The Basics:

This overview gives you enough of the fundamentals to get a feel for how the Ground Zero role-playing game works. It is intended for players who are new to the d20 system or who have never gotten into an RPG before. (A lot of the text is copied from the intro to d20 Modern.)

If you've played any d20 game already, you can skip all this. Just check out the Homebrew Rules page to see what's different compared to d20 Modern.

Remember: You don't have to memorize all to rules to play the game. You can always look up an obscure rule, but you don't have to sweat the details as a player.

• What is an RPG?
• What is a PBeM?
• What is Ground Zero?

• The d20 Core Mechanic
• Rolling Dice
• Rounding
• Multiplying
• The "Stock Human Standard"

• Player Characters
• Attributes
• Genotype
• Background
• Mutations
• Character Class
• Character Level
• Skills & Talents

• Gameplay Fundamentals
• Skill Checks
• Attribute Checks
• Attack Rolls
• Hit Points
• Saving Throws

• Combat Essentials

• The Combat Round
• Attack Actions
• Move Actions
• Full-Round Actions
• Free Actions
• Reactions

If you're new to roleplaying games, you might be wondering how to proceed. After you've read over the basics, check out some of the archived adventures, such as the Cave of Life or Skeleton Base. They provide some insight into how an RPG plays out (but note that they may use old versions of the Ground Zero rules). Check out the current campaigns for any openings, then review the character creation rules. When you're ready, contact me (e-mail K-Slacker) to join.

Back to: Ground Zero Main Page...