BFRPG Apocalypse Setting

[SmootRK]

Thanks. The idea I have is to be as completely interchangeable with STD bfrpg as is possible. I like the idea that characters should be able to be ported between settings, like the old rules in DMG for boot hill and gamma world.

Also, even within this setting, I am trying to compartmentalize the various regions so that the GM has control over the setting elements. The different regions can be developed as independently as wanted or as connected as the GM desires. Think sorta like the Ravenloft realms each operated with its own rules.

The region run primarily by ape-men is ringed by a dangerous radiological desert (forbidden zone). The morlock and Eloi zone is an isolated island surrounded by treacherous waters...etc. Transport between regions is up to the GM to decide how easy or difficult it should be.

[Joe the Rat]

Also, even within this setting, I am trying to compartmentalize the various regions so that the GM has control over the setting elements. The different regions can be developed as independently as wanted or as connected as the GM desires. Think sorta like the Ravenloft realms each operated with its own rules.

Reminds me a bit more of TORG. Theirs was shattered reality based - complete with different genres in each zone.

The modularity is good - it lets you pick which types of weirdness you want to use. Upswing the radiation and modern tech, and downplay the range of mutants (mutant or not, really), you get a bit more Fallout-like. Combine Super-Science and Sorcery, but with more Beast-men than human mutants, and bam - Thundarr. Drop the sorcery side, bam - Kamandi.

[SmootRK]

So, I am about to write up our own BFRPG version of Ape-Men (Simians) which will be loosely based upon the older "Planet of the Apes" movies/tv-show, at least in the sense they are intended as more man-like in ability and form (and roughly equal to each other; Gorilla vs. Orang vs. Chimp).
While the newer movies of full strength animals with human intelligence might make good visuals and movie sparkle, I don't think it would work well for rpg races... why play a human when these would be available?

Then comes my query... any input on what might be considered in making these races? certain qualities that I should keep in mind? etc. I am looking for some input here.

[MedievalMan]

I always loved the first 2 movies for a number of reasons. As for things to keep in mind, I personally think the most important aspect is their tiered social structure. Gorillas were soldiers and military leaders, Chimps were scientists and researchers, and Orangs were politicians and religious leaders. Maybe keep that in mind when saying who can be what class.

[SmootRK]

I always loved the first 2 movies for a number of reasons. As for things to keep in mind, I personally think the most important aspect is their tiered social structure. Gorillas were soldiers and military leaders, Chimps were scientists and researchers, and Orangs were politicians and religious leaders. Maybe keep that in mind when saying who can be what class.

Yes, those are my favorite aspects as well, although for the sake of being able to produce this without too much worry about the Copyright Police, I must try to be very vague in wording (but plainly obvious in the inspirational direction of the material). It will be up to the GM/Players to hash out exact details to achieve their desired setting.

The other idea that should be incorporated is some sort of Ape-Man in the vein of John Carter's Mars... a barbaric near-wild sort of white-ape or something. Thoughts?

[MedievalMan]

You could just make them generic apemen with different castes. That's always an option.

[SmootRK]

You could just make them generic apemen with different castes. That's always an option.

Yes, The approach I am taking is that there is just one 'race' of such ape-men, but sub-divided by their obvious racial background. Wondering even if I should say something about the apes interbreed freely, though the results of any breeding always produces one of the two parental breeds with equal chances for either (ie there are no Orang/Gorilla hybrids with special characteristics).

That said, the Race/Caste strongly suggests certain roles and inclinations. Class choice is not specifically dictated, and they often find ways to make any particular class work within their caste. Obviously though, some classes are rarer in certain sub-groups, and others more inclined.
Orangs tend toward socio-political, bureaucratic/clerical/clergy oriented, and managerial roles. They are keepers of the faith and orthodoxy. They are often solitary, thoughtful, and are often defacto rulers of their societies.
Chimps are generally the brightest and pursue intellectual pursuits as often as more mundane roles. Sometimes they lack a degree of self-control, but individuals of Chimp backgrounds are extremely varied individuals. They are also the most numerous sub-group. (I may include an extra minority of Bonobo modeled individuals).
Gorillas are generally a tad larger, but on the average a little less sharp witted than the other sub-groups. Despite a passive individual mentality, they are generally group oriented and can be guided by the right kind of leader into military units quite well. Clearly they are well suited physically for such paths.

... more coming

[MedievalMan]

Man Smoot you got me thinking about Planet of the Apes now. I loved those movies when I was a kid.

[Fullmmetal515]

Fiendish gorillons > Jon carter's white apes

[Joe the Rat]

The beauty of it is you could write up a "monster group" of ape-men, and include a variety. GMs can pick and choose as needed (perhaps they want a more homogeneous ape group).