Over the last few years, there have been periodic discussion on boards and blogs about using Holmes Basic as a...

Over the last few years, there have been periodic discussion on boards and blogs about using Holmes Basic as a complete RPG on its own - not with expansions to raise the level cap, but complete in itself as a gritty swords & sorcery system with a 3 level advancement cap.

Systemwise, you have a Traveller-esque approach where level advancement doesn't define the campaign. High HD monsters will always be epically dangerous (that 4 HD ogre won't get any easier to kill once you hit 3rd lvl), and low level (3rd level) PCs can found domains. The ongoing campaign will revolve around story goals (in the wider campaign world), exploration, acquisition of magic items, and the defeat of foes.

That said, a while back I ran across an interesting thread on Dragonsfoot (http://www.dragonsfoot.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=42&t=33759) in which a poster described a campaign world where there were no deities in the classic sense. There were "gods", but all of them were powerful creatures that demanded worship and tribute from fearful low level types. In this sense, the "gods" were like the old Roman concept of genii locii ("local gods") worshipped by villages and tribes - gods of rocks and streams, hills and lakes. So.. a dragon might rule a city of goblins as their god, etc. The trope features in several classic D&D modules, most notable the naga cult in N1 and worship of the monstrous Zargon in B4.

From a published resource standpoint, those not wanting to go with worship of powerful monsters per se could go with some of the minor powers from the old JG "Unknown Gods" supplement: https://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/ODDguild/conversations/messages/4147

For those not familiar with how such minor "gods" and their cults might play out, Lord Dunsany's short story "Chu-Bu and Sheemish" offers a good - and humorous - look at the idea: http://www.sff.net/people/doylemacdonald/d_chu-bu.htm

Anyone done this or played with the idea?

If you also hang out on Facebook from time to time, please head over to the Holmes Basic Dungeons & Dragons page and...

If you also hang out on Facebook from time to time, please head over to the Holmes Basic Dungeons & Dragons page and give it a like. :-)
https://www.facebook.com/holmesbasic

Thought upon reading the first post in this thread, in which the poster mentioned B/X (correctly, IMO) being better...

Thought upon reading the first post in this thread, in which the poster mentioned B/X (correctly, IMO) being better organized than Holmes.. Has anyone taken the text of Holmes and reordered the content to match Moldvay Basic's organization? Would be interesting to compare the results. http://forum.rpg.net/showthread.php?685059-Tell-me-about-Holmes-Basic-D-amp-D

Thoughts on classes, inspired by Zach H.

Thoughts on classes, inspired by Zach H. Happy Holidays! http://nilisnotnull.blogspot.com/2014/12/mixing-and-matching-classes.html

I've updated the Holmes for the Holidays post with the results.

Originally shared by Zach H

I've updated the Holmes for the Holidays post with the results. The winner this year is Kean Stuart. Thanks to all who participated.
http://zenopusarchives.blogspot.com/2014/12/holmes-for-holidays-iv.html

Hi and thanks!

Review of the Metamorphosis Alpha Deluxe Reprint by GeekDad, with lots of pictures.

Review of the Metamorphosis Alpha Deluxe Reprint by GeekDad, with lots of pictures. (I've got my copy but it's boxed up under the tree until Xmas).
http://geekdad.com/2014/12/metamorphosis-alpha-is-back

It's that time of the year when I give away a book.

It's that time of the year when I give away a book. If you don't have a copy of The Maze of Peril and are interested in entering, leave a comment on the blog post linked below. One commenter will be randomly selected to receive a copy. (Comments are disabled here).
http://zenopusarchives.blogspot.com/2014/12/holmes-for-holidays-iv.html

Rankin-Bass is My Dungeon Master

Excellent post alert. And seasonal!
http://matt-landofnod.blogspot.com/2014/12/rankin-bass-is-my-dungeon-master.html

Weird Helmet Warrior

Weird Helmet Warrior

California Gaming Part II - LSD&D with Erol Otus #RPGaDAY Not much reference to Holmes here, but Otus was an...

California Gaming Part II - LSD&D with Erol Otus #RPGaDAY Not much reference to Holmes here, but Otus was an illustrator on some printings of B2: Keep on the Borderlands, included with many Holmes Basic boxed sets.

I think I know what this means, but can some of you tell me yourinterpretation?

Earl Tea Grey wrote:

I think I know what this means, but can some of you tell me your interpretation?
I believe it's referring to the three columns of the wandering monster chart below it. (Page 10)

Billy Galaxy is now auctioning one of the original copies of the Holmes Manuscript.

Billy Galaxy is now auctioning one of the original copies of the Holmes Manuscript. This is what I've been reviewing; Billy was kind enough to send me scans of it last year. (I have no stake in this auction).

Originally shared by Scott Mob

Holmes Basic manuscript for sale on ebay
http://www.ebay.com/itm/351254092959

Idle thought on adding subclasses to whitebox OD&D or Holmes, but without adding any new rules.

Idle thought on adding subclasses to whitebox OD&D or Holmes, but without adding any new rules.
Paladin = Fighter/Cleric
Ranger = Fighter/Thief
Monk = Cleric/Thief
Druid = Cleric/MU
Bard = Thief/MU
Subclasses are for humans only (Fighter/MU is still just elves).
Use whatever multi-class rules you use for elves.

The Collector's Trove is running another series of auctions, some items from former TSR employees (Darlene, Ernie...

The Collector's Trove is running another series of auctions, some items from former TSR employees (Darlene, Ernie Gygax, the Roslofs and many others). Lots of TSR ephemera of the era. A Holmes Basic promo poster is up to $300! (This item seems to be from from the Trove's private collection rather than one of the TSR employees)
http://www.ebay.com/itm/TSR-Dungeons-Dragons-Basic-Set-Poster-1978-/311207425241?pt=Games_US&hash=item48756874d9

The next installment.

The next installment.
http://zenopusarchives.blogspot.com/2014/12/part-43-zap-youre-dead.html

Part I of my multi-part blog post series about the development of "California Gaming" in the mid-70s (since Dr.

Part I of my multi-part blog post series about the development of "California Gaming" in the mid-70s (since Dr. Holmes is the Patron Saint of California Gamers, I'll get to him soon). This post explores the SCA, RuneQuest, DunDraCon and The Arduin Grimoire, all created in the San Francisco Bay area.

Recent short interview with Lawrence Schick about his module White Plume Mountain and working at TSR.

Recent short interview with Lawrence Schick about his module White Plume Mountain and working at TSR.
http://nerdragenews.com/reminiscing-about-white-plume-mountain/

Not specific to Holmes Basic but perhaps of interest to those here:

Not specific to Holmes Basic but perhaps of interest to those here:
http://crierofkemen.blogspot.com/2014/12/and-now-for-something-completely.html

I will not be hijacking this forum, so in the future any who are interested in what I am up to should probably stop by the blog. I will continue to post Holmes Basic related items here.

Dungeon portrait, Mr. Manticore. #DungeonPortrait

Dungeon portrait, Mr. Manticore. #DungeonPortrait

First of all, my apologies for the bad camera work and the dirty thumb.

First of all, my apologies for the bad camera work and the dirty thumb. I was just testing using my phone to make this video sample of my crosshatching work in progress during a g+ conversation with +Ryan Good about my mapping techniques.

This is a short video sample of me doing some crosshatching with a Sakura Micron 01 pen on 5-square-per-inch graph paper, filmed using my off-hand holding my iPhone as I worked. Maybe I'll get a device for holding my phone steady one of these days and make a time-lapse video of an entire map from start to finish.

(Let's also see if/how GooglePlus handles this video...)

Maze of Peril on Most Popular List at Noble Knight

Thanks to everyone here and at the Holmes Forum on OD&D Discussion who bought a copy of The Maze of Peril - you helped it onto the "Most Popular" list on Noble Knight. Earlier today it was at position #2. (FYI, I have no financial interest in this book or NK). At least 20 copies have been sold since I first posted about the sale. Not bad for a book published in 1986!

Noble Knight has the new Metamorphosis Alpha Deluxe hardcover from Goodman Games in stock for $58.46.

Noble Knight has the new Metamorphosis Alpha Deluxe hardcover from Goodman Games in stock for $58.46. Only 1 left though! Down from 6 earlier today; I bought one of those, convinced after seeing Wayne Rossi's photos the other day.
http://www.nobleknight.com/ProductDetail.asp_Q_ProductID_E_2147565121_A_InventoryID_E_2148171938_A_ProductLineID_E_2137430311_A_ManufacturerID_E_2145082521_A_CategoryID_E_16_A_GenreID_E_

Back Cover of Holmes' FRPG book

Dr. Holmes contemplates as a tiny creatures battle on his desk. From the back cover of Hippocrene's USA printing of Holmes' Role Playing Games. I'll see if I can remove the library sticker without destroying the dust jacket.

That was fast: The Maze of Peril was sold out at NK, but a few days later it is back in stock, showing 40 copies...

That was fast: The Maze of Peril was sold out at NK, but a few days later it is back in stock, showing 40 copies currently. Still at the Fall Sale price of $8.96 plus shipping.
http://www.nobleknight.com/productdetailsearch.asp_Q_ProductID_E_2147463148_A_InventoryID_E_2148171395

Nice overview of OGRE, another class-of-'77 game, by John ONeill on Black Gate.

Nice overview of OGRE, another class-of-'77 game, by John ONeill on Black Gate.
http://www.blackgate.com/2014/12/02/the-classic-games-of-metagaming-ogre

Robotic Knight-Wizard

Robotic Knight-Wizard with extra-dimensional familiar along for the ride.

Crowd source question: Does your copy of Holmes' 1981 book, FantasyRole-Playing Games, have this photo on the back...

Crowd source question: Does your copy of Holmes' 1981 book, Fantasy Role-Playing Games, have this photo on the back of the dust jacket? If so, is it the US printing by Hippocrene Books? This may be a previously unrecognized difference in the  the UK and US versions. I have the UK printing by Arms & Armour Press, which shows the Basic Set cover art on  the back of the dust jacket. (It has a smaller version of this photo inside the back of the dust jacket, but the minis in the foreground are cropped out - so I never knew they were there.). This photo is from a recently ended Ebay auction for the Hippocrene printing, hence my guess at the difference being based on the publisher.

Paleologos on his Holmes campaign series. See link for discussion.

Paleologos on his Holmes campaign series. See link for discussion.
"Levels 1-3:
Holmes Sample Dungeon
B1, B2

Levels 3-5:
Creature of Rhyl, Chapel of Silence

Levels 5-7:
Skull Mountain #skullmountain

Levels 8-14:
GDQ series"
http://odd74.proboards.com/post/153433

If you are interested in the history of D&D, see my blog series going through J.

If you are interested in the history of D&D, see my blog series going through J. Eric Holmes' manuscript for the first D&D Basic Set rulebook, and comparing it to the published version, the original OD&D text from which it was drawn and later rules influenced by it, particularly the Moldvay Basic rulebook of B/X. The series is up to 42 parts, indexed at the link below. I'm currently in the section on DM guidance.
http://zenopusarchives.blogspot.com/2013/11/at-long-last.html

A new shorter version of The History of the Hobbit by John Rateliff, former TSR employee, is forthcoming.

A new shorter version of The History of the Hobbit by John Rateliff, former TSR employee, is forthcoming. This version cuts down on his commentary but still has the entire manuscript and the later 1960 unpublished rewrite of the early chapters. I have the original version of this book and it is one of my inspirations (along with Christopher Tolkien's work) for going through the Holmes Manuscript.

ZENOPUS ARCHIVES: The Maze of Peril on sale at NK

http://zenopusarchives.blogspot.com/2014/11/the-maze-of-peril-on-sale-at-nk.html

Mentzer Expert on Previous Editions

"So many changes have occurred since 1973 that the task of explaining all of them would require a booklet of this size" - Frank Mentzer in 1983 on the changes between D&D editions, from the Expert Set rulebook.

Originally shared by parrish warren

So has someone made the booklet? I have Moldvay and Mentzer but laziness asks...is there a breakdown of these two editions out there? I bet there is.

Underworld cross-section by Noah Stevens, generated using How to Host a Dungeon (see link in post). #cross-section

I love the style of these B&W pieces by Stefan Poag

I love the style of these B&W pieces by Stefan Poag 

Originally shared by Stefan Poag

Pedro Gil of La Marca Del Este send me preview pdfs of the adventure I illustrated which has just been sent to the printers. The final title is, “La Cripta nefanda de Uztum el Maldito,” which I think translates to, “The Nefarious Crypt of Utzum the Mad”…
http://stefanpoag.wordpress.com/2014/11/22/utzum-the-mad-update-plus-works-in-bw

Noble Knight is having their Fall sale again.

Noble Knight is having their Fall sale again. The original 1986 printing of The Maze of Peril by Dr Holmes on sale for $8.96 plus shipping. 17 copies in stock at present.  If you don't know anything about this book, here's a review by Delta's D&D Hotspot:
http://deltasdnd.blogspot.com/2011/11/review-maze-of-peril.html
http://www.nobleknight.com/ProductDetail.asp_Q_ProductID_E_2147463148_A_InventoryID_E_2148146675_A_ProductLineID_E_2137426514_A_ManufacturerID_E_2145086152_A_CategoryID_E_16_A_GenreID_E_

Troglodyte.

Troglodyte.

The Cave of the Unknown by Eric Hoffman, member here.

The Cave of the Unknown by Eric Hoffman, member here.

Originally shared by Eric Hoffman

My version of The Cave of the Unknown from B2, using Dyson Logos recent mushroom filled cave map!

http://rpgcharacters.wordpress.com/2014/11/12/the-cave-of-mushrooms-the-dyson-mega-delve/

Don't read if you are playing in the game!  Or do, it won't help you anyway, Mwahahahah, etc.

Dyson Logos

Part 42. Another map by Holmes, cut from the manuscript, this time showing part of a first level dungeon.

Part 42. Another map by Holmes, cut from the manuscript, this time showing part of a first level dungeon.
http://zenopusarchives.blogspot.com/2014/11/part-42-sample-floor-plan-part-of-first.html

Choose Your Own Adventure #6, The Green Slime

Choose Your Own Adventure #6, The Green Slime, 1982, from the "junior" series that had a separate numbering system. I found this recently at a used bookstore and read it all, inc every ending, to my son in about 30 min last night. No connection to the Green Slime of D&D other than appearance. It actually moves like a Ooze or Pudding. Some interesting ideas that could be used in D&D, like food preferences and animals that eat the slime. In one ending they lure the slime out of their house with items made of rubber. What if black puddings would rather eat your oil than you?

This post is an example of how we can look at the details of a place like Portown and craft adventures from them.

This post is an example of how we can look at the details of a place like Portown and craft adventures from them. You might not feel you need help in this, but it will hopefully serve as inspiration.

Part 41, starting in on the OD&D Vol 3 material.

Part 41, starting in on the OD&D Vol 3 material. The big find here is an unused cross-section by Holmes, different from Skull Mountain, a nice addition to the few maps of his that we have.  #skullmountain #cross-section
http://zenopusarchives.blogspot.com/2014/11/part-41-dungeon-mastering-as-fine-art.html

The original publisher and prolific author of Choose Your Own Adventure Books, R.

The original publisher and prolific author of Choose Your Own Adventure Books, R. A. Montgomery, has passed away. Here's a detailed bio from the current publisher. (Edward Packard, who came up with the original idea and also wrote many of the books, is still alive).
http://www.cyoa.com/pages/r-a-montgomery-1936-2014

The latest Lego minifig series (Series 12, Oct 14) has a wizard in blue robes with stars & moons, like Sutherland's...

The latest Lego minifig series (Series 12, Oct 14) has a wizard in blue robes with stars & moons, like Sutherland's wizard on the cover of the basic set. The figures are sold blind but this one can be identified by feel since the 'legs' are a wedge. I found one pretty quickly.
http://lego.wikia.com/wiki/Wizard_%28Minifigures%29

A look at Skull Mountain by Tom Wham.

A look at Skull Mountain by Tom Wham.
#skullmountain #cross-section
http://zenopusarchives.blogspot.com/2014/11/skull-mountain-by-tom-wham.html

Part 40, covering Miscellaneous Magic Items.

Part 40, covering Miscellaneous Magic Items. Three powerful items were replaced in the published rulebook. That's it for the Magic Items, next up is "Dungeon Mastering as a Fine Art".
http://zenopusarchives.blogspot.com/2014/11/part-40-acts-like-cannon-blast-on-walls.html

I'm new here, but I wanted to share that I have a 3D model of Portown based on R.C.

I'm new here, but I wanted to share that I have a 3D model of Portown based on R.C. Pinnell's map, which was itself based on Paleologos work. I made the model in Sketchup, and you'll need to install that program (it's FREE) in order to get the file. You'll also need Google, Drive, for those who do not. There are other models there, too, including the Green Dragon Inn.

http://crierofkemen.blogspot.com/2014/09/portown-in-3d.html

For Halloween, a new type of monster for Holmes Basic...

For Halloween, a new type of monster for Holmes Basic...
http://zenopusarchives.blogspot.com/2014/10/fearsome-monsters.html

A filmstrip you may remember seeing in elementary school around Halloween.

A filmstrip you may remember seeing in elementary school around Halloween.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gJWjGO-fTbg

DD Attack Matrix converted to Ascending AC

For Claytonian JP. Delving Deeper Attack Matrix converted to Ascending AC.

I blog about what I consider The Best Edition, I think you will agree.

I blog about what I consider The Best Edition, I think you will agree.
http://randomwizard.blogspot.com/2014/10/the-best-edition.html

2 Warps to Neptune on the Lovecraft article by Holmes/Kuntz in Dragon #12.

2 Warps to Neptune on the Lovecraft article by Holmes/Kuntz in Dragon #12. Holmes wrote most of this article, which I wrote about a few years ago: http://zenopusarchives.blogspot.com/2011/11/dr-holmes-and-cthulhu-mythos-part-ii.html
http://2warpstoneptune.wordpress.com/2014/10/21/the-lovecraftian-mythos-in-dungeons-dragons-from-the-dragon-12-february-1978

Part 39, covering Wands and Staves.

Part 39, covering Wands and Staves. Holmes originally had a slightly scaled back Staff of Power in the Basic list. Good for taking on those high HD monsters in his Monster List.
http://zenopusarchives.blogspot.com/2014/10/part-39-wand-produces-fire-ball-which.html

Fangorn's reinterpration of Sutherland's piece for the title page of Holmes Basic.

Fangorn's reinterpration of Sutherland's piece for the title page of Holmes Basic. From the UK version of the Basic rulebook.

Originally shared by Claytonian JP

UK Basic set artwork 
http://www.dragonsfoot.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=15&t=20401&start=28

Bill Owen of Judges Guild has just released a $5 Kindle version of hisbook about JG in the 1970s.

Bill Owen of Judges Guild has just released a $5 Kindle version of his book about JG in the 1970s. Even if like me you don't have a Kindle, you can read it directly on Amazon via their cloud reader.
http://www.amazon.com/Judges-Guilds-Bob-Bill-Cautionary-ebook/dp/B00OFJY7Z6

Couple of useful idea seeds in the short article "Warriors for Hire" by J.

Couple of useful idea seeds in the short article "Warriors for Hire" by J. Eric Holmes in Alarums & Excursions #11 - the "Expeditions Unlimited" mercenary agency for hiring men at arms (perfect to locate in Portown), and "Greyhead Tower", the name for a nearby dungeon: 
http://jasonzavoda-hallofthemountainking.blogspot.de/2012/04/j-eric-holmes-warriors-for-hire-from.html

The Great Stone Skull (aka Skull Mountain) was featured on the Old School FRP tumblr today.

The Great Stone Skull (aka Skull Mountain) was featured on the Old School FRP tumblr today. Artwork by Tom Wham.  #skullmountain
http://oldschoolfrp.tumblr.com/post/99591213726/oldschoolfrp-stone-mountain-and-the-great-stone

Here's a post by Sarah Darkmagic about the D&D article in Dynamite magazine in 1980.

Here's a post by Sarah Darkmagic about the D&D article in Dynamite magazine in 1980. The girl on the left is holding a Holmes rulebook, and there's a Holmes poster on the wall behind the girl on the right. I have a copy of the pdf that someone on ODD74 shared a while back. I'll post a link to it below for anyone else who would like to read it.
http://www.sarahdarkmagic.com/content/how-picture-girls-playing-dd-went-cool-awesome

Good analysis by Wayne Rossi: "This means that some monsters encountered in the Holmes edition of the game will be...

Good analysis by Wayne Rossi: "This means that some monsters encountered in the Holmes edition of the game will be "friendly" and involve some negotiation. If the referee chooses to ignore that, it's not the D&D game's fault; it told the players to roleplay, right there in the text."

[Actual Play] First OD&D/Holmes Campaign in 35 years

Originally shared by Doug Anderson

[Actual Play] First OD&D/Holmes Campaign in 35 years
"My big brothers told me you used to run a D&D club after school. They won't let me play with them. Can you bring back the club for me and my friends?" I told her that if she could find three friends who could consistently show up after school on Thursdays,...

Part 38, covering Rings. One change in Holmes' original list.

Part 38, covering Rings. One change in Holmes' original list.
http://zenopusarchives.blogspot.com/2014/10/part-38-rings-can-be-used-by-anyone.html

Pushing the boat out...

These arrived in the mail yesterday: five ACE doubles with 6 of the first 7 Dumarest novels by E.C.

These arrived in the mail yesterday: five ACE doubles with 6 of the first 7 Dumarest novels by E.C. Tubb, one of the sources for Traveller (1977). I've been meaning to read them & then saw this lot in the Holmes auctions for a good price. In Holmes' FRPG book, one of the two examples of play is Traveller, and he mentions Tubb.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/EC-TUBB-Ace-Double-Book-lot-of-5-scifi-novels-Derai-Technos-Kalin-Jester-at-Scar-/380991116837?nma=true&si=GX6XD1nXlGqfqBK2Q0wqyN8zXLg%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc&_trksid=p2047675.l2557

Here's a great one-sheet by Austinjimm to use for an OD&D Small Merchant ship (5000 gp).

Here's a great one-sheet by Austinjimm to use for an OD&D Small Merchant ship (5000 gp).
http://knights-n-knaves.com/phpbb3/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=12579&p=189662#p189647

Neat topic - Stealth monsters with stats in the 1E DMG.

Neat topic - Stealth monsters with stats in the 1E DMG.
http://knights-n-knaves.com/phpbb3/viewtopic.php?f=8&t=8465

Greyhawk Grognard just got some pig faced orc miniatures cast from the old Minifigs molds from back in the day.

Greyhawk Grognard just got some pig faced orc miniatures cast from the old Minifigs molds from back in the day. You may recognize them as the same figures featured on page 167 of Dr. Holmes' book "Fantasy Role Playing Games." In the book, they are set up in an Atlantic Hobby "Pharaoh's Palace" model, probably from Dr. Holmes' own collection.
http://greyhawkgrognard.blogspot.com/2014/09/pig-faced-orcs.html

Holmes Basic in the field, 1986. Read more on 2 Warps to Neptune, via the link.

Holmes Basic in the field, 1986. Read more on 2 Warps to Neptune, via the link.
http://2warpstoneptune.wordpress.com/2014/09/02/a-portrait-of-young-geeks-playing-dd-1986

Delving Deeper, the OD&D clone, is now available in a single volume version for $4.78 via Lulu.

Delving Deeper, the OD&D clone, is now available in a single volume version for $4.78 via Lulu. See pictures by Simon Bull in the post linked below. Full disclosure: I helped proofread the original text (Brave Halfling printing) as a volunteer. The 'Reference Rules' have been revised & proofed by others. There is also an excellent hypertext version available for perusal: http://ddo.immersiveink.com/dd.html
http://odd74.proboards.com/post/148930

A report on Gen Con IX (1976) by Ian Livingstone of Games Workshop, from the Owl & Weasel #18, the predecessor of...

A report on Gen Con IX (1976) by Ian Livingstone of Games Workshop, from the Owl & Weasel #18, the predecessor of White Dwarf magazine.

http://zenopusarchives.blogspot.com/2014/09/gen-con-xi-report-by-ian-livingstone.html

Scrolls!

Scrolls!
http://zenopusarchives.blogspot.com/2014/09/part-37-any-ring-spell-except-wishes.html

I recognized the Cyclops figure in the article I just posted.

I recognized the Cyclops figure in the article I just posted. It must have been designed based on Fangorn's artwork in the UK version of the Holmes Basic rulebook. Take a look at this comparison:

A scan of a May 1979 article about Games Workshop in Military Modeling magazine.

A scan of a May 1979 article about Games Workshop in Military Modeling magazine. It doesn't specifically mention the Basic Set, although it does say that they are publishing TSR products themselves now (the first of these was the Basic Set in Dec 1977). A separate GW ad from the same issue does show the Basic Set, and at a cost of 7.50 pounds, or 2.95 for the rulebook alone.

A new blog with a 3D rendering of Portown.

A new blog with a 3D rendering of Portown. This is based on the version by RC Pinnell (Thorkhammer), which in turn is based on the version by Paleologos on DF (see the "Portown by Palelogos" link above). The blog author also has a DF thread with more details:
http://www.dragonsfoot.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=31&t=67449

Portown in 3D

Edited] In the 1970's, a man name J. Eric Holmes wrote the Basic version of Dungeons and Dragons. This was the now familiar "blue book" of rules that so many of us began with. His "Portown" sample dungeon became an iconic encounter that inspired many.

As threatened, here's my follow-up post on Hobbit Rangers, looking at Tolkien's Wild Hobbits.

As threatened, here's my follow-up post on Hobbit Rangers, looking at Tolkien's Wild Hobbits.
http://zenopusarchives.blogspot.com/2014/08/tolkiens-wild-hobbits.html

Courtesy of Jon Peterson, download a pdf of the 1974 (!) D&D variant, "Rules to the Game of Dungeon" by Craig...

Courtesy of Jon Peterson, download a pdf of the 1974 (!) D&D variant, "Rules to the Game of Dungeon" by Craig VanGrasstek.

Edit: Forgot the link -
http://playingattheworld.blogspot.com/2014/08/1974-dungeon-variant-now-for-download.html

My favorite game fiction - The Maze of Peril by Dr. John Eric Holmes

My favorite game fiction - The Maze of Peril by Dr. John Eric Holmes

Read my take on Boinger and Zereth, Holmes' home campaign and why paying the rent is better than saving the world. Also, I nitpick Ian Livingstone and discuss two of the earliest published game fiction novels.

Was on the archives and ran across this great post on the halfling.

Was on the archives and ran across this great post on the halfling. Never thought of the halfling as a short ranger, but the characterization is spot on - a light fighter, stealthy outdoors (good scout when combined with infravision, depending on edition), good with missile weapons. Not many folks played halfling as other than thieves back in the day since they were weak fighters, but I'll have to give this some further thought..
http://zenopusarchives.blogspot.com/2014/06/hobbits-as-rangers-of-basic.html
http://zenopusarchives.blogspot.com/2014/06/hobbits-as-rangers-of-basic.html

The next installment, covering Potions.

The next installment, covering Potions. No changes to Holmes' selections here, and just one major change to a potion's effect.
http://zenopusarchives.blogspot.com/2014/08/part-36-they-may-dare-tiny-sip.html

A detailed look at the fonts & layout of several eras of TSR products.

A detailed look at the fonts & layout of several eras of TSR products.

Originally shared by Kevin Crawford

For those with an interest in classic TSR typography and book design, I've finished the first draft of a small study of the topic. I touch on OD&D, 1e AD&D, B/X, and BECMI core book and module styles and give examples of the major table styles and page designs.

Fellow publishers can grab the InDesign source document or other useful files in my publisher resources folder at https://drive.google.com/folderview?id=0B4qCWY8UnLrcVVVNWG5qUTUySjg&usp=sharing

There's an .indd file for those with Adobe Creative Cloud and an .indl file for those with earlier versions of the software. Others are welcome to use the table, paragraph, and object styles for their own projects, whether free or commercial.

Thief skills.

Thief skills. Ever since back in the day, I was not a fan of how they were implemented. The selection was good, but the % mechanic didn't seem to hang together with the rest of the mechanics, the starting percentages seemed arbitrary, and all thieves advanced at the same rate. AD&D 2e introduced thieves being able to allot their % gains from leveling as they wished, which helped, but it still kind of annoyed me (despite my being otherwise a fan of % systems, like Star Frontiers).
In recent years I've become a big fan of D&D's 2d6 mechanic for morale and reaction rolls and I think it could be applied to thief skills as a better replacement for the default percentile mechanic. Thoughts?
----------------------
- Selection of thief skills stay the same.
- All thief skills start at +0 to the 2d6 roll.
- At 1st level, the thief gets 2 points to add to skills (either add +2 to a single skill, or +1 to two skills).
- Each additional level, the thief gets 2 more points to add to their thief skills.
- Skill checks are made against the difficulty of the task (roll equal to or higher than the difficulty level assigned):
2 / impossible to fail (no roll required)
3-5 / Easy
6-8 / Average
9-11 / Hard
12+ / Very hard
- Example: Mungo the 1st level thief finds a chest with the lock broken off. Since the lock is broken off, it effective level is 2 - Mungo can simply open it.
- Example: Later in his career, Mungo the 3rd level thief has Pick Pockets at +4. He attempts to pick the pocket of a high level elf in the market (difficulty 10). He rolls a 7 for a total of 11 and cuts the elf's purse from the target's belt when someone else bumps into the elf. Getting greedy, a few rounds later Mungo tries again - removing a scroll tube protruding from the elf's robes - but rolls a 3 for a total of 7. Mungo is detected, and after a scuffle is captured and imprisoned by the city guard.
- Released sometime later, Mungo reaches 5th level and has his skills tested when he tries to join a guild in a new city. They assign him the task of picking the pocket of a senior thief of the guild at a random time. Mungo has put more points into picking pockets and now has a +7. The task is near impossible as the target is one of the guild's best (difficulty 14); Mungo rolls an 8, for a total of 15 - success! The guild admits him, world spreading quickly of Mungo's legendary pickpocket skills.
----------------------
Why I like the idea.. it gets rid of the seemingly arbitrary starting skill percentages and identical advancement rates of the classic system; it expands use of the 2d6 mechanic used elsewhere; it gives even low level thieves the chance to make an epic score by rolling a pair of 6's; and it puts the power in the DMs hands to assign difficulty levels to checks rather than a flat percentile rating.
Feedback welcome!

I always enjoy these kinds of posts on introducing D&D to kids, as I've gone through the same myself.

I always enjoy these kinds of posts on introducing D&D to kids, as I've gone through the same myself.

Originally shared by Erik Westmarch

As part of my project to create an Ultra-Basic D&D for my son (age 4), I have spent some time thinking about what the most important rules of D&D really art. It's not stats, class, race. That's optional.
http://redboxofwestmarch.blogspot.com/2014/08/the-most-important-rules.html?m=1

Sample Dungeon Map by Michael Thomas

Michael Thomas wrote:

Andy C was asking about maps of the Holmes sample dungeon - I thought I remembered creating one, and I was right. However, as usual I seem to have tweaked the layout quite a bit to make it fit better on an A4 page ...

Anyway, here it is for anyone who's interested.

My first RPG purchased - the Holmes Basic D&D rules.

My first RPG purchased - the Holmes Basic D&D rules... for cheap! Plus, an obligatory shout out to the Zenopus Archives. #RPGaDAY

Question for the hive mind..

Question for the hive mind..
Has anyone done (or know of) a full-page version of the classic Zenopus Dungeon map from Holmes Basic? If yes, can you post a link to it?

Hey -- I did an OSR/LL Thing.

Originally shared by Paul Wolfe

Hey -- I did an OSR/LL Thing. It's pay what you want over at RPGNow and DriveThru RPG. More info on the blog post... Feedback is always welcome. 

And I swear Daniel Bishop and I didn't plan this.

20 Backgrounds for OD&D or Holmes Basic characters, drawn from the source material. #holmesref

20 Backgrounds for OD&D or Holmes Basic characters, drawn from the source material. #holmesref
http://zenopusarchives.blogspot.com/2014/08/20-backgrounds-for-od.html

Fight On #15 will be dedicated to J.

Fight On #15 will be dedicated to J. Eric Holmes. The editor is looking for more submissions, in particular: "1. An article with new races, or some critical race theory" and "2. MONSTERS!" and "in general other than the monsters and races subs I mentioned above what we're looking for this issue is Holmes stuff".
http://odd74.proboards.com/thread/10237/soliciting-articles-fight-on-15

Found this via the D&D Documentary facebook page.

Found this via the D&D Documentary facebook page. Otus black & white illo depicting the Keep on the Borderlands. It’s very similar in overall layout to the final back cover of B2, but with a village outside and a sea or lake behind the keep.  Frank Mentzer pulled this unused art out of a file and used it in RPGA News #1 (soon renamed Polyhedron), summer 1981.
http://www.dragonsfoot.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=15&t=59966&sid=62190603d083fb1eafc14dbdc29ee7f3
Dragonsfoot thread the goes into speculation that it could be the precursor to B2 Keep and/or B3 Palace.
http://oldschoolfrp.tumblr.com/post/93311693103/otusshrine-otus-black-white-illo-depicting

B1 review at Dungeon of Signs

Gus writes: "The cover I remember promised Fungal Caverns"

Long, thoughtful review of B1 on the Dungeon of Signs.

In Search of the Unknown - B1 Review

How does one review an adventure that is designed to be different each time it's played?B1 - In Search of the Unknown, written in 1979 by Mike Carr for inclusion in the D&D basic set, is exactly such a module, with partially keyed areas on a large dungeon map meant

Great photo by Brett Elliott

Where I add up the cost of Malchor's equipment.

Where I add up the cost of Malchor's equipment.
http://zenopusarchives.blogspot.com/2014/08/malchors-starting-gold.html

#firstrpg #rpgaday As you may have known, my first RPG was Holmes Basic.

#firstrpg #rpgaday As you may have known, my first RPG was Holmes Basic. What's surprising is that this was in 1982, well after the next Basic Set (Moldvay) had been released in early '81. My neighbors who I first played with had the same set, with B2 and chits (ad for this version below, scan by Allan Grohe). So its influence lasted longer than just the publishing dates would suggest. As late as 1986 you could still buy the Holmes set from the TSR mail order hobby catalog.

A discussion of 'Expert' modules to use with Holmes, started by Paleologos, a long-time Holmes fan on DF and ODD74...

A discussion of 'Expert' modules to use with Holmes, started by Paleologos, a long-time Holmes fan on DF and ODD74 who isn't here on G+. His map of Portown is linked under "About This Community".
http://odd74.proboards.com/thread/10216/holmes

Part 35, covering magic weapons & armor. Holmes included the Vorpal Sword!

Part 35, covering magic weapons & armor. Holmes included the Vorpal Sword!
http://zenopusarchives.blogspot.com/2014/07/part-35-potent-weapon-in-hands-of-dwarf.html

A bunch of vintage horror/fantasy paperbacks, including DAW, in the Holmes auctions right now.

A bunch of vintage horror/fantasy paperbacks, including DAW, in the Holmes auctions right now. 460 auctions currently running by Billy Galaxy. I need to be recording more of what he owned but there is so much it is daunting & hard to keep up with.

Link to Holmes auctions, sorted by 'Newly Listed'.
http://www.ebay.com/dsc/m.html?item=351131870989&pt=US_Fiction_Books&_from=R40&hash=item51c117270d&_ssn=www.billygalaxy.com&_sacat=0&LH_TitleDesc=1&_nkw=%22j.+eric+holmes%22&_sop=10
http://www.ebay.com/itm/YEARS-BEST-HORROR-STORIES-II-2-Christopher-Lee-Robert-Bloch-1970s-DAW-books-/351131870989?pt=US_Fiction_Books&hash=item51c117270d

New long article by Jon Peterson.

New long article by Jon Peterson. The Basic Set is mentioned a few times, including "Gross sales of around $300,000 in 1976 doubled the following year, thanks in no small part to the release of the revised “Basic Set” of Dungeons & Dragons edited by Eric Holmes."
https://medium.com/@increment/the-ambush-at-sheridan-springs-3a29d07f6836

Discussion of Holmes clones started by Michael Pfaff

Discussion of Holmes clones started by Michael Pfaff

Originally shared by Michael Pfaff

What's the Holmes D&D clone?

Interesting list.

Interesting list.
http://www.medievalists.net/2014/07/24/top-10-medieval-places-dont-exist/

Just noticed that my most recent post made it on to the new 'OSR Today' a few days ago.

Just noticed that my most recent post made it on to the new 'OSR Today' a few days ago.
http://osrtoday.com/2014/07/19/many-monsters-carry-treasure-a-continued-look-at-holmes-basic

Zenopus at Charm City Game Day 2014

Playing DCC with David Brawley

An '80s mash-up - the Gelatinous Rubik's Cube, brought to you by Desert Scribe on his blog.

The next installment is posted, covering the first section on Treasure.

The next installment is posted, covering the first section on Treasure. As we might expect, Holmes' Treasure Table is the one from OD&D with a few simplifications. Holmes also intended for Basic to only have silver and gold coins, and simple values for gems/jewelry.
http://zenopusarchives.blogspot.com/2014/07/part-34-many-monsters-carry-treasure.html

Much thanks to Guy Fullerton for the info about Spartan 10 in this post. #completewarlock

Much thanks to Guy Fullerton for the info about Spartan 10 in this post. #completewarlock
http://zenopusarchives.blogspot.com/2014/07/tsrs-response-to-warlock.html

If you are new here, I'm in middle of a long series of blog posts going through J.

If you are new here, I'm in middle of a long series of blog posts going through J. Eric Holmes' manuscript for the Basic rulebook. I'm about 2/3 of the way through, having just finished the Monster List and about to start on Treasure.  The updated index of all posts can be found here: http://zenopusarchives.blogspot.com/2013/11/at-long-last.html
(I'm in the process of going back and adding links to the post of each post so it's easier to navigate back and forth through the series).
http://zenopusarchives.blogspot.com/2013/11/at-long-last.html

We added about 85 new members here in the last week. Welcome!

A D&D article by Ethan Gilsdorf in the NYT today includes a photo of the low-impact Holmes Basic dice.

A D&D article by Ethan Gilsdorf in the NYT today includes a photo of the low-impact Holmes Basic dice. See also commentary by Roger G-S: http://rolesrules.blogspot.com/2014/07/d-meets-literary-bigtime.html

http://www.nytimes.com/2014/07/14/books/dungeons-dragons-has-influenced-a-generation-of-writers.html?_r=0

Holmes was huge fan of the pulps.

Holmes was huge fan of the pulps. The seller billy galaxy on ebay currently has 400+ (!) listings of books & magazines from Holmes' estate, inc many issues of the magazines Wayne mentions here.

Originally shared by Wayne Rossi

Today's post focuses on a great web project where you can find seminal pulp magazines in PDF. I focus on Weird Tales, Amazing Stories and Planet Stories.

Seems like the quick start rules for Lejendary Adventures is still up at Troll...

Seems like the quick start rules for Lejendary Adventures is still up at Troll Lords. http://www.trolllord.com/downloads/pdfs/la_quickstart.pdf
I was interested in seeing what the default task resolution mechanic was in Gary Gygax's games that he did later on in life. Seems he went with Ability Scores = percentages. Skills based on ability scores. Roll under with d00
http://www.trolllord.com/downloads/pdfs/la_quickstart.pdf

A few years ago I finally acquired a copy of the Holmes rules - haven'thad the chance to play yet, but it's a great...

A few years ago I finally acquired a copy of the Holmes rules - haven't had the chance to play yet, but it's a great little read, I'm still really fascinated by the different options in combat (my early playing was BECMI and AD&D). I printed out Meepo's Holmes Companion to make it more "complete" - I like imagining campaigns for simple compact systems, like T&T5 and S&W Wb (I've played the former, but not the latter), especially for new players. Do people generally home-rule their way with Holmes' or are there other expansions people like to use?

This OSR logo I drew is inspired by the same TSR Wizard logo

This OSR logo I drew is inspired by the same TSR Wizard logo from the last post - here the wizard is firing his wand. If you click on the logo on my blog, you'll go to the OSR Search site by Brendan S. Feel free to use this logo for anything OSR related.

Useful advice from OS FRP: "Simple rule of thumb: the early printings [for Holmes Basic] have the wizard logo with...

Useful advice from OS FRP: "Simple rule of thumb: the early printings [for Holmes Basic] have the wizard logo with more art by Otus and Diesel, and the later ones [for Moldvay Basic] have the rectangular TSR face logo with some new pictures by Dee and Willingham."
http://oldschoolfrp.tumblr.com/post/91469092527/wizard-logo-from-a-second-printing-of-d-d-module

Last of the monsters!

Last of the monsters!
http://zenopusarchives.blogspot.com/2014/07/part-33-their-appearance-is-as-spectral.html

Dyson's DCC-ified Mad Hermit Tree. Fantastic illustrations, killer bees!

Dyson's DCC-ified Mad Hermit Tree. Fantastic illustrations, killer bees!
http://rpgcharacters.wordpress.com/2014/07/08/tuesday-map-the-hollow-tree-some-dcc-toys

Dyson Logos scanned all of the art from TSR's Monster Cards Set 1 (1981), by Roslof (RIP), Dee, Otus, Willingham,...

Dyson Logos scanned all of the art from TSR's Monster Cards Set 1 (1981), by Roslof (RIP), Dee, Otus, Willingham, Laforce & Holloway. The art is of a piece with TSR module covers of the era - I love the vivid colors. Well worth checking out if you have never seen them before.
http://rpgcharacters.wordpress.com/2014/07/03/add-monster-cards-set-1

Wayne Rossi featured my reference sheets in his new community. Join up if you like lots of free RPG Tables & Charts.

Wayne Rossi featured my reference sheets in his new community. Join up if you like lots of free RPG Tables & Charts.

Originally shared by Wayne Rossi

Zach H does some great stuff - this contains excellent "Holmesian Random Names" (a brilliant name generator) and "One Hit Point Monsters." Additionally, his Monster Reference Sheet is designed to let you roll up new creatures using the Holmes monsters as ingredients. Check it out!
https://sites.google.com/site/zenopusarchives/home/holmes-ref

This may be the first time I've linked to a YouTube video here:

This may be the first time I've linked to a YouTube video here:
"A neutral territory live role-playing game using an old game, Holmes D&D. These are the rules. I DM and four players play one of each race/class type. A non-player hosts the game on his/her YT channel. A one-off proving the system doesn't matter for great role-playing and we are all created equal so let's have some fun and close some gaps/arguments."
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OWL4Qo5hgyg

Is anyone aware of an attempt at re-doing the typeset of the Holmes edition?

Is anyone aware of an attempt at re-doing the typeset of the Holmes edition? I dig reading this stuff from time to time, but as far as the actual book goes, the typesetting makes my OCD-ness cringe.

Paleologos on DF corrects a common misconception about Jean Wells original version of B3 (the orange-cover free pdf...

Paleologos on DF corrects a common misconception about Jean Wells original version of B3 (the orange-cover free pdf version):

"Actually - I'm running it now and I think the original B3 is quite a blast. I need to correct a common misconception, though. There are no missing stairways on the original map. I think the source of confusion is John Rateliff's review:

John D. Rateliff wrote:
"The area map was deleted, along with all the accompanying wilderness encounters. Several areas of the castle are redrawn, adding or deleting rooms, while the entire Tower Level vanishes from the revised version. More significantly, Moldvay fixes a significant flaw in the original, explaining how the princess got upstairs in her own castle by adding a main staircase (area 22 in the "green cover" edition)."

There are actually TWO ways between the two main levels in Wells' version - a stairway in the southeast corner (shows up on maps of both levels) and a trap door in a tower to the west. There are also stairs to a separate tower.

Moldvay didn't add a main staircase in area 22 of the green cover version - he added a stairway to the outside. I have no idea what Rateliff was thinking, but he was totally confused and his error regarding the absence of stairways shows up all over the internet.

Always remember to check your sources..."

From here:
http://www.dragonsfoot.org/forums/viewtopic.php?p=1528791#p1528791

Quote from Rob Conley's series.

Quote from Rob Conley's series.
"Like the Basic DnD Holmes Blue Book there are references to the larger rule set embodied by the 5e PHB, DMG, and MM. I am fine with that as obviously one purpose of this FREE PDF is to be a very large brochure to sell the core rulebooks."
http://batintheattic.blogspot.com/2014/07/breaking-down-dnd-basic-part-3.html

Dyson Logos expands the Mad Hermit encounter.

Dyson Logos expands the Mad Hermit encounter.

Originally shared by Dyson Logos

Due to Cuba and Bluesfest tonight's game is going to start later than usual and be minus one player. So we're pulling out DCC and I'm going to run a twist on one of the most classic of D&D encounters - the Mad Hermit from the Keep on the Borderlands - involving endless stairs, matryoshka trees, and a bee hive of insanity.

Here are a few covers you may use, for your new 5ed !

Originally shared by Mark Hunt

Here are a few covers you may use, for your new 5ed !

DM David points out the old school module references in the humorous disclaimer on the first page of the new Basic...

DM David points out the old school module references in the humorous disclaimer on the first page of the new Basic D&D. One is a reference to the Bugbear Lair (Cave H) in the Caves of Chaos in B2.
http://dmdavid.com/tag/dungeons-dragons-fifth-edition-basic-bules-an-annotated-page-1

Some wicked World of Greyhawk minis that I've heard of but never seen before. Photo by Allan Grohe

Some wicked World of Greyhawk minis that I've heard of but never seen before. Photo by Allan Grohe
http://knights-n-knaves.com/phpbb3/viewtopic.php?p=186322#p186322

Meet the New Basic...

Meet the New Basic...
http://www.wizards.com/dnd/Article.aspx?x=dnd/basicrules

Anybody in the UK remember this article?

Anybody in the UK remember this article? "An Introduction to Fantasy Wargames" by Steve Jackson (the UK fellow of Games Workshop /Fighting Fantasy, not the American of SJG). The article, which may be a flier or torn from a magazine/book, was spotted recently in an Ebay auction for a UK Holmes Basic Set. Google didn't turn up any hits except for a much later GW book by a different author.

Matt Finch discussing the concept of a 'Basic D&D'.

My Half-Elves for Holmes Basic:

My Half-Elves for Holmes Basic:

Half-Elf: At creation, a half-elf character must decide if he or she favors his human or elf parentage. If human, they will follow all rules for humans; if elf, all rules for elves.

A response to this DF thread:
http://www.dragonsfoot.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=15&t=66583

Back to the Crypt: this installment covers Shadows, Skeletons, Spectres, Stirges & Trolls.

Back to the Crypt: this installment covers Shadows, Skeletons, Spectres, Stirges & Trolls. In the original Skeleton entry you can see that Holmes intended for monsters to use a d6 for Hit Dice.
 
http://zenopusarchives.blogspot.com/2014/06/part-32-commonly-found-near-graveyards.html

Contest to port the 1978 DND1 BASIC program (Ultima pre-cursor)

Congratulations to Random Wizard for winning the contest to port the 1978 DND1 BASIC program (Ultima pre-cursor) to a modern browser.

Original Link:
http://randomwizard.blogspot.com/2014/06/code-contests-and-lord-british.html

Now at:
https://www.kirith.com/random-wizard/articles/code-contests-and-lord-british.html

Turko on DF posted a picture of the Holmes dice set recreated with Gamescience dice.

Turko on DF posted a picture of the Holmes dice set recreated with Gamescience dice. Unfortunately they are not in production currently. BTW, the thread there was started by Michael Thomas if anyone can help him out.
http://www.dragonsfoot.org/forums/viewtopic.php?p=1522429#p1522429

OD&D rule buried in the description of the monk in Blackmoor: "Note however that extremely silent creatures will...

OD&D rule buried in the description of the monk in Blackmoor: "Note however that extremely silent creatures will double surprise possibilities, i.e., halflings, thieves, bugbears and undead double possibilities".

TRP at K&KA mentions how he placed the Tower of Zenopus in the JG town of Verbosh, as part of a larger campaign also...

TRP at K&KA mentions how he placed the Tower of Zenopus in the JG town of Verbosh, as part of a larger campaign also using Caverns of Thracia. I'm not familiar with Verbosh - anyone here use it before?
http://knights-n-knaves.com/phpbb3/viewtopic.php?p=185917#p185917

This is neat - OGRE for the same price as in 1977.

This is neat - OGRE for the same price as in 1977. Reminds of the $1 Mini Car Wars I ordered from SJG in the '80s via an ad in Dragon. I still have that around here somewhere. I'm going to get this.

Robert Neaves is playing Holmes Basic. See his comments on the post below.

I'd like to think Holmes would enjoy these figures, as he was both a Cthulhu fan and a toy collector.

I'd like to think Holmes would enjoy these figures, as he was both a Cthulhu fan and a toy collector. The fourth one is a #dagonite.
http://2warpstoneptune.wordpress.com/2014/06/16/warpos-legends-of-cthulhu-action-figures-transcend-trite-retro-fad/

The Adventure of the Unreasonable Copyright Extension:

The Adventure of the Unreasonable Copyright Extension:
(the other Holmes)
http://www.dragonsfoot.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=11&t=66526

For Father's Day I received the latest Tolkien hardcover.

For Father's Day I received the latest Tolkien hardcover. It's a prose translation of Beowulf with a bonus previously unpublished short story, Sellic Spell, which attempts to recreate the original Beowulf fairy tale. Read more about it at Sacnoth's Scriptorium by John Rateliff, author of the History of the Hobbbit and former TSR/WOTC employee.

See my comments on Claytonian JP's post.

See my comments on Claytonian JP's post. If you have the original Holmes version you know that this panel is only half of the original artwork.

Originally shared by Claytonian JP

Most boring module pic evar? Probs
http://oldschoolfrp.tumblr.com/post/88770737492/a-traveler-waits-on-the-drawbridge-for-the-guards

A look at the 'Ranger-like' abilities of Hobbits in Basic D&D.

A look at the 'Ranger-like' abilities of Hobbits in Basic D&D.
http://zenopusarchives.blogspot.com/2014/06/hobbits-as-rangers-of-basic.html

Veteran Old-School DM looking for like-minded Players for REGULAR(weekly) Basic D&D game (B/X Moldvay/Cook w/some...

Veteran Old-School DM looking for like-minded Players for REGULAR (weekly) Basic D&D game (B/X Moldvay/Cook w/some House Rules).

We have 3 current committed Players and a small pool of irregulars. We're looking to round out the party with some more regulars who can commit to gaming every Thurs. evening from 6-10 EST/EDT.
We are NOT looking for any more irregular attendees, sorry :)

We're looking for RPG/D&D/OSR newbies or veterans of every stripe and everyone in between!
I've been playing since 1978 and running games my whole life (I'm 43).
We have players ranging from their early 20's to late 40s.

My games are old school-inspired (OD&D, AD&D, Judges Guild, Arduin Grimoire) with some new-school/Indie-RPG house rules (Burning Wheel/Torchberer) and I'm fully immersed in the OSR/retro-clone universe - pulling inspiration from Labyrinth Lord, OSRIC, Swords & Wizardry, Castles & Crusades, Lamentations of the Flame Princess, Carcosa, Dungeon Crawl Classics, Astonishing Swordsmen & Sorcerers of Hyperborea, et al. as well as related periodicals (Fight on! Magazine, & Magazine, Gygax Magazine, Oubliette Magazine, Knockspell Magazine, etc.).

We are currently playing a campaign set in the World Of Greyhawk (foothills of the Abbor-Alz) and we only have 3 sessions under our belt (all PCs are still currently 1st level), so it's a great time to join up!

Who's in?

Interested? Contact me via info in photo :)
Again, please only reach out if you're available for REGULAR Thursday Evening (6-10pm EST/EDT) sessions via Google Hangout.
-=A

Maps of a keep by Dyson Logos in the style of the maps of The Keep

Maps of a keep by Dyson Logos in the style of the maps of The Keep from B2.

Originally shared by Dyson Logos

Hey folks, miss me?

Internet is back, and I've got maps of a keep on the blog!

On Friday I posted the map of Greater Briar Keep – designed to fill a role similar to the very familiar to most “Keep on the Borderlands”. Today’s map is a closeup of the structure of the main keep, expanded over four levels. There could technically be a map of the fifth level, but it would just be the battlements on top of the two towers of the keep.

And here are both maps in question:

Chris, let me know if you have any questions about J.

Chris, let me know if you have any questions about J. Erics' writings or anything else for your interview. I've exchanged some emails with Chris over the last few years (Allan G got us in touch),  but I'm interested in seeing what your focused interview turns up.

Basic poster & friends. One of almost 500 photos on the #ntrpgcon FB page.

Basic poster & friends. One of almost 500 photos on the #ntrpgcon FB page.
https://www.facebook.com/257759370993971/photos/a.425893144180592.1073741828.257759370993971/466987876737785/?type=3&theater

I found a dedication to Holmes Basic artist David Trampier in a random punk rock fanzine.

#ntrpgcon report by From the Sorcerer's Skull, mentions hearing stories of Eric Holmes from his son.

#ntrpgcon report by From the Sorcerer's Skull, mentions hearing stories of Eric Holmes from his son.
http://sorcerersskull.blogspot.com/2014/06/ntrpgcon-after-report.html

Veteran Old-School D&D DM looking for like-minded local (Staten Island,NY) players for regular weekly D&D game.

Veteran Old-School D&D DM looking for like-minded local (Staten Island, NY) players for regular weekly D&D game. OD&D, B/X (Moldvay/Cook), Basic (Holmes) AD&D (1st Ed.) or retro-clones (Labyrinth Lord, OSRIC, Swords & Wizardry, Castles & Crusades, Lamentations of the Flame Princess, Carcosa, Dungeon Crawl Classics, Astonishing Swordsmen & Sorcerers of Hyperborea, et al.). Who's in?

Looking for newbies or veterans or everyone in between!
I've been playing since 1978 and running games my whole life (I'm 43).
I run several games in Manhattan/Brooklyn and on Google Hangouts but really want to get a regular local game going here on Staten Island :)
Willing to play at FLGS (Friendly Local Gaming Store), my house (10314) or yours!
Let's party like it's 1981!
Interested? PM me on G+ or contact me via info in photo :)
-=A

I'm curious if anyone house-rules the Holmes' restriction on spell books being brought into dungeons and the need...

I'm curious if anyone house-rules the Holmes' restriction on spell books being brought into dungeons and the need for MUs to return to their study to re-memorize spells.

Do you play as-is and just let MUs take advantage the scroll creation rules? Do you have low-level groups venture close to home base so MUs can return daily to refresh spells?

#ntrpgcon pic from The Savage Afterworld...

#ntrpgcon pic from The Savage Afterworld http://savageafterworld.blogspot.com/2014/06/ntrpg-con-day-1-title-goes-here-thurs.html

I've added a new Gadget to my blog's sidebar that will generate Holmesian Random Names.

I've added a new Gadget to my blog's sidebar that will generate Holmesian Random Names. Thanks to Paul Gorman for providing the source code.
http://zenopusarchives.blogspot.com/2014/06/holmesian-random-names-in-sidebar.html

Michael Badolato's (Badmike) annual B1 game is being shown live on camera 3 right now:

Michael Badolato's (Badmike) annual B1 game is being shown live on camera 3 right now:
http://www.ustream.tv/channel/ntrpgcon3

Table of Contents from the Starter Set rulebook.

Table of Contents from the Starter Set rulebook. Shows more of the cover art; I like it better. The largest part of the rulebook is Spells, followed by Combat.
http://www.wizards.com/DnD/Article.aspx?x=dnd/4ex/20140605#93062

Who here is headed to #ntrpgcon

Who here is headed to #ntrpgcon ? Not I, sadly. However, I hear that Chris Holmes will be attending. If you run into him, or play in a game with him, I'm sure he'd love to hear about your appreciation for his father's work. He previously attended in 2012, see this post:
http://zenopusarchives.blogspot.com/2012/06/chris-holmes-plays-ept-at-ntrpgcon.html

A short retrospective on the late Dave Trampier's work for Basic D&D.

A short retrospective on the late Dave Trampier's work for Basic D&D.
http://zenopusarchives.blogspot.com/2014/06/dave-trampier-basic-d-artist.html

A new edition of Rob Kuntz's Bottle City module is coming to print by Black Blade Publishing (Allan Grohe's company).

A new edition of Rob Kuntz's Bottle City module is coming to print by Black Blade Publishing (Allan Grohe's company). BC was part of the 1974 Castle Greyhawk when Rob joined Gary as co-DM.

Please welcome several members who have joined recently: Richard Pilliard - longtime DF member; David Brawley of...

Please welcome several members who have joined recently: Richard Pilliard - longtime DF member; David Brawley of Tower of the Archmage blog (http://towerofthearchmage.blogspot.com/) and Doug M of Smoldering Wizard blog (http://smolderingwizard.com/)

Holmesians! I'd like your thoughts on these notes about integrating some more Greyhawk material into Holmes D&D.

Holmesians! I'd like your thoughts on these notes about integrating some more Greyhawk material into Holmes D&D.
http://odd74.proboards.com/thread/10028/greyhawk-holmes

A 1983 letter from Dr. Holmes to Space Gamer magazine, describing when he was interviewed by an anti-D&D group.

A 1983 letter from Dr. Holmes to Space Gamer magazine, describing when he was interviewed by an anti-D&D group.
http://zenopusarchives.blogspot.com/2014/06/holmes-on-anti-d-hysteria.html

A list of 192 (!) free D&D adventures, put together by Landifarne on Dragonsfoot. Lots of great stuff here.

A list of 192 (!) free D&D adventures, put together by Landifarne on Dragonsfoot. Lots of great stuff here.
http://www.dragonsfoot.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=11&t=60472

More info on the 'New Basic':

More info on the 'New Basic':
Q:Will adventures be focused more toward the basic rules, or is the assumption that they are built for people with access to the books?

A:Our goal is to make Basic D&D contain everything you need to play, or run, the major campaigns we launch, such as Tyranny of Dragons. That means that any game material referenced in those adventures will typically either be in Basic D&D, or in the adventure itself.
http://www.wizards.com/dnd/Article.aspx?x=dnd/dndqa/20140530

Part 31, covering Pegasus through Rust Monster.

Part 31, covering Pegasus through Rust Monster. The last of the deleted 'monsters' is in this section: Pirates. Arrrrr!
http://zenopusarchives.blogspot.com/2014/05/part-31-this-inoffensive-looking-little.html

Stratochamp's Holmes sets

Shared by ZachG

I just added our 250th member! Welcome, Whaylen Blackwarden

Another Holmes play report from Super Galactic Dreadnought:

A Discussion on OSR Gaming about Evil Cleric spells in Holmes and OD&D.

A Discussion on OSR Gaming about Evil Cleric spells in Holmes and OD&D. Evil Clerics can only cast the reversed versions.
http://osrgaming.org/forums/viewtopic.php?p=52126#p52126

Tom Wham advertisement in Dragon #9

A rare "dungeon" by Tom Wham, from an advertisement in Dragon #9, July 1977 - the same month Holmes Basic was first sold at Origins 77. The ad doesn't mention the Basic Set but does mention the Monster & Treasure Assortment and the Polyhedra and Percentile Dice Sets.
http://oldschoolfrp.tumblr.com/post/87104957760/tom-whams-far-out-dungeon-map-in-an-ad-for-the

Noble Knight is having their Spring sale & has The Maze of Peril, Holmes' 1986 D&D novel featuring the adventures of...

Noble Knight is having their Spring sale & has The Maze of Peril, Holmes' 1986 D&D novel featuring the adventures of Boinger the Halfling & Zereth the Elf, in stock for $8.96 plus shipping.
http://www.nobleknight.com/ProductDetail.asp_Q_ProductID_E_2147463148_A_InventoryID_E_2148066402_A_ProductLineID_E_2137426514_A_ManufacturerID_E_2145086152_A_CategoryID_E_16_A_GenreID_E_

Pretty amazing.

Pretty amazing.
http://www.wizards.com/dnd/Article.aspx?x=dnd/4ll/20140527

Article on Black Gate about RPG dice

Article on Black Gate about RPG dice, inspired by the author's original Holmes dice.
http://www.blackgate.com/2014/05/19/loaded

Question from a new Holmes DM about how much XP to award players for solving a murder-mystery.

Question from a new Holmes DM about how much XP to award players for solving a murder-mystery.
http://www.dragonsfoot.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=15&t=66256

B2 as hex crawl. Player report of a recent game run by Peter Fröhlich. Complete with pumpkin-headed bugbears.

B2 as hex crawl. Player report of a recent game run by Peter Fröhlich. Complete with pumpkin-headed bugbears.
http://towerofthearchmage.blogspot.com/2014/05/expedition-to-keep-on-borderlands.html

I wrote a little bit about the idea of an OSR Stat Block and Wayne Rossi work on an OSR compatibility logo.

I wrote a little bit about the idea of an OSR Stat Block and Wayne Rossi work on an OSR compatibility logo. I thought it would be a cool idea to start a thread where people put in the Stat Block they use when writing up adventures. Alex Schroeder replied with his preference (http://alexschroeder.ch/wiki/2014-05-22_Stat_Blocks)
http://randomwizard.blogspot.com/2014/05/osr-stat-block.html

Random Wizard: B1 retrospective

Random Wizard has a retrospective on the module B1.

Original Link:
http://randomwizard.blogspot.com/2014/05/b1-in-search-of-unknown.html

Now at:
https://www.kirith.com/random-wizard/articles/b1-in-search-of-the-unknown.html

A post on Black Gate by James M showing off some of his original home made maps.

A post on Black Gate by James M showing off some of his original home made maps. He starts the post showing Holmes' Zenopus map. Anybody else here still have some of their old maps? I have a few of mine posted here: draw your own floor plan | zenopusarchives
http://www.blackgate.com/2014/05/20/little-blue-squares

My impressions of the newly announced D&D Starter Set.

My impressions of the newly announced D&D Starter Set.
http://zenopusarchives.blogspot.com/2014/05/meet-new-basic.html

The 1982 AD&D Pen and Poster Set with art by Roslof.

A product I'd never heard of before, the 1982 AD&D Pen and Poster Set, with art by Jim Roslof. Image posted on the Acaeum by misterspock.
https://www.acaeum.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=1&t=14309