LFR schedule is now up and live.
DDM schedule is partially up the rest to go live soon.
Pre-reg should start in the next 7-10 days.
You can read more about DDXP (dates, location) here
The DDXP wwbsite is now live (mostly - some parts are still waiting on a Rez spell) - http://ddxp.baldmangames.com
Thanks
Thanks for any help,
Shawn.
I've heard about previous cons sponsoring a "Dungeon Delve" event involving multiple rounds of 30 minute combat encounters, with the prize being tokens redeemable for promo cards. Is this happening at D&D Experience? Any more info available on what the prizes are (for instance, if there are other things that the tokens are redeemable for)? Will the promo cards that were available at earlier conventions this year still be available at D&D Experience? I'd like to try a Spellscarred character, so I'd definitely like to know if that creation card will be one of the prizes.
Other than special mods only available at conventions and the usual core and regional 4e mods generally available, what other kinds of events can I expect? (I've never played D&D Minis, so I'm not sure if I'd be interested in the tournament. But if there are, say, events revolving around playtests of preview material, I'd definitely be interested.)
With D&D Experience being only a few months away, I'd like to plan a trip from Florida to Indiana as early as possible. Having some info up front would help me to decide if there are enough things I'd be interested in to make it worth attending.
I only started playing Living adventures just before 4e came out. Wasn't overly thrilled with completely replacing 3.5e, although I was willing to give 4e a chance. I discovered an online venue for playing 4e LFR only about a month ago, then finally took the plunge and tested for Herald Level GM. So...I'm curious enough to consider attending a D&D convention but I definitely want to know more before I do.
As a final comment, there really should be a link to this thread on the D&D Experience page.
Damon
Never having been to a gaming con before (been to anime cons, though, if that helps), what can I expect?
In short - it's a D&D convention, so you can expect a LOT of D&D.
I've heard about previous cons sponsoring a "Dungeon Delve" event involving multiple rounds of 30 minute combat encounters, with the prize being tokens redeemable for promo cards. Is this happening at D&D Experience? Any more info available on what the prizes are (for instance, if there are other things that the tokens are redeemable for)? Will the promo cards that were available at earlier conventions this year still be available at D&D Experience? I'd like to try a Spellscarred character, so I'd definitely like to know if that creation card will be one of the prizes.
While it's too early to be certain about a lot of things, it's a near certainty that the Dungeon Delve will be at DDXP09. Traditionally the Delve offers up alternate-paint minis (a different one each day), Promotional RPGA Reward cards, and usually one or two "special" items - at GenCon it was T-shirts, at DDXP08 it was an auction for artwork, etc.
What, specifically, will be available at DDXP is seldom (if ever) announced in advance. They *might* have repeats of the cards from 2008, but so far the trend for 4E has been new show - new cards.
I suspect that's all under Chris Tulach's control, so if you find yourself in Renton, WA - bribe him.
Other than special mods only available at conventions and the usual core and regional 4e mods generally available, what other kinds of events can I expect? (I've never played D&D Minis, so I'm not sure if I'd be interested in the tournament. But if there are, say, events revolving around playtests of preview material, I'd definitely be interested.)
Again, we won't know for sure until the schedule goes up, but the last two DDXPs have had LOTS of D&D Minis play. Draft, Constructed, and usually a sneak peek game previewing whatever the newest "not yet released" set is.
With D&D Experience being only a few months away, I'd like to plan a trip from Florida to Indiana as early as possible. Having some info up front would help me to decide if there are enough things I'd be interested in to make it worth attending.
I only started playing Living adventures just before 4e came out. Wasn't overly thrilled with completely replacing 3.5e, although I was willing to give 4e a chance. I discovered an online venue for playing 4e LFR only about a month ago, then finally took the plunge and tested for Herald Level GM. So...I'm curious enough to consider attending a D&D convention but I definitely want to know more before I do.
If you enjoy the prospect of getting about 12+ hours a day of D&D and/or D&D Minis, plus chances to meet with R&D, hear about what's coming down the pipe, get sneak-peek previews of new content, and even sit down to find R&D running a table for you (in the Delve usually, but sometimes at full 4-hour tables), then DDXP will be for you (based on previous years experiences).
As a final comment, there really should be a link to this thread on the D&D Experience page.
Damon
Good point. I'll hijack his original post and have a link added. Thanks!
Damon
Any news on this?
The hotel still isn't aware of the conference for the reduced rate.
Any news on this?
Uh oh. That OBVIOUSLY means that DDXP won't actually be in Fort Wayne.
Errr...other way 'round. I actually meant a link from the D&D Experience page to this thread. Because the D&D/RPGA section of the site links only to the D&D forums and NOT to the RPGA forums, I didn't even know this thread was here until yesterday.
Damon
This thread *wasn't* here until yesterday. ;)
I'll see if Solice can get a link added to the original webpage, but that's as far as my powers go.
Uh oh. That OBVIOUSLY means that DDXP won't actually be in Fort Wayne.
I have signed contracts with the hotel and convention center sitting right next to me. DDXP will be in Fort Wayne on the dates listed. I'll contact the hotel this morning and see why the booking code is not live yet.
Dave C
I have signed contracts with the hotel and convention center sitting right next to me. DDXP will be in Fort Wayne on the dates listed. I'll contact the hotel this morning and see why the booking code is not live yet.
Dave C
Oh, I had no doubt. I was just poking fun at the previous poster who made a similar statement to me when I got stuck with a $50 cancellation fee at the Pittsburgh hotel. Speaking of which, I was able to get that refunded, though I had to be on the phone with the Hyatt people for about half an hour to get it done.
Oh, I had no doubt. I was just poking fun at the previous poster who made a similar statement to me when I got stuck with a $50 cancellation fee at the Pittsburgh hotel. Speaking of which, I was able to get that refunded, though I had to be on the phone with the Hyatt people for about half an hour to get it done.
Well I already booked my room at the Hilton and verified that I could cancel with no fee prior to the conference should something happen. Just waiting for the code so I get the real conference price.
What is the Hotel Discount code? I tried DDXP
Thanks
SammyD
Looking forward to some heavy LFR gaming!
What is the Hotel Discount code? I tried DDXP
Thanks
SammyD
I just called the hotel front desk. The DDXP code is active for the show at $109 for single/double and $119 for triple/quad. The rate should be good for 2 days prior and after the show for those showing early or leaving late.
I just called and had my reservation updated, so it's all working!
See you all there!
Dave, any idea what the group name is for DDXP with Hilton? I picked the link and logged onto the website, but the best rate there was $134. John Lynch
Right now I believe you need to call for the room rate. A link for online rooming block sign-up is being worked on. As soon as I have it I will post it up here.
Dave
<-- anxiously awaiting DM volunteer links.... ;)
In which case, now's probably as good a time as ever to promote the "Dave's Shows" Yahoo Group where Dave announces judge sign-ups as soon as he has info to share.
There's been nothing shared on DDXP09 yet, so if you sign-up soon you too can be in the "first to know" group (as the RPGA/WotC websites tend to have a day or more of lagtime).
http://games.groups.yahoo.com/group/daveshows/
If you're afraid of spam - don't worry. This group is announcement only. You won't get anything from anyone other than Dave C.
Thanks.
Anyone get the hotel code yet? I'd really prefer not to have to call the hotel.
Thanks.
Not until we hear back from Dave.
I hope to have the framework of the DDXP website live in a few days (with content and registration live by months end). Once that is up the online registration part will be active so you can get a room in the hotel block at the group rate without calling.
Dave
http://ddxp.baldmangames.com
Event schedule and ticket sales should be live by the end of the month. Expect more on dealers and show history this week.
Dave C
DDXP Senior GM and Coordinator
Sincerely
Lucas Amodio
Dragonfire Laser Crafts
So who would I contact about trying to be a dealer at the event?
Sincerely
Lucas Amodio
Dragonfire Laser Crafts
Unless someone official posts otherwise, Dave Christ would be the person to contact. You can PM him here on the forums as "Wavester" (the post before yours).
There may also be some contact info on the DDXP website he's assembling: http://baldmangames.com/ddxp/
So who would I contact about trying to be a dealer at the event?
Sincerely
Lucas Amodio
Dragonfire Laser Crafts
You should contact me [email=wavester@sbcglobal.net]here[/email]
I've been trying to get your contact info from Chris as I knew you were interested but we've crossed wires lately.
Dave
First: The "Dave Shows" mailing list recently received the following notice:
Events should be up in a week or so with pre-reg and judge sign-ups a
week or so after that. So keep your eyes peeled.
Second: DDXP Discounted Room Reservations are now available online. More information is available on the Baldmangames website, here.
So check it out
http://ddxp.baldmangames.com
Dave C
I was hoping to introduce a new player or two to Living Forgotten Realms at DDXP... I take it the event list is complete, and other than the Library play slots there will be no level 1-4 games?
That is correct. The event list is complete, and DDXP is highlighting games for the 4-7 level band. This is partly because DDXP isn't a big show for "new" players - excepting last year and people wanting to preview 4E.
Level 1-4 adventures will be available in the library, it just requires your group to find (or provide) a judge to run.
So that is at least 3 slots, plus the D&D delve (which will kill a slot or two and probably your character), seminars, and the D&D Conv special with pre-gen 15th level toons. Dealers on top of that and there is still plenty to do.
Dave C
Seriously, why alienate newbies? PLEASE rethink your offerings, we were really looking forward to this.
John
WHOA! terrible idea! My group (mostly) newbie rpga people were going to come, but now it seems that it is worthless for us to make the trip.
Seriously, why alienate newbies? PLEASE rethink your offerings, we were really looking forward to this.
John
Why alienate your core player base? DDXP is a core RPGA show. We are aimming at making our core player base happy. Our core player base wants to play their primary characters as much as possible with thier friends. That's our target. Gencon and Origins are acquisition type shows and our schedule reflects that. DDXP is not. It's our show to talk about the future, meet with friends, and play games in the cold cold snow.
If you're a 7th and up Character you will have 8 rounds to play at the show
If you are a 4th-6th character you will have 7 rounds to play (and more then that if you hit 7th in those 7 rounds)
If you are a 1st-3rd character you will have at least 3 rounds to play (and more once again if you hit 4th in those rounds).
This does not count the D&D Conv Special 'Beyond the Door' - which is playable by anybody or runs in the D&D Delve for special LFR items.
If in off slots we have groups of lower levels and a free DM prep'd for something they have not played we'll get them sat down and playing. Our goal is people playing and having fun as much as possible. I just cannot assign and schedule in judges for events that I do not see being anywhere close to as in demand as what is on the schedule right now.
Dave C
DDXP 2009 Senior GM and Coordinator
One more scheduling question: The Core special (Zhent's Ancient Shadows) is listed as two round continuous play. The event grid just shows green dots across the board for it. How does that work in the schedule? If you register for a slot, do you just assume it continues into the next slot? What if you pick a start time in the 7 PM slot... does it run past midnight, or are you automatically registered for round 2 in the next day's 8 AM slot?
That is my bad. The second dot (any even numbered slot) should be a different color. I must have called the wrong image. I can fix that.
Tickets for the LFR special are $12 (2 rnds). It starts in every odd numbered slot (1,3,5,7,9) and thus runs 5 times. It finishes in the even number slot that follows. If that is the following day then the table will break at Midnight and resume at 8am the following morning (same table, players, and judge). You only need to register for it once (one ticket = play the whole thing).
Dave C
DDXP 2009 Senior GM and Coordinator
If that is the following day then the table will break at Midnight and resume at 8am the following morning (same table, players, and judge).
Dave C
DDXP 2009 Senior GM and Coordinator
What? No more "until 5 AM" craziness? Why? Dave, how am I going to top my sleeplessness record from GenCon (hmm... maybe I just answered "why")?
Why alienate your core player base? DDXP is a core RPGA show. We are aimming at making our core player base happy. Our core player base wants to play their primary characters as much as possible with thier friends. That's our target. Gencon and Origins are acquisition type shows and our schedule reflects that. DDXP is not. It's our show to talk about the future, meet with friends, and play games in the cold cold snow.
If you're a 7th and up Character you will have 8 rounds to play at the show
If you are a 4th-6th character you will have 7 rounds to play (and more then that if you hit 7th in those 7 rounds)
If you are a 1st-3rd character you will have at least 3 rounds to play (and more once again if you hit 4th in those rounds).
This does not count the D&D Conv Special 'Beyond the Door' - which is playable by anybody or runs in the D&D Delve for special LFR items.
If in off slots we have groups of lower levels and a free DM prep'd for something they have not played we'll get them sat down and playing. Our goal is people playing and having fun as much as possible. I just cannot assign and schedule in judges for events that I do not see being anywhere close to as in demand as what is on the schedule right now.
Dave C
DDXP 2009 Senior GM and Coordinator
Ok, so this is geared more toward the inside crowd, I get that. I guess I was hoping to see that there were offerings for people who did join up at Gencon and Origins but haven't played their character that much. (because that describes my group)
Having missed games in 3.5 era because I missed level muster makes me hesitant to reccomend to our group to go. I know scheduling is tough for conventions, and finding DM's for all the players is like pulling teeth, so you have my sympathy.
So, if we do come what are the odds that we will find a GM to run us from modules in the library? Because after the convention special and the delve, on thursday, that leaves friday and saturday all day long waiting til 7PM for a game. There's only so much 3DA that my group can play before they come for me with sharp knives...
Ok, so this is geared more toward the inside crowd, I get that. I guess I was hoping to see that there were offerings for people who did join up at Gencon and Origins but haven't played their character that much. (because that describes my group)
Having missed games in 3.5 era because I missed level muster makes me hesitant to reccomend to our group to go. I know scheduling is tough for conventions, and finding DM's for all the players is like pulling teeth, so you have my sympathy.
So, if we do come what are the odds that we will find a GM to run us from modules in the library? Because after the convention special and the delve, on thursday, that leaves friday and saturday all day long waiting til 7PM for a game. There's only so much 3DA that my group can play before they come for me with sharp knives...
Dave hasn't started signing up judges yet, so I don't know that he can give estimates at this time.
Knowing Dave, however, he'll have HQ doing everything we can to beg, plead, and coerce people into judging at every possible turn.
Ok, so this is geared more toward the inside crowd, I get that. I guess I was hoping to see that there were offerings for people who did join up at Gencon and Origins but haven't played their character that much. (because that describes my group)
Having missed games in 3.5 era because I missed level muster makes me hesitant to reccomend to our group to go. I know scheduling is tough for conventions, and finding DM's for all the players is like pulling teeth, so you have my sympathy.
So, if we do come what are the odds that we will find a GM to run us from modules in the library? Because after the convention special and the delve, on thursday, that leaves friday and saturday all day long waiting til 7PM for a game. There's only so much 3DA that my group can play before they come for me with sharp knives...
I think the odds are good. Are they 100% no but I won't blow sunshine smoke up your backside (unless you buy the all exclusive sunshine package - on sale soon). My goal is people sitting and playing as much as possible.
I have a question about the events being offered at D&DXP. I noticed that there are no Waterdeep modules being offered, which seems strange because the con is taking place within the boundary of the WAterdeep "bureaucratic" region. I realize that "bureaucratic" regions aren't as important anymore compared to living greyhawk, but I would think that waterdeep dm's would like to showcase our region and adventures.
Second, I realize that organizing a con like this is a big undertaking and I appreciate all the work you put in. I would think that it would make sense to offer some first level adventures. Maybe offer one 1-4 band adventure each slot, and each adventure once for the con, and cancel them if you don't get the pre-regs to run it. I know I played my second game of RPGA of all time at DDXP 2007 (went to compete in the DDM championship) and had a blast. I realize there is more that goes into setting up and running a con than I could possibly imagine, but if this is a possibility it might help to get more people to the con.
Finally, and let me know if this can't be answered yet (or you won't answer it until the judging info goes live), but I am interested in DMing at XP this year, but likely wouldn't be able to show up until late thursday night/friday morning. Would this preclude me from DMing?
Thanks!
Wavester,
I have a question about the events being offered at D&DXP. I noticed that there are no Waterdeep modules being offered, which seems strange because the con is taking place within the boundary of the WAterdeep "bureaucratic" region. I realize that "bureaucratic" regions aren't as important anymore compared to living greyhawk, but I would think that waterdeep dm's would like to showcase our region and adventures.
From the LFR Waterdeep Mailing List:
Regions are rotated. Waterdeep 1-1 was one of the Gencon mods so it’ll come back around for it’s shot next year. Every region deserves a chance to run at a big show.
Dave
Second, I realize that organizing a con like this is a big undertaking and I appreciate all the work you put in. I would think that it would make sense to offer some first level adventures. Maybe offer one 1-4 band adventure each slot, and each adventure once for the con, and cancel them if you don't get the pre-regs to run it. I know I played my second game of RPGA of all time at DDXP 2007 (went to compete in the DDM championship) and had a blast. I realize there is more that goes into setting up and running a con than I could possibly imagine, but if this is a possibility it might help to get more people to the con.
Ultimately this is up to Dave to answer, but it's been discussed elsewhere (here on the forums and in the LFR mailing list).
Put simply, based on my observations of GMing previous shows - to run a module in a given slot, you have to assume that it's going to fill 2-3 tables. That means you need 2-3 GMs for those tables. Since there are three slots a day and few of us are crazy enough to DM every slot every day, you're looking at ~6 judges to run a single module.
That's if Dave offers just, say, CORE1-1 or WATE1-1. It's preferred that a judge at a show only prep one or two mods - the emphasis being on running a quality slot, not a judge running a quantity of mods.
If Dave were to offer all 15(?) of the mods as you suggest - even for only one slot each, he'd need a minimum of 45 judges to do it "right" - and those are judges much better conserved for the mods that the bulk of the DDXP attendees are going to want to play. IE - the new mods, and not the mods that these particular attendees are likely to have already seen/played/run.
That's before you account for needing table space to dedicate, and other decisions that have to be made that go along with running events in dedicated slots.
With Open Play slots these remain options, but options at a GMs discretion.
Finally, and let me know if this can't be answered yet (or you won't answer it until the judging info goes live), but I am interested in DMing at XP this year, but likely wouldn't be able to show up until late thursday night/friday morning. Would this preclude me from DMing?
Thanks!
Again, I'm not Dave, but I've been running tables at shows for a few years now.
What traditionally happens is that Dave will announce here (and on his Dave Shows mailing list) that judge sign-up are live or going live in the next 24 hours.
When you go to the website provided you can choose what slots you'd like to run, and what mod(s) you'd like to run in them. (IE slot -4 CORM 1-2, Slot 5 CORM 1-2, etc).
If you can pick and choose available slots in a schedule that pleases you - great! We're happy to have you. Of course, the sooner you sign up, the more likely you are to get the slots you want.
Fri/Sat are the heaviest demand days, when we need to fill the most tables, so while you may not be able to make it until those days - the shouldn't be a problem at all.
Is it going to be possible to make characters of the appropriate level for these events, or to use pregenerated ones?
The LFR events will be played with LFR rules.
That includes the need to have an appropriately leveled character to play in the module.
The Delve and the "Classic-style" module will include pre-gen characters.
And thanks for the info on the judging, I'll be looking for the posting about volunteering to judge.
Thanks for the info wolfstar, makes sense about not being able to schedule those events in the way I imagined it. As I said, I haven't ever tried to set up anything as complicated as a con.
And thanks for the info on the judging, I'll be looking for the posting about volunteering to judge.
If Dave doesn't post here, I'll post the info here myself.
The last word we had from Dave indicated that this was likely going to be the week.
I hope to have pre-reg open by this weekend. We have a huge article going up on the Wizards website. I want that to be up before we go live so everybody knows it is happening and it's fair across the board.
Judge sign-ups should be live next week. Same website, slightly different format, but nothing that anybody who can actually get to the website cannot figure out. We have a limited number of free room spots for judges who run enough. So those go fast so keep an eye open.
Room layout is done. I think it is going to look awesome and be awesome (I like awesome and I cannot use cool anymore since 4th edition killed that word during the previews earlier this year LOL).
See Dustin is quick. Quick like a cheetah. He is on all my other various lists so cross-posts faster then I do.
Quick but not bright. Still, at least I'm good at something.
I hope to have pre-reg open by this weekend. We have a huge article going up on the Wizards website. I want that to be up before we go live so everybody knows it is happening and it's fair across the board.
Judge sign-ups should be live next week. Same website, slightly different format, but nothing that anybody who can actually get to the website cannot figure out. We have a limited number of free room spots for judges who run enough. So those go fast so keep an eye open.
For those that aren't familiar with the way volunteer GMs are rewarded, the typical plan (based on how Dave ran things at GenCon) is:
- Every two slots = 1 "point" - Points can be used to receive rulebooks, minis, and other goodies.
- Four slots = Free admission to the show - DDXP badges cost $20 this year
- Seven+ slots = Free stay. Officially you get 1/4 of a room. Dave's a nice guy though, and he tries to keep it to 2-3 people per room where possible.
- Twelve slots = undocumented, but you get to rub Dave's head. Just don't tell anyone. Shhhhh.
I'm sure the article that's going up on the RPGA website will have more (and more accurate) details.
Room layout is done. I think it is going to look awesome and be awesome (I like awesome and I cannot use cool anymore since 4th edition killed that word during the previews earlier this year LOL).
Go ahead, Dave, break out "Winger-tastic" like we all know you want to.
The article on rpga.com says registration starts tomorrow (Friday). No mention of that on the DDXP web site. Is that registration date and time correct?
There is no mention because I wanted to see the actual article hit the Wotc website before I updated the DDXP site. Their track record on things going up on time is not the best lately and I did not want to post it one place and then have it go up late or say something different. ddxp.baldmangames.com is being updated as I type (well not actually as I type but if I could use two keyboards at once it would be and that would rock)
"If you bought 6 tickets to a single event then you should have bought 6 badges as well. Easy math."
Does that mean that if I'm planning to buy three tickets to each event for my group, then I have to buy their badges for them as well?
From the DDXP website:
"If you bought 6 tickets to a single event then you should have bought 6 badges as well. Easy math."
Does that mean that if I'm planning to buy three tickets to each event for my group, then I have to buy their badges for them as well?
Well if you are buying their tickets then why would you not be buying their badges? Kinda of goes hand in hand in my mind. If you really don't want to then they can buy them onsite. They can just stand in line there to do so. Either way they need it to use the tickets.
Was just perusing the events on the site...
For the LFR Special, third session, it's listing slots 5&7, insteat of 5&6...is that a typo (I am assuming yes...)
Just checking, as it would affect playing/judging schedules and how to plan...
Atis K.
P.S. For those of us holding out for judging over playing, when do sign-ups start?
Judge sign-ups should hopefully go live Sunday or Monday.
Wave did you break it already?? :D
How sign-up works has changed from the Consupport days so please make sure to read everything on the website before filling out the forms. Everybody must fill out those forms (even if you are an HQ type).
Thanks
Everybody must fill out those forms (even if you are an HQ type).
/squint
Oh-ho. Trying to trip us up, eh?
Any chance more low-level (1-4) slots of LFR will open up. I've got a few buddies that I am going to have to leave behind because there characters are of insufficient level for them to have much to do.
I will be driving out to XP, so any information about the convention would be helpful.
Thanks.
If you have a specific question I can answer it here as well.
Thanks
Have you looked at the wiki recently?
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Now it's missing. I'd like to contribute to the wiki. Just ban the spammers!
If you have a specific question I can answer it here as well.
Thanks
Here's one, Dave:
Is there a list of WotC folk who are confirmed to be in attendance (outside of Chris Tulach, mentioned on the site?)
-Sutro
Here's one, Dave:
Is there a list of WotC folk who are confirmed to be in attendance (outside of Chris Tulach, mentioned on the site?)
-Sutro
There is a total of 5 Wotc folk confirmed for the show.
Chris Tulach - RPGA Content Manager
Stephen Radney-Macfarland - R&D
Bart Carroll - R&D
Chris Sims - R&D
Mike Mearls - Head of R&D something or another
I think I got those right.
Thought I had it locked down till a later date but guess not. Fixed and thanks for pointing it out.
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Now it's missing. I'd like to contribute to the wiki. Just ban the spammers!
I e-mailed Dave about this.
I hadn't seen the spam, so I too was concerned that it was down.
With DDXP almost on top of us, Dave needs to focus on getting the show ready and running smoothly for now. So, he's disabled the wiki until he has time to focus on, well, making it run spam-free.
I'm not sure, given Dave's always-busy schedule, when that might be. . . but I suspect if we all send him gift cards to a jewelry store, he might be able to earn enough Wife Points™ to dedicate time to the task.
If you plan on creating your own character, now would be a good time to update.
I asked a friend of mine who is a judge and he went on the judges forums to ask if there is a specific level I should make when the adventure says 4-7 or 7-10 and he was told since this is a living adventure you cannot create a character higher than first level, you must level up through playing only. The exact quote was "LFR is a living system, which means all player's characters start out at first level. You can't "create" a higher level character just to play a higher level LFR mod. You have to have played the character to reach that level over time.".
Does this mean if you do not play in an RPGA group and adventure at home you cannot participate in the convention adventures. Heck I will run pregens if necessary I get so little opportunity to play.If true I suppose it frees up a lot of my time for delve and minis.
They are correct. You cannot just make a character of level X for a LFR game. It must start at 1st and work its way up. Having said that we have three slots of open LFR gaming (slot 3, 6, and 9) where low groups will be playing and will run lower level pickup games each slot as long as we have tables of those looking for them.
Thanks, as you were posting this I heard back the same thing from a followup question on the judges board. I had played the faction adventures in previous conventions and stupidly thought the new LFR ran the same way. Oh well I guess I will sell back my tickets at the convention and see if I can get into the low level ones.
Thanks, as you were posting this I heard back the same thing from a followup question on the judges board. I had played the faction adventures in previous conventions and stupidly thought the new LFR ran the same way. Oh well I guess I will sell back my tickets at the convention and see if I can get into the low level ones.
FWIW we're hoping that the RPGA Member's Meeting on Saturday (at the show) will include an announcement about a new RPGA campaign done in the "D&D Campaigns" style (as Xen'Drik Expeditions was done).
One of the hallmarks of that style of play is a minimum campaign level (and level bumps to go with it). So it isn't a stupid mistake - in fact given the relative popularity of Xen'Drik Expeditions (and Mark of Heros before it) - it's becoming a minorly common one.
Keep your fingers crossed that we get a campaign to better suit you in the near future.
FWIW we're hoping that the RPGA Member's Meeting on Saturday will include an announcement about a new RPGA campaign done in the "D&D Campaigns" style (as Xen'Drik Expeditions was done).
Heh, well now that I have more free time than I had planned I will have to check out the seminar thanks for the info.
Onward Delve
He told me there's free wi-fi throughout, and good cellular reception as well.
I'm hoping that holds true.
Though I have no idea what the actual driving conditions on the road are like, I imagine the state highway that goes from Lexington-Ft. Wayne wouldn't be near as good a bet as driving over to Louisville then heading north all on interstate.
Stay safe and leave with plenty of extra time, it's gonna be hell.
-Sutro
That's cool, though there is no way I'm lugging my laptop around the gaming floor, even if it were smaller than this one. But having it in the room for character updates etc will be nice.
I guess it only matters if there's a printer available
Why alienate your core player base? DDXP is a core RPGA show. We are aimming at making our core player base happy. Our core player base wants to play their primary characters as much as possible with thier friends. That's our target. Gencon and Origins are acquisition type shows and our schedule reflects that. DDXP is not. It's our show to talk about the future, meet with friends, and play games in the cold cold snow.
If you're a 7th and up Character you will have 8 rounds to play at the show
If you are a 4th-6th character you will have 7 rounds to play (and more then that if you hit 7th in those 7 rounds)
If you are a 1st-3rd character you will have at least 3 rounds to play (and more once again if you hit 4th in those rounds).
This does not count the D&D Conv Special 'Beyond the Door' - which is playable by anybody or runs in the D&D Delve for special LFR items.
If in off slots we have groups of lower levels and a free DM prep'd for something they have not played we'll get them sat down and playing. Our goal is people playing and having fun as much as possible. I just cannot assign and schedule in judges for events that I do not see being anywhere close to as in demand as what is on the schedule right now.
Dave C
DDXP 2009 Senior GM and Coordinator
The LFR policy regarding no level bump is terrible.
It will not generate new players or RGPA members. Furthermore D&D Exp was promoted as a beginner frendly show in 2008. I'm in this for about $500 including hotel, event registration and travel plus two vacation days from work and missing the Superbowl. Now there are only 3 rounds to play in if your below 4th level and they aren't event the first three rounds. If this is the case I want a refund. There is no phone number to call for customer service on the D&D EXP website either.The LFR policy regarding no level bump is terrible.
1) The LFR policy toward levels isn't terrible for everyone. You think its terrible because you're getting "left out" - those of us who have characters that can participate don't think it so bad.
2) Why would you register for a convention before you knew what the event schedule was?
3) No one is getting left out - its not like the modules can ONLY be played at D&D XP 2009.
4) Players with low level characters can organize pick-up games on-site if they find a DM willing to run a mod for them, so there will be somewhat more than 3 slots of play for levels 1-4.
1) The LFR policy toward levels isn't terrible for everyone. You think its terrible because you're getting "left out" - those of us who have characters that can participate don't think it so bad.
2) Why would you register for a convention before you knew what the event schedule was?
3) No one is getting left out - its not like the modules can ONLY be played at D&D XP 2009.
4) Players with low level characters can organize pick-up games on-site if they find a DM willing to run a mod for them, so there will be somewhat more than 3 slots of play for levels 1-4.
Okay, honestly, these are non-answers.
1. Of course those who got in on the ground floor don't think it's so bad! But that doesn't address the earlier poster's point: it makes it hard to jump in if you didn't start on the ground floor, and that inhibits new player entry and new memberships.
2. Thousands of people do exactly that for GenCon and Origins every year.
3. The usability of the mods after DDXP doesn't address the earlier poster's point, which is that he's invested a lot of money in what amounts to 3 play slots.
4. That's a lot of "ifs," and you can do the same thing at home.
I don't really have a dog in this fight; I don't play LFR and really have no plans to do so. But I understand why the earlier poster would be frustrated.
Okay, honestly, these are non-answers.
1. Of course those who got in on the ground floor don't think it's so bad! But that doesn't address the earlier poster's point: it makes it hard to jump in if you didn't start on the ground floor, and that inhibits new player entry and new memberships.
2. Thousands of people do exactly that for GenCon and Origins every year.
3. The usability of the mods after DDXP doesn't address the earlier poster's point, which is that he's invested a lot of money in what amounts to 3 play slots.
4. That's a lot of "ifs," and you can do the same thing at home.
I don't really have a dog in this fight; I don't play LFR and really have no plans to do so. But I understand why the earlier poster would be frustrated.
1) LFR is a Living campaign, and subject to the same general character creation rules that all the TSR/WotC (truly) Living campaigns have operated under, which is that PCs are created at 1st level, and played up from there.
The replay rules make it significantly easier in LFR than any previous Living campaign with this rule to support new players joining later.
2) Much bigger conventions, do you not so admit? DDXP is a WotC "house" convention. Expect them to cater more toward the cutting edge of their players. This same kind of thing happens at any "house" convention, since a significant portion of these kinds of events is advertising the bleeding edge products, and talking about that which is to come.
3) And he made a mistake. It happens. To everyone. I invested a lot more when I moved across the country a few years ago, with no promise of a job in my new location. I screwed up. So did the OP. Too bad, so sad, time to move on with life.
And, again, he can play the non-LFR games; and it should not be hard to get a low level LFR game together, since there are probably other people there willing to run/play for a new character concept.
4) Again, there s a fairly strong possibility, especially with more known people likely to want/need lower level modules. Also, as I think was mentioned, there are a couple of events with higher level characters possible, both the Delve and the 18th level adventure.
Believe me, joining a long-running campaign with a new PC is an issue that has plagued all the Living campaigns. I only started LG in October of 2007, and lost my first PC at the same convention I created him, so I had to start after the convention back at scratch...
Main issue I have with a different company's Organized Play campaign is that they work under the old LG-style replay rules, which is no replay allowed, and if you GM it before you play it, you can't play it. It was worse during the initial startup, when the whole of the campaign consisted of 4 modules, so if you lost a character, you were pretty much hosed...
Hey Wolfstar, if you are here, where are you going to be this morning? Wouldn't mind saying hi and meeting you during round 2 if you get this message
I'm at the front desk until 3:30 every day of the show - after that I wander aimlessly until there's a meeting or I'm fortunate enough to get into a game.
If you see a guy wandering around with a wooden name badge, you've found me.
For what its worth, we've been averaging 1-3 tables per slot of "Open Play" even if it isn't on the schedule.
Regarding the low-level tables at DDXP:
I don't personally know of anyone that came looking for a low-level game that was turned away. I ran one for a group on Friday morning when I was released from the special. I volunteered to run one Saturday Night when I wasn't scheduled to run anything, but the pool of judges had already stepped up and covered every game. I know a couple of Open Play judges got released as there were more judges than players. We judges try to be player friendly! (Unless you're playing the special at high tier, then all bets are off!) ;)
The paragon tier special "Beyond the Door" was great. We hadn't played paragon tier yet, an it rocked! Dave, and the RGPA staff and the DM's were excellent. I'm so glad that Dave encouraged us to go.
I've come to learn that I really enjoy dry-running mods, and my players from DDXP seemed to react quite favorably
-Ronn
Two quick questions - when is the event in 2010 and have you considered having one in the somewhat warmer Southeast?
Dave or Chris would be the ones who'd know for sure, but, in past years, they haven't announced the dates or location for this con before late summer or early fall, at the earliest.
I'm not sure what criteria they're using to select the location for DDXP these days (though, I think affordablity of the meeting space is a big part). When they moved it out of Fort Wayne originally* (after '03, IIRC), the stated intent was to make it an "east coast" convention, to balance out the big Midwestern conventions (Origins and GenCon Indy) and West Coast convention (GenCon SoCal originally, and now PAX) that RPGA HQ attends.
It'd been in New Jersey (suburban New York) and northern Virginia (suburban DC) previously; this year, they'd originally planned to hold it in Pittsburgh this year (and announced that plan at GenCon last summer), but quickly changed that plan to Fort Wayne, apparently due to some issues with the venue. The change to Fort Wayne obviously puts that "East Coast con" idea into question.
* - DDXP was originally called Winter Fantasy; it'd originally been held in Wisconsin, then moved to Chicago, then Fort Wayne. It was originally a more general gaming convention (though I think it's always been run by TSR / WotC), but it's been an RPGA-focused convention for about the last decade or so.
There are a variety of reasons why it moved out of Fort Wayne. An attempt to "spread the wealth" and balance out locations is one - but the construction/remodeling of the convention center is another one that goes hand-in-hand. There was, from what I gather, basically no place for the con in Fort Wayne for a while.
It's been located back to Fort Wayne again now due partly to the cost of the center, but also in NO small part to the fact that Indiana is so close to such a large portion of the American population (and because gaming is so popular in the midwest, it's close to an even LARGER chunk of gamers - the target audience).
Dates have ben late to be announced in the last few years, I gather, due to the dates and locations being somewhat unknown. GenCon, by comparison, has a contract with the Indy convention center - they agree to "x" years, and part of that includes scheduling the dates they want for those years.
It's my impression that there haven't been any long-term contracts for DDXP/Winter Fantasy for the last few years, and that each year options have been re-evaluated.
Based on the success of this year's show in Fort Wayne, I know Dave said that his preference would be to return to Ft. Wayne next year - and even to sign a contract for the next FEW years. He'd also, if I recall correctly, like to move the show to sometime in March.
Because any such arrangements have to be amenable to Dave, WotC, and the Convention Center - I'd expect it'll be a few months at the earliest before any such details are worked out and announced.
However if something can be agreed to on all parts, I'd hope that as early as this summer we'd have the dates for the next several years announced at or shortly after GenCon.
Keep your fingers crossed that the stars can align accordingly.
* - DDXP was originally called Winter Fantasy; it'd originally been held in Wisconsin, then moved to Chicago, then Fort Wayne. It was originally a more general gaming convention (though I think it's always been run by TSR / WotC), but it's been an RPGA-focused convention for about the last decade or so.
The convention was originally RPGA-centric, and only had other things during the Andon years (in Chicago).
Wishful thinking I know.I'd love to see it stay in Fort Wayne, nice and close!
Dave Christ (Senior GM and "The Bald Man" of Bald Man Games) would like it to stay in Fort Wayne as well. He'll be working (as time allows) with WotC and the Fort Wayne convention center to try and make that happen.
Dave Christ (Senior GM and "The Bald Man" of Bald Man Games) would like it to stay in Fort Wayne as well. He'll be working (as time allows) with WotC and the Fort Wayne convention center to try and make that happen.
\0/
Now I am sad.
But if all the major conventions are in one relative location - perhaps there's a reason for it?
Perhaps it's the reasons (proximity to population centers, cost, etc) that have been given?
For those that did travel to attend the show in Fort Wayne all I heard over and over again was how Fort Wayne must hate money because everything there was cheap. Free parking (if you stayed at the hotel), room rates ($50 or more less then DC), and $4-5 dollar food open the entire show hours easily made up for the extra tank of gas to get there or the $120 for a different flight. The convention center was awesome (and clean) from start to finish. I have zero complaints about it or the hotel (and next year another hotel should be open across the street). I fully intend to keep it in Fort Wayne and grow the show as much as I can as long as the choice is mine to make.
Still centrally located, but with warm & safe driving, cheap if you pick the right town/city, and lots of restaraunts per capita. And I don't receall there ever being a huge con in that region, so you would be picking up a whole new crowd for DDXP tickets, RPGA play, and D&D sale in general.
DDXP in Texas in Winter would be fabulous, and I'm not in or from Texas.
Still centrally located, but with warm & safe driving
The second line confirms that you're not in or from Texas. :P
Most of TX is not "centrally located." The best candidate would be the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex, but that part of Texas (where I lived from 1982-2003) can get bitterly cold, and sometimes dangerously icy, in January. I'm not sure you gain a lot over Ft. Wayne in that regard.
The farther south you go (where I lived from 1967-1982), the better chance you have of "warm & safe driving," but you give up "centrally located."
If you want warm in January, and easily accessible by plane (but not driving, for most of the nation's population), just repeat after me: "SoCal …*SoCal … SoCal …" :D
Houston's always been very warm when I'm there in Winter and is on 2 major interstates.
Sure, but if you go that far south, you've sacrificed "centrally located." Use MadFox's figure of a six-hour drive; at 75 mph (average), that's 450 miles. Draw a 450-mile radius circle centered on Ft Wayne, and then draw a 450-mile radius circle centered on Houston. Then compare the raw US population -- never mind the gamer population -- within each circle, and it's really no contest.
I'd rather go to Texas than the midwest any day, any season, any reason, but mathematically putting DDXP in Ft. Wayne makes more sense than putting it in Houston.
Not that I will ever (in my current job) be able to attend a con in January anyway, unless it's in Los Angeles.
I'm surprised there aren't more of these being held in California. Big population, lots of geeks. The only big event I can think of on the west coast is PAX and that is up north.
I'm surprised there aren't more of these being held in California. Big population, lots of geeks.
GenCon SoCal died a horrible death a few years ago. It had a good location (Anaheim, pretty much next door to Disneyland, easy cab ride from Orange County Airport), but never got particularly good attendance.
Their choice of timing probably didn't help (I believe it was always shortly before Thanksgiving), but I also heard more than a few complaints from the "local gamers" about the pricing structure. From what I remember, the locals were accustomed to cons that offered a "one price" ticket (i.e., your badge also covers all your events), whereas GenCon sells badges separately from event tickets.
I know that there were several big LG cons in California the past, which, from what I'd heard, were very well-run and popular, but I have no idea if those cons are still going after the end of LG.
If you want warm in January, and easily accessible by plane (but not driving, for most of the nation's population), just repeat after me: "SoCal …*SoCal … SoCal …" :D
No, no, no. Vegas, Vegas, Vegas.
Hotels galore, plenty of convention space, something to do for the non-gamers (gambling, shows, amusement parks, dining of most any variety), an airport that can handle traffic....
Vegas is the way to go. And about the only way I can afford to attend a convention these days...