“People vs. Creatures” can make “normal people” or “adventurous people.” Adventurous people get 2 occupational talents and 5 wounds at generation. Normal people are less competent…
- Beginning characters get 1 occupational talent.
- Beginning characters have 1 wound.
Level 2. When a character has spent 12 Morale Points, then the character goes to level 2 and gains +1 wound in addition to a talent and +1 to an attribute.
Level 3. When a character reaches level 3, the character has 5 wounds, in addition to another talent and +1 to an attribute.
DMs can choose which kind of character they want people to play for their scenario; it is probably best if people all make the same type. Why mix and match? If you have civilians with soldiers, or tough guys rescue normal people, or whatever, it may be good to have a mix.
By having characters start as minions at first level, guards at second level, and characters at third level (in parent game “Old School Hack” terms), you really motivate them to get and spend those Morale Points. Also, you thin the herd; as the clever or tougher ones survive to get more wounds, they tower above their peers. By third level they are five times as tough as they were. Which is a pretty cool (and seemingly accurate) curve in a survival horror game.
Plus, it’s fun. Don’t forget the fun.
For examples of normal people, I would think of Ellen Ripley (Alien series), Ash (Evil Dead series), characters from Frighteners, Tremors, Resident Evil, Silent Hill, and Laurie Strode (Halloween).
For examples of adventurous people, I’d suggest soldiers (from Aliens movies, Predator movies, etc.), Seven, and X-Files.
I want this system to be flexible enough to handle investigators, soldiers, or housewives… Whatever story you want to tell.
The Progression:
Level 1.
Level 2.
Level 3.
Level 4.
