This second edition is the first edition with a bunch of extras thrown in. So before I get into my 2nd edition specific stuff, here's my review of first edition (which still applies to this edition):
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" Had my first game of this just a couple days ago. Niiiiice.
Very simple, very easy. The gameplay is extremely smooth with a heavy focus on story and no focus on rules, as the rules seem so natural that they just 'happen' and are very easy to remember.
When playing, you're working with very small numbers - 4 and under. That's stats, that's the 'beans' (dice), hit points, etc, etc. As odd as this sounds, it works and doesn't feel at all unnatural.
Saving rolls/contests/whatever you prefer to call them, are again, so simple - both for the GM to decide upon, and for the player to understand and act upon.
Again, I come back to the word "natural". Once you start playing, it all just works so naturally. And again, it works.
For only $2, you've got to give it a try. Seriously.
Oh....and the artwork. Just look at the cover. That pretty much describes it. Gotta love it. :) "
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Ok, and now on to the 2nd edition specific review:
1st edition was $2. This edition is $3. And yet, it's had a lot of stuff thrown into it. All the 1st edition stuff works great as-is, and none of the new stuff is 'mandatory' to use, but dang you get a lot. Here's a list:
Health points - If you're one of those who don't think that being hurt in combat should make you less physically able to do things, then use these Health points. These allow you to track damage without having to modify your 'Body' attribute. I prefer using the Body attribute, but I can see how this allows the game to fit into the preconceived rpg concept that most people have, coming to this game from other games.
Skills, skill bonus - You can now have a skill as narrow or broad as you'd like, and can use the bonuses from the skill to aid you in feats that employ your skill.
Non Lethal combat - stun or knock out your opponent without killing them off
Mounted & Ship to ship combat - Yar! Avast ye pirate types! Cool addition. I used the mounted combat recently while flying on a dragon. Awesome. :)
Custom archetypes - warrior, rogue, and wizard not enough for you? Branch out!
More spells - nuff ced
Beastiary - the number of beasts is more than doubled!
Updated character sheets - same size but 3 pages (by folding and cutting)
9 pre-made NPCs
More artwork. And truly, the artwork itself is worth more than the extra dollar paid. I love this guy's artwork.
I don't know what else I could say. The value of what you get far outweighs the measly extra dollar between the editions. And the value and gameplay of the entire game for $3 far outweighs the value we got for $15 back in the early 80's.
Get it. You won't be sorry.
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