Fantasy Friday: Cultural Analogs and World Consolidation...

Good Afternoon, All:

Earlier this week, I started looking over my go-to general list of cultural analogs for fantasy world creation, and made a few notes regarding the Consolidated World concept I've been slowly working toward. The basic list of cultural analogs (and I include the traditional AD&D/D&D racial stereotypes as analogs as well) that I like to use can be found below. I've also included names of kingdoms or regions for my Consolidated World as a reminder to myself of campaigns in the past that I should be stealing from to help put this personal campaign setting together. In some cases, I'm using names newly created, for those instances where I haven't developed cultural analogs in that direction as yet. Obviously, I'm still reviewing my options for some of these.

In your own campaign worlds, do you use cultural analogs? If so, how many do you use, and what have you named them? (Warning: I may steal some of the better names for my own personal use, if they resonate with me.)

Cultural Analog	Kingdom/Region Name
Aboriginal	Kurai Tribes
Afrikaner	Akirfa/Kwankala
Ancient Egypt	Sudan/Badari Dynasty
Ancient Greek	Synovia
Arabic/Moor	Al-Morava
Aztec	Mazteklan
Babylonian/Sumerian	Ubedian City-States
Caribbean	Stefari Islands
Carthage	Kenaani League/Sydonian Hegemony
Chinese	Husan/Legacy of Krang/Rokim
Dwarven	Duar Triumvirate
Elven	Arcadia
England/Camelot	Britannia/Valeria
France	Massalia
Gaul	Galatos/Keltos
Gorean	Port Kar
Halfling/Valefolk	Vale of the Lady
Ice Age/Inuit	Frigea
Inca	Tawantin
Indonesia	Bengkali
Japanese	Isles of Zai
Korean	Gojosan
Maya	Yukatesh
Mongols	Donghan Hordes
Native American Tribal	Merokee Lands
Norse	Vinland
Orcish	Malnoth Tyranny
Persia	Media
Roman	Achea
Russian	Gardariki/Khazarea
Slavic	Pasalovakia
Spain	Iberia

Enjoy,
Flynn

World Consolidation: The Kingdom of Synovia...

Good Morning, All:

One of the first kingdoms to define in this project is also one of the kingdoms that has appeared in some form or other in the most campaign worlds that I've created, the Kingdom of Synovia. In fact, a friend and fellow GM liked the name so much that he started using it in his campaign worlds. I originally came up with the name back in my college days, while studying for Anatomy and Physiology. (The fluid of the knee joint is called synovial fluid.) From its beginning, Synovia has typically been a city-state with an Ancient Greek flavor, albeit often with heavy medieval elements mixed in as a result of being the central hub of a classic D&D-esque fantasy setting.

Synovia, Kingdom of
The Kingdom of Synovia is actually a walled city-state that governs and protects all lands within fifty miles of its gates. Having survived the apocalyptic Dark Times, the kingdom may yet fall as varying factions vie to put an heir on the recently vacated throne.
Capital: The City-State of Synovia is the capitol of the kingdom.

City-State of Synovia (Large City, Pop. 20,000): Aristocracy (House of Lords, made up of influential Noble Houses, nominally led by a patrilineal king); Reaction To Outsiders: Indifferent; Resources: Processed metal goods; Important NPCs: Sir Andrus Phaetren (heroic male human warlord and heir apparent to the throne), Lord Nigritus (dour male human admiral and lifelong rival of Sir Andrus), High Magus Ravenwolf (jovial male human elementalist).

Population: 100,000, with 20,000 living in the City-State of Synovia proper, roughly 10,000 among the major townships that support Synovia and the remainder in the villages and farms on Synovial lands. The population is predominately human, with a significant minority of dwarves and valefolk.
Common Language(s): Trade, Synovial and, to a lesser extent, Duar and Vaelic.
Society: Based on Ancient Greek society, with the use of medieval British terms to make it more accessible to gamers. Synovia is a classic starting point for many campaigns.
Government: Synovia is ruled by its aristocracy, the House of Lords, who are comprised of the lords of those noble houses that hold both wealth and political power, with a patrilineal monarch as its nominal ruler. Most political decisions are made in the High Courts.
Diplomatic Relations: Synovia is traditionally at odds with the Slavic-influenced country of Pasalovakia, and on good terms with a nearby dwarven kingdom (usually a variant of the Duar Triumvirate).
Trade & Commerce: Synovia deals primarily with raw ores and processed metal and ceramic/pottery goods. It can survive on what its farmlands grow, but imports exotic foodstuffs.
Military: Synovia has a standing army of about 10,000 soldiers, many recruited from farms and villages under Synovia’s protection as part of the land’s taxes. During times of peace, the military actively patrols the local lands to protect its citizenry. During the tumultuous times following the recent death of Synovia’s sovereigns, some Houses have used the military to extort more taxes than usual from the citizenry to support the city dwellers in the aftermath of the Dark Times.
Major Settlements: In the consolidated version of Synovia, there are three major townships that support the kingdom.

Greenfell (Township, Pop. 1000): Lord-Mayor (appointed by the Synovial King); Reaction To Outsiders: Friendly; Resources: Lumber; Important NPCs: Lord-Mayor Volus of Greenfell (loyal male human mercenary/aristocrat), Solarius the Tailor (jovial male human spymaster). Greenfell is the closest township to the neutral trading camp/tent-city known as Trader’s Point.

Newport (Township, Pop. 2000): Town Council (voted by populace); Reaction To Outsiders: Indifferent; Resources: Port city; Important NPCs: Amandrea (stoic female Cyclops oracle), Father Claudius (pious male human cleric of Joven), Johanus the Hawk (alert male human commander of the guard). Pilgrims sometimes come to Newport to seek the advice of Amandrea, the Oracle that lives on the largest island in Newport Bay. The Temple of the Three Graces houses the greatest healers, magical and non-magical, in the kingdom.

Silverdale (Township, Pop. 1500): Town Council (Lord-Mayor appointed by Synovia King, remainder voted by populace); Reaction To Outsiders: Friendly; Resources: Silver mines; Important NPCs: TBD. Silverdale is a day’s travel from the most commonly known entrance to the Vaults of Celebrus, making it a popular city for adventurers and mercenaries seeking their fortune in the ruins.

Major Organizations: Bandits have taken advantage of the turmoil in the city to harass the outlying villages, leading to the formation of the Synovial Rangers, who are comprised of and protect the citizens of the threatened regions. The Thorns of Alonna, an order of holy warriors devoted to the goddess of nature, have a high presence in the rural lands in and about Synovia.
Symbol: Synovia’s current emblem is a golden dragon rampant on a crimson background.

One of the things that I learned from this experience is that the template above requires a lot of work to fill out. I may have to simplify it even further. Any suggestions you might have would be greatly appreciated.

With Regards,
Flynn

Integrating The Worlds: Looking At Races...

Good Evening, All:

In a moment of inspiration, I started to consider what I would do if I were to follow Rob Conley's advice in blending elements from my various past campaigns into one core setting. One of the first elements that I decided to consider was to examine what races would be available for characters. Toward that end, I began by listing the various character races I've either allowed in my campaigns or that I've offered as an option, even if it wasn't taken. In addition, if I had a mini for it, I figured I needed to at least consider it. Looking at the list, I determined that an "Integrated World" could not, by virtue of sheer diversity, be limited to a small handful of character races. With that in mind, I tried to come up with a nice core list, removing the least interesting of those that duplicated a niche that had already been filled. What follows here is a "Master List of Character Races" for consideration in the "Integrated World" concept.

Races of the "Integrated World"
The following are civilized races commonly encountered among the myriad of kingdoms and nations of the "Integrated World". Not every race is common to a given area, so players should check with the GM to insure that a specific race is available as an option for a given campaign before building their character. The only exception to this rule is the Human race, which can be found in almost every region of the "Integrated World" that supports civilization.

Human
Humans are the standard by which all others are measured. Humans do not hold this distinction because they are the oldest, wisest, or strongest of the races, but because they are the most widespread and varied. Due to their high adaptability, Humans are found in more of the various environments of the world than any other race. Human skin tones cover a wide range of coloration, depending on region, from black, tan or white to yellow, red, blue and even green.

Artathi
The Artathi are a proud race of felinids who live on the vast plains. While most resemble a humanoid lion in appearance, covered with a thin tawny coat and leonine facial features, other sub-races of Artathi exist that resemble other species of large cats. As a rule, the Artathi are very close to Humans in terms of average height and weight, and possess a similar lifespan. A very proud race, the Artathi are easily insulted by others, and tend to react poorly to such efforts.

Dwarf
Dwarves are much like Humans, but generally living underground or in mountainous areas. They are famed miners and smiths although, like Humans, they specialize in any number of trades. Generally shorter than Humans, they are on average stockier and hairier, usually sporting full beards. In the distant history of the "Integrated World", dwarven smiths have created some of the greatest and most powerful items of power. Dwarves tend to be long-lived, living nearly four times the age of man (about 250 years), but are not prolific breeders, having children rarely and spaced far apart, and having few women among them. Dwarven children are cherished by their parents, and are defended at all costs from the dwarves' traditional enemies, which are typically giants and vile humanoids.

Elf
A long-lived people with a tremendous oral history, the Elves have tended to isolate themselves from the rest of the world, preferring the woodlands to which they once felt a strong sense of connection. Elves often appear as youthful-seeming men and women of great beauty living in forests and other natural places, underground, or in wells and springs. Elves tend to be beautiful, fair and slender, possessing unusual speed and agility, and generally prefer to fight with the bow. Tribal Elves might use a spear, while the more civilized tend to prefer blades.

Goblin
A crude, uncouth humanoid, the Goblin stands a little over three feet tall and weigh 40 to 45 pounds. Its eyes are usually dull and glazed, varying in color from red to yellow. A Goblin’s skin color ranges from yellow through any shade of orange to a deep red; usually all members of a single tribe are about the same color. Being bullied by bigger, stronger creatures has taught Goblins to exploit what few advantages they have: sheer numbers and malicious ingenuity. The concept of a fair fight is meaningless in their society. They favor ambushes, overwhelming odds, dirty tricks, and any other edge they can devise. Goblins are known for their small size and stealthy nature.

Kelshani
A majority of the Kelshan are nothing more other than members of a vile and despicable race of the cavernous underworld, raiding the surface world for slaves and treasure to sacrifice to their patron, Sandamos, the Lord of Demons. However, there are those among the Kelshan who have come to see another path, one of Light and Redemption, and are often ostracized from their native communities for their beliefs. These red-skinned humanoids bear a strong resemblance to devils, complete with forked tails, small bony horns upon their heads and cloven hooves for feet. Along with their general tendencies towards cruelty and sadism, their physical appearance has earned the Kelshan the nickname of “devil-men.”

Kobold
Reptilian humanoids standing a little over three feet in height, Kobolds are generally considered a cowardly race. The scaly hide of a Kobold ranges from a dark rusty brown to a dull black, with eyes that glow bright red in the the dark and two small horns on their temples that range from deep dun to a pale bone white in color. Kobolds are often not taken seriously due to their size and lack of physical strength, but they more than make up for these deficiencies with ferocious tenacity.

Lizardfolk
Barbaric reptilian humanoids somewhat resembling a humanoid crocodile walking upright, lizardfolk typically live a tribal existence, fishing and gathering when they can, and scavenging or raiding their neighbors when times are harsh. When full grown, lizardfolk stand a head taller than the average Human and weigh perhaps fifty pounds more. Their scaly hides range from dark green to deep brown, and their non-prehensile tails extend perhaps a yard or so behind them. Lizardfolk rarely wear clothing or armor, although they occasionally wear harnesses from which they can fasten tools, pouches and weapons.

Mageborn
Long considered to be the result of the magical breeding of Humans and elves by ancient draconic magelords, the mageborn are a fairly reclusive race with a strong connection to arcane magic. The exact nature of their true origins is lost in the distant past, and the mageborn no longer suffer the prejudices once given to their ancestors in the first few generations of their existence.

Mantid
Roaming the deserts and savannas of the equatorial regions, the Mantids are a race of large, intelligent insects. Mature Mantids are roughly 7 feet tall at the shoulder and 11 feet long. Three pair of limbs extend from the Mantids' thorax: the lower pair is used for walking, the upper pair manipulates the environment and the middle pair can be used for either walking or handling objects. The Mantids' green, chitinous exoskeleton is extremely durable and resistant to damage. Mantids have two compound eyes similar to those of a fly or other object, two antennae pick up vibrations in the air, and vicious mandibles for the shredding and rending of their food. Mantids often wear harnesses and even some forms of clothing, but they rarely wear armor.

Minotaur
Minotaurs are a race of humanoids resembling a large Human with the head of a bull (or cow, for females of the species). As large as most Giantkin, Minotaurs stand well over 7 feet tall, and are quite broad and muscular. Unlike bovines, Minotaurs do not have a great diversity in their shaggy coat: their fur is brown to black while their hairless hide ranges through normal Human skin tones. For many Minotaurs, clothing is minimal, usually restricted to a loin cloth, light toga or skirt. Fierce and independent, Minotaurs are not considered bright or overly original in their thinking.

Ooloi
Ooloi are an aquatic race living in large bodies of water, with slick, bluish skin, webbed hands and feet and black, glassy eyes that are often considered expressionless. Two long tentacles grow from the back of their hairless scalps, and are treated with much the same reverence as Dwarves hold for their beards. Ooloi stand as tall as the typical Human and weigh around 100 pounds. Despite their frail appearance, Ooloi are deceptively strong and agile. Maturing a few years later than Humans, the Ooloi can live for over 150 years. As a species, the Ooloi are known for their religious devotion and frequent periods of contemplative meditation.

Orc
Orcs stand between six and seven feet tall and usually weigh between 180 and 250 pounds. They have greenish or jaundiced skin, jutting jaws, prominent teeth and coarse body hair. Due to their poor reputations, Orcs are often on poor terms with some of the other races. Orcs are drawn to violent careers suitable to their temperament and physical strength, such as mercenary work. They often find companionship among adventurers, many of whom are fellow wanderers and outsiders.

Quillback
Small slouching humanoids bearing a coat of sharp spines upon their scalp and the back of their torso, Quillbacks stand just under four feet in height and weigh around 80 pounds. Quillback spines and their underlying hides are typically shades of brown or grey, although occasionally they may be white. Somewhat slower than larger races, Quillbacks are more than capable of using their quills and claws to defend themselves from attack, and will even take the offensive if their family or communities are endangered.

Ratkin
Ratkin generally look like humanoid rats, roughly the size of a Human with a rat’s head and tail. Ratkin fur exhibits the same ranges of coloration as do rats and other rodents. As a species, Ratkin tend to form small tribes or bands, living in areas that other races avoid. In the cities, Ratkin congregate in slums or sewers. While Ratkin appreciate protective laws, they are unconvinced that the authorities have their interests at heart. In the wild, Ratkin form bands that follow more aggressive tribes, picking the scraps left over from vicious raids.

Rhinoc
Resembling muscular, broad-shouldered humanoid rhinos, the grey-skinned Rhinoc have a long history as mercenaries and soldiers. Carrying themselves with a militant demeanor, the Rhinoc possess a single horn upon their head which they use to gore their enemies on those rare occasions when they are caught without a weapon readily in hand.

Serpentfolk
The Serpentfolk of the "Integrated World" are a race of lithe snake-men representing a giant snake from the waist down and a human-like torso and upper arms that end in clawed hands. The Serpentfolk's head, however, resembles that of a snake, with a scaled hood similar to that of a cobra. Serpentfolk are completely covered with scales that are mottled green and yellow, with brown, black and red also appearing in some individuals. Their vicious bite is often poisonous.

Tarthani
Larger than Orcs, Tarthani are four-armed giantkin that stand between seven and eight feet tall, and weigh over 300 pounds. The range of their skin coloration covers the usual spectrum of earth tones, from a light tan to a deep grey in color. Although their thick brow ridge, broad jaws and clumsy gait suggests a primitive intellect, Giantkin are as intelligent as Humans.

Valefolk
In many ways, Valefolk closely resemble Humans except for being half the height. The majority of the Valefolk tends to live quiet lives in their homes within the rolling hills of temperate regions and, despite being well suited for the task of thievery, do not pursue a life of larceny. The Valefolk have a calm confidence and a surprising self-assurance that frequently causes these short humanoids to be underestimated by their foes, for they can be both quick and precise when they fight to protect those they hold as their own. Highly regarded for their compassion and innate knowledge of herbalism and midwifery, the Valefolk are widely known as healers. Those Valefolk that have become disenchanted with the sedentary ways of their people walk the earth as nomadic wanderers, traveling healers and seekers of fame and fortune.

Vanaran
The Vanarans are ape-like humanoids known for their bravery and inquisitive nature. Dwelling in subtropical and temperate forests, Vanarans stand about a head shorter than Humans, and weigh twenty to thirty pounds less. With a prehensile tail and nimble fingers and toes, Vanarans can climb very easily, and are at home as easily when swinging through the treetops as they are walking upon the ground.

Vulturan
The grey vulturine-headed humanoids known as the Vulturan can be found in many civilized ports around the world as slaves, workers, or mercenary guards. Reeking of the carrion that make up much of their diet, Vulturans are rarely welcome among polite social circles for their poor manners and even poorer hygiene; indeed, these beings are rarely welcomed by many outside of their own people.

Enjoy,
Flynn