[UA] defining skills probs

[uneasy at magnaspeed.net]

I thought I'd actually try to run a game.  The players are not expert or 
modern day roleplayers by any stretch of imagination.  But I want to try 
something new.  We played another game where the players make up skills, 
but one guy just won't get it.

I just gave them real basic info.  Make up who you are (background, 
obsession, etc.).  Put points in the 4 stats.  Then put points in skills 
you want.  That kind of thing.

I told them stats are characteristics like strength and intelligence in 
other games (you know what).  Skills are something you DO with your 
stats.  I gave them a dozen skill examples from the book.  I say they 
should be able to make a sentence something like this:  I use my <stat> to 
<skill>.

I think this rule holds up:
I use my body to do karate.
I use my speed to sprint.
I use my mind to steal cars.
I use my soul to remain calm.

He wanted a skills called "dexterity" and "willpower".  Jeesh, those are 
some of the words I used to DESCRIBE to him what the stats were!  I say he 
can't just say he's dexterous in everything.  It's just redefining the 
stat.  So he changes "dexterity" to "very agile on the key board, able to 
handle small parts accurately, do not fumble item you handle or are 
tossed".  Honestly, that's how he defined one of his skills!  Am I wrong in 
saying this guy just does not get it?

This guy gets me angry at times, as you can tell.  I was hoping to get 
people started without making them read rules right away.  I think you can 
do that in UA.  Now I don't know.

Just venting...
AL
uneasy at magnaspeed.net


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