The Masterwork Scroll

Ever play the Elder Scrolls game, Morrowind?

This game is about reading books. Fuck loads of books.

So it is an expansive fantasy game. With about as many books as suicidal Cleveland Cavalier fans. As of today, that’s a lot.

Oh, the game’s got other things. Drow, lizardmen, a crack-like drug called skooma .  . . but the thing is reading is the true drug in this game. It totally jacks up your skills, bro!

Anyways enough making fun of this game (which, in truth, isn’t half bad) — the whole reason I bring this topic up is because this game is ripping off every D&D game I’ve ever run.  I’ve been dishing out the odd little bonuses for books since the mid-90’s.

Examples you say – fine.

Key Battles of the Lowland Invasion – This large, smoke-grey book contains in-depth discussions regarding the tactics used by both sides of the Lowland Invasion. Each ‘key battle’ is given an entire chapter, replete with maps, interviews of soldiers, and decent artwork depicting the skirmishes. The best part of the book is its attempt to maintain a relatively neutral stance, something the author prides himself on during his long-winded prologue. — A PC who studies this book gains a +1 bonus to Knowledge (local) checks when in the Lowland region. Additionally, the PC grants a +1 bonus to AC to all allies within 10 feet of him during any combat considered mass warfare (a large-scale battle, a siege, etc.)

It’s late. That’s all you guys get.