Unlock the Power: Synergy Bonus in DragonMech

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. The Origins of Dragon Mech
3. The Setting of High Point
4. The Lunar Gods and Celestial War
5. Races and Classes in Dragon Mech
6. Mechs and Mech Combat
7. The City of Edge
8. The Iron Tooth Clans and Independent Plans
9. Steam Wizards and Steam-Powered Cyborgs
10. Travel and Trade in Dragon Mech
11. Final Thoughts on Dragon Mech

Article:

Introduction

Welcome back to Synergy Bonus! Today, We Are delving into the exciting world of Dragon Mech, a setting for the d20 system. Dragon Mech was published in 2004 under the ownership of Sword & Sworcery, which was later licensed to Goodman Games. This unique setting brings together elements of steampunk, mechs, and high fantasy, creating a thrilling backdrop for tabletop gaming enthusiasts.

The Origins of Dragon Mech

Dragon Mech holds a special place in the hearts of many gamers, as it was born out of a drunken bet between two game designers. Josh Goodman and another unnamed designer were engaged in a conversation about game design and mecha, when the other designer challenged Goodman to find a way to incorporate mechs into the D&D system. Accepting the challenge, Goodman spent a year crafting the Dragon Mech setting, a testament to his creativity and determination.

The Setting of High Point

Dragon Mech takes place in the world of High Point, a unique planet with distinct features. One of the defining characteristics of High Point is its changing tides, which rise and fall by approximately 30 feet Based on the seasons. This affects the landscape, making it predominantly flat and causing most species, except for the underground-dwelling dwarves, to become nomadic.

Another significant aspect of High Point is the moon, which has been gradually crashing through the atmosphere over the course of 200 years. The moon's impact has resulted in a post-apocalyptic, steampunk world, with lunar Dust filling the air and meteorites striking the surface. The moon also brought with it lunar creatures, adding another layer of danger to the already precarious lives of the planet's inhabitants.

The Lunar Gods and Celestial War

In the world of Dragon Mech, a celestial war is raging among the greater gods. This war has immense implications for the setting, as it affects the reliability of divine magic. Every day, spellcasters have a 50% chance of their spells failing to work, leading to a loss of faith in the terrestrial gods. However, the lunar gods remain strong, as their followers' belief sustains them.

This shift in power has caused many to turn to arcane casters for protection. Unburdened by the celestial war's effects, wizards and sorcerers have become Beacons of hope for the masses. This development further deepens the divide between the terrestrial and arcane casters, creating an intriguing and volatile atmosphere within High Point.

Races and Classes in Dragon Mech

Dragon Mech introduces several unique races that call High Point home. From the mysterious fish-like Chaga to the Sylvan race and the formidable Tourtaks, each race adds its own flavor to the setting. Additionally, the Drow, who have made an alliance with the Dwarven Confederation, play a significant role in the game, controlling trade and wielding substantial political influence.

The classes in Dragon Mech have also been adapted to suit the setting. Mechanically inclined Coglayers harness steam power and build devices that mimic spells. The Iron Tooth Clans, a group of nomadic humans, provide a contrast to the Dwarven Confederation's strict rule. Other classes, such as Rangers and Paladins, have undergone modifications to fit seamlessly into the steampunk world of Dragon Mech.

Mechs and Mech Combat

Mechs form the Core of Dragon Mech's gameplay. These massive, steam-powered constructs serve as both transportation and weapons of war. Several classes, including Mech Jockeys and Coglayers, are specifically designed to Interact with these behemoths. Mech combat in Dragon Mech is unique, with mechs having a condition track instead of hit points. Critical hits can disable different parts of a mech, adding an element of strategy to battles.

Steam power and limited resources, such as Water, become vital considerations in mech combat. Each mech carries water to generate steam, and running out of steam can lead to defeat. Mech combat in Dragon Mech offers an opportunity for teamwork and creative problem-solving as players must manage their resources and pilot their mechs effectively.

The City of Edge

One of the prominent locations in Dragon Mech is the city of Edge, the largest stationary city in High Point. Located on the edge of a cliff, it is divided into two sections, with one half perched atop the cliff and the other half residing within the cliff itself. Edge is known for its unique transportation system, where people ride a subterranean river and then catch a mech back to the city during the appropriate season. This city serves as a hub for trade and features prominently in the adventures of Dragon Mech.

The Iron Tooth Clans and Independent Plans

The Iron Tooth Clans are a group of nomadic humans who have rejected the rule of the Dwarven Confederation. They have developed their own independent plans and work on their terms. These renegades Seek freedom and shun the restrictions of the Confederation. The Iron Tooth Clans add depth to the political landscape of High Point and provide adventurers with an alternative path to follow.

Steam Wizards and Steam-Powered Cyborgs

Dragon Mech introduces the concept of Steam Wizards, magical practitioners who manipulate steam and inventions to cast spells. These individuals Blend the realms of magic and technology, giving rise to their unique abilities. Steam-powered cyborgs also make an appearance, incorporating steam technology into their bodies and becoming formidable warriors. The Fusion of magic and machinery adds an extra layer of intrigue to the already vibrant world of Dragon Mech.

Travel and Trade in Dragon Mech

Travel and trade play vital roles in Dragon Mech. The setting presents a complex network of trade routes and transportation methods, including riding the subterranean river and traveling through the perilous landscape on mechs. Different species, such as dwarves, drow, and halflings, have adapted their trading practices to the changing world. The strategic considerations and dangers involved in trade routes make it a fascinating aspect of the game.

Final Thoughts on Dragon Mech

Dragon Mech is a unique and engaging setting that seamlessly blends steampunk, mechs, and fantasy elements. The well-crafted Lore, intriguing races, and the focus on mech combat provide a fresh and exciting gaming experience. The setting offers ample room for role-playing opportunities, tactical battles, and creative problem-solving. Whether You are a fan of mechs, steampunk, or high fantasy, Dragon Mech is a tabletop game that is worth exploring.

Overall, Dragon Mech is a Hidden gem in the realm of tabletop gaming. Its distinctive setting, innovative mechanics, and rich lore make it a must-play for enthusiasts looking for a fresh and immersive experience.

Highlights:

• Dragon Mech is a steampunk-inspired setting for the d20 system that combines mechs, high fantasy, and post-apocalyptic elements.
• The setting takes place in High Point, a world with changing tides, a crashing moon, and a celestial war that affects the reliability of divine magic.
• The game features unique races, such as the Chaga, Sylvans, and Tourtaks, as well as the influential Drow who control trade in the setting.
• Mech combat is a core aspect of Dragon Mech, with mechs having a condition track instead of hit points and players managing resources like steam and water.
• The city of Edge, perched on a cliff, serves as a central hub for trade and transports adventurers through a subterranean river.
• The Iron Tooth Clans provide an alternative path for adventurers and add depth to the political landscape of Dragon Mech.
• Steam Wizards and steam-powered cyborgs offer a fusion of magic and technology in the setting.
• Travel and trade play significant roles in the game, with various species adapting their trading practices to the changing world.
• Dragon Mech offers a unique and engaging gameplay experience, with ample opportunities for role-playing, tactical battles, and creative problem-solving.

FAQs:

Q: Can Dragon Mech be played with different editions of D&D? A: Dragon Mech was originally designed for the 3.5 edition of D&D, but it can be adapted to other d20 systems, such as Pathfinder or even the fifth edition of D&D with some tweaks.

Q: Are there rules for boarding and capturing enemy mechs in Dragon Mech? A: Yes, Dragon Mech includes rules for boarding and capturing enemy mechs, providing players with opportunities for inventive strategies and subduing their foes.

Q: Can players customize their mechs in Dragon Mech? A: Yes, Dragon Mech offers the option for players to customize their mechs, with a splatbook called "Eternal Traders" providing ideas for building or retrofitting mechs to suit individual preferences.

Q: Are there any expansions or additional content available for Dragon Mech? A: While Dragon Mech does not have any official expansions, there are several sourcebooks available that delve deeper into specific aspects of the setting, such as the city of Edge or the Iron Tooth Clans. Additionally, fans of the game have created their own homebrew content and adventures, which can be found online.

Q: Can I play Dragon Mech as a standalone game without prior knowledge of the d20 system or D&D? A: Dragon Mech is primarily designed as a supplement for the d20 system and assumes some familiarity with the rules. However, with some guidance and assistance, it is possible for beginners to enjoy Dragon Mech as a standalone game, as long as they have a basic understanding of tabletop role-playing games.