A couple minor corrections. The Starter Set does come with a blank character sheet, it is on the back of the add you held up. The dice are also machines instead of molded so they should roll more evenly than Chessex dice. The distinction between the box names was overly nitpicky, the starter box is quite obviously designed for someone who has never played before. The rules are just simpler so there is less hand holding required.
I had very little experience with tabletop roleplaying games and wanted to get into them. I had friends in a similar boat that wanted to get into it but didn't know where to begin. On a whim I decided I should try being a dm/gm myself and researched these two products. Reviews like this steered me towards Paizo's Beginner Box, and I'm glad for it. Starting from almost no experience and going into GMing my own table, every inclusion of the Beginner Box has been instrumental to the success of my first campaign, and it would have been an immense struggle to overcome the task of being a new gm if any single component were missing. If, like me, you're trying to go from nil experience to running a full game with some supportive and patient friends, well, I can't recommend Paizo's Beginner Box enough. Thanks for this review. Your assessment that the D&D Starter set wasn't tuned for beginners so much as it was geared for returning players was a key factor in determining which product was right for me. Not only is the Pathfinder Beginner's Box a tremendous value, but it really is everything you need to get started. I think if I had ended up with the D&D Starter Set, I'd have still felt completely overwhelmed with the task of starting up a roleplaying experience for my friends and I. Having moved on from the Beginner Box, I'll also go on to say that each and every book I've purchased for Pathfinder has been similarly impressive and I'm overall very happy with Pathfinder in its entirety. If a Beginner Box is supposed to be a starting point towards a greater destination, consider where you'll end up. Beyond the Beginner Box, Pathfinder won't let you down as you get more books and dive deeper into it, at least not from what I've seen so far.
Thanks for your insightful comment. I'm in the exact same position and now I will buy the Paizo box over the D&D Starter Set, even though I just want to play D&D 5e. Thanks!
I am new to RPG’s too and tend to agree. I’m finding 5e to be pretty ‘muddy’ with a lot of unanswered questions but Paizo has really taken the time to explain it for true beginners. I’m actually modding the rules into something simpler for my kids (and me). Like how the heck to I apply proficiency bonuses. I still don’t know.
DMark, I just wanted to say thanks very much for this video. It was exactly the comparison I was looking for. I've been considering how to get my 12 yr old son started on role-playing, and I think Pathfinder is what we will get. Your explanation of 'starter' vs 'beginner' was a good bit of help. Kids these days are so visually attuned, I think the Paizo product is what will keep his attention long enough to get him going. For myself, while I have role-played on console/computer game versions of D&D (Baldur's Gate, etc), I never have sat down to a true pencil and paper role playing experience, so this will check off an item on my Bucket List, lol. :D
I got out of RPing for a long time, and I have to say- Pathfinder is a lot of fun. Aside from the fact that it converts easily from DnD 3.5, which is great, The Witch class is super duper fun. (Though how it doesnt have Tasha's Hideous Laughter I will never know.) Either way, Looks like RP just became fun again.
***** NO, no Mark! No witch should have to go through life without being able to incapacitate a man with Joker-venom-esque laughter. It is too hilarious to stop the high level fighter by making him fall prone laughing maniacally.
As a NEW player. Should i buy the starter/beginner sets first? Or could i just dive into the big books? :) And if so. Wich would you recommend to a new player?
+Dystem if you are new to role playing games in general i would say a box set.... if you have played a little before you can safely pick up pathfinder and D&D with a core rulebook and a bit of reading
both are great games sets for beginners. The pathfinder set does come with the paper minis and a map to get you started. That way you can get used to the game and combat using miniatures. I would suggest looking on amazon- right now there are always tons of marked down games. you may be able to find a boxed set for very cheap..
Im confused, are they the same game or what? I ordered the starter books for DnD 5th, but im completely new at RP'ing and have no one to guide or help me.
Pathfinder is a different game made by a different company, but it is based off an older version of dnd, so while they're not compatible systems, they share a lot of the same core ideas.
Pathfinder Beginner Box is much better value even if it is more expensive. I feel like this box set has many months of gaming and then some where as the Starter Box by itself only has a couple months of gaming at most. Starter is still a great product but it doesn't measure up to to the Paizo product.
Correct me if I am wrong, but the PF Beginner Box was not a launch product for Pathfinder. I am guessing that once WotC has launched the remaining products we will see something very similar to the PF Beginner Box. I personally feel as though there is a difference between a starter set and beginner box. One is to launch a new product line and the other is to bring new players into an existing line. There is also a huge price difference in the 2 products, one is $12 on amazon(.ca) and the other is $37. For the price, you definitely get what you paid for. The module alone is worth $12. On the other hand, I could never justify paying for the PF Beginner Box as I did not see the value at (last time I checked before today) $49. That is of course just my opinion.
Tim McDonald no it was geared just to beginners=(paizo).... i doubt WOTC will bring out a new boxed set to compete with its own " basic set".. but you never know..
***** "no it was geared just to beginners...." Are you referring to the PF BB or the D&D SS? I have assumptions on which one you were referring to, but I don't like to reply to things based on assumptions.
Tim McDonald I meant to say i doubt wotc will put out another basic boxed set...... They seem to be full steam ahead with more advanced content coming out.
I think they both have a similiar if not the same purpose. Be a gateway to the main game regardless if someone has or hasn't played a tabletop rpg before. The BB does a better job in my opinion that the D&DS does. Both are great products and I own both. I just think Paizo did a much better job.
Lol you tried to justify why wotc shorted people on the percentile dice by saying it's not used much. I ask you, how often is the d12 used? Yep even less often but it's there. Just one of many reasons why imo paizo has a better product out. Not going into the other reasons, don't want to start an unfriendly debate. With that being said I am going to give 5e a chance like I did 4e and I like your videos. Keep them coming.
skythekidgamer pathfinder was born from d&d 3.5..when wotc discontinued the edition Paizo came out with Pathfinder. lots of folks adopted pathfinder b/c it was so similar to 3rd an 3.5 edition.
soooo in otherwords it is a dnd reboot made by a sister company for others to play but then dnd came back and now people see them as 2 different games?
pretty much... Pathfinder did make some improvements to the game system. Some folks call Pathfinder = D&D 3.75 edition. Then Hasbro ( wotc) came out with 4th edition which wasnt as popular ( and many folks felt it was a money grab-make folks buy new books). With 4th edition sales dwindling Pathfinder was easily picked up by 3rd editon players. And it was easy to convert older 3rd edition modules,adventures to pathfinder which helped it sales.Paizo also has a unique business model in making Adventure paths ( 6book campagins).
It's made by a different company. Paizo used to publish material for dnd 3.5, but broke off on their own when it got discontinued. A lot of people didn't like dnd 4e and prefered to stick with the older system. Paizo took the core of 3.5 and reworked into a similar but different system to tap into that market.
As someone who is looking at getting into a tabletop RPG, this video really piqued my interest in the Pathfinder Beginner box. My only question is: how do you arrange who is the GM in a given session? Surely that player must feel somewhat left out, as they don't get to level up/develop their character?
David Williamson it really depends on how tactical you wish to make it... The basic rules ( beginners set) doesn't use attacks of opportunity . but does offer some rules such as flanking. You can always choose to not use flanking rules ( a good rule of thumb is to adjust the rules to fit your GM'ing style and find what works best with your players).... I like more tactical combats ( if players are experienced) and it is a great way for really smart creatures like dragons to try and gain a advantage over players ( swooping down and such) .. but you can easily adjust your game to be grid less and downplay the tactical rules...
both beginner sets are a good value.. the pathfinder set gives you a little more for the price ( nice map and monster tokens) , and the D&D set- gives you a great starter quest and some online content also
Great video but I do not trust Wizards to much anymore. Pathfinder from birth to now has been releasing stuff to round out the 3.5ish set. Wizards in roughly the same time has sold us 3 sets of books (counting the 3.5, 4 if you count the 3.0). I could be wrong on that but i don't think so. So unless your really wanting to see what new D&D is like I would suggest going with Pathfinder. It has most bang for your buck (I don't think dice are "free" its included in price. There is no set without the dice.) the mini punch outs can easily be used in the D&D setting as well if ya decide later to try it out as well. Thanks again for the video kinda stumbled on it gonna check out some more of your stuff.
+Advocatus Diaboli pathfinder came out towards end of 3.5 ... but when WOTC decided to cancel 3.5 paizo picked it up and tweaked a few things...thus pathfinder was born......I know some folks gripe about additional content ( from paizo) but a company has to make money....
I think Paizo has given loads of content its Wizards that are milking people for money. Paizo I think proved that the 3.5 was not all that broke. I still give them major credit for only really needing 1 book to play the game not to mention all the stuff online. Pathfinder box for sure lol
+Advocatus Diaboli wells WOTC's business model has turned into - lets bring out a new edition and re sell the same books over and over.... I think we all understand they need to make money ( but they can do this with new minis, maps, and campaign settings) not milking the players ...
it really depends on a persons play style... If you like minis & maps more ( i would go pathfinder) .. if you prefer theater of the mind ( no maps and minis- you may prefer D&D). I think a 9yr old will still have a strong imagination ( so either are valid choices) ... I would prob show him both ( or heck even this video). My little one has used the minis in the pathfinder set to make her own little games before also. If you little one might run their own games ( with his/her friends- i would suggest the pathfinder set also ( it has more content)
I've heard Pathfinder is a tad more complicated than 5e as a system, but since these are both simplified versions of the complete games, I think you could go with either one.
Curious, I am an avid RPG video gamer and when I head back for break a few of my friends have discussed trying a tabletop. None of us have any experience outside of video games, we know each other well, have a great time together, and are all intelligent and creative. Most of the websites I have seen said to get one person who has played before or it won't go well. I am looking for a 2-6 hour game to play with four noobs. I'd likely run the game and they would play. I would likely continue to play these types of games if I have a good time. The others would likley be a one and done unless an amazing experience. Which is the best for our purposes; those purposes being a free form fantasy game that is requires no experience and is low on pre-game prep time and mechanics without sacrificing the potential for creative or narrative fun? And if you could, explain why you suggest that game/games. Thanks in advance for any recs
Nicholas Velissaris it helps to have someone who knows the rules ...but I would even with 4 noobs..take it slow and have fun. the most important thing is to have fun.knowledge of the rules will come in time.
paizo has some beginner quests that are geared for quicker games so you can get your feet wet... it gives players and the gms a little bit of time to work into the rules and game system.. i think i have the extra bonus scenarios linked...Ooo it also walks you thru how to transition to the full RPG system..and its free. paizo.com/products/btpy8uqm?Pathfinder-Roleplaying-Game-Beginner-Box-Transitions
Thank you. This is exactly what I was thinking, but I was unsure if it would be possible without making them heavily prep. Yes, I am aware it is limiting. I am one to get into it much more than the others, and would likely progress to a more time consuming engagement. I am trying to find something immersive that I can prep for, but would not end up with my buddies saying, "sure" then nobody following through until we all meet up to play. So something that requires less pre-game prep for the players and can be more narrative and creative on-the-fly would be ideal. I binge watched titansgrave the last couple of days and something like that would be great...with the exception of the 11 hour game length and full world/character development done before game time. I am hoping for a beginner or starter pack that can accommodate a brief introduction and enjoyable experience without restricting the creative freedom seen in more time demanding games. I am not even sure if it is possible, which is why I posted. Thank you for the suggestions and any ideas presented I will research and see if it works
I Think D&D5 is much more friendly for beginners than Pathfinder where u need weeks an month to understand all the rules. Some friends and me intend start playing D&D or Pathfinder, but i think that we will use d&d despite of its only in english and some players don't understand english well. But i bought Pathfinder Beginners Box and its ok, nice map, the adventure is average, d&d Mines of Phandelver is a better adventure.
I helped GM kids tables at gen con using pathfinder basic box set .... little kids ( ages 6-10) they picked up the rules within 15 minutes on average... these 2 products are so closely alike its kinda silly.. it really boils down do you need the extra material that comes with pathfinder set...
Okay, I've been roleplaying off and on since the 80's (started with D&D) but one thing that kind of bugs me: why do so many counters have the exact same pictures on the front and the back? Shouldn't the back image be the back of the character/monster? If not shouldn't it just be blank. Why put the front on both sides?
Most likely because its easier to produce..and then they font pay a artist for 2 pieces of artwork... thete usrd to be a 3rd party company years ago who did awesome flat token with one side monster..and other side was the monster's corpse so it could be flipped over after combat
***** Oh yeah I understand about that. I'm working on a game of my own and I've priced artists and it's not a pretty sight. The ones who are any good KNOW they're good and ask for the moon. The ones who are more affordable are, to put it gently, just not that good. I would seem confusing to me to have the same image on both sides and I could see the less honest player arguing about which way his character is facing ("no I'm not facing that Medusae that's my back"). I've been experimenting with home made ones (just printed a batch yesterday) and I decided, since I'm using Hero Machine 3.0 to do my character images and can't really do back, to leave the backside blank. Dead monsters on the other side. That sound cool. Ideally (when/if I ever reach the publication stage) I'd like to do mine double sided with the back of the character on the back but I'm betting that will (as you said before) be cost prohibitive, especially if you plan to give them away online (print your own) or whatever.
***** They are less expensive than miniatures and as much as I would love to paint them I've had enough high school art classes to know I would never get decent results. Add to that, that I'm working on a game of my own and would need characters that I would likely never be able to find in miniature form it just makes sense. That's also why I'm making my own using the character images I'm already making for their character sheets anyway. At least until I get far enough along to hire an artist to do more custom artwork.
+TrinityIce - A few years ago i got some acid on my finger tips ( at work) and it killed my nail bed ( where fingernail grows) .. and it takes a few years to grow back.. it was quite painful
I my times there was Warhammer Fantasy Role Play. No miniatures, no maps. I just read whole rulebook then started to run games as GM. What's so hard in it? Do people really need this beginner crap? You pay for it, run adventure and then what? Pay for full game? I don't understand this idea: Buy a beginner box and you will learn how to play rpgs. Money leeches. I wrote my own set of rules that I can tailor - change skill, weapon, armour names - to any genre I like.
well technically it is a lite version of the game system .. so it is great for kids and folks who are newer to gaming systems... the paizo set comes with 4 mini adventures and then there are 6 i believe more that you can download for free. I agree that they are not a great value say for adults ( or gamers who already know how to play ) .. but for a quick ,easy to learn set for kids.. its not bad
I learned also by just reading the 2nd edition players handbook for D&D.. and then we payed.. it took some time before i used some of the rules.. but we learned as we went..
age or maturity level.. pathfinder box set can take you from level 1-8 .. i think the free download from wotc will let someone play similarly . I ran a game at Gen con for children ( i think most were about 6yrs old-11.. they all picked up the rules very easily )
Probably same for me if it comes to learning rules but I had to finish WFRP first to even consider starting to run a session. Do it well or don't do it is my motto. ;) I never liked D&D rules except basics: 6 attributes, d20, lower or equal means success. So I build my own system on that, ripping out classes and levels. A player can create any type of a character he wants. Skills works exactly same way, lower or equal is a success. Now I don't even have to learn or memorise them. 34 pages and you can use any other game stuff you want. Magic from D&D in Dune world, whatever you please. So I have a different approach to those small boxes with nice, shiny and colourful booklets. Right now I'm thinking about buying MYFAROG.
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A couple minor corrections. The Starter Set does come with a blank character sheet, it is on the back of the add you held up. The dice are also machines instead of molded so they should roll more evenly than Chessex dice.
The distinction between the box names was overly nitpicky, the starter box is quite obviously designed for someone who has never played before. The rules are just simpler so there is less hand holding required.
Dont forget the free Basic Rules PDF for 5th ed!
Captain_Hindsight or the free rules from Paizo, Hackmaster, DCC, Castles and crusades....
I had very little experience with tabletop roleplaying games and wanted to get into them. I had friends in a similar boat that wanted to get into it but didn't know where to begin. On a whim I decided I should try being a dm/gm myself and researched these two products. Reviews like this steered me towards Paizo's Beginner Box, and I'm glad for it. Starting from almost no experience and going into GMing my own table, every inclusion of the Beginner Box has been instrumental to the success of my first campaign, and it would have been an immense struggle to overcome the task of being a new gm if any single component were missing.
If, like me, you're trying to go from nil experience to running a full game with some supportive and patient friends, well, I can't recommend Paizo's Beginner Box enough.
Thanks for this review. Your assessment that the D&D Starter set wasn't tuned for beginners so much as it was geared for returning players was a key factor in determining which product was right for me. Not only is the Pathfinder Beginner's Box a tremendous value, but it really is everything you need to get started. I think if I had ended up with the D&D Starter Set, I'd have still felt completely overwhelmed with the task of starting up a roleplaying experience for my friends and I.
Having moved on from the Beginner Box, I'll also go on to say that each and every book I've purchased for Pathfinder has been similarly impressive and I'm overall very happy with Pathfinder in its entirety. If a Beginner Box is supposed to be a starting point towards a greater destination, consider where you'll end up. Beyond the Beginner Box, Pathfinder won't let you down as you get more books and dive deeper into it, at least not from what I've seen so far.
+TheloniusMage Welcome back to gaming ... and congrats on jumping in the Gm chair
Thanks for your insightful comment. I'm in the exact same position and now I will buy the Paizo box over the D&D Starter Set, even though I just want to play D&D 5e. Thanks!
I am new to RPG’s too and tend to agree. I’m finding 5e to be pretty ‘muddy’ with a lot of unanswered questions but Paizo has really taken the time to explain it for true beginners. I’m actually modding the rules into something simpler for my kids (and me). Like how the heck to I apply proficiency bonuses. I still don’t know.
Thank you for this video. Trying to decide which way i want to go for a small game with the family.
Brigham Kindell you are quite welcome....
DMark,
I just wanted to say thanks very much for this video. It was exactly the comparison I was looking for. I've been considering how to get my 12 yr old son started on role-playing, and I think Pathfinder is what we will get. Your explanation of 'starter' vs 'beginner' was a good bit of help. Kids these days are so visually attuned, I think the Paizo product is what will keep his attention long enough to get him going.
For myself, while I have role-played on console/computer game versions of D&D (Baldur's Gate, etc), I never have sat down to a true pencil and paper role playing experience, so this will check off an item on my Bucket List, lol. :D
no problem sir... if you get a chance check out paizos free rpg day scenarios- we be goblins..most kids love those modules
Thank you, this was really helpful! I finally understand the differences and can choose ^_^
you're quite welcome... An whichever one you choose " Enjoy"..
yes it does. if you look at the back of te D&D 5e starter set advert sheet there's a blank character sheet you can photocopy.
Wilco Yaw review copies didnt come with a blank sheet ( had to print them from online pdf)...
It's like choosing between Nintendo and Sega. I'll take both! *Yoink*
Kudos to WoTC for this starter set.. But... I'm all about the Pathfinder. Paizo ftw!
Nice review!
both are nice... but i prefer the paizo one also...
I got out of RPing for a long time, and I have to say- Pathfinder is a lot of fun. Aside from the fact that it converts easily from DnD 3.5, which is great, The Witch class is super duper fun. (Though how it doesnt have Tasha's Hideous Laughter I will never know.)
Either way, Looks like RP just became fun again.
there are a few traits where you can pick up a spell from other class lists...
***** NO, no Mark!
No witch should have to go through life without being able to incapacitate a man with Joker-venom-esque laughter. It is too hilarious to stop the high level fighter by making him fall prone laughing maniacally.
Thank you
you are quite welcome
Right now on amazon the pathfinder box is £7.99 and the DnD box is £16.99
thats a hell of a deal
joebrad27 • I am prime member it is 5.99 for Pathfinder and 7.99 for d&d
we just hit 367 views and still growing.....
20,000+ views Lol.
+Aaron Garza and still going...
Dungeonmaster Mark 40k
Dungeonmaster Mark 45,000+
As a NEW player. Should i buy the starter/beginner sets first? Or could i just dive into the big books? :)
And if so. Wich would you recommend to a new player?
+Dystem if you are new to role playing games in general i would say a box set.... if you have played a little before you can safely pick up pathfinder and D&D with a core rulebook and a bit of reading
me and my friends want to play one of these games, wich one do you recommend me? we want something easy to play and with nice figures
both are great games sets for beginners. The pathfinder set does come with the paper minis and a map to get you started. That way you can get used to the game and combat using miniatures.
I would suggest looking on amazon- right now there are always tons of marked down games. you may be able to find a boxed set for very cheap..
Can anyone weigh in on whether or not the first edition Pathfinder Starter Kit is compatible with the new second edition rules?
it is not.. it is a basic rules set ( its not fully 1e or 2e )
Im confused, are they the same game or what? I ordered the starter books for DnD 5th, but im completely new at RP'ing and have no one to guide or help me.
they are quite similar.. it is easy to transition between the 2 games since they are based on the same core rules and dice ...
Pathfinder is a different game made by a different company, but it is based off an older version of dnd, so while they're not compatible systems, they share a lot of the same core ideas.
Pathfinder Beginner Box is much better value even if it is more expensive. I feel like this box set has many months of gaming and then some where as the Starter Box by itself only has a couple months of gaming at most.
Starter is still a great product but it doesn't measure up to to the Paizo product.
Correct me if I am wrong, but the PF Beginner Box was not a launch product for Pathfinder. I am guessing that once WotC has launched the remaining products we will see something very similar to the PF Beginner Box.
I personally feel as though there is a difference between a starter set and beginner box. One is to launch a new product line and the other is to bring new players into an existing line.
There is also a huge price difference in the 2 products, one is $12 on amazon(.ca) and the other is $37. For the price, you definitely get what you paid for. The module alone is worth $12. On the other hand, I could never justify paying for the PF Beginner Box as I did not see the value at (last time I checked before today) $49.
That is of course just my opinion.
Tim McDonald no it was geared just to beginners=(paizo).... i doubt WOTC will bring out a new boxed set to compete with its own " basic set".. but you never know..
***** "no it was geared just to beginners...."
Are you referring to the PF BB or the D&D SS? I have assumptions on which one you were referring to, but I don't like to reply to things based on assumptions.
Tim McDonald I meant to say i doubt wotc will put out another basic boxed set...... They seem to be full steam ahead with more advanced content coming out.
I think they both have a similiar if not the same purpose. Be a gateway to the main game regardless if someone has or hasn't played a tabletop rpg before. The BB does a better job in my opinion that the D&DS does. Both are great products and I own both. I just think Paizo did a much better job.
Lol you tried to justify why wotc shorted people on the percentile dice by saying it's not used much. I ask you, how often is the d12 used? Yep even less often but it's there. Just one of many reasons why imo paizo has a better product out. Not going into the other reasons, don't want to start an unfriendly debate. With that being said I am going to give 5e a chance like I did 4e and I like your videos. Keep them coming.
I dont justify anything that ole crazy wotc does.... I prefer paizo myself.
Um I'm pretty sure a "Great axe" in d&d 5e uses a d12 for damage rolls...kind of important lol
Could not choose, just bought both.
Good plan...
I read alot of stuff saying that pathfinder is just a the newer simple version of d&d so I just call it d&d pathfinder edition
skythekidgamer pathfinder was born from d&d 3.5..when wotc discontinued the edition Paizo came out with Pathfinder. lots of folks adopted pathfinder b/c it was so similar to 3rd an 3.5 edition.
soooo in otherwords it is a dnd reboot made by a sister company for others to play but then dnd came back and now people see them as 2 different games?
pretty much... Pathfinder did make some improvements to the game system. Some folks call Pathfinder = D&D 3.75 edition. Then Hasbro ( wotc) came out with 4th edition which wasnt as popular ( and many folks felt it was a money grab-make folks buy new books). With 4th edition sales dwindling Pathfinder was easily picked up by 3rd editon players. And it was easy to convert older 3rd edition modules,adventures to pathfinder which helped it sales.Paizo also has a unique business model in making Adventure paths ( 6book campagins).
It's made by a different company. Paizo used to publish material for dnd 3.5, but broke off on their own when it got discontinued. A lot of people didn't like dnd 4e and prefered to stick with the older system. Paizo took the core of 3.5 and reworked into a similar but different system to tap into that market.
As someone who is looking at getting into a tabletop RPG, this video really piqued my interest in the Pathfinder Beginner box. My only question is: how do you arrange who is the GM in a given session? Surely that player must feel somewhat left out, as they don't get to level up/develop their character?
David Williamson normally i would suggest players take turn... some folks like being the GM more than playing. I GM 99% of the time ( which i prefer)
Thanks very much for your input. Also, how tactical is combat in this game? The map has a grid, but is it really used?
David Williamson it really depends on how tactical you wish to make it... The basic rules ( beginners set) doesn't use attacks of opportunity . but does offer some rules such as flanking. You can always choose to not use flanking rules ( a good rule of thumb is to adjust the rules to fit your GM'ing style and find what works best with your players).... I like more tactical combats ( if players are experienced) and it is a great way for really smart creatures like dragons to try and gain a advantage over players ( swooping down and such) .. but you can easily adjust your game to be grid less and downplay the tactical rules...
If anyone sees this comment please tell me what I should get pathfinder or dnd starter set just opinions
both beginner sets are a good value.. the pathfinder set gives you a little more for the price ( nice map and monster tokens) , and the D&D set- gives you a great starter quest and some online content also
Dungeonmaster Mark thx man
Great video but I do not trust Wizards to much anymore. Pathfinder from birth to now has been releasing stuff to round out the 3.5ish set. Wizards in roughly the same time has sold us 3 sets of books (counting the 3.5, 4 if you count the 3.0). I could be wrong on that but i don't think so. So unless your really wanting to see what new D&D is like I would suggest going with Pathfinder. It has most bang for your buck (I don't think dice are "free" its included in price. There is no set without the dice.) the mini punch outs can easily be used in the D&D setting as well if ya decide later to try it out as well. Thanks again for the video kinda stumbled on it gonna check out some more of your stuff.
+Advocatus Diaboli pathfinder came out towards end of 3.5 ... but when WOTC decided to cancel 3.5 paizo picked it up and tweaked a few things...thus pathfinder was born......I know some folks gripe about additional content ( from paizo) but a company has to make money....
I think Paizo has given loads of content its Wizards that are milking people for money. Paizo I think proved that the 3.5 was not all that broke. I still give them major credit for only really needing 1 book to play the game not to mention all the stuff online. Pathfinder box for sure lol
+Advocatus Diaboli wells WOTC's business model has turned into - lets bring out a new edition and re sell the same books over and over.... I think we all understand they need to make money ( but they can do this with new minis, maps, and campaign settings) not milking the players ...
can you please tell me where to find dnd in stores in 2016??
CeeJay! just do a google search for comic and game stores in you area...
did you find any yet ?
***** nah, i decided to just order them. I will look for some stores soon though
which game is better for a fairly smart 9 year old?
it really depends on a persons play style... If you like minis & maps more ( i would go pathfinder) .. if you prefer theater of the mind ( no maps and minis- you may prefer D&D). I think a 9yr old will still have a strong imagination ( so either are valid choices) ... I would prob show him both ( or heck even this video). My little one has used the minis in the pathfinder set to make her own little games before also. If you little one might run their own games ( with his/her friends- i would suggest the pathfinder set also ( it has more content)
I've heard Pathfinder is a tad more complicated than 5e as a system, but since these are both simplified versions of the complete games, I think you could go with either one.
Is there level cap in d&d?
both beginner box sets are geared for first few levels of gameplay.. both systems ( pathfinder and D&D) can go from level 1-20
Curious, I am an avid RPG video gamer and when I head back for break a few of my friends have discussed trying a tabletop. None of us have any experience outside of video games, we know each other well, have a great time together, and are all intelligent and creative. Most of the websites I have seen said to get one person who has played before or it won't go well. I am looking for a 2-6 hour game to play with four noobs. I'd likely run the game and they would play. I would likely continue to play these types of games if I have a good time. The others would likley be a one and done unless an amazing experience.
Which is the best for our purposes; those purposes being a free form fantasy game that is requires no experience and is low on pre-game prep time and mechanics without sacrificing the potential for creative or narrative fun? And if you could, explain why you suggest that game/games. Thanks in advance for any recs
Nicholas Velissaris it helps to have someone who knows the rules ...but I would even with 4 noobs..take it slow and have fun. the most important thing is to have fun.knowledge of the rules will come in time.
paizo has some beginner quests that are geared for quicker games so you can get your feet wet... it gives players and the gms a little bit of time to work into the rules and game system.. i think i have the extra bonus scenarios linked...Ooo it also walks you thru how to transition to the full RPG system..and its free.
paizo.com/products/btpy8uqm?Pathfinder-Roleplaying-Game-Beginner-Box-Transitions
Thank you. This is exactly what I was thinking, but I was unsure if it would be possible without making them heavily prep. Yes, I am aware it is limiting. I am one to get into it much more than the others, and would likely progress to a more time consuming engagement. I am trying to find something immersive that I can prep for, but would not end up with my buddies saying, "sure" then nobody following through until we all meet up to play. So something that requires less pre-game prep for the players and can be more narrative and creative on-the-fly would be ideal. I binge watched titansgrave the last couple of days and something like that would be great...with the exception of the 11 hour game length and full world/character development done before game time. I am hoping for a beginner or starter pack that can accommodate a brief introduction and enjoyable experience without restricting the creative freedom seen in more time demanding
games. I am not even sure if it is possible, which is why I posted.
Thank you for the suggestions and any ideas presented I will research
and see if it works
For ultimate board games beginner, this is waaay too overwhelming :'( books are 140+ pages??
its much easier than you think
5e is very easy to get in this is why the books are smaller
The books can be very big, but unless you're the DM, you only really need to know what your character does and learn as you go.
I Think D&D5 is much more friendly for beginners than Pathfinder where u need weeks an month to understand all the rules. Some friends and me intend start playing D&D or Pathfinder, but i think that we will use d&d despite of its only in english and some players don't understand english well. But i bought Pathfinder Beginners Box and its ok, nice map, the adventure is average, d&d Mines of Phandelver is a better adventure.
I helped GM kids tables at gen con using pathfinder basic box set .... little kids ( ages 6-10) they picked up the rules within 15 minutes on average... these 2 products are so closely alike its kinda silly.. it really boils down do you need the extra material that comes with pathfinder set...
D&D +1
Okay, I've been roleplaying off and on since the 80's (started with D&D) but one thing that kind of bugs me: why do so many counters have the exact same pictures on the front and the back? Shouldn't the back image be the back of the character/monster? If not shouldn't it just be blank. Why put the front on both sides?
Most likely because its easier to produce..and then they font pay a artist for 2 pieces of artwork... thete usrd to be a 3rd party company years ago who did awesome flat token with one side monster..and other side was the monster's corpse so it could be flipped over after combat
***** Oh yeah I understand about that. I'm working on a game of my own and I've priced artists and it's not a pretty sight. The ones who are any good KNOW they're good and ask for the moon. The ones who are more affordable are, to put it gently, just not that good.
I would seem confusing to me to have the same image on both sides and I could see the less honest player arguing about which way his character is facing ("no I'm not facing that Medusae that's my back").
I've been experimenting with home made ones (just printed a batch yesterday) and I decided, since I'm using Hero Machine 3.0 to do my character images and can't really do back, to leave the backside blank.
Dead monsters on the other side. That sound cool. Ideally (when/if I ever reach the publication stage) I'd like to do mine double sided with the back of the character on the back but I'm betting that will (as you said before) be cost prohibitive, especially if you plan to give them away online (print your own) or whatever.
if you every make them there will probably be a market for them... some folks love the tokens..
***** They are less expensive than miniatures and as much as I would love to paint them I've had enough high school art classes to know I would never get decent results.
Add to that, that I'm working on a game of my own and would need characters that I would likely never be able to find in miniature form it just makes sense.
That's also why I'm making my own using the character images I'm already making for their character sheets anyway. At least until I get far enough along to hire an artist to do more custom artwork.
whats up with ur nails?
+TrinityIce - A few years ago i got some acid on my finger tips ( at work) and it killed my nail bed ( where fingernail grows) .. and it takes a few years to grow back.. it was quite painful
Damn...
I my times there was Warhammer Fantasy Role Play. No miniatures, no maps. I just read whole rulebook then started to run games as GM. What's so hard in it? Do people really need this beginner crap? You pay for it, run adventure and then what? Pay for full game? I don't understand this idea: Buy a beginner box and you will learn how to play rpgs. Money leeches. I wrote my own set of rules that I can tailor - change skill, weapon, armour names - to any genre I like.
well technically it is a lite version of the game system .. so it is great for kids and folks who are newer to gaming systems... the paizo set comes with 4 mini adventures and then there are 6 i believe more that you can download for free.
I agree that they are not a great value say for adults ( or gamers who already know how to play ) .. but for a quick ,easy to learn set for kids.. its not bad
I learned also by just reading the 2nd edition players handbook for D&D.. and then we payed.. it took some time before i used some of the rules.. but we learned as we went..
What do you mean by kids? The age range? And how much you can level up with a beginner box D&D or Pathfinder?
age or maturity level.. pathfinder box set can take you from level 1-8 .. i think the free download from wotc will let someone play similarly .
I ran a game at Gen con for children ( i think most were about 6yrs old-11.. they all picked up the rules very easily )
Probably same for me if it comes to learning rules but I had to finish WFRP first to even consider starting to run a session. Do it well or don't do it is my motto. ;)
I never liked D&D rules except basics: 6 attributes, d20, lower or equal means success. So I build my own system on that, ripping out classes and levels. A player can create any type of a character he wants. Skills works exactly same way, lower or equal is a success. Now I don't even have to learn or memorise them. 34 pages and you can use any other game stuff you want. Magic from D&D in Dune world, whatever you please. So I have a different approach to those small boxes with nice, shiny and colourful booklets. Right now I'm thinking about buying MYFAROG.