By Alan "Psion" Kohler (repost from ENWorld), July 02, 2002.
Mansions and Manors is a software download product from Darkfuries
available at RPGnow (www.rpgnow.com.) The product is similar to prior
Darkfuries map products in that it provides a selection floorplans for
use in fantasy games at a price of $5.00 US, and the maps are gridded out
in 5' squares convenient for d20 system gaming.
However, Mansions and Manors is the first such product to actually
bear a d20 system logo. The product includes a number of NPC personalities
(2 or more for each map) complete with d20 system statistics.
Brian K. Moseley proves that he is the sort of designer that listens to feedback
well. In reviews of prior Darkfuries products, I commented that the maps were not
perfectly suitable for tabletop use, as many of them showed off the positions of
hidden compartments and secret doors. To this end, Mansions and Manors has multiple
copies of any maps with "hidden" features. There is a GM map with complete information,
and a players' map with any such features edited out. This is an extremely convenient feature.
As well, there is both a black and white and a color version of each map, allowing
the GM a deal of flexibility in printing options. Each map is detailed with features
such as doors and other fixtures, barrels, furniture, and other features.
In all, seven Mansions/Manors are described. The manors range for a three level
country manor (2 levels plus a basement) to an extravagent six level mansion. As
mentioned each manor has 2 or more personalities statted out in d20 system statistics.
Many of them are simple commoners, but some manors host aristocrats, rogues, wizards,
and blackguards. The statistics seem properly done, and can be used as the basis for
an off-the-cuff adventure or a start point or adjunct for one of your own adventures.
Conclusion
Mansions and Manors is a very convenient and affordable solution for GMs who
like nice maps, but who like to make their own adventures and situations. The addition
of d20 system statistics, provision of both B&W and color maps, and player versions
of maps with ommited details all show that this series is providing additional sparkle
and value for the dollar.
-Alan D. Kohler
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