Unleashing the Ninth World: A Blog to Numenera - The RPG With a Twist

Feb 11

This blog is a short introduction to the Numenera RPG. Since Crit Academy will be launching a new podcast called Crit Academy: Dice and Dialogue: A TTRPG Discussion Podcast. I’ve recently delved into this fantastic game and wanted to share some of my initial thoughts. In our new show, we try out a variety of games and then share our experiences with you. We will discuss what makes each game special, what we feel could use improvement, and what aspects you can integrate into other TTRPG games. We will also talk system agnostic tips and tricks that you can bring to your game table.

Step into the Ninth World with Numenera: An Introduction for RPG Gamers

Ah, Numenera, the RPG game that's as unique as a unicorn with a mohawk. It's got everything you could ever want in a game: a wacky setting, wild characters, and dice mechanics that'll have you rolling with laughter (or frustration, but we'll get to that later).

First, let's talk about the setting. Numenera runs on the popular Cypher System by Monte Cook Games. The game takes place in the Ninth World, a world that's so far removed from our own that it's basically in a different dimension. It's a world of ancient technology, mysterious ruins, and all sorts of strange creatures that you've never seen before (and probably don't want to see again). But, that's what makes Numenera so much fun! It's a world where anything is possible, and the only limit is your imagination.

Next, let's talk about the This blog is a short introduction to the Numenera RPG. Since Crit Academy will be launching a new Podcast called Crit Academy: Dice and Dialogue: A TTRPG Discussion Podcast. I’ve recently delved into this fantastic game and wanted to share some of my initial thoughts. In our new show, we try out a variety of games and then share our experiences with you. We will discuss what makes each game special, what we feel could use improvement, and what aspects you can integrate into other TTRPG games. We will also talk system agnostic tips and tricks that you can bring to your game table.

From the team that brought you 300 episodes of Crit Academy A Dungeons and Dragons Discussion podcast, comes a new show: Crit Academy: Dice and Dialogue with hosts Justin, Ian, Brandon, and Aelx. Our hosts each bring different experiences, viewpoints, and styles to the games and discussions. characters. In Numenera, you create your own character, and let me tell you, the possibilities are endless. Want to play as a nanobot that can control technology? You got it. How about a jack who's got the ability to manipulate reality itself? Sure thing! With the character creation system in Numenera, you can create a character that's as unique as a snowflake, and that's what makes the game so much fun.

Now, let's talk about the mechanics. This is where Numenera really shines, and where you'll either be laughing with joy or crying tears of frustration. But don't worry, it's all part of the fun!

The mechanics in Numenera are based on a simple system of rolling a 20-sided die and adding relevant ability scores. Each character has three ability scores: Might, Speed, and Intellect. These scores represent the character's physical, mental, and social abilities, respectively. Each score is rated on a scale from 0 to 10, with 10 being the highest. When you attempt to perform a task, you'll add your relevant ability score, edges and effort to the roll of a 20-sided die.

The GM sets the difficulty rating for each task, which is based on how challenging the task is. The difficulty ratings range from 0 to 10, with 0 being the easiest and 10 being the most difficult. When you roll the die, you must achieve a result equal to or greater than the difficulty rating in order to succeed. If you roll a result that's less than the difficulty rating, you fail.

But wait, there's more! In Numenera, a roll of 20 is referred to as an "explosion." When you roll an explosion, you roll the die again and add the result to your original roll. If you roll another 20, you roll the die again, and so on. This allows for the possibility of very high rolls, which can result in an especially successful outcome.

In some cases, you may want to put in extra effort to increase your chances of success. This is where effort comes in. When you use effort, you roll an additional die and add it to your roll. This increases your chances of success, but it also increases the risk of failure. Additionally, you can use a mechanic called edge, which allows you to add a bonus to your roll. The bonus can range from +1 to +3, depending on the character's edge score.

Another unique aspect of Numenera is the use of cyphers. Cyphers are one-use items that provide a character with a specific ability or bonus. They can be found in the Ninth World, and characters can carry a limited number of them. Cyphers add an extra layer of excitement to the game, as characters must choose when and how to use them for the best effect. Cyphers are basically like the wild cards of Numenera. They're one-use items that can provide your character with a specific ability or bonus. For example, you might find a cypher that gives you the ability to fly for a short time, or one that gives you a temporary boost to your Might score. The cool thing about cyphers is that they're always different, so you never know what you're going to get. This adds an extra layer of excitement to the game, as players must choose when and how to use their cyphers for the best effect.

Another important aspect of Numenera is the use of skill tasks. Skill tasks are used to determine success in specific areas, such as combat, negotiation, or sneaking. In Numenera, each character has a set of skills that are rated on a scale from 0 to 10, with 10 being the best. When attempting a skill task, the character rolls a 20-sided die and adds their relevant skill score. The GM sets the difficulty rating for the task, and the character must achieve a result equal to or greater than the difficulty rating in order to succeed.

So, what makes Numenera such a unique and entertaining RPG? For starters, it's the setting. The Ninth World is a world unlike any other, full of ancient technology, strange creatures, and mysterious ruins. The character creation system allows players to create characters that are truly unique, with abilities and skills that are as diverse as the players themselves. And, the mechanics are both simple and challenging, providing players with a fun and engaging experience. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or a newcomer, Numenera is a game that's sure to leave you rolling with laughter (or frustration, but that's all part of the fun!).

Numenera is a truly unique and entertaining RPG that's unlike anything you've ever played before. With its wacky setting, diverse characters, and entertaining mechanics, it's a game that's sure to provide you with hours of fun. So, grab pick up the fantastic starter set here and some friends, grab some dice, and get ready for an adventure like no other in the Ninth World!

Capes and Crooks - A 5e Superhero RPG

Capes and Crooks utilizes the core rules for the 5th Edition of the world’s greatest roleplaying game and adds its own unique twist. You will take on the role of a superhero (or a villain if you prefer) and completely customize your character with unique origins, roles, powers, and alter-egos. With a group of friends and a bit of imagination, you will strike out on dangerous missions and terrifying challenges, from stopping bank robbers and handling deadly hostage negotiations to slaying monstrosities created from a mad scientist’s experimentations. You will also have to deal with the realities of a law and order society that doesn’t exactly look kindly on those with powers. This book contains a world setting, character creation rules, equipment, powers, enhancements, magic items/tech, monsters, villains & NPC’s, and a full adventure.

Capes and Crooks takes place in the ultra-modern world of Terra, a place of science, technology, evolution, and even ancient lost magic. 25 years ago people around the world found themselves mysteriously imbued with fantastical gifts. Now called deviants, these people take on many roles as they struggle to find their place in this new world. Some wish to use their gifts to help others, some to gain wealth and power, and some to do evil to satisfy their darkness. In a world where what is right, and what is the law often conflicts, how will you choose to use your powers and conceal your identity from those who wish to stop you?

There will always be good and evil; light and dark. There will always be Capes and Crooks!

Get your copy here and make your next 5e tabletop adventure…super!

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