Post originally by tom zunder at 2004-08-31 06:52:21
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Oh I know it's pedantic.
Linux is a core kernel of an operating system, FreeBSD is a core kernel of an operating system. Linux then adds layers of compiled GNU software released under GPL (open software). Free BSD is not quite the same since it's not GPL, but basically they are the same conceptually: Unix clones.
Thus Free BSD isn't a subset or a little brother to Linux. It's the same but different.
In fact the differences are more to do with popularity. So GURPS might be Linux and HERO FreeBSD.
Good and concise review of HERO, it reminded me why I have outgrown that detail and shouldn't be tempted back!
Post originally by Buzz at 2004-08-31 08:00:57
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<i>However, a mere (+1/4) notation doesn't make it clear that that’s what you’re doing – you’re not adding a quarter point to the point cost – you’re adding 25% of the original cost. Since the notation is not "standard math" it is impossible for those even with PhDs in mathematics to comprehend what exactly is meant by those fractions at first glance and, unable to comprehend the process by which the final number was derived, the new player is left to imagine daunting hoops through which one must jump to create a new character.</i>
Why does "first glance" matter? Sidekick explains what this notation means. How is it confusing if you've read the book? Aren't things like "HT 12" and "Ref +4" just as confusing at first glance? Heck, Sidekick even gives you a table that does all your Advantage and Limitations calculations for you.
I also don't know if I agree that GURPS is easier to tweak than Sidekick. I wonder if your extensive experience with GURPS has biased you a bit, Funky.
This was a pretty darn good review, otherwise. I think you're a bit harsh, and I don't agree with everything, but it's well-written and you explain basic concepts of the system quite well.
Post originally by Lord Liaden at 2004-08-31 09:26:11
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In his review Funksaw said:
"GURPS Lite is 32 pages long but contains pretty much everything you need to run the GURPS system, although not everything you need to run every possible game under the GURPS system. Indeed, in this respect, many of the features of the "full" GURPS Basic Set can be seen as "modules" to GURPS Lite - and every GURPS supplement is, essentially, a module. (Here's your magic module, here's your psionics module, here's your space module, etc.) As if to prove the case in point – many of the GURPS supplements can be used solely with GURPS Lite due to the designed modularity of GURPS. Sidekick is 128 pages long and still leaves out key parts of the core HERO system - HERO is just a system that's designed to work together as a cohesive whole and can't really be redacted to a simpler form."
Some of how this comparison is expressed is IMO a bit misleading. The GURPS Basic Set does provide you with all the basics of the system, but not everything you NEED to run many genres. For example, if you want a fantasy campaign including magic, you NEED to buy the "magic module" - you can't use the Basic Set to devise it yourself. Sidekick allows you to create your own magic system, psionics, space stuff, etc. Or you can buy one of the Hero Games supplements that prebuilds these things for you... but none of them are essential.
I have to disagree that Sidekick "leaves out key parts of the core HERO system." Sidekick excludes a few of the more complex elements such as specific Powers and Skills (noted in a sidebar in the book), but the vast majority are included, and none of the core mechanics needed to play the game are left out. 90% of what's in all the published supplements for the full HERO 5th ruleset can be used with Sidekick alone.
Sidekick is intended as an introduction to the full HERO System rather than a stand-alone product, yet on its own is actually far more usable as the basis for any kind of HERO game than GURPS Lite on its own is for any kind of GURPS game.
Post originally by Eclectic Wave at 2004-08-31 10:23:54
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Rather Harsh review, but it is a good review. I don't agree with the assesment of advantages/disadvantage, if you are good at fractions it's is obvious at first glance. Also, these day who doesn't have a caculator?
On the other hand, Hero is so hyped on a Balanced playing field, it does get a little anal about stuff. If you are just a Roleplayer it can be duanting. If you play wargames (especialy minatures) then it's no problem. I've always viewed Hero as a detailed Minatures battle game first, then a RPG.
Post originally by Lord Liaden at 2004-08-31 13:30:24
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I agree, Shanya, that would be a better comparison. However, the way that Funksaw phrased it makes it sound as though he is equating the 32 pages of GURPS Lite with the 128 pages of Sidekick, and finds the latter to be lacking in comparison. That may not have been his intention at all; but in that case I believe it is as I said a bit misleading.
Post originally by Buzz at 2004-08-31 14:06:13
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Lord Liaden wrote:
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<i>I have to disagree that Sidekick "leaves out key parts of the core HERO system."</i>
Especially in a comparison to GURPS Lite, which, as of 4th ed., contains only basic chargen and combat rules. There's nothing about powers, psionics, or magic in it at all. But, hey, what do you want for nothin'?
If anything, it's only some "non-key" parts that got left out of Sidekick, which is the whole point.
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