[HOE] Re: Twisted tale

[Nyarlathothep132@aol.com]

 I never, ever set out to kill players. I usually set out to keep most of 'em alive, and they end up dying anyway. Which usually means I might write scenarios that are too difficult. I thought scenario balance might be an interesting topic of conversation...
I'm of the philosophy as to let the chips fall where they may- it is a game after all, and player death is vital. Anecdote: Before the first time I killed a character in this group, they'd play like their characters were immortal. Now, when they take risks, they know they are taking actual risks. Add's tension. But what's not really in my philosophy is to kill everyone- it derails a game right there. Which it did, in my late and lamented HOE's case.

I hate to give hints, and as a player, I hate to get hints. 

In this case, both players were quite clear on what Monkey Goes to the Mountain and Eldritch Shield did. 

As for the Black Hat charger, he didn't go into the middle of the black hats- he ran out in front of 'em. Think of being executed by firing squad, with automatic weapons. (He said "I'm probably going to die if I try this...but..." Famous last words?)

To be honest, as I review the situation, I gave 'em a challenge, and they didn't survive it. They could have- there was the possibility of success. It was a tough scenario, but not impossible. So I guess it's just one of those things.