A game module is a pre-made adventure a GM can buy. Some tie into specific game settings/ worlds, while others are more generic. They’re popular for Game Masters just starting out, who don’t have enough time to write full adventures, or for when one just need something to run. They’re the frozen dinners of D&D.
Today’s module is We Be Goblins!, Paizo’s Free RPG Day 2011 contribution. It’s design for a single game session, quick to the action but not much beyond that. I ran it at Evercon 2013 in January with four players. We didn’t finish, but it was a good time.
The module uses the Pathfinder system (which will get it‘s own review), making it compatible with D&D 3.5. The focus is on Goblins with a choice of making a regular character or four pre-generated goblin characters. The pregens are fun and all you really need. The Licktoad village chief tasks the group to follow a map made by an exiled goblin to a fireworks stash. Before they go the village throws a party with dares like a game of “Hide or Get Clubbed.” Success brings loans of magic items and greater chance to survive.
I like the insight into Pathfinder’s version of goblin society and the opportunity to play the bad guys, even if players don’t get to do anything too evil. I like the flavor text and internal logic of the area. The challenges start easy but increase to what can be a tough climax.
It‘s not perfect of course. The ship’s layout is a little unclear, making it hard to tell what’s where and how the areas are connected. The XP is off in one encounter; not a big deal but it worries me to see that in an official product. Also I’m a little unhappy with the Rita the Fighter’s lack of armor. While players are allowed to create their own characters, that’s usually too time consuming for a one shot. Still, it’s fun and a good introduction to Pathfinder. Paizo ties WBG! to the Jade Regent Adventure Path for those interested.
As I mentioned, it was originally free at game-stores. It now sells for $5 to $10 online, which is more than a 16-page adventure is worth. Instead, download from Paizo here. I look forward to seeing what Paizo does for Free RPG Day 2013 on June 15. (link)
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