Taking the first 74 pages for a spin

[Poppyseed45]

@Storapan

When it comes to NPCs, you’ll find you don’t have to prepare much at all. Have a quick look at the section called “Burning Rogues” beginning at page 562 of the BWG rulebook (I know this sounds contrary to just using the first 74 pages, but in this case I think it’s a good idea). You’ll find some great guidelines for creating NPCs on the fly.

The key is that you very rarely need all stats for an NPC; if they are combat opponents, you probably only need their relevant weapon skill and perhaps one more stat or skill at worst. With a quick decision about who they are and how skilled they are, you’re done. You can always give an NPC a “full burn” and create them like a player character, but I’ve been playing a year and I’ve only done this twice so far…

+1

I’ve almost never statted an NPC; it just isn’t necessary. Basically, since the number range is so tight, it’s easy to figure out how competent a guy should be. When in doubt, you can always eyeball the lifepaths for an appropriate number of skill points.

I will say, however, that main adversaries SHOULD be statted (like, the evil NPC overlord your characters are struggling against, etc). That’s always been useful for me, to understand these guys and gals better.

[stormsweeper (Anthony)]

Guys, you’re getting way off on your tangent here. You can discuss NPC preferences in another thread.

To the OP: Yes, just use the basic mechanics. The skills all have example obstacles. If two characters are in conflict, use a vs test.