We are pleased to announce that we have just released version 0.6 of the Novus Open Beta. You can now go to your RPGNow or DriveThruRPG account and re-download the file to get the latest version.

This update contains a number of fixes and corrections,to a number of different areas. Below is a partial list of those many changes and corrections:

Character Classes

We have revamped the way that they look so that they are easier to understand and so that the abilities are more clearly stated.

Defense (DEF)

We removed the level dependency and changed it over to being based on your skill ranks with your best melee weapon skill.

Spell Points

We removed the Spell Points per level and made it based on the type of Adept you are and your ranks in your Spellcasting skill.

Hit Points

We removed the Hit Points per level and made it so that you actually have more Hit Points starting out than previously. We also added racial maximums (which are then adjusted by Strength and Constitution Stat Values) so that there isn't an ever-increasing number of Hit Points.

Saving Throws

We have removed the level modifier from Saving Throws and replaced it with a static modifier. This makes Saving Throws more balanced overall.

Reduced Level Dependency

The overall effect of the above 4 changes is a reduced dependency on levels. This makes it very easy for a GM who doesn't like levels to remove them from the game, while at the same time, retaining them for those GMs who like the structure of levels.

Fate Points

We have removed the limit on the number of Fate Points that a character may have, but also put in a limit on how many may be used at a single time. We have also made Fate Points a bit more versatile overall.

Talents

We have added several new Talents based on several of the changes made above (i.e. Talents for gaining Hit Points, for increasing Saving Throw modifiers, etc..)

Combat (Special Situations)

We have added several new entries to the Special Situations section of the Combat chapter. These include Disengaging from Melee, Opportunity Attacks, and Zones of Combat. These allow for more possibilities overall.

Spells

All spells that require Saving Throws now have the TN of the Save listed in their stat blocks so you don't have to figure it on the fly.

Familiars

You choices for a Familiar have been greatly expanded, and so have the benefits of having a Familiar. We have also made it possible for Nature Spirits to become Familiars as well.

Essential Salts

This is a new addition. This substance can substitute for Spell Points, and is also the basis of almost all alchemical processes. We have also expanded the Herbal Elixers in the Treasures section to provide you with the information and rules needed for your characters to be able to make them on their own while adventuring

Character Sheet

We have also updated the Character Sheet to reflect the changes. You may also pick up a blank Character Sheet PDF from the Downloads section of the Firehawk Games website. That covers the vast majority of the changes. So swing on by and pick up the most recent version. I am sure that you will not regret it.