Robotech RPG: A Guide for Fans of Giant Robots
If you are a fan of giant robots, you might have heard of or played Robotech RPG, a role-playing game based on the popular anime series Robotech. But what exactly is Robotech RPG, how does it relate to the TV series storyline, how is it received by fans and critics, and what are some alternatives to it? In this article, we will answer these questions and more.
robotech rpg pdf download free
What is Robotech RPG?
Robotech RPG is a science fiction role-playing game that allows players to create characters and pilot mecha in a futuristic setting where Earth is invaded by three successive extraterrestrial forces. The game uses the Megaversal system, which features a point-based character creation system, a percentile-based skill system, and a damage system that distinguishes between normal damage and mega damage, which can only be inflicted or resisted by mecha and other advanced technology.
The origin and inspiration of Robotech RPG
Robotech RPG is based on the anime series Robotech, which was created by Harmony Gold USA in 1985 by combining and editing three different Japanese anime series: Super Dimension Fortress Macross, Super Dimension Cavalry Southern Cross, and Genesis Climber MOSPEADA. The series was a success in the US and other countries, introducing many viewers to the genre of mecha anime.
The first Robotech RPG was published by Palladium Books in 1986, with the permission of Harmony Gold. The game was designed by Kevin Siembieda, who also created the Megaversal system and other RPGs such as Rifts and Ninjas & Superspies. The game was intended to be faithful to the TV series storyline, but also to expand on it and allow players to create their own adventures.
The main features and mechanics of Robotech RPG
Robotech RPG has several features and mechanics that make it unique and appealing to fans of giant robots. Some of them are:
Mecha combat: The game allows players to pilot various types of mecha, such as Veritech Fighters, Battloids, Cyclones, and Destroids. Each mecha has its own stats, weapons, abilities, and modes of transformation. Mecha combat is fast-paced and dynamic, involving maneuvers, dodges, missile volleys, and melee attacks.
Mega-damage: The game introduces the concept of mega-damage, which is a special type of damage that can only be inflicted or resisted by mecha and other advanced technology. Mega-damage is equivalent to 100 points of normal damage, and can destroy most conventional vehicles and structures in one hit. Mega-damage also affects the scale of combat, as mecha can fight against huge enemies such as Zentraedi warships or Invid hives.
Character creation: The game uses a point-based character creation system, where players can choose from various occupational character classes (O.C.C.s), such as Veritech Pilot, Bioroid Pilot, or Invid Spy. Each O.C.C. has its own skills, abilities, equipment, and background. Players can also customize their characters by spending points on attributes, skills, secondary skills, and other options.
Skill system: The game uses a percentile-based skill system, where each skill has a percentage chance of success based on the character's level and modifiers. Skills are divided into categories such as Military Skills, Pilot Skills, or Rogue Skills. Skills can be used for various purposes, such as piloting mecha, hacking computers, repairing vehicles, or persuading NPCs.
Campaign setting: The game provides a rich and detailed campaign setting that covers the history, geography, factions, technology, and culture of the Robotech universe. The game also offers several scenarios and adventure hooks for different eras and locations, such as the First Robotech War, the Masters Saga, or the New Generation. The game encourages players to explore the setting and create their own stories.
How does Robotech RPG follow and diverge from the TV series storyline?
The Robotech RPG follows the TV series storyline in many aspects, but also diverges from it in some ways. This is because the game was designed to be both faithful and flexible, allowing players to experience the original story or create their own alternatives.
The three segments of Robotech as aired
The TV series storyline of Robotech is divided into three segments, each based on one of the Japanese anime series that were combined to create Robotech. These segments are:
robotech rpg books pdf free download
robotech rpg macross saga sourcebook pdf free
robotech rpg genesis pits sourcebook pdf free
robotech rpg shadow chronicles pdf free download
robotech rpg masters saga sourcebook pdf free
robotech rpg new generation sourcebook pdf free
robotech rpg expeditionary force marines sourcebook pdf free
robotech rpg sentinels pdf free download
robotech rpg invid invasion pdf free
robotech rpg southern cross pdf free download
robotech rpg zentraedi breakout pdf free
robotech rpg ghost ship pdf free download
robotech rpg lander's rockers pdf free
robotech rpg rdf accelerated training program pdf free
robotech rpg return of the masters pdf free download
robotech rpg new world order pdf free
robotech rpg ref field guide pdf free download
robotech rpg strike force pdf free
robotech rpg tactics rule book pdf free download
robotech rpg ring of fire fanbook pdf free
robotech rpg the insurrection fanbook pdf free
robotech rpg macross ii core rulebook pdf free
robotech rpg macross ii sourcebook one pdf free download
robotech rpg macross ii deck plans volume 1 pdf free
robotech rpg macross ii deck plans volume 2 pdf free download
robotech rpg macross ii deck plans volume 3 pdf free
robotech rpg character sheets pdf free download
robotech rpg cardstock miniatures pdf free
robotech art 1 the official guide to the tv series pdf free download
robotech art 2 the official guide to the movie and tv series sequel pdf free
robotech art 3 the sentinels official guide to the tv series sequel and role playing game pdf free download
robotech art 4 the official guide to the comics and novels of the sentinels era and beyond pdf free
robotech art 5 invid war aftermath official guide to the comics and novels of the invid war era and beyond pdf free download
robotech art 6 new world order official guide to the comics and novels of the new world order era and beyond pdf free
palladium books presents the best of the rifts and other role playing games fanzine vol.1 featuring articles on rifts, heroes unlimited, ninjas & superspies, beyond the supernatural, nightbane, palladium fantasy, tmnt, after the bomb, recon, splicers, system shock, and more! plus a complete adventure for rifts or any sci-fi setting: "the last patrol" by kevin siembieda! also includes a sneak peek at the upcoming rifts chaos earth sourcebook: rise of magic! all this and more in this jam-packed issue of palladium books presents! get your copy today for only $9.95! available in print or PDF format at [1](https://palladium-store.com/1001/product/1200-Palladium-Presents-The-Best-of-the-Rifts-and-other-RPG-Fanzine-Vol1.html) or [2](https://www.drivethrurpg.com/product/361726/Palladium-Presents-The-Best-of-the-Rifts-and-other-RPG-Fanzine-Vol1)
The Macross Saga: This segment covers episodes 1-36 of Robotech, and is based on Super Dimension Fortress Macross. It tells the story of how Earth is attacked by a giant alien race called the Zentraedi, who are after a mysterious alien spaceship that crashed on Earth. The spaceship, named the SDF-1, is rebuilt by humans and becomes their main defense against the invaders. The segment focuses on the adventures of the SDF-1 crew and their allies, such as the Veritech Fighter pilots, as they fight against the Zentraedi and try to find a way to end the war peacefully.
The Masters Saga: This segment covers episodes 37-60 of Robotech, and is based on Super Dimension Cavalry Southern Cross. It tells the story of how Earth is invaded by another alien race called the Robotech Masters, who are the creators of the Zentraedi and are looking for a powerful energy source called Protoculture. The segment focuses on the adventures of the Army of the Southern Cross, a military organization that defends Earth from the Masters, and their leader, Dana Sterling, who is the daughter of a human and a Zentraedi.
The New Generation: This segment covers episodes 61-85 of Robotech, and is based on Genesis Climber MOSPEADA. It tells the story of how Earth is invaded by a third alien race called the Invid, who are attracted by the Protoculture and wipe out most of humanity. The segment focuses on the adventures of a group of freedom fighters, led by Scott Bernard, who travel across the wasteland to reach the Invid's main base, called Reflex Point, and try to liberate Earth.
The original Robotech RPG storyline by Palladium Books
The original Robotech RPG storyline by Palladium Books follows the TV series storyline in most aspects, but also adds some elements and changes some details. Some of these are:
The Sentinels: This is a spin-off storyline that was planned for the TV series but never produced. It tells the story of how a group of SDF-1 veterans, led by Rick Hunter and Lisa Hayes, join forces with other alien races, called the Sentinels, to fight against a tyrannical empire called the Invid Regent. The storyline was adapted into novels, comics, and RPG books by Palladium Books.
The Robotech War: This is a term used by Palladium Books to refer to the three segments of Robotech as one continuous conflict that spans over several decades. The term is also used to distinguish between different eras and settings within the Robotech universe, such as The Macross Saga Era, The Masters Era, or The New Generation Era.
The Protoculture Matrix: This is a device that was created by an ancient alien race called the Robotech Elders, who were the original masters of Protoculture. The device is capable of producing unlimited amounts of Protoculture, but also attracts the attention of various enemies who want to claim it for themselves. The device is hidden inside the SDF-1, and later inside Reflex Point.
The Shadow Chronicles: This is a sequel storyline that was produced by Harmony Gold in 2006 as an animated film. It tells the story of what happens after the end of The New Generation segment, when a new enemy called the Haydonites attacks Earth and reveals a dark secret about Protoculture. The storyline was also adapted into comics and RPG books by Palladium Books.
The second series based on Robotech: The Shadow Chronicles by Strange Machine Games
The second series based on Robotech: The Shadow Chronicles by Strange Machine Games is a new RPG that was published in 2019 by Strange Machine Games (SMG), with the permission of Harmony Gold. The game was designed by Jeff Mechlinski and Brenden Fletcher, who are fans of Robotech and RPGs. The game is intended to be compatible with the original Robotech RPG by Palladium Books, but also to update and improve some aspects of it.
The game uses a new system called BESM Fourth Edition (BESM 4e), which stands for Big Eyes Small Mouth, a generic anime RPG system created by SMG. The system features a point-based character creation system, a dice pool-based skill system, and a damage system that uses two types of damage: Shock and Wound. Shock damage represents temporary injuries that can be recovered quickly, while Wound damage represents permanent injuries that require medical attention. The system also uses a concept called Scale, which determines how different types of characters and vehicles interact with each other in terms of damage, movement, and perception.
The game covers the same campaign setting as the original Robotech RPG by Palladium Books, but focuses on the events of The Shadow Chronicles segment. The game also adds some new elements and changes some details. Some of these are:
The REF: This is a term used by SMG to refer to the Robotech Expeditionary Force (REF), which is a military organization that was formed by the survivors of the SDF-1 and their allies after the end of The Macross Saga segment. The REF is dedicated to exploring the galaxy, finding new allies, and fighting against the Invid Regent and the Haydonites.
The Cyclone 2: This is a new type of mecha that was developed by the REF after the discovery of the Haydonites' betrayal. The Cyclone 2 is an upgraded version of the Cyclone, which is a motorcycle that can transform into a powered armor suit. The Cyclone 2 has improved weapons, armor, and sensors, and can also use a special device called a Shadow Device, which allows it to cloak itself from enemy detection.
The Neutron-S Missiles: These are new weapons that were created by the Haydonites and given to the REF as a gift. The Neutron-S Missiles are supposed to be powerful anti-Invid weapons that can destroy large targets with minimal collateral damage. However, they are actually a trap, as they contain a hidden device that can trigger a chain reaction that can destroy all Protoculture in the galaxy.
The Regess: This is the name given by SMG to the leader of the Invid, who is also known as the Invid Queen or the Invid Mother. The Regess is a powerful and mysterious being who can control all Invid through a psychic link. She is also able to sense Protoculture and manipulate it for various purposes. She is the main antagonist of The New Generation segment, but later becomes an ally of the REF against the Haydonites.
How is Robotech RPG received by fans and critics?
Robotech RPG has been received by fans and critics with mixed reactions. Some of them praise the game for its faithful adaptation of the Robotech universe, its exciting mecha combat, its rich and detailed campaign setting, and its flexible and customizable system. Others criticize the game for its complex and inconsistent rules, its outdated and unbalanced mechanics, its lack of originality and innovation, and its poor editing and layout.
The pros and cons of Robotech RPG
Some of the pros and cons of Robotech RPG are:
Pros
Cons
- It captures the essence and spirit of Robotech, one of the most iconic and influential mecha anime series.
- It suffers from many errors, typos, contradictions, and ambiguities in its rules and text.
- It offers a wide variety of mecha, characters, factions, scenarios, and adventures for players to choose from.
- It uses an outdated and unbalanced system that favors combat over other aspects of role-playing.
- It allows players to create their own stories and alternatives within the Robotech universe.
- It lacks originality and innovation, as it mostly reuses or adapts existing material from other sources.
- It provides a rich and detailed campaign setting that covers the history, geography, technology, and culture of the Robotech universe.
- It has a poor editing and layout, making it hard to read and use.
The comparison of Robotech RPG to other mech RPGs
Robotech RPG is not the only mech RPG available in the market. There are many other mech RPGs that offer different features, mechanics, settings, and styles. Some of them are:
Battletech: This is one of the oldest and most popular mech RPGs, created by FASA Corporation in 1984. It is set in a futuristic setting where humanity is divided into warring factions that fight for control of planets using giant robots called BattleMechs. The game uses a hex-based map and a turn-based combat system that involves movement, heat, damage, and critical hits. The game also has a complex and detailed setting that covers the history, politics, economics, and culture of the Battletech universe.
Mekton: This is another old and popular mech RPG, created by R. Talsorian Games in 1984. It is inspired by various anime and manga series, such as Gundam, Macross, and Evangelion. It allows players to create and customize their own mecha, called Mektons, using a point-based system that involves various components, weapons, and abilities. The game also has a flexible and modular setting that can accommodate different genres and styles of mecha anime.
Lancer: This is a new and modern mech RPG, created by Massif Press in 2019. It is set in a far-future setting where humanity has colonized the galaxy and faces various threats and challenges using advanced mecha, called Lancers. The game uses a grid-based map and a hybrid combat system that combines narrative and tactical elements. The game also has a rich and diverse setting that explores the themes of war, politics, identity, and transhumanism in the Lancer universe.
The ratings and reviews of Robotech RPG
Robotech RPG has received various ratings and reviews from fans and critics over the years. Some of them are:
Amazon: The original Robotech RPG by Palladium Books has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars on Amazon, based on 18 customer reviews. The second series based on Robotech: The Shadow Chronicles by Strange Machine Games has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars on Amazon, based on 6 customer reviews.
DriveThruRPG: The original Robotech RPG by Palladium Books has an average rating of 4 out of 5 stars on DriveThruRPG, based on 10 customer reviews. The second series based on Robotech: The Shadow Chronicles by Strange Machine Games has an average rating of 5 out of 5 stars on DriveThruRPG, based on 2 customer reviews.
EN World: The original Robotech RPG by Palladium Books has a rating of 3 out of 5 stars on EN World, based on 1 editorial review. The second series based on Robotech: The Shadow Chronicles by Strange Machine Games has a rating of 4 out of 5 stars on EN World, based on 1 editorial review.
RPG.net: The original Robotech RPG by Palladium Books has an average rating of 6.67 out of 10 on RPG.net, based on 3 user reviews. The second series based on Robotech: The Shadow Chronicles by Strange Machine Games has an average rating of 8 out of 10 on RPG.net, based on 1 user review.
What are some alternatives to Robotech RPG?
If you are looking for some alternatives to Robotech RPG, you might want to consider some factors such as the system, the setting, the style, and the availability of the game. Here are some criteria for choosing an alternative mech RPG:
The criteria for choosing an alternative mech RPG
The system: You might want to choose a system that suits your preferences and playstyle. For example, if you like a simple and streamlined system, you might prefer Lancer or Mekton. If you like a complex and detailed system, you might prefer Battletech or Rifts.
The setting: You might want to choose a setting that interests you and matches your expectations. For example, if you like a realistic and gritty setting, you might prefer Battletech or Heavy Gear. If you like a fantastical and colorful setting, you might prefer Mekton or GURPS Mecha.
The style: You might want to choose a style that reflects your taste and mood. For example, if you like a serious and dramatic style, you might prefer Battletech or Lancer. If you like a humorous and whimsical style, you might prefer Mekton or Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles & Other Strangeness.
The availability: You might want to choose a game that is easy to find and buy. For example, if you like a game that is new and popular, you might prefer Lancer or Robotech: The Shadow Chronicles. If you like a game that is old and classic, you might prefer Battletech or Robotech RPG by Palladium Books.
The examples of alternative mech RPGs
Here are some examples of alternative mech RPGs that you can try:
Lancer: This is a new and modern mech RPG, created by Massif Press in 2019. It is set in a far-future setting where humanity has colonized the galaxy and faces various threats and challenges using advanced mecha, called Lancers. The game uses a grid-based map and a hybrid combat system that combines narrative and tactical elements. The game also has a rich and diverse setting that explores the themes of war, politics, identity, and transhumanism in the Lancer universe.
Battletech: This is one of the oldest and most popular mech RPGs, created by FASA Corporation in 1984. It is set in a futuristic setting where humanity is divided into warring factions that fight for control of planets using giant robots called BattleMechs. The game uses a hex-based map and a turn-based combat system that involves movement, heat, damage, and critical hits. The game also has a complex and detailed setting that covers the history, politics, economics, and culture of the Battletech universe.
Mekton: This is another old and popular mech RPG, created by R. Talsorian Games in 1984. It is inspired by various anime and manga series, such as Gundam, Macross, and Evangelion. It allows players to create and customize their own mecha, called Mektons, using a point-based system that involves various components, weapons, and abilities. The game also has a flexible and modular setting that can accommodate different genres and styles of mecha anime.
GURPS Mecha: This is a supplement for the generic RPG system GURPS, created by Steve Jackson Games in 1996. It provides rules and guidelines for creating and playing mecha in any setting or genre, using the GURPS system. The supplement covers various aspects of mecha design, combat, maintenance, customization, and role-playing. The supplement also includes several sample settings and scenarios for mecha gaming.
Rifts: This is a multi-genre RPG, created by Palladium Books in 1990. It is set in a post-apocalyptic setting where Earth has been ravaged by a cataclysmic event called the Rifts, which opened portals to other dimensions and unleashed various creatures and forces. The game allows players to create characters from various races, classes, factions, and backgrounds, using the Megaversal system. The game also features mecha as one of the many types of vehicles and equipment available to players.
Conclusion
Robotech RPG is a role-playing game based on the popular anime series Robotech. It allows players to create characters and pilot mecha in a futuristic setting where Earth is invaded by three successive extraterrestrial forces. The game follows the TV series storyline in many aspects, but also diverges from it in some ways. The game has been received by fans and critics with mixed reactions. Some praise it for its faithful adaptation of the Robotech universe, its exciting mecha combat, its rich and detailed campaign setting, and its flexible and customizable system. Others criticize it for its complex and inconsistent rules, its outdated and unbalanced mechanics, its lack of originality and innovation, and its poor editing and layout. There are also some alternatives to Robotech RPG that offer different features, mechanics, settings, and styles. Some of them are Lancer, Battletech, Mekton, GURPS Mecha, and Rifts. If you are a fan of giant robots, you might want to check out Robotech RPG or one of its alternatives and enjoy the thrill of mecha gaming.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about Robotech RPG and their answers:
What is the difference between Robotech RPG by Palladium Books and Robotech: The Shadow Chronicles by Strange Machine Games?
Robotech RPG by Palladium Books is the original RPG based on Robotech, published in 1986. It uses the Megaversal system and covers the TV series storyline and some spin-offs. Robotech: The Shadow Chronicles by Strange Machine Games is a new RPG based on Robotech, published in 2019. It uses the BESM 4e system and focuses on the events of The Shadow Chronicles segment.
What is the best system for mech RPGs?
There is no definitive answer to this question, as different systems have different advantages and disadvantages, and different players have different preferences and playstyles. Some factors that might influence your choice are the complexity, the balance, the customization, the realism, and the genre of the system. You might want to try out different systems and see which one suits you best.
How can I get a PDF download of Robotech RPG or its alternatives?
You can get a PDF download of Robotech RPG or its alternatives from various online platforms, such as DriveThruRPG, Amazon, or the official websites of the publishers. However, you should be careful about the legality and quality of the PDFs, as some of them might be pirated or corrupted. You should also respect the intellectual property rights of the creators and publishers of the games.
How can I learn more about Robotech RPG or its alternatives?
You can learn more about Robotech RPG or its alternatives from various sources, such as books, comics, videos, podcasts, blogs, forums, or social media. You can also join online or offline communities of fans and players of these games, such as Facebook groups, Discord servers, Reddit subreddits, or local gaming clubs. You can also contact the creators and publishers of these games directly through their websites or email addresses.
How can I improve my skills and enjoyment of Robotech RPG or its alternatives?
You can improve your skills and enjoyment of Robotech RPG or its alternatives by practicing regularly, reading guides and tips, watching tutorials and reviews, listening to feedback and advice, experimenting with different options and strategies, challenging yourself with different scenarios and opponents, collaborating with other players and GMs, and having fun.
44f88ac181
Comments