Disclosure: As a frequent ICE/GCP customer, I received this product at a reduced price. This has no bearing on my review, but it is worth noting.
This is the second edition (or third, depending on who you ask) of HARP, re-written to be compatible with HARP Sci-Fi. The changes are minor, but pervasive. Changes from the previous version include re-balancing of the races and professions, due to feedback from 8 years of playtesting.
Likes:
-The new typefaces are easy to read and there is new interior artwork.
-Will feel familiar to Rolemaster players, but plays fast enough to hold the interest of other gamers. (This is a big plus in mixed groups)
-A POD version is in the works. This might actually be the book that gets me to try print-on-demand.
-Single roll combat resolution! (A big plus for people who are not fans of Rolemaster).
-Very few typos or grammatical errors. (Because, as a matter of fact, I AM the grammar police. )
Dislikes:
-No Hyperlinks or bookmarks in the PDF.
-Because of balance changes, the new rules are not backwards-compatible with previously released products in this line. (Such as "College of Magics").
Overview: No system is perfect, but this one comes close. I can't wait for more monsters, spells, and professions in future releases. Generally speaking, any book that leaves me wanting more gets high marks.
Rating: [4 of 5 Stars!] |