Little known RPGs... This one's for the stingy people

Hey guys,

The RPG community in the Philippines is still not exactly large enough to be recognizable, unlike the gigantic behemoth that is the Pinoy anime community. As such, I guess it's time to hit low by promoting RPGs that require next to nothing to get into. In fact, I'm linking to several places where people can get samplers of games that are currently in the market.

As my Uncle say, "Free is very good price"

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1. Final Stand by Tim Denee

Final Stand can be best described as "one part Tekken and two parts Kung Fu Theatre". This 23 page PDF download contains one of the most amusing combat systems I have ever encountered in any game, amateur or professional.

Set in a rather generic backdrop known as Big City, Final Stand has a five minute character creation process using Stereotypes from Chinese movies that anyone can immediately recognize. In fact, playing up the quirks of each stereotype actually rewards the Character with Chi that he can use in combat.

Fast, Fun and a must have in any RPG collection.

2. Exalted Quickstart Rules by White Wolf Publishing

Exalted. By far the best new fantasy game out there that isn't related to d20, Exalted has players taking the roles of demigods. Champions of the gods whose awesome powers and incredible deeds can build kingdoms and topple empires. Anime-influenced action, epic storylines equal to Greek myths and storytelling potential that White Wolf is famous for.

While this free quickstart has some information on the game, I'd highly recommend checking out the real thing. I might cover Exalted's expansive setting in another article.

3.) Spycraft Lite by Alderac Entertainment

d20 Fans shouldn't be disappointed, at least one of the developers has decided that it would be good to show what their game can do without any cash out. Spycraft is a game of modern espionage much to the tune of Mission: Impossible. Unlike most other d20 books, Spycraft's Corebook doesn't require the use of any of the D&D corebooks to use... as long as you know how to generate character scores.

Game wise, Spycraft is excellent. While a little heavy on the GM planning part, the game boasts of excellent classes and gadgets to get the espionage vibe going on any dungeon delving group. For Spycraft Lite Character Sheets, click here.

4. Steampunk Mafia by Jay Steven Anyong

This alternate world game takes place in a fictional American City known as New Providence in the middle of 1920. It was a time of terror, as the mafia families took to the streets, robbing banks and stealing from businesses without fear. The police were powerless to stop them, because the Mafia had one very powerful advantage: 12 foot tall, Steampowered Mecha known as Kodiaks.

Players can take the side of either the Mafia or the Police and take to the streets to either protect, or conquer New Providence. This RPG is complete and free, and is designed by me. If you've got time, download it and give it a shot, heck you could even review it and post your thoughts over in the comments section, I'd be glad to hear from any of you.