Back for the second issue, delayed we read due to a concerted attack of both computer and the disease sorts of virus! Undeterred, the Meeting of the Minds column enables SGG's founders and designers to muse on the underlying motivations behind the designs of their games - both working independently before they came together to form the company, and now continuing to develop their own material. If you like insights into the process of game design, this can all get quite fascinating.

After a brief note on upcoming product releases comes this issue's Unorthodxy Unleashed, in which the novel if rather disgusting concept of using body parts as melee weapons is considered. (I recall one AD&D fighter who laid about herself with a ham joint in desperation, but it was dead BEFORE combat started!) Most game masters will try to talk players out of the idea, but here are some reasons why it just might work... but the general conclusion is that, like the fighter with the ham joint, severed body parts are weapons of last resort.

Next up, the staff reviews. This month Ben Overmyer looks at Microlite 74 - an attempt to create the feel of old-school D&D while using the D20 rules mechanic. His conclusion is that it does succeed, but you need to be experienced with the original incarnations of D&D to use it to full effect. Kevin Rohan considers the Savage Worlds Explorer's Handbook, which he finds intuitive and fun, something novice and experienced gamer alike could enjoy... pulp adventures are always enjoyable, but ones with a system that lets you concentrate on plot and smash through the action are even better.

This month's Wellstone City Update introduces another notable citizen, one Nikoli Vermanski. This worthy has given up attempting to muscle in on the local Mob with some Russian-style Mafiya activity and firearms dealing, and now trades in information instead. He's a useful person to know, provided you can actually find him - he's perfected the art of staying out of everyone's sight, but when it comes to information he is unsurpassed - if you can pay his fee.

Finally, the guest review of an SGG product this month is the Æther core rules again, this time by Jason Dettman. He is less than completely impressed, but presents a fair and reasoned analysis - and it is refreshing that a 'house mag' of this nature is honest enough to publish such a piece about their own game.

Another well-presented issue with plenty to read packed in. And free.

Return to Silver Gryphon Monthly: November 2008 page.

Reviewed: 4 March 2010