Games Books

I can't recommend this setting enough. Written by two Giants in the RPG industry, the creativity & skill in this book is unparalleled. If you have any interest in the paranormal at all, it's worth it.

I must add that this is a GM only book. Players SHOULD NOT read this.

Monty Cook and Wolfgang Baur surely have MIB's knocking on their doors since this amazing game touches on so many important conspiracies, aliens, government plots, and secret agendas. If you are a fan of X-Files, Millenium, or anything paranormal, this is the game for you. Yes, it's set in the now dead Alternity setting (the d20 system's beta test), but the world is so rich and well researched, it can easily be applied to a D20 modern setting.
The creatures, NPC's, government groups, timelines, and zeitgeist make for a truly unique gaming world. And it all ties together. The explanation of how Dark Matter makes all magic, science, and alien beings come to Earth is creative and a cover all for everything a DM can imagine. Everything from mummies and sasquaches to gray aliens, men in black, and bering demons all exist with beautiful justification.
I've gamed for over 20 years, and this setting(mixed with d20 Modern rules if you can't get Alternity) is the best I've ever seen. Buy it now before it's gone forever--even if you don't role play, the research into the secret things around and beneath us is so accurate and thorough, you could teach a class from this source. In fact, I teach a college course on the paranormal and unexplained, and I've had to turn to this book for clarification on a few real-world dates.
A fantastic source, and I hope the rumors are true that Wizards is considering a d20 Modern remake of the setting. Cross your fingers...

I was heartbroken to learn that Alternity has been cancelled by TSR, and my heartbreak was compounded once I got my hands on Dark Matter. If you are a fan of any government conspiracy, unmarked helicopter, alien abduction, bigfoot type realms, this is the campaign for you. If you aren't a fan, you will be after you read it. I'm a regular conspiracy nut, and all the biggies are covered by Baur and Cook; their research was fantastic. Also, everything from vampires to greys and sasquatches and mummies are present, and they tie into the conspiracies beautifully! If you don't buy this one, you're missing out on one of the RPG finds of a lifetime. Well done to Baur adn Cook, poorly done to TSR for the cancelation. Get it while you still can...

Who should buy this book?

If you are a fan of Science Fiction and plan to GM a science fiction game then you will find a lot of benefit from reading this book. If you are a player then DO NOT BUY THIS BOOK unless you are buying it for your GM, in which case DO NOT READ THIS BOOK. Inside are a million and one ideas for a Sci-fi game which will delight, intrigue, and possibly even frighten your players.

So what does it contain?

Lots and lots of detail is what. Ignoring the Alternity Fast Play rules for now and the small section on creating Dark Matter characters, the book is filled with descriptions, from the Hoffman Institute to loads of different conspiracies to the secret history of the world.

What else do you need?

The fast play rules are not adequate for a full camapign so the Alternity Players Guide and Gamesmaster Guide are probably essential. Otherwise all you need is your imagination (whatching the X-files, the outer limits, and Buffy the Vampire Slayer may help stimulate your imagination if decades of excellent science fiction hasn't).

Downsides?

As with any product this one isnt perfect, it assumes that the Hoffman Institute will play a part in your campaign (it does provide a small section on alternatives, though IMO the Institute is so well detailed that it would be shame not to use it in some capacity). It is also a little light on rules (though remember it is a Sourcebook rather than a Rulebook).

In Conclusion.

If you are getting tired of Fantasy or far future rpg's then this game might make a welcome change, and if played right can be a real pleasure to play. Dark Matter IMO might just be the saviour of the Alternity system (which is good news because the Alternity system is damn good).

Dark Matter takes place in the early 2000's AD Earth. It is a unique setting focusing on investigation, intrigue, and conspiracies rather than just gun fights.

This book is a great resource--from the Freemasons to the United Nations "New World Order", virtually any conspiracy or paranormal activity you can think of is probably described in this book.

It is also well organized including a good fast play adventure to introduce the setting, and a second, slighly longer, adventure at the end to get GM and players in the proper (and paranoid) mood. It includes some new skills, perks, flaws, psionics, and arcane and faith magic in addition to the great deal of history.

This book adds more to mix than found in the earlier Delta Green Book and will expand the RPG experience further. I would highly recommend buying this book after getting the core book for Delta Green. Expands the conspiracies outside of the United States in both enemies and allies. Much more disturbing than the groups in the original Delta Green book and adds different plot angles. Very well written and compelling. A must have the Delta Green enthusiast

This product is awesome, but i don't receive form amazon, i buy from others sellers because the delay of order.

This order be canceled.

If Delta Green is the Best RPG suppliment ever, then this is Number 2. You get more bang for the buck out of this book for $40 than you do in 4 $20 books. It's very well written and is a great read as well. It is how a RPG SHOULD be written.
If you're a Call of Cthulhu gamer, then this book is a MUST! If you like horror, X-Files, etc...then check it out.

If you already have Delta Green, Countdown should be your next purchase (if you don't have Delta Green, BUY IT!!!). Countdown adds write-ups for PISCES (Britain), GRU SV-8 (Russia), The Skoptsi, The Outlook Group, Phenomen-X, Keepers of the Faith (Ghouls), and a new look at The Hastur Mythos. Add rules for the Gift (Psychic Powers) and international templates from all over the world and you have a book that would be cheap at twice the price!!

Pagan Publishing has done it again!!!

Well worth the seemingly hefty price. In addition to containing source material that benefits *any* modern-day game (e.g. details on international law-enforcement agencies), it includes expansions on things alluded to in the main Delta Green book, such as the Army of the Third Eye, and new icky horrors like the Skoptsi.

There is also wonderful information on ghoul society and on the "King in Yellow"/Hastur mythos, concluding with "Night Floors," which is in my opinion one of the best damn adventures ever written.

The little one had a few others from this series and he likes this one just as much as the others. It's great.

I bought this book and another in the Things That Go Board Books series for my grandsons, 1 & 3. They seem to love the photos & ignore the text. The book lives in their car & is the perfect size for one or the other to read while traveling. This book is perfect for kids who love construction vehicles!

My truck loving 2 year old loved this book. He did manage to break it fairly soon, being a board book, but he still loves it.

My son is only 2 years old but he loves trucks. This is the perfect book for your son or daugther if they love trucks, too.
The pictures are real-life and the text provides informative information about each type of truck, with the correct name(s). I would recommend this book to any caregiver who has a child who loves trucks and anything that digs and moves!

My just 2 year old loves this book! It is easy for him to carry while he is on the go - and it goes everywhere!! He loves trucks and this is great for him!

I found this to be the best book to improve bridge for an intermediate player. I've read it four times and learned from each chapter each time. Since one plays defense on half the hands, it provides the best time investment to improve one's bridge play. It is also an entertianing read. I have recommended it to the bridge players I mentor.

Kantar is exceptionally readable, with a sense of humor which makes a difficult subject enjoyable. He goes through much material, but quite thoroughly and clearly. It's a book that needs to be studied - not merely read - but a good student will gain enormously from Kantar's work.

Kantar today is more noted as a bridge instructor than a bridge player. But one must remember that he is both and his latest book demonstrated both the instructional and practical sides. It is (as usual) clear, concise and ro the point. I like Kantar's prose, his ease of explanation and the way he sets just the right tone. Of course, he discusses the bid, the opponent and, most important, keeping track of the play while counting the cards (the one thing that separates the professional from the amateur). Good book with tons of examples.

This is a great book on defense, because Kantar covers almost every intermediate situation comprehensively and give you black and white rules for every situation. He doesn't in this book consider varied leading/signalling conventions but just gives one way to play, but that's fine as he explains his method clearly and shows why he recommends everything he does. I'd recommend it to every player.

The book focuses on leads, signals (Attitude, Count, Suit Preference), and how to card (what card to play in 2nd or 3rd spot), rather than general defensive principles.

The content is excellent, well presented (humorous!!), and best of all, has lots of quizzes. None of this skimming a section and figuring you know it, the quiz will let you find out for certain.

2 warnings:

1) make sure your partner is using the same techniques, otherwise you may get worse results. Its not that the ideas in the book are radical, they are mainstream. But if pard doesn't understand your signal, they may do something weird and you will be worse off.

2) The book is a bit technical (5 situations where this is a suit preference signal. If Dummy wins with a Q then signal count, otherwise ... If you can see the X in dummy then pard will know to do this, else that, etc.
You will need to reread it several times, and probably make notes.

VALUABLE STUFF, but ONLY as part of a partnership that understands each other.

Uncage Faces of Sigil is my Personal fav of the 3 Sigil Books but for a DM running Sigil this is the must have book. I really like the art work and the way the book is written. Gives the DM every thing you need to run a good Campain in the city of doors.

Its an excelent book for players and DMs, there are complete and interesant descriptions of every faction in sigil, and it makes every player to understand the ideology of his faction, i recomend to read the interviews with the factols they are excelent.

This is one of the golden books of Planescape. The descriptions of the factions, the factols and their activities are great. Much cheaper than the other Planescape books (being 160 pages). It's filled with full-color art by DiTerlizzi and has everything you need for the low-down on the Factions. I don't think I'll keep talking about this book, just get it. You won't be dissappointed.

This book expands upon the factions so much from the box set. Besides DM stuff like stats for the factols and other important factioneers, it gives tips for roleplaying and excellent detail on the philosphies. Because the factions are central to the entire Planescape feel, it is extremely important to know them well. Even if your campaign has already been through Faction War (as mine has) I would definitely suggest buying this. It is perfect for bringing up past events and seeing what the future holds for these philosophers with clubs.

I just started reading this book yesterday and it is the best planescape accessory out there. Ever wondered just who the Factols are and what they act like? Is one of your characters having trouble playing a dustman? Want to visit the shattered temple but don't know whats there? Ever wondered where the Sighners came from anyway? Just how should those bleaker NPCs act? How do I join the anarchists? Or maybe you just want expanded faction abilities or want to know the personal plans of one of the factions. All these things and more are included in the Factols Manifesto. Along with a huge collection of great art that you won't find anywhere else including maps of each faction headquarters and a portrait of each factol! Bottom line this is a must buy. If you're a DM and don't have this book yet shame on you!

This book had a lot of really wonderful ideas, however, most of the crafts are for older children and my party was for 6 year olds and younger. I made the fairy braclets for the girls myself as it was a little time consuming. For kids 8+ this is a wonderful book with some really cute ideas.

for all who love fairies or crafts, this is a perfect book. Great ideas, wonderful processes and beautiful products!

I bought two copies, one for my 9 yr old daughter and one for her friend. They love it and have had the most fun with these creations. I do recommend a little adult help and guidance with the different crafts.

I bought this book, along with Sweet Pea's Garden: Special Things to Make and Do ~ A Flower Fairies Friends Book & How to Host a Flower Fairy Tea Party, to help me with my daughter's fairy birthday party. The crafts are exquisite as well as resonably easy to do. Most items can be easily found around the house or your nearest craft store. I love the crafts in both this and Sweet Pea's Garden. Both books are easy to do although I think Sweet Pea works best for our smaller fairies while this book would be perfect for an upscale girls tea party. I loved the little stories and the illustrations that were woven through the book. The only thing that dissapointed me was that there weren't any recipes. If there had been three or four little recipes that would have rounded out the book perfectly. I fell in love with the little cake in the picture of the table setting at the beginning of chapter three. The crafts included invitations, bookmarks, wings, skirts, fairy dolls with a fairy land playground, jewelry, etc. My favorite crafts were the playground and the blooming tableware. Both were made to decorate my daughters table and they were absolutely beautiful. This made for a magical day. Oh, and there are instructions for a Violet Choker by Heidi Boyd at the DIY website.

We used this little book as the basis for a flower fairy birthday party for a six year old, and it was a huge success, and considerably less expensive than renting Little Gym or another insitutional party place.

We made several decorations and the gorgeous flower fairy wands.

All of the projects would probably require adult assistance for a child under 10, but they are really lovely and worth any effort.

Tim Rasinski has successfully married theory and practice with this easy read, and included forms, resources and practical ideas that can be integrated into the classroom immediately. We purchased them for several teachers in the district so that they can get the strategies to students without delay. Strongly recommend this resource to others!

I ordered two copies. They arrived quickly and in great shape. Thank you.

This book is an excellent resource if you are teaching reading at any level. It is researched based and provides concrete, practical teaching tips.

The book was given to me by my principal and after reading the first chapter I gave it back so I could buy my own. This is a book every elementary teacher should own and refer to on a regular basis. It has enough theory to it to support its findings without slowing down the reading. Most of the book has practical suggestions and methods to use in the classroom. I have been so motivated by this book that I have completely changed the way I am teaching reading in my 4th grade classroom.

Very practical for teachers but at the same time is research-based.

This book is one of a kind. I've looked at various travel books through the years, and usually have to buy one if I'm going to a part of the country I haven't visited before. Susan Kraus' book is simply amazing, in that it provides information on all the top Big 12 towns that is not available in other guide books, Plus, it highlights locally owned businesses. This is important to me because I like to mingle with local folks when I travel. If you are a sports fan and go to games, or if you're like me and just like to travel to cities in TX and surrounding states, this book will provide you with anything you'll need to know.

Susan Kraus provides all you need to know to have a great time in the college towns of the Big 12: where to eat and where to stay, what to do and what to see. She ignores the over-publicized "chain bracelet" stops in favor of what is locally owned and grown. Kraus has written an energetic, fun, fact-filled travel guide well worth the sticker price. Read and travel!

I live in Topeka, and know many of the Big 12 towns. But I have consulted Kraus' book before trips and found that Susan Kraus has discovered more than I have about where to eat and what to do in these great college towns. Whether you're attending a sporting event, or just traveling through, Game Day Guide is a great resource. Really, the book is an "any day" guide to the best the Big 12 towns have to offer.

This book helps me and my husband make decisions on where we want to eat, drink, explore and budget for when we are at home in Lawrence, KS, or traveling. These are the places full of local flavor and local drinks. Susan Kraus gives some sound advice on shopping, lodging and recreation, and some of her comments are quite witty. Good read. Good practical guide for residents of towns of the Big 12 and athletic fans. Pick it up you'll find something in there for you, including chapters on each of the universities of the Big 12 Conference.

This book provided me with very useful and unique information about Norman that I could not find from any other sources. A Game Day Guide To Towns of the Big 12 is incredibly well thought out and provides you with exactly the information you would want to know when visiting a town in which you are not familiar. It caters to all ages and interests as I was looking for restaurants and nightlife and my mother was interested in the description and historical background of OU. I would recommend this book to friends and families and sports fans alike!

Those who want to learn about hockey - and not just what Alan Eagleson did to it - should run, not walk, to buy this book.
Conway's book is superb, and his work on Eagleson made him a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize.
It's a must-read for any sports writer, too. It's like having an "Investigative Journalism 101" class taught to you, and for a fraction of the money you'd pay at a university.

This is the most interesting book I have ever read. I studied it to do an oral presentation for Grade 9 English class a few years ago and was so intrigured by the Alan Eagleson story that, now in my first year of University, I am pursuing a career very similar to that of Alan Eagleson...one in which I would essentially deal with the business side of the NHL where I would love to make some sort of a positive influence, as Eagleson did. However, Alan Eagleson's corruption, which is described in this book, is an excellent example of how one person can cause a negative influence on many people's lives through illegitimacy and how public opinion of that person can change almost instantly as a result. Russ Conway did an excellent job of investigating Alan Eagleson, and his book is a wonderful summary of his work. I would recommend this book to anybody, whether they are a hockey fan or not.

Russ Conway has written a wonderful investigative piece about a man who is truly a disgraceful figure in the history of Canadian hockey. Russ brings forth, with his own agressive style, the wicked ways of a man who calling a crook is an understatement. First, he never backed down to get his answers and his writing is first-rate. Anyone who follows hockey should read about a man who almost destroyed it.

All hockey fans owe Russ Conway a debt of gratitude for helping rid hockey of the parasite Alan Eagleson. He documents Eagleson's criminal and disgusting behaviour in great detail, helping fans to better understand what hockey players faced in the past, the necessary background information for many of the issues facing pro hockey today. I haven't read such a gripping book since "Net Worth". Eagleson will be back in the courts again before long, no doubt willing to lie about the charges being brought forward by a number of retired hockey players. Read this book and you'll see that the players have justice on their team.

This is one of the most important sports books ever written. Through his exhaustive work, Russ Conway exposes the greed, corruption and financial swindling that plagued the NHL throughout Alan Eagelson's reign of terror and the financial and emotional price that so many players faced. Most importantly, Conway's work served as the catalyst for Mr. Eagleson's downfall and proving many player's assertions of corruption. Put simply, this is an important piece of journalism that every fan of sports should read, whether you are a hockey fan or not.

This book is not only about a golfers struggles with his game but also his focus in life. The book takes a professional golfer through his golf swing and the teacher helps in understand the golf swing rather than make him a mechanical golfer. This is important because the more a golfer can understand the golf swing the better he/she can adapt during the course of a round of golf. The last part of the book discusses the importance aspects of ones life which have nothing to do with golf. I plan to purchase this book for several friends that need to hear the message. The only issue I had was at the end I felt like I was being "sold" to by the author. Read this book and it will have a positive impact on your life.

Are you a golfer or do you just enjoy watching? Are you a fisherman? Are you a Christian or do you have an interest in spirituality? Would you like to talk to a friend about your beliefs but do not feel that you are qualified, or you just do not have the confidence to do so.

Give them this book but first read it yourself. A truly thought provoking and straight forward story that prompts you to close it up on occasion and say "I got it!".

Bet you can't buy just one!Golf's Sacred Journey: Seven Days at the Links of Utopia

This is one of the best books I've ever read! The story is entertaining and provides tools for golf and life. I highly recommend this book. I usually don't read books more than once and I've found myself reading this book more than once and each time finding new lessons!

This is an awesome book for any golfer at any level of play. I found this to be an interesting format (a novel) to give vital information on improving a person's golf game. A good read and one that you should pass to a friend or relative! They'll thank you. It's helped me think differently and relax when I play. I'm sure it will improve my scores.

This is my all time favorite book about golf - and life! I have read this book numerous times, and have recently shared it with my two children ages 8 and 12 who are junior golfers. On the surface, Golf's Sacred Journey is a story of an aspiring golfer dealing with the insecurities, frustrations, and failures of trying to make it as a professional golfer. But the deeper message in the book is how we travel through life, and how we touch others is the true measure of success. You can tell the true character of a person more by how they deal with adversity, challenges and failures, than by their golf score.

Each chapter is a lesson about life, and Dr. Cook uses the metaphor of golf to clearly illustrate how our decisions and convictions have brought us to the place we now reside. Patience, humility, forgiveness, and love will help us all to have a rich and rewarding life, and will also help us with our golf games. Plan and visualize your life's journey, practice patience and balance, and hold on to truth and tradition and you will live your greatest dreams.

See it, feel it, trust it!