that might be helpful in later life. from the character's current game genre. Roll a d6 on the
2 Sign on as a common seaman on a merchant freighter. subtable below to select the appropriate event table. [RJ
Gain Rank 2 skill as a sailor. 1 Table 522: Superhero Events
3 Work as a missionary in a nearby country. Character 2 Table 523: Horror Events
gains 1 Rank of skill in her highest Ranked skill. 3 Table 524: Espionage Events
4 Work as a relief worker in a famine-torn third world 4 Table 525: Pulp Hero Events
country. Roll a d6. On a result of 1, the character is 5 Table 526: Underworld Events
stricken by a disease that almost kills him, but in the 6 Table 537: Magical Events
end, adds 1d3 points to his Constitution attribute. On a 27 Something bad happens to the character. Roll a d3 on
result of 6, the character is stricken with a serious the subtable below to select the event. [DJ
disease that eventually removes 1d3 points from his
1 A Tragedy Occurs. Determine what happens on Table
Constitution attribute. 520: Tragedies.
5 Travel to a distant country and seethe sights. Character
2 A sudden mishap leaves the character severely injured.
becomes quite familiar with the country, its people and Select the injury on Table 859: Serious Wounds.
culture. She comes to consider it a second home, 3 Character acquires a Rival. Go to Table 751: Rivals, to
possibly even calling it home from that point on. work out the details.
6 Live oversees with a foreign family. Learn their lan­
4 Someone close to the character dies quite suddenly.
guage at Rank 3 ability. The character comes to treat Roll a d6 on the sub-subtable below, then go to Table
this family as if it were his own (Optional: create family 538: Death Situations to determine the cause of death
on Table 104: Birth & Family).
and to Table 539: Death of a Loved One to determine
7-8 Roll twice more on this subtable, discarding any con-
other events around the death.
flicting events (always discard the second roll).
1 Employer 5 Close friend
17 Learn an Unusual Skill. Select skill on Table 863: Unu- 2 Coworker 6 Neighbor
sual Skills. 3 Mentor
18 The character participates in a violent demonstration 4 Family member, select on Table 104D: Other
or rebellion against local authority. Roll a d10. If the result is 9 - Relations.
1o, the rebellion was successful and the local rulers deposed. 28 While travelling, the character catches an unpleasant
Any other result means that any known participants are officially disease. Though treatable, the treatment must be given once
outlawed and have a price on their head. Roll a d10 again if the every 6d6 hours. Without it, her Constitution attribute drops by
rebellion failed. If the result is less than 10, only a few close 1d3 points each day. Treatment costs 1d1Ox 10 dollars per dose
friends know of the character's participation. A result of 10 means and is not commonly available.
that the character is a wanted criminal. [RJ Continued ... �

Table 211 continues on the next page ...

11
211: Significant Events of Adulthood 41 211: Significant Events of Adulthood

d4/d10 211: Adult Events (continued ...) d4/d10 211: Adult Events (continued ...)
29 Something good happens to the character. Roll a d3 on 40 The character acquires a hobby. Select the type of
the subtable below to select the event [LJ. hobby on Table 419: Hobbies (record in the SKILLs section).
1 The character discovers a "wholesome" religion. Select 41 Character develops jaded tastes for exotic and possi­
the details on Table 533: Religion (rerolling events that bly expensive "pleasures." Roll a d6. On a result of 5-6, the
would indicate membership in an evil or occultic group). character is addicted to a "pleasure" (drugs, sex, etc.). (DJ
So long as the character's devotion to this religion
remains strong, he or she gains a +1 bonus to all skill 42 Character has a run-in with a government leader over
and attribute rolls. a point of law. Roll a d4 to determine the end result:
2 Something Wonderful Occurs. Determine what hap­ 1 The leader becomes a deadly enemy. See Table 751:
pens on Table 521: Something Wonderful... Rivals for details.
3 Character acquires a Companion. Go to Table 750: 2 The leader becomes a close friend.
Companions, to work out the details. 3 The leader becomes a rival. See Table 751: Rivals for
4 An accident leaves the character's face disfigured. details.
Under the care of a highly talented plastic surgeon, the 4 The leader becomes a patron. Select additional details
character's face is transformed. Though her new face is on Table 535: In the Service of ...
unlike her old, she has become more beautiful than 43 From a distant relative, the character inherits stock and
before. Add 1 d3 points to the character's Charisma or a seat on the board of directors of a powerful industrial corpora­
Appearance attribute. tion. The company is involved in military and commercial aircraft
30 The character becomes well-known, even famous for and vehicles, electronics, small arms, weapons systems, and
the occurrence of an event in his life. Reroll the event on Table war machines. Roll for Hi/Lo. Hi =the directors take an immediate
211: Significant Events of Adulthood [LJ. liking to the character and gift her with samples (GM discretion
31 The character has a group encounter. Select the type advised). Lo = the directors dislike this "outsider'' and seek to
of group encountered on Table 744:Other Groups, then roll a d6 either remove her from the board or "eliminate" her.
on the subtable below to determine what type of activity is 44 The character takes a much needed vacation aboard
occurring. a cruise ship. His shipboard successes at his favorite hobby (if
1 Two similar rival groups clash over their differences, with character has no preferred hobby, select a recreation from Table
the character caught in the middle. 419: Hobbies) draw attention to him. He is offered a contract
2 The character joins the group in their conflict with another doing this hobby professionally for 1d6 years. The character
dissimilar group. Select that other group on Table 744: accepts the job (add 1 Rank to the Hobby skill for each two full
Other Groups. years at the new job). (RJ
3 The character watches as angry members of the group
demolish a popular night club. Roll a d6. On a result of 6, 45 Roll 1d6. For beginning characters, add the result to
another bystander claims the character was a member of the character's "final" age. More Adult Events occur during this
that group too! time. Roll a d3 to determine the number of events. For NPCs
4 The character joins this group as a full member. whose age is already established, ignore the age change and just
5 The character is named an "enemy" by this group. The roll 1d3 additional events.
group begins an ongoing campaign of harassment and 46 Select the event on Table 2098: Special Events of
malign deeds. Adolescence.
6 The character finds this group to be a strong. They can be
counted on for future aid and welfare. 47 Character is selected to become a close advisor to a
local government leader. [N]
32 The character inherits property in another country from
a relative. Go to Table853:Gifts& Legacies, and roll a d20 on the 48 Character develops an exotic personality trait. Select
subtable below entry #14 to find the type of property inherited. the trait on Table 642:Exotic Personality Features.
33-36 The character has a romantic encounter. Go to Table 49 A radical change in the political and economic structure
534: Ah Love/to find the details of his romance. [RJ of the land instantly drops the character's Social Level to Poor
and strips him of all the benefit of Noble birth (if any) and wealth.
37 Character becomes involved in illegal activities. Select
whatoccurs on Table526:UnderworldEvents (begin with Table
526A) [DJ.
38 Learn to use an unusual weapon at Rank 3 proficiency.
The weapon is something alien to the character's Culture.
39 Character loses his job. Roll a d6 on the subtable below
to select the reason.
1 Fired for incompetence.
2 Laid off for lack of work to do.
3 Employer goes out of business.
4 Personal problems interfere with professionalism.
5 Long term recovery from an accident.
6 General economic failure, everyone's out of a job!
312: Alignment & Attitude 42 312: Alignment & Attitude

312: Record the name of the selected trait on a line in worksheet's

PERSONALITY section. To the left of each line are three columns
of boxes. Above the columns are the letters L, N, and D, corre­
sponding to the types of traits. Mark the box in the column that co­

Alignment &
rresponds to the type of trait recorded on that line. Repeat the steps
for each letter in brackets in the EVENTS section of the worksheet.
Second: Determine Personal Values. Use Tables 3128-D.

Attitude
Finally: Determine Alignment: Go to Table 312E: Alignment
to select the character's Alignment and Attitude.

To best roleplay a character, the player or GM needs to 312A: Personality Trait Types
have a feeling for that character's personality and an understand­ Instructions: Roll a d100 and match the result against
ing of his personal values. Alignment is a rough organization of a Table 312A. Go to the Table indicated by the die result.
character's values. Is the character's personality weightedtoward
predominantly acceptable behavior? Is it seriously flawed, or
possibly somewhere in between? Attitude refines this organization d100312A: Personality Trait Types
further, but still uses broad strokes. Building up and out from
alignment and attitude and personal values, the character's per­ 01-50 No Personality Trait Develops
sonality can be more finely developed and defined. This collection 51-65 Neutral Trait: use Table 6418: Neutral Traits
of tables is the final stop in creating a character. 66-80 Llghtside Trait: use Table 641A: Ughtside Traits
Table 641: Personality Traits gives a further discussion of 81-95 Darkside Trait: use Table 641G: Darkside Traits
Lightside and Darkside personalities. 96-100 Exotic Trait: use Table 642: Exotic Personality Traits.
Instructions: Follow the steps to develop the character's
personality. Record information about personality on the blank
lines in the PERSONALITY section of the character worksheet.
First: Select the Traits: While you were selecting events on
312B, C & D: Personal Values
Tables 208-210, you should have been writing the letters that fol­ These tables look at the people, things and concepts that are
lowed those events in the brackets next to the lines in the EVENTS of greatest value to the character. Other things on each table may
section of the character history worksheet (see Developing a hold some importance for the character, butthe selected things are
Personality under Table 208: Significant Events of Youth). The of paramount importance.
letters indicate the table to be used to select the personality trait
that develops. For each letter in brackets in the EVENTS section, Instructions: Follow these steps:
go to the table indicated by it (as shown below) and follow Step1: For each of these three tables (B, C, & D), roll a d20and
directions there to select the personality trait. match the result against the table
Llghtside trait. Use Table 641A: Lightside Traits Step 2: go to Table 312F: Trait Strength and select the relative
[L] importance attached to the valued thing.
[N] Neutral trait. Use Table 6418: Neutral Traits
[D] Darkside trait. Use Table 641G: Darkside Traits Step 3: Record these values and their strengths and any
[R] Randomly selected trait. Select on Table 312A: relationships between them on the worksheet under VALUES.
Personality Trait Types. Roleplay: Use these values as a guide for determining how
the character responds to his world. A character with a Driving
passion for Money may do nearly anything to obtain it. A character
Trait Strength (312F) who places a trivial value on his Friend (remember this is his
STRONGEST value for persons) will probably think even less of
This value represents the amount of influence the trait has anyone else. Assume that for anything valued Strongly or higher,
over the character's life. Trait Strength is measured on a scale the character will spend a great deal of time activities that either
of trivial to obsessive. Trait strength can increase as the player involve, care for, or protect the thing of value.
plays his character. How and when this occurs is left to the GM.
An obsession means that the character's life centers Table 312B: Most Valued Person
around the trait and he becomes frustrated, possibly even dan­
gerous if prevented from fulfilling his needs (see Table 6428: This is the one person (or person-like being) in the world whom
Mental Afflictions, entry #14 ). the character values the most.
Assign a relative strength value to each trait. If you wish to Roleplay: For 'real' people, the other people in their lives
use dice for this, roll a d100 on the chart below:
can be very important. This person selected here plays a key role
dlOO Strength dlOO Strength (cont.) in the characer's personality. She places a great deal of empha­
sis on their relationship, whether real, imagined or desired. Con­
01-10 Trivial 60-79 Strong sider how the character would react if the valued person died. What
11-29 Weak 80-94 Driving would happen if their relationship changed?
30-59 Average 95-00 Obsessive
\
For more information about Trait Strengths, see Table 642: Exotic
Personality Traits under Trait Control.

II 11
I

Table 312 continues on the next page ...

I
column totals (Lightside or Darkside) on the character's PERSON­
d20 312B: Most Valued Person (roll a d20) ALITY chart on the worksheet. The rationale is that devotion to
abstract beliefs tends to color the rest of a character's life, often
1 Mother 11 Politician over-riding positive or negative personality traits.
2 Father 12 Media celebrity Add the number of traits in each column of boxes in the
3 Parents 13 Sports hero PERSONALITY section of the worksheet and record the total
4 A sibling 14 Fictional Hero beneath each column.
5 A relative t 15 A writer Now, if the formula for the selected abstraction says "L" plus a
6 Family 16 A musician number, add that number to the character's Lightside trait column.
7 Friend 17 God If the formula says "D" plus a number, add that number to the
8 Lover 18 A religious leader character's Darkside trait column. If the formula says "N" minus a
9 One's self 19 Child or Children number, subtract that value from whichevercolumn has the largest
10 A Pet 20 Teacher or professor total value (Example: if the character's Lightside traits add up to a
t Select on on Table 1040: Other Relations. greater value than the Darkside, subtract it from the Lightside
traits). If both Darkside and Lightside columns are equal, then DO
NOT subtract the number.
Table 312C: Most Valued Thing Roleplay: One can assume that given the choice, the char­
The first thing to note is that these are not necessarily things acter will spend most of his or her time in some kind of activity in­
that the character owns. A military pilot or ship's captain can place volving this abstraction. A scientist might spend his life questing for
a great deal of value on his craft-even though another owns it. knowledge. Someone else might waste their life seeking love, but
Second, many items are valued for sentimental or symbolic never realize when they have found it. Consider whether or not a
reasons. A book might have been a gift from a friend or relative, character would be willing to die in defense of this ideal. Would he
while a cross symbolizes a character's relationship with Christ. be willing to die in order for someone else to benefit from it?
Roleplay: In roleplaying, it's quite common to define a char­
acter in terms of her "stuff." The player values items for their d20 312D: Most Valued Abstraction (roll a d20)
usefulness in game play. Yet, consider how the character feels 1 [L+2] Family, love of and loyalty to one's kin.
about her possessions, particularly that special one being selected 2 [L+2] Freedom, both personal and national.
here. How would she feel if it were lost? Stolen? Destroyed? 3 [L+2] Friendship, loyalty to one's friends
Where does she keep it? How does she keep it safe? 4 [N-2] Fun, just having a good time
5 [L+2] Honesty
d20 312C: Most Valued Thing (roll ld20) 6 [N-1] Knowledge
7 [N-1] Love (or possibly just Romantic Activities)
1 Aircraft 8 Weapon. 8 [D+2] Money
2 Article of clothing 9 Piece of jewelry 9 [L+2] One's Word
3 Boat 10 Knick-knack 10 [L+1] Patriotism, loyalty to one's country
4 Book 11 Painting 11 [D+1] Political beliefs
5 Childhood toy 12 Letter 12 [D+2] Possessions
6 Diary 13 Drawing 13 [0+3] Power
7 Place of residence 14 Tool 14 [N-1] Privacy
15 Legacy. Select on Table 853: Gifts & Legacies. 15 [L+3] Religious beliefst
16 Personal item. Examples: lighter, razor, watch, glasses, 16 [L+3] Sanctity of Life
compact, purse, pipe, cane. 17 [N-1] Scientific beliefs
17 Photograph of ... Roll a d4 18 [L+1] Social Welfare (equal rights, save whales, etc.)
19 [N-1] Sports
1 A treasured place 20 [N-1] Work
2 The most valued person
3 A relative from Table 1040: Other Relations. t This assumes a good religion, not one devoted to selfish­
4 Some other person from Table 743: Others. ness or evil. If such is not the case, make this into D+3.
18 Ground vehicle, such as car, truck, or motorcycle. Select
on Table 864: Vehicles. 312E:Alignment
19 Reroll. Item is a focus for or symbol of the Most Valued
Abstraction. Example: A character who values God and Determine Alignment: Look at the totals beneath the
selects a book here might possess an old family Bible. columns of Darkside and Lightside traits in the PERSONALITY
20 Reroll. Item is linked to the Most Valued Person: either as section of the worksheet. If the Lightside or Darkside column total
a former possession or a gift. is two points greater than any other column, then the character's
alignment is the same as the highest column total. If either the
Lightside column or the Darkside column is NOT two points
312D: Most Valued Abstraction greater, then the character's alignment is Neutral. Record the
Abstractions are not physical things. They are concepts, character's alignment on the line provided for it.
beliefs or states of being upon which the character bases his life. Select Attitude: Read the attitude types below the section
Special Instructions: Each abstraction entry is pre­ heading on the next page that corresponds to the character's align­
ceded by a formula in brackets. This formula modifies one of the ment. Each attitude suggests a behavior pattern that might be fo-

I
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Table 312 continues on the next page ...
312: Alignment & Attitude 44 312: Alignment & Attitude

IIowed by a character of that alignment. Select the one that is most for often choosing to side with good or evil because she doesn't
appropriate for the character (whether a player character or an care which wins.
NPC). Record the character's attitude on the line provided for it.
Materialistic: "He who dies with the most toys, wins!" is this
Roleplay: A character's alignment is his moral philosophy of character's battle-cry. This greedy character puts great emphasis
life, the primary aspects of his value system. It should be based on on material things, particularly ones he can own. He strives to own
the predominance of Personality traits and modified by the things the best of everything and may compromise other principles for
he values most. His attitude is how he lives out that philosophy. self gain. Like the self-centered character, he takes the course of
Like all things, both are subject to change as the character grows action that will best suit his desires for material gain.
and changes. Try to play the character in keeping with his align­
Anarchic: "It's my life, I'll do as I please." Lives according to a
ment and rememberto play up his attitude. Use your discretion, but
try to act in character. loose persona/code of ethics, though she does not feel bound to
tell the truth, keep her word or help others if there is nothing in it for
her. An individualist who disrespects higher authority, she does
LightsideAlignment what she pleases, when it pleases her.
Followers of the Lightside respect others' reasonable rights. Egalitarian: "Both sides have a right to their own views." She
The preservation of life and freedom are among their highest champions the underdog, regardless ofwhether the cause is good
goals. Such characters are often considered "good." or evil. She believes in fairness and equality for all. Like the chival­
rous knight, she is dedicated to her code of honor. Unfortunately,
Lightside Attitudes the causes that she champions may not be the best for society.
Ethical: "What is true for one is true for all." is her watchword. Conformist: "Don't make waves," "Don't stick your neck out"
She lives according to a strict, universal moral code of ethics. and "It's none of my business" are his quotable quotes. He's Joe­
Values fair play and respects authority; does no evil to self or average and likes it that way. He goes with the flow. His values are
others; and works for the good of all. the popular ones for his times and make no effort to side with or
Conscientious: "Each man knows his own 'good' and de­ against good or evil.
fends it." sums up the conscientious character's beliefs. He lives
according to a strict persona/code of ethics. He is often an individu­ DarksideAlignment
alist who works for the law and the good of the greatest number of
people, but who may distrust higher authority, living and working These three are the big "D" attitudes: Depraved, Deviant and
"outside the law." Includes vigilantes and "Robin Hood" types. Diabolical. The character's personality is weighted heavily to­
wards unpleasant or unacceptable behavior. Darkside attitudes
Chivalrous: "The strong are morally responsible to be the are often marked by a craving for personal power or imposition of
shepherds of the weak." is the chivalrous character's rule for life. their own morally flawed value systems, at the cost of others' lives
Lives by the belief that the strong must protect the weak. This is and freedom. The character may do anything to accomplish
often found among those of high Social Status and super heroes. personal goals and is generally considered "evil" by society.
NeutralAlignment Darkside Attitudes
The character's personality is roughly balanced between Dark­ Depraved: "This is going to be fun." is not something one
side, Lightside, and Neutral traits. None has dominance. Such wants to hear this character say. Self-serving and unscrupulous.
characters are neither strongly good nor strongly flawed. They Like the Self-centered attitude (see above) seeks to fulfill personal
may quite readily fit into one of the following attitudes: desires, but unlike that attitude, this character will do anything to
obtain his goals. A depraved character may even torture and kill for
Neutral Attitudes the sheer fun of it.
Self-centered: "What's in it for me?" is the watchword of the Deviant: "I have rights!" and "What is true for ME is true for
self-centered character. He tends to look out for his own interests all."" Like the Ethical attitude, he lives by a strict and ordered moral
above anything else, though there are limits to what he will do. Like code. But this code is centered around the Deviant's self-centered
the Lightside alignments, he tends to have a high regard for life and personal goals and may have little to do with acceptable morality.
freedom. He may be friendless, a mercenary who serves a cause He respects honor and discipline in others, and may even protect
only because it pays well, but once he gives his word or his loyalty, the innocent, but will not tolerate those who work to cross him.
he does not go back on it. Nevertheless, there is no higher cause
to him than self service and self preservation. Diabolical: "No one can tell me what to do!" is her watchword.
The despicable Diabolical character has no code of ethics. She is
Apathetic: "What does it matter and who cares?" are her mot­ unpredictable, helps others only to be able to hurt them later, de­
tos. Such a character believes that nothing really matters in the spises all that is honorable, disciplined or that reminds her of
end. She lives her life as if there were nothing to be accountable authority.

Your Character History is Complete!

1. Make any adjustments to your character's attributes.
2. Determine whether your character is Literate or not (see page 8).
3. Calculate your character's starting money (see page 8).
4. Convert skills and their Ranks into skills for your game system.
5. Reread the Motivations & Linking Events sections.
6. Write your character's history as his life story (see Linking Events on page 13).
 413: Occupations 45 413: Occupations

413:
Occupations
Use only if directed here by another Table
d20 413B: Occupation Table I (Roll a d20)
Occupations are what most "normal" folk do to put bread Base cost multiplier: 1
(or junk food) on the table. They are also what adventuring char­
acters do for a living before they become adventurers. Since many 1 Homeless. Also sometimes called a hobo, bum, beggar,
roleplay game systems assume that the character has gained his or street person, depending on time and place.
professional skills on the job in the years prior to adventuring, this 2 Street Punk. A petty criminal.
group of tables provides a selection of those jobs for the aspiring 3 Agricultural worker: roll a d4 on the subtable below:
adventurer (though not all occupations are represented). 1 Agriculture technician
2 Ranch hand (cowboy)
Instructions: Unless directed otherwise, begin by rolling a 3 Farm hand
d10 and adding the character's So/Mod to the result. Match the Farmer
total against Table 413A to find which Table contains the charac­
4
ter's occupation. Go to that table and follow directions. This selects 4 Merchant Sailor.
the occupation (or gives instructions to go to another table). Follow 5 Laborer: roll a d6 on the subtable below:
directions until an occupation is selected. If the selected occupa­ 1 Miner 4 Warehouse worker
tion does not seem to fit the game (such as a computer technician 11 2 Dock worker 5 Landscaper
in a pre-industrial society), reroll until you get one that works. From 3 Lumberjack 6 Mail room worker
here, go on to Table418:Occupation Performance. 6 Food Service Worker: waitperson, busboy, short-order
Roleplay: By learning a trade, a character becomes a cook, fast-food clerk.
contributing member of society. He gains skills that may be useful 7 Fishennan.
when adventuring and has a means to make money. 8 Household servant: roll a d8 on the subtable below:
1 Butler 5 Gardener
Gameplay Benefits: Each occupation should have sev­ 2 Cook 6 Chauffeur
eral skills associated with it that the character can learn and im­ 3 Housekeeper 7 Maid
prove upon. If a game system does not specify occupational skills, 4 Nanny 8 Serving person
the GM and the player will need to determine what these are and
how they are to be used in play. 9 Tavern Employee: roll a d4 on the subtable below:
11 1 Bartender 3 Housekeeper
Note: Occupations followed by an asterisk "*" may not be 2 Serving person 4 Bouncer
appropriate for use in all game genres.
10 Street Vendor: sells goods he makes, finds, buys, or
"acquires" at his movable streetside stall. Often a source
dlO 413A: Occupation Selector ( dlO + SolMod) of inexpensive (or imitation) goods.
1-5 Select on Table 4138: Occupation Table/ 11 Soldier: for details in depth see Table 527: Military
6-8 Select on Tab/e413C:Occupation Tab/ell Experience.
9 Select on Table413E:Occupation Table IV 12 Craftsman: select craft on 417A: Craft Tab/el.
10 Lo-Tech Occupation. If the Tech Level of a character's 13 Factory Worker. Anything from heavy manufacturing to
culture is 6 or less, select the occupation on Table delicate assembly of electronics.
413F: Lo-Tech Occupations (otherwise reroll). 14 Office Worker: just about any non-management job.
11 Job is special occupation, specific to the genre of the 15 Health Care Worker: a clerical worker, orderly or nurse.
game system. Select the occupation on one of the fol­ 16 Technician (a.k.a. "Mechanic"). Operates, repairs,
lowing tables. Super Heroes: Table 414A. Horror: maintains and services equipment in his area of expertise.
Table4148. Detective/Espionage: Table414G. Pulp Roll a d1 O on the subtable below to select this area.
Heroes: Table4140. 1 Robotics* 6 Aerospace*
12 A hobby practiced as an occupation. Select occupa­ 2 Mechanical 7 Power
tion on Table419: Hobbies. 3 Electrical 8 Medical
13 An unusual skill is practiced as an occupation. Select 4 Computer* 9 Weapons
occupation on Table863: Unusual Skills. 5 Vehicles 10 Agricultural
14 Select on Table413C:Occupation Tab/ell. 17 Retail Worker: a store clerk or cashier.
15-16 Select on Table4130: Occupation Table III. Writer: lives by writing. Writes nearly anything for money.
17 Reroll, but do not add in SolMod.
18
1f Professional Driver. Trucker, cabbie, chauffeur.
18 Select on Table413£: Occupation Table IV. Custodian: cleans up after everyone else.

n
20
19-24+ Select on Table4130:Occupation Table I/I.

11 Table 413 Continues on the next page ...

413: Occupations 46 413: Occupations

d20 413C: Occupation Table Il (Roll a d20) d20 413D: Occupation Table III (Roll a d20)
Base cost multiplier: 2 Base cost multiplier: 3
1 Field Scientist: a scientist who performs much of his 1 Research Scientist: furthers the wealth of knowledge
work out in the world, rather than a laboratory. within the scope of his primary area of expertise. Roll a
1 Anthropologist 5 Criminologist d10 to select that area:
2 Archaeologist 6 Geologist 1 Robotics* 6 Aerospace
3 Biologist 7 Paleontologist 2 Physics 7 Cybernetics*
4 Botanist 8 Reroll twice more. 3 Chemistry 8 Electronics/Computers*
2 Television/Radio: This person works in broadcasting 4 Biology 9 Paranormal
(radio or television). If time period allows a choice (after 5 Medicine 10 Astrophysics
1950), roll a d6 on a result of 5-6, the character works in 2 Administrator/Manager: Oversees the operations of a
Television). Character's Rank with skill must be 5+ for large scale business or other organization.
exposure or influence to be anything more than local. 3 Architect: the designer of impressive buildings, both
1 News Announcer 5 Script Writer public and private.
2 Media Producer 6 Sales 4 Medical Doctor. Roll a d6. On a result of 3-6, the doctor
3 Technician 7 Management is_ a specialist, such as a psychiatrist, radiologist, cardiolo­
4 Camera Operator 8 Actor/Actress gist, etc.
3 Merchant: go to Table 415: Merchants. 5-6 Merchant:goto Table415:Merchantsandselectthetype
4 Journalist: a reporter of news and events. Roll a d6. On of mercantile operation.
a result of 5-6, character is a photojournalist. At Rank 5+, 7 Contractor: oversees the construction of private and
character is assumed to have world travel experience. public buildings.
5 Public Safety: Roll a d4 to select the type job: 8 Craftsman: select the craft on Table 41 lC.

II 1 Policeman
2 Fireman
3 Paramedic
4 Special Weapons And Tactics
9
10
Commercial Artist: produces art for publication.
Diplomat or Negotiator: establishes or soothes relation­
ships between governments or between businesses and
6 Business Owner: roll again on Table4138to select the
type of activity the business performs. The character has governments.
employees who perform this service. 11 Dentist: fixes teeth that need repair.
7 Craftsman: select craft on Table 4178. 12 Attorney: deals in the finer points of the law and defend­
8 Professor: teaches at a college or university. ing the innocent against unjust prosecution. On the other
9 Social Worker/Psychologist: works to cure the ills of hand she may spend most of her time going for the "deep
society. pocket" of insurance companies in civil liabilities cases.
10 Government worker: select type on Table416: Govern­ 13 Philosopher: a thinker, a sage, or even a theologian­
ment Jobs. If the selected job appears to be one of--a probably associated with either a religious institution or a
relatively high status, assume that the character is an school of higher learning.
assistant to that position, maybe a second in command. 14 Travel Agent: makes travel arrangements for clients.
11 Craftsman: select craft on Table 417A. 15 Interpreter: speaks several important languages fluently.
12 Chef: cook for a good restaurant or a wealthy family. Is probably attached to a government office or a large cor­
13 Manager: manages the operation of a restaurant, hotel or poration. Speaks 1d4 languages at Rank 5 skill.
retail establishment. 16 Government Official: select the type on Table 416:
14 Hostler: runs a boarding house or bed and breakfast Government Jobs. If the selected occupation appears to
where travellers can get a room. Serves meals and drinks. be of low status within the government, assume that the
15 Aircraft PIiot: can fly most standard aircraft of her day. character is in charge of all that type of activity for the
16 Construction Professional. Roll a d6 to select the type government.
17 Banker: keeps track of other folks credit and loans credits

I
of job on stable below.
1 Steelworker 4 Heavy equip. driver to make credits.
2 Mason 5 Carpenter 18 Business Owner: select the type of activity the business
3 Electrician 6 Plumber performs by rolling the die again on Table 4138. If the
result makes no sense or is too difficult to work out, reroll.
17 Ship Captain: sails ships on the high seas, lakes and The character does not actually do this service, but has
rivers. Roll a d10. Has a 10 + SolModpercentage chance employees who do it.
to own his ship. 19 Landlord: owns property, rents it to others. Roll 1d10 for
18 Engineer: knows the ins and outs of designing, maintain­ the number of properties owned. Select the average
ing and improving aspects of his area of expertise. Roll a Social Status of the landlord's tenants on Table 103:
d1O on the subtable below to select that area. Social Status.
1 Robotics* 6 Aerospace* 20 M�rketing Specialist: knows how to promote and popu­
2 Mechanical 7 Power larize people, consumer goods, corporations and so on.
3 Electrical 8 Medical
4 Computer* 9 Manufacturing
5 Structural 10 Agricultural
19 Teacher: teaches children and young people.
'
20 Bar Owner: runs a tavern where drinks and food are sold.

H Table 413 continues on the next page ...

11
413: Occupations 47 413: Occupations

d20 413E: Occupation Table IV (Roll a d20) d20 413F: Lo Tech Occupations (Roll a d20)
Base cost multiplier: 1d3 These are occupations found in remote or preindustrial areas
1 Mercenary: an independent professional soldier. Forde­ of the world, many of which still remain into the late 20th
tails in depth see Table 527: Military Experience. century, even in North America.
2 Artist: a fine artist who creates art for sale. Usually Base cost multiplier: 1
talented in more than one artistic media. 1 · Fisherman: his livelihood is the sea.
3 Adventurer: a professional hero for hire. Select his 2 Hunter: he stalks wild game, providing both food and
original occupation on Table 413A. clothing.
4 Career Criminal: select on Table 862: Crimes. 3 Warrior: a fighter. He or she may also have more peaceful
s Clergyman: select religion on Table 533: Religion. An livelihood too.
NPC clergyman's skill Rank represents his standing within 4 Toolmaker: a craftsman who makes simple tools.
the religion. The subtable below shows relationship be­ 5 Shaman: a religious leader. Often feared and quite
tween Rank and position within the hierarchy of the powerful. This is the early equivalent of both physician and
religion. Titles are representative only. Give the clergy­ priest. In addition to totem spirit magic, he is wise in the
man a title appropriate to his or her religion. ways of plant lore and folk medicines.
Rank 1 = Novitiate 6 Tent or Sail maker: depending on the culture, he makes
Rank 2 = Monk (an initiate of religious mysteries) tents (of felt, fabric or leather) or sails for sailing boats.
Rank 3-4 = Full priest/minister 7 Riding Master: breeds riding beasts, breaks them to the
Rank 5-8 = Chief Priest saddle and teaches riding skills.
Rank 9 = A High Priest 8 Shipwright: a builder of sailing vessels.
Rank 10+ = Earthly head of the religion 9 Forester: a warrior, guide and hunter who knows the
6 Gulde/PIiot: a pathfinder who aids travelers, vacationers forest, its flora and its fauna.
and merchants in unknown or "exciting" areas. 10 Farmer: he wrests food from the land.
7 Jack of All Trades: roll 1d3+ 1. The die result indicates 11 Mountaineer: self-sufficient resident of the wild moun-
the number of different trades known to the character. tains or the outer wilds.
Select occupations on Table 417A: Crafts Table I. 12 Woodcutter: cuts wood for fuel and lumber.
8 Entertainer: a comedian, night club signer, popular band 13 Charcoal burner: converts wood into charcoal.
member, actor, or stage magician. 14 Peat cutter: cuts peat moss blocks for use as fuel.
9 Professional Escort. A companion for hire. Roll a d6. On 15 Launderer: washes clothing.
a result of 4-6, the character is a prostitute hiding behind 16 Scribe: reads and writes fluently in several languages
a respectable title. and has legible, even elegant handwriting.
10 Private Detective: Ferrets out hidden information. May 17 Alchemist:a maker ofpotions, a "magical" meddler in the
have had underworld experience from Table 529: Under­ sciences. Not truly a wizard, not quite a scientist.
world Experience 18 Prophet: someone who speaks for God, bringing the
11 Author: this indicates a successtulwriter. Most practitio­ deity's messages directly to the people.
ners of the literary arts are paupers. 19 Laborer: a strong body is all he needs.
12 Explorer: goes where no one has gone before. 20 Second Hand Shop: buys used goods, fixes them up a
_
14 Professional Athlete: plays a sport professic'1ally. Must bit and resells them for less than new.Much junk, but often
have at least Rank 5 skills to be considered a "big league" real bargains to be found.
player. Even then, he is a lesser light in his sport.
15 Professional Hobbyist: the character may teach the
hobby, perform it professionally or sell its end products.
Select the hobby on Table 419: Hobbies.
16 Professional Gambler.
17 Business Owner: Business is based on a specific game
genre. Select the business on one of the following tables.
Super Hero: Table 414A. Horror: Table 4148. Espionage/
Detective: Table 414C. Pulp Hero: Table 4140.
18 Missionary. a person dedicated to spreading the good
news of his or her faith. Most missionaries also perform
their normal occupation as a part of their mission. Reroll
Occupation on Table 413A. The character will also have
Rank 3 skill in a foreign language.
19 Mystic/Mage: a wielder of magical force. If your game
system does not allow for magic, reroll! Your GM may
need to designate what type of magic is being wielded and
even whether or not the character knows what she is
doing.
20 Game Designer. Creates games. May even play them.

11 From Here - Go to Table 418: Occupation Performance ...

II
414: Special Occupations 48 414: Special Occupations

414:
Special Base cost modifier: 1 d3 (for all tables)

Occupations dlO 414C: Espionage Occupations

Use only if directed here by another table 1 Secret Service Agent: seeks to check the actions of those
who may be dangerous to the government.
2 Bounty Hunter: earns his fees from the government,
Each game genre has occupations that are unique, or at bringing in criminals, political enemies and other scum.
least more common to it than to other genres. 3 Private Detective: Ferrets out hidden information. Roll a
d6. On a result of 3 or more, he has underworld experience
Instructions: The table that sent you here should have from Table 526: Underworld Events.
already told you which table to use. The name of the game genre 4 Company Man: works for the "company," another name
is at the top of the each table. Roll a d10 to select the occupation. for the Government Intelligence Agency. Roll a d6. On a
From here, continue on to Table 418: Occupation Performance. result of 3-6, the character is a field agent (not a desk job).
5 Racer: a professional driver who makes fast cars go even
faster.
dlO 414A: Superhero Occupations 6 Government Worker: select type on Table416: Govern­
ment Jobs.
1 Explorer: searches the world for undiscovered places. 7 DIiettante: exists on an inheritance. Performs no real
Explorer has a 40% chance to have his own private aircraft. "occupation," but may be involved in charity work.
2 Police Officer: Enforces the law. 8 Theoretical Scientist: a research scientist who investi­
3 Foreign Correspondent: Travels the world to bring im­ gates and develops new theories about things within his
portant new stories to light. area of expertise. Select type on Occupation Table413G.
4 Medical Doctor. Roll a d6. On a result of 6, the doctor is 9 Inventor: designs and develops new devices, processes
a specialist, such as a psychiatrist, radiologist, etc. or production concepts.
5 Rock Musician: plays intensely loud, jarring music that 10 Unemployed: Reroll occupationon Table413A:Occupa­
can turn a normal brain to mush in minutes. tion Selector, but the character is unable (or unwilling) to
6 Inventor: designs and develops new devices, processes find work in his or her area of expertise.
or production concepts.
7 Dilettante: exists on an inheritance. Performs no real
"occupation," but may be involved in charity work.
8 Field Scientist: select type on Occupation Table 413G. dlO 414D: Pulp Hero Occupations
9 Test PIiot: tests the reliability of experimental aircraft. 1 Mercenary: a soldier for hire. Generally has some of his
10 Unemployed: Reroll occupationon Table413A:Occupa­ own personal weaponry and equipment.
tion Selector, but the character is unable (or unwilling) to 2 Explorer: searches the world for undiscovered peoples
find work in his or her area of expertise. and places. Explorer has a 25% chance to have his own
private aircraft.
dlO 414B: Horror Occupations 3 Big Game Hunter: stalks the really big, and often danger­
ous animals of the wilds.
1 Occult Investigator: investigates the paranormal. 4 Field Scientist: select type on Occupation Table 413G.
2 Professional Psychic: claims to be in contact with the 5 Inventor: designs and develops new devices, processes
spirit world. or production concepts.
3 Cult Leader: heads up an occultic fringe religion. 6 Dilettante: exists on an inheritance. Performs no real
4 Horror Writer: writes popular horror fiction. "occupation," but may be involved in charity work.
5 Medical Doctor: Roll a d6. On a result of 6, the doctor is 7 Vigilante: self-appointed criminal investigator/policeman/
a specialist, such as a psychiatrist, radiologist, etc. judge/jury. Seeks to bring the lawless to justice. May have
6 Reporter: specializes in stories about the unusual. a "day" job too.
7 Weird Scientist: combines the occult with science. 8 Aviator: has own plane and performs odd jobs with it-air
8 Paranormal Exterminator: works to end problems brought shows, deliveries, passenger service, mail, etc.
about by ghosts, demons and dabblers in the occult. 9 Archaeologist: brings back the treasures of the ancients
9 Charlatan: Reroll on this subtable. However, she is a fake for display in museums (less of a scientist, more of a
and uses her "skill" to bilk others out of their money. professional tomb robber).
10 Unemployed: Reroll occupation on Table413A:Occupa­ 10 Unemployed: Reroll occupation on Table413A:Occupa­
tion Selector, but the character is unable (or unwilling) to , tion Selector, but the character is unable (or unwilling) to
find work in his or her area of expertise. find work in his or her area of expertise.

11 From Here-Go to Table 418: Occupation Performance

11
 415: Merchants 49 416: Government Jobs

415: 416:
Merchants Government Jobs
Use only if directed here by another table Use only if directed here by another table

Just as important as the business of making and growing These are people who either govern others or work as a cog
things, is the business of selling things. Merchants are the lifeblood in the wheel of one of the multitude of governments that oversee
of most economies. They keep money moving. They also provide the lives of people around the world. In general, these folks are
the things the adventurers so desperately need (or at least covet). either elected (by the people or a ruling power block) or appointed
Note that the selections here are not a reflection of a "real" to perform a job. A society's Culture often determines which.
economy and are geared towards adventure gaming. Instructions: Roll a d20 and match the result against the
Instructions: Roll 2d8 and match the total against Table Table 416: Government Jobs. This is the government worker's job
415to select a merchant type. From here, go onto Table 418: function. Roll Hi/Lo for the official's sex if necessary. Hi= female,
Occupation Performance. Lo= male. From here, go onto Table 418: Occupation Perform­
ance.
Gameplay Benefits: Merchants learn languages, usually
due to exposure to people who don't speak their own. This trans­ Roleplay: There have been government workers almost as
lates to Rank 2 skill in 1 d4 foreign languages. Merchants also learn long as there have been governments. There are three reasons
the value of what they sell. A merchant will have an ability to that someone becomes a government worker, 1) he has a desire
evaluate trade goods (usually limited to those he is familiar with) to serve humanity, 2) has a lust for power and enjoys dominating
equal to his skill Rank as a merchant. and humiliating others, or 3) is simply not qualified to do anything
else. When roleplaying a government worker, one or more of these
three reasons can easily be the character's motivation.
2d8 415: Merchant Types (roll 2d8)
2 Arms Dealer: Buys and sells weapons, usually in large d20 416: Government Jobs (roll a d20)
quantities to questionable clients.
3 Snake Oil Salesman: Sells "miracles" to a needy world. 1 Chief executive officer: president or chairman.
Travels a lot by necessity. 2 Office worker: back bone of government.
4 Tavern keeper: Sells alcoholic beverages, a cheerful at- 3 Policeman: a patrolman or maybe a detective.
mosphere and a limited meal menu. 4 Pollce chief: top cop.
5 Pawnshop: Valuables are used to secure loans here. If 5 Sheriff: law and order in smaller towns and villages.
items are not reclaimed, the pawnshop sells the item. 6 Revenue Officer: tax collector.
6 Trader: The descendant of the traveling salesman and the 7 Magistrate: a courtroom judge with limited authority.
long-haul trucker. 8 Diplomat or ambassador.
7 Hoteller: Provides a bed, a meal and more. 9 City Ruler: a mayor, party chairman, manager, etc.
8 Retail Merchant: This is most stores, including fashions, 10 Advisor to the ruler of a country: a counselor .
books, food, hardware, vehicles, weapons, etc. 11 Chief Advisor to a ruler: like a Prime Minister.
9 Importer: A general importer of trade goods, including 12 Governor: appointed to rule a colony or territory.
spices, raw materials or subassemblies for manufacturing, 13 Judge: interprets the law.
crafts, grain, curios, and wild beasts. 14 Secret Policeman: undercover arm of the law.
10 Livestock Trader: Buys and sells farm animals for food 15 Soldier: a paid member of the standing army. Roll a d1o.
and other uses. If the result is a 1-5, the soldier is not an officer. If the result
11 Shipping Agent: Arranges the transportation of goods to is 6-8, the soldier is a noncommissioned officer. If the
many destinations. May run freight lines or own ships, but result is 9-10, the soldier is a commissioned officer.
usually uses others. Officers go to Table 530: Military Rankto select their rank.
12 Real Estate Broker: Locates potential properties for clients 16 Postal Worker: Ensures that communications are trans-
and arranges the sale. ferred and delivered.
13 Jewelry Dealer: Trades in gemstones and jewelry. 17 Bureaucrat: a petty official within a government.
14 Art Dealer: Acquires and sells works of art. 18 Legislator: part of a law-making body.
15 Antique Dealer: Acquires and sells antiquities (ancient 19 Government Employee: select job on Table 413A:
statuary and historical artifacts) Occupation Selection. Reroll any obvious absurdities (but
16 Monopoly: Roll again on this table to select business. The think first, would any job be too absurd for your favorite
merchant controls all businesses of this sort in either a , government to undertake?).
major city or a small country. 20 Spy: covert intelligence agent.

11 From Here - Go to Table 418: Occupation Performance

11
417: Crafts 50 417: Crafts

417:
:_:. ELVISf .'·
. .· · . = =-
. ·'I_;__

Crafts
Use only if directed here by another table

Crafts are skilled occupations in which the end product is

417B: Craft Table II (Roll a d20)
usually something tangible, like a piece of pottery, a ship, a tool, or d20 Craft
a piece of furniture. The crafts are a part of the heritage of many 1 Shipwright: builds sailing ships.
races. Many craftsman carry on centuries old family traditions. Their 2 Wheel/Cartwright: makes wheels and wagons.
crafts appear anachronistic, seemingly out of place in our industri­ 3 Distiller: makes distilled beverages, usually alcoholic.
alized world. Yet they still exist and their goods will often be of the 4 Tinker: repairs simple household objects.
highest quality. 5 Sign Painter: paints signs for all occasions.
6 Clock Maker: makes and repairs mechanical time pieces.
Instructions: Each of the three Craft subtables is separate 7 MIiier: grinds grain into flour.
from the others. The occupation table entry which sent you here 8 Armor Smith: makes armor and some weapons.
should have indicated which subtable to use. To select a craft 9 Sausage Maker: makes sausages.
occupation, roll a d20 and match the result againstthe appropriate 10 Brewer: makes beers, ales and meads.
table. Record the craft in the OCCUPATION section of the work­ 11 Animal Trainer: trains common animals like dogs or
sheet. From here, go to Table 418: Occupation Performance. horses.
12 Plasterer: plasters walls and ornate decorations.
Roleplay: Craftsmen are usually respected members of so­ 13 Glazier: makes and installs window glass.
ciety. Master Craftsmen, especially artistic ones, are treated with 14 Tailor: makes/repairs clothing of all kinds.
honor often reserved for Nobles. Craft skills may be more appli­ 15 Silver Smith: makes and repairs metal vessels.
cable and appreciated on frontier or colony worlds where mass 16 Glassblower: makes bottles and glassware.
production is limited and interstellar imports are expensive. 17 Cabinet Maker: makes fine wooden furniture.
18 Weapon Master: a teacher of weapon skills.
Gameplay Benefits: Each craft consists of one or more 19 Dress Maker: makes women's clothing
skills that the character can learn and improve upon. The GM and 20 Frame Maker: mats and frames artwork.
the player will need to determine what these are and how they are
to be used in play.
417C: Craft Table III (Roll a d20)
d20 Craft
417A: Craft Table I (Roll a d20)
1 Cosmetologist: skilled in the art of make-up creation and
d20 Craft application.
1 Blacksmith: maker and repairer of metal goods. 2 Costumer: makes costumes and elegant clothing.
2 Potter: makes pottery and glazes. 3 Goldsmith: a crafter of gold for all uses.
3 Weaver: makes cloth, usually of natural fibers. 4 Jeweler: a maker and assessor of fine jewelry.
4 Stone Mason: shapes and lays stone. 5 Instrument Maker: musical instruments.
5 Gunsmith: makes and repairs solid projectile guns. 6 Composer: a professional creator of music.
6 Baker: bakes bread, cakes, cookies, etc. 7 Cartographer: master surveyor and map maker.
7 Butcher: butchers animals, smokes meats. 8 Perfumer: makes perfumes and scents.
8 Carpenter: builds with wood (or synthetic materials). 9 Animal Trainer: train exotic animals.
9 Tanner: prepares leather from animal hides. 10 Pharmacist: makes and dispenses medicines.
10 Rope and Net Maker. 11 Furrier: makes and sells fine fur clothing.
11 Leather Worker: makes leather goods. 12 Horse Breeder: blends the bloodlines of fine horses.
12 Cobbler: a specialty shoemaker. Also repairs shoes. 13 Fine Artist: paints murals and portraits, sculpts statues.
13 Basket Weaver: maker of baskets and wickerware. 14 Wine Maker: knows his wines, grapes and fruits.
14 Joiner: makes wooden furniture & cabinets. 15 Oculist: makes custom lens, and eyeglasses.
15 Painter: paints houses, ships, etc. 16 Pastry Chef: cakes, sweet breads and pastries.
16 Spinner: spins wool, flax, and cotton into thread. 17 Confectioner: candy maker.
17 Dyer: colors woven fabrics. 18 Paper and Ink Maker: source of special papers and inks.
18 Chandler: makes candles. 1¥ Knife Maker: makes swords, daggers, and other bladed
19 Sail Maker: makes sails for sailing vessels. weapons.
20 Saddle and Riding Harness Maker. 20 Poet: a writer of sonnets, odes and epics.

11 From Here - Go to Table 418: Occupation Performance ...

11
418: Occupation Performance 51 ccupation Performance

418:
Occupation
Performance
Use only if directed here by another table

This table is optional, use it only if you want to. It goes into
details about a character's or an NPC's performance of his
occupation, including attitudes about work, and coworkers, work
habits and level of achievement within the occupation.
Instructions: If you chose to use this table, roll a d3. The
result is the number of different descriptions which apply to the
character's or the NPC's work habits. Roll a d20 and a d6 for each
description to be selected. On Table 418A: Work Attitudes, go to
the entry indicated by the d20 result. Use the column (either left or
right) on the table as indicated by the d6 result.
If the character being described here is a nonplayer character,
go to Table 41BB: Level of Achievement. Roll a d20 to select how 418B: Level of Achievement NPCs only!
well the character does in his chosen occupation, including a
relative Rank for his skill level. d20 Achievement (roll a d20)
From here, return to the table that requested that an occupa­ 1-2 Apprentice: NPC never managed to rise above this
tion be selected. level of accomplishment. Roll a d20 again. If the result
is 19-20, the NPC was an acknowledged failure at his
profession. Anyone in that profession will know of it.
418A: Work Attitudes Skill Rank is 1d2 (Rank 1 or 2)
d20 Work Attitudes (roll a d20 & a d6) 3-14 Journeyman: The skills are known, but mastery was
never gained. Most probably, he works for someone
d6 result of 1-4 d6 result of 5-6 else, since his skills are hardly worth noting. Skill Rank
1 Hard worker Lazy is 1d3+2 (Rank 3 to 5).
2 Ambitious Laid back/Casual 15-17 Skilled Tradesman: A well respected practitioner of
3 Overbearing Submissive the craft or profession, though he has gained little
4 Well-liked Hated renown for the practice of his occupation. A character
5 Patient Impatient with this skill ranking will usually own his own business
6 Talented Incompetent or be an overseer in someone else's business. Skill
7 Generous Stingy Rank is 1d2+4 (Rank 5 or 6).
8 Fair Underhanded 18-19 Master Craftsman: An acknowledged master of the
9 Opinionated AYesman profession. There are few better at it than he. Usually
10 Inspired Loyalty Inspired Mistrust has his own business, though he may be in the employ
11 Humble Arrogant of some wealthy patron. Many times his business
12 Trustin� Jealous involves training apprentices to the craft. Skill Rank is
13 Creative Uncreative 1d2+6 ( Rank 7 or 8).
14 Adept Clumsy 20 A Master of Note: The NPC has gone beyond mere
15 Efficient Inefficient practice of the craft to turn it into an art form. He is a
16 Workaholic Slacker Grand Master, known throughout the world. His work is
17 Productive Unproductive in high demand and often demands a high price. Such
18 Office Politician Avoids politics a character's skill Rank is Rank 9. Roll a d20 again. If the
result is 20, he has legendary skill at his craft (Rank 10).
19
20
Happy
Roll again on Table
641A: Ughtside Traits.
Unhappy
Roll again on Table
6418: Darkside Traits.
' Roll a d20 once more. If the result is again 20, the char­
acter has Mythical skill (Rank 11 +). Others who practice
the same profession will be in awe of the character.

II From Here - Return to the Table that sent you to select an Occupation ...
11
 .9: Hobbies 52 419: Hobbies 521

419: 419A: Type of Hobby (Roll a d20)

Base cost multiplier: 2
d20Hobbies & Diversions
Collect something(weapons, animals, paintings, books,
Hobbies 1

2
signatures, religious symbols, antiques, etc.).
Dancing(either participation or spectator).
3 Unusual Sport. Like squash or bull-fighting.
Use only if directed here by another table 4 Outdoorsman. Roll a d8 to find the area of interest.
1 Fishing 5 Rock Climbing
2 Scuba diving* 6 Snow Skiing
Regardless of culture, social status or even species, it's not 3 Sky diving* 7 Hunting
1nusual for an intelligent being to devote its "free" time to diver- 4 Hiking 8 Hang gliding* te
1ions that entertain, challenge or improve oneself . s Write Creatively(poetry, histories, fiction, plays) m
Instructions: Roll a d20 and match the result against Table 6 Pursues an unusual skill as hobby, select on Table 863:
419A to select a hobby. Then go to Table 4198 and roll a d20 to Unusual Skills.
jetermine the character's degree of interest in the hobby. Finally 7 Art. Draw, paint or sculpt.
go to Table 419G below and roll a d4 to determine the character's 8 Hobbycraft. Roll a d8 to determine the area of interest.
skill at the hobby(as adjusted by the Degree of Interest modifiers). 1 Needlework 5 Baking
2 Knife making 6 Weaving
Roleplay: Hobbies provide characters with unusual, but 3 Holography 7 Ceramics
often useful skills, often unobtainable by other means. Hobbies 4 Model making 8 Sewing
often have a negative side-effect: they become compulsive, con­ Music. Appreciation & Performance.
suming all a character's time, energy, and money.
9
IO Study. Roll a dB to determine the area of interest.
1 History 5 Archeology
2 Religion 6 Other Cultures
419B: Degree of Interest (Roll a d20) 3 Art 7 Paranormal Activity
4 Astronomy 8 Weapons
d20 Degree of Interest
11 Sports and Athletics. Roll a d8 on the subtable below to
1-4 Casual. Easy to put aside when necessary. Spending determine the type of activity.
money on this hobby is a rare occurrence. 1 Wrestling(+1 point Strength attribute)
5-12 Sporadic and Variable. Interest runs in spurts, intense 2 Running{+1 point to Constitution attribute)
at times, totally ignored at others. Character will easily 3 Fencing(gain Rapier skill )
spend 1% of his total income on this hobby. 4 Team ball sport(+1 point to Dexterity attribute)
5 Animal racing{gain riding skill)
13-19 Devoted. Given a choice, this is how the character 6 Swimming(gain swimming skill)
spends his free time. About 1Oto 15% of total income 7 Target shooting{gain skill with bow)
is spent on this hobby. 8 Martial arts{gain skill with fists and feet)
20 Consuming Passion. This activity is a focal point of the 12 Partying.
character's life (see Obsessive Behavior description, 13 Game playing. Roll a d8 to determine the area of interest.
entry 14, in Table 6418: Mental Afflictions). Character 1 Computer games* 5 Chess
will spend (1d6+2)x10% of his total income on this 2 Cards 6 Board games
hobby and may have to be forcibly pried away from the 3 Gambling 7 Puzzles
pursuit of the hobby. 4 War games 8 Roleplay gaming*
14 Hairdressing and cosmetics.
15 Flying. Roll a d6 to determine the area of interest and skill.
1 Helicopters* 4 Prop planes
419C: Hobby Proficiency 11 2 Ultra-lights* 5 Military Planes
3 Space craft* 6 Jet planes*
Roll 1d4. The result is the character's base or starting Rank 16 Gardening.
with this skill. Add or subtract ranks from this ability based on the 17 Breeding Dogs{or other hunting animals).
degree pf interest modifiers listed below. Rank at hobby will 18 Animal Husbandry{breeding livestock).
never be less than 1. 19 Cinematography{film making and appreciation).
20 ComputerHobbylst.
Degree of Interest Skill Modifier * Anachronisms. This area of interest may not be appropri­
Casual: -1 Rank ate for early time periods. If it is taken, character is probably
Sporadic and Variable: interested in the theory and possibility for development of
Devoted: +1 Rank 'such things in the future.
Consuming Passion: +2 Ranks

It From Here - Re.turn to the Table that sent you here ...
11
520: Tragedies 53 520: Tragedies

520:
always the first or "1O's" digit. Example: a d4 result of 2 and a d1 o
result of o are read as a 20. Match the number against the table
below. Should the die roll indicate a situation could not occur, such
as a parent dying when the character has no living parents or
guardians, then reroll until a tragedy that could happen occurs.
Roleplay: Tragedies happen to almost everyone to one
Tragedies degree or another and we often learn and grow from them. More
than many types of events, these strong emotional occurrences
have profound effects upon characters.
A tragedy could easily provide subsequent life-long motivation
Use only if directed here by another table for the character or drastically change his or her perception of the
world. The violent death of a loved-one could initiate a vendetta
against the perpetrator that may later be played out. A string of
Instructions: When bad things happen to good charac­ tragedies could make the character feel that he has inborn bad luck
ters, it becomes necessary to roll a d4 and a d10. The results are or even that the universe is against him.
not added, but are read like a two-digit number. The d4 result is

d4/d10 520A: Tragic Result (roll a d4 & a dl0) d4/d10 520A: Tragic Result (continued ... )
10 Wild beasts attack. The character receives a grave 22-23 A favorite, possibly valuable, possession vanishes.
injury, but survives. She is forced to watch while the beasts drag Roll a d6 on the subtable below to find how it happened:
off and devour 1d4 family members (if no family, then guardians 1-3 It was lost.
or friends). Go to Table 859: Serious Wounds to determine the 11 4-5 It was stolen.
character's injury and its lasting effect. Select relatives on Table 6 It was stolen and a fake left in its place.
104D: Other Relations (re roll anything that really does not work).
24 One or both of the character's parents are outlawed
11-12 Character is imprisoned for a crime he did not commit. and go into hiding. Roll a d6 on the subtable below to determine
Go to Table 862: Crimes to select the crime for which the the affected parent. The numbers following each name indicate
character has been imprisoned. Following each crime is a the chance on a d6 that the character and the rest of his family
number that indicates the type of die to roll to find the number of followed the outlaw(s) into hiding.
years for or type of sentence. Go to Table 532: Imprisoned/for
special occurrences that happen in prison. 1-3 Father (1-2)
4 Mother (1-4)
13 If the character has children, one of them dies. Select 5-6 Both parents (1-5)
the cause of the tragedy on Table 5208: Tragic Causes. Then go
to Table 538: Death Situations and select how the death occur­ Now go to Table 862: Crimes to find why the parent(s) was
red. If the character has no children, then the event affects a outlawed. Then roll a d6. On a roll of 5-6 the parents go into
sibling. If the character has no siblings, reroll a different tragedy. hiding within a different culture level. Go to Table 102:
Culture & Technology to find the Culture (and CuMod) that
14-15 An industrial accident levels a manufacturing facility in will affect all the character's future rolls.
the character's town, killing one the character's parents (or guar­
dians) in the process, contaminating his neighborhood with 25-26 A vehicle accident kills 1d3 family members (select
toxins and radioactivity and giving the character a grave injury from those recorded on the worksheet), another person (se­
(selected on Table 859: Serious Wounds). As compensation lected on Table 743: Others) and nearly kills the character. Select
from the company, the character receives a 1d1 Ox $10,000.00 a reasonable vehicle on Table 864: Vehicles. Competent plastic
monetary settlement. surgery gives the character a new face, but he must live with
results of 1d2+1 serious injuries (selected on Table 859: Serious
16 A favorite pet dies painfully (special pets created on Wounds). Roll a d6 to select the cause of the accident:
Table 749: Unusual Pets are included in this). Roll a d6. If the roll
is 5 or 6, the death was caused by someone else. Go to Table I The character was drunk or drugged out*.
743: Others and determine who caused the pet to die. 2-3 The other driver was drunk or drugged out.
4-5 Driving conditions were bad.
17-18 Orphaned! Go to Table 539: Death of a Loved One. 6 Someone's actions. Go to Table 743: Others to de­
19 The town where the character lives is wiped out. Roll termine who caused the accident.
a d6 for each close family member or friend living in the affected • ln this case the character also goesto prison:see Table
area. On a roll of 5-6, that person dies in the tragedy. Select the 862: Crimes and Table 532: Imprisoned/for details.
cause of destruction on Table 5208: Tragic Causes.
27-28 Character receives a severe injury that does not heal
20 The character is responsible for a death. Go to Table properly. Go to Table 859: Serious Wounds to select the injury
743: Others to determine who died. Then go to Table 538: Death and its lasting effect. Select the cause of the tragedy on Table
Situations to determine how the death occurred. 5208: Tragic Causes.
21 Family/Guardian(s) is wiped out. Roll a d6 for each 29-30 One of the character's parents (or guardians is killed).
close family member. On a roll of 3-6, that person dies. Selectthe Roll,for Hi/Lo. Hi = father/male guardian. Lo = mother/female
cause of the tragedy on Table 5208: Tragic Causes. guardian. Select the cause of the tragedy
on Table 5208: Tragic Causes. · d ... �
continue �

II Table 520 continues on the next page ...

11
 �
520: Tragedies 54 520: Tragedies •

d4/d10 520A: Tragic Result (continued ... ) d4/d10 520A: Tragic Result (continued ... )
31 The character's home areais overrunby hostile forces. 43 The character's best friend dies. Go to Table 538:
All his possessions are destroyed and he and his family are Death Situations and determine how the death occurred.
forced to perform slave labor for the occupying forces. Select
44 The streets are swept by press gangs seeking "volun-
events as if the character were Imprisoned, but do not add the
character's SolModwhen selecting prison type. The character is teers"for secret medical experiments. While passing a dark alley
tattooed with an identifying number. 1 d3 members of his family the character "volunteers." Police rescue him, but not before he
die during captivity. Select them on Table 1040:otherRelations. has been subjected to the experiment. Give the character 1d3
quirks from Table 642: Exotic Personality Traits and 1d3 items
32 The character is banned from performing his orher pri- from Table 858: Exotic Features as a result of the experiment.
mary profession and is cast out of any unions, professional, 45 The character ·is d"isinh ented
·
associations or societies associated with the trade. lf the charac- by parents. For subse-
quent standard of living, reroll Social Status on Table 103. Do not
ter's identity is publicly known, he or she cannot practice the pro-
add in a character's CuMod or TiModvalues and do subtract 1 O
fession within the confines of his current society. from the die roll. If the character does not have an occupation that
33-35 If the character has a lover, then something terrible he can practice at Rank 3 or better skill, modify the roll by
happens to the beloved. Roll a d1 O on the subtable below to dis- subtracting 45 from it instead.
cover the nature of this tragic event. If the character has no
beloved then reroll a different tragedy. 46 The character is forced into an unwanted marriage. If l
the character is already married, the old spouse "disappears" (he t
1 Unfaithful lover leaves character heartbroken. or she may have been kidnapped, imprisoned or killed). At the
2 Lover attempts to kill character, but then disappears. time of marriage, the new spouse dislikes the character and will
On a d6 roll of 6, the character receives a severe injury obviously cause the character grief for some time to come.
that does not heal properly. Select injury on Table 859:
Serious Wounds. 47 A shift in the economy causes severe inflation. The
3 Lover tries to kill character, but dies in the attempt. value of money becomes a fraction of what it was. All Social
4-5 Loverdies. Select cause on Table 5208: Tragic causes. Status's above Destitute drop 1 d3 levels for 1 d6 years. After that,
6 Lover becomes severely, even dangerously mentally they rise one level, but remain there (unless changed again).
ill and must be permanently hospitalized. 48 The character's family is stripped of all titles and lands.
7 Lover is killed by lover's own jealous former lover. Reroll Social Status on Table 103: Social Status and subtract 10
8 Lover disappears and is never seen again. from the die roll. The SolModfrom this new status will be the one
9 Lover reveals that he or she can hereafter only love that affects all future die rolls. Roll a d6. On a result of 6, the
members of his or her own sex. character's family is outlawed (see #24 above).
10 Lover imprisoned for a crime. Go to Table 862: Crimes
to determine what he or she allegedly did. 49 Roll twice more on this table and combine the results
into one horrible tragedy.
36 A disease almost kills the character and leaves horri- ......-----------------------'
ble scars. Reduce Charisma and Appearance by 1 d4 points.
37-38 War ravages the character's homeland. Roll a d6 on 520B: Tragic Causes
the subtable below to determine the number of additional trage­
dies that afflict the character.
1-2 One additional tragedy.
I Use only if directed here by another table l
3-4 Two additional tragedies. Instructions: Roll a d10 on the table below to select the j
5 1 d3 additional tragedies. cause of a tragic event. Reroll if the situation doesn't fit.
6 If 17 years or older, the character is conscripted
into military duty. Roll for 1 d3 additional tragedies dl0 520B: Tragic Causes (Roll a dlO)
then go Table 527: Military Experience.
39 The character's home is destroyed along with all be­
longings. On a d6 roll of 6, the character's Social Status drops
by one level. Select the cause on Table 5208: Tragic Causes.
1
2
3
4
An unexplainable accident.
A terrible fire.
A virulent, incurable disease.
Someone's actions. Select person on Table 743: Others.
I
40 The tragedy is like a cloud with a "silver lining." Reroll 5 A Villain's actions. Create the fiend on Table 752: Villains.
the event on this table and then select the good thing that comes 6 An explosion.
about because of it on Table 521: Something Wonderful ... 7 Roll for Hi/Lo. Hi = A revolt. Lo = a War.
8 A vehicle accident. Select a reasonable vehicle on Table �·
41 The character's family loses all its wealth. Reroll 864: Vehicles.
Social Status on Table 103: Social Status and subtract 30 from J.

i
9 The character's own actions!
the die roll. The So/Modfrom this new status will be the one that 10 A natural disaster. Rolf a d12 on the subtable 'o�\�.
affects all future die rolls. 7 Meteor Strike
1 Avalanche
42 All persons belonging to the character's ethnic back­ 2 Flood 8 Forest or Brush Fire
ground are rounded up by government troops and placed in 3 Earthquake 9 Tornado
concentration camps. The character escapes, but does not 4 Solar Flare 10 Mine cave in
know the status of his family. The character must assume that 5 Volcano 11 Hurricane or Storm
he too will be hunted down by the government for recapture. 6 Lightning 12 Tidal Wave
 521: Something Wonderful ... 55 521: Something Wonderful ...

521:
Something
Wonderful...
Instructions: Roll a d20 and match the result against the
table below. Some entries may require that additional rolls be
made. Should the die roll indicate a situation that could not occur,
reroll until an event that could happen occurs.
Use only if directed here by another table Roleplay: Good things DO happen, even miraculous things.
When these sort of things happen, the character may feel ex­
Life is tough, so when something good happens to a tremely lucky or blessed by God. Some characters might accept
character it always seems to be unexpected. This is a list of good, this with gladness and humility, while others might feel that they are
wonderful things that can happen. finally getting their due.

d20 521: Wondrous Results (Roll a d20) d20 521: Wondrous Results (continued ...)
1 Carnivorous beasts invade the character's camp. During 11 The character gains a loyal friend and companion. Go to
the attack, the character finds that he has the innate ability to Table 750: Companions to determine the details.
psychically command wild beasts to do his will (so long as it does \� This is a bittersweet blessing for it is combined with a
not seriously risk the animals lives). tragedy. Reroll on this table, then select the accompanying
2 Get Out of Jail Free. A magnanimous ruler pardons all pris­ tragedy on Table 520: Tragedies.
oners. If the character, or his friends or relatives are in prison, \3 ,M A despotic local government official outlaws the charac-
they are set free with an admonition to "Sin no more." ter's parents. After 1d10 years, the official's boss overthrows the
3 If the character has a lover or spouse, he is blessed with evil official and the character's parents are not only pardoned, but
the birth of a healthy, beautiful child. Roll Hi/Lo for the child's sex. are honored for their role in the despot's demise. Add 1d4 points
Hi= male. Lo = female. to the character's So/Mod. Change the character's social status
(see Table 103: Social Status) so that it matches the So/Mod.
4 While repairing the family home, the character discovers
an intriguing item of great value. Go to Table 853: Gifts & 1 � � Character receives a severe injury that does not heal pro-
Legacies to determine what has been found. perly and almost kills her before she is rescued by a benevolent
(but slightly mad) scientist who replaces the body part with an
5 Character acquires an unusual pet. Go to Table 749: Un- experimentalbionic prosthesis which grants the character super­
usual Pets to determine the details about this animal. human powers. Use Table 859: Serious Woundsto find what has
6 The character is adopted into a Wealthy family. If he is an been replaced. Work out any special abilities with your GM.
orphan, it is a true adoption. If he has living parents, he is treated � The character becomes renowned for her occupation.
just like a son. Assume that the new family is of the same Culture Clients from around the world seek her services. The influx of
level as the character at the time of adoption. Roll for important business allows the character to increase her social status by
information about the new family on Tables 104: Birth & Family
and 107: Parents & NPCs. 1d2 levels (but not above Wealthy).
A disease almost kills the character, but miraculously, the
7 The town where the character lives is destroyed, but there \ �� character becomes immune to ALL diseases.
is little loss of life. However, after the disaster passes, the area
is rebuilt and becomes a boom town, more prosperous than ever 17 A lasting peace takes hold in the land. If the character is
before. The Social Status of the character's family raises by one currently in the military, he is discharged with honors (see Table
level (but never above Wealthy). 530: Military Rankfor mustering out benefits.
II The character is responsible for saving a life. Go to Table 18 If the character has an occupation, she is promoted to a
743: Others to determine who was saved. Then go to Table 538: position of respect and authority. Her Charisma attribute rises
Death Situations to determine how the death almost occurred. 1d3 points. Her starting money rises by 10%. Add 1 point to her
Roll Social Status for the near-victim on Table 103. If the victim So/Mod. If character has no occupation, then reroll.
was Well-to-Do or better, a reward of the victim's So/Mocfax $100
is given to the character. 19 The character meets the love of his life. If adults, they marry
and live happily ever after. If children, they wait until age 18, then
9 A new market opens up for the chief source of the charac­ marry. Select romantic events on Table 534: Ah Love!Reroll any
ter's income (or family's income). Add +20% to the character's unpleasant or unfavorable romance events.
starting money. 20 A shift in the economy increases the value of precious me­
10 A miracle (the only possible explanation) gives the charac­ tals. lhe rich get richer. All Social Status's above Comfortable
ter a favorable modification. Select it on Table 858: Exotic increase one level (But the Wealthy have only a 1% chance to
Features. Re roll any unfavorable or undesirable changes. become Extremely Wealthy).

11 From Here - Return to the Table that sent you here ...
11
522: Superhero Events 56 522: Superhero Events

522: Instructions: If the game system being played is not a

super hero game system, then roll a d20 once on the following table
to determine the character's chance encounter with the world of
super heroes. If the game IS a super hero game, roll 1d3 events on
this table.

Superhero Events Secret Origins: If you are creating a superpowered char­

acter and have not yet determined the origin of his or her powers,
do so NOW.Go to Table 740: Secret Origins.
Use only if directed here by another table Roleplay: Consider the tone of the campaign well ahead of
time.Is it straight hero-bashes-villain stuff, or are the lines of good
This is a foray into the terribly exciting mega-multi-omni­ and evil a bit fuzzy? Is reality something that is clearly defined and
universe of the super-powered super hero. For the most part this explainable, or are there weird things that most people would go
table assumes that the character is either a super hero or a super mad if they knew of such things' existence? Knowing this sort of
hero wannabee. For those who cross over from other genres, thing ahead of time will make it easier for the player who is putting
modify the event to fit your game's rules of logic as necessary. together his hero's background.

d20 522: Superhero Events (roll a d20) d20 522: Superhero Events (continued)
1 The character was formerly associated with a villain, but 6 The character is sponsored by a mysterious patron.Roll
she reformed. Roll 1d4 to determine level of association.Then, Hi/Lo, H i= The character has met the benefactor, Lo = The
consult Table 5228: Reformation for details of her change of character has only long-distance communication with patron.
heart and Table 752: Villains to learn about her evil boss. Consult Table 535: In the Service of . ...
1 The character was a sidekick. 7 The character receives extra training from a respected
2 The character was a henchman. mentor. Roll 1d4to determine which Table to consult.lf the player
3 The character was an equal partner. wishes, the mentor's past may be created.
4 The character was a non-criminal employee. 1 Table 863: Unusual Skills
2 The character falls in love with a superpowered person. 2 Table 853: Gifts and Legacies
Select more details surrounding their relationship on Table 534: 3 Table 860: Psychic Powers
Ah Love! Also roll a d6 on the subtable below: 4 Table 863: Unusual Skills & 853: Gifts & Legacies
1 The beloved is on the wrong side of the law. 8 An incident takes place in which the character gains a new
2 The beloved is an extraterrestrial being. power.Consult Table 540: Secret Origins, beginning with Table
3 The character falls in love with the beloved's secret 5408: Incidents. Consult with your GM regarding the new power.
identity, not the public, super-powered one.
4 Another superpowered being is a rival for the beloved's 9 An incident takes place in which the character is stripped
affections. of a super power for 2d6 months. Consult Table 540: Secret
s The beloved constantly fears for the character's safety Origins, beginning with Table 5408: Incidents. The character
and often over-protects the character. fears the reoccurrence of such an incident.
6 Roll twice more on this subtable. 10 Scientific breakthrough by scientist friend gives the super
3 The character is inducted into a group of 2d6 heroes hero a new gadget.Select it on Table 854D: Wondrous Devices.
united to fight crime. Roll a d6 on the subtable below for details. 11 The character is responsible for an innocent bystander's
1-5 The character is still a member of the group. death.Select the circumstances on Table 538: Death Situations,
6 Character quits in a huff over differing philosophies, then roll for Hi/Lo. Hi= The character is directly responsible, then
operating methods, etc.Roll for Hi/Lo, Hi = Group begs consult Table 522C: Personal Crisis. Lo = The character is
him to stay.Lo = Group says "Good riddance!" indirectly responsible. No recordable effects, though the charac­
7 Group is wiped out by 1d4super villains, and character ter receives bad media exposure for 1 d20 days.
is the only survivor. Consult Table 752: Villains.
8 Group is so inefficient & mishandled that they disband. 12 As a result of a failure to prevent a tragedy, the character
9 The character is kicked out for making a bad mistake suffers a crisis of confidence, and halts heroic career (if any) for
during a mission. 1d12 months. Select the tragedy on Table 520: Tragedies, then
10 The character loses interest in group and leaves. consult Table 522C: Personal Crises.
4 The character was the teen sidekick of an established 13 The character is involved in an adventure that is so mind­
hero.Create the senior hero's background. Use the subtable for twistingly bizarre and reality shattering, so unlike the traditional
entry#3 above to determine the current relationship between the hero vs. villain encounters, that it causes the hero to change his
senior hero and his protege (substituting "senior hero" for group). outlook on reality, life, and the universe. Roll once on Table 312:
Alignment and Attitude, reroll results of "No Personality Trait
s The character has a companion/sidekick. Create this Develops."
friend on Table 750: Companions. Use the subtable for entry #3
above to determine the current relationship between the senior 14 The character becomes noted for the public display of a
hero and his protege (substituting "sidekick" for "character" and p�uliar behavior tag from Table 642£: Behavior Tags.
"character" for "group"). Continued ... �

11 Table 522 continues on the next page ...

11
522: Superhero Events 57 522: Superhero Events

d20 522: Superhero Events (continued) d20 522: Superhero Events (continued)
15 The character intervenes in a seemingly innocent matter, 22 The character leads a double life. Neither identity seems
such as putting out a small fire or rescuing a frightened pet. Yet, to be aware of the other, nor is the world at large aware of her dual
this trivial act foils the plans of a petty criminal who declares the life. In one guise, she is a normal, everyday person - in the other,
character to be his mortal enemy and goes on to become a major a heroic crime-fighter. Decide which personality is the one to be
Villain, with the destruction of the character being numbered played and develop the other as an NPC, using Table 107:
among his goals. Create this nemesis on Table 852: Villains. Parents & NPCs.
16 The character has an encounter with an alien. Select 23 The character was a villain of some renown, but he has
details about the alien on Table 747: Aliens. The roll a d6 on the since reformed (and perhaps became a hero). Consult Table
subtable below. 526: Underworld Events to learn how he become a villain, Table
1 The character and alien have a fight, both initially 752: Villains (begin with 7528) to learn of his sordid career, and
unaware that the other is peaceful, though they eventu­ Table 5228: Retormationtofind how and why he changed sides.
ally discover this, and the character helps the alien 24 Somehow, the character is captured by a villain and an
return home. evil clone copy (either by science or sorcery) is made of him. The
2 The Alien crash lands on Earth and is dying. The char­ public becomes confused as to who is whom, which does nothing
acter does his best to comfort the dying being, who to improve the character's reputation. This evil clone is still out
gives character a gift of gratitude.Roll Hi/Lo. Hi= Select there ...somewhere.
gift on Table 8540: Wondrous Devices. Lo= Select gift
on Table 860: Psychic Powers. 25 The character discovers that he has an evil twin who is a
3 The character battles alien scout. Her actions convince super villain. Create the twin, and consult Table 752: Villains.
the alien race not to invade Earth. 26 The character takes part in a phenomenal, world-span­
4 The character is completely clueless as to the alien's ning, secret crisis which involves most of the world's heroes and
motives, origin, etc. It departs without giving answers. villains. Lots of death and destruction occurs, plus unlikely
5 The character meets/fights an alien Villain interested in alliances against an overwhelming foe. Even though the event
expanding his criminal base of operations to Earth. affects a vast area, it also affects the character in a personal way.
Consult Table 752: Villains. The character is on the winning side (presumably the good guys'
6 The character joined other heroes in repelling a full- side!), but his life is dramatically affected by the events. Roll 1d6
fledged alien invasion. to determine which Tables to consult.
17 The character takes part in a mission that goes horribly 1 1d4 people known to the character die. Select them on
wrong, with the villain triumphing and the hero getting badly Table 743: Others. Randomly select three personality
injured in the process. If the character does not have a nemesis traits on Table 312: Alignment. For each person who dies,
or rival, go to Table 752: Villains to determine the opponent, and use Table 539: Death of a Loved One.
Table 862: Crimes for the incident in question. The resulting 2 The character's personality takes an odd turn. Consult
failure is a blow to the character's self-esteem.Not only must he Table 642: Exotic Personality Traits.
consult Table 522C: Personal Crises, but he also develops a 3 The character is exposed to things men were not meant
Darkside trait from 641C: Darkside Traits and is hit with an injury to know (nor women either!). Select this horror on Table
from Table 859: Serious Wounds. 748: Horrors, and give the character a trait from Table
18 Despite his efforts to the contrary, the public believes the 641C: Oarkside Traits
character to be either a dangerous menace or just plain evil. 4 The character acquires both a companion and a rival.
Consult Table 750: Companions and Table 751: Rivals.
19 Roll twice more on this table. 5 The character acquires an item and an injury.Select them
20 Roll again on this table, adding 1d6 to the result. on Table 853: Gifts and Legacies and Table 859: Serious
Wounds.
21 The character reaps the intangible rewards due to some- 6 A really eventful crisis! Consult ALL results of entries 1-5.
one of her abilities. Select 1 d3 items on Table 854A: Perks.

d6 522B: Reformation (Roll ld6) d6 522C: Personal Crises (Roll ld6)

1 The character has a religious experience, repents, and be­ 1 The character feels like a freak in society.
comes a good guy. Consult Table 533: Religion for details. 2 The character feels that the heroic life is interfering with
2 The character is sickened by evil acts, goes straight. personal and work life.
3 Character tires of heroes beating on him and master plans 3 The character questions his nation's ethics and morality,
going awry. He decides, "If you can't beat 'em, �oln 'em\" an<i 'Nan<i��ll. ���ll.ll.•<:.<::.\lo;\\.� '"' .,,,�-a��\;\ <::J.\ \;\\m.,,,�\\ "o.WC, �\"<>
4 A hero ta�es special interest in character's reforming, and nation's identity.
devotes time and energy to get her onto the straight and 4 A close relative of the character whines and begs her to stop
narrow. Create the hero as an NPC. being a hero. The relative obviously knows character's
5 The character serves prison term and is rehabilitated. Consult secret identity. Consult Table 1040: Other Relations.
Table 532: Imprisoned! 5 The character feels undeserving of his powers and skills.
6 The character is so successful as a villain that "all the fun and , 6 The character feels guilty that she cannot solve all of the
challenge is gone," and, after making restitution for every­ world's problems.
thing he stole, he decides to switch sides.

11 From Here - Return to the Table that sent you here ...
H
523: Horror Events 58

523:
Horror Events
Use only if directed here by another table

There are places, creatures and ... things that lie outside
the experience and knowledge of humankind. Sometimes, the dis­
tance between these places of shadow and fear and our own
realms of experience draw close-too close.
Instructions: If the game system being played is NOT a
horror genre game, roll a d20 once on the following table to select
the character's brush with the dark unknown. If the game IS a
horror game, roll for 1d3 events on this table. All events are
presumed to be linked to some horrible, dark conspiracy. Now, roll
a d6. If the result is less than or equal to the total number of events
rolled on this table, then the character develops an Exotic Person­
ality Trait from Table 642: Exotic Personality Traits due to his or
her exposure to the dark unknown.
Gameplay Notes: The player and GM should assume that thing dark, unexplainable and malign. Maybe you'd still be afraid
the mystery surrounding these events has never been solved or of the dark? That's how your character might feel after this en­
satisfactorily explained. counter with the supernatural. On the other hand, it may have
Roleplay: lmagine that time when you were scared of some­
piqued his or her interest to the point where fear is exchanged for
thing in the dark, a shape, a shadow, a sound. Now imagine that an unquenchable desire to know the truth of what really happened
that dark night.
you didn't imagine it. There really was something there-some-

d.20 523: Horror Events (roll a d.20) d.20 Horror Events (continued ...)
1 A place frightens the character. Roll 2d10. Use the first roll 3 The character suspects that an evil spirit has taken posses­
on Subtable 1A below to determine the place, then use the sion of a familiar object and is responsible for crimes and horrors
second to determine the situation on Subtable18. that have been occurring. Roll a d1O on the subtable below to
Subtable 1A: Place determine what the possessed thing may be.
1 BasemenVCellar 6 Vacant lot 1 Cat 6 Television
2 Attic 7 Locked room 2 Dog 7 Statue
3 Empty house 8Dark wood 3 Car 8 Doll
4 Old barn 9 Abandoned car 4 House 9 Plush Toy
s Empty building 10 Cave 5 Horse 10 Computer
Subtable 1 B: Situation 4 People are being killed and mutilated by someone or some­
1 The shape of something disturbing is outlined on a wall. thing who strikes out of the darkness. Roll a d20 for the number
2 At certain times, a nauseating odor comes from there. of victims. The character knew the latest victim. Select the victim
3 Voices are sometimes heard there. on Table 743:Others. Now, to determine the killer. Roll a d6. On
4 The temperature drops to near freezing. a result of 1-4, the killer is a deranged person. Select killer on
s Something was down there. Select the thing on Table Table 743: Others. On a result of 5, the killer is an inhuman horror,
748: Horrors. selected from Table 748: Horrors. On a result of 6, let your GM
6 Bright lights can be seen there. determine the killer and keep it a secret.
7 Water boils without heat when left there. s The character receives a gift from an unknown source. The
8 An oppressive, even evil, sensation can be felt there. gift is imbued with a feeling of intense evil, yet the character can­
9 Animals react violently to attempts to take them there. not seem to get rid of it. Just recently (before his or her adven­
10 Roll twice again on this subtable and combine the turing career begins), he or she comes across the unpleasant gift
entries in a frightening way. again. Select the item on Table 853: Gifts & Legacies.
2 For a period of several months, people disappearwith no ex­ 6 The character participates in a "hunt"which searches for and
planations. Despite investigations, nothing is ever discovered. destroys a creature who has been plaguing the area. Select the
Just as suddenly, the disappearances stop. The character knew crerture on Table 748: Horrors.
at least 1d3 victims. Select the victims on Table 743: Others. Continued ... �

H Table 523 continues on the next page ...

II
523: Horror Events 59 523: Horror Events

d20 Horror Events (continued ...) d20 Horror Events (continued ...)
7 The character senses the presence of an unquiet spirit. Roll 14 See event number 8, but substitute "relative" for neighbor.
a d10. On a result of 1-3, the presence haunts the character's Select the relation on Table 104: Family.
home. On a result of 4-5, the haunted home is empty. Otherwise, 15 Exposure to this horror either unhinges the character's mind
select the owner of the haunted home on Table 743: Others. GM
ONLY: See entry #523 on Table 965: GM's Specials. slightly or at least convinces others that he is insane. Regardless
of the truth, well-meaning relatives (or friends) have the character
8 The character is convinced that there is a creature lurking committed to an institution. What transpires inside may be even
about. Roll a d6 on the subtable below to determine the location. more horrific than the event that sent him there. If no other Horror
Select the type of creature believed to be there on Table 748: event has been previously rolled, roll again once more to dis­
cover the terrible cause. Then, roll a d6 on the subtable below

I
Horrors.
1 Under his bed 4 In the woods (remember, these are still horror events).
2 In his closet 5 In the sewers 1 Character is mistreated by uncaring (possibly evil?)
3 In the attic 6 In the neighborhood staff members.
2 The character's therapy causes a physical trauma.
9 A neighbor behaves strangely. The character investigates Select the damage on Table 859: Serious Wounds.
out of concern and curiosity only to discover something totally 3 The character's friends discover his plight and rescue
unnerving. The discovery forces the neighbor to flee, but he or him from the institution.
she is still out there ... somewhere. Roll Hi/Lo for neighbor's sex. 4 The character meets an unfortunate soul who has truly
Hi= male. Lo= female. Roll a d1Oto select the neighbor's dark seen things that men were not meant to know, and she
secret. tells the character all about them. Roll the dark secret on
1 Neighbor experimented with animation of the dead. this table. Whatever it is, it somehow relates to the
2 Neighbor was actually a monster. Select the type of character's own experience.
monster on Table 748: Horrors. 5 The character comes to believe that whatever he may
3 Neighbor was a cannibal. A few snacks lie about. have experienced, it was not real.
4 Neighbor collected weird, frightening artifacts. 6 Roll twice more on this subtable.
5 Neighbor was a worker of black magic.
6 Neighbor was a crazed serial killer. 16 The character finds an old book hidden in the false bottom
7 Neighbor experimented with opening portals to other of a trunk in the attic of an empty house. Despite feelings of fear
worlds, planes or dimensions. and dread, the character reads the book and begins to learn
8 Neighbor led a coven of witches. horrible secrets. Accidental recitation of a dark spell inflicts a
9 Neighbor is a villain of world class proportions. Select strange change upon the character. Roll a d6.
details on Table 752: Villains. 1-2 Gain an exotic feature from Table 858: Exotic Features.
10 Neighbor is an alien from another world. Select the 11 3-4 Gain a trait from Table 642: Exotic Personality Traits.
creature type on Table 747: Aliens. 5-6 Both 1-2 and 3-4 are inflicted on the character!
10 The character experiences ghostly apparitions that appear 17 The character senses that a weird change has come over
on a repeating basis. Roll a d20 on the subtable below to select several people close to her, almost like they have become
the nature of the vision. entirely different people. Roll a d6. On a result of 5-6, 1 d4 family
1 Airplane 12 Horse drawn carriage members are involved. The character comes to believe that one
2 Automobile 13 Large truck of the following situations is occurring. Roll a d4.
3 Beautiful woman 14 Shapeless form 1 They are being replaced by emotionless clones.
4 Dog 15 Ship 2 They are being possessed by evil spirits.
5 Drowned person* 16 Skull 3 They are being replaced by shape-changers.
6 Giant black cat 17 Taxi cab 4 They are actually monsters in human guise. Select the
7 Handsome man 18 Train type of monster on Table 748: Horrors.
8 Hearse 19 Troop of soldiers
9 Horse and rider 20 Wolf 18 An evil, depraved cult performs sacrifices in a nearby wood.
10-11 Roll twice again and combine the entries. The character comes upon one of their night time rituals and
• Roll Hi/Lo for sex. Hi = female. Lo= male. witnesses things best left unseen. Roll a d6 on the subtable below
to discover other details the character learns, but wishes that he
11 At an estate auction, the character discovers the journal of hadn't.
one who is obviously mad, yet the character is drawn to learn 1 The cultists knew the character was there.
more of the mad things the writer implies. The book tells of lost 2 One of the character's close friends is a cultist.
cities, hidden knowledge, incredible creatures and worlds that 3 A very prominent member of the community is a cultist.
exist next to our own. Any subsequent rolls on this table are 4 The character's parents (or guardian) are members.
directly linked to the character's discovery! 5 The cultists were attempting a ritual that would end the
12-13 Heroic intervention puts an end to the horrifying events world as we know it.
that the character has experienced. Use Table 743: Others to 6 Roll twice more on this subtable.
determine who caused the web or horror to end. Roll a d6. On a 19-20 Roll three times again on this table and combine the
result of 5-6, the hero sacrifices himself/herself/themselves in the entriE\,S to form one weird and frightening event.
effort. If no other events have been rolled, roll once more on this
table to find what the investigator solves.

11 From Here - Return to the Table that sent you here . . .

11
524: Espionage Events 60 524: Espionage Events

524:
Espionage Events
Use only if directed here by another table d4 524B: Agency Types (Roll ld4)
Behind the scenes of public governmental policies lies the 1 Agency is from character's home country.
world of espionage. Secretive, aloof, a law unto itself, the realm of 2 Agency's country is different than character's, but has
spies and counterspies is filled with plots, counterplots, conspira­ same political ideology.
cies, assassinations, blackmail, and other excitement which make 3 Agency is from a neutral nation, different ideology, but not
life worth living. necessarily for or against character's nation.
4 Agency is from a nation with opposed ideology from the
Instructions: If the game system being played is not an character's home country (a.k.a. "bad guys").
espionage genre game, roll a d20 once on Table524A: Espionage
Events to determine the character's chance encounter with the
world of spies. If the game IS an espionage game, roll for 1d3 dlO 524C: Terrorist Events (Roll ldlO)
events on that table.
Gameplay Notes: If the GM wishes, the events may be 1 Skyjacking. They take control of plane.
linked into one conspiracy. This information is, of course, secret. 2 Bombing. They plant a bomb in a public place.
3 Kidnapping. They kidnap a designated target.
Roleplay: Pat answers and logical explanations are not 4 Arms smuggling. Theyget weapons from outside source.
characteristic of the espionage genre. Phrases like "need to 5 Piracy. They take over a commercial ship.
know," "eyes only," and ''we can neither confirm nor deny" are used 6 Hijacking. They take over a train.
quite often. It is a world of mysteries and conspiracies, whose 7 Drugs. They smuggle drugs for profit.
exact nature can only be found through extensive detective work. 8 Assassination. They kill a public figure.
Learning the truth behind an espionage event could create the 9 Sabotage. They sabotage a public utility.
basis of a character's motivations, or even her career. Such work 10 Robbery. They rob a bank or jewel exchange.
could give the seeker answers, or a quick death.

d20 524A: Espionage Events (roll a d20) d20 524A: Espionage Events (continued)
1 Character discovers that his parents are deep-cover 13-14 Character falls in love with a spy. See Table534: Ah, Love!
moles for a spy agency. Consult Table 5248: Agency types. 15 Character winds up with a package sought by two factions.
2 Character discovers that a relative is an active espionage Roll a d6 to determine its contents:
agent. Consult Table 104O:OtherRelationsforthe relative, and 1 Money (2d1 Ox $1,000) 4 Biological research data
consult Table 5248: Agency types. 11 2 Illegal guns 5 Technological schematics
3 Character is mistaken for a spy. Consult Table 5248: 3 Illegal Drugs 6 Computer Microchip
Agency Types. 16 Character witnesses an espionage incident. Roll 1d8.
4 Character's ancestor was a spy for an early espionage 1 Assassination 5 Defection
organization. Consult Table 853: Gifts and Legacies for the 2 Break-in 6 Smuggling Operation
distinctive heirloom. 3 Surveillance 7 Sabotage
4 Interrogation 8 Rendezvous
5 Regardless of his or her age, the character serves as a n
operative for Military Intelligence. Find the events on Table 527: 17 Character is involved in an accident. Later on, she learns
Military Events. that the accident was planned by a terrorist group. Roll 1d4.
6-8 Character is taken as a hostage in a crime-related event.
Roll for Hi/Lo. Consult Table 862: Crimes. II 1 Train derailment 3 Explosion and fire on a luxury liner
2 Airliner crash 4 Massive automobile pile-up

9 Character is pressed into service as a government espio- 18 Character is set up as a fall guy for a crime, and forced to
nage agent. Refer to Table 416: Government Jobs. work as a spy. Consult Table 862: Crimes to for the crime.
10-11 Character involved in a political or Terrorist Event. Roll for 19 Character is an espionage fan. He wants to be involved in
Hi/Lo. If Hi, consult Table 5248: Terrorist Events.If Lo, consult spy affairs in the worst way, but nothing has ever materialized,
Table 5260: Political Events. until now.... (roll again on this table, rerolling results of 19 or 20).
12 Character is sponsored by a mysterious patron. She soon 20 Character actively dislikes espionage, and would like to
discovers that the patron is grooming her for espionage work. lead a nice, normal life. Yet something does happen. (Roll again
See Table 535: In the Service of ... . on this table, rerolling results of 19 or 20).

_II ----------------------�iiiiiiiiiiiiiii��llj
 525: Pulp Hero Events 61

525:
Pulp Hero Events
Use only if directed here by another table

Return with us now to those thrilling days of yesteryear,

when men were real men and women were dames, and real
heroes were two-fisted adventurers who wore torn shirts, jodhpurs
. of beard (optional for women).
&,.''
and a three-day growth 1�
Instructions: Roll a d20 once on the following table to -­
select the character's brush with the heroic adventure.
Roleplay: Each of these events could be the core of an ad­
venture or the reason that a character takes up a life of adventure.

dlO 525: Pulp Hero Events (roll a dlO) dlO 525: Pulp Hero Events (roll a dlO)
1 The character discovers a careworn (decrepit) vehicle 6 While traveling, the character is caught up in the frenzy
in a shed belonging to an elderly neighbor and he says the of a revolution against the monarch of a small, backwards,
character can have it. Over a period of years, the character isolated country. The character is imprisoned (select events on
repairs and reconditions the vehicle to working condition, though Table 532: Imprisoned.�, but escapes. Regardless of age, the
it's far from perfect. Give the character appropriate mechanical character is instrumental in saving the royal family. Without
skills to Rank 4. Select the vehicle and its features on Table 864: asking permission, the monarch officially betroths the character
Vehicles. Roll 1 d3 times on Table 864L: Liabilities to give it a few to one of his/her young children. The marriage will be finalized
quirks. Select a bright color for the vehicle on Table 855: Colors, when both the character and the child are of age-which occurs
and consider giving it a personalized name. sometime after the character begins adve ntu ring. To complicate
The character is an inventor (of the crackpot variety). matters, the character actually fell in love with a different child,
2 much closer to the character's own age. Of course, the charac­
Nevertheless, he designs and builds a device of astounding ter's beloved is soon to be wed in a politcal marriage and agents
abilities. Select this device on Table 8548: Wondrous Devices. for the aging monarch are afoot in the world, seeking out the
3 Someone the character knows has disappeared in a character for yet another royal wedding.
remote jungle. The circumstances surrounding the person's visit
7 Evil is afoot in the world. Reroll the event on this table.
and subsequent disappearance are hazy and mysterious. Roll a
d6. On a result of 6, the person was quite famous and the Assume that some larger-than-life villain is in some way either
disappearance caused a stir in the newspapers and on the radio. responsible for the event or involved in it in some manner. Use
Though years have gone by, evidence suggests that this person Table 852: Vi/lainsto create this paragon of evil. Assume that this
is still quite alive and dwells in the jungle ... against his or her will. villain appears on a recurring basis to vex the character.
Select the person on Table 743: Others. 8 While travelling in a remote part of the world, the
character undergoes an initiation ritual that marks her part of a
4 A relative was once a masked crime fighter. He or she
has since died and passed legacy of his/her career onto the primitive society. As a by-product of the ritual, the character is
character. This legacy includes 1 d4 items from Table 853: Gifts marked with a colorful scar/tattoo. Select the mark on Table 856:
Birthmarks, its color on Table 855: Colors, and its location on
and Legacies. Each item is somehow related to the task of Table 857: Body Locations. In time of great need, 1 d4 members
fighting crime and/or maintaining a hidden identity. Select the
deceased relative on Table 104D: Other Relations. of this society appear on the scene to aid the character, regard­
less of distance or the character's ability to anticipate such need.
5 While browsing through the library of a friend, the char­
acter discovers a journal describing a lost world, filled with pre­ 9 The character acquires an antique weapon (of her
historic beasts and primitive tribes. The location of the world is choosing) from a strange little shop on a winding side street. The
quality of this weapon is such that it adds one Rank of ability to
hazy, but it seems that someone with determination should be
able to find it. Roll a d6 to select the implied location on the his skill when he uses it. There is writing in a weird script on the
subtable below. weapon. As yet, the character has been unable to decipher it.
1 Earth's Core 4 South Pole 10 A linked series of events catch the character up in their

II 2 Remote Jungle 5 Mountain Valley action and create the scenario that draws him or her into the hero
3 Remote Canyon 6 Undersea Caverns busipess. Reroll on this table 1 d3+ 1 times. All these events are
linked in some plausible (or even implausible) manner.

11 From Here - Return to the Table that sent you here ...
II
526: Underworld Events 62 526: Underworld Events

526:
Underworld
Events
Use only if directed here by another table
ld6 526B: Type of Crimes (roll a d6)
When a character becomes involved with criminals, he 1 Petty theft. The character and several pals steal things they
often follows their ways and learns their skills. A character with want or need. They act in violation of any organized crime
underworld experience may not become a professional criminal, syndicates.
but he will certainly be wiser about criminals' ways and customs. 2 Organized burglary gang. The character works under the
Instructions: The first of the three things that a criminal direction of gang leaders. The thieves are not a crime
network and limit themselves to stealing and smuggling.
character must do on this table is determine how he became in­ Organized crime. This is a crime network which sets high
volved in criminal activities on Table 526A: The Wrong Path. Roll 3
a d1o to select this. Then roll a d6 and match the result against morals and standards for its own members, but treats the
Table 5268: Type of Crimes to select the general type of activity rest of the world as ripe for plunder. A character who
becomes involved with organized crime should go to Table
that the character undertakes. Finally go to Table 526C: Crime
Events. Roll a d3 for the number of events that occur. Then roll a 862: Crimes, and make 1d4 rolls for the types of crimes he
d20 for each event, matching the result against that table. regularly commits (ignore footnotes). The character gains
1d4 Ranks in a weapon skill of his choice (such as pistol,
Roleplay: Possibly the character has not become a criminal knife, fists, automatic weapon.)
himself, and is only involved with them. How does the character 4 Independent criminal. The character is heavily involved in
feel aboutthis criminal past? Is he still a criminal or has he reformed one or more of the following activities. Roll a d10 on the sub­
and gone "straight?" table below:
1 Prostitution
2 Assassination
ldlO 526A: The Wrong Path (roll a dlO) 3 Burglary
1 The character needs money to pay debts. 4 Smuggling
2 Peer pressure "forces" character to do criminal acts. 5 Illegal gambling
3 The character has a pathological urge to do wrong. 6 Computer hacking (data theft & destruction)
4 The character wants to defy authority. 7 Selling illegal drugs or pleasure stimulators
5 The character feels he is punishing those responsible for 8 Robbing banks, stores and money machines
misdeeds done to him. 9 Kidnapping
6 The characterwants to live a lifestyle he could otherwise not 10 Roll again 1d2+1 times on this table. Reroll duplicates.
afford. 5 Political Criminal. Roll for political crime events on Table
7 The character seeks a lifestyle filled with dangerous thrills 5260: Political Events (do not use regular crime events).
and excitement. 6 Banditry. The character is part of a gang of rural bandits who
8 The character seeks to wield power in the crime world. prey on the nearby countryside.
9 The character is forced into a life a crime by criminals who
threaten his loved ones.
10 Roll two more times on this table and combine the results
in some logical manner. Reroll duplicates. d20 526C: Crime Events (Roll a d20)
1 Join a street gang. Members are usually of the character's
same age and sex. Give the gang a name, such as the
Homeboyz, Rifs, Sharks, Nasty Pretties, etc.
2 Jailed for a few days in a sweep of the streets by law en­
forcement officials.
3 Character is seriously wounded in a fight. Select injury on
Table 859: Serious Wounds.
4 Whenever a crime occurs in a city, the character is auto­
matically a suspect, even if law enforcement officials are
, unfamiliar with his past. The character just looks like a
hardened criminal.

u
Continued ... �

Table 526 continues on the next page ...

11
 526: Underworld Events 63 526: Underworld Events
I
■

ld20 Table 528C (continued ...)

Character becomes an informant for the law. Roll a d6. On
\
5
a result of 6, the character is labeled a snitch by the under­
world and has a contract out on her life.
6 Character participates in a large heist, only to have his
partners vanish with the loot. There were 1d4 others in­
volved and the valuables have never reappeared. GM: This
is an chance to create either a revenge adventure or a
recapture scenario (depending on which side of the law the
character now stands).
7 A key gang boss is killed and the character is blamed.
Members of the slain boss's gang seek character's death. 526D: Political Crime Events
8 The character is imprisoned fora crime. Select the crime on
Table 862: Crimes, then determine the length of imprison­
ment. After being treed, the character goes straight, but I Use only if directed here by another table
maintains her underworld contacts.
9 The character acquires 1d4 Ranks of skill as a thief (all . Some crimes are committed in order to further the political
thieving skills are learned at this skill rating). Thieving skills aims of the character or a cause that she believes in. Acts of
include wall climbing, lock picking, hiding, moving silently, r�volution and terrorism have been prevalent throughout the
disarming traps, security & surveillance devices, picking history of the 20th century. If the world perceives that the target of
pockets, blueprint reading and evaluating stolen goods. their actions is corrupt or unjust, then these people are freedom
10 The character chooses to go straight, ending his life of fighters. If not, they are terrorists, the worst scum of the earth. The
crime. Still, he is often recognized by criminals who remem­ character is assumed to belong to one such group.
ber him from the "old days." Instructions: Roll a d3 to determine the number of Political
11 The character develops extensive contacts in the under­ Crime events. Roll a d1Oto select each event. Compare the die roll
world, including thieves, informants, smugglers, thugs, _
result against the table below. Reroll any duplicates. The events
fences, and spies. So long as she does not turn in her
are assumed to take place in the character's own home country.
former cronies, they remain friendly and can even serve as Then return to Table 526Cto roll any additional criminal events.
allies in "legal" activities.
12 The character learns the sewers of his home town (or a
nearby city) as well as she knows the back of her hand. This
knowledge is also useful in other cities, since waste and dlO 526D: Political Events (roll a dlO)
service systems tend to be built along similar lines.
13 The character learns the secret passages, entrances and 1 A bomb is planted aboard a commercial airliner. All passen­
exits to an important local leader's estate. gers on the plane are killed, along with several people on
14 The character discovers that several items taken in a recent th� ground. While her fellows rejoice, the character secretly
heist are allegedly "cursed." No fence will take them and grieves for the dead and reconsiders her own beliefs.
even the owner is making no attempts to recover his 2 A bomb is detonated in a public shopping area. The person
property. Select 1d3 items on Table 853: Gifts & Legacies. �ho set the bomb, one of the character's friends, is killed
GM Only: see entry #526 on Table 965: GM's Specials. m the blast, along with 1d20 innocent bystanders.
15 A crim� lord becomes the character's patron, and begins 3 The head of the opposition party is gunned down in front of
grooming the character to be a leader of organized crime. his family and friends by members of the group.
16 The character's friends are being killed off in horrible ways. 4 Member of the group rebel against the current groupleader
Law enforcement officials are uninterested in stopping the and the character is voted in as leader. The old leader
killer, since only criminals are being slain. Soon only the escapes and vows revenge on the rebels andtheir leader.
character and one other are left. 5 The group takes an important foreigner as a hostage. From
17 The character discovers that a prominent and popular the captive, the character learns that his group is wrong and
government official is really the head of a major crime ring. their targets are correct. The character helps the hostage
Roll a d6. On a result of 1-4, the official is unaware of the escape in return for guarantee of his own safety.
character's knowledge. On a result of 5-6, the official thinks 6 Members of the group engage in a fire-fight with govern­
the character should be silenced. ment troops and are gunned down without mercy. Only the
18 The character learns an unusual skill. Select the skill on character escapes.
Table 863: Unusual Skills. 7 The character learns that the group is really a government
steals_ and hides a valuable, but quite distinc­ sponsored organization whose violent acts are designed to
19 '.he character
_ make the government look good in comparison.
tive obJect worth 5 0 times her normal "starting money." The
object has remained hidden until the present (or until a 8 The character participates in the assassination of an impor­
beginning character starts adventuring), but when she goes tant foreign government leader.
to reclaim the thing, it's gone. She discovers that it's now 9' The character participates in a coup that deposes the gov­
owned by one of her criminal '1riends." Reclaiming the ernment in power. He suddenly finds that the new govern­
object would give the character much money. ment has little use for ex-terrorists and flees for his life.
20 The character becomes the leader of a gang. 10 Reroll the event. The event takes place in a politically
powerful foreign country.

.a
527: Military Events 64 527: Military Events

527:
acter has entered the service of his or her own nation's military. On
a result of 9-1o, the army serves a foreign government.
Duration of Enlistment: A standard military enlistment is
four years. This time period begins at the age when the character
enters the military. Events may result in an early mustering out, or

Military
reenlistment. Military service may increase the "adult" years prior
to a character's adventuring career.
Select the events: Roll a d3 to determine the number of

Events
events that occur during the military hitch. For each event, roll a
d20 and match the result against the table below (527 ). These
events occur in addition to any significant events that would nor­
mally occur during the current period of the character's life.
Use only if directed here by another table Noncom bat Notes: All Noncombatant troops add 5to the d20
event rolls. Determine the age at which an event occurs by rolling
Instructions: Follow the steps below. a d4. The result corresponds to a year within the hitch period. A roll
of 1 indicates it happens during the first, year, a roll of 2 during the
Select the service: Go to Table529: Military Duties to select second year and so on.
the character's branch of military service. Getting Out: When the character leaves the military, he
Select the rank: Then go to Table 530: Military Rank and often gets additional benefits. See Mustering Out benefits under
select the character's rank in the military. Table 530: Military Rank.
Select the skills: If in a combat unit, go to Table531: Military Back Again?: If another Significant Event directs the charac­
Skills and select the skills which the character learns while en­ ter into the military again, the character retains his former rank
listed. The next step is to find out who runs the army. (regardless of whether or not he rejoins the same unit). Rationale:
Select the leader: Roll a d10. If the result is 1 to 8, the char- Leadership skills are obvious to other leaders.

d20 527: Military Events (roll a d20) d20 527: Military Events (Continued ... )
1-6 Conflict! Character is involved in a major battle. To find 17 Character reenlists in a different branch of service for
the battle's outcome, go to Table 528: Combat! another four year hitch, and another 1 d4 Military Events. Select
the branch of service on Table 529: Military Duties.
7-8 Character reenlists in his branch of service for another
four year hitch, and another 1d4 Military Events. Roll a d6. On a 18 Character learns a new weapon skill (player's choice).
result of 6, he is promoted one rank.
19 The character's hitch is extended by 1d4 years because
9 Character's prowess and obvious smarts earn him a a major war breaks out. The fighting is intense. Roll two additional
reassignment to a Special Duties unitfor the rest of his enlistment events for each year of extension. Subtract 5 from those event
hitch. Select the new unit on Table 5298: Special Duties. rolls due to the increase in battles.
10 Character is transferred to a Noncombat unit for the re­ 20-21 Fierce fighting breaks out. The situation is grim. All Non­
mainder of his enlistment hitch. Select the new unit on Table combat troops are put in the field as light infantry. Determine the
5298: Special Duties. Rero/1 until a noncombat unit is obtained. enemy by rolling a d1O on the subtable below. The character's
11 Character is trained to become an officer of minimum unit is in the thickest fighting for months and sees more action
than most. 1d4+1 battles occur. Using Table 528: Combat/to
rank (or promoted one rank if already an officer). Add 1d3 skill determine the outcome of each battle and the effects on the
Ranks to his existing Military Skills. character.
12 Character's unit is involved in numerous skirmishes. Roll 1-3 Forces from a neighboring country.
a d10. On a result of 8-1O, resolve the battle on Table 528: 4-5 Multi-nation war (like a world war).
Combat! 6-7 A multi-faction civil war.
13 Character's unit is ambushed by a superior force. Re­ 7 Rebellion against a government.
solve the battle on Table528: Combat!, but subtract 1d4 from the 8 A war to determine a new ruler in another country.
first d20 roll (character's side). 9 An evil dictator's personal army.
10 A massive invasion of unknown enemies.
14 Character's unit is involved in a plot to overthrow the gov­
ernment and take control. A battle is fought. Resolve the battle on 22-23 Character increases one occupation skill by one Rank of
Table528: Combat! If the character's side wins, the command­ ability (player's choice).
ing general of the unit becomes the new ruler. If the character's 24 Character's unit is assigned to a combat unit in the field.
side loses, all the troops in the unit are declared to be traitorous Roll the event again, but do not add +5 Noncombat bonus.
terrorists and are made outlaws.
25 If the character is not a commissioned officer, he attends
15 The character is promoted one rank. Officer Candidate School. If he is a commissioned officer, he is
16 Disease ravages the army. Roll a d6. On a result of 6, the promoted one rank. Character is then reassigned to a combat
character becomes sensitive to the cold and damp, as if he had uni\within his general branch of service (Army, Navy, Air Force).
an allergy to it (see Table 6420: Allergies). Select new unit on Table 532A: Branch of Service, using the
subtable that applies to the character's current branch of service.

11 From Here - Return to the Table that sent you here ...
,,
528: Combat! 65 528: Combat!

528:
Combat!
Use only if directed here by another table

Combat! resolves any military clashes resulting from a

character's military career (see Table 527: Military Events).
Instructions: To resolve a battle follow the steps below:
1. Battle Rolls. Roll a d20 twice and write down each die
result. The first roll represents the character's forces. The second
roll represents his enemy.
2. Victory Bonuses. If the character's military rank is a
captain or higher add 1 point to the character's die roll for each
previous combat victory (that is, combats won using this table).
Maximum number point adds is limited to 3 points.
3. Win or Lose? The higher die total wins the battle. If the
results are equal, both sides are forced from the field without a
decisive victor. Record the outcome on your worksheet. and match the resulting number against the table below for
4. Battle Events. Subtractthe lower die resultfrom the higher additional battle results.

528: Battle Events (use battle outcome result) 528: Battle Events (continued ... )
0-1 The carnage was awesome. 1d100% of the character's 14 Character fought well. Many foe died at his hands. Roll a
side was killed. The character almost died when he received a d6. On a result of 5-6, the character may improve one weapon
grave injury. Roll a d6. On a result of 6, the character's military skill by one Rank of ability.
career ends. Determine the injury on Table 859: Serious Wounds. 15 Regardless of the outcome of this battle, the character
2 Serious casualties. Character was injured and has an im­ performed a successful heroic mission that did real damage to
pressive scar to show for it. the enemy's ability to wage war. Because of this, the conflict ends
in 1d6 months and innumerable lives are saved.
3 The horror of it all causes the character to develop an
exotic personality trait from Table 642: Exotic Personality Traits. 16 Character messes up royally in battle and is personally
responsible for the deaths of (1d10 multiplied by his military rank
4 Character's best friend dies at his side. #) of his comrades or followers.
5 Character is the only survivor of his unit. 17 An act of the character reverses the battle's outcome (a
6-7 Roll a d20 1d3+1 times on this subtable. Reroll conflicting losing battle is won, a winning battle lost). Roll a d6. On a result
and duplicate results. of 6, he is recognized for it (A loser is demoted 1d3 ranks, a
winner is promoted one rank).
8-9 Character sees action, but nothing noteworthy.
18 Character's immediate superior officer is slain and he as­
10 Character fought well and with notable heroism. Many sumes command (effectively a field promotion, by one rank. If
comrades owe their lives to his heroics. The character is pro­ this is rolled again, he advances yet another rank).
moted one rank for his valor (or made a commissioned officer if
not an officer). Roll a d6. On a result of 4-6, the character may 19 Regardless of his performance in battle, the character is
improve one weapon skill by one Rank of ability. accused of dereliction of duty and is court-martialed and de­
moted one rank.
11 Character is captured and imprisoned. Military service
ends with this event (do not roll any more military events). Deter­ 20 Character slays the leader of the enemy unit in a personal
mine events of imprisonment on Table 532: Imprisoned! confrontation.
12 Regardless of the battle's outcome, the character is 21 The victor's side suffers light casualties. Roll 2d1O on this
decorated for his heroism. subtable for one additional event (reroll results that indicate
casualties that conflict with this table entry).
13 Character was a coward in battle. Roll a d6. On a result
of 1-4, no one else noticed, but he must live with his actions. On 22t The loser's side is utterly destroyed. Character is pro-
a result of 5-6 the character is demoted 1d3 ranks for cowardice. moted one Rank for personal valor.

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11
529: Military Duties 66 529: Military Duties

529:
Military Duties 529B: Special Duties
Use only if directed here by another Table

Use only if directed here by another table Instructions: Roll a d20 and match the result against the
table below to select the branch of Special Duty service that the
These are the general tasks which men and women in the character enters. Select military skills on Table 531: Military Skills
military service may perform. In reality, the proportion of noncom­ only if directed to do so by a numbered footnote.
batant troops to combat troops is much, much higher than sug­
gested here. The balance is changed here for dramatic purposes.
d20 529B: Special Duties (roll a d20)
Instructions: Roll a d4 and match the result against the
Table 529A: Branch of Service to select the character's duties. 1-2 Support occupation. Select an occupation on Table
413: Occupations. Reroll any absurdities.©
3 Medical corps. Enlisted character is trained as a field
d6 529A: Branch of Service (Roll a d6) paramedic. Officers are doctors and nurses. Begin with
Rank 2 first aid skill. Gain 1 Rank of skill for each
1-2 Army. These are troops who slug it out on the ground. additional 2 years in this service. ©
Roll a d10 on the subtable below to select the type of service. 4 Recruiter. Character's unit recruits new personnel for
1 Infantry. Foot soldiers. the military. ©
2 Airborne Infantry. Paratroopers. 5 Quartermaster corps. Provide supplies. ©
3 Mechanized Infantry. Infantry in armored vehicles. 6 Instructor (only if character has prior military experi-
4 Field Artillery. Howitzers & Rockets. ence, otherwise, reroll on this table). ©
5 Air Cavalry. Helicopters and light planes.* 7 Engineer. Design & build camps, bridges, etc. ©
6 Armored Cavalry. Tanks. 8 Technician. Operate, maintain & repair equipment.
7 Technical Specialist. Frontline technician. 9 Office worker. ©
8-9 Special Duty. Select duties on Table 5298: Special 10 Military police. @
Duties. 11-14 Rangers. Wilderness masters. Deadly warriors who
10 Helicopter Pilot. Flies rotary-wing aircraft.• can operate behind enemy lines. @ ®
15-16 Recon. Like the Rangers, they are adept in the Wilder­
3-4 Navy. These are the ships who prowl the seas and the ness, but their focus is information gathering and not as
troops who guard them. Roll a d1 O on the subtable below to much on combat. @ ®
select the type of service. 17 Sniper. Specialist in infiltration and hitting long range
1 Marines. Amphibious assault troops. targets.@®
2 Gunnery. Fire the big guns. 18 Special Operatives. Best of the best. They are the elite
3 Fighter Pilot. • warriors - superbly trained for quick, surgical strikes
4 Bomber Pilot.• behind enemy lines. @ ® ®
5 Helicopter Pilot.• 19 Espionage. Infiltrate the enemy, and return with key
6 Submarines. information. @
7 Technical Specialist. Frontline technician. 20 Intelligence. Interpret information about the enemy.©
8-9 Special Duty. Select duties on Table 5298: Special
Duties.
10 Flight Crew. Aircraft mechanics. Footnotes
5-6 Air Force. These are the pride of the skies. Roll a d6 on <:D No military skills gained in this service (beyond basics), unless
the subtable below to select the type of service. transferred to a combat unit.
1 Fighter Pilot.• ® Character gains military skills on Table 531: Military Skills as if
assigned to an infantry unit.
2 Bomber Pilot.*
@ Gains skills as infantry, but add 1 d4 additional Combat skills,
3 Transport Pilot. Flies large cargo craft.* selected on Table 531: Military Skills.
4 Ground Assault Pilot.• © Gains skills as infantry, but add 1 d2 additional combat skills. Select
5 Technical Specialist. Frontline technician. skills on Table 531: Military Skills.
6 Ground Crew. Aircraft Mechanic. @ Gains +d6 Special Survival Skills. Select skills on Table 531C
7-8 Special duty. Select duties on Table 5298: Special Special Survival Skills.
Duties. @ Treat as infantry, but gain one additional combat skill, Disguise at
1 d4+ 1 Ranks of skill. Gain 1 d4 Ranks of thieving skills. Select military
* Character must be an officer to be a pilot. Otherwise, the skills on Table 531: Military Skills.
character is a ground crewman. ® ' Gains +3 Ranks of Camouflage & Concealment skill and +3 Ranks
of Ranged Weapon skill.

From Here - Return to the Table that sent you here . . .

11
530: Military Rank 67 530: Military Rank
,r�,,;----
---

530:
....... �

··.;·::
',0.· . .
-'1'!'�.... \ -. : ..-,·.e.
:;'.ARMY_;w;:1•� ·,--·
. . .. . •,

. . -4
.,

Military Rank
-
. . ,.....----

JOI
military, he has a percentage chance equal to his rank#to find 1d3
Use only if directed here by another table veterans of his unit in a major city (GM's discretion). Ad100 result
of 95 or greater always fails. If the character's rank#is greater than
100, his chance to find former comrades is 100%, but a percentile
In the military, rank is everything. Those who lead are sup­ dice roll must still be made. Furthermore, divide the over-100 rank
posed to be superior to those who follow (in theory). In most cases, # by 100. The result is the number of d6 to be rolled to find the
special education is required to become an officer. Yet this is not number of former troops now available.
always the case. Former comrades will remember the character and might still
Instructions: If a character's previous background events be loyal to him, willing to become faithful henchmen, or may hate
or education have included military academy training, the charac­ him for his actions and failures. Former comrades are not neces­
ter automatically enters the service as an officer of minimum rank sarily the character's friends.
(rank 13). Without a military academy background, all other player Roleplay: True leadership skills are not found in everyone.
characters enter as minimum rank enlisted men. Even though a character's family is able to initially influence an
Player Character Military Rank: A beginning non-officer PC officer's commission for him, this does not make him a leader. Is
character always begins at the minimum rank for his branch of the the character loved by his former comrades or hatedfor failures on
service, as shown in Table 530A: Enlisted Rank. Unless he gets the battlefield, ashamed to show his face where soldiers gather?
officer training through an event, he cannot rise above the maxi­
mum rank listed on that table. A beginning officer PC character
always begins at the minimum officer rank for his branch of service,
as shown on Table 5308: Commissioned Rank. Such a character 530B: Commissioned Rank
may rise through promotion or appointment to the top of that table.
NPC Military Rank: Roll a d1o and add the character's
d10 Rk# Army/Air/Mar. Navy
So/Mod. Match the result against Tables 530A & 5308. This gives 13-14 5 2nd Lieutenant Ensign
the NPC's Rank. 15-16 10 1st Lieutenant Lieutenant junior grade (jg)
Rank#: This value is used to determine mustering out benefits 17 25 Captain Lieutenant (Lt,)
(see below), and the number of men the character's actions can
directly effect during Military Events (Table 527: Military Events). 18 50 Major Lt. Commander
19 200 Lt. Colonel Commander
Mustering out benefits: "Mustering out" means leaving
the military. Upon finally leaving the military, the character receives 20 500 Colonel @ Captain @
a bonus of cash. This amounts to a number of credits equal to 100 21 1,000 General @ Admiral @
times the character's rank#, plus 1x rank#for each year of service. 22 5,000 Field Marshal © Admiral of the Fleet©
Thus a character who leaves the army as a Captain after two
hitches (8 years) is paid 25x 100 + 25x 8 credits (or an additional 23 10,000 Commander in Chief©®
2,700 credits on top of his starting money). 24+ 50,000 Dictator ©®
Officer Benefits: Military officers gain the following:
1 ). Training: Each time a character advances in military rank,
Footnotes
he may either chose a military skill to improve by one skill Rank or
Add+ 1 to So/Mod for all future uses (Max of 15).
(j)
choose a new skill from Table 531: Military Skills. New skills mustAdd+2 to So/Mod for all future uses (Max of 15).
®
be appropriate to the character's service branch. Add+3 to So/Mod for all future uses (Max of 15).
@
2). Comrades: If an officer's unit survived his hitch in the Add+5 to So/Mod for all future uses (Max of 15).
@
@ Commander of all military
forces in the land.
530A: Enlisted Rank (NPCs: roll a dlO+SolMod) @ The character is assumed to
d10 Rk# Army Air Force Marines Navy have usurped the leadership,
taking it by force. Such a
1-5 Private Airman Private Seaman domain is held so long as the
6-7 2 Spec4 Senior Airman Lance Corporal 3rd Class Petty Officer character has military back­
ing. A character who "retires"
8 5 Sergeant Sergeant Sergeant Bo'sun from being a ruler usually
9 10 Staff Sergeant Staff Sergeant Staff Sergeant Petty Officer 2nd Class does so because he forced
out by a political revolution or
10 20 Platoon Sergeant Technical Sergeant Gunnery Sergeant Petty Officer 1 st Class Chief "Coup." The Mustering out
11 50 Master Sergean Master Sergeant Master Sergeant Chief Petty Officer (CPO) CD benefits are looted from the
national treasury.
12 100 Sergeant Major First Sergeant Sergeant Major Senior CPO@

H From Here - Return to the Table that sent you here ...
II
531: Military Skills 68 531: Military Skills

531:
,\"\- V, - -
(, /;, fh'C �
,::=================I ,; -----·
. ·• ·. . .. ·

1
'

. . .\ ... ::..·. .
--�--eo· �
f'.
.,-

·' .

. �.
Military Skills
. .

. ...
Use only if directed here by another table
dlO 531C: Special Survival skills
Instructions: Skills depend on the branch of military.
Basic Skills: First, give the character the following skills, 1 Tracking (following tracks).
regardless of branch or duties (choose specific weapons): 2 Find food (plant & animal).
3 Camouflage & Concealment. This is an ability to move
Rank 2 in a ranged combat weapon (rifle, pistol, etc.) across a battlefield unseen and hide things in plain sight.
Rank 1 in martial arts (hand to hand combat) 4 Trailing (following someone unseen).
+ 1 Rank to Wilderness Survival skill 5 Pathfinding. Finding one's way in the wilderness.
Service Skills: Use Table 531A: Service Skills to find what 6 Find water (know if its drinkable).
skills the character has. Cross reference the character's duties 7 Make traps & deadfalls with natural items.
with the Table columns. The number in each column (if any) 8 Making own shelter (against cold & damp).
represents the number of rolls the character may make on that 9 Specialize in survival in a specific environment. Choose
experience table. Use all duties or branches of service (Army, hostile, forest, jungle, desert, mountain, or winter.
Navy, etc.) that apply to the character (such as being infantry or a 10 Improve an existing military skill by 1 d3 Ranks.
helicopter pilot). The first roll of a skill is always learned at Rank 3
ability. Duplicate rolls add 1 Rank to the skill.
dlO 531D: Naval skills
Table 531A: Service Skills 1 Swimming.
Service &/or Duty B C D E F 2 Handle small boats.
Air Cavalry 2 3 Sail large craft.
4 Gunnery. Use & maintain the on-board weapons systems.
Air Force 1
5 Computers. Operate, program and maintain them.
Armored Cavalry 1 2
6 Ship maintenance & repair.
Army 2 1
7 Climbing
Field Artillery 2 8 Navigation.
Gunnery 2 9 Communications and sensors.
Helicopter Pilot 2 10 Improve an existing military skill by 1 d3 Ranks.
Infantry 3 1
Marines 2 2
Navy 1 3 dlO 531E: Aerospace skills
Pilot 2
Submarines 3 1 Pilot single engine fixed-wing aircraft (officers only).
Technical Specialist 1 2 Pilot multi-engine fixed-wing aircraft (officers only).
3 Pilot rotor-wing aircraft (helicopter) (officers only).
4 Gunnery. Use & maintain the on-board weapons systems.
dlO 531B: Combat skills 5 Communications.
6 Aircraft maintenance and repair.
1 Improve ranged weapon skill (of choice) by one Rank. 7 Computers. Operate, program and maintain them.
2 First aid. Reduce severity of damage by Rank x 5%. 8 Fighter craft combat techniques (officers only).
3 Survival sense. Modify attacks against character by 1 point 9 Communications and sensors.
(in the character's favor). 10 Improve an existing military skill by 1 d3 Ranks.
4 Martial Arts. This is expert hand-to-hand combat.
5 Military strategy (change die results on Table 528: Combat!
by 1 point in character's favor- up to 3 points). d6 531F: Vehicle skills
6 Learn additional weapon skill of choice.
7 See weaknesses. Can see foe's weaknesses and thus gain 1 Drive unit's main vehicle.
a+ 1 attack bonus for each ranking with this skill. 2 Trick driving. Special stunts & survival tactics.
8 Endurance exercises. For each 2 Ranks with this skill, the 3 Field repair damaged vehicles.
character can improve his Constitution attribute by 1 point. 4 Gunnery. Use & maintain the on-board weapons systems.
9 Field repair of weapons and armor. 5' Drive other vehicle (one not used by unit).
10 Improve an existing military skill by 1 d3 Ranks. 6 Improve an existing military skill by 1 d3 Ranks.

11 From Here - Return to the Table that sent you here ...
H
532: Imprisoned! 69 532: Imprisoned!

532:
result. Compare the total against Table 532A: Prison Type to
determine where the character is punished or rehabilitated.
Duration: The type of crime determines the number of years
imprisoned. Imprisonment begins at the age determined for it (see
"Age" under Table 208: Significant Events of Childhood & Adoles­
cenceor Instructions under Table211: Significant Events of Adult­
Imprisoned! hood. Imprisonment that begins in childhood may overlap into ado­
lescence. Adolescence Imprisonment may extend into adulthood.
Imprisonment beginning in adulthood may further increase the
"adult" years prior to a character's adventuring career.
Use only if directed here by another table Events: Roll a d3 to determine the number of events that occur
during the period of imprisonment. For each event, roll a d1o and
Barbaric societies have a simple way to punish criminals­ match the result against Table 5328: Prison Events below. Follow
they kill them and have it done with. Prison is an enlightened directions if use of other tables is indicated. For each event (except
society's way of dealing justice to transgressors of the law. escape or early pardon-see events below), you may select the
Prisons in the 20th century span a wide variety of conditions age at which it occurs (within the period of imprisonment), rather
and theories in the way they deal with the punishment and or than roll dice to determine the age.
rehabilitation of offenders. They may be the traditional dungeon Roleplay: Generally speaking, those imprisoned for com­
with dank, dark cells, or walled compounds with no individual mitting crimes deserve their punishment, but are not necessarily
rooms or privacy, or luxurious camps where influential non-violent deserving of other events that take place while imprisoned. If the
prisoners learn the errors of their ways(and play a lot of tennis!). character is imprisoned uustly or unjustly), imagine his attitudes
The material here is fictional, and in no way represents any toward fellow prisoners, the guards and those who run the prison.
particular prison system, present or past.
While it is true that most folk found in prison deserve their fate, ldlO Table 532A: Prison Type(roll ld10-t8olMod)
it can also be said that some are there who should not be there.
They had the misfortune to either be at the wrong place at the 1 Horrible pit-like dungeon cells
wrong time, look like somebody else, or be on the losing side of an 2-4 High security cells
argument with someone who wielded political power corruptly. 3-9 Medium security work camp
10 Re roll, but do not add So/Mod
Instructions: If the table that sent the character here did 11-15 Low security farm
not specify a crime, go to Table 862: Crimes and select a crime and 16 Reroll, but do not add So/Mod
punishment (number of years to be imprisoned), then return here.
17+ Low security luxury camp
Prison Type: Roll a d 1O and add the character's So/Modto the

dlO 532B: Prison Events (Roll ldlO) dlO 532B: Prison Events (continued ... )
1 The character escaped. Roll a d100 to determine the per­
s The character serves out his sentence in a special type of
centage of the prison term served. Example: a character escapes punishment. Roll a d4 on the subtable below.
after serving 60% of an 11 year sentence, serving only 6 1/2 1 Character learns a trade at Rank 3 skiI I. Select an oc­
years. Roll a d8 on the the subtable below. cupation on Table 413: Occupations.
1-2 A reward of 1d20 x 1,000 dollars is offered. 2 Character is sent to isolation for his own or another's
3-4 1d6 other prisoners accompanied the character. safety.
S A guard aided the prisoners in their escape. 3 Character is placed in a work gang. Add 1 point to
6 The characte r was forced to kill a particularly corrupt Strength attribute.
guard during the escape. If caught, the character's 4 Character works in an unhealthy environment.
life will be forfeit (work this out during game play). Subtract 1 point from Constitution attribute.
7 A prisoner who escaped with the character is a 6-7 Character learns thieving skills at 1d3+1 skill Ranks.
powerful criminal (Find type on Table 862: Crimes).
He goes relatively straight after escaping, and be­ 8 Character escapes, but is caught. Add 5 years to sentence
comes the character's patron. Select details on duration and 1 additional event roll on this table.
Table 535: In the Service of ... beginning with 5358. 9 Character participates in a prison uprising. Roll a d6. On a
8 Roll twice more on this subtable. Duplicate results result of 6, the character leads the uprising. Roll a d6 again. If the
indicate a doubling of the earlier roll (a reward would result is 4 to 6, the uprising succeeds. Otherwise it fails. Roll a d6
be doubled, two guards aided the escape, more than a third time. If the result is 6, 1d1 O guards are killed. If the uprising
one guard was slain, etc.) succeeds, the character escapes (determine details on the
2 A general amnesty is declared. The character is freed after subtable below Event #1). If the character is the leader of a suc­
serving only 1d10 x10% of his sentence (do not make any more cessful uprising, he or she continues to lead 1d6 low-ability NPC
event rolls on this table). followers (see Table 750C: Companions-What Kind of Guy?).
If the revolt fails, the character is tortured and receives a grave,
3 A disease ravages the prison. The character survives and permanent injury. Select the injury on Table 859: Serious Wounds.
gains fame as a tender of the sick. Surviving prisoners and
guards treat the character as a hero. Gain Rank 1 medic skill. 10, Character is tortured and receives a grave injury. Select the
injury on Table 860: Serious Wounds.
4 Character is beaten frequently by cruel guards.

11 From Here - Return to the Table that sent you here ...
11
 t.lt.Jt.Je 1 Hostile encounter. Followers of the religion are persecut­
ing unbelievers.
2 Evangelism. Believers share their faith with the character

Religion
in hopes of gaining a new follower.
3 Curiosity. The character hears stories of the religion and
goes to personally investigate.
4 An Inner need. The character feels he must seek out the
believers of religion.
Use only if directed here by another table 5 Voices. The character hears voices inside her head.
6 Parent's religion. The character has grown up with this
In the turbulent times of the 20th century, with its globe­ religion, but is now personally confronted by it.
spanning wars, all-pervasive, morally degenerating media, and 7 Friend's religion. A friend invites the character to come
deceptive cultic influences, mankind's need for God, truth, and to a worship service.
salvation has never been greater. 8 Refuge. In a time of personal crisis, the church was a
Being sent here does not necessarily mean that the character warm, dry place with an open door.
"gets religion," or becomes a member of the clergy, or even a 9 A chance encounter. In a lonely place, the character
member of a religion. It indicates a brush with the supernatural, an meets a intriguing follower of the faith.
encounter with the followers of a religion (or pseudo-religion), orin 10 Healing. The clergy of the faith heal the character of an
the extreme, a personal awareness of a higher power's influence injury or illness (possibly of a Serious Wound).
in one's life. All events are assumed to revolve around a single
deity, religion or cult. Consider both the time period and the game
involved when selecting appropriate religions. d20 533C: Religious Events (roll a d20)
Instructions: First, roll a d 10 on Table 533A: Religions to 1 Character is accused of a crime against God. If she is a
select the type of religion encountered. Consider what contempo­ member, she is excommunicated.
rary or game religion best fits the selection. Next, roll a d10 and
match the result against Table 5338: How It Begins to find how it 2-4 Character makes a pilgrimage to an important, but dis­
all begins. Then roll a d3 to select the number of events that occur. tant shrine of the religion.
For each event, roll a d20 and match the result against Table533C: 5-7 In a vision, God asks the character to perform a sacred,
Religious Events. Events occur in no set order. but dangerous mission. GM should create mission.
Roleplay: Tread carefully here, since you are probably 8-12 Character joins the religion. Roll a d10 on the subtable
dealing with contemporary religions. Despite media bias, followers below to determine the strength of the character's devotion.
of religions are not fanatical morons unable to think for themselves;
1-4 Merely an attendee, no serious devotion.
nor are religious clergy all conniving two-faced con men. The 5-7 Devoted follower of the principles of the faith.
supernatural does exist. Forces both good and evil are at work in 8-9 Fervent Belief, seeks to spread the faith.
the world (Ephesians 6:12). Whose side will you be on? 10 All-consuming, fanatical passion. Entire life is focused on
her faith, with a willingness to die for what she believes.

dlO 533A: Religions (roll a dlO) 13 Character makes prophetic statements. Roll a d10. On a
result of 6-10, he becomes unpopular for what he says.
1-2 Mainstream Monotheism. This is one of several global­
wide religions, devoted to a single God and rich in history 14 Character inadvertently desecrates a holy shrine.. Roll a
d4 on the subtable below to find the consequences.

I i-J
and tradition. Depending on the locale, this could include
Roman Catholicism, Protestantism, Judaism, and Islam. Followers actively persecute character.
3-4 Splinter Faith. This religion believes in the same God as Followers shun character and seek reparations.
Religious assassins seek character's death.
prevalent Mainstream Monotheists, but disagrees with the
way that God is worshipped or that Holy Scriptures are 15 The character uncovers the activities of an evil cult. Roll
interpreted. a d4 on the subtable below to find the consequences.
5 Radical Personality Cults. Belief in the deity or special 1 The cult seeks to have the character join them.
calling of a charismatic leader. Cult often ends tragically. 2-3 The local cult organization is destroyed. The character
6 Organized Atheism. A well-organized, often politically becomes a hero, but the cult now wants him dead.
active "religion" devoted to the belief that there is no God 4 Character is shunned, possibly out of fear of the evil cult.
or supernatural.
7 Occultism. Belief in the power of self and that mortals can 16-17 Enemies of the religion persecute the character.
eventually become gods. Often related to Entry #8. 18-19 The character studies for the clergy for 1d4 years. This
8 Evil Worship. Devotion to the enemy of God. Easily improves her Literacy skills by two Ranks and gives the char­
includes "Cthulhoid" mythos deities. acter one skill Rank of religious knowledge for each year.
9 Multi-god Pantheons. Can also include spirit and ances­
tor worship, including modern Paganism. 20 From a dusty book, the character learns more than he
10 Combination of Religions. Reroll twice and creatively ever wished to know about evil. Roll a d100. If the result is 80
combine the results. or higher, the knowledge causes him to develop an exotic pers­
onality trait. Select it on Table 642: Exotic Personality Traits.

11 From Here - Return to the Table that sent you here ...
11
'
 534: Ah Love! 71 534: Ah Love!

534:
A childhood romance lasts 1d10 months. An adolescent ro­
mance lasts 1d4years, but if a 4is rolled, assume thatthe relation­
ship continues into adulthood unless terminated by an event (on
this or other tables). Romances beginning in adulthood are as­
sumed to continue unless ended by an event. Events on this table
that can prematurely end romances are preceded by an [E-#%]
Ah Love! symbol. The# sign indicates the percentage chance thatthis event
will end the romance.
Age, Social Status & Culture: Assume that the Age,
Social Status and Culture of the beloved are roughly the same as
Use only if directed here by another table the character's unless a table entry declares otherwise.
Romance often catches us off guard. While we are making Roleplay: If you have ever been in love, you will have a good
plans for our lives, love has other ideas. idea how love and romance will affect the character's life. If not,
imagine the character being devoted to someone more strongly
Instructions: Roll a d20 twice on Table 534A: The Be­ than he is to his own life. The loss of a beloved (or a love affair that
loved, to select details about the character's loved one. Next, roll ends badly) can create emotional wounds that may take years to
a d3 to get the number of events that occur because of a romance. heal-if they heal at all.
For each event, roll a d20 and match the result against Table534B:
Romantic Events. Follow any directions given and return here until d20 534B: Romantic Events (roll a d20)
all rolls on this table are complete. For each event, you may select 1-4 Character marries the beloved (assumes both character
the age at which it occurs, rather than roll dice to determine the age. and beloved are of legal age).
Events that produce children should not occur prior to age 13. 5-7 The character and the beloved are intense rivals until
they suddenly realize their rivalry springs from their
mutual love.
d20 534A: The Beloved (roll a d20) 8 The families of the character and the beloved disapprove
of their love. Roll a d6 on the subtable below.
1 The character's love is unrequited (beloved does not
return her affections). She can only love from afar. 1 [E-65%] Beloved's family forces beloved into an ar-
2 The beloved is already married to another. ranged marriage with someone else.
3 The beloved has been widowed before. 2 [E-45%] Character's family forbids the romance.
4 Beloved has children. Roll a d4 for the number. 3 [E-45%] Beloved's family forbids the romance.
5 Beloved is an imitation of a living being (a robot, a clone, 4 [E-25%] The beloved's family sends the beloved
an android, simulacrum, etc.). away to live with distant relatives.
6 Beloved's Social Status is different from that of the char­ 5 [E-25%] The character's family sends him or her
acter. Select the Social Status on Table 103: Social away to live with distant relatives.
Status, rerolling results that indicate a similar status. 6 Roll two more times again on this subtable.
7 Beloved's Culture is different from that of the character. 9 [E-75%] Character is unfaithful to the beloved.
Select the it on Table 102: Culture, rerolling any results 10 [E-75%] Beloved is unfaithful to the character.
that indicate a Culture similar to the character's. 11 A tragedy afflicts the beloved. Select the tragic event on
8 Beloved is the sibling of one of the character's friends (or Table 520: Tragedies.
future adventuring companions). 12 [E-50%] Beloved is kidnapped (a lead-in for adventure?).
9 Beloved's age is significantly different from the charac­ 13 When together, the character and his beloved have a
ter's. Roll a d6forHi-Lo. Hi= much olderthan character. psychic power that they do not have when separated.
Lo = much younger than character. Select the power on Table 860: Psychic Powers.
10 The beloved is from a different country. Select it on 14 [E-35%] Beloved is called to overseas military service.
Table 101: Character Origins. 15 The character rescues his beloved from certain doom
11 Beloved is noted for a personality quirk. Select a person­ instigated by a Villain. Create an imaginative near-doom
ality trait on Table 642: Exotic Personality Traits. scenario. Use Table 752: Villains to develop the bad guy.
12 Beloved is noted for a strong personality trait. Use Table 16 The beloved inspires the character to greater accom­
312A: Personality Trait Typesto select the trait. Assume plishments. Improve one skill by one Rank.
that the Trait has a strength of 1d20+80 (see Table 17 The character has 1d4 children by the beloved. Roll for
312C: Optional Rule for details). the occurrence of an unusual birth for each child on Table
13-14 The beloved's appearance is exceptional. Roll a d6 on 106: Unusual Births (do not add in any BiMods).
the subtable below: 18 The beloved becomes the character's Companion. Se­
1-4 Beloved is extremely good-looking lect details on Table 750: Companions.
II 5
6
Beloved is rather unattractive
Beloved is ugly, even repulsive.
19 [E-100%] Character and the beloved end their romance,
but remain good friends. Roll a d10. On a result of 10, the
beloved becomes the character's Companion. Select
15-18 Beloved has an appearance quirk. Select the quirk on
Table 861: Appearances. details on Table 750: Companions.
19 Beloved is involved in a romantic triangle, in which an­ 20 [E-100%] Character and the beloved bitterly end their
other lover pulls at his or her affections. , romance, becoming fierce rivals. Select additional de­
20 Roll twice more on this Table. tails of the rivalry on Table 751: Rivals.

I
11 _ From Here - Return to the Table that sent you here ...
H
535: In the Service of ... 72 535: In the Service ...

535:
535B: Scope of Influence
Instructions: Roll a d10 and match the result against the
table below to select the Patron/Sponsors area of influence. From
Here: Go to Table 535C: Service Events.

In the Service of ... ld10535B: Scope of Influence

1-2 Local. Patron/sponsor has little influence outside im­
Use only if directed here by another table mediate area around residence.
3-6 State/Province/Territory. Though the Patron/Spon­
In the past, many artists, musicians, craftsmen and explor­ sor may be known outside this area, his/its power is not
ers were supported by wealthy patrons, men and women who ex­ effective further than this.
pected service in exchange for their support. In the 20th century, 7-9 National. Patron/Sponsor has influence throughoutthe
direct patronage of one individual by another waned to the point of nation in which it is based.
disappearing. Instead, organizations took over the role. In such a 10 International. This patron is very powerful with ties and
role, they are seen more as "sponsors." When a patron is a single influence that extend beyond national boundaries.
person, he or she is either wealthy or in a high position, someone
who can afford to trade favors for favors, or provide assistance in
exchange for allegiance. Patrons and sponsors are also a wonder­ Table 535C: Service Events.
ful source of employment for adventurers.
Instructions: Roll d3 to select the number of events that
Instructions: To gain a picture of the character's Patron, occur. For each event, roll a d20 and match the total against the
questions must be answered. Who is the Patron? Why does the table below for each event to select what happens during the
character give it or him allegiance? What notable events have oc­ Patronage. Reroll any duplications.
curred during their relationship? Start with Table 535A: Who is the
Patron?and follow directions.
Duration of Service: A character is assumed to remain d20 535C: Service Events (Roll a d20)
allied to his patron unless that allegiance is terminated by an event
on Table 535C: Service Events below. 1-2 Travel widely for patron. Learn the world.
3-6 Patron provides for character's formal education (+1dB
Roleplay: How does the character feel about giving his al­ Education Points-see Table 21O: Education).
legiance to someone? Does the relationship benefit both the char­ 7 Patron dies (organization goes under) while character
acter and the patron? What kind of "favors" might the character is in his/its service. No provision is madefor those under
provide for his patron?What kind of benefits are received in return? his/its patronage. Meanwhile, authorities seek to re­
coup back taxes and debts from the patron's followers.
535A: Who is the Patron? 8 Patron has a rival who has threatened the character's
life. Select rival on Table 751: Rivals .
Instructions: Roll a d20 and match the result against the 9-10 The character leaves the patron's entourage after 1d6
table below to select the character's Sponsor (group) or Patron years. Gains gift/bonus of years x 1,000 dollars.
(individual). An Individual Patron is always 1 d3 levels of Social 11-12 Patron trains character as if she were in the military.
Status higher than the character and always at least Well-to-Do Select "branch of service" on Table 530: Military Duties
(see Table 103: Social Status). From Here: Go to Table 5358: and appropriate skills on Table 531: Military Skills.
Scope of Influence. 13 Patron requires the character to perform criminal acts.
NOTE: if gender of the Patron is not predetermined, then roll Select the crime on Table 862: Crimes.
a d6 for H/-Lo. Hi = male. Lo = female. 14 Patron is outlawed. All those under his/its patronage
are watched closely by secret police.
15 Patron is a radical extremist who will do anything to
ld2.0 535A.� Who'? (Ro\\ a d2.0) advance his/its cause. The character is involved in 1 d3
1 Scientific Society 10 Military Organization. "events" of this type. Select the events on Table 526D:
2 Political Organization 11 Paramilitary organization Political Crime Events.
3 Religious Organization 12 Law Enforcement Agency 16 Patron decides that the character is actually an enemy
4 Criminal Organization 13 Medical Organization of the cause and drives the character from his/its ranks.
5 Social Action Group 14 Environmental Activists The character is now watched by agents of the patron.
6 Arts Group 15 Special Interest Group 17-18 Patron teaches character an occupation to 1d3 Ranks.
7 Large Corporation 16 Hate Organization Select occupation on Table 413: Occupations.
S Violent Political Activists 17 Social/Recreational Club 19 Patron sets character up in business. Patron owns the
9 Trade Organization. Select 18 Pseudo Religious Group business, but the character runs it. Select the business
the type of business 19 An Individual. Select the on Table 413: Occupations.
it promotes on person on Table 743: 20 Patron introduces character to several very influential
' people, the kind of people who often hire mercenaries

n
Table 413: occupations. Others.
20 Government. and adventurers.

From Here - Return to the Table that sent you here . . .

II
536: Exotic Events 73 536: Exotic Events

536:
Exotic Events
Use only if directed here by another table

Beyond the merely unusual, these events are the strang­

est of the strange things that can happen to a character, almost
guaranteed to be life-changing events.
Instructions: Roll a d20 to select the unusual event.
Record the event on the character's worksheet.
Roleplay: These events may cause a character to question
the nature of the universe, asking things like, "Why do strange
things like these happen? How can I correct the problem?," and
'"Will my friends ever believe that this happened?" These events
can easily be cause to seek adventure, if only to explain why they
happened or to change their outcome.

d20 536: Exotic Events (roll a d20) (continued ... )

1 The character is the first to contact an alien race. This 3 A large meteorite impacts near where the character lives.
encounter greatly affects all future relations with the beings. While everyone stands in awe of the glowing, smoking crater, the
Select the type of alien on Table 747: Aliens. Then roll a d6 and character notices something that may have been thrown clear of
match the result on the subtable below to discover the outcome the blast. It is an animal, or at least an animal-like thing. It appears
of the meeting. dead, but moments later, the creature's eyes open and it begins
1 Character was kidnapped. His people are suspicious. to calmly and casually clean and preen itself. The character has
2 Character kills an alien. The aliens are furious. Roll a d6. acquired an unusual pet. Select it on Table 749: Unusual Pets.
If the result is 1-4, the aliens demand that the character 4 After finding an odd little talisman in a curio shoppe, the
be punished. If the result is 5 or 6, the aliens are overtly character wakes up the next morning feeling different. To find out
hostile and a war ensues. just how different, roll a d1O on the subtable below.
3 The aliens kill one of the character's companions. His The character gains an ability from Table 858: Exotic
1
people respond with a punitive strike. Roll a d6. If the Features.
result is 1-4, the aliens respond in kind. If it is 5 or 6, the 2 The character's gender changes male to female and
aliens now are overtly hostile and a war ensues. vice versa.
4 The race was befriended due to the character's actions
3 A glowing mark appears on the character. Select the
and have become staunch allies. shape on Table 856: Birthmarks, color on Table 855:
s The alien was the lone survivor of his race and passed on Colors and location on Table: 857: Body Locations.
a gift to the character. Roll a d6. If the result is 1-3, select 4 Character gains an ability from Table 860: Psychic
the gift on Table 853: Gifts & Legacies. If it is 4-6, select Powers.
it on Table 858: Exotic Features. 5 The character appearance changes. Select the
6 The aliens found the dying character amidst the ruins of changes on Table 861: Appearances.
a vehicle and "repaired" him. He now has 1 d6 bionic parts 6 The character has become someone else entirely.
that function as normal limbs or organs, and have no Though he or she remembers a different past, every­
standard earthly equivalent. The aliens used themselves one else sees the character as this different person.
as an anatomical guide. 7 Roll twice more on this subtable.
2 Character is plagued with incredibly detailed dreams - 8-10 Roll a d4 on the subtable below to determine further
so much so that the character is learning skills from the people in details about the change.
her dreams, either by interaction or by observation. Character 1 Character's mind is transferred into a new body.
learns 1d4+1 skills, to Rank 1d3, with the skills being those 2 Genetic surgery accomplishes the change.
available in your game world. The skills are FREE- no money 3 An ancient artifact causes the change.
to pay, no teacher to find, no points to sacrifice. The character is 4 Character only imagines that a change was made.
beginning to suspect, however that the dreams are REAL, and
that her two worlds will one day collide. 5 A freak accident grants the character a psychic power at
a Rank 3 skill ability. Select the power on Table 860: Psychic
Po�ers. Unfortunately, each use of this power
ages the character by one full year. Continued ... �

H Table 536 continues on the next page ...

11
536: Exotic Events 74 536: Exotic Events

d20 536: Exotic Events (continued ... ) d20 536: Exotic Events (continued ... )
6 An inter-dimensional rift opens and the character is 12 While out one day, the character encounters a ring of
abducted by beings from another dimension. Moments later, the mushrooms about 15' in diameter. Intrigued, the character steps
character reappears, but he has physically aged 1d10+1o years, into the ring. Everything begins to waver, and she hears far away
has no memories of that lost time, and has not mentally aged voices, singing softly. Roll a d4 on the table below to find out what
even a minute. happens next:
7 The character awakens one morning with three men, all 1 Character panics and stars to stomp on mushrooms. Just
dressed in black, standing over him. He's then knocked out, and as the ring is broken, the character's ''world" collapses.
finds out later that his house and all his belongings are gone - When she awakes, her head swims with horrors -both
the result of a terrible explosion and a report that he had died in real and imagined. Give her a roll on Table 642: Exotic
it. His family, if any, survived and consider him dead. This agency Personality Traits, and age her 2d20+10 relative years.
has decided that the character is who they need for their covert, 2 Somewhat unnerved, the character steps out of the
justice oriented operations. The character has a new name, circle. He no longer hears singing, but something is
altered features, and new So/Mods-"Comfortable"to how other definitely different outside-1d12 months have passed,
people see him, and "Extremely Wealthy," without the TiMod, to and the character may be ill-prepared for the change in
the primary agency (which has access to unlimited government climate or season. The ring disappears.
funds) and possibly a few related departments. The character is 3 The enchanting music keeps the character's attention,
always on call, but is used only two or three times a year. but nothing else seems to be happening. After several
Continue rolling up the character, using the new "Comfortable" minutes, the character decides that this is nice, but no big
So/Mod. Also, make a roll on Table413A: Occupations with a +5 deal. When she leaves, she looks back, and just before
and follow the results there. The occupation is more of a token the ring fades away, it seems to glow. The character has
cover than anything else since the agency supports him, but it's the ability to "see" things magical (only she would have
what the character likes to do with his time. seen the glow) and the ability to contact the faeries again
should she need to. Unfortunately, 1d100 years have
8 The followers of an unheard-of-religion claim that the passed. Drop the character's social status to Destitute­
character is the "Chosen One, He-who-has-been-fore-ordained" a result of being declared "dead." All possessions have
to lead their cult onto glory. He initially disagrees and at this time, been sold (or given to heirs).
the cultists are still pleading with and harassing him. 4 The beauty of the music caught the character, and he
9 While poking around in some abandoned, ruined place sang along. Space folded around him, and he thought he
that other people avoid, the character comes across a hidden saw faeries and elves and many things mythical. When
treasure. Unfortunately, the character is not able to do anything the character "awakens," one of the items he had seen
with the treasure. To the best of his knowledge, it remains lies at his feet. Select the object on Table 853: Gifts and
untouched. Roll a d4 on the subtable below to determine the Legacies. Assume it has magical powers or will be very
exact type of treasure. important to him in the future.
1 Gold and silver artifacts worth 1d6 X 10,000 dollars. 13 Through a complicated chain of events, the character
2 1d3 devices from Table 8548: Wondrous Devices. has been marooned, left for dead on a remote, hostile island. Yet
3 1d6 objects from Table 853: Gifts & Legacies. he survives and returns to civilization. As a result of the encoun­
4 A lode of valuable mineral resources. ter, the character's Wilderness Survival skill jumps 1d4 ranks.
10 The character befriends an Extremely Wealthy person. Select the person or persons responsible for the abandonment
Roll Hi/Lo to select the being's sex. A Hi result is a male. A Lo by rolling a d8 on the subtable below. The character has a burning
result is female. Then roll a d4 to determine the person's age. desire to "pay back" those who abandoned him.
1 Much, much older than the character.
1 A rival. If no rival, create one on Table 751: Rivals.
2 About the same age as the character. 2 A relative. Select on Table 104D: Other Relations.
3 Much younger than the character (maybe a child) 3 Pirates!
4-5 Other Person. Select type on Table 743: Others.
4 The wealthy being is an monster. Reroll age and select
6 Renegades, rebels against the government.
the creature on Table 748: Horrors.
7 Government forces, soldiers of the ruling power.
11 The character's world is unavoidably doomed to destruc­ 8 Enemy forces, soldiers of an enemy power.
tion. Those in the know keep their knowledge secret, but prepare
for their own escapes. The character participates in a secret 14 Quiet sobbing from a dark corner of the cemetery catches
project to both stop the rulers and let some or all of the world's the ?haracter's attention. When she goes to offer sympathies,
people escape the destruction. The character and his friends she 1s taken aback by what she finds-a monster bemoaning its
succeed in at least saving themselves. Roll a d6 on the subtable lonely life. She befriends the creature andtheydiscover that they
below to determine additional outcomes. enjoy each other's company. Roll the creature on Table 748:
Horrors, re-rolling any result that doesn't make sense. Assume
1 The evil leaders are foiled and die in the destruction. that the creature is an outcast of his race, probably for not being
2 Half the world's population is saved. violent enough. The horror is intelligent, and desires only some­
3 All are saved. one to talk to. Although the monster will not let anyone else see
4 The planet is only ravaged, not utterly destroyed. hifV, he chooses to '1ravel" with the character,
5 Only the character escapes. always there, and always out of sight.
6 The catastrophe is averted by what can only be called a
Heavenly miracle. Continued ... �

II Table 536 continues on the next page . . .

s 536: Exotic Events
I
•
d20536: Exotic Events (continued ... )
15 An event reveals that the character is
different, a RARE offshoot (average one every
10 years) of humanity - a separate species
known to exist in myth and legend, but not in
the 20th century. Roll a d4 on the table below
to choose this strange race. Then reroll the
event on Table 536: Exotic Events.
1 Immortal - cannot die, except
(usually) by one specific method. The
character can "hurt," but heals with impos­
sible speed. The healing is not necessar­
ily perfect, and on a d4 result of 4, the
character has 1d4 impressive scars. Use
Table 857: Body Locations. Select the
event on Table 538: Death Situations.
Assume that the character is the "Victim,"
and does not die.
2 Magi - a physical predisposition
towards magic. All magic-related skills
can be learned at half the cost or half the
time, if the character chooses to develop
her ability. Even if she chooses not to, the
character will still be able to sense and
interact with things magical like no one
else is able to (except a Keeper). Select
the event on Table 537: Magical Events.
3 Superior-a mutation -could be
the next evolutionary step, if the character
survives. Add +1 to all the character's
attributes, and an additional +1 to two of
the attributes.
4 Keeper - not a magic user, but
privy to things fantastic, in order to sustain
and protect the things not understo6d until
the time comes when the world is again
ready for them. They live lives measured
in centuries, hold MUCH knowledge, and d.20 536: Exotic Events (continued ... )
often protect the world from things magi­ 18 The lamp wasn't supposed to be inhabited, and the genie should have been
cal, natural, unnatural, and supernatural. nicer. The character gets a disgruntledgenie who grants him one, not three, wishes,
They often deal with magic, but not IN and warns him not to tell anyone or she won't even get one wish. At this point, the
magic. Select the event on Table 537: character has yet to make that wish.
Magical Events. (Read the fantasy series
"The Dark is Rising" by Susan Cooper to 19 There is a terrible accident and the character is killed! Medical science re­
get an idea of a Keeper and its mission) . turns the character's body to life. Roll a d6 on the subtable below to select what has
happened as a result of the accident:
16 The character is present during an
experiment which unleashes a terrible curse 1 The character was actually dead for 1d100 years.
into the universe in the form of (roll a d4 to 2 The character's mind awakens in a different body. Roll Hi/Lo for gender. Hi
select the thing): = male. Lo = female.
3 The character's brain has been cyborged. He is now a living mind in an
1 A deadly, incurable plague. android or robot body.
2 A sentient energy force.
3 A being from another dimension.
4 The death experience is also a religious experience. The character joins a
popular religion. Select details on Table 533: Religion.
4 An ancient being, trapped since pre- 5 The origioal character actually DID die. The being now occupying his body
history. is someone else altogether. Select the new personality's original form or
17 A strange woman gives the character previous life on Table 743: Others.
an ornate box sealed with wax and hoarsely 6 Reroll. The character is obsessed with avoiding death.
whispers "It's up to you now, keep it safe, keep 20 An unfortunate accident leaves the character in a coma for 1d20 years. Sur­
it from ... them." It's not until she drops dead at prisingly, when th� character finally awakes, she seems to have not missed
the character's feet that the bullet hole in her anything that happ�ned in the intervening years. Unknown to any but herself, she
back becomes obvious. GM Only: refer to discovered that she can project herself astrally-i.e., leave her body and take her
entry #536 on Table 965: GM's Specials. conscious mind elsewhere.

11 From Here - Return to the Table that sent you here ... II
537: Magical Events 76 537: Magical Events

537:
children's books and old wives' tales, this would be a good time to
change her mind.
Instructions: Roll a d20 and match the number against the
table below. Some events are personal, and some are on a larger
scale-reroll any events that are situationally inappropriate.

Magical Events Roleplay: In the 20th century, magic is what stage magi­
cians practice. Rarely does a character encounter true magic and
even more rarely will the character realize it. The strange event
may prompt the character to understand these forces, or it may so
Use only if directed here by another table unsettle him that even the mention of a fortune teller causes dis­
comfort. If many such events follow the character, he may decide
If your character thought magic in the 20th century was for that he is naturally inclined to the strange rituals of magic.

ld20537: Magical Events (roll a d20) ld20537: Magical Events (continued ... )
1 Event appears magical to the character, but is really a 12 The character discovers a cache of aging black and white
event from a technologically-advanced culture. Roll again on this photos of great aunts and uncles, taken when they were children.
table for the actual event, and then give it a technical source They would hardly be worth noting, save for the small animated,
unknown to the character. butterfly-winged, fairy-like figures with whom they are posing.
2 Character decides to have his fortune told. The teller holds 13 The character's favorite librarian has an accident and is
his hand a long while, then slowly gives the fortune. Roll three pinned under a fallen bookshelf. The character happened upon
times on Table 211: Significant Events of Adulthood. The first two her, and while helping her, noticed thatthe flooring under the shelf
events have already occurred, but the third event has yetto occur. had lifted when the shelf fell over-revealing a hidden book. After
helping her to the hospital, the character returns for the book­
3 While borrowing some sugar from a new neighbor, the a tome of magic. The character must spend at least 1d4 years
character thinks he sees a broom sweeping the floor-no human from his age at this event to figure it out.
attached. Upon a second look, the broom is propped in the
corner, and the neighbor is suggesting that the character get 14 Poltergeist activity terrorizes a shopping area that has
some sleep. never had any reports of this kind before. Obviously someone
summoned them.
4 Incredible sightings of mythological creatures occur. 2d100
people report seeing a large dragon-like creature in the bay. 15 Roll 1d3 times on this table. These events are related and
Others claim to have been rescued by a unicorn or to have seem to suggest a cataclysmical encounter is developing be­
watched their pet turned to stone by a basilisk. tween the supernatural forces of Good and the forces of Evil. The
character is somehow pivotal in this encounter (though he or she
5 An item with historical value and rumored mystical powers may not actually take part in the conflict).
has been lost for 1Od100 + 50 years. Recently found by a friend,
he entrusts it to the character for safe-keeping-but warns: never 16 Something rips a hole in the side of the headquarters of the
directly touch it with bare hands. national military agency, and a note threatening worse is received
the same day. Scientists can't find any explanation.
6 The character witnesses a woman accidentally walk into a
"turf war" (gangs, mob, etc.) and emerge unscathed. Bullets 17 A bizarre rift in the continuum allows the character to en­
never touch her, people seemed to freeze near her, and after she counter people from the past, and even people he thought were
passed through, she literally disappeared around the corner. purely fictional. Use Table 743: Others to select 1d4 persons
encountered. Roll a d4. On a result of 4, the person is or was quite
7 In the middle of a large metropolitan city, in the middle of the famous in his or her time.
day, a huge hand came out of the clouds and scooped up 2d6
people. One of them was a friend of the character. 18 One of the character's favorite items suddenly acquires an
intelligence of its own. Roll a d4. On result of 4, the item is quite
8 An old man comes up to the character and slaps her on the a bit smarter than the character. Otherwise, it's about the same.
forehead. He's gone before the character can react. She has just Make four rolls on Table312A:PersonalityTraitTypesandselect
received the old man's life work, a very complex and powerful appropriate traits as indicated. If "no traits" are rolled all four
spell. As soon as she figures out all those symbols floating around times, the object is considerably dumber than the character and
in her head, she'll be able to use it-it will take about 3d4 years. will serve as a loyal "yes man."
9 A glowing pentacle is discovered on the back door of the 19 An acknowledged master (in the right circles) of the mys­
home of a respected, prominent citizen in the community. tical arts (Rank 10-on his way to 11) makes his once-in-a­
10 "It's the curse, the curse!"Crops are drying up, animals are lifetime appearance (about once every 150 years) to scout for
dying, and local businesses are going bankrupt. The people say potential students. Roll a d100, and on a result of "100," he
it's because of a curse, incurred when the town's forefathers built chooses the character for intense magical training. Ttie charac­
on the holy ground of the natives. They may be right. ter is kept for 15 years, and when he returns, he has learned
magical skills to Rank 7.
11 Character buys a rock crystal for a living room display, but
feels much better while holding it. It's a healing crystal that really 20\ Roll twice more on this table and combine the events.
works. GM Only: see entry #537 on Table 965: GM's Specials.

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H
538: Death Situations 77 538: Death Situations

538:
Death Situations
Use only if directed here by another table

Occasionally a character or an important person in the The use of the term, "Someone" in the descriptions refers to the
character's life will cause the death of another person, or a person causer of the death, whether it is the character or some other
important tothe character will die an untimely death. However, this person.
does not necessarily mean that the victim was murdered. Roleplay: Responsibility for a death and the guilt associat­
Instructions: When this table is called for, roll a d20 and ed with it can haunt a character forever, changing attitudes about
match the result against this table to determine Cause of Death. death and relationships. Even if wrongly accused of causing a
Then roll a d1Oto determine responsibility. On a d10 result of 10, death, the character can spend the rest of his life proving it other­
the character is linked with the death in some unfavorable manner. wise-and still not succeed.

d20 538: Cause of Death (roll a d20) d20 538: Cause of Death (continued ... }
1 Victim died accidentally (falling from a ladder, run over by 12 The deceased sacrificed his or her life. Roll a d6 on the
a vehicle, touching a live wire, etc.). No one is really to blame subtable below to determine the reason:
(unless someone has Causeclthe death to occur, in which case 1-3 To save the character from death.
it is an arranged accident). However, it is possible that people 4-5 To save a relative who was endangered by someone.
think the character is responsible. Roll a d20 and a d12 together. 6 To save some other person(s) whose life was endan­
If the d12 roll is equal to or higher than the d20 roll, all who know gered by someone's actions. Go to Table 743: Others,
the victim blame the character for the death. to determine just who was saved.
2 Premeditated, violent murder. Someone wanted the victim 13 Victim is thrown into prison because of someone's actions
dead and took personal, violent action to ensure that death and later dies there. Roll a d6. On a result of 3 or less, the victim
occurred. You or the GM will need to create the situation sur­ committed a crime and was justly imprisoned. On a roll of 4-5, the
rounding the death, including method and motive. victim was unjustly imprisoned. If the result is a 6, the victim was
imprisoned in someone else's place.
3 Victim was killed in a fit of blind passion. It's still murder, but
the killing may be defensible. 14 Victim was tortured to death by someone.
4 Assassination. Professionals were hired to perform the 15 Victim is one of many who die as the result of a catastro-
act. A motive will be necessary. phe, such as a natural disaster, explosion, plane crash, ship
wreck and so on. Use Table 5208: Tragic Causes as a source of
5 Victim died in a fight. A cause for the fight needs to be ideas. In the event of a natural disaster, someone could have
constructed (be creative!). saved the victim's life had he or she tried.
6 Victim was poisoned. This is not necessarily murder. Roll 16 Victim dies of a disease caught from someone. Roll a d6.
a d10. On a result of 5 or more, it occurred accidentally (see entry On a result of 6, the person is stigmatized as a plague bearer.
#1 above for accident details).
FO R THEFOLLOWING TABLEENT RIES, ROLL AGAI N
7 Victim was killed during the commission of a crime. Roll a TODETERMINE THEAC TUAL CAU SEOF
d1 0. If the roll is less than 5, the victim was committing a crime DEATH- REROLLING ONLY DUPLICATE RESULTS
when killed. If 5 or greater, someone killed the victim while
committing a crime. Go to Table 862: Crimes to determine the 17 Several friends of the victim actively seek the death of the
nature of the crime committed. killer. Treatthem as 1d4+1 Deadly or even Obsessive Rivals (see
subtable 751C on Table 751: Rivals ).
8 Victim was killed in self-defense.
18 The victim's spirit cannot rest and haunts the person
9 Victim was driven to suicide by someone's actions. responsible for the death. Some form of atonement may remove
10 Victim was killed by an equipment malfunction. Something the ghost (at the GM's discretion).
that should have worked, failed instead. 19 The person allegedly responsible for the death is hated
11 Victim died of starvation. Roll a d6. On a result of 1-4, the and reviled by all who hear of it.
victim dies due to circumstances initiated by a catastrophe. Use 20 Law enforcement officials actively seek to capture the
Table 5208: Tragic Causes as a source of ideas. In the event of killer. One officer has made this case an obsession. Treat him as
a natural disaster, someone could have saved the victim's life an Obselssive Rival (see subtable 751C on Table 751: Rivals)
had he or she tried. On a result of 5-6, someone deliberately with­ whose goal is to bring the character to justice.
held food.

11 From Here - Return to the Table that sent you here ...
539: Death of a Loved One 78 539: Death of a Loved One

539: d.20 539B: Other Events (roll a d.20)

1
2
Nothing unusual occurred.
Character is stricken with grief. He becomes obsessive
about preserving the memory of the deceased. Unless

Death of a
the character can come to terms with this obsession, he
is unable to form meaningful relationships. The GM may
wish to create an adventure through which the character

Loved One
finally works out his grief and lets the dead rest.
3-4 Roll twice more on this table.
5 Papers found in the deceased's home reveal a secret.
Roll a d4 on the subtable below to learn the secret.
Use only if directed here by another table 1 Deceased was once a Noble, living in exile. Select
the Noble title on Table 746: Nobles.
A Loved One is anyone whom the character cares for, a 2 Deceased was an important research scientist.
mother, father, guardian, brother, sister, mentor, good friend, or 3 Deceased is secretly the child of a powerful leader.
romantic lover. A Love One's death can have a drastic effect on a 4 Deceased was not a human being, but a cleverly
character's life. There is the grief of loss, the possibility of receiving made, self aware android. The deceased is not truly
an inheritance or being saddled with financial burden, the chance dead, since machines do not die (as we know it).
that a surviving parent may remarry ... and still stranger things. 6 When the character visits the deceased's grave, the
Instructions: Tables which send the character here should grave has been opened and the tomb is empty. Roll a d6.
already have stated who has died (or instructed you to select the On a result of 5-6, weird events from Table 523: Horror
deceased). If the deceased was an adult, roll a dB on Table 539A: Events start taking place.
Inheritance to determine the character's inheritance, if any. Then 7 Deceased's spouse (if any) remarries within 1d4 years.
roll a d20 on subtable 5398: Other Events to select a significant 8 Deceased's spouse (if any) remarries immediately.
event surrounding the death of the Loved One. Follow directions 9 A close friend of the deceased confides in the character
given with the selected table entries, returning there until all rolls that he or she believes the deceased was murdered.
on that table are complete. 10 Thedeceased's spouse (or a close relative if no surviving
Note: If a spouse of a parent or guardian survives the de­ spouse) blames the character for the deceased's death.
ceased, roll a d100. On a result of 75 or less assume that the Selectthe cause of death on Table 538: Death Situations.
spouse remains in possession of any property and most money. 11 When character tries to collect his inheritance, it has
already been claimed by another relative (selected on
Roleplay: How does the character feel about losing a par­ Table 1040: Other Relations).
ent? How would you feel if (or when) it happened to you? Would 12 The deceased's spirit appears to the character and
the value of an inheritance in any way compensate for the loss? demands that an injustice be righted.
13 A journal found in the deceased's effects hints at the
location of a lost treasure.
d8 539A: Inheritance (Roll a d8) 14 A mysterious stranger offers to buy any items inherited
from the deceased for much more than they could possi­
1- 3 The character receives 1d1O times his base starting bly be worth (1d100 x $1,000).
money in cash. 15 A book found in the attic turns out to be plans for a
4 The estate is liquidated to pay off debts. Roll a d6. If the fantastic (but experimental) device.
result is 6, the debts remain unpaid and the character is 16 A charismatic, but mysterious (�nd obviously evil) stranger
liable for 1d100 times her base starting money. claims the deceased's estate for him/herself. Everything
5 The character receives nothing. The Loved One's last will looks legal, but something smells fishy about it.
and testament condemns the character's lifestyle. 17 If the character has living siblings, they fight over the
6 The character receives a map, a key and a strange gift. deceased's personal belongings.
The three are somehow related (GM's discretion as to 18 The deceased was declared legally dead after having
how they are related). Determine the gift on Table 853: disappeared years ago, but may actually be alive.
Gifts & Legacies. 19 Upon dying, a small serial number is revealed on the
7 The character becomes heir to the Loved One's estate body. Apparently, a clone was substituted for the de­
and may assume control of any lands, monies, proper­ ceased some time in the past. Does he or she still live?
ties, and possessions. 20 The deceased is apparently not dead! He or she appears
8 As described for #7 above, but with a condition selected at the reading of the will! Something seems not quite right
by rolling a d4 on the subtable below. though. Roll a d4 on the subtable below
1 Character must first marry and produce an heir. 1 The person who died was not who he or she ap­
2 Character must change lifestyle (forego adventuring peared to be.
career, become a priest, etc.) 2 The person who returns is an imposter.
3 Character must perform a task, mission, or quest 3 The deceased has returned, but is not truly alive
described in the will (GM's discretion). (undead or reanimated).
4 Character must devote life to championing the poor, 4 The deceased's brain has been transferred into a
the weak, and the downtrodden. look-alike constructed body.

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11
540: Secret Origins 79 540: Secret Origins

540: d20 540B: Incidents (roll a d20)

1-3
4
Born that way. Use Table 540E: Super Birth Events.
Finds a device. from Table 8548: Wondrous Devices.

Secret Origins
5 A natural disaster. Select it on Table 5208: Tragic Causes.
6 Radiation. Character is bathed in some type of radiation.
7 Animal/Insect bite. Either roll on Table 749: Unusual Pets
or select something from the game world.
Use only if directed here by another table 8 Given. By some means, she is simply given powers.
9 Experiment. Character is the successful test subject.
10 Botched experiment - Character is the result.
This table assumes that a character has super abilites and 11 Wreck. Use Table 864: Vehicles to find what the charac­
tells us how he or she came by thm. Some characters are stranger ter crashed.
than others and have obtained abilities above and beyond those 12 Accident. Roll a d6 to select type on the subtable below:
of everyday citizens. This is particularly true for Superhero and 1 Scientific experiment
Science Fiction Now genre games, but may not be appropriate for 2 Stupid (dropping a hair dryer dropping into a tub)
spy, horror, pulp or military genre games. Use your best judgement 3 Industrial (like falling in a vat of chemicals)
here. If you want to play the spy from Alpha Centauri, then go 4 Recreational (like a parachute failing)
ahead, just clear it with your GM first. 5 Occupational, related to the character's job.
Instructions: Make one roll on each of tables A-0, record­ 6 Catastrophic, something that affects many people.
ing the information on the appropriate lines of the character 13 Disease. Contracting a disease triggers changes.
worksheet. These tables suggest how the character received his 14 Combat. Brings out an unknown aspect of the character.
super powers, and could be stated: "As a result of '5408', which Roll for Hi/Lo.
was apparently caused by '540C' at '5400', the character gains Hi= Military combat - the character was or is in the
super abilities." armed services. Go to Table 527: Military Experience
540A: Secret(?) Origins. Was the character really born on to find out the basic details, and then to Table 528:
this planet, in this time and reality? Combat!forthe main event (Table 527may send the
540B: Incidents. What caused the character to gain super­ character to Table 528- if not, go there anyway.)
human abilities? Lo= Personal fight - perhaps in a schoolyard or bar.
540C: Who or What is Responsible? Who caused the 15 Find an Item. Choose it on Table 853: Gifts and Legacies.
character to gain super human abilities? 16 Find a Legendary Teacher.
540D: Where? Where did this origin situation occur? 17 High-risk situation. This was a venture most thought was
540E: Super Birth Events. These are extra-special events doomed from the start. Many, including the character
surround the birth of a super hero to be. himself, doubted his safe return.
18 Character dies, and is returned to life later.
19 More than one incident. Roll twice more on this table.
d100540A: Secret (?) Origins (roll a dlOO) 20 GM Only: Select Incident and subsequent details. Keep
1-95 It's no secret, the character is a resident of this world an them a secret from the player and character.
time. If a country of origin has not been selected yet, us
Table 101: Character Origins to do so.
96-97 Character was born on another planet, a native of its 3d20540C: Responsible Party (roll 3d20)
environment. Roll a d100. If the result is greater than
10, then it's a secret, otherwise, it's common knowl­ 3-10 Nothing is responsible - it just happened.
edge. Select the planet type on Table 105C: World 11-13 Parents or guardian - re-roll if none.
Types. The character has skills and abilities suited to 14-20 An event - select the event on one of the following
his home world which may benefit him with "super" tables by rolling a d20. The actual event does not
abilities on Earth, due to planetary differences. Now roll affect the character directly.
a d20 on the subtable below: 1 208: Sig. Events of Youth 10 526C: Crime Events
1-15 Character is human. 2 209: Special Events 11 526D: Political
16-18 Character is near human (or mostly human). of Youth Crime Events
19 Character is an alien disguised to appear human. 3 211: Sig. Events of Adulthd. 12 527: Military Events
Select alien on Table 747: Aliens. 4 520: Tragedies 13 532: Imprisoned!
20 Character is an alien (undisguised). Select alien 5 521:Something Wonderful 14 533C:Religious
on Table 747: Aliens. 6 522:Superhero Events 15 5348: Romantic
7 523: Horror Events 16 535C:Service Events
98 Character was born in another time. Roll Hi/Lo. Hi= 8 524: Espionage Events 17 536: Exotic Events
Future. Lo= Past. For futures, see also Table 540E: 9 525: Pulp Hero Events 18 537: Magical Events
Super Birth Events, entry #13. 10-11 Roll twice more on this subtable. Combine the
99
100
Character was born in a parallel dimension.
Roll twice more on this table, combining results. ' Events

Continued ... �

11 Table 540 continues on the next page ...

11
540: Secret Origins 80 540: Secret Origins

3d20540C: Responsible Party (continued)

21 A foreign government agency-choose the country on
Table 101: Character Origins.
22 One of the character's teachers or former teachers.
23-24 Supernatural being. A spirit, ghost, angel, demon, etc.
25-26 Some occupational guild (could be a secret one)-Use
Table 413: Occupations.
27 A religious group-find type on Table533A: Religions.
28-30 Character is - she volunteered.
31-33 Character is - he made a mistake.
34-36 Character is - she attempted a heroic action.
37 The character's beloved. ld12540D: Where? (roll a d12)
38-45 Someone -find out who on Table 743: Others.
46-50 An organization - select on Table 535A: Who? 1 Hobby convention 7 Use Table 105A: Place of Birth
51-52 A group- choose on Table 744: Other Groups. 2 Laboratory 8 Outer space
53-55 An item-some object has set these events in motion. 3 The wild outdoors 9 Field experiment
56 A powerful being - a minor deity to many people. 4 Character's home 10 Streets
57-60 Roll twice more on this table -two parties share the 5 Office building 11 School
responsibility. 6 Caverns 12 Battlefield

Use only if directed here by another table

d20 540E: Super Birth Events (roll a d20) d20 540E: Super Birth Events (continued)
1-3 A genetic ''throw-back," the character is born with an 12-15 Character is a definite true genetic mutation. Roll a d4,
obvious resemblance to an animal. Select the animal on Table on this subtable and go where it sends you.
749A: Unusual Pets. To find the degree of resemblance, roll a d6: 1 1 d3 rolls on Table 858: Exotic Features.
1-3 The character has only a minor animal cast. 2 1 d3 rolls on Table 860: Psychic Powers.
4-5 The look is more pronounced. 4 Two rolls, one on each Table (858 & 860)
6 The character would be hard pressed to pass for 5 One roll on each Table (858 & 860), plus one roll of choice
normal. GM decides any animal-like abilities. on either table.
4 Upon delivery, the glowing character lit up the room. 16 The culture and technology that the character grew up with
Choose a color on Table855:Colors. Roll a d10, and if the result are not the same as the ones she was born into. She has a
is a "1 O," the light was seen outside the building as well. It lasted TekMod that is plus 1d3 higher than normal because she was
only seconds. born in the future, and wound up in the present by unknown
5 The character develops or is born near the area of effect of means. Her friends are amazed at her ability to grasp cutting
some strange item, and begins to exhibit properties of that item. edge technology and foreign scientific concepts.
Select the item on Table 8548: Wondrous Devices, and apply 17-18 The character's parents are not her true parents. She
any powers that are appropriate to the game system. The was an equation given life due to a bizarre accident. Select the
character has an affinity for similar devices and if he chooses, accident's cause on Table5208: Tragic Causes. Assume that it
may develop skill with them easily. affected the laboratory where the research was being done. The
6 Unknown to the character, he is the offspring of a major character's current form is, or can be, humanoid. Select the
villain. Select this bad person on Table 752: Villains. character's "biosystem" on the subtable below by rolling a d12.
Unless consciously kept in line, the character's biosystem tends
7 A friend of the family is a brilliant scientist, but a bit mad. As to give off telltale hints.
he delivered the character, he injected her with an experimental 1 Electromagnetic 6 Chronological (time)
drug. It apparently did nothing. As the character develops, 2 Electrical 7 Sonic (sound energy)
however, she realizes that she is using much more of her brain's 3 Botanical 8 Chemical
potential than other people -up to 90% of her potential, com­ 4 Acidic 9 Nuclear
pared to the 10% of normal people. Add 6 bonus points to the
characters main mental attribute(s). Oh by the way, the charac­ 5 Elemental. Roll a d4. 10 Inorganic (silicon base, etc.)
ter REMEMBERS the scientist and the incident.
8-9 Not many people noticed the character's birth, as it
II 1 Fire
2 Earth
3 Air
4 Water
occurred during an unprecedented display of supernatural pow­ 11 Dream/myth (character exists as long as people believe
ers. Select the occurrence on Table 537: Magical Events, and in her, and her power tends to flux in proportion to them.)
assume that the event distracted the people nearest the charac­ 12 Some unknown power source has transformed the
ter. The character is bathed in the glow of mystical power upon character's body into a core of limitless energy, but he
delivery, and the surge affects the character-GM decides how. has no idea what it does.
10-11 Character is the offspring of 1 d2 super-powered par­ 2@ Roll twice more on this table, combining results.
ents. There is a 50%chance that powers match those of parents.

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11
 641: Personality Traits 81

641:
PersonalityTraits
Use only if directed here by another table

Use this table when the character has assumed a Lightside,

Darkside or Neutral personality trait.
Central Casting begins with the assumption that it is possible
to classify a character's behavior in terms of right, or "good"
behavior and wrong, sinful or "bad" behavior. Lightsidetraits are so
called because they represent the "lighter" or better aspects of a
person's character. Folks who exhibit these traits are often con­
sidered "nice" people, though that may not be the truth. Even
characters who are mostly bad will have their good points.
The Neutral traits found in Table641Barethosethattendtobe d4/dl0 641A: Lightside Traits (roll d4 & dlO)
moslyfree from association with the concepts of right and wrong
(though this is also often a matter of opinion). They are easily found 10 Optimist: always see the good side of things.
in characters who tend toward either or neither extreme of right or 11 Altruist(*): selfless concern for others' welfare.
wrong. 12 Helpful: helps others in need.
Finally, there are traits that represent the darker, unpleasant 13 Kindly(*): warmhearted and friendly.
and wrongful forms of human behavior. These traits, found on 14 Careful: cautious in thought and deed.
Table 641 C, are flaws in makeup of a character's personality and 15 Considerate: thinks of others' feelings.
are harmful to oneself and others. They are called Darkside, and 16 Sober: serious, plain-thinking, straightforward.
more often than not, characters who exhibit several of these traits 17 Teetotaler: abstains from drinking alcohol.
are either knowingly evil or have become trapped in a lifestyle of 18 Trusting(*): trusts others to behave correctly.
wrong behavior. Nevertheless, these traits can also be found in 19 Peaceful: serene of spirit.
characters who are otherwise good. 20 Peacemaker: attempts to calm others.
21 Pious: reverently devoted to worship of God.
Instructions: For each trait to be selected, roll a d4 and a 22 Honest(*): always gives what is due.
d10 at the same time. The results are not added, but are read like 23 Loving: affectionately concerned for others.
a two-digit number. The d4 result is always the first or "1 O's" digit. 24 Giving: gives of self and possessions.
Example: A d4 result of 3 and a d1 o result of O are read as a 30. 25 Organized: everything has a place.
Match the total against the appropriate table to determine the trait. 26 Clean: practices good hygiene.
Note that each Lightside trait in Table 641A: Ughtside Traits 27 Punctual: always on time.
has an opposite trait to be found in the same numerical position in 28 Self-confident: sure of self and abilities.
Table 641 C: Darkside Traits. 29 Courageous: brave in the face of adversity.
Roleplay: The presence of a Lightside or Darkside trait in a 30 Respectful: shows respect for others.
character's personality does not mean that a character is either 31 Calm: difficult to anger, a peaceful spirit.
good or evil, It is only when the traits of one side or the other 32 Patient: able to wait with calmness.
dominate a character's personality that the character can be said 33 Wise: understands what is true, right or lasting.
to lean in one direction or the other. 34 Generous: willing to give more than fairly.
While it is likely that a character will have Darkside traits, it has 35 Imaginative: a clever, resourceful mind.
been stated before that the designers of Central Casting strongly 36 Forgiving(*): able to pardon faults in others.
feel that actively roleplaying out Darkside traits is a bad idea. 37 Virtuous(*): chaste, pure, of excellent morals.
Instead, Central Casting takes what can best be called a redemp­ 38 Dependable: does duties reliably, responsibly.
tive approach to character development. The goal of the character 39 Well-mannered: polite, courteous.
afflicted with Darkside traits should be to roleplay out how he or she 40 Benign(*): gentle, inoffensive.
overcomes the problem aspect of his or her personallty. 41 Friendly: warm and comforting.
42 Humble: lack of pretense, not proud.
Good vs. Evil: Certain traits are usually found only in good 43 Energetic: does things quickly, with verve.
people, as they are not in keeping with evil acts. Traits marked with 44 Truthful(*): always tells the truth.
an asterisk (*) will usually not be found in strongly evil characters 45 Cheerful: always happy and smiling.
(such as NPC villains) unless they are a part of split personality 46 Enthusiastic: excited, can't wait to act.
(that is to say, a good personality and an evil personality in the 47 Thrifty: careful with money.
1 same being). Some traits are normally found only in evil people, as 48 Diplomatic: careful to say the right thing.
they are not in keeping with good acts. Traits marked with a dagger 49 Extra trait: roll twice more on this table
(t) will usually not be found in "good" characters.

11 Table 641 continues on the next page ...

11
d4/d10 641B: Neutral Traits (roll d4 & dlO)
10 Curious: inquisitive, needs to know. 10 Pessimist: always see the bad side of things.
11 Hedonist: pleasure is the most important thing. 11 Egoist: selfish concern for own welfare.
12 Precise: always exacting. 12 Obstructive: acts to block other's actions.
13 Studious: studies often, pays attention to detail. 13 Cruel (t): coldhearted and hurtful.
14 Mysterious: has an air of mystery about him. 14 Careless: incautious in thought and deed.
15 Loquacious: talks and talks and talks and ... 15 Thoughtless: rarely thinks of others' feelings.
16 Silent: rarely talks. 16 Flippant: unable to be serious about anything.
17 Foppish: vain, preoccupied with appearance. 17 Drunkard: constantly overindulges in alcohol.
18 Immaculate: clean and orderly. 18 Suspicious: trusts no one.
19 Rough: unpolished, unrefined. 19 Violent (t): seeks physical conflict.
20 Skeptic: disbelieving of things unproven. 20 Argumentative: starts arguments and fights.
21 Immature: acts younger than age. 21 Irreverent (t): mocks religion and God.
22 Even-tempered: rarely angry or over joyous. 22 Cheat (t): shortchanges others of their due.
23 Rash: acts before thinking. 23 Hateful (t): strongly dislikes others.
24 Extroverted: outgoing. 24 Selfish: unwilling to share time and possessions.
25 Introverted: focus one's interests in oneself. 25 Slovenly: messy, nothing is ever put away.
26 Materialistic: puts emphasis on possessions. 26 Filthy: knows nothing of hygiene.
27 Aesthetic: possessions are unnecessary. 27 Tardy: always late.
28 Amoral: no care for right or wrong. 28 Self-doubting: unsure of self and abilities.
29 Dreamy: a distant daydreamer. 29 Cowardly: afraid to face adversity.
30 Creative: able to make something out of nothing. 30 Disrespectful: does not show respect.
31 Leader: takes initiative, can take command. 31 Angry: spirit always unsettled, never at peace.
32 Follower: prefers to let others lead. 32 Impatient: unable to wait with calmness.
33 Emotional: rarely keeps emotions in check. 33 Foolish: unable to discern what is true or wise.
34 Emotionless: rarely shows emotions. 34 Greedy: hoards all for self.
35 Humorous: appreciates humor and likes to joke. 35 Dull: a slow, uncreative mind.
36 Grim: unsmiling, humorless, stern of purpose. 36 Vengeful: revenge is the way to punish faults.
37 Conservative: restrained, opposed to change. 37 Immoral: lecherous, lawless, devoid of morals.
38 Liberal: tolerant of others, open to change. 38 Untrustworthy (t): not worth trusting.
39 Aggressive: assertive, bold, enterprising. 39 Rude: polite, courteous.
40 Passive: accepts things without resisting them. 40 Harsh: ungentle, sharp-tongued.
41 Selfsufficient: does not need others. 41 Unfriendly: cold and distant.
42 Dependent: needs others around him. 42 Egotistic: proud and conceited.
43 Romantic: given to feelings of romance. 43 Lazy: difficult to get motivated.
44 Logical: uses deductive reasoning. 44 Liar: hardly ever tells the truth.
45 Illogical: may not use reason to make decisions. 45 Morose: always gloomy and moody.
46 Frivolous: flighty, harebrained, rarely serious. 46 Unenthusiastic: can't get excited.
47 Aloof: distant from others, even cold. 47 Spendthrift: spends money without thought.
48 Atheistic: denies existance of the supernatural. 4¥ Tactless: speaks before thinking.
49 Extra trait: roll twice more on this table 49 Extra trait: roll twice more on this table

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11
642: Exotic Personality Traits 83 642: Exotic Personality Traits

642:
Exotic
Personality
Traits
Use only if directed here by another table
Use this table when the character assumes some truly un­
usual, often exotic, or even undesirable personality trait. The traits
here might even be called personality afflictions. They run the
gamut from simple fears to bizarre behavior. Folks with these traits
are considered eccentric, odd or even bizarre.
Instructions: Roll a d20 and match the result on Table
642A: Exotic Feature Categories. This selects the general cate­
gory of the exotic personality feature. To determine the specific
feature, go to the table indicated by the selected category.
Record the feature in the PERSONALITY section of the work­
sheet and if the trait is also a Lightside, Darkside, or Neutral trait,
mark the box that corresponds to the trait's alignment. Write any Roleplay: A person with an exotic personality feature is de­
additional information in the EVENTS section. cidedly different from other folk, regardless of whether the feature
is readily apparent to others or not. Often, a person with such a trait
Developing a Personality: Many events that occur in a may try to hide it from others. He may imagine that what he does
character's life also cause his personality to develop. Personality or is, is normal and acceptable, or taken to the extreme, may not
traits shape the way he acts or responds later in life. Some of these even be aware that he possesses such an odd personality feature.
traits are good or Lightside traits; others are considered bad or
Darkside traits; and still others are Neutral, neither good nor bad. Real Life: Note that the depiction of these personality traits,
Most features here are not aligned (that is, they are neither many of which are considered physical and mental illnesses or
Darkside, Lightside, nor Neutral traits) and do not count toward de­ handicaps, is in no way intended to belittle those who must cope
termining alignment. Those that will affect the selection of the with them on a day to day basis in their own lives. Very few would
character's alignment are followed bya letter enclosed in brackets. choose to be as they are, but learning to deal with their problems
This letter represents the type of personality traitthatdevelops be­ often forges them into better representatives of humanity than
cause of the event that sent you here. An [LJ means a Lightside those of us who are healthy and whole. People do not gain strength
trait. A [DJ means a Darkside trait and an [NJ means a Neutral trait. by overcoming small challenges.
When you get to Table 312: Alignment & Attitude, the instructions
there will tell you what to do with the letters. 642A: Exotic Feature Categories
Trait Control: Use the chart below to gauge the amount of Instructions: Roll a d20 and match the result against Table
control the character has over the trait or vice versa. Select a trait 642Abelow.
strength from the left-hand column that best suits the character.

Trait Control Chart d20 642A: Exotic Feature Categories

Trivial Feature is barely noticeable, even when actively affect­
ing the character. Special circumstances may have to 01-03 Mental Affliction (Go to Table 642B')*
exist for the feature to come into play. 04-06 Phobia (Go to Table 642C)
Weak Feature is easily sublimated, overcome, or ignored, but 07-10 Allergy (Go to Table 642D}
is noticeable when actively affecting character. 11-16 Behavior Tag (Go to Table 642£)
Average There is an uneasy balance. Feature is not active unless 17-18 Sexual Perversion (Go to Table 642F)*
the character is caught off guard or is too fatigued to 19-20 Several Features manifest themselves. Roll 1 d3+ 1
control himself. times on this table.
Strong Unless character consciously resists the feature, it
manifests itself strongly. * Warning: the author recommends that these features be
Driving Feature dominates the character's life -character finds pliyec:i only by adults capable of roleplaying them in a mature
it difficult to resist its compulsions. manner. If roleplaying a character with a mental affliction or
Obsessive Character cannot rest or find peace unless actively pur­ sexual perversion makes you uncomfortable, reroll the feature.
suing the desires, needs or compulsions of the feature.

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II
642: Exotic Personality Traits 84 642: Exotic Personality Traits

642B: Mental Afflictions poses. Many are treatable, even by today's medical practices -

Instructions: Roll a d20 and match the result against Table

if the person desires help.
Real Life: The following are game descriptions-yet if you
notice these symptoms in a friend (particularly depression or talk
of suicide), confide in someone you trust: a parent, a counselor, a
6428: Mental Afflictions.
Roleplay: Many roleplay games lump these mental afflic­ doctor, a minister, priest, or rabbi. Don't wait, you may be the only
tions together as insanity. They are best defined as mental ill­ help your friend will ever have.
nesses. The symptoms are greatly simplified here for game pur-

d20 642B: Mental Affliction (roll 2d10) d20 642B: Mental Affliction (roll 2d10)
Catatonia. When overstimulated or over stressed, the 13 Hysterical injury. Person believes he suffers the effects of
character collapses into a fetal position completely and totally a serious injury. Determine "injury" on Table 859: Serious Wounds.
1

withdrawing from the world - deaf, unfeeling, unseeing. 14 Obsessive behavior. With a need to perform some action
2 Multiple personalltles. The person literally becomes to the exclusion of everything else, the character cannot be com­
someone else. 1d3 additional personae may manifest them­ fortable, or in extreme cases, think rationally, until the obsession
selves, usually to help the character deal with something his is resolved. The obsession can vary from something simple, like
"normal" identity can't handle. Each individual personality should cleaning, to a need to expunge evil (or good) from the universe.
have one key personality trait that typifies it, possibly basing the To selectthe object of the obsession, either make something
entire personality around that trait. Selectthe trait on Table312A: up, or roll a d10 on the subtable below:
Personality Trait Types. Additionally, each personality has a 60% 1 Devotion to a Lightside trait. Select on Table 641A.
chance to have an Exotic Personality Feature. 2 Devotion to a Darkside trait. Select on Table 641G.
3 Compulsive Lying [D]. The person cannot tell the simple 3 Character has an obsessive hatred. Roll a d3 to select
truth, but must always reinterpret or expand upon it. the target of the hate [D]:
1 Any nonhuman
4 Paranoia [D]. This is a feeling of persecution, that everyone 2 Machines
is out to get you, or is plotting against you. Extreme cases may 11 3 Someone. Select type on Table 743: Others.
imagine fantastic plots concocted by alien beings. May plot to Character feels an obsessive need to destroy. [DJ.
strike back at his oppressors (i.e., at everyone). 5 Character feels an obsessive need to clean.
4

5 Hallucinations. She sees unreal visions and distortions of Character is obsessively superstitious.
reality. Each occurrence has a 10% chance of driving the 7 Character feels an obsessive need to help others.
6

character into temporary Catatonia (see entry #1 of this table). 8 Character feels an obsessive need to collect particular
objects (possibly even owning everything of that type).
6 Megalomania [D]. This is infantile delusions of personal om­ Roll a d4 to select the object on the subtable below:
nipotence and grandeur (commonly found in petty tyrants, self­ 1 An item taken from Table 853: Gifts & Legacies.
important bosses, and other egotists). 2 Gold (or maybe platinum, gemstones, etc.).
7 Severely Phobic. Character has an unreasoning, obses­ 3 Animals
sive fear of something of the GM's choice. 4 Beautiful things (including people).
Hypochondria [NJ. This is an unhealthy concern for one's Delusional Identity. Characterbelieves self to be a famous
health. Person only has to hear of a new disease to imagine that personage, usually someone quite well known from history or
8 15

he suffers or is even dying from it. current events. Actions are otherwise quite normal, if one ac­
cepts that the character is acting as someone else.
9 Manic-depressive [DJ. Alternating, excitable hyperactivity
and inability to cope with everyday pressures. 16 Kleptomania [D]. This is an obsessive impulse to steal, re­
gardless of want or need.
10 Quixotism. This deluded soul sees proof of the fantastic
everywhere she looks. Even the most mundane thing becomes 17 Pyromania [DJ. This is an obsessive impulse to set, and
an example of the supernatural or faery. The character's visions then watch fires.
are most likely hallucinatory ... butthen again, maybe they're not. 18 Hebephrenia. Character remains semi-aware of surround­
GM Only: see entry #642A on Table 965: GM's Specials. ings, but ignoring others. He may wander aimlessly, giggling,
11 Panzaism. This character cannot see evidence of the muttering to self and sometimes acting in a childish manner. If
fantastic or supernatural in any way shape or form. Even obvious sufficiently annoyed, the character may become violent, then
examples are seen as things mundane. Such a character could subside into a catatonic state for a few hours.
easily be an atheist, too. GM Only: see entry #6428 on Table 19 Berserker Rage-Mindless Aggression [DJ. Person is
965: GM's Specials. subject to fits of mindless aggression lasting 1d100 minutes.
12 Depression. Beyond merely feeling a bit "down" or "blue," 20 Multiple Afflictions. Roll 1d3+1 more times on this table.
the afflicted person feels that all hope is gone. Unable to cope Afflictions have a 60% chance to have some form of interrelation­
with their problems, or even ask for help, talking about or ship: one intensifies another or causes it to occur, or is the object
attempting suicide is how they communicate their unspoken cry or t�rget of the other. Example: A phobia reaction is so intense
for help. Reduce all skill Ranks to half when depressed. the character becomes catatonic.

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642: Exotic Personality Traits 85 642: Exotic Personality Traits

642C: Phobias 642D: Allergies

The phobias included here have been chosen for their appro­ Instructions: Roll a d10. Match the results against
priateness to contemporary roleplay gaming. The thing feared is Table 6420 below to select the allergy, then read the allergy
listed first, then the phobia's name. rules that follow.
Instructions: Roll a d4 and a d1oat the same time. The Allergy rules: After being exposed to the allergen (thing
results are not added, but are read like a two-digit number. The d4 causing allergy), the character begins to react to the allergen
result is always the first or"10's"digit. Example: a d4 result of 4 and and suffer from the allergy's effects. Roll a d1Oto select the al­
a d10 result of oare read as a 40. Match the number against Table lergy's Trait Strength (this varies from the rules on page 82). The
642Cto select the thing feared.
effects vary with the allergy's Trait Strength, but are classed as
Mild (1-4), Serious (5-7), Severe (8-9), and Deadly (10).
Roleplay: A phobia is something that the character is deep­ A character with a below-average Constitution attribute
ly afraid of, possibly for no known reason. The afflicted character adds 1d3 points to the allergy's initial Trait Strength. A charac­
will do what he can to avoid the thing feared. A person in power may ter with an above-average Constitution attribute subtracts 1d3
try to have the source of his fear destroyed. points from the allergy's initial Trait Strength.
Allergy Treatments: Allergies can be treated and control­
led with drugs. If character is taking allergy medicine, reduce
level of Allergy Reaction by 1d4 levels.
d4/d10 642C: Phobia (roll a d4 and a dlO) Allergy
Reaction Effects
10 Alone (Monophobia)-fear of being alone.
11 Animals (Zoophobia) Mild: Red, itchy eyes, sniffles. Minus 1 Rank to combat skills
12 Blood (Hematophobia) until 1d3 hours after exposure ends.
13 Cats (Ailuroophobia)-especially house cats. Serious: As above, plus asthmatic reaction (hard to get one's
14 Cold (Psychrophobia or Frigophobia) breath). Minus 3 Ranks to combat skills, minus 1d8 to Strength
15 Colors (Chromophobia)-usually specific colors (select attribute.
the color on Table 855: Co/ors). Severe: As above, plus skin rash and high fever. Subtract
16 Computers (Cyberphobia or Technophobia) 1d6+3 Ranks from all skills. Victim is very ill and cannot clear
17 Corpses (Necrophobia)-may include undead. head to concentrate (especially on psychic abilities). 1d3 hit
18 Darkness (Achluophobia) points are lost, if victim does not end exposure upon occurrence
19 Enclosed spaces (Claustrophobia) of symptoms.
20 Everything (Pantophobia) Deadly: As above, but victim is unconscious. Medical attention
21 Females (Gynephobia)-usually found in males. will be necessary to revive the victim.
22 Fire (Pyrophobia)
23 Flying (Aerophobia)-also fear of the air.
24 God (Theophobia)-one God or all gods?!?! dlO 642D: Allergies (roll a dlO)
25 Hair (Trichophobia)-hairy monsters/aliens, hair on people.
26 Heights (Acrophobia) 1 Fur. Additional symptom of constant sneezing.
27 Insects (Entomophobia)-also buglike monsters/aliens. 2 Dust. Additional symptom of constant sneezing.
28 Machinery (Mechanophobia)-also spaceships. 3 Insect Bites/Stings. Multiple bites or stings, increase the
29 Males (Androphobia)-usually found in females. reaction level by one.
30 Monstrosities (Teratophobia )-fear of monsters. 4-5 Food. Roll a d6. If the result is 1-3, it's a common, usually
31 Mutants (Mutatophobia) high protein food. Cheese, eggs, red meat and wheat flour are
32 Night (Nyctophobia) examples. If the result is 4-5, it's an unusual food like caviar,
33 Open spaces (Agoraphobia ) foreign cuisine, soybean scuffle, marshmallow and anchovy
34 Physical Love (Erotophobia) pizza, etc. If the result is 6, it's an exotic (or even alien) food. Use
35 Pain (Algophobia) your imagination and consider what an alien might find yummy.
36 Plants (Botanophobia)-they're everywhere .... 6 Fabric. Allergies to wool or other natural and even synthetic
37 Polson (Toxiphobia) fabrics can be unpleasant to the wearer.
38 Reptiles (Batrachophobia) - possibly aliens & monsters. 7 A Common Medicine. Maybe aspirin, antibiotics, stimu-
39 Sinning (Peccatophobia) afraid of doing wrong. lants, depressants, home-made chicken soup.
40 Slime (Blennophobia)-slimy aliens & monsters too! 8 An Unusual Medicine. Could be experimental, ancient or
41 Snakes (Ophidophobia) even alien medications.
42 Space-fear of outer space and space travel. 9 Mold. Includes mildew and possibly even damp dirt. Addi-
43 Spiders (Arachnophobia) tional symptom of constant sneezing.
44 Storms (Astraphobia) including thunder & lightning. 10 Energy Radiation. The character is sensitive to one of the
45 Strangers (Xenophobia) - including aliens! following types of radiated energy. Roll a d6 and match the
46 Water (Hydrophobia) results on subtable below:
47 Wind (Anemophobia) Nuclear Radiation 4 Laser Light
48 Wounds or Injuries (Traumatophobia )
49 More than one fear. Reroll 1d3+1 times on this table.
Solar Radiation 5 Electricity
Cosmic Rays 6 Magical Energy

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II
642: Exotic Personality Traits 86 642: Exotic Personality Traits

642E: Behavior Tags results are not added, but are read like a two-digit number. Thed4
A Behavior tag is an unusual, or uncommon type of action or result is always the first or"1O's" digit. Example: a d4 result of 1 and
activity which the character performs, usually out of habit. It is a a d1 O result of O are read as 10. Match the number against Table
personality trait by which the character becomes known, such as 642Eto select the unusual behavior.
"an absent-minded professor," or ''the cat lady." Roleplay: These are colorful "trademarks" by which a char­
Instructions: Roll a d4 and a d1 oat the same time. The acter becomes known. Have fun with them.

d4/d10 642E: Behavior Tags (roll a d4 & a dlO) d4/d10 642E: Behavior Tags (continued ... )
10 Secret Identity. Maintains two separate identities, switch­ 23 Know-It-all [NJ. Has an opinion or knows the ''truth" about
ing as necessary to keep both "active." Create a second back­ everything (but, of course, you already knew that). Actually has
ground. Decide which is real and which a charade. Come up with only a 10% chance to really know something.
a good reason for this (often a requirement for the spandex suit 24 Perfectionist. The character insists that all tasks be
and cape set). performed in accordance with her own extremelyhigh standards.
11 Flirtatious. Most interchanges with members of the
25 Squeamish. Can't stand to be around little creepy-crawly
opposite sex involve some kind of "innocent" or playful sexual things, or touch slimy stuff or watch other people bleed, or eat cer­
innuendo. tain types of foods. Treat like a phobia. See Table 642G: Phobias.
12 Chemical Addict [DJ. Character's day-to-day existence 26 Stuttering. Reduce Charisma attribute by 1 d4 when
centers around a chemical substance, such as tobacco, alcohol, talking. Penalize any speaking skills by 1 d3 Ranks, more if the
narcotics, caffeine, chocolate, etc. Character becomes "ugly" character is under pressure or nervous.
and unpleasant if deprived of the substance for too long. All skills
drop by 1 Rank until character gets a "fix." 27 Sexy. Regardless of his or her appearance, members of
the opposite sex are strongly attracted to the character.
13 Primps Constantly. Character is constantly and publicly
combing or brushing hair, applying makeup, straightnening cloth­ 28 Bloodthirsty [D]. Seems to enjoy combat just a little too
ing or otherwise maintaining, correcting or improving his or her much, particularly when blood is spilled.
physical appearance.
29 An Attitude! Go to Table418:0ccupation Performance
15 Absentminded. The character misplaces things easily­ and roll a d20 and a d6 on Table41BA: Work Attitudes. This work­
the more important something is, the greater the chance it will be related attitude strongly influences all aspects of the character's
mislaid. Items that are set down, dropped or hidden have a behavior.
1 d20% chance of being lost permanently. 30 Dislike something. Go to Table 642G: Phobias and
16 Fumble-fingers. Regardless of her Dexterity attribute or determine what the character doesn't like. This is not a fear, but
skills, this character is often clumsy with things she holds in her is instead something the character does not care for. The
hands. Atthe worst moments, they seem to slip or more likely, flip strength of the trait determines the degree of dislike.
out of her hands. The base chance is 1 d4 x 10%. 31 High Pain Threshold. She laughs off wounds that would
17 Collector. The character surrounds himself with things normally incapcitate another character. Each time the charar­
that appeal to him. These things may be valuable, historically acter receives a wound that would incapacitate her, she has a
important, attractive, or just plain unusual. 60% chance to treat it as a non-incapacitating injury and to con­
tinue to function (the GM may have to make judgement calls as
18 Romantic. Character yearns for idealized adventures needed here).
and can't understand why the world has to be so harsh and real.
19 Distinctive Possession. Select an object on Table 853:
32 Low Pain Threshold. ANY pain makes the effective
Gifts & Legacies, for which the character is well known and from value of all skills and attributes drop by 1 d6 Ranks or points.
which he may not wish to be parted. Roll until you get something 33 Insomniac. Character finds it almost impossible to sleep
with which you are comfortable. or get any rest ... at least during the night.
20 Ego Signature [NJ. Character cannot do anything anon­ 34 Fanatic. Strong belief in some idea and an equally strong
ymously, but must leave some mark or item that links him with the devotion to its achievement, even to the point of death.
act (An example is the 'Mark of Zorro'). This character has a 25% 35 Picky Eater. Character won't try new foods, even to the
chance to be a Vandal [DJ who leaves his mark by destroying or
defacing property. point of going hungry rather than eat something disliked. Diet
maybe limited to afew"cornfortfoods" enjoyed during childhood.
21 Hiccupping. Brought on by stress or eating, these range When presented with any new food, the character has a d 1o x
from mild "hies" to thunderous body shakers. At the GM's 10% chance to dislike the food. This does not mean the character
discretion, these diaphragm glitches can cause penalties to is thin. Comfort foods are often high in carbohydrates and fat!
fighting and skill use checks.
36 Glutton. Character eats like there is no tomorrow, wheth­
22 Unusual Appearance. The character compensates for, er he is hungry or not. Eats at least twice as much as a normal
or is self-conscious about some aspect of his or her appearance. bei11'Q of his race. Has a 70% chance to be grossly overweight.
Select the feature on Table 861: Appearances.
Continued ... �

11 Table 642 continues on the next page ...

11
642: Exotic Personality Traits 87

d4/d10 642E: Behavior Tags (continued ... )

37 Pacifist. Character will not fight. This ranges from
vowing never to kill, never taking an offensive stance in combat
(self-defense only), or even ''turning the other cheek" and not
defending oneself at all.
38 Gung Ho! This character has an aggressive, excited 642F: Sexual Perversions [DJ*
attitude that she applies to every task.
.. Sexual Perversions are considered to be
39 Pet Lover [L]. Has many pets. Usually brings one along. Darkside personality traits by most societies
Always looking for something else to bring home. May focus on
a type of animal, cats, dogs, giant amoebae, etc. during much of the 20th century.
40 Polltlcal Activist [L]. Always involved in some kind of A Position Statement
cause. Most support the masses against their overlords, but it Some forms of behavior are wrong, that's why they are called
may involve protecting something from destruction like "Save Darkside traits. Engaging in such behavior hurts oneself and
the Ice Caps" or "Equal Rights for Field Mice." others. Some forms of sexual behavior fall into the category of
wrong behavior, for they are perversions of nature. While the
41 Practical Joker. Enjoys pulling off jokes at other's ex­ people who perform such behavior may be otherwise"good," they
pense. He's a guy who hot-wires toilets, puts shoe-polish on the can perform wrong actions, just as a driver of a car may sometimes
eyepieces of binoculars, and soaps the windows of your all­ speed, or a parent snap at a child in anger. Nevertheless, wrong
terrain vehicles. Whose side is he on anyway? behavior does not become right just because many misguided
42 Neatnlk [NJ. This is an obsessively neat person.Person­ people engage in it.
al effects are always clean, polished, sharp, well-organized,
and neatly arranged. Dislikes mess and has a 10% chance to Real World Stuff
have a phobia regarding dirt. Despite "popular" trends in culture and psychology, the au­
43 Slob. Unconcerned about the appearance of her person thors of this book believe the following three statements to be true:
or property. Tends to be disorganized where belongings are A. Any sexual relationship other than that between a husband
involved, takes longer to find things (though she may be a and wife is wrong.
master of the "vertical piling" system in which items are located B. Perverse sexual desires are a form of learned and ingrained
in a manner similar to geological sedimentation. behavior and as such can be controlled, overcome and eventually
44 Packrat [NJ. "Say, this looks like it might be useful!"is the replaced by healthy desires and behavior.
battle-cry of this fellow who picks up everything, but never C. Using roleplay to vicariously experience wrong behavior is
throws any of it away. On the other hand, he always has justthe a bad idea.
right thing for any situation ... if he can just find it. While we are not called to be judges, it is our belief that those
45 Unique Physical Habit. An action which the character who chose to continue in perverse behavior will ultimately be held
performs unconsciously. Select from the following, or create accountable for their actions. Those who seek to brainwash
your own-winking, rapid blinking, licking or smacking lips, society into accepting such behavior as normal are only making
swallowing, rubbing part of face or body, waving hands while the problem worse for themselves and others.
speaking, twisting hair, snapping or drumming fingers.
Gameplay Stuff
46 Figures of Speech [DJ. Constantly fills her conversa­
tions and pronouncements with colorful phrases, often based The goalfor a character afflicted with a sexual perversion then,
on homey sayings, like "Dance 'tilthe cowscome home,"or"Th­ is the goal of a character afflicted with any Darkside trait-not to
icker'n fleas on a dawg," or "We have wonderful old saying in experience acting out wrong behavior, but instead, to overcome
my country ... " the wrong behavior through roleplay.
47-49 Quite Eccentric. Roll 1d3+ 1 times for multiple Behavior Perversions
Tags. Reroll conflicting Tags, such as Neatnik and Slob.
Rather than dwell on the vast variety of possible perverse
behaviors, the authors suggest that if a player or DM really feels the
neep to create an NPC or player character afflicted by a sexual
perversion, he or she need only refer to recent news headlines for
a selection of popular perversions. Select something appropriate
for the character and his or her purpose in the game.

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11
743: Others 88 743: Others

743: vides that identity, acting as a sort of "central clearing house" for
other lists of persons.
Instructions: Roll a d1o and match the result against Table
743. This is the general class person that has been encountered,
although it may also be a specific person. Some entries will require
Others additional rolls on another table. Roll Hi/Lo for the person's sex if
necessary. Hi= female, Lo= male. Both GM and player may wish
to add more details to some of these NPCs. To do so refer to the
Use only if directed here by another table chapter on NPCs on page 11 and/or Table 107: Parents & NPCs.
Roleplay: Throughout life, the character will interact with
This is a general listing of types of "Other Persons" encoun­ other persons. Imagine the character's reaction to this person
tered, people and creatures who may act as friends or foes, anta­ within the contex1 of the event in which he or she appears. Imagine
gonists or allies. Many tables in this book require an identity for a the other person's reaction to the character. Does the encounter
foe, a victim, an instigator or a chance encounter. This table pro- have a good outcome, or are ill feelings generated?

dl0 743: Others (roll a dl0) dl0 743: Others (continued... )

1 Friends and Family. These are persons with whom the 4 Weird Folk. These are very unusual Others. Roll a d6 on
character is familiar. Roll a d6 to select the encounter. the subtable below to determine more details.
1 A close friend. Possibly a Companion (see Table 750: 1 A villain. This is an active bad person. Select details about
Companions). Let the GM decide who this will be. the villain on Table 752: Villains.
2 A relative. Select on Table 104D: Other Relations. 2 A monster. Select from Table 748: Horrors.
3 The character's lover. Reroll if currently no lover or 3 An alien. Select type on Table 747:Aliens, then roll again
spouse. on this table.
4 A coworker. Someone who works with the character. 4 A deranged person. This person has a strong mental
5 A neighbor. This is someone who lives nearby. The GM affliction (Driving strength or greater). Select the affliction
should decide who this will be. on Table 6428: Mental Afflictions.
6 A mentor. The wise person who guides the character. 5 A time traveler. This is a person (or persons) from another
period of history, who is out of place now. Reroll on this
2 Known Folks. These are persons who the character
knows, though they may not be close friends. Roll a d6 to select table to select the type of person or person encountered.
Roll Hi/Lo. Hi= from distant past. Lo= from last 200 years
the encounter. 6 A robot. This is an artificially constructed being. Use the
1 A rival. Select Rival on Table 751: Rivals. sub-subtable for a brief classification.

1
2 A family friend. Probably a friend of the character's
parents. 1 A computer 5 A beast-like robot
3 Employer. Character's current employer (if any).
2 A human-like android 6 Machine like robot
4 A clergyman. Select details regarding his religion Table
3 A biosynthetic creature 4 An alienoid robot
533: Religion. 5 Kids. These are generic young people. Unless the char­
5 Old friend. This is someone whom the character has not acter is also a young person atthe timeof the encounter, she may
seen for a number of years. not know this other person. Roll a d4 to learn more.
6 A fellow member. Most folks are "belongers." They join 1 A teenager. Someone between the ages of 14 and 19.
clubs, churches or temples, secret societies and social 2 A kid. Someone between the ages of 8 and 13.
groups. This person is a member of a group to which the 3 A young child. Someone between the ages of 3 and 8.
character might also belong. 4 A baby or toddler. Child between the ages of birth and 2.
3 Unusual People. These are strangers, unknown to the 6 Just Folks. Roll a d6 to learn more about these people.
character. Roll a d6 to select the encounter. 1 Government worker. Use Table 416: Gov't Jobs.
1 A criminal. Select type on Table 862: Crimes. 2 Someone known by occupation. Select occupation on
2 A professional hero. This person is well known as a hero. Table 413:Occupations.
3 A retired villain. Once a name to be feared, he now lives 3 A young family. A mother, father and 1d3 young children.
in retirement. Select details on Table 752: Villains. 4 A large family. Parents and 3d4children of varying ages.
4 A retired hero. This is someone who once was renowned 5 An elderly person. A person beyond their middle years.
for heroic deeds, possibly someone the character may 6 A couple. This is a man and a woman together.
have hero-worshipped as a child. Now, she lives a quiet
life, her great deeds forgotten by all. 7 A foreign person. Reroll the encounter on this table. The
5 A noble. Select title on Table 746: Nobles . In the world of resulting encounter is from another country or part of the world.
the 20th century, nobles will usually not be Americans. Use Use Table 101: Character Origins to select the point of origin.
Table 101: Character Origins table to select a possible 8-9 A group. Select the group on Table 744: Other Groups.
homeland for the noble.
6 An outcast. A street person, beggar, bum, hobo, hermit, 10 , Several others together. Roll 1d3+1 more times on this
leper, or prostitute. table.

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II
744: Other Groups 89 745: Guardians

744: 745:
Other Groups Guardians

Use only if directed here by another table Use only if directed here by another table

Rather than individuals, these are groups of Others. They are When a child's parents die or disappear, someone must be
treated as a group, not as individual NPCs, so don't worry about come responsible for her upbringing. This person, persons, crea­
their sex, age or personal details. ture, creatures or family become the character's guardians. In
many respects they take over the functions of parents.
Instructions: Roll a d20 and match the result against Table
744: Other Groups. Instructions: Roll a d20 and match the result against the
table to find the character's guardian. When an event calls for
something to happen to a parent, it happens to the guardian. If the
player so desires, the guardian's background can be developed
further. Refer to Table 107: Parents & NPCs for details.
Roleplay: The loss of one's parents is a tragedy that affects
the rest of a character's life. However, the role of the parent may
be replaced (to some extent) by others who either willingly or
unwillingly take up the responsibility of raising the character to
adulthood. A guardian might merely provide for the character's
physical needs, or become a loving replacement for lost parents.

d20 744: Other Groups (roll a d20) d20 745: Guardians (Roll a d20)
1 Popular music group. They look funny and make loud 1-4 A relative. Select the relative on Table 104D: Other
music and are accompanied by fans 50% of the time. Relations (rerolling results of mother or father).
2 Refugees. Victims of political persecution. 5-6 Character is raised in an orphanage with dozens, even
3 Pilgrims. Pious Folks on their way to a holy shrine. Might hundreds of other children.
be devout fanatics, or little more than tourists. 7-9 Character is raised by some Other person(s). Select the
4 Tourists. Visitors from afar, here to see the sights. guardian on Table 743: Others.
5 Commuters. Folks on their way to or from work. 10-11 Character is adopted by another family. Beginning with
6 School children. A group of kids. Table 104: Birth & Family, create this family just as you
7 Rowdy sports fans. Violence just looking for an excuse to would for the character's birth family.
happen. 12 Raised by priests or nuns in a monastery or convent. Go
8 Terrorists. Anything for the cause, no matter how hei­ to Table 533: Religion to determine 1d3 events that
nous. Use Table 101: Character Origins for their homeland. occur because of this background.
9 Cultists. Members of a secret religious organization. 13 Character has no guardian and fends for himself com­
10 Roving youth gang. Young toughs looking for trouble. pletely. Add 1d6 Ranks to Urban Survival skills.
These are not good kids. 14 Character is raised by street people. Add 1d4 Ranks to
11 Vigilante gang. Well-meaning citizens out looking for Urban Survival skills. Drop Social Status to Destitute.
troublemakers. 15 Character is raised by a criminal. Select the criminal type
12 Military patrol. Soldiers on the job. on Table 862 Crimesthen go to Table 526: Underworld
13 Revelers. Partying folks out for a good time. Events, to find criminal events that occur.
14 Government work crew. Expect to find aboutthree super­ 16 Character is passed from relative to relative until reach­
visors for each worker. ing the age of majority.
15 Biker gang. Tough folk on big machines. 17 Character is raised by a professional hero who saves her
16 Gypsy-like wanderers. Mysterious. They come and go in from a tragedy. Selecttragedy on Table 520: Tragedies.
the night. 18 Character is raised in a clinic by scientists. GM Only:
17 Protesters. Something's wrong with society and theywant see entry #745 on Table 965: GM's Specials.
everyone to know it. 19 Character is raised in a secretive adademy and gains
18 Rioters. These are protesters turned ugly and violent. 3 bonus points that may be distributed between Consti­
19 Police patrol. Out and about to keep the peace. ' tution, Strength and Dexterity attributes.
20 Roll twice more. Combine the results. 20 Roll twice more on this table and combine the two
guardian types together in an imaginative way.

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11
746: Nobles 90 746: Nobles

746: command loyal retainers to follow him. A Noble will have 1d4
hobbies in addition to an occupation. Select these hobbies on
Table 419: Hobbies.
Nobles GMing Note: Players character Noble� who insist on being
public figures should find themselves subjected to unwanted
attention much the same as a celebrity or popular political figure
Use only if directed here by another table might encounter.

Though Nobility has lost much of its value and meaning

as the years of 20th century have marched onward, there_ _i� still d100746A: Noble Notes (roll a dl00)
this wonderfully romantic imagery conjured by the possIbI1ity of 01 Emperor (Empress): Rules over kings and princes.
being of Noble blood (or at least marrying into it). TiMod:10d10. Lands:1d20x10.
Instructions: Roll a d100 to determine the title possessed 02-05 King (Queen): Ruler who is the supreme authority
by a Noble and match the result against Ta�le 746A: No1:Jle Notes. in his land. A king normally owes fealty to no
Follow the steps below to define the Noble s power and influence. other. TiMod:7d10. Lands: 1d1Ox10.
For a Noble whose Culture has not been previously determined, 06-10 Archduke (Archduchess): Royal duke, possibly
select the Tech Level on Table 102A and the Culture on Table next in line for the throne, always a sibling of a king
1028. If the character's sex has not been determined, roll for Hi/ or queen. TiMod: +4d10. Lands: 1d1Ox5.
Lo. Hi= female. Lo= male. 11-15 Prince (Princess): Child of a king or an emperor.
Also may be the ruler of a Principality in which case
Title: The titles for Nobles are given in terms of western Eu­ he is equal to a king. TiMod: +4d10. Lands: 1d20x5.
ropean and British peerage, alo_ng with a n�mber of tribal-type 16-20 Duke (Duchess): Rules over one or more mar-
leadership titles. For other countries, use the tItle that most closely quises. TiMod: +4d8. Lands: 1d1Ox5.
corresponds to the selected rank of Nobi!ity. The� are listed (top 21-30 Marquis (Marquese): Rules over one or more vis­
to bottom) in a rough hierarchy of who Is more important than counts. TiMod: +3d1O. Lands: 1d20+12.
whom. If the Noble is an alien or if the GM's world history is based 31-40 Viscount (Viscountess): Rules over one or more
on some other form of society, he is going to have to convert these counts. TiMod: +3d8. Lands: 1d20+10.
titles to ones that correspond with his chosen milieu. 41-45 Chieftain: Tribal leader, usually leads a single
TiMod: Each title has an associated Title Modifier (TiMod}, a tribe. TiMod: +3d6. Lands:2d6+8.
number that is added to the character's die roll (and CuMod) when 46-55 Count or Earl (Countess): Rules over bar­
Social Status is rerolled (see below). Some TiModsare created by ons. TiMod: +2d8. Lands: 2d10+4.
rolling dice., 56-70 Baron (Baroness): Rules a barony, smallest sized
Influence: Roll a d100 and add the NPC Noble's TiModtothe fiefdom. TiMod: +1d20. Lands: 1d10+4.
result. Match the total against Table 7468: Sphere of Influence to 71-80 Baronet (Baroness): Below a baron, given to com­
determine the actual extent of a Noble's influence and power. moners. TiMod: +2d8. Lands: 1d10.
Lands: Roll the indicated dice. This is the number of square 81-85 Subchieftain: A tribal chieftain's lieutenant. TiMod:
miles of land possessed by the Noble or at least deeded to him by +2d6. Lands:1d8.
his liege lord (usually in the form of personal estates). 86-90 Knight ("Sir" or "Lady"): An earned title which can­
Player Characters: For player characters who are t�e not be inherited. Usually granted by a king or
offspring of Nobles, the final step is_to return to Table 10�: S�c,al queen. TiMod: +2d6. Lands: 1d4.
Statusand reroll Social Status, adding both the character s T,Mod 91-95 Squire: A country gentleman of considerable local
(see above) and CuModto the roll. influence, not really Nobility though. TiMod: +1d6.
Roleplay: Nobles exist and live by the works of others, hav­ Lands: 1d10+4.
ing social value only when they coordinate, represent and protect 96-00 Hetman (Hetwoman): A village leader. TiMod:
those who do work. The justification of Nobility is based on th� +1d6. Lands: 1d4.
assumption that the accident of birth makes some people more fit
to lead others. The continuance of Nobility is based upon the facts
that '1hem what has, gets more" and "might makes right." ldlOO 746B: Sphere of Influence
Gameplay Benefits: Unless it has already been deter­ 01-70 Local: influence limited to a county, shire, or town,
mined that a character's parents have died, a player character �f either by control or renown (fame).
Noble Social Status will begin as the child of an N PC Noble and will 71-95 Regional: influence affects a limited, but substantial
have no actual title himself. portion of the country.
Due to their assumed importance to the scheme of things, 96-110 National: influences affects entire country, either by
characters of Noble birth may add 1d4 points to their Charisma control or renown (fame).
attribute so long as it is publicly known that they_ are a �obi�. 110+ Greatly Renowned!: influence is greater than title
An NPC Noble will have guards or other retainers with him at would indicate, due to character's great fame.
all times. The number will be equal to the the character's TiMod. ' Chances are that people around the world know of
At the GM's discretion, a Noble player character may be able to this character.

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II
747: Aliens 91 747: Aliens

747:
physical differences. Imagine how one of these beings would react
when encountering the character. Would their backgrounds cause
them to be instant friends, rivals, or even enemies, or merely be
suspicious of each other? Consider these things and what follows
before playing an alien or mutant like just another human.

Aliens
• Aliens should have a unique value structure. What a human
considers trivial may be of great importance to an alien.
• Aliens find the appearance of humanity just as hideous as
humans find them to be.
Use only if directed here by another table • Most races, human and alien alike, tend to be ethno-centric.
They favordealings with their own kind above dealings with others.
The more physically or culturally different that a race is from anoth­
This is a selection of typical aliens or wildly mutated races er, the greater will be the initial distrust.
that might appear in a more unusual roleplay game. • Make human-like races just as alien and unfathomable as you
Instructions: Roll a d20 and compare the results against might make a race of three-legged, silicon-based toadstools.
Table 747A:Alien Types. Next, roll a d20 on Table 7478:Custom • Have fun with aliens attempting to use human speech. Spice up
Parts to make the alien a little more unique and personalized. dialog by creatively muddling phrasing in alien speech: "So to be
star-travelling you are, eh." Do the same with accents. Some aliens
Roleplay: Aliens are nonhumans, and nonhumans are just won't speak with a radio announcer's perfect diction. Buzz, click,
that, not human. Like humans, they have their own motivations, chirp and hum to your heart's delight.
but these will be colored and skewed by their exotic lives and their

d20 747A: Alien Types (roll a d20) d20 747B: Custom Parts (roll a d20)
1 Human-appearing. Looks like a standard issue human 1-2 Reroll 1d4 more times on this table.
being, yet he or she is somehow different. 3 Alien can appear human if it desires to do so.
2-3 Human-like. These beings so closely resemble human­ 4 Alien is a striking and unusual color. Select it on Table
kind that only a few characteristic features set them 855: Colors.
apart, such as pointed ears or an exotic skin color. Typi­ 5 Alien's reproductive/sexual mores are different from
cal of aliens from games based on TV shows. human normal. What humans consider a perversion,
4 Near Human. This creature is much like a human, but they see as normal and vice versa.
has subtle features from anothertype of alien. Select the 6 Alien eats bipedal, sentient mammals.
type of alien by rerolling on this table. 7 Alien has 1d4 abilities from Table 860: Psychic Powers.
5 Intelligent Animal Species. Use Table 749: Unusual 8 Alien has 1d4 abilities from Table 858: Exotic Features.
Pets to create a creature. Make it sentient. 9 Alien has 1d4 "alienized" features from TablfJ 861: Ap-
6 Amoeboid. Amorphous, malleable shape. pearances.
7 Bestial. A "humanized" version of a common animal. 10 Alien is 1d10x larger than a human being.
Use Table 749: Unusual Pets to create a creature. This 11 Alien is 1d1 Ox smaller than a human being.
creature is now a humanoid, animal-like alien species. 12 The alien requires a different atmospheric mix than a
8 Aerial. Flyers, often with bird-like or bat-like wings. human. Roll a d6. On result of 6, this atmosphere is
9 Amphibian. Dwell in water or air equally well. deadly poisonous to Earth life forms.
10 A Horror. It really looks like something out of a late night 13 Alien's Tech Level is 1 d4 levels above Earth's highest!.
movie. Select the alien type on Table 748: Horrors. 14 Alien's native technology is 1d10 levels lower than cur­
11 lnsectold. Closely resemble bugs or spiders. rent earth level.
12 Radially symmetrical. A starfish is an example of a ra­ 15 Alien's body fluids are highly corrosive.
dially symmetrical being. 16 Alien is a villain among its own kind. Select relevant
13 Multlpedal. Has many feet and possibly a correspond­ details on Table 752: Villains (begin with 7528 ).
ing number of manipulative limbs. 17 Alien is mindless, not sentient as we understand it.
14 Piscean. Fishlike beings. May or may not be restricted to 18 Alien is a mundane sort of creature with a mundane sort
water-filled environments. of job. Select it on Table 413: Occupations.
15 Reptilian. Reptile-like beings, usually with scalesandof­ 19 Alien can interbreed with humans (usually human fe­
ten with tails. Includes snake-like beings. males). Roll 1d6. On a result of 6, the alien uses other life
16 Young Allen. Alien is a child. Reroll its species on this forms as hosts for its larvae.
table. 20 The alien's 12d+1 sexes are RADICALLY different from
18 Botanic. Plant-like beings, including molds & fungi. each other. Decide whether the type of creature first
19 Non-organic. This is a broad classification that includes, selected is the "fertilizer" or the "nurturer'' or "other," and
mineral-based life forms, energy-based beings and even reroll the other racial type as if it were a completely
robots. different being.
20 Combined alien. Roll twice more on this table and com­
bine the results. Example: multipedal reptilian. '

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748: Horrors 92

748:
Horrors
Use only if directed here by another table

These are the creatures out of nightmare. They are rarely

benevolent and often hold only ill for humankind.
Instructions: Roll a d20 and match the result against the table
of monsters below.
Roleplay: Imagine how your character would react to meeting
this horror. Think about the way you may have felt or reacted to
something unknown that frightened you.

d20 748: Monster Type (roll a d20) d20 Monster Type (continued ... )
1 Vampire. A blood or energy sucking fiend. Nevertheless, of 13 Terrible Plant. Whether it came from space, from a scien­
all the monsters here, it has the greatest chance to be urbane, tist's laboratory or is supernatural in nature, this fiendish vegeta­
charming and resistant to its own base desires. tion is often bent on world domination. Roll a d6 on the subtable
2 Werewolf. Cursed by the bite of another werewolf, this below.
creature prowls in search of prey on moonlit nights and agonizes 1 Carnivorous Plant 4 Sentient Fungus
over his sorry existence by day. 11 2 Animated Vegetables 5 Evil Tree
3 Zombie. This animated corpse walks at the bidding of some 3 Creeping Vines 6 Deadly Flower
dark master. It might be a dumb, mindless creature or one of the 14 Flying Horror. This could be a bat-winged monster, an
fiendish hungry dead who prey on living flesh. ancient dinosaur, or a giant carnivorous bird. It rarely leaves
4 Ghoul. A vile eater of the dead, once a human being, now tracks, because it swoops down from above to carry its victim
decidedly not. away.
s Ghost. The wretched soul of someone whose tie to life, and 15 Machine Menace. The creation of a well-meaning (usually)
possibly a place is too great for them to let mere death get in the scientist or inventor, this thing has gone amok and set its own
way. goals. Roll a d6 on the subtable below.
6 Tentacled Horror. There arethings that men are not meant
fo know. These creatures are often guardians of such knowledge 1 Sentient computer 4 Alien machine
11 2 Giant robot 5 Home-built robot
and drip with noisome slime.
7 Demon/Evil Spirit. The true war against evil is not fought 3 Human-like android 6 Golem (magical being)
against flesh and blood, but against beings such as this, one of 16 The Horde. Hundreds, even thousands (millions?) of small,
the powers or principalities from Hell itself. otherwise (relatively) harmless creatures suddenly act as if they
8 Gelatinous Blob. Maybe it came from outer space. Maybe had a single, deranged and evil mind. Roll a dB.
it escaped from some scientist's lab. Regardless, you can bet it 1 Mice 6 Bats
will be at least three times as big as any vehicle the character can 2 Cats 7 Insects
find - and it's growing! 3 Dogs 8 Fish
9 Mummy. Many ancient cultures mummified their dead, but 4 Birds 9 Spiders
the Egyptians were the avowed masters of the art. Possibly the 5 Rats 10 Frogs and Toads
creature has come back to avenge the desecration of his tomb. 17 Alien Fiend. Select this creature on Table 747: Aliens. This
10 Reanimated Corpse. Frankenstein's monster is the classic creature looks horrible and inspires terror in all who see it.
example of this horror. It might be one corpse brought back to full 18 Deceptively Beautiful Alien. Select this creature on Table
life, or pieces of many. 747: Aliens. Despite its weird appearance, this creature has an
11 Nasty Goblin. This mean-spirited little fiend from fairy tale unearthly beauty to it.
might live unseen in any home, though it generally prefers older 19 Giant Animal. Select this creature on Table 749: Unusual
homes that have character. It often plays little pranks, but can Pets. Weird science has turned this ordinary animal into a
become quite mean and vicious. This also includes things like the fearsome monster of immense proportions.
bogeyman, gremlins, evil fairies and terrible little men. 20 Reroll again on this table. Several of these creatures are
12 Skeletal Horror. Little remains of this creature but bones, a working together.
few bits of rotted or dried flesh and some motivation for coming
back from the grave.
\

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11
 749: Unusual Pets 93 749: Unusual Pets

749:
749B: Special Pet Abilities
Instructions: First, roll a d10. On a roll of 2 or less, the pet
has special ability "1-3" (personality), but no other abilities. On a
result of 3-6 the pet has 1d3 special abilities. On a roll of 7 or
greater, the pet's 1d3 special abilities are unknown to the charac­
Unusual Pets ter. The GM should roll and record these special attributes. For
ea?h_ _ ability, roll a d_20 once on Table 7498. Reroll all duplicated
ab1llt1es. The GM will need to determine how these abilities work
Use only if directed here by another table within the game.

If this table is being consulted, then at some point in his life, d20 749B: Special Abilities (roll a d20)
the character has obtained an unusual pet. These pets have
above average intelligence for an animal. Unless specified other­ 1-3 Pet exhibits a definite personality - roll three times on
wise, the pet its more common brethren in size and appearance. Table 312A: Personality Trait Types, re-rolling any re­
Most such pets will be unusually long-lived. sults of "50" or less.
4-6 Very Intelligent-better than average human sentience.
Instructions: Roll a d100 once for the type of pet on Table There is a 60% chance of it being able to "speak" a
749A below. Then go to Table 7498: Special Pet Abilities for the decipherable animal language, or human language if the
pet's powers or skills. animal could normally mimic human speech.
Roleplay: The pet is the character's constant companion 7-8 Pet is quick at learning new skills and commands, and
and would probably rather die than be separated from its master. takes one-third the normal time to teach. Knows more
To roleplay the pet, think of that special pet you may have once commands than similar animals.
had, the one that followed you everywhere. 9 Pet is unusually colored (go to Table 855: Colors).
10 Pet is remarkably fearless, and never panics. The petwill
attempt to defend its master from anything, unless the
749A: Special Pet Types (roll a dlOO) master commands otherwise.
11 Pet has camouflage ability, and tends to blend in with the
dlOO Pet dlOO Pet (continued ... ) background. This is a Rank 3 bonus to the animal's
01-15 Standard dog 77 Dolphin (or small whale) natural skills for the purposes of detection, sneaking, and
16-30 Standard cat 78 Big spider or insect surprise attacking.
31-37 Cute Rodent 79-80 Barnyard animal 12 Pet heals at three times the normal rate.
38-50 Horse 81-82 Tropical/talking bird 13 Pet can detect three times farther and more accurately
51-52 Lizard/reptile 83 Kangaroo/Wallaby than others of its race.
53-54 Raccoon 84-85 Wolf 14 Pet has unusual size. Roll a d6 for Hi/Lo. Hi = pet is
55-56 Snake 86-87 Wild cat (ocelot, bobcat, lynx) unusually large for its species (even gigantic). Lo= pet is
57-58 Ferret 88-90 Distinctive horse unusually small, a miniature animal.
59 Hawk 91 Exotic animal (like an elephant) 15 Pet's life energy is two times the standard for the race.
60 Tiger 92-93 Turtle The pet will take 2x the damage and take 2x as long for
61-62 Cougar 94-95 Songbird the "soul" to leave.
63-70 Big dog 96 Lion 16 Pet is a blessed with a lucky life. Pet will escape from
71 mongoose 97 otter death-dealing situations nine times before one finally
72 Owl 98 Extinct animal catches up with it.
73-75 Monkey 99 Dinosaur 17 Pet can increase its strength 1d10 times its normal value,
76 Camel 100 Prehistoric mammal once each day for 1d6 hours.
18 Pet's saliva is a deadly poison (potency equals 1d6 x pet's
Constitution) which can be spit, or bite injected.
19 Pet is more than unusual -it's weird. Roll a d6 on the
749C: Animal Transportation subtable below for details:
1 Pet has been altered. Portions of the animal have been
Instructions: Roll a d6, and on a result of "4-5," the replaced with bio-mechanical "bionic" parts. Roll a d4 to
standard animal is included. On a result of "6," a non-standard, but determine the number of artificial parts, then use table 857:
feasible, animal is included. What is "standard" will be relevant to Body Locations to find out which ones.
the character's particular culture. 2 Pet has 1d3 items from Table 858: Exotic Features. Adapt
to fit, but reroll results that cannot be made to work.
d20 749C: Transportation (roll a d20) 3 Pet is really an assumed guise for an alien being from Table
747:Aliens.
1-5 Riding animal only 16-17 Covered wagon 4 Pet is really an assumed guise for something horrible from
6 Little red wagon 18 Dogsled Table 748: Horrors.
7-9 Cart 19 Chariot S Pet has an ability from Table 860: Psychic Powers.
6 Pet is really weird! Roll twice more here. Reroll duplicates.
10-12 Carriage 20 Trolley (needs a track)
13-15 Buckboard wagon 20 Reroll 1d3 more times on this table. A duplicate roll
d�ubles the effectiveness of a duplicated feature. A pet
will not have more than four special abilities.

I
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II
750: Companions

750:
Companions
ldlO 750B: Why? (roll a dlO)
1 Character saves her life.
Use only if directed here by another table 2 They seek a similar goal (30% chance to be friendly rivals
in this regard- see Table 751G: Rivals).
Here is the hero's companion, her trusted right-hand man, 3 Their parents were Companions in adventure.
the faithful sidekick who has joined the character in adventure. The 4 They share the same enemy (create a Villain on Table 752:
Companion may be a bumbler, a whiner, a bit of comic relief, or a Villains).
serious hero with his own destiny to fulfil. Possibly the character 5 They happened to be in the same place and in trouble at the
may be merely the Companion's faithful sidekick? same time.
Instructions: To develop a picture of the character's Com­ 6 The Companion imagines the character to be a real hero
panion, questions must be answered. Who is the Companion? and wishes to learn from him.
Why has she joined up with the character? What are the Compan­ 7 The Companion's original intent was to steal from the
ion's feelings toward the character? What is the Companion's character.
predominant personality? Start with Table 750A and follow direc­ 8 The Companion feels a need to protect the character.
tions. Record information as you go. 9 Mysterious voices and feelings told the Companion to seek
out the character and join her.
Roleplay: The Companion is an NPC who can either be 10 GM ONLY: See Entry #750B/751 on Table 965: GM
controlled by the GM or by the player. She should not be just Specials.
"cannon fodder." Give the Companion personal goals that he can
work out during adventuring. It may be that once those goals are
accomplished the Companion parts company with the character to
seek his or her own ultimate destiny.
Table 750C: What kind of Person?
Instructions: Roll a d10 and match the result against the
750A: Who is the Companion? table below to learn the Companion's outlook on life. From Here:
Give the Companion a name, develop him as an NPC on Table
Instructions: Roll a d1 O and match the result against the 107: Parents & NPCs, and round out his background.
table 750A below to select the character's Companion. Select
Companion's Culture on Table 102and his Social Status on Table
103. From Here: go to Table 7508: Why a Companion? ldlO 750C: What? (roll a dlO)
Gender Note: If the gender of the Companion is not pre­ 1-3 Loyal Friend: Companion might lay down her life for the
selected, then roll a d6. A result of 1-4 is same sex as the character. character. Will support the character in all he does.
A result of 5-6 means the Companion is of the opposite sex. 4-5 Bumbling Buddy: A buffoon who tries to be a hero, and
inadvertently succeeds more often than he fails. Give him
ldlO 750A: Who? (roll a dlO) comical quirks. Intensely loyal to the character, but little help in
a fight. May have an inferiority complex.
1 A childhood friend. 6 Grim Ally: Doesn't talk much. Does what must be done
2 A Relative. Select on Table 1040: Other Relations.
to the best of her ability. Dislikes frivolity, especially in the face
3 An alien. Select on Table 747: Aliens. of danger. Quite sure of herself at all times.
4 Some other person. Select on Table 743: Others.
s A group member. Select on Table 744: Other Groups. 7 Gung-ho Joe: Enthusiasm is not his middle name, it's his
6 A kid. Roll a d6. Add the result to 6 to find kid's age. first. Always readyfor adventure, willing to leap into the fray and
7 Sibling (roll a d6 for Hi/Lo: Hi= older, Lo= younger). face unbeatable odds.
s A professional adventurer or hero. If the Companion is rela­ 8 Groaning Griper: She may follow the character to Hell
tively more powerful than the character, assume that the and back, but she doesn't have to like it and lets every-one know
character is his Companion. about it. May be a wise-cracking "smart mouth."
9 Former enemy or rival. Select on Table 751: Rivals.
10 GM ONLY: See Entry#750A on Table965:GM'sSpecials. 9 Good ol' Boy: A down-to-earth type who enjoys simple
pleasures like hot food, cold drinks, good company, tall tales,
and fast action. Loves a good knock-down fight.
Table 750B: Why a Companion? 10 Incurable Romantic: Imagines himself to always be
questing after some greater goal. Always attempts noble and
Instructions: Roll a d1 O and match the result against the ohivalrous deeds. Always quoting somebody, usually obscure
table below to select why the Companionship exists. From Here:
Go to Table 750G: What Kind of Person?

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11
751: Rivals

751: Table 751B: Why an Opponent?

Rivals Instructions: Roll a d10 and match the results against the
table below to select why the rivalry exists. From Here: Go to Table
751C:WhatFeellngs?

Use only if directed here by another table ldlO 751B: Why? (roll a dlO)
Not everyone encountered during life is going to be the 1 They love the same person.
character's pal. There are those who will covet what the character 2 They are sporting event rivals.
has, who are jealous of what the character is, and who seek the 3 Their parents were rivals.
4 Rival is jealous of the character's looks.
same goals that the character seeks. These people become com­
petitive rivals, unfriendly foes, or even deadly enemies. 5 An insu It was perceived by one or the other.
6 They seek the same goal.
Instructions: To gain a picture of the character's Rival, 7 Rival is jealous of the character's possessions.
questions must be answered. Who is the Rival? Why is she an 8 Always trying to outdo each other in everything.
opponent? What are the Rival's feelings toward the character? 9 Their distant ancestor's were rivals.
What does the Rival seek to accomplish? Start with Table 751A 10 GM ONLY: See Entry #750B/751 on Table 965: GM Spe­
and follow directions. Record information as you go. cials.
Roleplay: The Rival is essentially a plot element for the GM
to use, an opportunity to create a continuing bad guy to foil the
character's activities. To develop the character's attitudes toward Table 751C: What Feelings?
this foe, think about how you felt when you discovered someone
didn't like you, especially if you liked that person in return. Instructions: Roll a d1O and match the result against the
table below to learn the Rival's level of antagonism towards the
Optional Rule: Each time the character has an encounter character. If you wish, roll a dB for the character's feelings towards
with the rival that ends with the Rival's own plans being thwarted, the rival. Optional: From Here: If desired, give the Rival a name,
roll a d1O on Table 751 C. If the result is the same as or higher than and develop her as an N PC on Table 107: Parents & NPCs. Set her
the Rival's current level of feelings, that level increases by one. up as a foil to the character's plans.
Thus a jealous relationship would become an intense hatred.

751A: Who is the Rival? ldlO 751C: What? (roll a dlO)

1-3 Friendly: Rival and character can still be friends. Rival
Instructions: Roll a d1O and match against the table below enjoys competing against the character. Rival may even re­
to select who is the character's rival. The Rival is usually of the main a good friend.
same Social Status as the character. Roll a d6. On a result of 1-4,
the Social Status is the same. On result of 5-6, find the Rival's 4-5 Jealous: Rival dislikes the character, and takes secret
Social Status on Table 103: Social Status. From Here: Go to Table pleasure in embarrassing, thwarting or beating him. Physical
751B: Why an Opponent? injury is usually not intended, but if it happens, it happens. Rival
may be appear to be a friend or ally.
Gender Note: If gender of the rival is not predetermined,
then roll a d6. If the result is 1-4 the Rival is the same sex as the 6-7 Intense: Rival hates the character, and goes out of his
character. If the result is 5-6, the Rival is of the opposite sex. way to foil him. Secretly hopes for the chance to injure the
character in some way (physically, emotionally, financially,
socially, etc.)
ldlO 751A: Who? (roll a dlO) 8 Fierce: Rival hates character bitterly. This is an unheal­
1 A former lover (if character is a child, reroll). able grudge. This rivalry often clouds judgement and could lead
2 A relative. Select on Table 104D:Other Relations. to no-holds-barred conflict. The rival maximizes all opportun­
3 A villain. Select on Table 752: Villains.
ities to thwart the character, hoping to cause injury in so doing.
4 Some other person. Select on Table 743: Others. 9 Deadly: This is a potentially fatal hatred. Severely In­
5 A former friend. juring the character in any way is the rival's goal. He plots and
6 An enemy of the family. plans the character's downfall as a part of his own path to
7 A sibling (roll a d6 for Hi-Lo: Hi= older, Lo= younger). success. Given the chance, the rival will kill the character.
8 A professional rival, with the same occupation.
9 A friend (rivalry other than '1riendly" is kept secret).
10 Obsessive: The rival's entire life focuses on the char­
10 Re roll. The resulting person has risen to become a station acter and his ultimate destruction. No risk to self or others is too
where he or she wields real physical, political, social or great in the rival's quest to utterly destroy the character. In this
religious power. competition, there can be only one survivor. See Obsession
under Table 6428: Exotic Personality Traits:Mental Afflictions.

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11
752: Villains 96

752:
Villains
Use only if directed here by another table

Every hero needs a nemesis or maybe even two! Every

campaign needs an evil mover and shaker, one whose sheer
vileness requires the actions of men and women, good and true to
overcome. Come on! These are more than just petty rivals. Let's
make us some bad guys!
Instructions: To create a villain, answer these questions ld10752C: What Alignment?* (roll a dlO)
byfollowing directions or rolling the indicated die for each subtable For alignment details, see Table 312: Alignment & Attitude.
that follows. Record information as you go:

I
752A: Who is the Villain? 7528: What are the Villain's goals? 1-6 Total Darkside. Roll a d6 to select attitude.
752G: What is the Villain's Alignment? 7520: What is the Villain's 1-2 Depraved
scope of operation? 752E: What are the Villain's nasty habits? 3-4 Deviant
Finally, go to Table 107: Parents & NPCsand follow directions 5-6 Diabolical
to give the Villain more personality.

I
7-8 Neutral (but still evil). Roll a d6 to select attitude
Gender Note: If the gender of the Villain is not predeter­ 1 Self-centered 4 Anarchic
mined, then roll Hi/Lo. Hi= male. Lo= female. 2 Apathetic 5 Egalitarian
3 Materialistic 6 Conformist
Roleplay: Villains are not petty criminals. They are powerful
people who seek more of the same. They have lofty, dangerous, 9-10 Mostly Darkside with tendencies towards Neutral. Select
even insane goals. They work in extremes. They do not just relevant attitudes above.
murder someone, they annihilate towns and cities. They do not rob
banks, they bankrupt entire governments. They do not extort
money from shopkeepers, they dominate cites. And worst of all, ld10752D: Operations? (roll a dlO)
they usually think that they are doing the world a favor!
1-4 Villain is a "local" evil-doer, and works close to home.
5-7 Villain is a national threat._He hasn't expanded his crime
ldl0752A: Who? (roll a dlO) to other countries - yet.
8-9 Villain is a world class problem, whether the world knows
1-6 Some other person. Select on Table 743: Others. it or not.
7 A childhood friend. 10 Villain plans on either solar system or galaxy or (gasp}
8 A relative. Select on Table 1040: Other Relations. universe domination - adjust this to the power level of
9 A sibling (roll a d6 for Hi/Lo: Hi = older, Lo= younger). your game.
10 A rival. Select details on Table 751: Rivals.

ld10752E: Nasty Habits? (roll a dlO)

dl0 752B: What Goals? (roll a dlO)
1 Villain tortures his victims for his own pleasure.
1 Obtain immeasurable wealth. 2 Villain has a trait selected from Table 642: Exotic Person­
2 Achieve absolute knowledge. ality Traits with an obsessive trait strength.
3 Obtain absolute power. 3 Villain destroys all who cross him or who do not join him.
4 Obtain some item from Table 853: Gifts & Legacies. 4 Villain is noted for repeatedly committing a crime. Select it
5 Expand area of domination. on Table 862: Crimes.
6 Destroy everything. 5 Villain has 1 d3 traits selected from Table 642: Exotic
7 Humiliate/Punish others for imagined wrongs Personality Traits.
8 Right some imagined wrong. 6 Villain only pretends to be human. Select its real form on
9 Convert others to own point of view. Roll a d4. Table 748: Horrors.
1 Religious 7 Villain sacrifices captured foes to appease some dark and
2 Philosophical From Here: horrible god.
3 Legal Go to 752C 8 Villain forces others to listen to her rantings, ravings or tales
4 Scientific , of woe - often revealing her secrets and evil plans.

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9 Villain is certifiably insane, and does anything he pleases.
10 Roll twice more on this table and combine the results. 10 Roll two more times on this table.

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II
 853: Gifts & Legacies

853:
Gifts & Legacies
Use only if directed here by another table artifacts, heirlooms or pieces of mysterious junk. They can be
shrouded in legend or merely pieces of trash that are hard to lose.
These gift ideas are only catalysts, the GM must bear the
The character will sometimes be given a gift at birth or later
weight of deciding why a gift is important. Gifts should be designed
in life. These gifts are sometimes given by someone of mysterious in such a way that they serve as a motivation for a great quest or
aspect (the ol' "mysterious stranger") or they might be a gift or at least an interesting adventure.
inheritance from a relative, a friend, a mentor or a benefactor. The
- exact nature of these items should be determined by the GM. They Instructions: Roll a d20 and match the result against the
may be disguised technological (even if not rolled as such), table below to determine the nature of that gift.

d20 853: Gifts and Legacies (roll a d20) d20 853: Gifts & Legacies (continued ... )
1 A weapon. Make a d10 roll on the subtable below to deter­ 14 A deed to a property. Make a d20 roll on the subtable below
mine the kind of weapon. to determine what the deed is to.
1 An ornate dagger. 1 An apartment building 10 An abandoned mine
2 An ornate sword. 2 An ancient fortress 11 An ancient, palatial house
3 An automatic assault rifle. 3 A country manor 12 Swampland
4 A pearl-handled revolver pistol. 4 A tract of jungle 13 An office building
5 A laser pistol (any form of "blaster" pistol). 5 An old restaurant 14 An old military base
6 A laser rifle (any form of "blaster'' rifle). 6 A factory 15 A remote island
7 A civil war vintage cannon 7 An amusement park 16 A mysterious forest
9 A primitive tribal weapon (spear, ax, dagger, etc.) 8 Ancient ruins 17 An old temple/church
10 An archaic weapon (something from another time or 9 An old farm 18 An inn (or hotel)
place, like a muzzle-loading musket, a crossbow, a 19-20 The deeded property is in a far country. Reroll.
spear, a flint hand ax, etc.) 15 A musical instrument.
2 The guardianship of a young ward. This is an NPC. Create 16 A piece of clothing. Roll a d20 on the subtable below.
this person as if it were. a companion to the character. See 1 A hat 9 Boots
Table 750: Companions. 2 Shoes 10 A space suit helmet
3 An Unusual Pet. Select pet on Table 749: Unusual Pets. The 3 A belt 11 A complete space suit
pet survives at least until the character begins adventuring. 4 A cape 12 An unusual coat
4 A piece of jewelry. Make a d10 roll on the subtable below to 5 A tunic 13 A woman's dress
determine the kind of jewelry. 6 Pants 14 Priestly garb
1 Amulet. 7 Tore (neck ring). 7 A one piece jumpsuit 15 A military uniform
2 Necklace. 8 Pin or brooch. 8 Deep sea diving gear 16 Ultra-cold weather gear
3 Earrings. 9 Large crown. 17-20 Roll 1d4 times on this table. The pieces are part of a
4 Tiara (small crown). 10 Medal. related set, possibly an unusual costume.
5 Ring. 17 A file of papers. Make a d10 roll on the following subtable to
6 Roll again on this subtable, but the jewelry is extreme- determine what the pouch contains.
ly valuable, more so than its looks reveal. 1 An ancient ancestor's letter to his/her descendants.
5 A nifty thing selected from Table 8548: Wondrous Devices. 2 A map.
6 A piece of ancient sculpture. GM Only: see entry #853 on 3 An undelivered letter.
Table 965: GM's Specials. 4 Diagrams and plans for a mysterious invention.
7 Akey. 5 A chemical formula for a popular soft drink.
8 A locked or sealed book. 6 A wild story of adventure.
9 A sealed cannister with a small monster floating in it. The 7 A last will & testament.
creature seems to be alive. 8 A treasure map!
10 A sealed bottle (determine contents). 9 The character's true (and colorful) family history.
11 A care-worn, but functional old space suit. 10 Roll for 1d2+1 items. Reroll results of 10.
12 An interesting and unique vehicle. Select details on Table 18 A sealed trunk. There is a 60% chance that it contains 1d3+1
864: Vehicles. There is a 35% chance that the vehicle is a additional items from this table.
"vintage" vehicle of an earlier time. 19 A suit of medieval armor, that actually fits the character!
13 A locked or sealed box that says "Do not open until __," 20 ,Roll again. The resulting item definitely has at least one
which is, of course, the current time in the adventure game. special or magical function and some great significance to
the character's destiny and the over-all scheme of things.

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11
854: Perks & Stuff 98 854: Perks & Stuff

854: 854B: Wondrous Devices

Use only if directed here by another table
Wondrous Devices are those devices and inventions whose

Perks & Stuff level of technology, sophistication or technical feasibility is beyond

that commonly available. These things are almost magic. Assume
that the Wondrous Device is a radical improvement or variation on
any existing technology.
Use only if directed here by another table
Instructions: Roll a d20 on the following table.
Perks are the nifty things often associated with a position, Roleplay: The device is very much beyond anything the
a job, or even wealth. They make life easier, more fun, and make character has ever seen. The character may be awed or even
the character look good in the eyes of others. scared by the device. Others may be less so, and seek to relieve
Instructions: Roll a d20 on the following table. The result the character of the item.
is the "reward" the character gets for being that character.

d20 854A: Perks (roll a d20) d20 854B: Wondrous Devices (roll a d20)
1 High quality wardrobe. Individual outfits are either 1 Time machine. It moves through time, it moves through
flashy or immaculatelytailored and cost more than the average space, going anywhen, traveling anyplace.
annual clothing budget of a family at the Comfortable level. 2 Resurrection machine. It brings 'em back, but the GM
2 Military Commission. Position is given outside the should decide the duration and quality of life for the resurrected.
normal channels. If the character already has officer rank, 3 Portable super-computer. Loaded with memory and
increase rank by two levels. designed to interface with all known computer types.
3 Toys. Character has access to 1d4+4 of the latest 4 Armored military vehicle. The latest heavy duty battle
technological gadgets (though not quite Wondrous devices). type. On a d4 roll of 4, the character actually owns it.
4 Body guards. 2d4 of them. 5 Detection device. Sees heat, motion, radiation, metal,
5 Animal companion. Select on Table 749:Unusual Pets. etc. Character may choose which one, but only one at a time.
6 Special training. Maybe a skill from Table863:Unusual 6 Bio-regeneration equipment. This is the ability to re­
Skills or it may be a skill applicable to the game world -follow pair or replace damaged body parts by growing new ones.
Table 863's rank rules. 7 Communicator. Palm-sized device that can use ANY
7 Celebrity. Character is known where ever she goes and type of wave and any channel - satellite, telephone, or TV.
is often accorded preferred service treatment. 8 Personal jet-pack. Technically relevant to your game.
8 Multi-passport. Can travel anywhere without problems. 9 1 d4+1 Gadgets. Small things a spy would use.
9 Power. Character has a lot of positional power. Charac- 10 Recording device. Incredibly small and accurate, with a
ter commands 1d6 x 1d20 followers, who DO listen to her. good range. This includes microphones, bugs, and cameras.
10 Exclusive club membership. 11 Lifelike bionics. Bionic replacement blends very well
11 Living quarters. Only the best! All furnishings are with a living body-about 1O years beyond current technology.
museum quality and the place is rent free. 12 Translator. This incredible device translates languages
12 Double Identity. For work or kicks, the character leads into the character's native tongue - an adustable setting.
two lives. 13 Lie detector. This tiny item allows the character to accu-
13 Preferred opinion. Whether the character knows any- rately and scientifically read another's emotional level.
thing or not. 14 Anti-detection device. Foils TV monitors, radar, speed
14 Personal vehicle given to character. Use Table 864: guns, etc., but only one at a time.
Vehicles and add 5 to the die rollson Table 864B-G. 15 Energy weapon. A powerful hand-held device that may
15 Connections. Many powerful and influential friends be more deadly to both user and target than similar devices.
16 Access. Though not a celebrity, the character still has 16 Battle-suit. A cutting edge suit tailored to reflect your
preferred privileges, only in different and possibly more clan­ game's technology. Provides food, protection, and weapons..
destine circles 17 Sentient computer. May be almost anything: a ship's
17 Eccentric. Character feels he can afford to act out a computer, a robotic construct, or a even a desktop computer.
stereotype roll associated with his station in life. 18 Unknown object. GM ONLV: see entry #854 on Table
18 Vehicle use. Character has unlimited use of a vehicle not 965: GM's Specials.
normally accessible by other folks (example: Air Force 1) 19 Alien artifact. This could be an exotic magical item or a
19 Roll twice more on this table. alien object of unknown powers. Have your GM select or create
20 Advanced Techno-Toy. Select on Table 8548: Won- several powers for this object.

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drous Devices. 20' Roll twice more on this table and combine the results.

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11
855: Colors 99 857: Body Locations

855: 856:
Colors Birthmarks
Use only if directed here by another table Use only if directed here by another table

This table is used when an exotic color is required for a phys­ If a character is determined to have an unusual birthmark (or
ical attribute or object. Colors are assumed to be rich, bright and tattoo!), that birthmark will generally be brown or red (on humans,
saturated (though they could be muted too). aliens are probably different), unless another color is indicated.
Instructions: Roll a d20 to determine the color. Instructions: Roll a d20 on the table below to determine the
type of unusual birthmark possessed by the character. Then roll a
d1 O. If the d10 result is a 10, then the birthmark is a color other than
d20 855: Color (roll a d20) normal. Select thecoloron Tab/e855:Colors. In addition, the body
location of the birthmark must be determined on Table 857: Body
1 Red (also Crimson, Scarlet or Blood red) Locations.
2 Red Orange (Sunset orange)
3 Orange
4 Yellow Orange 856: Birth Marks (roll a d20)
5 Yellow ld20 ld20 (continued ...)
6 Yellow-Green (Citrine)
7 Green (also Emerald) 1 Dragon 11 Monster (you pick one)
8 Blue-Green (also Aquamarine, Turquoise) 2 Skull 12 Claw
9 Blue 3 Bat 13 Eagle (or hawk)
10 Blue-Violet (also Royal blue) 4 Sword 14 Star
11 Violet (also Purple, Lavender) 5 Hand 15 Animal (you pick one)
12 Red Violet (also Magenta, Hot pink, Fuchsia) 6 Fist 16 Fish
13 Pink 7 Cross 17 Geometric pattern
14 White (Snow white, Off white, Ivory) 8 Spider Web 18 Alchemical symbol
15 Black (Ebony, True-black) 9 Spider 19 A Word
16 Gray 10 Heart 20 Weird (see note below)
17 Maroon (Reddish or Purplish brown)
18 Reroll the color. The color has a metallic sheen.
19 Reroll the color. The color has a pearlescent look. Weird Birthmark: Roll again on this table to determine what
20 Reroll the color, rerolling results over 19. Then roll a d6 for the birthmark looks like. The birthmark then has a unique aspect,
Hi/Lo. If the result is Hi, the color is mixed with white to like glowing or looking like the real thing, not just a mark on the skin.
produce a pastel tint. If the result is Lo, the color is mixed Possibly it is a focal point for a psionic power or special talent that
with black to produce a dark shade. the character may also possess.

a humanoid body. For aliens, monsters, or animals, create a hit die

857:
table similar to the one found here for each type of creature.
Instructions: Roll a d20 to determine body location.

857: Body Location (roll a d20)

Body Locations d20
1
Location
Right Foot
d20
10-13
Location (continued ... )
Chest
2 Left Foot 14 Right Ar
3 Right Leg 15 Left Arm
4 Left Leg 16 Right Hand
Use only if directed here by another table 5-6 Abdomen 17 Left Hand
7\8 Buttocks 18 Head

u
This table is used to determine the body locations of physical 9 Back 19-20 Face
features, such as birthmarks, tattoos, wounds, afflictions, etc. on

11 From He.re - Return to the Table that sent you here •.•
858: Exotic Features

858:
Exotic Features
Use only if directed here by another table

Many game systems provide characters with special

powers, talents and liabilities. Here are a few more to spice things
up. Where do they come from? Well, you're a bright person, come
up with something that fits the character's background.
Instructions: Roll a d20 and match the result against the
table below to select the talent, mutation or modification.
Roleplay: Unusual or uncommon appearances and abilities
set characters apart from the rest of humanity. While these
differences may not be offensive or harmful, characters who are
"different" may be subject to behind-the-back whispers, strange
looks and curiosity seekers throughout life.

d.20 858: Exotic Features (roll ld.20) d.20 858: Exotic Features (continued ... )
1 Subtract/Add 1d4 points from an attribute. Roll for Hi/Lo. 8 Roll a d4 to select one of the special abilities listed below.
Hi= Add, Lo =Subtract.Then roll a d1O on the subtable below 1 Tough skin. Bonus of 2 versus physical attacks or shifts
to select the affected attribute. the defensive table 1 category in favor of the character.
1 Strength 6 Charisma 2 Photographic memory. Treat as high bonus or low
2 Intelligence 7 Wisdom difficulty.
3 Luck 8 Appearance 3 Temperature insensitive. Not affected by extremes of
4 Dexterity 9 Self-discipline or Power heat or cold.
5 Constitution 10 Roll two more times on this table. 4 Reinforced Skeleton. Some bones in the body have
2 Character has unusual size. Roll for Hi/Lo. Hi= d6 x 10% been reinforced with an internally compatible metal.
Take half physical damage from crushing attacks.Select
larger than species norms. Subtract 1 from Dexterity, add 1 to
Strength. Lo=d6 x 1 0% smaller than species norms. Subtract 1 the bones by making 3 rolls on Table 857: Body Loca­
tions.
from Strength, add 1 to Dexterity.
Character heals three times as fast as a normal being. 9 Character is naturally lucky. Roll 1d3 and multiply the result
3 by 5 to obtain the character's Luck percentage. If the result of a
4 Dame Fortune has given the 20th century character the die roll for any skill, combat or saving roll is within this percentage
marks of a 18th century pirate. Find out what by rolling a d1O on of the amount needed, the roll is successful. Nevertheless, an
the subtable below: absolute low roll always fails.
1-2 Eye patch. One eye is badly damaged. Hi/Lo for UR. 10 Character has a natural immunity to psychic powers or
3-4 Peg-leg. One leg is gone below the knee.Hi/Lo for UR. mental magic. Roll a d8 and multiply the result by 5. The result is
5-6 Hook. One hand has been sliced off. HI/LO for UR. the percentage chance that the character will be immune to the
7-8 "Pirate" voice. Larynx damage causes inflected speech. effects of any mind based power used against him.
9-10 Roll twice more on this subtable, reroll duplicates.
5 Character is Bad Luck and causes friends to fumble when 11 Character is blessed/cursed with features that do not
within 20 feet of them. Roll a d6 to find his Bad Luck rating. Each represent his actual age. Roll Hi/Lo to see how old people think
the character to be.

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time a friend misses a skill use roll, roll a d10. If the result is less
than or equal to the Bad Luck rating, the friend has a serious Hi= Baby face- the character's face is half his real age.
accident, such as wounding himself or a friend, or pouring a soft Lo = Ancient face - the character's face is twice his real
drink into a computer keyboard. age.
6 Character is Good Luck.His presence improves all the skill 12 Character is unaffected by one kind of poison. Choose the
rolls of his companions by 1 rank or(+1 bonus to non-skill rolls) type by rolling a d4 on the table below:
when within 20 feet of them. 1 Respiratory-constricts chest muscles-can't breathe.
7 A strange mutation enables the character to radically alter 2 Circulatory -shuts down the heart.
his appearance to resemble other members of his own race or 3 Nerve - kills the brain and all neural connections.
ti Reduction - turns internal organs into soup.

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similar races and even impersonate members of the opposite
sex at Rank 6 ability. Continued ... �

Table 858 continues on the next page ...

11
858: Exotic Features 101 858: Exotic Features

d20 858: Exotic Features (continued ... ) d20 858: Exotic Features (continued ... )
13 The character's appearance can only be defined as exotic. 15 Character is born with a natural talent. Select the talent on
Roll a d1O on the subtable below to determine the exact nature Table 863: Unusual Skills. He has the selected skill at Rank 5
of the character's distinctive appearance. proficiency.
1 Character is an albino, with pale almost white skin and 16 Character has a natural aptitude for learning. Whenever a
hair, and pink eyes. Subtract 1d3 points of damage per new skill is learned, the character always learns it at one Rank
hour of unprotected exposure to strong sunlight. Add higher.
1d3 points to Charisma or Comeliness.
2 Character is androgynous, with little difficulty, he or she 17 Character acquires an unusual tattoo. Select the tattoo on
could pass for an attractive member of either sex. Table 856: Birthmarks, its primary location on Table 857: Body
3 Character is hunchbacked. Locations, and its predominant color on Table 855: Colors. Roll
4 Character is unusually hirsute. Hair grows nearly every­ a d10. On a result of 9-10, this tattoo is very large, covering 2d20
where. Character shaves regularly just to look human. + 50% of the character's body.
5 Character's hair is naturally an exotic color. Select this 18 The material that makes up the character's fingernails and
color on Table 855: Colors. hair is incredibly hard, similar to aluminum or tin. This could make
6 Character's skin has a waxy look and a deathly pallor. them effective daggers or lock-picks, and make the hair a
7 Character's skin is unusually dark for someone of her dangerous garrote.
background.
8 Character's skin is unusually light for someone of her 19 The character is double-jointed. Roll a d8 and apply it to
background. the table below:
9 Character's skin is unusually thin and fragile. Add+1 to 1 Head -spins 180 degrees. +1 to perception skills.
any damage received in combat. 2 Neck-folds way forward or back.+1 to disguise skills.
10 Character's skin is unusually thick and gnarly, almost 3 Shoulders - unrestricted movement. +1 to fighting
like tree bark. Subtract 1 from any damage received in skills.
combat. 4 Elbows -bend both ways. +1 to "picking" skills.
11 Character's teeth are sharp and fang-like. 5 Waist -can bend body in half. + 1 to defense/dodging
12 One part of the character's body is unusually large skills.
(about 50% larger proportionately than it should be). 6 Knees - bend both ways. +1 to "leg" skills (dance,
Select the body part on Table 857: Body Locations. stalking).
13 The iris portion of the character's eyes is an exotic color. 7 Backbone/Spine - omni-directional. +1 to "sports"
Select the color on Table 855: Colors. skills.
14 Character's face is frightening to look upon. 8 Roll twice more on this table, using further "S's," but re-
15 Character has naturally pointed ears. rolling any other duplicate rolls.
16 Character's skin is an exotic "unnatural" color. Select the 20 Character has hemisphericallyindependent brain activity,
color on Table 855: Colors. and can perform two tasks at the same time, provided the tasks
17 When the character expresses any extreme emotion, are compatible.
whorls, swirls and other patterns appear on his skin.
18 The character's fingers and toes are naturally webbed.
19 Select 1d3 appearance features on Table 861:
Appearances. Each of these becomes an extreme
example of that type of appearance.
20 Roll twice more on this subtable.
14 Character gains a unique talent, something that she can
quietly use to hers or others' benefit when the need arises. Roll
a d6 to select this unique talent on the subtable below.
1 Blind Trust. Other beings want to trust the character as
if he were their best friend.
2 Sense Evil. The character can detect evil in a thing,
place or person. Evil beings can attempt to shield this
fact from the character.
3 Insight. The character can question the wisdom of an
action (i.e., ask the GM). Base chance equals d4 times
1O. Answers should always be vague and allow for
misinterpretation.
4 Direction Bump. Character knows which direction is
north, up or down, the center of the galaxy, etc.
5 Sense Psychic Activity. Character can detect current
or recent psychic activity in a person, place or thing.
6 Encourage Others. This talent encourages others to
perform 1d3 Ranks above their normal skill, but tempo­
rarily restricts the character's own skills by minus 2
ranks.

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859: Serious Wounds 102 859: Serious Wounds

859:
Roleplay: These injuries are physical reminders of some­
thing in the character's past-a war wound, the byproduct of tor­
ture, the end-result of a mugging. Along with the physical scars,
there may be mental and emotional scars too. Imagine how the
character will react if once again confronted with the person,
creature or situation that caused the injury.

Serious Wounds Also imagine how others might react to the character's injury.
ls she treated as being handicapped, is she pitied, or possibly now
known as "Claw" or "Scar-face?"

Footnotes
Use only if directed here by another table
CD Roll a d100. On a result of 1-50 add 1 point to Charisma attribute.On
More than just a skinned knee, a broken arm or a clean a result of 51-00, subtract 1 point from Charisma attribute.
® Subtract 1 point from Dexterity attribute.
knife cut - these are injuries that leave lasting physical effects, @ Subtract 1 point from Appearance attribute.
visibly scarring, reducing physical attributes, or permanently © Reduce all skills requiring manual dexterity by 1 Rank.
removing a body part. The injuries are not fatal, but they affect the @ Movement speed is half normal, unless an artificial limb is attached.
character for the rest of her days. Roll a d100 to find percentage of speed regained with artificial limb.
Instructions: Roll a d20 and match the result against the @ Subtract 1 point from Strength attribute.
<'lJ Without painkillers, the character must Make an Intelligence Check
table below to select the injury that has occurred. Unique affects (usually a d20 roll less than or equal to Intelligence attribute) to
for the wound are included with the description. More common perform any action requiring concentration.
symptoms and effects are indicated by the footnotes in paren­ ® Movement speed is 3/4 of normal speed.
theses following the table entry. If more than one footnote follows, @ Subtract 1 point from Constitution attribute.
apply them all.

d20 859: Serious Wounds (roll a d20) d20 859: Serious Wounds (continued ... )
1 Impressive facial scar. CD 10 A body part ls permanentlyseveredfromthebody. Roll
Impressive body scars. Use Table 857: Body Locations
a d6 on the table below to determine which body part is affected.
2
1 Hand. Roll Hi/Lo. Hi is left, Lo is right. @ ©
to locate the most impressive scar. 2 Arm. Roll Hi/Lo. Hi is left, Lo is right. @ ©
3 Eye put out. Roll Hi/Lo. Hi is left eye. Lo is right eye. Depth 3 Foot. Roll Hi/Lo. Hi is left, Lo is right. @@
perception is gone, reduce all combat and visual perception skills 4 Leg. Roll Hi/Lo. Hi is left, Lo is right. @@
by one Rank. @ 5 Thumb. Roll Hi/Lo. Hi is left, Lo is right hand. It is
impossible to grip a weapon with that hand.
4 Lose 1 d4 teeth.
6 1d3 fingers. Roll Hi-Lo. Hi is left, Lo is right hand. If more
5 Ear is torn or cut off. Roll Hi/Lo. Hi= left ear. Lo= right than two are lost, it is impossible to grip a weapon.
ear. Roll a d1o. If the result is 7-10, a permanent hearing loss 11 Injury heals badly causing loss of attribute points (see
occurs, in which case, reduce all listening skills by two Ranks.@ footnotes).@ @
6 Disfigurement. The injury causes terrible scars and/or
12 Liver damage. Constitution halved for protecting against
rearranges the character's face in a manner which is unpleasant poison damage. Alcohol becomes a poison. ®
to look upon. Reduce Appearance and Charisma attribute by
1d10 each. 13 Lung damage causes racking cough and pain after phys-
ical exertion (running, fighting, climbing).®®
7 Head Injury causes brain damage. Roll a d8 on the
subtable below to determine the effects of the injury. 14 Stomach Injury. Causes recurrent nausea, particularly in
1 Reduce Intelligence attribute by 1d3 points. stress situations, usually lasts 1d20 minutes (Subtract 1d10
2 All skills drop one Rank. Ranks of ability from skills during nausea). ®
3 Character develops a Mental Affliction. Select the afflic­ 15 Kidney damage. Character needs three to four times the
tion on Table 6428: Mental Afflictions.
amount of water normally needed, otherwise body poisons build
4 The character develops an Exotic Personality Feature. up, causing 1d6 points of damage daily. ®
Select the affliction on Table 642: Exotic Personality
Traits. 16 Genital Injury. Character loses all sex drive.
5 Reduce Dexterity attribute by 1d3 points. 17 Throat injury. Roll a d10for degree of voice loss, 10being
6 Increase one skill by 1d8 Ranks. All other skills drop by the worst, unable to speak at all.
1d6 Ranks.
7-8 Roll 1d3+1 more times on this subtable. Do not reroll 18 Back Injury. Reduce Strength by 1d6 points.
duplicates-add the effects together. 19 Bionic Replacement. Reroll on this table, the damaged
8 Injury causes constant pain. Reroll type. @@® part is replaced by an experimental bionic part that seems to defy
the capabilities of known science.
9 Knee Injury causes slowness and constant limp. After

n
strenuous physical exertion (running, fighting, climbing), knee 20 ' Multiple injuries occurred. Roll 1d2+1 times. Duplicate
causes pain.®@ rolls are discarded and not rerolled. Reroll results over 19.

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11
860: Psychic Powers 103 860: Psychic Powers

860:
Using Pschic Abilities: If the game system being used
has rules for psychic (sometimes called "psionic") power, use the
power or powers that most closely match those selected from the
table below. Otherwise, use the guidelines that follow.
Each power is a separate skill. Psychic powers can be improv­
ed like other skills. Unless another table states otherwise, use of
psionic abilities begin at a Rank 1 skill.
Psychic Powers To use a psychic power in a simple manner, a character must
expend Strength attribute points. The cost of each power is given
in brackets (relative to a 3-18 Strength range). Difficult feats burn
I Use only if directed here by another table I off more Strength than shown here (GM's discretion).
Expended Strength is regained at the rate of 1/4 of the char­
acter's total points per 6 hours of rest (sleep or bed rest). Active
Psychic powers allow the character to manipulate the characters cannot regain Strength lost through psionic endeavors.
world through sheer mind power. Traditionally"common" psychic If psychic power usage reduces a character to 0 (zero) Strength,
powers are represented here (the GM may have to rule whether the character collapses into unconsciousness for 2d8 hours.
or not these powers are allowed in his or her campaign).
Roleplay: Throughout the century, psychic powers have
Instructions: Roll a d20 and match the result against the been considered weird, even evil, particularly to the general popu­
table below to select a power (or powers). Record relevant infor­ lace. How will the character deal with his new powers? Will the
mation on the worksheet and return to the table that sent you here. character try to hide them or flaunt them openly and fearlessly.

d20 860: Psychic Power (roll a d20) d20 860: Psychic Power (continued ...)
1 Psychic Bolt: [15 minus Rank] The ability to summon 8 Persuasion: [15 minus Rank] Mass Hypnosis that may
and shape energy to shatter, burn or melt non-living matter. be used against one additional target for each Rank o! Per­
Each Rank of skill adds 1d6 to the character's possible damage. suasion skill possessed by the character. At Rank 6, the char­
acter gains Mind Control at Rank 1 skill.
2 Psychometry: [11 minus Rank] The ability to learn the
past history of an object or person by touching it. 9 Telekinesis: [11 minus Rank. Add one point for each 20
3 Clairvoyance I: [11 minus Rank) To see or sense things
lbs of object weight over 10 lbs) Allows character to move
inanimate objects by force of thought, even making them fly.
occurring at a distance not normally possible with normal
senses. Character gets a fuzzy view of what is occurring - 10 Suspended Animation: [8 minus Rank + # days sus­
sound may be jumbled. Character may attempt to focus the pended) Character enters a sleep-like state and exists without
power, but more often than not, visions are random (at the dis­ food, water, air, or heat for up to Rank+1d8 days.
cretion of the GM). Upon attaining Rank 6, the character may 11 Teleportation: [16 minus Rank] Allows the character to
use Clairvoyance II at Rank 1 ability. move between two places without actually crossing the distance
4 Clairvoyance II: [13 minus Rank] Like Clairvoy-ance I, that separates them. Rank increases distance.
except that character may select what is wished to be seen and 12 Mind Block: [14 minus Rank] Character can attempt to
receives clear sensory impressions from wherever the point of shield against intruding or offensive psychic abilities. A mimimum
visual reference is placed. Upon attaining Rank 6, the character rank is needed to block certain powers. Rank 1 blocks ESP.
may use Clairvoyance Ill at Rank 1 ability.
Rank 2 blocks Hypnosis. Rank 3 blocks projected thoughts.
s Clairvoyance Ill (Astral Projection): [17 minus Rank] Rank 5 blocks mental probes. Rank 7 blocks Mind Blast. Rank
Similar to Clairvoyance II, but character is able to create an 9 blocks Mind Control.
impression that he is physically in that area (creating an astral 13-14 ESP: [11 minus Rank] Sense the surface thoughts of
image) and is able to change the point of view, as if he was walk­
other minds. Detect the presence of others.
ing around the place being viewed.
15 Telepathy: [13 minus Rank] Rank 1 = ESP. Rank 3 =
6 Psychic Healing: This is a healing ability that trades
Project thoughts into other minds. Rank 5 = Probe into other's
Strength points for lost hit points at the rate of 2 Strength points
minds. At Rank 7 may use Mind Blast at Rank 1.
for each 1 point of damage. It will also cure a minor illness at the
cost of 1d6 Strength, or a life-threatening disease at the cost of 16 Mind Blast: [11 minus Rank, plus 1d6] Using mental
3d6 Strength points. The character may use his Rank with the power only, character can do physical damage to a foe. Dam­
skill as if it were extra Strength points. Thus a Rank 3 Psychic age equals 1d4+ Rank.
Healer could Heal an additional 2 damage points (1 1/2 rounded 17 Body Control: [11 minus Rank, plus the number of points
up), at no additonal Strength cost. It has a minimum cost of 2
Strength per use. added to attribute) With this power, the character can tem­
porarily increase any attribute by 1 d4 points.
7 Hypnosis: [11 minus Rank) Places victim in a sleep-like
18 Mind Control: [15 minus Rank] This is the ability to take
trance, open to suggestions from the hypnotist (within reason).
At Rank 6 skill, the character also gains Persuasion at Rank 1 over the mind of another for a short while.
skill. At Rank 1o, .character also gains Mind Control at Rank 1 19,20 Roll 1d3+1 more times on this table for additional mental
skill. powers. If subsequent rolls duplicate previous rolls, add 1d3
Ranks to skill with that power.

H 11
861: Appearances 104 861: Appearances

861:
Instructions: Roll a d3. The result is the number of
itmes to select on this table. For each time, roll a d4 and a d1o.
The d4 represents the "1O's" digit, the d10 is the "1's" digit. A d4
result of 2 and a d10 result of 0 would be 20. Modify descriptions
as needed to be more appropriate for an alien race.
Roleplay: A character's personal affectations that she has
Appearances developed, her physique, how she dresses, and how she speaks
are building blocks that you can use to develop unique characteri­
zation. While a character's outward appearance could be symbolic
of his inward nature, it could just as easily be a mask, hiding the true
Use only if directed here by another table character within. Remember, appearances can be deceiving.

d4/d10 861: Appearances (roll a d4 & a 10) d4/d10 861:Appearances ( continued ... )
10 Foppish clothing. The character dresses in vainly inappro­ 30 Overweight. Character is heavier than average.
priate, dandified clothing. 31 Grossly overweight. Character is so morbidly obese that
11 Out-of-date clothing. The character's clothing is from an normal motion is impaired.
earlier time period. 32 Unusually muscular. Character has a body like a profes­
12 Military garb. Regardless of his past, he wears military­ sional weight-lifter.
style uniforms. 33 Unusually frail. Character looks like a slight wind would
13 Clothing reveals profession. Whatever the character bowl her over.
does for a living is readily apparent in his clothing. 34 Greasy-looking. Hair is oily, skin seems oily, mannerisms
14 Dresses simply. Wears plain, unadorned clothing. are oily. Looks like he might whip out either an illegal knife
15 Dresses well. Clothing is smartly tailored and usually quite or an automobile sales agreement at any time.
expensive. 35 Impressive-looking. First impressions are important and
16 Dresses poorly. Clothing is cheap, often gaudy and usually this guy looks like he could be a hero or a superstar.
inappropriate to the occasion. 36 Unimpressive-looking. Atfirstglance, this character seems
17 Dresses Severely. Wears strict, unadorned, no-nonsense hardly worth noting, he is lost in the crowd.
clothing. 37 Stoop-shouldered. Exhibiting bad posture, the character
18 Flashy. Wears an excessive amount of jewelry and or constantly hunches over.
designer label clothing. 38 Extremely tall. Character is much tallerthan average, tow­
19 Rebel. Dresses in a manner appropriate to someone who ering above folk usually considered tall.
is culturally at odds with society. 39 Extremely short. This character is so short that she is con­
20 Unkempt. Uncombed hair and a three-day beard (or un­ sidered as being a dwarf or midget.
washed for those who can't manage beard growth). 40 Big (really BIG). Character is substantially more massive
21 Effeminate. The character's actions remind one of a wo­ than the average person, regardless of height.
man, even though a "real" woman might act otherwise. 41 Petite (really small). Character is smaller, substantially
22 Macho. The character hides any personal weaknesses be­ less massive and more delicate than the average person
hind an "I-can-handle-anything" tough-guy demeanor. (but would not be considered a dwarf or midget).
23 Unusual speech. The character's way of speaking sets him 42 Hair. Roll a d4 on the subtable below.
apart. Roll a d1 0 on the subtable below. 1 Hairless. No hair on head.
1 Lisping voice. Replace "s" sounds with ''th" sounds. 2 Unusual hair style. Most people do not and
2 Loud voice. would not wear their hair this way.
3 Commanding voice. Sentences sound like orders. 3 Close-cropped hair. Character wears hair much
4 Hissing voice. "S" sounds are dragged out. shorter than currently popular styles.
5 Heavy accent. 4 Very long hair. Character wears hair longer than
6 High-pitched voice (possibly even squeaky) currently popular styles.
7 Deep, low, gravelly voice (also "husky") 43 Infirm. Character suffers from a disease that plagues her
8 Raspy, wheezy voice. with recurring and readily apparent symptoms, such as a
9 Soft, whispery voice. hacking cough, chills, dizziness, open sores, boils, crippled
10 Roll 1d2+1 more times on this subtable. limbs, gangrene, or changes in skin color, etc.
24 Tattooed. Has a prominent tattoo. Use Table 854: Birth­ 44 VisIble Injury. Character suffered a serious wound at some
marks to determine its appearance. point in the past. The wound's effects are still apparent.
25 Casual demeanor. Very relaxed. Nothing can be so impor­ Select the injury on Table 860: Serious Wounds.
tant that it makes her get upset or hurry. 45 Attractive. Members of the opposite sex find the character
26 Hyperlntense. Obviously no one understands the impor­ good to look upon.
tance of this situation or they'd be upset too! 46 Unattractive. Character is unpleasant to look upon.
27 Thin. Character is noticeably thinner than average. 47 Plain, Neither physically attractive nor repelling.
28 Cadaverously thIn. Character is thin to the point of looking 48 Allen-looking. Character has a weird, or alien look.
malnourished or a victim of war crimes. 49 , Multiple features. Roll 1 d2+1 additional times on this table.
29 Body odor. Character has a distinct odor. Smell may not be If two rolls contradict each other , use the first roll and reroll
bad, but it is readily apparent. the second.

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11
862: Crimes 105 862: Crimes

862: d20862: Crimes & Criminal Type (roll a d20)

1

2
Murderer. Kills people. Has a 30% chance to be a profes-
sional assassin who kills for cash. @ e
Kidnapper. Grabs victim and holds him for ransom.®
e
Crimes
3 Burglar. Breaking & entering specialist.@ or O
4 Pickpocket. Secretly removes valuables from passersby
or stores and shops.CD or 0
5 Extortionist or blackmailer.@
Use only if directed here by another table 6 Confidence artist. A "con man." CD
7 Thief. Steals from them what has. Roll a d6 on the
subtable below.
When someone intentionally injures another, takes or 1 Banditry. Robs travelers and raids villages.@@)
ruins their belongings, violates their rights, or does anything that 2 Mugging. Robs lone victims.@ e
society considers as wrong, they have committed a crime. Society 3 Holding up banks or stores. @
then takes upon itself the burden of punishing and rehabilitating 4 Uses a computer to steal information, services or
the criminal, normally fitting the punishment to the crime. merchandise.@
5 Shoplifter. CD
Crime and Punishment 6 Software Pirate. CD
Instructions: Flip back to Table 743: Others to determine 8 Smuggler. Transports illegal goods. @
against whom the crime was committed. Select the victim's Soci­ 9 Racketeer. Runs organized crime operations. @
al Status on Table 103: Social Status, then return here. Roll a d20 10 Spy. Discovers and steals the secrets of nations.®
and match the result against the table below to select the crime 11 Drug dealer. Sells deadly substances for profit. @
committed. The normal punishment for each crime follows in foot­ 12 Pirate. Scourge of the seas. ®@
note references after it. Apply them all. If a character is imprisoned 13 Embezzler. Secretly takes money from employer. ©
for a crime, get details on Table 540: Imprisoned! 14 Terrorist. Uses fear as a political weapon. @0@)
15 Thug. Muscle man for a gang. @
Notes: If the character committing the crime is Wealthy, re­ 16 Idea Criminal. Thinks wrong thoughts, particularly ones
duce the length of the sentence by 1d4 years. If the character is that disagree with prevailing social beliefs. Roll a d6. 1-2 =
Extremely Wealthy, roll a d6. On a result of 6, no sentence is Heretic (religious wrong-thinker). 3-4 = Radical (Political
served, otherwise reduce the sentence by 2d4 years. wrong-thinker). 5-6= Activist (social wrong-thinker).®
17 Vandal. Destroys others' property. CDO
Criminals 18 Substance abuser. Root of the drug problem. CDO
These are people who commit crimes. Some are hard-core 19 Sex Offender. Criminal accused of a sex-related crime.
professionals, some only do it once (for whatever reason), and Roll a d6 on the subtable below.
some do it because they are not, so to speak, well. 1 Unlawful perversion. CD@)
Instructions: Roll a d20 and match the result against the 2 Rape.® f.t
table. This is the criminal's primary illegal activity. If necessary, roll 3 Illegal Prostitution. CD
Hi/Lo for the criminal's sex. Hi= male. Lo= female. 4 Violates local sexual taboos. CD
Select the scale or extent of his illegal activities by rolling a d20. s Creating Pornography. @
A low result means a criminal of relatively little importance, such as 6 Child Molesting.® f)
a street punk, or a murdererwho killed once. A middle range result 20 Character committed two crimes that were linked togeth­
is an average career criminal with a long list of offenses. A high er in some way. Roll twice more on this table.
result is a well-known criminal, like a crimelord, who directs a
criminal empire or possibly a psychopathic mass murderer who
stalks the streets and heinously slays innocents.
Footnotes
Roleplay: Crime can change a character's life forever. If
known, it brands him as a criminal, to be known forever by his <D 1d4 years imprisonment. @ 2d4 years imprisonment.
crime, not by his profession or other deeds. If prosecuted, a char­ @ 1d6 years imprisonment. @ 1d10 years imprisonment.
acter faces years of imprisonment or even physical injury. Family, @ 1d8 years imprisonment. @ 2d10 years imprisonment.
friends or allies of the victim may come seeking compensation. ('J) If in a Barbaric culture or a Tech Level of 4 or less, Idea criminal
Yet, a crime that remains unknown, can still gnaw at the charac­ (Heretic or Radical) is imprisoned until wrong-thinking is renounced.
ter's conscience forever. NPCs have a 45% chance to be executed. For player characters, this
Criminal N PCs are people who knowingly do wrong. They may becomes 2d10 years of imprisonment. All other cultures, Heresy means
ejection from society.
be personable, nice to their moms, and give gifts to orphans, but @ (50 - Tech Level)% chance that NPCs are put to death. Player
ultimately, they prey on others (usually the weak) and see the world characters receive life sentences (1d20+20 years).
as their victim. Some elevate criminals to the status of hero. Others 0 Add 1d6 years to length of sentence.
feel they are victims of society and can't help but do what they do @ Character is publicly flogged. Subtract 1d4 from Charisma attri bute.
and often give criminals more rights and privileges than their 4D (30 - Tech Level)% chance that Character is tortured. Roll a d6. On
victims). Before you make a criminal out to be a hero or feel too a result of 6, the character receives a serious injury. Select the injury on
sorry for him, imagine yourself the victim of a crime, losing T-ab/e 859: Serious Wounds.
valuables ... or a loved one. That's part of what roleplay is all about. 0 Character must perform community service.
e If the victim was of higher social status, add footnote 0.

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11
863: Unusual Skills 106 863: Unusual Skills

863: tasting may save his companions some day.

Instructions: Roll a d20 on the table below to select the
Unusual Skills character's unusual skill. Then roll a d6 (for each skill, if additional
skills are selected). If the d6 roll is less than 6, the character has
a Rank 3 competency with the selected skill. If the d6 result is 6,
the character is Rank 4 with the skill.
Use only if directed here by another table The player and GM must decide and agree upon the details re­
garding each skill. Be inventive!
Sometimes the skills one learns are not immediately ap­ Roleplay: Use the unusual skill to add a bit of spice to the
plicable to the job of being a legendary hero. Yet they do add character's abilities. The character may never have to use her
dimension to a character. Who knows, maybe a hero's skill at wine social dancing skills in a life or death setting, but one never knows.

d20 863: Unusual Skills (roll a d20) d20 863: Unusual Skills (continued ... )
1 Social dancing-both formal and informal. 16 Theatrical ability. Roll a d1O on the subtable below to select
2 Professional gambling. the nature of this talent.
3 Pick pockets. 1 Acting-all the world's a stage.
4 Gourmet cooking. 2 Artistic dancing.
5 Sexual seduction. 3 Oration-dynamic public speaking.
6 Skiing. 4 Story-telling.
7 Skating. 5 Ventriloquism.
8 Artistic ability. Roll a d6 on the subtable below to select the 6 Makeup & Disguise - appear as someone else.
nature of this talent. 7 Circus skills (select on subtable 17 below).
1 Painting and Drawing. 8 Voice impersonation.
2 Holography (making holograms). 9 Juggling.
3 Sculpting. 10 Several talents. Roll 1d2+1 additional times on this
4 Jewelry making. subtable. A duplicate roll indicates skill is used at
5 Architectural design. the next higher Rank of competency.
6 Several talents. Roll 1d2+1 additional times onthis 17 Circus skills. Roll a d8 on the subtable below to select the
subtable. A duplicate roll indicates skill is used at nature of this talent.
the next higher Rank of competency. 1 Aerial Acrobatics, including flying trapeze.
9 Musical ability. Roll a d8 on the subtable below to select 2 Tight-rope walking.
this talent. 3 Animal training - exotic animals.
1 Play common musical instrument of own choice. 4 Clowning-acting like a clown.
2 Sing. 5 Stage Magic-perform feats of prestidigitation!
3 Song writing. 6 Theatrical ability (select on subtable 16 above).
4 Musical theater (acting and singing). 7 Horsemanship-riding and tricks.
5 Make or repair musical instruments. 8 Several talents. Roll 1d2+1 additional times on this
6 Play exotic musical instrument of own choice. subtable. A duplicate roll indicates skill is used at
7 Play by ear-hear a song, then play it instantly. the next higher Rank of competency.
8 Several talents. Roll 1d2+1 additional times on this 18 Miscellaneous skills. Roll a d10 on the subtable below to
subtable. A duplicate roll indicates skill is used at select the nature of this talent.
the next higher Rank of competency. 1 Astronomy-star watching.
10 Ability with textiles. Roll a d6 on the subtable below to 2 Astrology-fortune telling.
select the nature of this talent. 3 Calligraphy-formal or fancy penmanship.
1 Sewing. 5 Embroidery. 4 Lassoing with a lariat.
2 Weaving. 6 Knitting. 5 Wine/LiqueurTasting.
3 Tapestry design. 6 Sailing small craft-including pleasure boats.
4 Several talents. Roll 1d2+1 additional times on this 7 Bargaining with merchants, etc.
subtable. A duplicate roll indicates skill is used at 8 Negotiation and diplomacy.
the next higher Rank of competency. 9 Deep sea diving
11 Mountaineering- professional climbing. 10 Imitate monster noises.
12 Opposite hand weapon use with weapon of choice. 19 Dabbler at many skills. Roll 2d3 more times on this table to
13 Computer skills-can program or operate most any com­ select the skills possessed by the character.
puter. 20 Enthusiast at skill. Roll again on this table to select the skill.
14 Model making- make realistic miniatures of things. , Character has 1d2 additonal Ranks of ability with
15 Inventing -all sorts of useful and useless contraptions. this skill.

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11
864: Vehicles 107 864: Vehicles

864:
Vehicles ld20864C: Personal (roll a d20)
1 Motorized bicycle - go to the "bicycle"subtable on
Table 864F: Personal Self-Powered.
Use only if directed here by another table 2 Go-cart
3-4 ATC - all terrain cycle
This table is set up to define the basic attributes and 5-6 ATV - all terrain vehicle (4 wheel)

I
condition of a specific vehicle. It will not tailor a vehicle to your 7-12 Motorcycle. Roll a d6 on the Table below.
game system, it will only give a brief description. Since you have 1-2 Touring (traveling in style)
to fit this to your system, it's a good idea to let the GM review the 3-4 Dirt (rugged off-road) From Here
result-he may not want you to have a passenger airliner. 5-6 Road Racer (sleek and fast) Goto
Instructions: This is a multi-step procedure to develop the 13-14 Motor scooter Table864H
attributes of a vehicle obtained or encountered by the character. 15 Roll again on this table at +5.
First roll on Table 864A: Vehicles, and proceed to the indicated 16-18 Snowmobile - use the motorcycle "Size" table.
table. After deciding the specific vehicle, roll once on each of 19 Composite - you built something yourself. Roll three
Tables864H- L, unless instructed otherwise. Record this informa­ more times on this table and combine them.
tion on the back of your character history worksheet. Some genres 20 Special Type - roll on Table 864M: Type.
have additional modifiers to the rolls on these tables: 21 Golf cart
22-23 Jet Ski (water vehicle)
1. "Pulp Hero" is -5 on Tables 8648-G (vehicles). 24+ Six-tracker - six wheel ATV.
2. "Super heroes" are +5 on Table 864K: Special Features.
3. "SF Today" is -Son Table864M: Vehicle Type(if instructed).
4. "Horror" and "Espionage" are +5 to Table864J: Armament.
ld20864D: Automobiles (roll a d20).
ld20864A: Vehicles (roll a d20) Roll a d6, and on a result of 6, the car is a convertible.
1-2 Dune Buggy
1-2 Boat or Ship -Table 8648. 3-6 Compact/Economy
3-5 Motorized Personal -Table 864G. 7-9 Station wagon From Here
6-11 Automobile-Table 8640. 10-14 Mid-size Goto
12 Lo Tech. -Table 749G: Animal Transportation 15 Roll again on this table at +5. Table864H
13-17 Truck-Table864E. 16 Full-size
18-19 Self-Powered Personal -Table864F. 17-19 Sports car
20 Aircraft -Table 864G. 20 Special Type - roll on Table 864M: Type
21-23 Limousine
24-25+ Race car.
ld20864B: Boats & Ships (roll a d20)
1-3 Rowboat with outboard
4-6 Ski boat ld20864E: Trucks (roll a d20)
7 Pontoon Roll a d4. On a result of 4, truck is 4-wheel drive, if applicable.
From Here

I
8-12 Fishing boat (roll a d6)
Goto 1-3 Small pick-up truck - half ton
1-3 Local lake size
4-5 Deep lake size Table864H 4 Small range vehicle - two man (Example: Jeep CJ).
6 Deep sea size 5 Mud Runner - with oversized tires
6 Camper, pick-up style
11 Speed boat 7 RV (recreational vehicle) - four man
12-14 Sail boat - Roll d6+ 1 for needed crewsize. 8-9 Large pick-up truck - three-quarter ton
15 Roll again on this table at +5. 10 Large range or "safari" vehicle - six man
16 Tug boat 11 RV (recreational vehicle) - eight man
17 Freighter (large cargo ship) 12-14 Panel truck (small enclosed delivery truck)
18 Air boat - everglades variety 15 Roll again on this table at +5 ..-F_ro_m_H_e__,
re
19 Special Type - roll on Table 864M: Type 16 Semi-truck (cab & trailer).
21 30' Cabin cruiser Go 10
17 Heavy Duty, Specialized. Table 864H
22 "Cigarette Boat" - world class speed boat 18-19 Van. Not a passenger vehicle.
23 45' Yacht 20 Special Type - roll on Table 864M: Type
24 Hydro-foil yacht 21-2\ "Puller" - the county fair main events
25+ Hovercraft - roll for Hi/Lo. Hi= six man, Lo= large ferry 24+ "Crusher" - the car crunching variety

H Table 864 continues on the next page ...

11
864: Vehicles 108 864: Vehicles

ld20864F: Self-Powered (roll a d20)

Note: Table 864J: Armaments is modified by -5 when using
ld20864J: Armament (roll a d20)
1-12 None -the standard for most vehicles. From Here
I
results from this table. 13-16 Lightly Armed -defensive weapons. Go to
Well Armed -offensively well off.
1 Skates. Roll for Hi/Lo. Hi = Ice. Lo = Roller. 17-18
Heavily Armed -like it says.
Table864K
2
3
Skateboard
Scooter
19
20 Armed to the Teeth -incredible destructive power. I
4-6 Bicycles - roll a d10 on the subtable below.
1-3 Mountain Bike 8 Unicycle ld20864:K Special Features (roll a d20)
11 4-6 Touring Bike 9 Three-wheeler
7 Two-man Bike 10 Racing Bike 1-6 None.
7-8 Computer(ordevice)-assisted navigation-this could
11-12 Rowboat be anything, just make it appropriate.
13 Canoe 9 The vehicle carries 1d4 items from From Here
14 Rubber raft - seating for 1d4+1 passengers. Table 8548: Wondrous Devices.
Roll again on this table at +5.
Go to
15 10-11 Large compartments or storage area. Table864L
Paddle boat
�Fr-om-H-er_e_,
16 12 Combination vehicle - Roll again on
17 Wind-surfer Go to
Table 864A: Vehicles, and combine the results.
18-19 Hang glider Table 864H
13-14 Special Defenses - the defenses are better than
20 Special Type - roll on Table 864M: Type those found on similar vehicles.
21+ Hot air balloon 15 Innovative "drive train" - uses half the fuel energy, and
lasts twice as long.
16-17 Hidden compartments-only characterknows them all
ld20864G: Aircraft (roll a d20) 18 Engineering miracle -vehicle is easily disassembled,
1 Bi-plane - commonly used for crop-dusting. making it easy to hide. Repairs take half as long.
2-3 Sea plane 19-20 Roll twice more on this table.
4-5 Kit-plane - a one man build-it-yourself kit.
6 Gyrocopter
7-8 Helicopter. Roll 1d6+1 for passenger capability. ld20864L: Liabilities (roll a d20)
9-13 Personal travel plane. Roll a d4: 1-5 None.
1 Single engine prop driven - seats up to three. 6-8 Foreign design. Vehicle is un familiarto the character.
2 Double engine prop driven - seats up to six. 9 Defective "drive train" -until fixed, will operate at only
3 Single engine turbine - seats up to four. half the normal speed.
4 Double engine turbine - seats up to eight. From Here 10-11 Almost no cargo space - half the normal.
Glider Go to 12 Unfinished. It needs another eight hours in the factory.
Recognizable-An obvious vehicle, known by MANY.
14
Roll again on this table at +5. 13-14
Inefficient "drive train" -takes twice the fuel/energy of
15 Table864H
Cargo plane - lots of empty space. 15
similar models.
16-18
Conversion kit - attaches to a specific car and lets it fly.
Customized-uses non-standard parts. Repairs cost
19
Special Type - roll on Table 864M: Type 16-17
1d100% more than normal.
20
21- 24 Passenger Plane - prop driven
Passenger Jet - turbine 18 GM Only: See #864 on Table 965: GM's Specials.
Roll twice more on this table.
25+
19-20

ld20864H: Age (roll a d20) From Here ld20 864M: Type (roll a d20)
New -right out of the factory. Goto
For each result on this table, go back to the vehicle table that
1-4
Recent -within d4 years. Table864I
sent you here and roll again to determine the vehicle's nature.
5-7
8-12 Average -within 2d4 years.
13-16 Older- 3d4+4 years 1-4 Advanced Prototype-Vehicle is 2d3 years ahead of
17-19 Aged -3d4+12 years. it's time. For each successive time this is selected, add another
20 Antique - roll again and add +25 years to the result. 2d3 years and give the vehicle one item from Table 8548:
For subsequent "antique" results, add another 25 years. This Wondrous Devices.
vehicle need NOT be a classic-it just hangs on. 5-12 Classic - Considered a classic by those who know.
The vehicle's value is d4+1 times the standard for a vehicle in

l
ld20864I: Condition (roll a d20) its condition. A value roll is allowed every time "classic" is
selected, and the value multiplier is cumulative.
1 Wrecked -can be repaired at cost, or can be sold for 13-19 Luxury -Vehicle simply exudes money, and is one of
useable parts. the finest in its class. The vehicle's value is d6+4 times the
2-4 Abused -looks terrible, but runs. standard for a vehicle in its condition. Every time that "luxury"
5-16 Normal -standard wear and tear. From Here
i� selected, up the value by another 1d4 increments.
17-19 Pampered -very good condition. Goto
20 Mint -show and showroom quality. Table864J 20 Roll twice more on this table.

H From Here - Return to the Table that sent you here ...
H
965: GM's Specials 109 965: GM's Specials

965:
1 It has drained the life from 1d100 people.
2 An ancient wrong is ri9hted.
3 It is destroyed by magic or weird science.
4 It's undecayed body is properly interred. Right now, its in a
famous museum, on exhibit as a curiosity.
S It is a guardian or sentinel spirit. It seeks either a willing replace­
ment soul to perform its task or an end to the need for its

GM's Specials
protection. What it guards against will be fairly awesome in itself.
6 It is an ancient horror, entombed long ago by a prehistoric
shaman. It is just now stirring to wakefulness and world conquest.
526: The items were stolen from an ancient treasure trove. Go to
Use only if directed here by another table entry 853 for the source of the treasure. Secretly put a 5 point
penalty on all the character's actions so long as he possesses
these items. Make it very hard for the character to get rid of them.
For use by Game Master's Only!
536: The box contains an item from Table 853: Gifts and Legacies.
Players stop reading NOW! Who the woman refers to as "them" and why the object is important
is a mystery that you can develop into an adventure. "They" might
Instructions: The numbers before the entries below be evil cultists trying to retrieve an artifact, hired assassins sent to
correspond to the table that instructed you to come here. Read retrieve a valuable heirloom, or inhuman monsters bent on con­
only that entry and then return to the table that sent you here. Be quering the world. The woman could be a Noble, an adventurer, or
honest or you may spoil a later surprise for yourself. just a luckless officer worker, in the wrong place at the wrong time
104B: All the character's siblings are unknown to the orphaned 537: The crystal also awakens a "Wild Talent" in the characterthat
character- as are his actual birth order, place of birth and time only comes into being under times of stress. Select this talent on
of birth. The GM should roll these separately. Roll a d4 on the Table 860: Psychic Powers.
subtable below for further information.
1 The character's parents are not dead and still seek hm. 642A: This character has a 50% chance to have latent supernatu­
2 The character's starting money is the remnants of a trust fund ral powers. Such powers may come to the fore later in life or if the
started by his parents. character is exposed to some intense supernatural event.
3 Character will have 1d4 companions of a similar age who are like
family to him. Select them on Table 750: Companions. 642B: This character has a natural immunity to magic. This is a +4
4 Roll twice more on this subtable, rerolling duplicates. bonus to all attempts to use magical or supernatural force on him
104D: Assume that the relative was previously unknown to the or her. Conversely, this is a -4 penalty to any attempts to use
character, like a long-lost brother or cousin, or that maybe he could supernatural forces.
not exist unless a fluke or flaw existed in time or the nature of the 745: The characterwas the result of a genetic breeding experiment
universe, such as an ancestor or descendant. and was born without a recognized mother or father. He has been
106B: Character was part of siamese twins, though since sepa­ raised by 1 d6 now-elderly research scientists who consider him to
rated, they are more effective together(touching) than when apart. be their "child." Select 1d3 abilities taken from Table 858: Exotic
Features, but do not inform the character of these abilities until
106C. Character was switched at birth by a kind doctor-his or her such time as he might accidentally discover their existence.
real family is very dark, mysterious, and evil ... and they are still
looking for the character. 750A: The Companion is really a supernatural being in the guise
of a mortal (possibly an angel, demon, spirit, or ancient "god"). If
107A: The N PC's money comes from someplace otherthan an or­ this is ever discovered, the Companion departs, leaving the char­
mal occupation or social position. Roll a d6 on the subtable below acter with a parting gift from Table 853: Gifts & Legacies.
to determine where the money comes from.
1 NPC has an adventurer's hoard of gold and treasure.
750B/751: The Companion/Rival(presumed to be of the opposite
2 NPC is secretly a criminal. Income comes from crime. sex) is secretly in love with the character. He or she will not reveal
3 NPC's money comes from a secret inheritance. the affection for the character, since he or she feels that the
4 NPC discovered a lost treasure and loots it as needed. character will probably reject itr.
S NPC recieves money from investments. 853: Roll a d1 O on the subtable below to determine what type of
6 NPC manipulates credit accounts with computers.
ancient culture produced th'e item or sculpture. The GM may have
208 A/B: Roll for Hi/Lo: to further define the result.
On a Hi result, the character is an heir to a fortune that would 1 Egyptian 9European 17 lncan
advance his Social Status 1d3 levels. Relatives who would stand 2 American 10
Middle Eastern 18 Mayan
to profit from his disappearance don't want him to come back. 3 Grecian 11
Far Eastern 19 Sculpture is
On a Lo result, the character is heir to a special piece of 4 Roman 12
Pacific Island cursed. Reroll.
5 African 13
Unknown 20 Sculpture is magi­
property. Select it under entry 14 of Table 853: Gifts & Legacies. 6 Australian 14 Indian (India) cal. Reroll.
211: Years later, the character gets a letter in the mail. Apparently 7 Central American 15 A alien culture
8 Early Christian 16 An inhuman culture
the person whom she helped was an incredibly wealthy eccentric
who has died and left a fortune to the character, equal to 1d100 x 854B: Reroll the device on Table 8548: Wondrous Devices, then
1o times the character's base starting money. Then go to Table roll a d1O. If the d10 result is 1-4, give the device some form of fatal
539: Death of a Loved One and follow instructions there. flaw, possibly a deadly side-effect, or a built in predisposition to­
wards failure at the worst time. If the d10 result is 6-10, keep the
523: The unquiet spirit cannot rest until one of the following P9Wers of the machine secret, a mysteryforthe character to solve.
conditions is met:
Continued ... � 864: The vehicle is stolen. Assume that the law is looking for this
one. Use Table 743: Others to select the vehicle's previous owner.

,, From Here - Return to the Table that sent you here ...
11
Bibliography 110 Bibliography

I Bibliography
Abrams, April; Abrams, Stephen; Everson, Anita; and Everson, Jon.
(Midkemia Press]. "Populating Sanctury." In Robert L. Asprin's
Niles,Douglas. Top Secret S.I. Edited by Warren Spector. Lake Geneva,
Wisconsin: TSR, Inc., 1987.
I
Thieves World Game Master's Guide for Sanctuary. Edited by O'Green, Mark. Personal letter. 22 September, 1987.
Steve Perrin, Greg Stafford, and Lynn Willis. Berkley, California: Perrin, Steve; Stafford,Greg; Henderson, Steve; and Willis, Lynn. Rune­
Chaosium, Inc., 1981. quest. 2nd ed. Berkeley, California: Chaosium, Inc., 1979.
Abrams, Stephen; and Iverson, John. Cites: A gamemaster's guide to Perrin, Steve; Stafford, Greg; Henderson, Steve; and Willis, Lynn.
encounters and other rules for fantasy games. San Diego, Califor­ Runequest. 3rd ed. Edited by Yurek Chodak, Sherman Kahn,
nia: Abrams and Everson, 1979. Charlie Krank, and Sandy Petersen. Baltimore, Maryland: Avalon
Acres,Mark, Krebs, Rick and Moldvay, Tom. Gangbusters. 3rd ed. Steve Hill Game Company, 1984.
Winter,Jon Pickens, Steven E. Schend,ed. Lake Geneva,Wiscon­ Petersen, Sandy. Call of Cthulhu. 4th ed. Lynn Willis, ed. Oakland,
sin: TSR, Inc., 1990. California: Chaosium, Inc, 1989.
Allston, Aaron and Kaufman, Douglas. Ghostbusters International. Bill Petersen, Sandy. Call of Cthulhu. Berkley, California: Chaosium, Inc.,
Slaviscek, Jonatha Ariadne Caspian, ed. Honesdale, Pennsylva­ 1981.
nia: West End Games Petersen, Sandy; Willis, Lynn; and Stafford, Greg. Ghostbusters. Edited
Barker, Jack A. and Winnegar, Ray. The Batman Role-Playing Game. by Paul Murphy and Greg Costikyan. New York: West End Games,
Jack A. Barker, Jacqueline Leeper, and Ike Scott, ed. Niles, IL: Inc., 1986.
Mayfair Games Inc., 1989. Pondsmith,Mike. Cyberpunk. Berkeley, California: R. Talsorian Games,
Barlowe,Wayne and Summers,Ian. Barlowe's Guide to Extra-Terrestials. Inc., 1988.
New York: Workman Publishing,1979. Pondsmith, Mike. Teenagers from Outer Space. Mike Jones, Lisa
Blume,Brian; Gygax,Gary;Winter,Steve; Cook,Dave;Grubb,Jeff. Boot Pondsmith, Linda Bryant, Steve Hall, Debbie Notkin, ed. Berkeley,
HJ1/. 3rd ed. Lake Geneva, Wisconsin: TSR, Inc., 1990. California: R. Talsorian Games, Inc., 1989.
Caparula, J. M.; and Haring, Scott. GURPS Horror. 2nd ed. Lloyd Rahman,Glenn. "New Phobias" In Cthulhu Companion. Edited by Sandy
Blankenship and Steve Jackson,ed. Austin,Texas: Steve Jackson Petersen. Berkley, California: Chaosium, Inc., 1983.
Games, 1990. Rose,Greg. GURPS Special Ops. Austin,Texas: Steve Jackson Games,
Chadwick,Frank. Twilight: 2000. Bloomington, Illinois: Game Designers' 1989.
Workshop, 1984. Siembieda, Kevin. Heroes Unlimited. Revised edition. Detroit, Michigan:
Chadwick, Frank. Twilight: 2000. 2nd ed. Bloomington, Illinois: Game Palladium Books, 1983.
Designers' Workshop, 1984. Siembieda, Kevin. The Palladium Role Playing Game. Revised edition.
Charette, Bob; Hume, Paul and Dowd, Tom. Shadowrun. Chicago, Detroit, Michigan: Palladium Books, 1987.
Illinois: FASA Corporation, 1989. Slavicsek, Bill and Smith, Curtis. The Star Wars Sourcebook. Edited by
Costikyan, Greg. Star Wars: The Roleplaying Game. Edited by Eric Jeffery L. Briggs and Paul Murphy. New York: West End Games,
Goldberg, Paul Murphy, and Bill Slaviscek. New York: West End 1987.
Games, Inc., 1987. Stackpole, Michael A. Mercenaries Spies & Private Eyes. Liz Danforth,ed.
Dee, Jeff and Dee, 'Manda. TWERPS Basic Rules. Grand Rapids, Scottsdale, Arizona: Blade, 1983.
Michigan: Reindeer Games,1987. Stackpole, Michael A., editor. Citybook Ill Deadly Nightside. Van Nuys,
Dee, Jeff and Herman, Jack. Villains & Vigilantes. Roslyn, New York: California: Task Force Games, 1983.
Fantasy Games Unlimited, 1982. Stock,Brad and Lane,Brian. "Birth Tables for D&D." The Dragon. October
Gorden, Greg; Kaufman, Douglas; Slavicsek, Bill. TORG. Honesdale, 1976.
Pennsylvania: West End Games, 1990. Sustare, B. Dennis; and Hendrick,Arnold. Swordbearer. 2nd ed. Roslyn,
Gorden, Greg; Winnegar, Ray; and Cook, Thomas. DC Heroes Role­ New York: Fantasy Games Unlimited, 1985.
Playing Game. 2nd ed. Niles, Illinois: Mayfair Games, Inc., 1989. TheBible: The New Oxford Annotated Bible. Revised Standard Version.
Grubb, Jeff and Winter, Steve. Marvel Super Heroes The Heroic Role­ Edited by Herbert G. May and Bruce M. Metzger. New York, New
Playing Game. Lake Geneva, Wisconsin: TSR, Inc., 1984. York: Oxford University Press, 1973.
Gygax, Gary. Dungeon Masters Guide. Lake Geneva, Wisconsin: TSR Thompson,Kevin. "Insanity,or Why is My Character Eating Leaves?" The
Games, 1979. Dragon. September 1978.
Hoffman, Mark S.,ed. The WorldA/manac andBook ofFacts 1991. New Tucholka, Richard. Bureau 13 Stalking the Night Fantastic. Madison
York, NY: Phares Books, 1990. Heights, Michigan: Tri Tac Systems, 1990.
Jackson, Steve. GU RPSBasic Set. 3rd ed. Austin, Texas: Steve Jackson Wujcik, Eric. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles & Other Strangeness. Detroit,
Games, 1989. Michigan: Palladium Books, 1985.
Jaquays,Paul. "The Fantasy Role-Playing Previous History System." The Wujcik, Erick. Ninjas & Superspies. Detroit, Michigan: Palladium Books,
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Jaquays,Paul. Central Casting: Heroes for Tomorrow. Van Nuys,Califor­
nia: Task Force Games, 1989. A Final Note of Thanks
Jaquays,Paul. Central Casting: Heroes of Legend. Van Nuys,California: The editor would like to thank a number of fine folks who helped make
Task Force Games, 1988. this book happen. to Randy Kuipers and John Terra, who put up with my
Jaquays, Paul; Cox, Randy; and Wieland, Tamara. "ldiosyncracies in incessant hounding for final copy; to Diana Harlan Stein and Tom Dow who
D&D." The Dungeoneer. June-December 1977. came through with illustrations on a tight deadline; to Randy Cox who slapped
Ladyman, David; Leason, Jeff R.; and Prosperi, Louis J. Chill. 2nd ed. pages down on art boards while enduring the black hole that is my studio; to
Niles, Illinois: Mayfair Games, Inc., 1990. Tom Cushman, T.R. and Ken at ABC Reproduction, who did my production
McCall,Randy and Siembieda, Kevin. Beyond the Supernatural. Detroit, camera work on this and another book at the same time; to Suzanne at Jackson
Michigan: Palladium Books, 1988. Printing who ran out the cover type; to Darlene who rendered the logo these
McDevill, Bradley K.; Cerny, L. Lee; and Mytczynskyj, Walter H. Night nlmy years ago; to Kelly, Phil, Dave, Fernando and the other folks at the
Life. Swanton, Ohio: Stellar Games.
Jackson Inacomp Computer Center, who put up with me hogging the laser
McDonald, George and Peterson, Steve. Champions, The Super Hero
Role Playing Game. 2nd ed. Belmont, California: Hero Games,
printer and using weird paper for hours on end; to Susan Van Camp who gave
1981. me a good cover on next to no notice at all; and especially to my wife Ruta,
Melville, Joy. Phobias and Obsessions. New York: Coward, Mccann & who willingly ran production errands around the state and to my kids, Zachary
Geoghegan, Inc., 1977. and Amanda, all of whom put up with a grouch when the deadlines became
deadly; to all of you, my heartfelt THANKS!
 Charaoter Creation System.
.for All 20th·,Century �leplay Games

eal heroes
come in all shapes
and sizes.
'11hey're nol stereotypes -
no1• are they cl.oned from a
mo·bion picbure or televisfou
screen. Real heroes are uniq1,1e.
Even wben made larger than
life, they still vibrate with LhaL
last key word: "LIFE�"
Yet t:iO often,. role players fa.U
back on stereotypes - flat, un­
original, clich6 ,characters. If
characters are developed at aill, Andjust what cµd YOUR character DO as a child?
it's in terms of their possessions
or powel'S. Can someone really
be deli ned by the car t.hey drive d.20 524A: Espio-gage Events (roll a d20)
or how well Lhey t.hrow a Pl.Ulch? I Cha�acter discovers that his �arents are cdeep-eover moles for a spy
With the CeQ,tra,l Ca1�ting:·1M ager:i,�y. Consult Table·524B: Ager1cy types.
character creation system, chm-­ 2 Character discovers that a relative is an aotlve espionage agent. Consult
acters take on lives oftheir own. bo.th Table t(UO: Otlrer R8.latlons.fo.r the relatlvei ane Tab/e524B: Agenpy types.
They gain families, friend.s1 ene­ 3 Character ls mistaken for a spy. Co·r;isult Table 524B: AgeRcy Types.
mies, {ilerso11alities, detailed past 4 Character's ancestor was a spy for an early, espionage organization.
histories, and most importantly, Consult T;ible B.5�: Gff(s and Legacf(J!i for the qistlnoti'v'.e he1r10·01tt she recfeves.
- they g�I'I motiva:tiotiS for life s Whi)e ir, the mill,ary, the character serves in Military Intelligence. Find the
and advent;l,lring. CompleLe a events on Table 527: Military Experience.
Central Ca.sling history fo.r a 6-8 Gharacter Is tf'!l<en as:a hostage tn a c.r!me-related evemt. Roll Jor Hi/Lo.
char-act.er and you will know Consult T.abfe 862: Crimes.
where she came from, whati she's !) 'Character is. p(essed Into service as a.govemment espienage agent.
done with her life, and who she JO.I I Gharapter invalved il'I a pellth:al or TerrC:l�lst Event. Roll tor HI/La. II Hi,
knpws - beth her friends and consult Table 524B: Ter:i:orist Events. If Lo. consult Table 5260: Political Events.
her en,e:mies. You'Jl have a real U Character is spe,nspre.d by a rnystei'iou!.-pa1ro111. She soon dlscovets that
eha.racter on your hands. the patron Is grooming her for espionage work. See Table 535: Irr, the Service of ...
The Central Casting sy&.tern
is a stand-alone network of
tables cbarts and rolepla.y This �,p�\< c:9i:i1ains everythi.flg you need (excefi>l dice) ro e•reare de_�'\in�
gujd({S for ereabing thoroughly character ]ii.stories ,and include.� .guidelines and mle ri'lateriuls t0 aceomb,­
dole an,f and.al I 00n1emp0rary r0lcpl�yi1Jg ganie syst�ms.
individualized,ch.aracters. By fol­
lowing step-by-step'instructions, CentraJ Casting: ™ Heroes•NOW! . " ..
Game Masten; and players can, lil,!s been produced by Jaquay$ D�sign $wo.io •
give lifo to any charact,er. All you forTask Force Games
need is dice. •© l 99 l TMk Poree Gt\"1CS

Il?'m:.11 i'f\lJiilJ!..� \1]-l\:lxf:&s �..··rJu #8544

JEm:P..J., lBI.i;�JEl§l' 'J['{Q:,1D,../-'.,1Yi • ,lluairatlon, ,, 1980 Jacr.s:o,, C:;IOztm Pa\rf<i,l USl!d h�tll win, pormls�[on.