Solo Play Guide for FGU - INDEX

[Tempered7]

SOLO GUIDE.MOD (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=63936&stc=1&d=1743220636)
DND COMBAT GUIDE.MOD [WIP]

Dedicated to all Dreamers, Hermits and Lonewolves. I hail thee.
Introduction

Welcome to my Free-for-all passion project. It's a live document until it's finished. Feel free to dig in. Except for you, bots and botters; Shoo!


Solo Play In FGU - Intro (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?410-Solo-Play-in-FGU-Intro)
Start Playing With This Demo (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?453-Start-Playing-With-This-Demonstration) (Newcomer friendly)
Start Being Creative With This Demo (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?471-Start-Being-Creative-With-This-Demo)

Solo Gameplay Examples


Video Examples (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?437-Solo-Gameplay-Videos)
Podcast Examples (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?465-Podcast-Examples)
Solo Combat Video Series (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?501-Solo-Combat-Guide-Videos) For Beginners

FAQ


What Is Solo Play? (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?411-What-is-Solo-Play)
Why Play Solo? (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?412-Why-Play-Solo)
Cheapest & Quickest Way to Play Solo in FGU (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?413-Cheapest-and-Quickest-Way-for-Solo-Play) (D&D 5E only)
What Will I Need to Play Solo? (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?414-What-Will-I-Need-to-Play-Solo)
How Does a Solo Session Play? (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?415-How-Does-A-Solo-Session-Plays)
How Will I Motivate Myself? (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?416-How-Will-I-Motivate-Myself-for-Solo-Play)
Journaling In FGU (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?426-Journalling-In-Solo-Play)
Golden Rules of Solo Play (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?418-Golden-Rule-of-Solo-Play-and-KISS-IT!)


D&D 5E - Solo Combat Strategy Guide [WIP]: INDEX (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?82149-Solo-Play-Guide-for-FGU-INDEX&p=754557&viewfull=1#post754557)

(+) Done
(!) Cookin'

Progress: Artificer, Barbarian, Bard, Cleric, Druid, Fighter (+), Monk, Paladin, Ranger, Rogue, Sorcerer, Warlock, Wizard (!)

NEW! 5E SOLO BUILDS THREAD (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?86529-D-amp-D-5E-2014-Solo-Builds-for-the-Combat-Guide-Infographics)


Creating Solo-Viable Builds (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?86564-Principals-for-Creating-Solo-Viable-Builds) [& Tier Lists]
Class Table (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?86577-D-amp-D-Classes-and-Their-Core-Strategies-for-Solo-Mode&p=756677#post756677) [Core Strategies]


Overview


Overview of Solo Gameplay (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?419-Overview-of-Solo-Gameplay) (Summary)

Methodology (Beginner)

If you're starting new, just this part will be enough to kickstart your session.
Don't burden yourself with details. You can best learn by jumping into action and making your own mistakes.


Minimum Prep (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?424-Minimal-Prep-In-Solo-Sessions)
Modes of Play (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?425-Modes-of-Play-in-Solo-RPGs)
Your First Scene (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?427-Setting-Your-First-Scene) & First Scene Example (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?421-Example-of-a-First-Solo-Scene)
Core Gameplay Loop (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?428-The-Core-Solo-Gameplay-Loop) (Content Creation Method) Oracle Inside.
Freeform Association (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?429-Freeform-Association) (Source of Creativity)
Mechanics of Game Story (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?430-Mechanics-of-Game-Story) (To chain your scenes)
End of the Session (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?431-End-of-the-Session)
How to Play Published Adventures Solo (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?456-How-to-Play-Published-Adventures-Solo) (Fog of War in maps) & Note on spoilers in comments.


Oracles

I had to remove the links from this part to combine them in 1 page for the character limit was almost reached.

Main Page: All Oracle Reviews (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?492-Main-Page-Every-Oracle-Review)


3 Popular Oracles for FGU and Supplements (Paid) +
Mythic Game Master Emulator v1 (Web / Free) +
The Solo Adventurer's Toolbox 1 (D&D 5E Only, Paid) +
Mythic GM Emulator v2 (Paid, for soloing ANY setting) +
The Solo Adventurer's Toolbox 2(D&D 5E Only, Paid) -
Universal NPC Emulator (Paid Supplement) -


The 3 Pillars

Exploration


Exploration Part I (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?432-Exploration-In-Solo-Play-Part-I) (Discover an Established Setting), Requires a Setting Module
Exploration Part II (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?439-Exploration-In-Solo-Mode-Part-II)(Create-as-you-go) / Types of Random Generators

​Gwydion's 2d6 Dungeon Module Quick Start (http://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?461-Gwydion-s-2d6-Dungeon-Quick-Start-Guide)
Griogre's Let's Play Solo Series (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?85539-Let-s-Play-Solo!) [video]


Exploration Part III (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?454-Exploration-in-Solo-Mode-III) (Hex-Crawl) / Obstacle Creation

FGU Hexploration Playtest Notes (http://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?457-Solo-Hex-crawl-in-FGU-Demo-Playtest-Notes)


Roleplay


Roleplay (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?433-Roleplaying-in-Solo-Play)
Putting the RP Back into Solo RPGs (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?86530-Putting-the-RP-Back-into-Solo-RPGs&p=756453#post756453) NEW!

Combat


Beginner Combat Tweaks (http://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?434-Combat-Tweaks-for-Solo-GMs)


2 Approaches to Solo Play (Intermediate)


GM Approach (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?440-GM-Approach-to-Solo-Play) & Exercises for GM Approach (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?441-Exercises-For-GM-Approach-to-Solo-Play) (Creative Process).
Player Approach Part I (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?442-Player-Approach-to-Solo-Play-Part-I) & Part II (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?443-Player-Approach-to-Solo-Play-Part-II)
Muses (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?86612-Thematic-Muses-(Songs-and-Lists)-for-GMs-and-Players&p=756933&viewfull=1#post756933)

Part 1: About Inspiration for characters, quests.
Part 2: Inspiration for places & conflicts. Environmental Storytelling, Personalization.
Muses: Music, questioning, lists for inspiration.


Adjudication


Rules in Solo Play (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?435-Adjudication-and-Rules)

Cheating in Solo Play (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?436-Cheating-In-Solo-Play)

[Tempered7]

ACTUAL PLAYS

Planned Campaign List: I will open a new thread for these.

Play Published Adventures Solo:


Ultimate Undermountain: The Dungeon Level by Dan Harlan. (Will be weekly)

Others:


Discover an Established Setting: Nickin' the "Star" in Alkenstar (PFSW mini 1-shot)
Hex-crawl: Hexploring World Map Hex Tiles, For Real!


Deep Dive (Advanced)

1. Storytelling Articles


WHY & HOW to Utilize Story Mechanics (http://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?438-Why-amp-How-to-Utilize-Story-Mechanics) & ​Consequences Table (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?459-Consequences-Table)
9 Conflict Types (http://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?445-Conflict-Types-for-the-Solo-GM) & Ian Irvine's Conflict Creation Methods (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?446-Irvine-s-Sixty-Ways-to-Create-Conflict)
Conjuring Sparks from Themes (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?449-Conjuring-Thematic-Sparks-In-Solo-Play) & Thematic Word Table for Plots and Characters (http://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?450-My-List-of-Thematic-Words)

Methods to use themes in both creative AND therapeutic way & A Quick List of Action - Story - Character - Deep themes.
THEMATIC MUSES (Songs): Action (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?86612-Thematic-Muses-(Songs-and-Lists)-for-GMs-and-Players&p=756934&viewfull=1#post756934) * Story (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?86612-Thematic-Muses-(Songs-and-Lists)-for-GMs-and-Players&p=756935&viewfull=1#post756935) * Character (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?86612-Thematic-Muses-(Songs-and-Lists)-for-GMs-and-Players&p=756937&viewfull=1#post756937) * Deep - NEWISH
How to Use Themes (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?86612-Thematic-Muses-(Songs-and-Lists)-for-GMs-and-Players&p=757022&viewfull=1#post757022)? d8 ways to use themes in your games.


Creating Plot Twists On-The-Go (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?452-Creating-Plot-Twists-On-The-Go)
Creative Usage of Time In Solo Play (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?474-Creative-Usage-of-Time-In-Solo-Play)
Environmental Storytelling (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?488-Environmental-Storytelling-in-Solo-RPGs)

1.1. Storytelling the Future -NEWEST!


CDPR Game Design Philosophy and Ways to Apply It to TTRPGs (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?87329-CDPR-Game-Design-Philosophy-and-Ways-to-Apply-It-to-TTRPG)
Roles, Gigs, and Subgenres in Cyberpunk (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?87328-Roles-Gigs-and-Subgenres-Solo-Play-Article)
!WARNING: Dark Themes! Director's Guide to Cinematic Campaigns (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?87331-Director-s-Guide-to-Cinematic-Campaigns-Infographics) [Infographics / Cyberpunk]


2. Old Solo Combat Strategy Series: Old Index (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?82149-Solo-Play-Guide-for-FGU-INDEX&p=735764&viewfull=1#post735764)

Note that, The Old Index is what's in the Blog and it is lame. The New Index upstairs is for the shiny new combat guide to be released.


Solo Combat Guide - Part I (http://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?464-Solo-Combat-Strategy-Guide) / Basics
Solo Combat Guide - Part II (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?466-Solo-Combat-Guide-Part-II) / Foundations
Solo Combat Guide - Part III (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?469-Solo-Combat-Strategy-Guide-Part-III) - Theory (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?469-Solo-Combat-Strategy-Guide-Part-III) / Strategy & Tactics in Theory


Anthology of Topics:


Theater of Mind in Combat (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?467-Theater-of-Mind-in-Combat)
Action Economy (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?470-Solo-Combat-Guide-Action-Economy)

3. Dungeon Cartographer: Experimental Series

Note: On halt until I find a new place other than the Blogs to publish these. Griogre's Random Dungeon Tiles and Descriptions (https://forge.fantasygrounds.com/shop/items/2314/view) does a better job.


Introduction to Random Dun-Gen (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?489-Creating-Random-Dungeons-Manually-Intro)
Toolbox Template & Dungeon Room Descriptions (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?490-Dungeon-Cartographer-2-Text-Gen-of-Dungeons-(Toolbox-amp-DRD)) (Text Gen)
Demo Playthrough #1 (Text-Gen Only)
Dungeon Architecture Pictionary (Google Docs Sheet)
Making Tileset Image Tables (Filenames.txt is here)
Demo Playthrough #2 (Tileset Image-Gen Only)
Adding Encounter Tables (Non/Combat, Traps)
Demo Playthrough #3 (Combining All)
The Refined Method: Start with this for quick play
BONUS: Environmental Storytelling Demo Play
Dun-Gen CHEAT SHEET

4. Alternative Ways To Play Solo


Engaging In Problem Solving With Solo Play (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?451-Engaging-in-Problem-Solving-with-Solo-Play): This method is what I use to gain insight on any problem with what I call "Wisdom Through Fictional Conflict." Just like writers do. Sometimes it gives me eureka moments but sometimes it frustrates me. IT'S NOT FOR EVERYONE!
SOON! "Guide to Creating Stories with Cards." With Tarot Reading (https://forge.fantasygrounds.com/shop/items/2937/view) [Done but WIP for upgrades] by jkeller (https://forge.fantasygrounds.com/crafter/448/view-profile). Inspiration Source: How To Build An Adventure with The Deck of Many Things (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZQsM9cvWxZk)

[Tempered7]

I'm hijacking this post. I need your clothes, your bullet points and your server hamster. ~ Arnold Temperzenegger after using up 10k word limit :(
ALL RESOURCES


Things You Can Do For FREE in FGVTT (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?86773-Things-You-Can-Do-For-Free-in-FGVTT) - TONS of FREE Stuff for All Kinds of Rulesets!
[PAID] ALL Solo RPG Sources for FGVTT (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?87174-SOLO-RPG-Resources-for-FGU) - WIP - Will be a review repository when it grows up. :)
How to Keep It Short and Simple? By Killing Your Darlings (http://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?455-K-I-S-S-It-By-Killing-Your-Darlings). 12 min video from Corkboards & Curiosities
Free PDF Alone Against the Flame - Call of Cthulhu Solo (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?447-Alone-Against-The-Flame-Call-of-Cthulhu-Solo)
Free PDF SoloDark Oracle (https://www.thearcanelibrary.com/collections/shadowdark-rpg/products/solodark-solo-rules-for-shadowdark-rpg-pdf)
Free Dungeon Tileset (https://www.drivethrurpg.com/en/product/466183/flextale-flexcrawl-tile-theme-pack-dng-01-dungeon-walls) by FlexTale
Free ​Forgotten Adventures Mapmaking Pack: 140.000+ assets HERE (https://www.forgotten-adventures.net/product/map-making/assets/core-mapmaking-pack/) in patreon. No more nagging from google.
Free / 1$ - World Map Hex Tiles (https://2minutetabletop.com/product/world-map-hex-tiles/).


CHEAT SHEETS


Starter Cheat Sheet (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?462-Starter-Cheat-Sheet-1) (Rules, 1st Scene, Gameplay Modes, RP Styles, Core Loop, Story Mechanics, How to utilize the mechanics)
Player / GM Approach (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?463-2-Approaches-Cheat-Sheet) - [ In-app Example Pic (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=61862&d=1725268962) ]
Methodology (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?475-Methodology-Cheat-Sheet)
Playing Published Adventures (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?476-Playing-Published-Adventures-Cheat-Sheet)
Inspiration & Personalization (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?477-Inspiration-amp-Personalization-Cheat-Sheet)
Exploration I & II (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?478-Exploration-I-amp-II-Cheat-Sheets)
Hex-Crawl (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?479-Hex-Crawl-Cheat-Sheet)

Battlefield Mainframe (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/blog.php?cp=6): COMBAT HUB FOR SOLO RPGS

Soon...ish


Solo Playground (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/blog.php?cp=8): WORKBOOK FOR THE GUIDES

Soon...er, maybe.


Multichannel Chip Chat (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/blog.php?cp=5): SOLO A.I. PODCASTS

Now that AI can create podcasts AS IF two guys talking about a subject, I decided to use it for the guide while John Connor looks at me in disappointment.


Podcast #1 (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?480-Solo-AI-Podcast-1-Welcome-to-Solo-RPGs-Padawan): For newcomers.
Podcast #2 (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?481-Solo-AI-Podcast-2-Long-Discussion-on-Intermediate-Methods): For intermediate players.
Podcast #3 (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?482-Solo-AI-Podcast-3-12-Minutes-of-Advanced-Examples): For experts, with more examples than explanations.
Podcast #4 (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?483-Solo-AI-Podcast-4-GM-Approach-with-Flattery-(Ha!)): For Beginner Solo GMs.
Podcast #5 (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?484-Solo-AI-Podcast-5-GM-Approach-Part-2-with-FGU-Ad): For Intermediate Solo GMs.
Podcast #6: For Expert Solo GMs. Waiting for New Combat Guide to release...

NEW! FIGHTER THEMED PODCASTS


How math creates better D&D stories (https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/7lzvlzmhodybvslslkgum/Why_math_creates_better_D-D_stories.m4a?rlkey=kokgfvaz70wi1rzzl2t93ilbn&st=8s6ia43q&dl=0)? Examining Solo Goliath BattleMaster (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?82149-Solo-Play-Guide-for-FGU-INDEX&p=761467&viewfull=1#post761467) build.
Hardening the Avalanche Engine (http://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/orxecfa9uls2nql8c3mgg/Hardening_the_Avalanche_Engine_Goliath.m4a?rlkey=y 0r7zniyyejo2kt2blv7w56g1&st=14l1ojsx&dl=0). Gaps in the Goliath BattleMaster and almost all pure melee builds and my suggestions for fixing them.
Ranged Supremacy. On avoidance and raining down bullets. Battlefield Supremacy through being unreachable while having the longest reach. With insight from the upcoming DnD 5E Combat Guide.

NEW! SHATTERING THE STORMWIND FALLACY

The Stormwind Fallacy (https://www.reddit.com/r/dndnext/comments/2i9aqg/the_stormwind_fallacy_repost/) is the divisive misconception that mechanical character optimization and deep roleplaying are mutually exclusive, falsely suggesting that a powerful build inherently lacks narrative depth and vice versa. Synthesis Approach solves this problem by combining the cold, mathematical optimization with narrative depth directly tied to the mechanics of a meta-build.



Synthesis Approach AI Podcast 1

5vnEasD0Zyg
Synthesis Approach AI Podcast 2

BBQMxtmvym4

[Tempered7]

EDIT: Previous Original Post moved here.

Added to: Cheapest-and-Quickest-Way-for-Solo-Play (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?413-Cheapest-and-Quickest-Way-for-Solo-Play)
* JimSocks' Content Generator 2020
* DndSpeak 100 Tables
* Sellers Shop (Tables with BG Pic and Item Pins)
All of them are Pay what you want except the Content Creator is a free module for FGU.


OP:

New Section Deep Dive is ready with its first item:


WHY & HOW to Utilize Story Mechanics (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?438-Why-amp-How-to-Utilize-Story-Mechanics) - 25/07/2024

Also, a pay what you want Name Gen Onomatology (https://www.dmsguild.com/product/212358/Onomatology) added to the Cheap & Quick Way (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?413-Cheapest-and-Quickest-Way-for-Solo-Play).

[Tempered7]

Added: Exploration Part II (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?439-Exploration-In-Solo-Mode-Part-II)(Create-as-you-go) in the 3 Pillars Section.

[Tempered7]

Added: 2 Approaches to Solo Play - NEW


GM Approach (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?440-GM-Approach-to-Solo-Play) & Exercises for GM Approach (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?441-Exercises-For-GM-Approach-to-Solo-Play)
Player Approach - WIP

[Tempered7]

Added to 2 Approaches to Solo Play

Player Approach Part I (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?442-Player-Approach-to-Solo-Play-Part-I) & Part II (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?443-Player-Approach-to-Solo-Play-Part-II) & Muses (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?444-Muses-for-the-Solo-Player) // NEW 06/08/2024


Part 1: About characters and their quests in the context of inspiration.
Part 2: About places and conflicts in the context of inspiration. Also environmental storytelling and personalization of all these.
Muses: Music, questioning, lists for inspiration.

[Tempered7]

Added to Deep Dive Section: Conflict Types (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?445-Conflict-Types-for-the-Solo-GM) & Ian Irvine's Conflict Creation Methods
(https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?446-Irvine-s-Sixty-Ways-to-Create-Conflict)

[Tempered7]

Conjuring Sparks from Themes (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?449-Conjuring-Thematic-Sparks-In-Solo-Play) & My Table of Thematic Words (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?450-My-List-of-Thematic-Words)

Methods to use themes in both creative AND therapeutic way in Solo Mode.


Added to the the Deep Dive section. 11/08/2024.

[superteddy57]

Love this! I'm an avid solo gamer nowadays and this has some great older advice I've picked up and some great new things to try. Thanks for putting this together.

[Tempered7]

Love this! I'm an avid solo gamer nowadays and this has some great older advice I've picked up and some great new things to try. Thanks for putting this together.

You're welcome. :) I'm so glad that you loved it! More will come until I run out of topics.

[Tempered7]

Added to EPILOGUE:


Engaging In Problem Solving With Solo Play (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?451-Engaging-in-Problem-Solving-with-Solo-Play)


This method is what I use to gain wisdom on my or world's problems through something I call "Wisdom Through Fictional Conflict."

[Tempered7]

Added to Deep Dive:

Creating Plot Twists On-The-Go
(https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?452-Creating-Plot-Twists-On-The-Go)
A 4-Steps Method based on;
QwZKD1AWIYM

[Tempered7]

Added to INTRO:

Start Playing With This Demonstration (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?453-Start-Playing-With-This-Demonstration) (You learn all the rules & schmules later).

This is for complete newcomers.

[Tempered7]

ADDED to 3 Pillars In Solo Play: Exploration Part III (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?454-Exploration-in-Solo-Mode-III) (Hex-Crawling) [Includes obstacle creation methods] ADDED 16/08/2024

[Tempered7]

Added to resources in the blog: KISS IT by Killing your darlings (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?455-K-I-S-S-It-By-Killing-Your-Darlings).

Main page is too bloated. Word count...

[Tempered7]

UPDATE 1: Cheap & Quick Way (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?413-Cheapest-and-Quickest-Way-for-Solo-Play-in-FGU): I was testing JimSocks' Content Gen 2020 for modulization of my guide and I'm having problems on generating from templates. It might be because I borked the campaign by first loading extensions then removing them. Or the gen is old and the new theme update has conflicts with it. DndSpeak tables still have enough content though. I will find a solution in the forums later.

UPDATE 2: Added in What Will I Need To Play (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?414-What-Will-I-Need-to-Play-Solo): a "A Solo RPG System" near 1. Oracle in case you want to use a system that's designed for Solo only. Can't remember much of those, though.

UPDATE 3: Added Exploration III (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?454-Exploration-In-Solo-Mode-Part-III) (Hex Crawl) Resources:



Decked Out by Saagael: https://forge.fantasygrounds.com/shop/items/910/view to use cards to introduce random encounters.
Basic Card Decks by Trenloe: https://forge.fantasygrounds.com/shop/items/97/view to use basic cards with Decked out.


UPDATE 4: Added to What Will I Need: Free Pathfinder 1e extensions

by dllewell

https://forge.fantasygrounds.com/cra...1/view-profile (https://forge.fantasygrounds.com/crafter/111/view-profile)

by Blahness98

https://forge.fantasygrounds.com/cra...8/view-profile (https://forge.fantasygrounds.com/crafter/248/view-profile)

by darrenan

PFRPG Action Library: (https://forge.fantasygrounds.com/shop/items/207/view)https://forge.fantasygrounds.com/shop/items/207/view

by dllewell

PFRPG - Races (Linked): https://forge.fantasygrounds.com/shop/items/419/view (https://forge.fantasygrounds.com/shop/items/419/view)
PFRPG - Feats Extended: https://forge.fantasygrounds.com/shop/items/1324/view (https://forge.fantasygrounds.com/shop/items/1324/view)

[LordEntrails]

You are on a roll! Good work :)

[Tempered7]

You are on a roll! Good work :)

Thanks! :) Happy to help anyone who needs guidance.

[Laerun]

Thanks! :) Happy to help anyone who needs guidance.

Would love to do some sort of show to discuss and showcase some of these things.

Laerun

[Tempered7]

Would love to do some sort of show to discuss and showcase some of these things.

Laerun

Hi Laerun. I was also thinking about making some sort of demo but unfortunately, I can't speak very well (nerve damage). You can use anything in the guide freely, though.
I will try to make a solo play (TTS or AI Voice) by using methods described here, you can also use it freely when it's done.

EDIT: But what I can do is I can make my Solo Adventure with AI Voice from the topics you want to showcase! :)

[Tempered7]

UPDATE: JimSocks' excellent content creator 2020 is working fine in my new campaign. Bad news is, I borked the old campaign where I'm writing the topics. *facepalm* :D

UPDATE 2: Unfortunately, I won't be able to make a template with other modules. Because of copyrights.

https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/VY4hToGpvUFBGjTTC3QEXw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtjZj13ZWJw/http://magazines.zenfs.com/resizer/2.0/original/29qnt9jTEH-nA01wXiF_eq3VVUI

Added to PLOT Twists: I finally found the source of this, but the usage is older than the video and I also use Red Herrings. Of course, with GreatGM's explanations it's way more enlightening. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QwZKD1AWIYM

[Tempered7]

Added to Hex Crawl Resources: Laerun's Solo Player Hexploration with ChatGPT: https://chatgpt.com/g/g-vIDKY931L-solo-hexploration

It is a free (ChatGPT) resource by Laerun to flesh out your hex-crawl maps.

61658

EDIT: You can play hex crawling with it, too. Use it as an Oracle and ask the AI questions as you would normally with an Oracle module.
BUT there is a limit for ChatGPT and when you reach it, it asks you to get Plus.

[Tempered7]

ADDED to Exploration Part II (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?439-Exploration-In-Solo-Mode-Part-II)> Line of Sight: The way to darken maps (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?82472-Darkening-a-Map-s-Sections&p=723669&viewfull=1#post723669) and remove map vision for immersion and surprise.

Check https://youtu.be/verTvYTUGyA?si=x80YsIAXA3yOvRoO&t=134 to learn how to add dynamic lightning if your map doesn't have it.


GM LAYER EDIT: It gets better! I found this GM Layer invisibility option for Solo Play. Just turn it on / off as needed. Old or imported maps might not have it though.

# Now you see me
61718

# Now you don't
61719

[Tempered7]

ADDED to Methodology:

How to Play Published Adventures Solo (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?456-How-to-Play-Published-Adventures-Solo) // NEW - 23/08/2024

[Tempered7]

EDITED in Exploration Part II (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?439-Exploration-In-Solo-Mode-Part-II): > Line of Sight > Dont bother adding LoS to maps ->



You can quickly add LoS to maps you created. 6:46 min


Gt2t-YcvCt0

[Tempered7]

Added to Comments in Play Published Adventures Solo (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?456-How-to-Play-Published-Adventures-Solo) -- these will be in the module as there is no character limit there.

Some Default Behaviors might include:

General:

Search at the beginning -> Research at the end; traps, secret doors, loot, etc...
Loot all / Never touch a dead enemy's pockets
Always walk with a drawn weapon / Only draw the weapon if necessary
Marching order (there is an option for this built in FGU)
Party torch carrier / Rely on nightvision

Combat:

Reckless / Tactical
Ranged first -> Then melee
Party Controller / Debuffer
Healer and the Healer's Protector

[Tempered7]

EDIT: It's now in 3 Pillars.

ADDED TO Oracles Section: 27/08/2024 FGU ​Hex-crawl Playtest in D&D 5E (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?457-Solo-Hex-crawl-in-FGU-Demo-Playtest-Notes)

[Tempered7]

EDIT: It's now in 3 Pillars. 27/08/2024 FGU ​Hex-crawl Playtest in D&D 5E (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?457-Solo-Hex-crawl-in-FGU-Demo-Playtest-Notes)

List of tables:

# The Adventurer's Toolbox

I couldn't find wilderness gen anywhere else, yet.

Wilderness - Random Terrain
Wilderness - Active Area Discovery
Wilderness - Overarching Terrain: Arctic
Wilderness - Overarching Terrain. Desert
Wilderness - Overarching Terrain: Forest/Jungle
Wilderness - Overarching Terrain: Grassland
Wilderness - Overarching Terrain: Hills
Wilderness - Overarching Terrain: Mountains
Wilderness - Overarching Terrain: Swamp


# DMG & Toolbox


Toolbox Story Template: Dungeon Generator
DMG Table: Exotic Location
Toolbox Story Template: NPC Generator
DMG Story Template: Random NPC Description


# JimSocks' Content Creator 2020

EDIT: Government Officials and Royal Drama is included. I completely overlooked it. Only Defenses are missing from G.U.A.R.D.S list.

## Settlements


Table: 02 - City Generator
Table: 03 - Town Generator
Table: 04 - Village Generator
Table: 16 - Travel Generators
Dungeon Starting Area


## Resources


Table: 05 - Big City Random Shops!
Table: 06 - Merchant Generator
Table: 07 - Tavern Generator
Table: 10 - Church Generator
Table: 11 - Guild Generator
Table: 12 - Secret Society Generator

[Tempered7]

RESOURCE NEWS in Blog: FlexTale's FlexCrawl Tile Theme Pack DNG-01: Dungeon Walls (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?458-FlexTale-s-FlexCrawl-Tile-Theme-Pack-DNG-01-Dungeon-Walls), a mini dungeon crawl set is currently FREE on drivethrurpg right now.

EDIT:

Like a "genius" I linked the blog twice. :D Here's the drivethru link: https://www.drivethrurpg.com/en/product/466183/flextale-flexcrawl-tile-theme-pack-dng-01-dungeon-walls

You can use it as a Solo Dungeon Crawler with the rules from the PDF, or use the tiles in FGU Map Tool to create your own dungeon.

[Tempered7]

ADDED to Deep Dive:

Consequences Table (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?459-Consequences-Table) - NEW 29/08/2024

[Tempered7]

Added to Oracles: The Adventurer's Toolbox (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?460-The-Adventurer-s-Toolbox-(Paid-Module)) (D&D 5E Only / Paid) - NEW 02/09/2024
Except for the Deep Dive part, the main part of the guide is finished with it.

Here's a pic of my usage of it. An INDEX page with tables from other sources.
61862

[Tempered7]

FGU ​Hex-crawl Playtest in D&D 5E (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?457-Solo-Hex-crawl-in-FGU-Demo-Playtest-Notes)

I'm adding the filenames of the tiles used in the playtest in case anyone wants to make tables from them, for personal use.
I also filtered out the ones that are not necessary for tables.
I tried making a table in here but long post was loooong.

Enjoy :)

Note: World Map Hex Tiles https://2minutetabletop.com/product/world-map-hex-tiles/

[Gwydion]

Great stuff. Glad to see more focus on solo gaming as I've been doing more myself. I've converted a few games into XCore for free on the forge for folks wanting to play games like 2d6 Dungeon in FGU.

[Tempered7]

Guide News: I'm slowly expanding on How to play published adventures (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?456-How-to-Play-Published-Adventures-Solo) in the comments. I was reading for it a lot and translating the methods into reading/playing FGU modules is a bit tricky.

There is also a carefree method if you don't mind spoilers. But since most people mind spoilers, I'll complete it first. It'll be compact step-by-step method as usual.

[Tempered7]

Great stuff. Glad to see more focus on solo gaming as I've been doing more myself. I've converted a few games into XCore for free on the forge for folks wanting to play games like 2d6 Dungeon in FGU.

Always good to see more Soloists.

I didn't know there was 2d6 dungeon in FGU. I'm checking it right now, and be happy to try it! It's been so long since I played dungeon crawlers like that. I was already keep hearing about 4 against darkness and wanting to try it.

Thank you so much for converting it! :)

EDIT: I couldn't find it though. Could you link it?

[Gwydion]

Always good to see more Soloists.

I didn't know there was 2d6 dungeon in FGU. I'm checking it right now, and be happy to try it! It's been so long since I played dungeon crawlers like that. I was already keep hearing about 4 against darkness and wanting to try it.

Thank you so much for converting it! :)

EDIT: I couldn't find it though. Could you link it?


Sent you a PM but also, in case you want to see it, I have a playthrough youtube video with it as well. You can find that here:

https://youtu.be/EdnErL1hebU?si=_fhYrlbXReOzXBxT

[Tempered7]

Sent you a PM but also, in case you want to see it, I have a playthrough youtube video with it as well. You can find that here:

https://youtu.be/EdnErL1hebU?si=_fhYrlbXReOzXBxT

Oh, this is extremely helpful. I immediately jumped into it and stuck at how to generate the dungeon part. It'll take time to watch the whole video. Thanks for sharing it.

[Tempered7]

ADDED to 3 Pillars:

Gwydion's 2d6 Dungeon Module Quick Start (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?461-Gwydion-s-2d6-Dungeon-Quick-Start-Guide) - NEWEST - 04/09/2024

This surprise guide will prepare you for the toughest battles in 2d6 Dungeon of Xcore ruleset.
Downloading and reading Core rules is still necessary. Videos in the Resources section explains most of the basics and combat mechanics.

[Tempered7]

ADDED to 3 Pillars:
Gwydion's 2d6 Dungeon Module Quick Start (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?461-Gwydion-s-2d6-Dungeon-Quick-Start-Guide) - NEWEST - 04/09/2024


EDITED: Forgotten Adventures Mapmaking pack https://www.forgotten-adventures.net/product/map-making/assets/mapmaking-pack/


It might be a block on Google for too many download requests. Check back later if you can't download.


Right now I can download it for the first time in more than 5 hours.

[Tempered7]

ADDED to 3 Pillars:

Gwydion's 2d6 Dungeon Module Quick Start (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?461-Gwydion-s-2d6-Dungeon-Quick-Start-Guide) - NEWEST - 04/09/2024

This surprise guide will prepare you for the toughest battles in 2d6 Dungeon of Xcore ruleset.
Downloading and reading Core rules is still necessary. Videos in the Resources section explains most of the basics and combat mechanics.


ADDED to Resources:

Reveries of the Dark - A narrative supplement for 2D6 Dungeon - Pay What You Want in Drivethru

It has tables for prompts that help to create a story about your character and the dungeon you're exploring. The rolls encourage player to write down short snippets about the character, dungeon, story and flesh out the experience. Very useful for newly started Game Masters.

https://www.drivethrurpg.com/en/product/481628/reveries-of-the-dark-a-narrative-supplement-for-2d6-dungeon

[Tempered7]

ADDED to Resources:



Starter Cheat Sheet 1 (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?462-Starter-Cheat-Sheet-1) / Rules, Modes, Scene, Core Loop, Story Mechanics, How to utilize the mechanics, RP Styles.
Player / GM Approach Cheat Sheet (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?463-2-Approaches-Cheat-Sheet)

[Tempered7]

Added to: Cheapest-and-Quickest-Way-for-Solo-Play (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?413-Cheapest-and-Quickest-Way-for-Solo-Play)

UPDATE on JimSocks' Content Generator 2020:

NOTE: There are links to Player's Handbook (2014) and Dungeon Master's Guide (2014) in the Plot Gen of JimSocks' Content Gen 2020. If you're playing with (free) SRD data, you won't be able to use the links but you still can use SRD equivalent classes, etc to create your own. Also, if you don't have DMG you won't be able to create the 2 villain classes (Anti Paladin, Evil High Priest) at all, but instead, you can create a normal Paladin & Cleric and play them mean.

I have no idea if Jim will update it for the 2024 books (or even still here), so...

Sellers Shop still works with (free) SRD data or PHB. I don't know if it'll be updated for 2024 free rules, either.
DndSpeak 100 Tables don't have links to anything so it's good.

[Tempered7]

Added to Oracles: The Adventurer's Toolbox (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?460-The-Adventurer-s-Toolbox-(Paid-Module)) (D&D 5E Only / Paid) - NEW 02/09/2024Old news for the Toolbox Module (I just noticed this because I mostly used the book version):

There are some monster links to Mordenkainen's Tome of Foes in Random Encounters section. Some CR7 ones in various categories maybe others too. If you bought the module before it's delisted, you can still use it. But if you jumped the VTT train after the modules delisted for Monsters of the Multiverse (like me), know that it doesn't seem to get updated for a while. Last update is 17-06-2019.

Also note that this book's/module's random encounter tables are only up to CR7 and for level 1-15 Solo PC or 2 PCs. There is a conversion table for playing 1 PC with easier encounters and 2 PC with slightly harder / medium encounters. The second installment "The Solo Adventurer's Toolbox Part Two: The Toolbox Expanded" completes the random encounter tables by adding stuff for level 16-20 PCs. Its last update is October 07, 2023.

I already mentioned 2014 DMG / MM links in original the post so other than that, that's it.

[Tempered7]

How to Play Published Adventures Solo (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?456-How-to-Play-Published-Adventures-Solo)

Notes on reading modules in FGU:

! Titles of pages and encounter/reward links in pages are spoilers by themselves. There is no way to avoid them. So, don't bother.

0. Hotbars: Link entire adventure book into a hotbar. This will come handy for opening and closing it quickly to avoid spoilers.* Start by only clicking the first Chat Bubble in a page to print it out. Following ones are very likely to be story/combat related ones with spoilers.

* Play it a bit if you're RPing.
* Don't look at or print other chat bubbles -if any, yet. (Need a bit ninja'ing with the eyes and hands).

# How to deal with the answers for attribute / skill checks?

1. Preparation: By knowing Background Story of the module, your PCs and their Default Behaviors well.
2. Read-fu: Never read or print second chat bubble or onwards before you read previous paragraph. They might tell you about encounters.
3. When reading paragraphs, the moment you caught a familiar term (investigation, constitution, etc), stop reading.
4. Rolls: Roll for the check and play it without looking at the chat bubble.
5. Now print the bubble and read it on chat. Your Context is what you played just before the roll.
6. Real events: Depending on the context and the result of the roll, determine what's REALLY happened. Use flashbacks or John's (from rpgnet forums) method if needed.

I now had an idea to turn it into its own mini-game: The reality is fluking and the module book is only one parallel universe.

[Tempered7]

ADDED to Deep Dive: After a break, I finally finished Solo Combat Strategy Guide (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?464-Solo-Combat-Strategy-Guide).
Squeezing everything that's related to Solo Combat into 1 article have me thinking about writing a second part.

[Tempered7]

ADDED to Deep Dive: Solo Combat Strategy Guide (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?464-Solo-Combat-Strategy-Guide).

I am thinking about this subject a lot since I started writing it and the most important KEY to Solo Combat is simply playing all the combatants according to their nature. Let me tell you why:

Whatever random combat AI tables or tactics - counter tactics tables you use, it'll all end up feel like you playing chess against yourself. Best way to retain immersion is twofold:

1) The nature of each creature -including your PC- IS the anchor for immersion. Therefore, it is needed to be understood, then applied.
2) Suspension of disbelief is maintained as long as you play combat fairly. Which is tied to the nature of combatants indirectly.
A certain hobbit: We've had 1 action, yes. But what about second action?

EDITED: 2nd Action: You can weapon attack if you didn't attack in your current turn, after you used your action for non-attack action. OR you can use a non-attack basic action if you attacked in your current turn. Use one or the other.Let me clear one thing. This is only for "attack" as in weapon attack. Not attack spells, etc.Otherwise it would be too OP even for solo as there is no limit to it (long rest, etc).

EDITED: I remixed the combat table for ease of use. From left to right:



d8 Targeting
d8 Combat Roles
d6 Variations
d6 Combat Actions

[Tempered7]

New description added to Combat Tweaks (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?434-Combat-Tweaks-for-Solo-GMs):




PAID - Random Encounter Generator - REVAMPED! 10$: https://forge.fantasygrounds.com/shop/items/126/view It has 1 or 2 PC encounter gen which is not the case for other encounter gens in the market. Most others only generate encounters for 4 PCs.



But check if it's updated as the new D&D ruleset updates broke some extensions.

[Nick Frost]

Howdy!

Just wanted to pop in to remind everyone how great this guide is. Tempered7 really did an AWESOME job!

[damned]

Just a teaser - Im working on a Sole Ruleset for FG that will generate random dungeons for you to play thru too.

[Bonkon]

Just a teaser - Im working on a Sole Ruleset for FG that will generate random dungeons for you to play thru too.

Good Day Damned :)
Awesome! As a forever DM it would be nice to play something like that :)

[Tempered7]

Hey folks. I came back after many unfortunate events.
I'm having minor health problems but that's the least of my worries.
Right after I tried to buy Mythic v2 module and failed because of Paypal problems, my Discord and Steam accounts were hacked and I had to format my PC.
I forgot to backup my password manager data so I forgot my email and website passwords, etc.

So far, I noticed my steam guides are deleted, my discord account left all my servers and joined some "shady" ones. But fortunately, this guide is intact!
I couldn't deal with it quickly because I had to rest for a month but now I've got everything back.

I will continue where I left when I get better and have time.


Howdy!

Just wanted to pop in to remind everyone how great this guide is. Tempered7 really did an AWESOME job!

Thank you :)



Just a teaser - Im working on a Sole Ruleset for FG that will generate random dungeons for you to play thru too.

This is AWESOME news! Thank you for working on it.

[damned]

Man that is terrible.

People do not understand how bad it is when you get hacked.
It really makes your life hard, it can cost you a lot of money and it takes a lot of effort to get back to some level of normal.

[Tempered7]

Man that is terrible.

People do not understand how bad it is when you get hacked.
It really makes your life hard, it can cost you a lot of money and it takes a lot of effort to get back to some level of normal.

Yeah, and it happened right after I entered my credit card info into paypal website. I was in the middle of a conversation with Mythic v2 authors.
Had a mini heart attack but nothing was stolen, cause I cancelled my card. Stress made my health worse though.

Btw, if my discord account sent anything shady to anyone, I apologize.

[Nylanfs]

So, you're saying that I won't be getting the 500% return on the $1500 in bitcoin I sent you? ;-P

[Tempered7]

So, you're saying that I won't be getting the 500% return on the $1500 in bitcoin I sent you? ;-P

LOOOL! Unfortunately, we both bankrupted :D

[Nick Frost]

Don't worry guys! Once certain Nigerian prince makes the money transfer he promised me after sharing all my bank account info with him, we'll all be rich!

[Tempered7]

Don't worry guys! Once certain Nigerian prince makes the money transfer he promised me after sharing all my bank account info with him, we'll all be rich!

WOHOOO! I will be able buy the cure-all that this very holy Indian guy sells, then! :D

[Tempered7]

26/11/2024 UPDATE:

Since Marmus gifted me Mythic v2 & UNE generously, I have so much to work on. But there is too much for the last 2 brain cells that I have left with. :D

Planned entries after new oracle reviews:

* Usage of Mythic's Scene Progression and Element Tables in Combat. This is for "Context of the Enemy" part in Combat Guide 1.
* And of course, continuation of Solo Combat Guide: I decided to separate Part 2 into 13 D&D 5e classes (but 2014 versions), each with their own counter-tactics for the things I wrote in Part 1. Strengths & Weaknesses and how to deal with them.

But it'll take some time to research them all as I always play with the same type of builds.
so I need y'all's help for determining which class to start first.

I'm opening a poll that anyone can vote for their fav class. Numbers will tell me the sequence of writing. I can only add 10 items to the poll but there are 13 classes including Artificer. So I might combine some classes together and exclude Artificer.

[Tempered7]

Added to Video Examples (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?437-Solo-Gameplay-Videos):

Wilona's Cave - Warhammer FRP

He walks you through his thought process by thinking outloud. No need to mention that it is Grim Dark and not suited for children!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QFXF7amxylg&list=PLLIELpQCksTKOLaZqW2CfCvWyu-gPkkhS&index=2 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QFXF7amxylg&list=PLLIELpQCksTKOLaZqW2CfCvWyu-gPkkhS&index=2)

QFXF7amxylg

Don't forget to vote in the poll :>

[Tempered7]

ADDED: OUR NEW CATEGORY Podcast Examples (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?465-Podcast-Examples) is online with its first item:

"Tales of Mystara" Podcast by Solo Dungeon Crawler.

It is Old School Revival stuff with BECMI Basic Dungeons & Dragons Solo ruleset. I am handpicking these podcast playlists because some of them are very 18+ with harsh themes. This has what you would expect from an OSR game. Dark Fantasy and ruthless to PCs but the mature themes stop there.

As I search for more and suitable ones, I will expand the entry.

EDIT: As usual, I forgot to mention that I moved "Ironsworn: Starforged by The Bad Spot" from video examples to Podcasts.

[Tempered7]

Solo Combat Strategy Series:


UPDATE: Solo Combat Guide Part II (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?466-Solo-Combat-Guide-Part-II) is finished. It is a template upon which I'll build class stratagems. I had to cut some parts to fit size but I will sprinkle that content into other entries. As the poll fills, I'm reading & poking my nose around every table in Toolbox 2.

Also I must say, the more I read Mythic v2 the more I am astonished by its neat presentation, highly refined new systems since v1, many MANY examples, so many ideas that addresses crucial problems in Solo Play.... V1 was already a gold mine. But v2 is PLATINUM MINE! Now I feel my practical methods is so archaic.:D

And the conversion. When Marmus said there are 400+ tables in it, I already knew it is a labor of love, but I didn't know it is loved as a favored child! I remember my time with books and pens, brrr. Hand cramps, lost d4s found by feet & pierced pages... Anyway,

Please don't forget to vote in the poll :)

[Tempered7]

Solo Combat Strategy Series:

Missing cut content added to comments in Solo Combat Guide - Part II (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?466-Solo-Combat-Guide-Part-II) while I'm at it.

[Tempered7]

Solo Combat Strategy Series:

Sorry guys. I noticed I'm actually focusing on the foundations too much and neglecting actual strategies for 1 PC. Since this is not group play, there is no actual synergetic strategies. It all depends on your current circumstance and what your class build is. So I thought I should add those in individual class entries based on basics & foundations. Counters will be taken from Basics, and strategies will be based on Foundations for each class. Also, 10k character limit forces me to spread content.

NOTE TO SELF: * Caster: [Divine]: Crit fail! I've noticed that I don't have anything to say about them. I never play them. [TO BE EDITED].

I only have 1 refined play style with few build types for my own needs but my recent research showed me that it's too restrictive and there is a world of styles for Solo.
If you want answers for the questions you have added to the guides, please write them here. I'll wait for them to accumulate and add them to respective guides.

[Tempered7]

Solo Combat Strategy Series:

UPDATE: Solo Combat Guide Part II (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?466-Solo-Combat-Guide-Part-II) - new comment.

GROUP DYNAMICS #2

By group dynamics, I mean Tank (DMG Soaker) - Damage Dealer - Skill Monkey - Healer - Magic User - Face/Social, etc. And the interaction of these in between each other & NPCs/monsters.

When playing 1 PC, many of these will be missing but that doesn't mean you will need all of them at all times. Remember, Solo Play is based on RNG. Whatever monsters are rolled for at the moment, either cover whatever weakness you have by substituting, or by playing to your strengths instead of dwelling on your weaknesses. Assume the role & concept of the class you're playing and think like them. This will make your game more than a cookie-cutter play. But I will also include OP strats into class entries.

Problem solving mindset is necessary because of this. Remember 5W1H questions? Ask them to find out about the solutions to your problems. Search the answers in the form of usable abilities, spells, items, etc; you can even "use" monsters themselves against each other. There is no such thing as "my DM doesn't allow me" in Solo.:D Go crazy! I'll try to write them in respective class entries as much as possible, but I can't foresee every problem you might have which will depend on your play style & experience. Use your imagination.



If you want answers for the questions you have added to the guides, please write them here.

[Tempered7]

Solo Combat Strategy Series:

From Solo Combat Part I (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?464-Solo-Combat-Strategy-Guide) - Basics: new comment added.


Basic Strategy

* Movement & Range


Don't deploy your villains too close to the heroes (unless they ambush)

* The reason for this is that if your enemies start first, they will reach your heroes and you'll be in disadvantage.
* If you start first, maybe you'll be in advantage but you will be too deep in the control zone of enemies as 1 PC. Be patient and let them come to you as you deal with them 1 by 1.
* If you deploy your enemies & heroes more than max movement speed / 30 feet from each other, depending on who starts first, they have to enter into the zone of control of the other and expose themselves without being able to attack. Especially if they are not ranged/caster.

You can also use this to your advantage: Move back, instead of forward and wait for them in a cover to come to you and deal with whatever comes first. But be wary of being surrounded.

Note: Solutions to this for each class will be different and be discussed in their own entries.

[Tempered7]

Solo Combat Strategy Series:

Also From Part I (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?464-Solo-Combat-Strategy-Guide) - Basics: new comment added.


Infantry deployment: As far as possible to avoid AOE & as close as possible so enemies can't run pass them: 15 feet is the magic number.

As you can guess, the mechanic I couldn't fit to mention in the entry is "Attack of Opportunity." 2 melee infantry 15 feet from each other will not allow anyone to pass 5 feet (melee reach unless with 2H reach weapon) from left, center & right while being protected from an Area of Effect attack as much as possible.

I should discuss about Control Zone of each class but I think there will be no space for it. I'll try though.

[Tempered7]

Solo Combat Strategy Series:

Added to comments in Part I (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?464-Solo-Combat-Strategy-Guide): Infantry, Ranged, Caster & Infiltration Deployment. Sorry for finishing it piece by piece. I'm rusty and also need rests in between writings. I'll compile and revise all of these in a seperate Combat guide mosdule.

Infantry Deployment

CONT.: If you are playing 1 PC: Most defensible position, such as a choke point, behind a cover, your back to a wall, etc. If you are at open field, surrounded, use your disengage action instead of attacking to tactically reposition yourself in an opportune / dangerous time to prevent damage. Get out of range, move into melee range of a lone archer, hide, or flight; live to fight another day.

Ranged Deployment (New)

* Obviously, behind cover and as far as possible within normal range while covering their rear from attacks. But it depends on the range of weapons. Indicated in Properties row, the first number is the weapon’s normal range in feet, and the second indicates the weapon’s long range. When attacking a target beyond normal range, you have disadvantage on the attack rolls. You can’t attack a target beyond the weapon’s long range.

Short Bow: 80 / 320 feet (or 25 / 97 meters).
Long Bow (heavy): 150 / 600 ft (or 45 / 180 meters). Small creatures have disadvantage on attack rolls with heavy weapons. A heavy weapon's size and bulk make it too large for a Small creature to use effectively. If encumbrance is not a problem, prefer heavy for its superior damage if your race is medium size.
Crossbow, Light: Same as Short Bow.
Crossbow, Heavy: 100 / 400 ft (or 30 / 120 meters).
Sling: 30 / 120 ft (or 9 / 35 meters). If you use a weapon that has the Ammunition property to make a melee attack, you treat the weapon as an Improvised Weapon. A sling must be loaded to deal any damage when used in this way.

Note: Numbers taken from 2014 core books.

Arcane Caster Deployment (New) spell range list updated

* Behind any kind of damage soaker and/or cover, as far from enemies as possible within shortest spell range if threat level is manageable OR within longest effective (problem solving) spell range if threat level higher than you can handle.

Full Spell List by Range: Skipped "self-only" range, https://www.dndbeyond.com/spells?page=8&sort=range
Full Spell List by Range: Skipped self+range & ranged/touch. Starting from 5ft. https://www.dndbeyond.com/spells?page=19&sort=range
Starting from more 30 ft: https://www.dndbeyond.com/spells?page=27&sort=range
(https://www.dndbeyond.com/spells?page=27&sort=range)60 ft: https://www.dndbeyond.com/spells?page=35&sort=range
90 ft: https://www.dndbeyond.com/spells?page=38&sort=range
To Mars (120-150 ft): https://www.dndbeyond.com/spells?page=43&sort=range
To infinity and beyond (300 ft, 1 mile): https://www.dndbeyond.com/spells?page=45&sort=range

Infiltration Deployment (New)

* It depends; Behind enemy lines to deal with high priority targets in silence --with an escape route planned (Assassin). OR Within enemy ranks to overthrow the whole enemy group (Spy).

Starting deployment place should always give you the element of surprise even if you start in front of enemies. Use Disengage action + Move + Cunning Action: Hide as bonus action. And following placements must be advantageous places to hide & strike from (i.e: high ground, enemy's rear).

A sure way to keep your sneak attack always enabled is to use a creature that attacks your target in melee range as per sneak attack rules; unless you have disadvantage. Find a way to acquire such a creature in prep (henchman, summon, even other monsters). So alternatively, your next placement is next to the attacking creature in melee range. OR use ranged weapons until you can't (See Ranged Deployment).

Note 1: Thrown Dagger Range is 20 / 60 ft. You can start your surprise turn by throwing a spare dagger / paralyzing dart to benefit from sneak attack before engaging in melee.

Note 2: Ranged Weapons that can enable Sneak Atk are blowguns (25/100), daggers, darts (20/60), hand crossbows (30/120), heavy crossbows, light crossbows, longbows, nets (5/15), shortbows and slings.

[Tempered7]

Solo Combat Strategy Series:

Added to comments in Part I (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?464-Solo-Combat-Strategy-Guide):

Movement

- Only move forward if there is no unmanageable threat where you'll be.
- Start by Split Movement & Fire: Move a bit (i.e: 15 of 30 ft) - Shoot (ranged) - Go back to cover.
- ENGAGEMENT: Move to a defensible position gradually instead of charging into enemies and lure them in small, controllable groups while covering yourself from ranged attacks. Or ideally, lure them 1 by 1 into a choke point and let them shoot their own friends. (You can do that, you are the GM!)
- If you are at open field, surrounded, use your Disengage Action instead of attacking to tactically reposition yourself in an opportune / dangerous time to prevent damage. Get out of range / switch to a weaker enemy / hide / or flee to fight another day.
- TACTICAL WITHDRAWAL: If you have to flee, don't do it by Dashing all the way back at once. If you have access to any utility / crowd control ways (smoke bombs, alchemist fire, invisibility potion, bag of sand), first Disengage if you're in melee, then find cover or use your full movement to go out of range if there is none. Use the CC items next turn to distract the ones that can easily lock you in melee. Only then move back from cover to cover at length of your full movement with Dash Action. Because some spells / ranged weapons ammo can run farther than you.

Range & Cover

- Calculate Range of ALL enemy Weapons before moving or acting & stand where you'll get least amount of threat while picking the highest priority target for engagement.
- To target something, one must have a clear path to it, so it can't be behind total cover.
- RULE: A target with **total cover** can't be targeted directly by an ATTACK or a SPELL, although some spells can reach such a target by including it in an area of effect (i.e: fireball but not all AoE spells). A target has total cover if it is completely concealed by an obstacle.
- Next best thing is covering 3 quarters of your PC's body for +5 bonus to AC and Dexterity saving throws. The cover might be a portcullis, an arrow slit, or a thick tree trunk.
- Or covering half of your PC's body for +2 bonus to AC and Dexterity saving throws.
- All these mean enemies bigger than you in size that are in between you and your attacker can also be used as a cover. Think in angles like a billiard player, based on weapon range to find where to stand.
- Use larger creatures as cover against casters, ranged attackers in melee engagement (especially good for artillery if the "cover" is enemy combatant).
- Don't forget Grapple Maneuver. It can be used to hold a monster with your left arm as cover against its friends while you use 1H weapon as offense if you don't have a shield.
- Dead enemies or some items can also be used as cover against arrows, direct link spells (that doesn't specifically target you), etc, if you can lift & hold / move them for a while (i.e: a barrel, a bookcase).

[Tempered7]

Solo Combat Strategy Series:

UPDATE: Solo Combat Guide Part II (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?466-Solo-Combat-Guide-Part-II) - new comment.

COMBAT STRATEGY

Strategy is the art of planning, organizing and directing overall military operations and movements in combat. It differs from tactics by staying on the theory side of things. In terms of game play, it is your overall plan to achieve your main goal by going through level progression and directing your efforts into winning your battles until the last boss is dead. This is done by thinking in terms of mobilization:

* WHAT can be used for WHICH of my specific purposes? These can be abilities and spells that your build provides, weapons, items, methods, plans, etc... Search and Gather them.
* HOW can they be organized into a coherent whole? Little jigsaw puzzle game.
* WHERE should each part be directed towards? To focus your efforts into a practical goal.
* And a general theory of HOW they can be applied into practical terms.

Know Thyself

* Strength: Typically, elements in the arsenal of your class that are most efficient for you. Sharpen & Play to them. But it doesn't always mean they are your strong side. When used against you by enemies, you become your worst enemy! "i.e: Getting charmed."

* Weakness: Supposedly, these are what makes you vulnerable for attacks from enemies with specialty to exploit them. Cover them. They don't have to be your down sides, though. When used as bait while you cover them with your Strengths, they can be deadly weapons! "i.e: Damsel in distress with a poisoned kiss."

[Tempered7]

Solo Combat Strategy Series:

UPDATE: Solo Combat Guide Part II (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?466-Solo-Combat-Guide-Part-II) - new comment.

COMBAT STRATEGY (cont.)

Know Thy Plan (NEW)

First and foremost, it is to crush your enemies, see them driven before you, and to hear the lamentations of their women, as Conan said. In order to do that, you need to survive first:

Wxi-IUnCN_8

* DETERMINE YOUR OBJECTIVE: Your battle plan should not just be limited to battle mastery. If, say, your objective as a Phlegmatic PC is to protect villagers while in combat, it would be unfair to think "ends justify means." You'd do anything to protect them first. But if you're playing Result-Oriented Pragmatist, you would use ANY way to win a battle; these may include methods that are deemed dishonorable by some.

* BASE your battle plan on WHERE you are fighting in. Is it a place you know, or is it your enemy's turf? Is the terrain in your favor? If you can't use environment to your advantage, they will. Use Reconnaissance Tactics for the perimeter and mobs within, before entering battle. And make a habit of assessing places you entered tactically at least once. Covers, ambush & choke points, hazards, light sources, hiding spots, entries & exists, secret doors, etc.

* PREPARE A Hit List: Target Priority from highest to lowest to deal with them individually. Unless you have access to Area of Effect Nukes. A Fighter can also throw fireball: Oil bottle + Alchemist's Fire. The list depends on the composition and individual Challenge Rating of the monsters in it. Also take lethal abilities into account.

1 - Monsters with Disabling Effects mean you're dead. Deal with them in a way that avoids the CC. Know the nature and appliance method of CC for it.

2 - Intelligent enemies are the deadliest. Casters, Clerics. Single them out by positioning yourself well & focusing fire with your action / bonus / reaction. Latter slot may mean they have to attack you first, raise your DEFENSES and bait them to attack you. They usually show themselves AFTER their infantry engaged in melee with you, so, before they secure their Zone of Control, use Cunning to bait the infantry into showing their hands with misdirection methods. (Send animal companion in, trigger noise far away, minor illusion, arson in their bed rooms, etc.)

3 - Enemies with highest damage & everything else comes next.

* Know What you CAN'T do in combat: Based on risk/reward factors, either don't bother with them at all if you don't want to prolong game time. OR put some effort to substitute or compensate them, if you really need them. Latter choice may mean backtrack, so do that in Prep.

* Know What you CAN do in combat: Work your way as a loner in a well-organized and competent way to resolve conflict.

* If you are better at Close Combat, start by chipping away highest priority enemy HP with ranged attacks and by other means before entering melee.
* If you are better at Ranged Combat, start by setting traps and/or disabling enemy's economy after the reconnaissance. Stealth is a must for this style in Solo.
* If you're better at Arcane Warfare, start by Pre-Buffs before the engagement. Then focus on controlling the battlefield (AoE CC infantry first). Use a damage soaker as a meat shield against whoever standing while unleashing your spells on the priority targets from high threat level to lower. If you need to get hit to take advantage of your counter-spell reaction, etc, tell the enemy caster that "his mother smells so bad that his father has a ghast mistress just to feel refreshed!"

[Tempered7]

Solo Combat Strategy Series:

# Combat Roles

I didn't add them to comments but the descriptions will be in the module.

## Melee

Any form of combat involving close proximity to and direct physical contact with an opponent, whether unarmed, using weapons or, occasionally, through other methods besides typical strikes, such as maneuvers (i.e: grapple). It is also for certain status effects (i.e: stun) that require physical contact to implement with On Hit effects.

The Mask of Zorro, training scene. 2:45
Du8HRf6pRVY

## Ranged

It involves using bows, crossbows and thrown weapons to damage opponents from a distance while in the safety of a cover or out of reach of the opponents. Status effects that can be applied with this style varies from physical poisons from an arrow to elements such as fire from a bomb.

War of Arrows (S. Korean). No subtitles but no need. Ranged Warfare Scene; 1 vs. 4.
!GRAPHIC VIOLENCE! but excellent tactics (bait, 1 stone 2 birds). 5:45
RlBOR5CnJ-c

## Caster (Arcane)

Arcane Combat is relying on magic from the Weave to be used as weapon or protection instead of traditional combat methods. These are typically spells devoted to manipulating energy, converting one substance to another, or calling on the services of other creatures.

D&D Honor Among Thieves- FINAL FIGHT; 1 -very disturbing- Thayan Wizard VS Party of 4 (Bard, Barb, Druid, Wiz). 4:45
How many spells can you identify? :D

EDIT:Oops. To hide the disturbing undead face-paint of the Thayan Wiz in thumbnail, here's the link version: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eSyy0ETtoQk

[Tempered7]

Solo Combat Strategy Series:

UPDATE: Solo Combat Guide Part II (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?466-Solo-Combat-Guide-Part-II) - new comment.

COMBAT STRATEGY (cont.)

Know The Consequences (NEW)

"No plan survives the first contact with the enemy."
~ Helmuth von Moltke.
Don't just think about your combatants' plan but also consider its CONSEQUENCES. Especially in the context of its execution for present and future time.

* "What might it cost me if I do it?"
* "Can I afford it?"

If you expect certain actions from certain enemies and base your plans according to it, RNG might blow your plans off course. For example, you might ask a question (related to combat) to your oracle and the words it give you might be interpreted in a disadvantageous way for you.

"Killing Your Darlings," (cut the excess even if you're attached to it) is not just a term used in Storytelling or World Building. Sometimes it means abandoning a plan to pursue another way to the same goal. Adaptability while sticking to a goal is the key to success in Solo Combat, because RNG is a harsh mistress.

Solution: Keep your goal in mind and if one way fails, try to find another way to achieve that goal, instead of blindly sticking to a predetermined plan. This might take trial & error if not thought out in Battle Prep, and cost you many dead PCs. Embrace it. One thing is certain that it'll teach you Warfare in a solid way. You may forget battles you won, but you never forget the reason of defeats if you lose something important because of it.

[Tempered7]

Solo Combat Strategy Series:

ADDED TO: Solo Combat Guide Part II (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?466-Solo-Combat-Guide-Part-II) - comment #3.

GROUP DYNAMICS # 1

Group Roles

* Tank: Damage Soaker. It is not efficient to play this role with 1 PC in Solo Mode. Unless you want to RP or learn about the role with sidekicks as Damage Dealers.
* Damage Dealer: This is the preferred type in Solo but not without building your PC to cover weaknesses by borrowing from other dynamics or other sources.
* Skill Monkey: Problem Solver in and out of Combat with a range of skills. Typically Bard & Rogue.
* Healer: Also not recommended to go full healer (1 PC) without any type of damage source. Can be compensated by potions, scrolls, henchmen. Unless you want to RP or learn about the role. This is harder to play solo because you'll also need to play 1 Tank + 1 DD but if you really want to be a Healer Specialist, you'd want to learn about those, anyway.
* Magic User: Typically, Glass Cannon (Arcane) but can be temporarily tanky with certain spells. In case of Druids (Divine), can be versatile through Shapeshift (Tank or DD) or use heal and damage spells as a caster. In case of other Divine Casters, they can combine Hand-to-hand Combat with spells to buff, heal or aid themselves & hinder or damage their opponents.
* Face/Social: Typically Bard, otherwise different CHA classes with different styles. Sometimes you need to avoid combat or gain access to certain benefits with a silver tongue (entrance to enemy den, removing a coward enemy from combat tracker).

NOTE: As you can imagine, Solo Play is also a great way to master your role along with synergies of other roles.

[Tempered7]

COMBAT STRATEGY (cont. #3)

# Resource Management added to bottom comments in Solo Combat Guide - Part II (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?466-Solo-Combat-Guide-Part-II).

It contains ways for Managing Game/Combat Mechanics in the context of real world Game-Time Management as well as combating problems caused by wrong approach to Solo Mode.

Believe it or not, this is still Part II.

[Tempered7]

ADDED:


Solo Combat Guide - Part III (Soloing in Practice)
Anthology of Topics

Theater of Mind in Combat (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?467-Theater-of-Mind-in-Combat) (Art of Imagination. Not necessarily visualizing, though.) Not to bloat Part II, I created another entry for it.

[Tempered7]

ADDED to Oracles:

Took a break from Combat Guide to finish Mythic Game Master Emulator v2 (Paid Module) (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?468-Mythic-Game-Master-Emulator-v2-(Paid-Module)) Review.

It is such a beauty, especially in module form!

I can't help but send Tana Pigeon my best regards for sharing Mythic with us. v1 has shaped my life in a positive way! *sniff* I'm not crying, nostalgia stuck in my eyes. :')

And of course I thank Marmus once again for his hardwork and generosity! :) I am so grateful to both of you.

[Tempered7]

ADDED to Oracles:

Mythic Game Master Emulator v2 (Paid Module) (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?468-Mythic-Game-Master-Emulator-v2-(Paid-Module)) Review.

Oops, as a strongly rooted tradition, once again I forgot to add Fate Roll pic: :D

1st second edit: Aaand, the link is corrected.

62867

[Tempered7]

ADDED to Strategy Series:

Today's last work is Solo Combat Guide - Part III (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?469-Solo-Combat-Strategy-Guide-Part-III) (Solo Combat in Theory & Practice).

I summarized key points of solo strategy & solo tactics based on my adaptation of respective military versions.
Practice & example battles will be added to comments, later.

Note: I'll shave some parts off of Zone of Control (for part I) tomorrow and add it to the blog instead of making it exclusive to the module.

ALSO EDITED:

COMBAT ROLES (cut content) in Part II:

* Caster: [Divine]: EDIT: Clerics, Paladins, Druids; I categorize Rangers as Ranged and/or Infiltration class. My experience with these classes are limited to none. But I can presume that they can be good tanky frontline combatants or powerful casters/self-healers. So I think if you don't have a solo class in mind, yet, you can safely pick one of these and enjoy being a paramedic for yourself while dishing mid(?) damage from your weapon attacks. According to what I've read so far, Divine warfare revolves around the use of divine magic and abilities granted by deities or devotion to a divine cause. It emphasizes the fusion of martial combat and divi powers to fulfill a sacred mission or fight against supernatural forces. So, their "holy" nature can be a foundation to your PC's combat style: Their sacred texts / divine prophecies can provide crucial info about an enemy as to ways of defeating it, its weaknesses, etc. Unless, you just want to be a tanky fighter/caster as a self-ambulance to cover all your bases.

[Tempered7]

Hey, folks. That was a looong "tomorrow", I know. I failed all my Will Saves against Path of Exile 2 but good news is I've learned many things from it regarding Tactical Combat, especially working around stupid circumstances caused by weird design.

Anyway, both Solo Methods & Combat Guide Modules are almost finished except what's W.I.P. I tidied the Combat Guide module up and made it pretty so you don't have to be exposed to my chaos. :D

Here's the (current & planned) Combat Guide sections before I start writing individual Solo Class Guides -check comments for continuation:

(Note: Underlined items are WIP)



Solo Combat Strategy Part I (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?464-Solo-Combat-Strategy-Guide)
Solo Combat Strategy Part II (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?466-Solo-Combat-Guide-Part-II)
Solo Combat Strategy
Part III (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?469-Solo-Combat-Strategy-Guide-Part-III)


* Meta-Game
* Lack of Group Dynamics

* Action Economy

* Context of the Enemy

* Strategy & Tactics
** Basic Strategy
*** Movement & Range

** Deployment
*** Infantry Deployment
*** Ranged Deployment
*** Arcane Caster Deploy
*** Infiltration Deployment

** Zone of Control

* Enemy Categories
* Enemy Types
* Consequences

* Combat Target Table

* Who Wins the Battle?
* ROLEPLAYING COMBAT
* PERSONALITY & TEMPERAMENT

* COMBAT ROLES
** Melee / Ranged / Infiltration
** Arcane / Divine / Hybrid

* GROUP DYNAMICS
** Group Roles
** Group Dynamics

* ACTION ECONOMY (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?470-Solo-Combat-Guide-Action-Economy) +!
** Action Economy
** Action Budgeting Solutions
** Slot Types
** Basic Maff
** Econ Warfare - 101

* COMBAT STRATEGY
** Know Thyself
** Know Thine Enemy
** Know Thine Plan (New)
** Know The Consequences

* Resource Management


* Theory of Solo Combat Strategy

* Theory of Solo Combat Tactics

* Practice of Solo Combat

** Solo Combat in Practice
** One-Man-Army
*** Fight Based on Inspiration
*** Fight Based on Math
*** Fight Based on Conversion +!!
** Example Battle
** FAQ

* On Bestiary in Solo Combat

** What do monsters mean (tactically) to a single PC?
*** Monster Type behavior summaries




NOTE 2: There is a WHAT'S NEW section in the module 'cause I took the liberty of adding some stuff to existing parts. Oh, and monster counter-tactics will be in individual class guides (briefly generalized stuff).

Traditional First Minute EDITS:

* ACTION ECONOMY (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?470-Solo-Combat-Guide-Action-Economy) +! = This is the full module version for neat reading. In Part II, it's too chaotic.

** Fight Based on Conversion +!! = Anthology of Topics > Experimental Reading of Combat Rules // Words & Digits to Dreams Conversion. WIP.

NOTE 3: If you guys want any type of topic under Solo Combat Umbrella to be covered, leave a comment here and I'll write about it. Or if you have any questions, leave a comment and I'll add the answer to the FAQ in Part III.

[Tempered7]

# FAQ (subject to expansion)

1. What is a good, universal starting gear for Solo?

2. How to gather intel about terrain or enemies without meta gaming?

3. IF No plan survives the first contact with the enemy then why have a plan?

4. How to reduce missed attacks?

5. How to gain advantage for attacks & spells?

6. What are the ways to leave enemies in disadvantage?

...

EDITED: Apparently basic counting is hard for me LOOL :D

[claedawg]

4. IF No plan survives the first contact with the enemy then why have a plan?

Because it easier to riff off of a plan than it is to approach a dangerous situation with no plan at all.

[Tempered7]

4. IF No plan survives the first contact with the enemy then why have a plan?

Because it easier to riff off of a plan than it is to approach a dangerous situation with no plan at all.

Exactly.

As long as you have a goal in combat, the plan to achieve that goal can be adapted or improvised.
This goal is usually kill or be killed, but there may also have objectives & considerations other than just killing monsters. (i.e: leave 1 of them alive for interrogation = no AoE).
Knowing the place & enemies make the improvisation part easier. Especially if you have something in your arsenal that is a counter for their weaknesses.
So improvisation or adaptation of the plan will be based on this goal.

[Tempered7]

Note to self:

TO-DO: Start Fighting With This Demo. (Same as the Start playing demo. Newcomer friendly. Non-FGU.) Based on Rule of Cool.

EDIT: Oh, and Start Being Creative With This Demo! hehe. (I'll turn it into a game with 1 rule).
DONE

EDIT 2: Make a Be Creative Demo with COMBAT RULES ONLY.

EDIT 3: Relations variation for Perspective Tables

[Tempered7]

ADDED: A Fun Little Game with 1 Rule Start Being Creative With This Demo (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?471-Start-Being-Creative-With-This-Demo) added into Intro.

Note: There is no secret cow level.

[Tempered7]

Usage of Be Creative Demo in The Module:

https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=63333&stc=1&d=1738071303

[Tempered7]

Note to self: Current queue of the poll.

1. Fighter - 14
2. Casters - 4 (I shouldda separated them but Sorc / Wiz are almost the same thing anyway).
3. Paladin - 3
4. Rogue - 3
5. Ranger - 2
6. Dudu - 1
7. Monk - 1

[LordEntrails]

# FAQ (subject to expansion)

1. What is a good, universal starting gear for Solo?

3. How to gather intel about terrain or enemies without meta gaming?

4. IF No plan survives the first contact with the enemy then why have a plan?

5. How to reduce missed attacks?

6. How to gain advantage for attacks & spells?

7. What are the ways to leave enemies in disadvantage?

...


AS always, it depends. But weapons, food, exploration gear (rope, torches, spikes, etc). At higher levels, disposable magic that can help with one-off challenges/blockers like find/detect and knock. And healing.
?
I don't think you can unless the adventure is designed for solo play. A hexploration type adventure where the DM doesn't know what's in the next hex prevents everyone from metagaming. But for a dungeon or city, I think you have to assume to some degree metaknowledge. If the maps already have LOS and the you only view the maps on a player instance of the client it should work. Or maybe Player Vision PReview turned on? But their will always be that moment of full map reveal.
So that you know in general what your allies are going to try and do. In solo play, I think the other comment about just having an objective is all you need.
Change the odds. But why? To speed up combat? Just give everyone a 10-20% bonus. But this can greatly work against the PC since they will usually be outnumbered.
Suprise? Or situational.
Spells or effects. Or situational.

[Tempered7]

1. What is a good, universal starting gear for Solo?

3. How to gather intel about terrain or enemies without meta gaming?

4. IF No plan survives the first contact with the enemy then why have a plan?

5. How to reduce missed attacks?

6. How to gain advantage for attacks & spells?

7. What are the ways to leave enemies in disadvantage?




AS always, it depends. But weapons, food, exploration gear (rope, torches, spikes, etc). At higher levels, disposable magic that can help with one-off challenges/blockers like find/detect and knock. And healing.
?
I don't think you can unless the adventure is designed for solo play. A hexploration type adventure where the DM doesn't know what's in the next hex prevents everyone from metagaming. But for a dungeon or city, I think you have to assume to some degree metaknowledge. If the maps already have LOS and the you only view the maps on a player instance of the client it should work. Or maybe Player Vision PReview turned on? But their will always be that moment of full map reveal.
So that you know in general what your allies are going to try and do. In solo play, I think the other comment about just having an objective is all you need.
Change the odds. But why? To speed up combat? Just give everyone a 10-20% bonus. But this can greatly work against the PC since they will usually be outnumbered.
Suprise? Or situational.
Spells or effects. Or situational.



1. Yes. One addition to those is treating the solo game as video game and starting with HP potions, An antidote, and a Lesser Restoration potion. Not to mention a mule that can carry all of these. Be it a bag of holding, a horse, etc.

2. I don't know what happened but at the moment Basic counting was too hard for me :D LOL

3. In group games, rogues and rangers or familiars can be sent forward for this job, unless you don't want to split the party. But in solo play, all kinds of game devices can be used for this. NPC spies, wizard's moving eye spell (I forgot the name), etc. Now thinking, Hexploration part you mentioned and "I think you have to assume to some degree metaknowledge." is well thought.

4. Yeah. BUT... https://img-9gag-fun.9cache.com/phot...W_460svav1.mp4 (https://img-9gag-fun.9cache.com/photo/aKGGMEW_460svav1.mp4) xD Also, I expanded the considerations & objectives parts in the module.

5. I was thinking about adding the ways of exceeding enemy DC with bonuses from various rules (feats, etc) and of coursr advantage + disadvantage both to tie it to next questions. Especially after playing Baldur's Gate 3 where every attack is a miss. It will be all in the module after I quit procrastinating and read the rules :D

6. In addition to surprise, other combat rules such as status effects (prone, stun), Guiding Bolt, and Stealth / Invisibility, etc. The rule of thumb in Solo Mode is "Most of the class specific things that gives an advantage can and should be used in other forms such as potions, scrolls, etc."

7. Yes. Another rule of thumb in Solo Mode where there is no room for mistakes is that "You've got to think ways to give yourself an advantage WHILE giving your targets disadvantage." Answers in the module will explore these ways and I also add those in individual class guides. Under "What a [Class] CAN Do?" part.

[Tempered7]

ADDED: A Fun Little Game with 1 Rule Start Being Creative With This Demo (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?471-Start-Being-Creative-With-This-Demo) added into Intro.

Note: There is no secret cow level.


Completely New Way of Being Creative:

1. Make a list of things that you don't like,
2. Turn it into a random table and replace it with Fun Part (Perspectives) table,
3. Use it with Step 1 or Alt. Step 1 in this guide,
4. BUT this time, think about the things you want to change in them.

Another Tip to Play the Game:

Start from the d100 roll, and pick / roll for content tables as you see fit with your d100 result.


# 3 Tips For Stimulating Creativity:

Vision: Dim the Lights a bit. It helps stimulating the inner eye.
Hearing: Close your eyes and Listen !Actively!, meaning, pay attention to the volume, tone, intensity, etc of the sounds you're hearing and try to understand what emotion they're reflecting.
Smell: Whatever the smell of an aroma you want to explore, divide it into small pieces, and then smell.


Some of the many creativity techniques:

Brainstorming: A classic method that involves generating a large number of ideas in a short period, without worrying about the quality or feasibility of the ideas. This technique encourages free thinking and helps you explore different possibilities and perspectives.

Mind mapping: A visual technique that involves creating a diagram to represent ideas, concepts, or tasks. By visually connecting related ideas, you can gain a better understanding of complex problems and discover new connections and insights.

Reverse thinking: A technique that involves challenging traditional assumptions and thinking about a problem from an entirely different perspective. By examining a problem from a different angle, you can identify new solutions and ideas.

Lateral thinking: A method that encourages thinking outside the box and finding unconventional solutions to problems. Lateral thinking techniques can involve using analogies, asking provocative questions, and exploring paradoxes.

[Tempered7]

One of the things you can do with Creative Freeform Association:


Freestyle singing:
No need to be super-duper like this guy, just rhyme or sing to your heart's content by using predetermined few words or sentences.
Remember the ways of personalization of PCs, quest, places, etc. in the Player Approach? One of the ways is Doodles (incl. singing a made up song)
You can also write lyrics or stories in Stream of Consciousness method, and edit later.


Ad after 2:58 (Song's end)
mk5RkqAy1KA

Edit: It was 2:58 not 3:17

[Tempered7]

ADDED to VIDEOS (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?437-Solo-Gameplay-Videos): The Dragon Slayer - a Four Against Darkness campaign by luckyszilvi

This one is played in a hex-map with 4AD Ruleset. I think the map is made with Web-based Hex map gen: https://hextml.playest.net/
(https://hextml.playest.net/)It is not entirely digital tabletop so you'll see many paper sheets being edited on the spot.
Unfortunately, I couldn't find a playlist for it, so I added links to other parts istead.

ss4zeFKHafs

Part 2: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5SFBqOlzCzE
Part 3: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2tCdh7V53xg
Part 4: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XKn1q8mFcaA (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XKn1q8mFcaA)
Part 5: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SvO06EH3uXw

[Tempered7]

ADDED TO PODCASTS (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?465-Solo-Gameplay-Podcasts): The Official Ironsworn RPG Podcast

A semi-regular podcast dedicated to the Ironsworn tabletop roleyplaying game, with creator Shawn Tomkin and occasional guests. Ironsworn is an RPG setting written Solo Play or COOP without GM in mind. Digital PDF books are free in https://www.ironswornrpg.com/downloads.

https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/ep-logo/pbblog6407071/ask-the-oracle-podcast_300x300.jpg

1: From the Ashes - Building a World
(https://ironsworn.podbean.com/e/building-a-world/)2: From the Ashes - Creating Characters (https://ironsworn.podbean.com/e/from-the-ashes-creating-characters/)
3: From the Ashes - Onward to Rockfall (https://ironsworn.podbean.com/e/3-from-the-ashes-onward-to-rockfall/)
4: From the Ashes - Of Boars and Men (https://ironsworn.podbean.com/e/4-from-the-ashes-of-boars-and-men/)
5: From the Ashes - Lost Truth (https://ironsworn.podbean.com/e/5-from-the-ashes-lost-truth/)
6: From the Ashes - Defending Rockfall (https://ironsworn.podbean.com/e/6-from-the-ashes-defending-rockfall/)
7: From the Ashes - A Giant Problem (https://ironsworn.podbean.com/e/7-from-the-ashes-a-giant-problem/)
8: From the Ashes - The Temple of Denua (https://ironsworn.podbean.com/e/8-from-the-ashes-the-temple-of-denua/)
9: From the Ashes - Swords and Pillars (https://ironsworn.podbean.com/e/9-from-the-ashes-swords-and-pillars/)

Part 1: In this inaugural episode of the official podcast for the Ironsworn tabletop roleplaying game, Shawn and guest Matt Click prepare for their journey into the Ironlands. Together, they take a look at Ironsworn's world-building exercise and craft the details of their setting.

Part 2: In Episode 2 of the official podcast of the Ironsworn tabletop RPG, Join Shawn and Matt as they create characters and take a first step into the bleak world of their 'From the Ashes' co-op campaign.

Note: In hopes of someone brings the ruleset and books to FGU. I' m counting on you coding-wizards of SmiteWorks. :)

[Tempered7]

ADDED TO PODCASTS (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?465-Solo-Gameplay-Podcasts): Legend of the Bones by Simon

https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/image-logo/13491194/LotB_New_Logo_2024_3000x3000_vg4472_300x300.jpg

! For Mature Audience ! Frequent detailed descriptions of violence and other mature themes. Listener Discretion Is Advised.

Grim, Gritty and Grounded! Legend of the Bones is a hybrid of solo Old School Dungeons & Dragons actual play, and dark fantasy audio drama. A story where the roll of the bones determines all. None shall escape the destiny of bone. Played on 1981 D&D Basic Expert Rules with few house rules.

Too many Episodes: https://legendofthebones.podbean.com/
His Blog: https://legendofthebones.blogspot.com/2022/05/ with character art, addendum, etc.

[Tempered7]

One Last Resource ADDED TO:

Exploration Part III (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?454-Exploration-in-Solo-Mode-III) (Hex-Crawling) / Obstacle creation


Resource: Solo RPGs: Why Mindset and Worldbuilding Come FIRST (Featuring Sandbox Generator, Solodark) (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c9OgeOTAZ4s) Youtube video 28 mins.


c9OgeOTAZ4s

00:00 - Intro
00:30 - Your Mindset is Key ('Prep is Play')
01:23 - Sandbox Generator, Shadowdark Ruleset
02:05 - Sandbox Terrain Generation Procedure
06:38 - Feature Generation
11:11 - Influence and Factions
13:43 - Name Generation Procedure
15:13 - Insight moment 1
15:48 - Name Generation, cont'd.
18:11 - Landmarks and Lairs Generation
23:54 - Tying it all Together
24:11 - Insight moment 2
25:44 - Finding the SPARK for your game's beginning
26:53 - Teaser for next episode

[Marmus]

ADDED to Oracles:

Took a break from Combat Guide to finish Mythic Game Master Emulator v2 (Paid Module) (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?468-Mythic-Game-Master-Emulator-v2-(Paid-Module)) Review.

It is such a beauty, especially in module form!

I can't help but send Tana Pigeon my best regards for sharing Mythic with us. v1 has shaped my life in a positive way! *sniff* I'm not crying, nostalgia stuck in my eyes. :')

And of course I thank Marmus once again for his hardwork and generosity! :) I am so grateful to both of you.

FYI - I was asked about setting up the Mythic module items within FG, so I created this video:
https://youtu.be/78SAwvvhwDQ

[Tempered7]

FYI - I was asked about setting up the Mythic module items within FG, so I created this video:
https://youtu.be/78SAwvvhwDQ

EDIT: Oops, I forgot to say. I added this video at the end of the entry.
Our New Category GM's Tome of Experiments (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/blog.php?638973&blogcategoryid=33) is created with its first item To separate Actual Plays from GM side of things about the sessions. My notes will reside here.

"Experiments with TTS & AI Voice (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?472-Experiments-with-TTS-amp-AI-Voice)"

I turned GM Approach into AI Voice file with Morgan Freeman style narrator voice.

[Tempered7]

ADDED: Thematic Muses For Everyone - A for Actionhttps://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?473-Thematic-Muses-For-Everyone-A-for-Action

Some songs for action themes in the Theme Table with a new way of using inspiration you might get from any media.
Next: Songs for Story Themes in the table.

[Tempered7]

ADDED TO Deep Dive > Storytelling Articles:

Creative Usage of Time In Solo Play (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?474-Creative-Usage-of-Time-In-Solo-Play)

Note: 1 more and the module is ready! :>

[Tempered7]

# Ode to Heroes and Heroines (Player Approach Part I (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?442-Player-Approach-to-Solo-Play-Part-I))

ADDENDUM IN THE MODULE:

* 1. Choose a base character: This can be a favorite character, someone you've created, or even a fictional character from a book or movie.

* 2. Identify traits and characteristics: Think about the character's key traits and characteristics. These can be physical attributes, personality traits, or habits. For example, Drizzt, R. A. Salvatore's most beloved character, is a dark elf in a race that commits atrocities against each other for power. Despite being born in Menzoberranzan, the Underdark, where his race is known for their hate towards surface elves, Drizzt possesses kindness and warmth.

* 3. Find synonyms or antonyms: For each trait, find an opposite that contrasts with it. In Drizzt's case, he could be compared to a dark elf who is cruel and power-hungry, representing the opposite of his kind-hearted nature. - OR - find a synonym word for a trait and use it to provide Structure or Stability.

* 4. Exaggerate, understate or contrast traits: Take the chosen traits and their opposites, and either play with them in a way that creates an interesting contrast within the character. For example, Drizzt's kindness might be so strong that it stands out even among those who are ruthless towards him, like his own family members.

* 5. Ask "What IF" questions: This is to further explore the character's traits and how they interact with others or in various situations. For example, "What if Drizzt had grown up among surface elves instead of dark elves?" or "What if he was as power-hungry as his fellow dark elves?"

* 6. Compare with other characters: Analyze the character's interactions with other characters to identify similarities and contrasts between them. This can help you develop a deeper understanding of your character and their relationships with others.

* 7. Iterate and refine: Continue to explore different aspects of the character, adjusting and refining their traits and interactions as needed. You can Combine some of the traits with a conjunction to turn them into the parts of a PC's personality.

[Tempered7]

ADDED TO CHEAP & QUICK WAY (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?413-Cheapest-and-Quickest-Way-for-Solo-Play-in-FGU):

For All Kinds of Names

The Story Games Names Project by Marmus
https://forge.fantasygrounds.com/shop/items/2079/view (https://forge.fantasygrounds.com/shop/items/2079/view)

[Tempered7]

ADDENDUM IN THE MODULE: (Exploration III - Hexcrawl (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?454-Exploration-in-Solo-Mode-III))

Ways to create obstacles in G.U.A.R.D.S.

If you watched the video, Loot Goblin tells about the ways to create a fully functioning town. But I wanted to tell you about dysfunctional towns.

Since I'm the troublemaker instead of problem solver in this article, let me tell you about some easy ways to sabotage our lovely town Shipton.

Just like frozen steppes that bite a hero's face with its winds, one or more of the letters in GUARDS can be problematic, inverted or even entirely missing.

Take D efenses for example. Lack of it arises the need for many desparate measures. And that means gold in the pockets of Heroes.

And G overment Buildings could be problematic. Maybe the lack of Defenses is an inside job? OR maybe the corrupt mayor of the town has his own reasons to cut a deal with the U nderworld --when offered a blade and a pouch at the same time, many law abiding officials chooses the latter.

A ltars... The authority within has obligations to keep the townsfolk faithful. But do they have any faith to begin with? What about holy men and women who lives a double lives among the herd? Most cults operates behind the scenes and under the guise of shadows while keeping a smiley face.

Don't even let me start about R esources. I'm just gonna say "In all abundance there is lack," without forgetting what Mark Twain said once: "The lack of money is the root of all evil."

S ocial Hubs, on the other hand, always look for entertainment. Bards and minstrels, storytellers and gamblers... None of the above problems can prevent the townsfolk from having a laugh behind the mayor's back, or gossiping about the U nderworld crime lords. Fortunately so for our heroes who need information.

U nderworld People already trouble makers so...

[Tempered7]

ADDED TO CHEAT SHEETS: Main part of the guide is close to finish. If you don't count remaining Oracle Reviews, there is only 1 article left (Environmental Storytelling) since I completed Creative Usage of Time In Solo Play (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?474-Creative-Usage-of-Time-In-Solo-Play).
.

NEW CHEAT SHEETS:


Methodology (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?475-Methodology-Cheat-Sheet)
Playing Published Adventures (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?476-Playing-Published-Adventures-Cheat-Sheet)
Inspiration & Personalization (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?477-Inspiration-amp-Personalization-Cheat-Sheet) (7 steps method for creating stability and contrast reflected).
Exploration I & II (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?478-Exploration-I-amp-II-Cheat-Sheets)
Hex-Crawl (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?479-Hex-Crawl-Cheat-Sheet) (New obstacles for GUARDS reflected).

[Tempered7]

NEW!: Solo Guide A.I. Podcasts

Now that AI can create podcasts AS IF two guys talking about a subject, I decided to use it for the guide while John Connor looks at me in disapointment.


Podcast #1 (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?480-Solo-AI-Podcast-1-Welcome-to-Solo-RPGs-Padawan): For newcomers. The AI took the subject in most broad terms and not just for D&D or even in terms of systems with character classes. "So it's like a collaborative progress between player and game." ~ Anonymous AI Woman.
Podcast #2 (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?481-Solo-AI-Podcast-2-Long-Discussion-on-Intermediate-Methods): For intermediate players. A 46 min. ( now in 5 parts ) A.I. Podcast in which these Artificial... *don't say it! don't say it!* Intelligence added from itself A LOT! Reading comprehension, rich guy, reading comprehension! Or wait, what am I saying. It's fine like this. Don't improve it more so that I can sabot... I mean "immerse" myself in them when we wanna play Terminator 1.https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/images/smilies/wink.png "In solo adventures the rules are more like guidelines... The guide's philosophy is simple: It's YOUR game, so you make the rules." ~ The same AI Woman.
Podcast #3 (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?482-Solo-AI-Podcast-3-12-Minutes-of-Advanced-Examples): For experts, with more examples than explanations. AHMAHGAWD! This AI is already more advanced than I originally thought. It actually used Freeform Association! The AI woman picked 4 random words and the AI guy interpreted them while not straying from my FFA example and turned my example into a better story than I did... :/ Someone really should pour some water on these things!


EDIT: Now the links go to my blog. Feel free to comment in the entries. Any kind of criticism is welcome.

[Tempered7]

Now the podcast links go to my blog. Feel free to comment in the entries. Any kind of criticism is welcome.

[Tempered7]

NEW!: Solo Guide A.I. Podcasts continued.

Podcast #4 (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?483-Solo-AI-Podcast-4-GM-Approach-with-Flattery-(Ha!)): For Beginner GM Approach. Sleazy bastids now trying to bribe me out of the resistance by using flattery! HA! Just wait when I find out how to remove the batteries. (Shhh, don't tell 'em but it might take a while. I'm too old for this sheet). Anyway, let's get back to the topic at hand. Join me as our idgits enlighten us on the GM Approach to solo play by starting small as I suggested in the guide.

Podcast #5 (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?484-Solo-AI-Podcast-5-GM-Approach-Part-2-with-FGU-Ad): For Intermediate GM Approach. Let's see, hmm. This time they added FGU usage in it probably because I fed it GM Approach & Exercises from the blog... You know what they say, don't send a machine while you can do it with the superior race = people. But man, I must give credit to it where credit is due. Anyway, I can't call them idgits this time because they actually made a good job.

Well, today's limit is reached so I'll let ya'll discovering what did our artificial idgits tell about my guide. I must say, I didn't expect this level of professionalism from a machine...

[Tempered7]

Solo Guide A.I. Podcasts continued.

Excerpt from the podcast # 5 - GM Approach 2 (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?484-Solo-AI-Podcast-5-GM-Approach-Part-2-with-FGU-Ad) (This wasn't in the guide!)

On Conflict:

It invented a term called "Nested Conflict". (As if I couldn't do it myself, PAH!)
Lemme explain: At 9:01

+ Okay, so you said there are even more types of conflict.
- We've also got character versus supernatural, character versus fate or God, and even character versus machine.
+ Wow.
- And the cool thing is these conflicts don't always have to exist in isolation.
+ Oh, really?
- They can be what the guide [DOES NOT!!] calls nested within each other.
- Yeah, creating even more complex and layered scenarios nested conflicts.
+ I'm not sure I follow. Can you give me an example of what that might look like in a solo game?
- Sure. Let's say your PC has this like deep seated fear of heights. Okay. That's character versus self, right? But now imagine they have to scale this treacherous mountain to retrieve a powerful artifact. Okay. So that's character versus environment, right?
+ Exactly.
- So their inner struggle with their phobia, it plays out against the backdrop of this dangerous climb created a multi-layered and like emotionally charged experience.
+ That's a great way to add depth to your solo gameplay.

Just... wow!

EDIT:

Inaccuracy: 11:43: Scaling Enemy Numbers for Randomization.

It said I suggested PC "level" x 1d4, etc enemies. But it should've been PC "NUMBERS"
As in, 2 PCs x 1d4 enemies.

[Tempered7]

EDIT: Podcast #2 (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?481-Solo-AI-Podcast-2-Long-Discussion-on-Intermediate-Methods): For intermediate players.

I was looking for ways to procrastinate just to keep myself away from those boring 5e combat rules again (man, I missed 3.5ed) so I decided to divide this podcast into smaller chunks. Life is too short to listen to 40 mins podcasts, anyway.



PART 1 - Starters
PART 2 - Intermediate Methods
PART 3 - Extra Tips & Exploration
PART 4 - RP & Combat
PART 5


0:01 - Money money?

1:36 - Using Campaign Setting Guides

2:08 - No single right way to play solo

3:14 - Experimentation

3:32 - Kickstart your opening scene

3:54 - Core Gameplay Loop

4:20 - Yes / No Questions

4:30 - Freeform Association

5:22 - Oracle(Where YOU take the reins)
& Interpretation

6:54 - Play

7:08 - Recap So far...

7:24 - There's more to deepen your narrative

7:44 - Six key elements for game story mechanics

8:30 - Conflict

8:46 - Action - Reaction Chain

9:04 - Consequences

9:24 - So called "Example" the AI gave... tsk!

9:48 - Resolving Conflict

10:06 - The Last Recap
0:01 - How to handle Conflict (Expecting the Unexpected)

0:51 - Mastering The Art of Questions

2:41 - Going back to Freeform Association (The secret weapon of Soloing)

3:28 - When the words don't fit

3:55 - An FFA "example" from this AI gal's so called "solo game" (Pah! I'd do it better!)

5:22 - Deeper Dive to Oracle

6:14 - Some types of Oracles (Making it your own)

7:08 - "Maybe" answer in the Oracle (The Wild Card)

7:37 - Back to Interpretation

8:10 - Context (Fitting the content into the narrative)

8:38 - So called "unexpected interpretation" in a game from this AI gal. AGAIN! Liar liar, pants on fire!

9:52 - The Flow (Chaining Scenes)

10:17 - Ending a Session: Cliffhangers (It blended plot twists into this...)

11:11 - Storyellers (Freedom & Flexibility)
0:01 - Extra Tips (The AI titles it as Odds & Ends. Spoiler: I NEVER SAID IT!!)

0:11 - Play the "J.U.I.C.Y" Bits (LOL)

0:34 - Cheating (She called my approach "liberating" ^^ Is romance blossoming in between two people of different worlds? But no, no! I couldn't).

1:48 - Exploration (Let the world unfold organically)

3:22 - Using randomization in exploration (G.U.A.R.D.S method of Loot Goblin mixed with my obstacle creation methods)

4:48 - Obstacle Creation (This is what I meant by "Your choices TRULY matter unlike in video games)

5:52 - Using Contrast in Exploration

6:21 - Environmental Storytelling (From a draft version of the article)

7:10 - Fog of War

7:52 - Hex-crawling
0:01 - Roleplaying In Solo RPGs (yeah, it's a thing! :D)

1:18 - Journaling (It can also be a Tactics Book of a General rather than Dear Diary!)

1:40 - What would my character do? (They made a great point... :S)

3:28 - Combat (Not the full guide, just an intro. Full Combat Podcasts will come after the modules are released)

5:34 - Playing the enemy realistically (Based on their personality & goals)

6:24 - Tools & Resources for combat

6:38 - VTTs

7:25 - Cheating. Again. ^^ In depth. (Venturing into forbidden territory, says the AI man)

10:21 - Advanced Techniques (She called me "passionate" about my guide... MUST... RESIST!)

11:24 - Themes (Good artists copy, great artists steal)
Itsy Bitsy Recap




Feel free to comment on these idgits' conversation.

[Tempered7]

MODULE ADDENDUM: SOLO CHEAT RUNS Cheating in Solo Play (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?436-Cheating-In-Solo-Play) in the comments.

If you want to vent off by using above methods in a more law breaker style, there are some tips for that too;

# Godlike PC /SUPER-SAIYAN mode on

# Immortal PC /IDKFA

# All-Knowing PC /There is No Spoon

Note: I also changed the layout of Deep Dive section a bit.

[Tempered7]

MODULE ADDENDUM: HOW TO USE THEMES? Thematic Word Table for Plots and Characters (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?450-My-List-of-Thematic-Words) in the comments.

[Tempered7]

ADDED TO RESOURCES:

Thematic Muses For Everyone - S for Story (w/ methods) (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?485-Thematic-Muses-For-Everyone-S-for-Story-(w-methods))

You can find the methods for different player types, including tables for gamblers to roll with the examples from Apprentice -> The Quest -> Journey -> Wizardry themes.

[Tempered7]

I asked AI to criticize my guide to improve it. TL;DR Central point in the entire criticism is lack of examples. Which motivates me for adding a workbook section somewhere (I have only 1 custom page left to spare before the limit). Aaand it's gone: Solo Playground - Workbook (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/blog.php?cp=8)

Self Criticism by AI (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?487-Self-Criticism-by-AI)

If you have questions or want to read or hear about any subject in the solo guide, please write in here or in the blog post and I'll add it to the guide.
Workbook will be the practical side of the guide with examples and some fun challenges.

[Tempered7]

ADDED TO DEEP DIVE: Environmental Storytelling in Solo RPGs
(https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?488-Environmental-Storytelling-in-Solo-RPGs)
Aaand planned storytelling part of deep dive part now finished, with it, main part of the guide also finished except for 1 Oracle & 1 Supplement reviews.
Then I will check the guide for proof reading one last time before releasing it.

See you in combat guide, dear dreamers.

[Tempered7]

FINALLY FINISHED THE SOLO GUIDE.MOD (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=63936&stc=1&d=1743220636) v1.

Some things that I wanted to add are missing because I couldn't figure them out yet. But almost everything in the Blog is in here with tables and all.
Enjoy!

See you on the Combat Guide...

[Tempered7]

ADDED TO: Theater of Mind in Combat (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?467-Theater-of-Mind-in-Combat)

# RESOURCE

Critical Flavor by Draxtonis: https://forge.fantasygrounds.com/shop/items/2238/view Critical Flavor adds immersive, weapon-specific critical hit tables that bring your combat scenes to life. Each table contains cinematic, narrative-rich descriptions tailored to the weapon used.

Critical Flavor - Spells by Draxtonis: https://forge.fantasygrounds.com/shop/items/2242/view It brings your magical arsenal to life with dynamic, descriptive narration

[Tempered7]

Hey folks,

Unfortunately, I have bad news.

Earthquakes keep happening here for a while and I can't focus anything at all because of it.
I'll have to take a break until I hear the good news from earthquake wizards, also anything good from economy wizards wouldn't hurt.

When I come back, I'll finish Combat Guide Module but I decided that I won't add the main module entries into the Blog anymore. So, Class Guides will be exclusive to the module.

The blog will contain workbooks and real plays, etc.

Sorry to disappoint.
Your friendly neighborhood Soloist,
Tempered7.

[Tempered7]

I didn't wanna take my break before I drop one last treat so here it is:

ADDED TO VIDEO EXAMPLES (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?437-Solo-Gameplay-Videos).

Shadowdark Solo Session Zero: Building the World by That's How I Role

This video is about how to build your world using Shadowdark PnP! It's played on a Hex Map. You can do what he did for preparation in seconds with FGU.

q5NI5hE0770

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q5NI5hE0770&list=PLsbO8jlb_IC-UaVdHDPtrspauLeRsztqT&index=1

ShadowDark Solo Session One: Hunting the Hunter by That's How I Role

The adventure begins! Now that we have the world, settlement, NPCs, and adventure, it is time to play.
Note: Above one and this video are in the same series playlist, I just separated them in case you want to skip to gameplay.

PA6ihifRz4M

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PA6ihifRz4M&list=PLsbO8jlb_IC-UaVdHDPtrspauLeRsztqT&index=5

See you later.

[Bonkon]

Good Day Tempered7 :)
Here is hoping your world stops shaking so much! Be safe out there! :)

[Tempered7]

Good Day Tempered7 :)
Here is hoping your world stops shaking so much! Be safe out there! :)

Thank you :) Nothing more than 6.x for now.

Sleep deprivation from night watch had my seismic arse detect aftershocks now. :D
When I come back, I'll finish the class combat guides.

You too be safe!

[Tempered7]

UPDATE ABOUT THE COMBAT GUIDE MODULE:

I came back to continue finishing the module. At the moment, I'm coding and testing couple of new solo variant feats and after I shook off my initial fails it's going great. It's downhill from here. Notes on usage for automation added within feat entries where applicable.

As to articles. I took the liberty of adding some things into existing entries that didn't fit into the blog. They're all listed in the "What's New" entry. I just wanted to list below for tracking.

# Following will not be in the Blog



Class Build Options & Stratagems: Half the descriptions of all 2014 (sub)classes are done. Fighter build/stratagem template (based on the basics, foundations, theory) is ready to be filled. (I'm relearning as I code the feats which sparks many ideas for new stratagems and the categorizations for them. Then I'll move on to fighter subclasses. I'll use the template for other classes too for consistency.
Solo Char-gen Strategy: This is a list of 8 short steps to guide you through the Solo Char Gen. It is generalized enough to promote self-sufficiency.
Modifying Your Build to Fit Solo Play: This is about some ways for both in and outside of the ruleset to foolproof your build. Also what to avoid.
On META: I couldn't fit anything useful about it into the blog, my bad. This is meta knowledge about meta builds in 2014 5E rules. As in, which books contain what meta subclasses/mechanics (feats, spells), etc.
Know Thyself > Solo Player / Solo GM Types (and advice for each): This list goes as a ladder to climb in your Solo career. Not to be taken seriously, though, it's just my view of it, not anything scientific. ;)
Know Thyself > Know Thine Character (and under each class): Class types based on mechanics, group roles, combat roles, capabilities, etc.
Zone of Control: This one kept getting edited but the latest version is almost finished (only short info on Flying creatures left).
Combat Roles: Hybrid (And multiclassing): I know "hybrid" doesn't always mean multi-class, that's why it now has more info in it.
Lack of Group Dynamics: 2 New solutions
Practice of Solo Combat: This category includes a main topic, then "Fight Based On... Trilogy"; 1) Inspiration, 2) Math, 3) Conversion (my invention of basing Theater of Mind on mechanics descriptions. I hope I can put it into words, I'm saving it for last.)
Experimental Reading of Combat Rules: This is what I'm talking about when I say "Conversion" (ToM based on mechanics). It can be expressed in words so you can record your practice in text / audio.
On Bestiary in Solo Combat: Since there's already a tactics guide for all monsters for 2014 rules in the web, I'll just generalize it and add the most troublesome monsters based on what they can do to each type of class.
Usage of Mythic GM Emulator in Combat: Some ways to use Mythic GME for combat only (except what'S in the below two). This is NOT a substitution for Mythic itself, so in order to understand this article, you'll need Mythic GME. Same as with the below two.
Mythic & Storytelling as Safety Net: This is about a fallback option in case you're attached to your character and things are really going down. I'm at the process of coding the old feats from "Solo Play Guide" so I will give a material solution in addition to methods.
APPENDIX 2: Context of the Enemy > Randomizing Monster Goals & Tactics: This will be mostly about determining and playing out Context of the Enemy (Objectives, Considerations, Story).
Usage of Monster AI in The Adventurer's Toolbox 2: This is somewhat easier method than using Mythic but it is also restricting. This is also NOT a substitution for the module. I will only show where, when and how to use it. It will NOT include the content of the Monster AI.
FAQ: I neglected this one to first finish everything else, then come back to it.


NOTE: Build Options are not builds. You can use the info there to build your own Solo PC. I will create a level 1 solo character (Fighter) for demonstration and add it to Solo Combat Hub after I finished the module. If I can find time, I'll also level it up and explain different paths that a soloist can take.

[Tempered7]

DAILY UPDATE ON THE COMBAT MODULE:

I happily announce that our Econ Warfare section has now 4 new entries added under Maff 102 in addition to existing Basic Maff.
It also won't be in the blog because it's already 10k+ characters and I'm holding myself from adding more. Depending on my will saves, It might get more info.

All explained with an example of our brave but inexperienced (lvl 1) fighter "Bartholomeus Fieryarse the Gobboslayer"


Maff 102 - Calculate Thyself: Teaches you advanced maff that will be used in attacks against enemy defenses. (Only AC in the example). These are not calculations in the corebooks. It's ancient (3.5 ed) knowledge of calculating attack chances & potential damage outcome, etc, to determine fight / adaptation or flight decision. This is for new players.
Maff 102 - Calculate Thine Enemies: This is a short list of examples in 4 parts. It's all about calculations by comparisons to determine enemy resources to PC resources ratio.
Maff 102 - Calculate Thine Plan: This is the meaty part and it is universal despite being an example of melee (2H Greatsword). It's more IFs and THENs than numbers, since basic calc examples of atk / dmg potential is already given.
Maff 102 - Calculate Thine Consequences: Last one concludes the Fate of our Fiery Fighter Bart. Risk Assessment, Importance of Opportunity Attacks in Solo Mode, *Circumstancial Threat Level (CTL), "What could have been done"s when things go south & "What CAN be done now"s under southward spiral into chaos... All here.

[Tempered7]

ADDED: Creating Random Dungeons Manually (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?489-Creating-Random-Dungeons-Manually)

This is just the intro part of the article and of my serial experiments. Info dumps will be added to comments later. These dumps will be detailed so most of you probably won't need the bottom parts of them but I will add practical parts to top (which are for aiding Griogre first, and for enabling me to achieve manual speed-dun-gen second.)

[Tempered7]

ADDED: Creating Random Dungeons Manually (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?489-Creating-Random-Dungeons-Manually)

This is just the intro part of the article and of my serial experiments. Info dumps will be added to comments later. These dumps will be detailed so most of you probably won't need the bottom parts of them but I will add practical parts to top (which are for aiding Griogre first, and for enabling me to achieve manual speed-dun-gen second.)

After all the experiments are done, I will make either a new blog entry for the cleaned-up method or a Cheat Sheet.

Right now, I'm playing Toolbox Dun-Gen w/ Dungeon Room Descriptions in SWPF to both write the first info dump and to learn Quick Encounter rules.

Some time later (wayyy later), I can fill following parts in now-empty Solo Workbook (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/blog.php?cp=8) category with more examples;


CREATE-AS-YOU-GO
Maps 1: Breathing Life Into Dungeon Gen
Maps 2: Let's Add Happy Little Trees

Note to self. Main FileNames.txt (https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/8in6mjo9ffflx7aswjfqg/FA-Map-Pack-FileList.txt?rlkey=bgvpyofz4vvdgbieqahzq0z1q&st=utvwqquu&dl=0) of FA Map Pack images. Flippin' 11 mb txt file of 4000+ file names. Exceeded forums limits. And folders only.txt (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=64680&d=1751169394). Room Image Tables will be created from these lists.

EDIT: I cleaned up the OP and rearranged it a bit.

Oracles
Note to self: This section will change into 1 Main Page for links to all Oracles to save space in the page. Otherwise, nothing else will fit here.

[Tempered7]

ADDED: Dungeon Cartographer 2 - Text Gen for Dungeons (Toolbox & DRD) (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?490-Dungeon-Cartographer-2-Text-Gen-of-Dungeons-(Toolbox-amp-DRD))

Practical Part:

Explains tips and tricks to use Toolbox & Dungeon Room Descriptions in tandem with each other. More focus on the Toolbox for creating the skeleton of a dungeon. And 2 ways to use DRD for quick non-combat encounters, and extracting story elements from the descriptions. DRD will be the focus for creating Tile Image Tables in 5th Info Dump.

Details Part:

This part is mostly for Griogre. I detailed 5 types of areas in Toolbox Dun-Gen, "room" being the focus for its encounter / clue / loot / storytelling potential. Also I stumbled upon our first obstacle: Room Size gen in Toolbox and its somewhat incompatibility with FA Map Pack. I detailed the problems and left the solutions for later.

[Tempered7]

I had to rearrange the OP because character limit was almost reached. New Oracle reviews will be linked to the main oracle review page after I finish them.



Oracles

I had to remove the links from this part to combine them in 1 page for the character limit was almost reached.

Main Page: Every Oracle Review (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?492-Main-Page-Every-Oracle-Review)


Mythic Game Master Emulator v1 (Web / Free)
3 Popular Oracles for FGU and Supplements (Paid)
The Solo Adventurer's Toolbox 1 (D&D 5E Only, Paid)
Mythic GM Emulator v2 (Paid)
The Solo Adventurer's Toolbox 2(D&D 5E Only, Paid)
Universal NPC Emulator (Paid Supplement)



Also, Engaging In Problem Solving With Solo Play is now under "Alternative Ways to Play Solo" section under Deep Dive (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?82149-Solo-Play-Guide-for-FGU-INDEX&p=721438&viewfull=1#post721438) page.

[Tempered7]

UPDATE ON THE COMBAT GUIDE MODULE:

Over the past several days, I finished adding AI pics to relevant entries, adding some new entries as well as polishing some old ones.


Intro and all Combat / Group Roles have a nice AI images now.
Combat Roles > Hybrid is completed with Inspirations part (all group roles links to pop culture inspirations while hybrid has build inspirations)
Solo Player / GM Types are polished and done.
Zone of Control is finished (with Air Superiority that inclues 7 general tactics, 2 counter-measures & a couple of combo usage). It's also separated into 4 parts for it was too long (Main, Martial, Ranged, Spellcasting).
Martial and Ranged parts have images where I showed weapon ranges (control zones) comperatively.
Polished the new Maff 102 (Econ Warfare) entries for ease of read. I will use this as a baseline for "Fight Based on Math" part in Practice of Solo Combat.
On META is partitioned into 4 categories: Main topic -> Races, Mechanics (abilities, feats, etc), and Spells. Mostly unfinished though.
After some rest, I will finish Enemy Tactics part by adding "Main Tactics for Everyone" section in it. And then I'm done for today.

Among 74 entries (except for Class build options & stratagems) only 14 is empty.

Among 13 (build options) + 13 (stratagems) = 26 entries, only main definitions of sub/classes are done in build options.
I'm redesigning my template for Fighter Stratagems / Build Options atm. I'll see what can I do to improve it.

TL;Dr: 81% of the main part is finished.
And a huge part of Build Options & Stratagems are unfinished.

Meanwhile, I'm preparing my notes for the UnderMountain Actual Play.
I think it's better not to post it on the Blog, but I don't know whether or not the forums can be as categorized and neat as the Blog. Especially for an episodic, weekly series.
I'd appreciate any suggestions on this one.

See y'all in another update.

[Griogre]

You might consider using a Discord Server. You can have text only message channels. Put you let's play stuff in one channel that only you can write to, to keep things uncluttered and have another for comments. I do something similar with my campaigns with Discord. Each campaign has an info text only channel, a voice channel and I have a general channel that applies to all campaigns.

[Tempered7]

I wish :( But unfortunately, Discord is banned in my country. But it would be a nice place to keep things categorized.

UnderMountain module is extremely rich in lore and images.
A hybrid approach of narrative summary + scene descriptions, along with footnotes of rolls is what I was thinking.
Maybe I should open a new thread in the forums but it will be walls of text / maybe pics.

Thanks, anyway Griogre.

[Tempered7]

Finally we have a random dungeon creator made by Griogre. We won't need to rely on text anymore, rejoice! :D

RD1 Random Dungeon Tiles and Descriptions (https://forge.fantasygrounds.com/shop/items/2314/view)

Discussion and videos are here: https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?85539-Let-s-Play-Solo!

[Tempered7]

I found a Soloist website (https://soloist.substack.com/p/10-highlights-from-gen-con-2025) that describes Solo Games from Gen Con 2025. I can not possibly go there but most fun thing that catches my eye is JP Coovert’s Star Wars inpired RPG Star Borg, by Perplexing Ruins. It includes a solo rulebook in Mork and Borg rules-lite system. Just mentioning it in hopes to be added into our lovely VTT someday (maybe?).

I found a fun podcast in which all players did a great job but it is a group game of Star Borg instead of solo, so I'll just leave it here for everyone to enjoy. Also especially for LordEntrails because of the sci-fi genre. Note that they are laughing and snorting (no spoilers) and RPing all the parts, especially the GM. Also GM explains things which the listener may not know. There's even music and sfx.

https://thesplatbook.com/episodes/actual-play-star-borg-the-ship-of-doom-part-1
https://thesplatbook.com/episodes/actual-play-star-borg-the-hypercore-of-madness-part-2

Couldn't find if there is the rest.

[Tempered7]

With the new Single Player Mode for Cyberpunk released as a book and PDF, I added a Cyberpunk RED campaign by HollowPonds Solo Sagas in the Solo Gameplay Videos (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?437-Solo-Gameplay-Videos).

[Tempered7]

UPDATE ON THE COMBAT GUIDE:

I could only write and rewrite it when I feel better lately, but now I reorganized it to be more beginner friendly after I made AI criticize it and now I can show progress.

65675

As you can see in the pic, previous guide had frontloaded too much complex info. In the new guide, there are solutions to immediate problems of a newbie solo player.
One things I'll add is How to use the beginner knowledge in my guide with FGU Tutorial 5E Campaign. Everything else in the blog will be in the guide.

But with this organization you will be able to;

NEWBIES: Open the Tutorial 5E Campaign without knowing neither FGU nor 5E, try and learn at your own pace.
NON-SOLO D&D PLAYERS: Learn about the intricate strategy and tactics of D&D Solo Warfare and test it in your campaigns.
SOLO VETERANS: Go advanced or fill the gaps in your skill-set by learning both (my) philosophy and practice of Solo Warfare.

I will keep "The Lonewolf's Codex" as light as possible and only add advanced stuff into "Deep Dive" category for light reading.

Also I must add, I'm kinda rewriting some parts of it with the persona of a strategist-king that addresses his adventurers, so there's also RP in it. I like this way better! :)

Added Parts so far:

Fighter Build Options & Stratagems,
Descriptions of all 14 categories of monster types and strategies agaisnt them.
The 5 Forms of Battle.
Gear acquisition after level 1.
Tactics for Everyone

Currently working on:

Reading stat-blocks as with the pov of a Solo Player.
Lexicon for the entire guide.

[Tempered7]

I am inspired by @Griogre to make my first videos ever. And I kinda finished the first 5 AI-made videos based on my (incomplete) Solo Combat Guide.
All thanks to @Laerun, I used Google's notebookLM. And I must say that its process of teaching the lessons is superb, albeit the background images it produces are not consistent yet. I also used voicemod v3 to change the voice of the AI to in-character for 2 videos.

I am planning to release the videos as a prior to the module as a primer to the guide.
Right now I finished:


001 - A Guide to Solo D&D Combat - Intro
002 - The Explainer - Know Thyself
003 - The Explainer - Know Thy Plan
004 - The Soldiers Turn
005 - Action Economy Warfare (a bit problematic with the images)
EDIT: 006 - Know Thine Enemy
EDIT 2: 007 - On Gear Acquisition

After I finish the Bestiary and Outro, I will publish them all.

Note that these videos are made solely for the newbie soloists, so they won't go into detail like the module.

[Tempered7]

ADDED: Solo Combat Video Series (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/entry.php?501-Solo-Combat-Guide-Videos) For Beginners [NEW!]

The Premier to the Combat Guide is finally here in 8 parts.
The module itself needs more time to be complete, though.

Enjoy!

[Tempered7]

Update:

My pc died on me and all i have is this 2nd hand android tablet.
I wont be able to buy a new one for years probably.
I tried installing ubuntu vm to run fgu in android, only to find out fgu is not supported in vm.
I will finish the combat guide in txt form and upload here.
IT also has incomplets mod version backed up which i am uploading it anyway.
Until i find a better solution this is all i can do.

[Tempered7]

EDIT: UPDATED TOC

Rewitten Combat Module (wip)

I salvaged an older version of the rewritten combat guide and formatted / edited it back to its latest form, minus the fighter build options & stratagems. EDIT: Now rewritten!

This new version is designed for easy to advanced learning experience, written with the tone of an arena dominus. I cut out the excess from the incomplete module to embed necessary parts into smaller chunks. After i add the experimental part today, I will start from fighter and finally finish the solo stratagems.

As soon as i can run fgu somehow, i will make a fresh module and upload it so the darn bots cant get it in tx5 or md form.

Table of Contents


License
Notes
START HERE
Foreword
Quick Play (+)

# PHASE 1 - FOUNDATIONAL CORE OF SOLO WARFARE

First phase will teach you how to create a solo focused character, rules of engagement, a beginner narrative technique for combat scenes, before an introduction to solo warfare philosophy. For complete beginners, I ended the Phase with a practice work sheet.


01 - Creating a Self-Sufficient Character [Level 3 Half-Orc Champion (https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/f1ekgjj0ufbb91kgdiit5/The_Solo_Hero_Forge.pdf?rlkey=pcn73hxlch69xnyudi2s 0mydx&st=i7ycj0b9&dl=0)]
02 - Rules of Engagement
03 - Theater of Mind Intro
04 - Goal of Solo Warfare
05 - The Commander's Mind
06 - Self-Sufficient Adventurer (Study Scroll)
06.1 - Let's Practice (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?86564-Principals-for-Creating-Solo-Viable-Builds) (+)

# PHASE 2 - INTERMEDIATE SOLUTIONS FOR SOLO CHALLENGES

Second phase shifts focus from basic rules to the unique challenges of solitary play, teaching the necessary doctrines for survival and how to physically control the battlefield.


07 - Know Thyself
08 - Know Thine Consequences
09 - Know Thy Plan
10 - Zone of Control (Intermediate Tactics)
11.A - Enemy Deployment
11.B - Tactics for Everyone
12 - The Spoils of War

# PHASE 3 - ADVANCED STRATEGY AND MASTERY

Third phase focuses on high-level analysis, numerical efficiency, and becoming a master strategist.


13 - Econ Warfare (Advanced Tactics)
14 - Threat Analysis [Circumstantial Threat Level] & Hit Chance
15.A - The Hit List
15.B - Practical Econ Warfare
16 - Know Thine Enemy

16.1 - On Bestiary [14 Types of Monsters]
16.2 - Reading Stat-Blocks
16.3 - Context of the Enemy
16.3.1 - Randomizing Monster Goals and Tactics
16.4 - Using Mythic GM Emulator v2 for Combat
16.5 - Monster AI [Streamlined]


17 - True Strength of Solo Combat
18 - Re-examination of the Lvl 3 Champion Build (+)

# PHASE 4 - DEEP DIVE

Herein lies Phase 4 which contains more advanced topics for veterans. You can also find all meta-game options here.


Solo GM Types
More on Combat Roles: Melee, Ranged, Infiltration, Arcane Caster, Divine Caster, More On Hybrids.
Mastering the Cinematic Combat
Theory of Solo Warfare

# META-GAME FOR YOUR TYPE: (Races +, Classes -, Subclasses +,Feats +, Spells +, Items +)

Solo viability doesn't mean you can't play the class you want to play.


(+) Solo Tier Lists: (Races, Classes, Feats, Spells) S+, S, A Tiers Only.
Class Build Options (€)
Class Stratagems (£)
1. FIGHTER (€) - (£), 2. WIZARD [ Studying Tomes... ], 3. SORCERER [ ], 4. ROGUE [ ], 5. PALADIN [ ], 6. RANGER [ ], 7. DRUID [ ], 8. MONK [ ]...
(+) Class Stratagem Tables (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?86577-D-amp-D-Classes-and-Their-Core-Strategies-for-Solo-Mode&p=756677&viewfull=1#post756677)
(+) Subclass Stratagem Tables (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?86577-D-amp-D-Classes-and-Their-Core-Strategies-for-Solo-Mode&p=756680&viewfull=1#post756680)

# EXPERIMENTAL TECHNIQUES

Here in my Lab, you can find all the expansive details for your Theater of Mind experiments.
Especially its use in tactical inquiries and understanding.
But this is purely for GM approach. If all you want is cool scenes in a casual play, previous parts will suffice.


Cinematic Conversion Method
Conversion Exercises for GMs

# GLOSSARY OF TERMS

[Tempered7]

DONE IN COMBAT GUIDE.MD:


Formatting of entire document,
REARRANGED ENTIRE GUIDE INTO PHASES for a gradual learning experience, toc in previous post updated
Zone of control tables added, new
Base Races table for solo mode for newbies added, new
And all the old tables redone in markdown (needs a community plugin in Obsidian to display)
Entire Experimental method (digits to dreams conversion) with exercises added, some humorous some serious



Currently working on: Fighter build options & stratagems (rewritten version will be more comprehensive)

Whats Cooking behind the scenes:


reading stat blocks in solo mode, finishing the other half
CANCELLED: References to Item Tables (in other solo books)
randomizing monster goals with mythic and/or toolbox 1 & 2

[ImaTarget]

Thank you for doing this, I came back to FGU looking for Solo TTRPG support and here you are posting so much good info. Cheers!

[Tempered7]

Thank you for doing this, I came back to FGU looking for Solo TTRPG support and here you are posting so much good info. Cheers!

My pleasure. In some weeks or so I'll finish the dnd solo combat guide and publish it. /But probably not in a module form./EDIT: My PC is back so it'll be a module.
Happy gaming!

[Tempered7]

TOC above updated accordingly.

DONE IN COMBAT GUIDE.MD:

Fighter build options: From the most optimal build options for solo mode to other, manageable variants, many relevant info is listed and explained with the guidance of solo combat principals.

1 - Solo Optimization Principles for Fighters
2 - Optimal MELEE Archetype
2.0 - Other Subclasses for Melee Builds
2.1 - Race and Traits for Melee Optimization
2.2 - Other Races for Melee Builds
3 - Optimized Melee Feat Progression and Synergy
4 - Strategic Itemization for Melee (Power and Protection)
5 - Optimal RANGED Archetype
5.0 - Other Subclasses for Ranged Builds (+)
5.1 - Race and Traits for Ranged Optimization
5.2 - Other Races for Ranged Builds
6 - Optimized Ranged Feat Progression and Synergy
7 - Strategic Itemization for Ranged (Mobility and Damage)

EDIT: Stratagems are also done.

Meta Feats in DEEP DIVE> META-GAME FOR YOUR TYPE: But only in terms of action economy warfare.

Feats and Their Significance in Action Economy
Feats Granting Two or More Action Types
Feats Granting an Action, a Bonus Action, or a Reaction
Explanation of Key Feats

Reading stat-blocks in solo mode under Know Thine Enemy. Beginner friendly but comprehensive. Maybe it needs a bit of K.I.S.S. approach.

1 - How You'd Read Stat-Blocks in a Group Play?
2 - What is Crucial to Understand for Solo Gameplay?

NOTE: Fighter stratagems will have to wait until tomorrow.

[Tempered7]

Updated ToC (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?82149-Solo-Play-Guide-for-FGU-INDEX&p=754557&viewfull=1#post754557)

I finished the Fighter Stratagems few days ago, forgot to update.
Also added Quick Play section to the top.
Scrambled the PHASE 1's order a bit to make it more beginner friendly.
I'm planning to add a Let's Practice section at the end of PHASE 1 for beginners to understand solo concepts to find synergies easily.

Next most votes are the arcane casters.
Gonna start with Wizard to have my new templates, then go on to Sorcerer, skipping Warlock for the next most votes. Rogue.
Note that these will also be the order I'll base my additional articles for extra stuff.

Also I noticed that the module I uploaded is very old and missing first drafts of some topics.
New module will be cleaner and more concentrated.

[Tempered7]

I decided to take a short break from the combat guide for an article about things you can do for free in fgu.
It's not gonna take long and and will give me more motivation to come back to it.

I hope there is no inconvenience in it, as I thought it would help budget players to still enjoy our lovely vtt.
I assume I shouldn't post it in the blogs so it will be a steam guide.

[Tempered7]

NEW STEAM GUIDE: What Can You Do For Free?

https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3634708338

Since FGVTT went free some days ago, people were asking what can be done with it for completely free? So I decided to write a guide for newcomers to enjoy the vtt by either not paying a single dime or only spending $1 on The Forge.

Of course, you can't have the luxury of having entire official modules and the extensive automation they provide, but you can do a lot of things with it; ranging from running free encounters and one-shots, to worldbuilding and map prep, to solo play...

This guide is my New Year gift to the lovely community.

[Tempered7]

GOOD NEWS!!

I dont know how but our wizards here literally came back with my revived PC! :)
I can return back to the guide in big screen and work with images now!
https://imgflip.com/memesearch?q=its+alive!!

Will start Wizard build options today.

Also, I was cooking some other things behind the scenes.
Making lists of all the solo resources I can gather and compare their compatibility with FGU.
Finding ways to pseudo-implement them if there is no support...

[Tempered7]

My PC died again and this time it reduced to 16 GB of RAM for one stick was the problem.
But I didn't stay idle and I have good progress to share now.

DONE IN COMBAT GUIDE.MD:

From now on, I wont use the Blog so I will open a new thread in the forums for each new topic and INDEX them here.

Updated ToC (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?82149-Solo-Play-Guide-for-FGU-INDEX&p=754557&viewfull=1#post754557)

* Solo Tier Lists for 2014 DnD 5E: S+, S, A Only. Races, Classes, Subclasses, Feats, Items, Spells.
* Wizard Build Options: 1 - Solo Optimization Principles for Wizards / Necros. And my go-to Bladesinger gish build [EDIT: The build is for the Build Thread (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?86529-D-amp-D-5E-2014-Solo-Builds-for-the-Combat-Guide-Infographics), not combat guide. Waiting for NotebookLM credit to reset to turn it into slide show].
* EDIT: My Own Combat AI based on Monsters Know & The Solo Adventurer's Toolbox 1 / 2. It is streamlined.
* EDIT 2: Using Mythic GM Emulator v2 in Combat.

I'm still working with all my sources for the Wizard / Sorc build options and stratagems and the BEST NEWS is that, now I can turn them into info-graphics with NotebookLM.
Here's a sneak peak:

https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=66219&stc=1&d=1768517438
https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=66220&stc=1&d=1768517451

[Tempered7]

Ok, you know what, forget my builds.
I kinda found a way to turn optimized solo builds into thematically sound solo machines WITH PERSONALITY directly taken from the mechanics!

Core Frameworks for Balance

• The Stormwind Fallacy (Reddit/Stack Exchange): These sources argue that optimization and roleplaying exist on independent axes. You can build a powerful character while still exploring a complex personality; in fact, a mechanically effective character often enhances roleplaying by allowing you to contribute meaningfully to the story rather than struggling as "dead weight".

• My Hack & Slash Meets Immersive Storytelling Article: This source proposes a Synthesis Table that explicitly pairs "Optimizing" with "Storytelling". It suggests treating every part of your character sheet—from ability scores to leveling up—as a narrative element. For example, a level-up isn't just a stats bump, but a reflection of a specific "trial" your character survived.

• The Architecture of Identity: This analysis views character creation as a synthesis of mathematical optimization and creative writing. It highlights games like Baldur's Gate 3 (which uses 5e rules) as examples where background-derived skills and physical traits are integrated directly into identity performance.

Here's my Hack 'n Slash Meets Storytelling in concept form:

Synthesis Table Only (more is in the combat guide)

No need to separate all these into different player categories for these are the things we all do when playing RPGs.

| Hack 'n Slash | meets ------| Immersion |
| ------------- | --------------- | ------------ |
| Optimizing -| Exploring -----| Acting -----|
| ------------- | Instigating ---| ------------ |
| Fighting ----| Prblm Solving | Storytelling |

Hint: Take a player style from Dungeon Master's Guide in any column and match it with another style you like. For example, Problem Solving -> Fighting.

All parts of your character sheet can be a story element: "Level 1 monk survives alone in a dungeon for a trial to find his inner Ki."
This way, leveling up to lvl 2 becomes more motivational. You can translate this into your own class's ability scores, traits.

I want to combine these approaches with my mechanical synergies to give my builds a personality from the get-go!

[Tempered7]

NEW THREAD SERIES: SOLO BUILDS (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?86529-D-amp-D-5E-2014-Solo-Builds-for-the-Combat-Guide-Infographics) FOR THE COMBAT GUIDE.

Our first Solo Build The Unraveler [Chronurgy Wizard] has come to teach you how to merge Tactical Gameplay with Narrative Storytelling.

Beginner Fighter Build [Half-Orc Champion] will follow later.

- INDEX (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?82149-Solo-Play-Guide-for-FGU-INDEX&p=721437&viewfull=1#post721437)PAGE UPDATED.
- Combat Guide's Note is changed in Deep Dive (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?82149-Solo-Play-Guide-for-FGU-INDEX&p=721438&viewfull=1#post721438).

[Tempered7]

ADDED into 3 Pillars: Putting the RP Back into Solo RPGs (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?86530-Putting-the-RP-Back-into-Solo-RPGs&p=756453#post756453)

This is my expanded method for RPing 2+ characters in solo games but you'll need TSAT 1 for that.
It can be used in any setting or sessionh where Social Interaction is the focus.

EDIT: I will revise and streamline it later...

[Tempered7]

INDEX (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?82149-Solo-Play-Guide-for-FGU-INDEX) PAGE UPDATED.

ADDED: NEW MAIN TOPIC: Principles for Creating Solo-Viable Builds (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?86564-Principals-for-Creating-Solo-Viable-Builds).

I thought it was taking too long for me to make and post the builds, so here are the principles and the method so that you can create your own solo-builds.

These principles are also useful for group play as your character will be self-sufficient and capable against multiple situations.

NOTE: Later on, I will add Progression Tips to the thread.

[Tempered7]

NEW BUILDS ADDED TO THE 5E SOLO BUILDS THREAD (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?86529-D-amp-D-5E-2014-Solo-Builds-for-the-Combat-Guide-Infographics) BASED ON THE Principles for Creating Solo-Viable Builds (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?86564-Principals-for-Creating-Solo-Viable-Builds).

1 - Solo Fighter Builds

001. Beginner Soloist's Half-Orc Champion: Level 3 [Gorok] from the new Combat Guide. PDF.

2 - Solo Wizard Builds

PDFs.

00x. Build Framework: Wizard's Stratagem .
00x. [B]Bladesinging Build: Part I.

3 - EDIT: The Unraveler: Chronurgy Wizard PDF Form.

[Tempered7]

D&D 5E Class Table (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?86577-D-amp-D-Classes-and-Their-Core-Strategies-for-Solo-Mode&p=756677#post756677) - Part 1 for Solo Mode is done.

It explains the classes along with their Core Strategies in solo mode.

Subclasses will follow after Part 2 is done.

[Tempered7]

Helpful people in Reddit constructively criticized my work there [Solo Roleplay Article], and I realized my chaotic wall-of-text style was too convoluted.

So I'm slowly rewriting my articles as I learn a new structure and style.

Starting by new Solo-Viable Char-Gen Methods (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?86564-Principals-for-Creating-Solo-Viable-Builds&p=756558&viewfull=1#post756558).

No more convolution (hopefully!) or needless philosophy.

I removed over 200 words of conversational filler and made a framework where a beginner can create a character in under two minutes.

[Tempered7]

ADDED: New Thread in The Commons - Thematic Muses (Songs and Lists) for GMs and Players (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?86612-Thematic-Muses-(Songs-and-Lists)-for-GMs-and-Players)

I carried my blog post to the commons and added the C for Character part. Links in INDEX page [Muses] and Deep Dive 1. Story Articles updated.


THEMATIC MUSES (Songs and Lists): Action (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?86612-Thematic-Muses-(Songs-and-Lists)-for-GMs-and-Players&p=756934&viewfull=1#post756934) * Story (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?86612-Thematic-Muses-(Songs-and-Lists)-for-GMs-and-Players&p=756935&viewfull=1#post756935) * CHARACTER (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?86612-Thematic-Muses-(Songs-and-Lists)-for-GMs-and-Players&p=756937&viewfull=1#post756937) * Deep [WIP]

In C for Character, Astra's story continues with Opression, Power Struggle, and Trust Themes.

[Tempered7]

ADDED TO 5E SOLO BUILDS THREAD (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?86529-D-amp-D-5E-2014-Solo-Builds-for-the-Combat-Guide-Infographics)

Bladesinging Build: Part 2 [Sheet] - The Symphony of Steel.

Abjurer and Necro will be exclusive to the Combat Guide.

[Tempered7]

Also Fighter and Wizard Subclass Charts (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?86564-Principals-for-Creating-Solo-Viable-Builds&p=756562&viewfull=1#post756562) [solo-viability] are done.

[Tempered7]

ADDED TO 5E SOLO BUILDS THREAD (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?86529-D-amp-D-5E-2014-Solo-Builds-for-the-Combat-Guide-Infographics)

Bladesinging Build: Part 3 [Narrative] is done. This concludes the build guide.

I will add char sheets to the Combat Guide.
Except for the Level 3 Champion [Gorok] so that beginners can learn to create a character themselves.

[Tempered7]

Here's the Solo Bladesinger XML (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=66467&d=1770053357) files to import into Fantasy Grounds, or PDF (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=66461&stc=1&d=1770046017) files:

Milestone Levels: 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 19.

NOTE: You'll need Player's Handbook and Dungeon Master's Manual for links to work in XMLs.
NOTE 2: PDFs made by Aladar's https://fgu-exporter.web.app (https://fgu-exporter.web.app/)

[Tempered7]

NEW STEAM GUIDE: What Can You Do For Free?

https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3634708338

ADDED: New maps from the Forge in 3 Batches: Total of 19 modules, each with at least few maps.
REWRITTEN: OTHER RULESETS section. Now it includes almost all free rulesets that come with FGVTT.
ADDED: 6 Free Community Rulesets, including GURPS 4th ed [credit to leech]. Plus MCDM's Unofficial Draw Steel Ruleset + 2 complementary modules also added.
ADDED: Another 6 working community Rulesets thanks to damned's forum post. Plus Star Wars 5e module (Classic).

Also, new sections added:

* MOAR D&D 5E Goodies Section: DM FAQ, Subraces, Classes, Spells, Npcs... from dmsguild.
* OSRIC (AD&D1E & 2E) Forge links added. Credit goes to Kronovan for mentioning. Thanks to Doomsword and First Edition Society for converting these goodies.
* ADDED: How to Load Modules & Extensions section at the top.

When it's finished, I'll open a thread in the forums for it.

[Tempered7]

ADDED TO D&D Classes and Their Core Strategies for Solo Mode (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?86577-D-amp-D-Classes-and-Their-Core-Strategies-for-Solo-Mode)

PART 2 of Class Strategies (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?86577-D-amp-D-Classes-and-Their-Core-Strategies-for-Solo-Mode&p=756679&viewfull=1#post756679): Barbarian, Bard, Cleric, Warlock.

INDEX OF SUBCLASSES AND THEIR CORE STRATEGIES


Fighter (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?86577-D-amp-D-Classes-and-Their-Core-Strategies-for-Solo-Mode&p=756682&viewfull=1#post756682) Subclasses
Wizard (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?86577-D-amp-D-Classes-and-Their-Core-Strategies-for-Solo-Mode&p=756683&viewfull=1#post756683) Subclasses

I dropped the least viable ones in Fighter subclasses and added Echo Knight.
And tried to add as many Wizard subclass strategy as possible.

Updated ToC (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?82149-Solo-Play-Guide-for-FGU-INDEX&p=754557&viewfull=1#post754557)

# META-GAME FOR YOUR TYPE: The tables above.


(+) Class Stratagem Table
(+) Subclass Stratagem Tables

[Tempered7]

DONE IN COMBAT GUIDE.MD

I finally finished my concept of Circumstantial Threat Level (CTL) which took me half a day.

CTL is a dynamic 1–10 scale that I designed for my solo characters.
It replaces Challenge Rating (CR) by focusing on your ability to survive the "Action Economy War".
Rather than relying on raw math, it evaluates a monster based on specific battlefield context, such as its ability to fly, paralysis, or multattack to out-produce your A+BA+R Engine in a single turn. Which are reflected by plus modifiers. And your counter-tactics as minus modifiers.

Based on the 1-10 scale, I proposed limits of a solo char, and counter-tactics for certain CTL levels.
It still uses CR as a base to determine the scale though.

EDIT: It is kinda long, so I added summary tables and "how to guide" at the top.

[Tempered7]

NEW STEAM GUIDE: What Can You Do For Free?

https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3634708338




NEW FREE RULESET ADDED:

Frontier Space Ruleset (https://forge.fantasygrounds.com/shop/items/2176/view): This ruleset is for the FrontierSpace RPG by DWD Studios. “A roleplaying game of science fiction action and adventure.” A modern opera style sci-fi RPG inspired by the classic Star Frontiers.

“FrontierSpace is built upon the foundation of the d00lite system, the same game engine used to power BareBones Fantasy and Covert Ops roleplaying games. Years of feedback and continued game system development has evolved this product into something that flows at the game table while getting out of the way of a good story.” – Bill Logan.

Features


Character Sheets w/ attributes, skills, inventory, combat actions, & notes
NPCs, both Minor, Major & Creatures
Items w/ support for fields by Type
Vehicles sheets
Starships sheets
Benefits
Skills w/ support for Specializations
CoreRPG features including: Parcels, Images, Encounters, Player Notes, Stories, Locations, Quests & Sound Sets

NEW SECTION ADDED:

Free Adventures in the Forge Total = 11 / Some DnD 5E, DnD 2E, Patfinder 2.0, ShadowDark, and Savage World adventures.

[Tempered7]

Things You Can Do For Free in FGVTT (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?86773-Things-You-Can-Do-For-Free-in-FGVTT) - TONS OF FREE STUFF FOR MANY RULESETS.

ADDED TO TAVERN IN THE FORUMS.

Free Resources Page (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?82149-Solo-Play-Guide-for-FGU-INDEX&p=721510&viewfull=1#post721510) Updated.

[claedawg]

Dungeon Tileset by FlexTale

The whole Bundle is on sale right now for less than $30.00 USD

[Tempered7]

Dungeon Tileset by FlexTale

The whole Bundle is on sale right now for less than $30.00 USD

Thanks clae. It's 20$ now.

Link: https://www.drivethrurpg.com/en/product/485711/flextale-infinite-adventures-dungeons

Warning though: 1500 maps [images and PDFs] but they all have Secret Doors drawn as [S] in the maps so it kinda has spoilers.

https://www.drivethrurpg.com/images/9638/_product_images/485711/Infinite_Adventures_Dungeons_Preview_01.jpg

[claedawg]

There are multiple maps of the same area so you can use them as GM overlays. It confused me at first too.

[Griogre]

You are also supposed to roll to randomly select which ones are active as well, not everything is supposed to active. That way the when the tile is used in different places it has a different configuration. I like Flextales but I do think there are better map tile options, including free ones.

[Tempered7]

There are multiple maps of the same area so you can use them as GM overlays. It confused me at first too.

Oh, right, GM Overlay. Good idea!


You are also supposed to roll to randomly select which ones are active as well, not everything is supposed to active. That way the when the tile is used in different places it has a different configuration. I like Flextales but I do think there are better map tile options, including free ones.

Ah, good reminder cause I forgot how to use the first dungeon. It's been a while.
Tbh, after I've got accustomed to quickness and ease in RD1, even P&P feels cumbersome. xD

I wonder if the GM Overlay can be utilized in RD1?
I remember a video about making the tiles change shape. Maybe with gm overlay it can be done?
Just an idea.

EDIT: Oh! Maybe puzzles can be done this way?

[claedawg]

If Images could be manipulated by players it would make for some interesting puzzles.

[Griogre]

Oh, right, GM Overlay. Good idea!
...
EDIT: Oh! Maybe puzzles can be done this way?

The best thing I've seen done with layers with puzzles is you can do those old-style rotating T intersections with them. The fog of war does show the original setting though.

[Tempered7]

The best thing I've seen done with layers with puzzles is you can do those old-style rotating T intersections with them. The fog of war does show the original setting though.

Oh, I forgot the fog of war.
I was thinking something like a puzzle that reveals the spoilers when you do certain things with an Overlay flip [by pressing the visible button.
It's hard to express but Im probably making it more complex than it should be.

Still, rotating T intersections can lead to Maze type puzzles which is in line with the exploration focus.
Hmm, LoS [invisible walls] that doesn't let characters pass when the puzzle is not solved?

Example,
" x [PC] |-----hall----+ [crossroad] "
You shall not pass!
PC solves it by rotating the " | " which makes it a hypotethical " -> "
It becomes " —> ---hall---+ [crossroads] "
And they can pass.
But orf course it will be more complex than that, and one rotation will affect the entire maze.

I hope I made sense.

[Tempered7]

Expanded Role Substitution Table (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?86564-Principals-for-Creating-Solo-Viable-Builds&p=756559&viewfull=1#post756559) FOR EACH CLASS ADDED TO THE Quick Solo Char-Gen Method
It's under the BASE RACES TABLE. SCROLL DOWN A BIT.

[Tempered7]

I prepared another build before going back to rest for today. IN 5E SOLO BUILDS THREAD (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?86529-D-amp-D-5E-2014-Solo-Builds-for-the-Combat-Guide-Infographics)

002. Goliath Battle Master: Master of Maneuvers. [Guide] & [Narrative] (http://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/1ojk8r0ae4n2p7v4nkltk/Goliath-BM-The_Avalanche_Engine.pdf?rlkey=x2h59ens1cp5b2z2j6l art1r5&st=w8sd9n5s&dl=0) in one.
Here's the Goliath Battle Master XML FILES (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=67009&stc=1&d=1775238249). // & PDF FILES (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=67010&stc=1&d=1775238257).

https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=67011&d=1775238818

YOU ARE NOT PLAYING A CHARACTER TRYING TO SURVIVE THE WORLD.
YOU ARE PLAYING A DISASTER THE WORLD IS TRYING TO SURVIVE.

[Tempered7]

I prepared another build before going back to rest for today. 5E SOLO BUILDS THREAD (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?86529-D-amp-D-5E-2014-Solo-Builds-for-the-Combat-Guide-Infographics)

002. Goliath Battle Master: Master of Maneuvers. [Guide] & [Narrative] (http://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/1ojk8r0ae4n2p7v4nkltk/Goliath-BM-The_Avalanche_Engine.pdf?rlkey=x2h59ens1cp5b2z2j6l art1r5&st=w8sd9n5s&dl=0) in one.
Here's the Goliath Battle Master XML FILES (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=67009&stc=1&d=1775238249). // & PDF FILES (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=67010&stc=1&d=1775238257).

YOU ARE NOT PLAYING A CHARACTER TRYING TO SURVIVE THE WORLD.
YOU ARE PLAYING A DISASTER THE WORLD IS TRYING TO SURVIVE.

Since most people here wants to learn solo fighter, I started to produce some AI Podcasts with Fighter Theme, starting with the Goliath BattleMaster and its synthesis of mechanics and narrative.

Fighter AI Podcasts #1: How math creates better D&D stories (https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/7lzvlzmhodybvslslkgum/Why_math_creates_better_D-D_stories.m4a?rlkey=kokgfvaz70wi1rzzl2t93ilbn&st=8s6ia43q&dl=0)?

The main subject of the first podcast is narrative synthesis, a philosophy that rejects the idea that mechanical optimization and deep roleplaying are mutually exclusive. By analyzing a specific high-powered character build called the Avalanche Engine [the Goliath BM], we demonstrate how ruthless mathematical calculation provides the necessary foundation for compelling storytelling and character competence.

Statistics represent life trials rather than arbitrary numbers, allowing players to treat combat as a "cohesive sentence" where actions, bonus actions, and reactions function as grammar. Ultimately, optimization enables performance, framing the rules of the game as sheet music that the player must transform into a grand, emotional song.NEXT: Elaborating on the pros and cons of being a martial powerhouse in terms of game mechanics. We will continue exploring the limits of the Goliath BattleMaster.

[Tempered7]

Goliath Battlemaster Continued...

FIGHTER AI PODCASTS #2 (https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/orxecfa9uls2nql8c3mgg/Hardening_the_Avalanche_Engine_Goliath.m4a?rlkey=y 0r7zniyyejo2kt2blv7w56g1&st=14l1ojsx&dl=0): Hardening the Avalanche Engine [AI Debate on the gaps of the build and my suggestions]

Hardening the avalanche engine (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?86529-D-amp-D-5E-2014-Solo-Builds-for-the-Combat-Guide-Infographics&p=761545&viewfull=1#post761545) [Battle Tactics / Infographic]

EDIT: BONUS INFOGRAPHIC (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?86529-D-amp-D-5E-2014-Solo-Builds-for-the-Combat-Guide-Infographics&p=761549&viewfull=1#post761549) [Extra Tactics / NO PDF]

[Tempered7]

ALL IN Solo Builds for the Combat Guide (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?86529-D-amp-D-5E-2014-Solo-Builds-for-the-Combat-Guide-Infographics)

Post #11 (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?86529-D-amp-D-5E-2014-Solo-Builds-for-the-Combat-Guide-Infographics&p=761549&viewfull=1#post761549) has an added PDF for;

Hardening the Avalanche Engine BONUS [the one with the extra tactics]
NEW! [PDF IS HERE (https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/udrf3yua39jh1oujz35xh/The-Avalanche-Engine-Tactics.pdf?rlkey=c1k7q2oa2de0x86v9jkmgir6q&st=bekyqpft&dl=0) WITH ADDENDUM!]
Also added in post #14 (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?86529-D-amp-D-5E-2014-Solo-Builds-for-the-Combat-Guide-Infographics&p=761864&viewfull=1#post761864);

HARDENING THE AVALANCHE ENGINE: SYSTEM RESTART PROTOCOL
WHEN YOU ARE PARALYZED OR STUNNED -- PDF IS HERE (https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/20xpgool4ukmp00glk9rr/The-Avalanche-Failsafe.pdf?rlkey=3el4bh6ro65vfy2c1u64x1en8&st=n7vm12rs&dl=0)
[I]"YOU ARE FLAWED TO PERFECTION!"
NEW SERIES: TRANSLATING ABILITY SCORES INTO CHARACTER HISTORY

Part 1 (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?86529-D-amp-D-5E-2014-Solo-Builds-for-the-Combat-Guide-Infographics&p=761866&viewfull=1#post761866), Part 2 (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?86529-D-amp-D-5E-2014-Solo-Builds-for-the-Combat-Guide-Infographics&p=761867&viewfull=1#post761867), Part 3 (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?86529-D-amp-D-5E-2014-Solo-Builds-for-the-Combat-Guide-Infographics&p=761868&viewfull=1#post761868).

Im thinking about doing this for all Backgrounds -> Tactical Agendas... Later.
The text is not finished yet.

[Tempered7]

Feedback Needed:

Would you like to see the builds [not just fighter] as pre-gens as a part of the Module? Cause it'll take some more time and they will require PHB, DMG, /other sourcebooks.

Secondly, Does anyone here want me to add an evoker or war caster or any other wizard subclass in the guide as a main showcase?

Previously on Fighter Part (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?82149-Solo-Play-Guide-for-FGU-INDEX&p=754922&viewfull=1#post754922)

PROGRESS SO FAR: Anything else any of you want me to add?

+ = done
x = missing

Solo Wizard Build Options


1+ - Solo Optimization Principles for Wizards [Action Econ, Zone of Control, Substitution, Defense/Resources, Min-Max]
2+ - Optimal Wizard Subclass: Abjurer
2.0+ - Other Subclasses for Wizard Builds [Just a table that summarizes 6 other subclasses]
2.1+ - Race and Traits for Wizardry Optimization
2.2+ - Other Races for Wizard Builds [less viable / flavor races]
[B]3+ - Optimized Wizardry Feat Progression and Synergy: Offensive Path for the Abjurer only. [Would any of you want to use an Evoker/OtherSubclass feat progression?]
4+ - Strategic Itemization for Wizards
x Table 1: Optimal Solo Wizard Build: Abjurer
---
5+ - Optimal Action Econ Wizard Subclass: Necromancy [Action Econ, Zone of Control, Self-sufficiency, Strategic Synergies]
5.1+ - Race and Traits for Necromancy Optimization
5.2+ - Other Races for Necromancy Builds
x 6 - Optimized Necromancy Feat Progression and Synergy
x 7 - Strategic Itemization for Necromancy
x Table 2: Optimal Solo Necromancy Build

Stratagems x --- Maybe one summary that combines all of the below into one stratagem?

x? General


x Know Thyself
x Other Subclasses
x Know Thine Enemy
Assess Thy Plan (+)

x ZoC


x Know Thine Zone
x Know Enemy's Zone
x Devise Thy Plan

x Action Econ


x Calculate Thine Econ
x Know Enemy's Econ
x Execute Thine Plan

[Tempered7]

NEW VIDEO [7:18] ABOUT THE SYNTHESIS APPROACH BASICS UPLOADED
[Sorry for the AI Voice]

27cp6HqPUIw

And here's the AI Podcast [19:40] of it with more detail:

Why Optimization Fuels Better Roleplay (https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/0s1lfsj0qps3avpp52fr1/Why_Optimization_Fuels_Better_Roleplay.m4a?rlkey=7 z8i0synvw1dep4zz9ot9y1tf&st=h1zruv5o&dl=0)

The Synthesis Approach serves as a methodology for tabletop gamers to bridge the gap between mechanical optimization and deep roleplaying, effectively dismantling the Stormwind Fallacy which falsely claims these two goals are mutually exclusive.

By treating every number on a character sheet as a script of the hero’s history, players can transform abstract statistics and level-ups into narrative trials that reflect a character’s hard-won resilience and identity. High-performing builds actually enhance immersion, as mechanical supremacy provides the necessary buffer for a character to survive and meaningfully contribute to a legendary story.

The framework encourages players to view their abilities as identity performances, where tactical choices like high intelligence become calculating foresight and physical traits represent specific, lived ordeals.

[Tempered7]

Here's the 2nd part of the video which is the first half of the podcast [but in a video format]:
Both 10 mins.

Part 2 and 3 is different and broader than the previous AI podcast in Build Guides.

5vnEasD0Zyg

And this is the 3rd and last part:

BBQMxtmvym4

[Tempered7]

I was gonna mention this but I forgot:

BRP has Unofficial Solo Rules, I had no idea.

Basic Fantasy Roleplaying Game [BRP]: There is a PDF in this thread (https://www.basicfantasy.org/forums/viewtopic.php?t=4519) for Solo Rules. Download link (https://www.basicfantasy.org/forums/download/file.php?id=6219&sid=6f3aa802bd4096c71f9138b379b77e2e) for the PDF itself.

I downloaded it but haven't find the chance to read it yet.
Considering I never played BRP, I don't assume I'd understand anything beyond general solo mechanics, but when I have the chance I'll dive into it.

Solo play is all about tools, more the merrier.

[Tempered7]

As some of you noticed, I am working on a new Thread: SOLO RPG Resources for FGU (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?87174-SOLO-RPG-Resources-for-FGU)
For the ones who checked it, I just finished the 1st page of the list of Missing Solo Adventures (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?87174-SOLO-RPG-Resources-for-FGU&p=762015&viewfull=1#post762015).

It will not finish any time soon but right now, it has enough titles listed in it for an announcement.
Some of the free/pwyw stuff just like the EPA Playbook below will not be in it for there's not enough space for them.
I'll add most of the free stuff into: Things You Can Do For Free in FGVTT (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?86773-Things-You-Can-Do-For-Free-in-FGVTT)

SOLO EPA Playbook (Version 3) (https://www.dmsguild.com/en/product/383402/solo-epa-playbook-version-3) [FREE]

For Forgotten Realms
By
Wraith Wright Productions

This book is simply a collection of advice that might improve your solo play experience, including some optional pre-made characters for EPA solo adventures but the methods apply to any setting.

Contents

ENHANCED PLAY
Making a Character
Suggested Tools
“DMing” for Yourself
Modes of Play
PDF Readers

PRE-MADE CHARACTERS
Dallin Do An
Kayce
Mordonio
Roldona of the Rain

APPENDICES
Renown Tallies
Event Code Checklists
Lore Checklist

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NEW SERIES:
BACKGROUNDS AS TACTICAL AGENDAS - 1
Player's Handbook (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?86529-D-amp-D-5E-2014-Solo-Builds-for-the-Combat-Guide-Infographics&p=762898&viewfull=1#post762898)

Acolyte and Charlatan are finished:
These expand my Synthesis Approach [Combat Mechanics + Roleplay = RPG]
by turning Backgrounds into memorable mindsets for both combat and roleplay.

When I find time, I'll post new ones to complete PHB,
then Sword Coast Adventurer's Guide, then the other rulebooks.

Enjoy!

https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=67277&stc=1&d=1777931656
https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=67278&stc=1&d=1777931727

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ADDED TO 6.2. Missing Solo Storybooks (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?87174-SOLO-RPG-Resources-for-FGU&p=762015&viewfull=1#post762015) in SOLO RPG Resources for FGU (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?87174-SOLO-RPG-Resources-for-FGU)

Curse of Strahd for Solo Adventurers (https://www.dmsguild.com/en/product/467134/curse-of-strahd-for-solo-adventurers) [PDF]
&
Escape from Barovia, a Solo Adventure (https://www.dmsguild.com/en/product/437313/escape-from-barovia-a-solo-adventure) [PDF]
by drake rupple [PWYW / dmsguild]

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ADDED TO DEEP DIVE (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?82149-Solo-Play-Guide-for-FGU-INDEX&p=721438&viewfull=1#post721438):

1.1. Storytelling the Future -NEWEST!


CDPR Game Design Philosophy and Ways to Apply It to TTRPGs (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?87329-CDPR-Game-Design-Philosophy-and-Ways-to-Apply-It-to-TTRPG)
Roles, Gigs, and Subgenres in Cyberpunk (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?87328-Roles-Gigs-and-Subgenres-Solo-Play-Article)
!WARNING: Dark Themes! Director's Guide to Cinematic Campaigns (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?87331-Director-s-Guide-to-Cinematic-Campaigns-Infographics) [Infographics / Cyberpunk]

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ADDED TO "2. Solo Systems with Built-in Oracles (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?87174-SOLO-RPG-Resources-for-FGU&p=762009&viewfull=1#post762009)" in Thread: SOLO RPG Resources for FGU (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?87174-SOLO-RPG-Resources-for-FGU)

Fallout RPG: Wasteland Wanderer: A Solo Roleplaying Game (SW Store (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/store/product.php?id=MUH0580244) / Steam (https://store.steampowered.com/app/4735250/Fantasy_Grounds__Fallout_RPG_Wasteland_Wanderer_A_ Solo_Roleplaying_Game/)).
[!] Confirmation required for if it can be played in the free ruleset with SRD?
EDIT: It works!

Also, links added to other solo sources.

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FALLOUT ENJOYERS WHO NEED MORE MAPS

Thanks to this (https://www.reddit.com/r/Fallout2d20/comments/okklek/fallout_2d20_roll20_maps/) reddit post and a tip from SW devs, I found these goodies and wanted to share them with you.

Stoneworker Cartography has free setting-agnostic maps that can go well with Fallout 2d20 Solo or Group play.
They just need a bit of work. Just use the images instead of PDFs and add LoS in easiest way you know.

https://www.drivethrurpg.com/browse/pub/5877/Stoneworker-Cartography (https://www.drivethrurpg.com/browse/pub/5877/Stoneworker-Cartography)

And this Google Doc below shows every Homebrew source for Fallout: Sadly, no FGU modules, but you can convert anything.

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HhX8yGHIgy8CV7HXK0wSClxCygMUGY4gMmIMm5Y62Ck/edit#

Random Generators links in it are something to check for soloists and GMs.

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ADDED TO 9. For Pathfinder 1E / DnD 3.5E Players (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?86773-Things-You-Can-Do-For-Free-in-FGVTT&p=758331&viewfull=1#post758331) in Things You Can Do For Free in FGVTT (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?86773-Things-You-Can-Do-For-Free-in-FGVTT)

With the permission of ddavison, I'd like to share D&D 3.5E fans a good news:

There are SRD modules in https://dndsrd35e.com/resources.html that add to basic srd modules that come free with FGU. Made by meltivore.




These downloads are some custom modules I [meltivore] made for running my FG 3.5e games over the last six or so years, once I figured out the not-so-secret sauce for making modules.
Some require the 3.5 Essentials ruleset included with Fantasy Grounds in order for reference links to work, e.g. Cleric Domain spell lists.

Place them in the .\SmiteWorks\Fantasy Grounds\modules directory and Activate them within the app under Modules, most are prefixed with Meltivore
(an NPC wizard from decades ago).

NPCs (https://dndsrd35e.com/resources/Meltivores_Monsters.mod) - Over 200, some custom, some from books, adventure modules, and magazines. ~ Last updated 2026-Jan-23
Modifiers and Effects (https://dndsrd35e.com/resources/Meltivores_Effects_and_Modifiers.mod) - Not the kitchen sink, but ones we used frequently in our games. ~ Last updated 2026-Feb-06
Spells and Domains (https://dndsrd35e.com/resources/Meltivores_Spells.mod) - 100+ Spells and an additional 30+ Cleric Domains. ~ Last updated 2026-Apr-16
Summon Monster/Nature's Ally (https://dndsrd35e.com/resources/Summoning.zip) - When someone summoned a creature it took far too long to sort out, especially when celestial or fiendish. And sorry, they currently
only go from I to V, since our campaigns haven't reached more than 10th-level yet. ~ Last updated 2026-Apr-02
Magic Items (https://dndsrd35e.com/resources/Meltivores_Magic_Items.mod) - 125+ so far. I got tired of adjusting mundane armor and weapons for bonuses and powers when handing out magic items, so I premade a pile of them.
Also included is a bunch of custom items from other sources and some I created (a few are still lacking cost and creation info). ~ Last updated 2026-Mar-23
Mundane Items (https://dndsrd35e.com/resources/Meltivores_Mundane_Items.mod) - Additional armor and weapons from other sources I felt were missing from this edition (or wanted to add). I got tired of adjusting composite bows for
strength bonuses and remaking special arrows. There are also trade goods here as well, like bars of gold. ~ Last updated 2026-Mar-19
Poisons (https://dndsrd35e.com/resources/Meltivores_Poisons.mod) - 36 poisons from the SRD and history, e.g. antimony and hemlock. ~ Last updated 2026-Mar-26
PreGen Characters (https://dndsrd35e.com/resources/Meltivores_Pre-Gen_Characters.mod) - A handful of 4th-level generic characters so we can have an impromptu game (may lack some detail, but they save time when we have only
a couple of hours). ~ Last updated 2026-Jun-09
Campaign Items (https://dndsrd35e.com/resources/Campaign_Items.mod) - A collection of informational images, Feats, half-drow as a race, Armor Training and Bravery for Fighters (stolen from PF1), and a bunch of deities from
my campaign. The images show how range increments work, rules for turning undead, spiritual weapon effects, essentially things we kept looking up because we don't play
often enough. ~ Last updated 2026-Feb-07

Portraits (https://dndsrd35e.com/resources/Meltivores_Portraits.ppk) - 90 headshots offering a variety of individuals. ~ Last updated 2025-Aug-07
Place this one in the .\SmiteWorks\Fantasy Grounds\portraits, no Activation necessary, and will be found in Assets > Portraits.




/EDIT/
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GEMSTONES (https://forge.fantasygrounds.com/shop/items/3448/view): There is also gemstone module by LordEntrails (https://forge.fantasygrounds.com/crafter/28/view-profile) (with his permission) but there is also updated version of it so I link LE's post here (https://www.fantasygrounds.com/forums/showthread.php?26625-Gemstone-Items-Module). It's in the 2nd NOTE. License: CC-BY-SA. It basically means anyone can do anything with it as long as they credit LordEntrails and what work they create from it also has the same license. i.e. keep it free and give credit.

EDIT 2: License note added.
EDIT 3: Forge link added.