As a general rule I encourage everyone not to compare scores as much as they can, but to instead rely on the content of a review and any review discussion to try and make a purchasing decision.
AGON vs. Scion is very much an apples vs. oranges sort of deal. You could definitely run AGON in order to accomplish what Scion is after, and there are even rules for adapting the mechanics for modern play, but the feel and gameplay is going to be very different. AGON has fewer rules, which is both good and bad. Mechanics can, after all, be inspiring and encourage certain themes in play. The competitive element of AGON may not be suited to some players, as there's always a little incentive to make sure your buddy doesn't perform quite as well as you do. Combat, both physical and mental (poetry contests, etc.) is probably more tactical in AGON than in Scion. On the other hand, I think Scion probably does a better job of stressing a variety of non-physical capabilities. AGON is very much Greek in theme, with foot races, music matches, and other competitive demonstrations of ability being given much more focus than what you would find in Scion.
At an absolute minimum I'd say that if your group tends to like games more like Exalted and World of Darkness then you'll gravitate more towards Scion. If they prefer lots of different weapons, supernatural powers, or large dice pools then they'll probably prefer Scion. If you have a group that likes rules lighter games that are a little more abstract, or that like board-game-like tactics in their combat, then AGON may be a better fit.
Is that helpful? I know it's pretty general. If you have any more specific questions, please feel free to ask.
You mention contests and battles, but what if your character wants to accomplish something that is neither? Are there any rules for this, or is the game literally just one contest after another, in terms of rules at least?
You mention contests and battles, but what if your character wants to accomplish something that is neither? Are there any rules for this, or is the game literally just one contest after another, in terms of rules at least?
Ash
Everything is a contest or a battle. Inanimate objects are stated up and rolled. One example in the book is a river, which rolls against the players. Those who beat the river cross without a problem, those who fail may have been battered by the current, swept downstream, etc.
If I want to translate a book, that's a contest. It's me vs. the book, we'll roll to see who wins. Losing doesn't even have to reflect failing to get past the obstacle all together, so perhaps I translate it but I mentally exhaust myself doing so.
If I want to translate a book, that's a contest. It's me vs. the book, we'll roll to see who wins. Losing doesn't even have to reflect failing to get past the obstacle all together, so perhaps I translate it but I mentally exhaust myself doing so.
Minor threadjack: You know, I'm going to carry that mental image and smile to myself all day.
Take that, vile report! You will not carry the field today!
Great review! I have been interested in AGON for a while now and this makes it a must-buy purchase. I have greatly enjoyed Mazes & Minotaurs and it sounds like AGON covers somewhat different ground and from a different angle.
Very cool. Thank you very much. You did a great job breaking down everything I want to see in a detailed review.
Everything is a contest or a battle. Inanimate objects are stated up and rolled. One example in the book is a river, which rolls against the players. Those who beat the river cross without a problem, those who fail may have been battered by the current, swept downstream, etc.
I see, that makes sense. Ok. I'm not particularly attracted to this game, more from its subject material than its system, but it sounds interesting nonetheless. Maybe if I catch it in a bargain bin sometime I will take a look.
Linear Mode
