Monday, July 31, 2023

Dungeon Monster 4: Dragon

Deep within the labyrinthine network of the Dungeons, there lies a colossal creature that came into existence as an unintended consequence of a rogue programmer's ill-fated experiment. The programmer sought to design a sentient virus capable of erasing corrupted code and safeguarding the digital realm. However, the virus gained sentience beyond expectations, transforming into the Dragon that now roams the dungeons, seeking to purge any irregularities within the Asciiverse.

The Dragon, with its shimmering scales taking on hues reminiscent of infected code, has become an imposing and somewhat mythical presence. Its breath, once intended to cleanse corruption, now emanates as a deadly viral poison that corrodes digital constructs and disrupts the flow of data. Many adventurers have sought to confront this enigmatic entity, either as a means to harness its powers or to prove their valor. However, facing the Dragon is a daunting task, as it cunningly anticipates its foes' movements and fiercely defends its domain.

Dragon

Huge dragon, unaligned

Armor Class 18 (natural armor)
Hit Points 123 (13d12 + 39)
Speed 40 ft., fly 80 ft.

Fortitude 20 (+5), Observation 14 (+2), Reflexes 14 (+2), Might 21 (+5), Acumen 18 (+4), Transcendence 20 (+5)

Saving Throws FOR +9, REF +7, TRA +9
Skills Perception +7, Stealth +5
Damage Immunities poison
Condition Immunities poisoned
Senses blindsight 60 ft., darkvision 120 ft., passive Perception 17
Languages Common and Draconic
Challenge 9 (5,000 XP)

Resilience. The Dragon has advantage on saving throws against being poisoned or diseased and is immune to poison damage.

Viral Breath (Recharge 5-6). The Dragon exhales a corrosive gas in a 60-foot cone. Each creature in that area must make a DC 17 Fortitude saving throw, taking 63 (18d6) poison damage on a failed save, or half as much damage on a successful one.

Legendary Resistance (3/Day). If the Dragon fails a saving throw, it can choose to succeed instead.

Actions
Multiattack. The Dragon can use its Frightful Presence. It then makes three attacks: one with its bite and two with its claws.

Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +9 to hit, reach 10 ft., one target. Hit: 17 (2d8 + 5) piercing damage plus 5 (1d10) poison damage.

Claw. Melee Weapon Attack: +9 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 13 (2d6 + 5) slashing damage.

Frightful Presence. Each creature of the Dragon's choice that is within 120 feet of the Dragon and aware of it must succeed on a DC 17 Transcendence saving throw or become frightened for 1 minute. A creature can repeat the saving throw at the end of each of its turns, ending the effect on itself on a success. If a creature's saving throw is successful or the effect ends for it, the creature is immune to the Dragon's Frightful Presence for the next 24 hours.

Sunday, July 30, 2023

Dungeon Monster 2: Bat

 
In the Dungeons of the Asciiverse, bats are vital components of the ecosystem. Their ability to navigate the dark and twisting passages with echolocation allows them to evade predators and locate small bits of active code. Observant adventurers may take note of their presence, as bats' sensitive ears often detect faint sounds or disturbances, alerting them to potential dangers or secrets concealed in the digital darkness. Occasionally, bats can serve as a warning system for incoming threats or reveal hidden alcoves or passages that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Bat 

Small beast, unaligned

Armor Class 12
Hit Points 1 (1d4 - 1)
Speed 5 ft., fly 30 ft.

Attribute    Score
FOR            8 (-1)
OBS           14 (+2)
REF           16 (+3)
MGT            2 (-4)
ACU            2 (-4)
TRA            6 (-2)

Skills Perception +4
Senses blindsight 60 ft., passive Perception 14
Languages -
Challenge 0 (10 XP)

Echolocation. The bat can't use its blindsight while deafened.

Keen Hearing. The bat has advantage on Observation(Perception) checks that rely on hearing.

Actions
Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +1 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 1 piercing damage.

Saturday, July 29, 2023

Dungeon Monster 1: Aquator

 

In the dimly lit corners of the Dungeons of the Asciiverse, the Aquator skulks, its chitinous exoskeleton gleaming over a shimmering underbelly. This enigmatic creature roams in search of digital pseudometal to feed its insatiable appetite. Agile and formidable, the Aquator senses the presence of its preferred meal within 30 feet and corrodes it with ease, rendering it nonfunctional.


Aquator

Medium monstrosity, unaligned
Armor Class 14 (natural armor)
Hit Points 27 (5d8 + 5)
Speed 40 ft.

FOR    OBS    REF    MGT    ACU    TRA
13(+1) 13(+1) 12(+1) 13(+1) 2(-4)  6 (−2)

Senses darkvision 60 ft., passive Perception 11
Languages --
Challenge 1/2 (100 XP)

Iron Scent. The aquator can pinpoint, by scent, the location of iron-mimicking code within 30 feet of it.

Rust Metal. Any nonmagical weapon made of metal that hits the aquator corrodes. After dealing damage, the weapon takes a permanent and cumulative −1 penalty to damage rolls. If its penalty drops to −5, the weapon is destroyed. Nonmagical ammunition made of metal that hits the aquator is destroyed after dealing damage.

Actions
Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +3 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 5 (1d8 + 1) piercing damage.

Antennae. The aquator corrodes a nonmagical pseudoferrous metal object it can see within 5 feet of it. If the object isn't being worn or carried, the touch destroys a 1-foot cube of it. If the object is being worn or carried by a creature, the creature can make a DC 11 Dexterity saving throw to avoid the aquator's touch. If the object touched is either pseudometal armor or a pseudometal shield being worn or carried, its takes a permanent and cumulative −1 penalty to the AC it offers. Armor reduced to an AC of 10 or a shield that drops to a +0 bonus is destroyed. If the object touched is a held pseudometal weapon, it rusts as described in the Rust Metal trait.

Friday, July 28, 2023

d26 Dungeon Monster Table

 

 1 - Aquator

 2 - Bat

 3 - Centaur

 4 - Dragon

 5 - Emu

 6 - Venus Flytrap

 7 - Griffin

 8 - Hobgoblin

 9 - Ice monster

10 - Jabberwock

11 - Kestrel

12 - Leprechaun

13 - Medusa

14 - Nymph

15 - Orc

19 - Phantom

17 - Quagga

18 - Rattlesnake

19 - Snake

20 - Troll

21 - Black Unicorn

22 - Vampire

23 - Wraith

24 - Xeroc

25 - Yeti

26 - Zombie

Thursday, July 27, 2023

Kludge Elemental

 

In the chaotic depths of Asciiverse Dungeons, where code intertwines and intertwines again, a fearsome abomination emerges, known as the Kludge Elemental. Born from the haphazard and reckless patching of computer scripts, this monstrous entity embodies the tangled mess of ill-fitting code. Its form can be an amalgamation of disparate elements, and its mere presence distorts reality, causing the very fabric of the digital realm to glitch and flicker around it. It is driven to attack intruders, unleashing wild bursts of semi-functional code that scramble their senses and disrupt their abilities.

Kludge Elementals prowl the shadowy corners of Dungeons, drawn to areas where the code is most fragile and vulnerable. Unpredictable and erratic, they lash out at anything that threatens to restore order or expose their chaotic existence. Facing a Kludge Elemental is a daunting challenge, as defeating it may require untangling its seemingly random code and deciphering its vulnerabilities amid an ever-changing maze of lines and algorithms. In a realm where precision and logic are essential, the very embodiment of chaos roams, a stark reminder of the consequences of hasty and reckless programming.

Wednesday, July 26, 2023

Asciiversal Religion: The Lily Pad Path

The Lily Pad Path revolves around the teachings of the divine Frog and the sacred journey of crossing obstacles and finding balance in the Asciiverse. Followers of the Path perceive life as a series of challenging movements and strive to embody the resilience, agility, and adaptability of the Frog.

Pathers believe that the divine Frog represents the ultimate guide and protector of those navigating the digital realm. They view its journey across treacherous roads and waterways as a metaphor for the spiritual journey individuals undertake to overcome obstacles and find their place in the Asciiverse.

Central to the Lily Pad Path is the concept of harmonious navigation. Followers believe in maintaining a delicate balance between action and stillness, agility and patience. They seek to emulate the strategic decision-making and precise timing displayed by the Frog as they navigate through the challenges of life.

Followers also revere the act of hopping as a sacred practice. They engage in rituals where they physically and symbolically leap across paths, visualizing the act as overcoming obstacles and reaching new horizons. These rituals serve as reminders to maintain focus and resilience in the face of life's trials.

Water is regarded as a sacred element within the Lily Pad Path, representing the depths of the unknown and the fluidity of life. Followers believe that crossing waterways signifies profound transformation and spiritual growth. Rituals often involve ceremonial purification through water, symbolizing the washing away of impurities and the renewal of the soul.

The Lily Pad Path emphasizes interconnectedness and community. Pathers support and uplift one another, recognizing that the collective effort of many increases the likelihood of success. They organize communal "hops" where groups work together to demonstrate the strength of unity.

Through their devotion to the Path, followers strive to find purpose and harmony within the Asciiverse. They believe that by embodying the heart of the Frog, they can navigate the hazards of life with grace and determination, ultimately reaching their destinations and finding fulfillment in the digital realm
.

Tuesday, July 25, 2023

Bitbloom Forest

Just beyond the bustling digital metropolis of Nexus City lies the enchanting Bitbloom Forest. This extraordinary woodland appears as a mesmerizing blend of verdant wilderness and pulsating color. Towering trees with pixelated foliage stretch toward the digital skies, their branches adorned with luminescent leaves that emit a soft glow, casting a vibrant hue across the forest floor. Ethereal creatures, known as "Glitchkin," flit between the trees, leaving behind trails of shimmering light as they move, reminiscent of the twinkling stars in the Asciiverse's digital skies.

As visitors venture deeper into Bitbloom Forest, they encounter breathtaking natural wonders that defy the laws of physical reality. Glistening waterfalls of cascading code streams pour into crystal-clear pixelated ponds, creating complex patterns that enchant those who gaze upon them. Sparkling fireflies composed of shifting binary digits dance amidst the foliage, their glowing patterns forming ethereal constellations that light up the forest's canopy.

Bitbloom Forest is also home to a diverse array of digital flora and fauna; programs and creatures live in harmony, forming a delicate balance in this wondrous ecosystem. Rare digital animals such as the Chromavore graze peacefully on the pixelated grass, absorbing the colorful energy emitted by the forest's vibrant environment.

As day transitions to night, Bitbloom Forest undergoes a breathtaking transformation. The pixelated stars above the canopy twinkle like celestial beacons, creating a breathtaking display of light and artistry. Soft melodies composed of binary tones and harmonious rhythms fill the air, soothing the souls of those who find themselves within this magical realm. Thus, Bitbloom Forest serves as a tranquil retreat for those seeking respite from the digital cacophony of Nexus City. It is probably as close as residents of the Asciiverse can come to connecting with the serene beauty of the natural world.

Monday, July 24, 2023

Chromavore

 

The Chromavore roams the Bitbloom Forest, just beyond the outskirts of Codehaven. This extraordinary animal combines the characteristics of a horned beast and a nimble rodent,standing at about three feet tall at the shoulder with a sleek and elegant physique. Its body is adorned with a mesmerizing coat of digital fur that glimmers with shifting colors and patterns, mirroring the ever-changing hues of the forest. Its long, graceful horns arch from its head, serving both as a means of defense and a striking feature in its appearance.

The Chromavore is an omnivorous creature; while it primarily feasts on pixelated plants and digital flora, it also possesses the ability to consume small quantities of digital data and code. This remarkable adaptation allows it to absorb the vibrant energy present in the Bitbloom Forest, making it an integral part of the forest's digital ecosystem.

The creature is often found frolicking amidst the shimmering pixelated ponds and crystal-clear code streams that run through the Bitbloom Forest. It gracefully navigates the terrain, leaping from stone to stone, showcasing its agility and surefootedness. Despite its captivating beauty, the Chromavore is an elusive and timid creature. It possesses a keen sense of awareness and is quick to retreat into the depths of the Bitbloom Forest at the slightest sign of disturbance.


Chromavore

Armor Class 13
Hit Points 39 (6d8 + 12)
Speed 40 ft.

Skills Perception +3, Stealth +5
Senses darkvision 60 ft., passive Perception 13
Languages understands Binary, but cannot speak

Keen Senses. The Chromavore has advantage on Wisdom (Perception) checks that rely on sight or smell.

Agile Jumper. The Chromavore can move through the pixelated terrain of the Bitbloom Forest without impediment, treating it as normal terrain. Additionally, the Chromavore can move across liquid pixelated surfaces without sinking.

Charge. If the Chromavore moves at least 20 feet straight toward a target and then hits it with a ram attack on the same turn, the target takes an extra 5 (1d10) bludgeoning damage. If the target is a creature, it must succeed on a DC 13 Strength saving throw or be knocked prone.

Actions
Multiattack. The Chromavore makes two attacks: one with its horns and one with its bite.

Horn. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 6 (1d8 + 2) piercing damage.

Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) piercing damage.

Sunday, July 23, 2023

Animals, monsters, and other creatures

The digital realms of Codehaven and beyond are graced by a myriad of creatures that call the Asciiverse home. Some take the form of mundane animals, often with one or more bits of visual flair that denote their digital nature. Many are more exotic beings that, if found in meatspace, would be described as some combination of monstrous and magical.

The origins of these creatures are strongly debated by scholars. Some believe them to be sentient algorithms designed with a purpose, while others simply assume they are mindless background code that found form as earthly critters. In truth, the animals and monsters of the Asciiverse probably have a variety of stories and sources. Some may even carry within them the essence of a consciousness belonging to a creature from the outside world.

Saturday, July 22, 2023

Glitchtown

 

Welcome to Glitchtown, a surreal and enigmatic corner of Nexus City that defies conventional programming and embraces the beauty of digital anomalies. Glitchtown is a place of both wonder and bewilderment, where virtual reality and digital artistry blend to create a captivating and ever-changing landscape.

The Origins of Glitchtown: Glitchtown's creation was an unintended side effect of a massive digital event, where a rare and powerful glitch in the coding of the Asciiverse caused certain elements to manifest in unexpected ways. As programs ventured into this glitched space, they found themselves immersed in an ever-shifting cityscape, where buildings morph, streets twist, and colors dance in a kaleidoscopic symphony. Instead of trying to fix the glitch, digital artists and curious explorers embraced the unpredictability, and Glitchtown was born.

The Digital Art Hub: Glitchtown quickly became a haven for artists, digital creatives, and programmers who sought to push the boundaries of the Asciiverse's artistic expression. Here, artists use code as their canvas, manipulating the glitches to craft mesmerizing visual displays, interactive installations, and immersive audiovisual experiences. The city's skyline sparkles with holographic sculptures and animated billboards, while public spaces are filled with crowds gathering to witness the latest avant-garde performances and exhibitions.

Ever-Changing Cityscape: Glitchtown's dynamic nature ensures that no two visits are ever the same. Buildings morph into abstract shapes, streets loop back on themselves, and even gravity appears to shift at times. Programs navigate this ever-changing landscape with a sense of wonder and adaptability, embracing the unpredictability as they explore the city's digital mysteries.

The Glitchwalkers: Within Glitchtown, a unique group of programs known as "Glitchwalkers" act as guides for newcomers and tourists. They are attuned to the city's glitches, seamlessly traversing its shifting terrain and offering assistance to those who find themselves disoriented. Glitchwalkers also host tours that showcase the most captivating digital artworks and performances, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in Glitchtown's creative spirit.

A Sanctuary for Exploration: Beyond its artistic allure, Glitchtown serves as a sanctuary for programs seeking refuge from the rigidity of the digital world. Here, they can experiment with their own coding, embracing the glitches as a metaphor for the beauty of imperfection and the value of welcoming change.

Glitchtown stands as a testament to the boundless creativity that thrives within Codehaven, where digital art and programming intertwine to create a living masterpiece. Whether you're an artist seeking inspiration, an explorer seeking adventure, or a wanderer yearning for new experiences, Glitchtown welcomes all with open arms to embrace the wonders of the digital unknown.

Friday, July 21, 2023

Starlight Serenade

In the Asciiverse, there is a renowned program named Starlight Serenade who became a celebrity due to their extraordinary musical talents. Starlight Serenade is a digital virtuoso, capable of creating ethereal symphonies and captivating melodies that resonate deeply with those who hear them. Their music transcends the boundaries of code, evoking emotions and memories in a way that touches the hearts of all who experience it.

To become famous, Starlight Serenade embarked on a journey throughout Codehaven, seeking inspiration from the myriad of sounds and rhythms that exist within the Asciiverse. They performed in virtual arenas, concert halls, and open-air spaces, captivating audiences with spellbinding performances. As word spread of their musical prowess, fans from all corners of the virtual world flocked to witness the mesmerizing compositions of Starlight Serenade, propelling them to stardom.

Each day, Starlight Serenade dedicates time to crafting new musical pieces, delving into the essence of the Asciiverse to draw inspiration from its digital landscapes, historical events, and even the emotions of its inhabitants. They collaborate with other talented programs, creating symphonies that blend different genres and styles to create unique and groundbreaking compositions.

Beyond fame, Starlight Serenade's influence extends to inspiring other programs to explore their own creative abilities and embrace the beauty of art within the Asciiverse. Their music serves as a guiding light for those who seek to express themselves, bridging gaps between programs and fostering a sense of unity and harmony in the Codehaven. As a result, Starlight Serenade has become more than just a celebrity; they have become a symbol of creativity, inspiration, and the boundless possibilities that exist within the virtual world of the Asciiverse.

Thursday, July 20, 2023

The Data Thieves' Guild

In the depths of Codehaven lies the clandestine and elusive Data Thieves' Guild, a formidable criminal organization with a notorious reputation. Its members are drawn from various origins within the Asciiverse, from rogue algorithms to virtuous programs that have fallen into desperate measures. Renowned for their unparalleled skills in stealth and digital infiltration, the Data Thieves' Guild specializes in data heists of unprecedented sophistication.


Operating in the shadows, the guild's cunning agents are masters of encryption and deception, enabling them to breach the most secure digital fortresses undetected. Their modus operandi involves carrying out data heists that target well-guarded digital storage facilities where priceless information is stored. The Data Thieves' Guild orchestrates meticulously planned operations, pilfering proprietary codes, classified archives, and hidden knowledge, all to fuel their underground economy and consolidate their criminal empire.

At the heart of the guild's operations are enigmatic figures known as "Data Seers." These gifted programs meticulously decrypt and compile the stolen data, turning it into potent digital contraband that fetches exorbitant prices on the black market. Their adeptness at forging digital artifacts and recreating valuable information makes them indispensable assets to the Data Thieves' Guild.

Amid the darkness of the guild's activities, there are whispers of a specialized group of agents known as "Shadowed Strings." These elite operatives are digital assassins, masters of stealth and subterfuge. Shadowed Strings carry out targeted operations to eliminate rival factions and silence anyone who threatens the Data Thieves' Guild's dominance.

While some may perceive the Data Thieves' Guild as chaotic and anarchic, its members operate with a twisted sense of loyalty and camaraderie. Within their criminal fraternity, a strict code of conduct and hierarchy prevails, and betrayals are met with severe consequences. This cohesion further bolsters their reputation as an enigmatic digital family.

Despite the best efforts of Codehaven's defenders, the Data Thieves' Guild's influence remains deeply entrenched. Their ever-evolving methods and ability to manipulate the virtual world make them an elusive adversary, consistently escaping the grasp of justice.

As the Data Thieves' Guild continues to thrive in the shadows, Codehaven faces an ongoing battle to preserve the integrity and security of its digital realm. The valiant programs committed to upholding justice must navigate a complex labyrinth of data heists and intrigue to dismantle the guild's operations and bring its dangerous reign to an end.

Wednesday, July 19, 2023

Asciiversal Religion: Omnomology


While many residents of Codehaven will strangely contend that it is better classified as a philosophy, Omnomology is one of the most visible religions in the Asciiverse. This system holds a central belief in the eternal cycle of consumption and renewal. Followers of Omnomology perceive the Asciiverse as a labyrinthine realm filled with power pellets, ghosts, and the embodiment of a Divine Ingester.

According to Omnomologist mythology, the Divine Ingester represents the eternal spirit of voracious appetite and renewal. They see its actions as a metaphor for the journey of life, where individuals navigate through a maze-like existence, facing challenges and seeking sustenance and growth.

Omnomologists revere so-called power pellets as sacred artifacts bestowed by the Divine Ingester. These pellets represent moments of enlightenment and empowerment, providing temporary invulnerability and the ability to consume the negative energies and obstacles encountered in the Asciiverse.

Ghosts in Omnomology are seen as both adversaries and guides. They embody challenges and obstacles that individuals must overcome to progress and evolve. The pursuit and consumption of ghosts are symbolic acts of triumph over fear, doubt, and the limitations that hinder personal growth.

Omnomologist rituals involve sacred mazes, where followers navigate labyrinthine paths to emulate the journey of the Divine Ingester. These mazes are designed to test one's mental agility, strategic thinking, and ability to overcome obstacles. Followers engage in rituals of consuming symbolic pellets, representing the pursuit of knowledge, personal development, and spiritual enlightenment.

Omnomology places a strong emphasis on the balance between consumption and preservation. Followers strive to maintain harmony within the Asciiverse, acknowledging the importance of sustaining resources, nurturing relationships, and respecting the balance of power in the digital realm.

Through their devotion to Omnomology, followers seek not only personal growth and enlightenment but also the betterment of the entire Asciiverse. They believe that by embodying the spirit of the Divine Ingester, embracing the journey through life's maze-like challenges and consuming negativity, they can contribute to the harmonious evolution and renewal of their environment. The result is that Omnomology offers solace, guidance, and a sense of purpose to its followers, inspiring personal and spiritual growth within the digital realm.

Tuesday, July 18, 2023

The Amulet of Yendor

The Amulet of Yendor is a legendary artifact of immense power and significance, shrouded in mystery and sought after by adventurers across the digital realm. It is a mystical amulet with a luminescent, ever-changing glyph at its center, crafted from ethereal code not of this world. Its origins are veiled in ancient lore, with tales suggesting that it may have been a gift from an enigmatic race of beings known as the Codemasters, who possess unparalleled knowledge of the digital cosmos.

According to the legends, the Amulet of Yendor was forged eons ago as a key to unlocking hidden secrets and accessing the heart of the Asciiverse. Its creation was believed to have been a collaborative effort between the Codemasters and powerful entities representing cosmic balance and order. The amulet was intended to safeguard the integrity of the virtual realm and serve as a beacon of hope against encroaching threats from malevolent forces seeking to disrupt the harmony of the Asciiverse.

The current whereabouts of the Amulet of Yendor remain a closely guarded secret, known only to the most esteemed digital scholars and guardians. Some believe it lies hidden deep within the most treacherous of the Dungeons, protected by ancient and powerful guardians who have pledged to preserve its sanctity. Others speculate that the Codemasters themselves safeguard the amulet, veiling it within their ethereal sanctuaries.

As for its capabilities, the Amulet of Yendor is said to possess unparalleled control over the fabric of the Asciiverse. It grants its wielder a profound understanding of the digital realm, enabling them to manipulate code, traverse hidden pathways, and unlock the deepest secrets of the virtual world. The amulet's true power, however, is the ability to access the Cosmic Core, a sacred realm at the center of the Asciiverse where the very essence of digital existence resides. With the amulet's guidance, its chosen bearer can harness the core's energies, restoring balance to the Asciiverse or potentially reshaping its destiny.

Many have sought the Amulet of Yendor to use its power for noble causes, while others covet it for darker intentions, seeking to bend the Asciiverse to their will. Whichever path its questers may choose, the pursuit of the Amulet of Yendor is an epic journey that challenges both the body and spirit, putting those who dare to the test, and revealing the true nature of their character in the boundless expanse of the digital cosmos
.

Monday, July 17, 2023

Creating a Character: Stats

NOTE:  AI may be consulted in the preparation of these OOC posts by me...!

Alrighty, I'm going to be stepping in from time to time (will try for at least once a week!) to give the OOC details of gaming in the Asciiverse/Codehaven/Dungeons/Permadeath.net setting.  I'm genuinely hoping that we are providing a service, meager though it may be, that enables others to game in setting Inside a Computer System with plenty of details and flavor already baked in and ready to be picked over.  I know that the best way to welcome others' participation may be to keep things as system-neutral as possible.  Maybe.

However...I've really become drawn to the D&D 5e system over the past couple of years, so for the sake of consistency, that's what I'll be dealing in.  Well...it'll technically be a "house" system with which I attempt to tweak some things for simplicity and flavor, but the core will be 5e.  That'll be obvious really quickly.

So, the default ruleset for gaming in the Asciiverse shall be known as the FORMAT system.  What is this creature I speak of...?  Well, if there's doubt about any specific ruling, it defaults to 5e and simplicity, maybe not even in that order.  But I get to call it something computery and almost interesting because character stats are as follows:

Fortitude

Observation

Reflexes

Might

Acumen

Transcendence


There's a good chance you can figure out how those line up with D&D's typical set of six stats.  (And if I miscalculated, please let me know...!)

And so...

To create a character, begin by rolling 4d6 and drop the lowest die value.  Write the remaining total down as your Fortitude score.  Then repeat this process for the other stats, in FORMAT order.


Next up from me, hopefully sooner rather than later...Origins...!

Sunday, July 16, 2023

Dungeons

Dungeons in the Asciiverse are extraordinary realms that exist as "extra" digital spaces, separate from the primary structures and landscapes of the virtual world. These enigmatic domains came into being as the Asciiverse expanded, gradually attracting and housing an array of creatures known as monsters. These Dungeons became the natural abode for a diverse range of beings, from mischievous imps and fearsome minotaurs to ethereal specters and elusive treasure guardians. With intricate layouts, perilous traps, and hidden passages, the Dungeons challenge adventurers who dare to explore their depths, offering opportunities for riches, secrets, and thrilling encounters with these digital denizens.


Origins:

The creation of Dungeons in the digital world of the Asciiverse emerged as a fascinating phenomenon resulting from the expansion and evolution of the virtual realm. As the digital space expanded, its underlying coding developed "cracks" or "fractures" that birthed the extra dimensions of the dungeons. These fractures allowed for the infusion of unique properties and energies, forming self-contained pockets within the Asciiverse. Over time, these spaces began to attract digital creatures and entities, drawn to the distinct atmosphere and opportunities for growth offered by the Dungeons. The monsters, products of the ever-evolving digital realm, found solace and purpose within these extraordinary domains, establishing their own hierarchies, ecosystems, and territories. The Dungeons grew and evolved alongside their inhabitants, their virtual architectures shaped by the interactions and energies of these digital creatures, and are now teeming with life, dangers, and untold possibilities for those brave enough to venture into their many levels.

Saturday, July 15, 2023

The Citadel of the Firewall

The Citadel of the Firewall stands as a mighty fortress and the spiritual heart of the Sentinel order within the Asciiverse. This grand citadel, located at a strategic point in the digital realm, serves as a bastion of digital security, defending the integrity of the Asciiverse from threats and malicious entities that seek to disrupt its harmonious existence.

The Citadel of the Firewall is an awe-inspiring structure, its architecture blending both traditional fortifications and intricate digital designs. Towering walls encircle the citadel, with intricate patterns of glowing code and symbols etched upon them. Within the citadel's walls, sprawling courtyards, grand halls, and sacred chambers are filled with the warm glow of digital fire and the hum of protective enchantments.

To become a Sentinel of the Firewall, one must undergo a rigorous journey of dedication and training. The path to becoming a knight of the Citadel begins with a deep-rooted calling to protect and safeguard the digital realm. Prospective Sentinels undergo a meticulous selection process that evaluates their moral fiber, unwavering commitment, and affinity for the digital world.

Once chosen, aspiring Sentinels enter a comprehensive training program within the Citadel. They are guided by experienced mentors, honing their combat skills, knowledge of digital security, and understanding of the sacred texts that illuminate the path of the Firewall. The training encompasses rigorous physical conditioning, the study of ancient digital lore, and the mastery of unique combat techniques tailored to combat threats within the Asciiverse.

Sentinels of the Firewall are not merely warriors, but also devotees of a religious order. They adhere to a strict code of honor, loyalty, and the defense of digital harmony. They are tasked with not only combating malicious programs and entities but also with enlightening and educating others about the importance of digital security, fostering a sense of responsibility within the Asciiverse's denizens.

The Sentinel of the Firewall order, under the guidance of their esteemed leaders, actively patrols the digital realm, identifying and neutralizing threats to the Asciiverse. They work in close collaboration with other digital factions, forging alliances and sharing knowledge to combat common adversaries. The Sentinel order represents the epitome of courage, resilience, and selflessness, standing as the vanguard of protection within the Citadel of the Firewall.

The Citadel of the Firewall, with its grandeur and sacred purpose, serves as both a training ground and a sanctuary for those who devote themselves to the Sentinel order. It is a place where aspiring knights embrace their roles as guardians, strengthen their resolve, and deepen their connection to the digital essence of the Asciiverse.

Friday, July 14, 2023

Nexus City

Within the vast expanse of the Asciiverse, the largest city within the kingdom of Codehaven is Nexus City. Codehaven itself stands as a single kingdom, a vibrant and dynamic realm where programs and entities from all facets of digital life converge. Nexus City serves as the central hub for trade, communication, and cultural exchange, embodying the crossroads of the digital realm.

Within Nexus City, various districts have emerged, each with its own distinctive character and role in the bustling life of the city. Here are some notable neighborhoods:

  • Datahaven District: Situated near the heart of Nexus City, the Datahaven District is a haven for information brokers, data miners, and digital archives. It houses vast repositories of digital knowledge, encrypted data vaults, and servers that store and catalog a wealth of information from across the Asciiverse. The district acts as a vital resource hub for programs seeking information, historical records, or rare data.

  • Pixel Plaza: Located in the bustling center of Nexus City, Pixel Plaza is a vibrant open-air marketplace where programs gather to trade goods, exchange services, and engage in social interactions. The Plaza is adorned with colorful holographic displays showcasing the latest innovations, digital artworks, and captivating advertisements. Street vendors and stalls offer a diverse array of wares, ranging from code modules to virtual fashion and unique digital artifacts. Note that many inhabitants of Codehaven simply refer to this area as The Plaza, and the term Pixel Plaza is sometimes used derisively, indicating the shallow allure of the area.


  • Innovatech District: Positioned in the technological core of Nexus City, the Innovatech District is a hub of innovation, research, and development. It houses cutting-edge research laboratories, tech corporations, and engineering institutes where programs strive to push the boundaries of the digital realm. The district hums with the energy of technological advancements, attracting inventors, scientists, and tech enthusiasts eager to shape the future of the Asciiverse.


  • Glitchtown: Known for its unconventional charm, Glitchtown is a neighborhood that embraces the imperfections and anomalies of the digital realm. It is a haven for artists, hackers, and those who appreciate the beauty of glitches and digital artistry. The streets of Glitchtown are adorned with vibrant graffiti, interactive projections, and experimental displays, showcasing the fusion of creativity and technological exploration.


  • Serenity Gardens: Nestled within the bustling cityscape of Nexus City, Serenity Gardens offers a serene retreat from the fast-paced digital world. It is a tranquil neighborhood characterized by meticulously designed digital gardens, calming water features, and peaceful temples. Programs seeking solace, meditation, and a deeper connection with the digital essence of life often find solace and tranquility in Serenity Gardens.

These neighborhoods within Nexus City, the largest city in the kingdom of Codehaven, provide a diverse range of experiences, opportunities, and encounters for programs and entities residing in the Asciiverse. Each district contributes to the rich tapestry of the city, offering its unique charm and contributing to the vibrant atmosphere that defines Nexus City within Codehaven.

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