The Player’s Notebook
Number of Views :539
I’m a firm believer that a player should have more on-hand than just their character sheet. They shouldn’t have to bring in a tub of stuff for their character, but it pays to come prepared. On episode 12 of RPG Circus, we talked about the Player’s Notebook, and what it should include.
Here’s what I would include if I was playing in a 4e game:
First off, I would use one of those paper folders that includes three-hole binding. With this, I would have at least one of those sheet protectors we mentioned; the heavy stock ones that are nice and durable, for the character sheet. As we mentioned in the episode, you can mark it up with wet erase markers during the game, then transfer everything over afterwards.
Behind that, you can place a 3×3 card protector page (or two, depending on your number of powers). Fill these with your powers, magic items, rituals, etc. These are easy to write on as well, in case any of your numbers change mid-game.
Include a map of the world, so when the DM mentions a location, you’re able to identify it.
Include lots of extra paper for taking notes. I love taking notes during the game, if I’m playing, that way, when the DM can’t remember the name of the tavern’s barkeep, I can bring it up.
And of course, you should always have your mini and dice on hand.
And I think that’s it. What do you think should be included?
One player I know prints up pertinent rules for his character. For example, right now he is playing a mounted fighter, so he has all the rules for mounted combat. In a previous game, he was a paladin Diplomonster that also did trip and disarm, so he had summaries of those rules at hand (this was for 3.5e, btw).
For 4e, the list of actions (what is standard, move, and minor) plus the list of conditions (dazed, immobilized, etc.) might be a handy reference for a player.
That’s a great question Mark. I always bring a big bag of kettle corn, and something to drink (Yoo-Hoo chocolate drink, hence the nickname). I also bring pencils and my players handbook. Some other things in my bag are sticky notes, note cards, and little skull beads for marking effects and my fighters mark. I also keep a cushion in the truck for the long sessions, getting old I guess.