From: Harald Smith 617 726-2172 (SMITHH@A1.MGH.HARVARD.EDU)
Date: Fri 05 Aug 1994 - 11:03:00 EEST
Hi all--
RoC is a mixture: part background, part cults, part lengthy scenario. While I confess that I like the scenario, I can see your point. So where to go to get the "feel" you're looking for.
GoG provides a lot of information about a range of cults, but without much of the detailed background material. You probably have enough in RoC for what you're doing--this is probably better if you're moving the characters off to other areas and need brief descriptions of a range of gods.
Genertela gives you a big picture view--all of the northern continent with losts of brief background. It provides, I think, a good overview to a lot of the wonder in Glorantha. Do you need it now--well, I might suggest looking at a couple of other products first.
Are you starting a campaign? Trying to get into the feel as a player? The answers might suggest different pieces to look at.
In the RoC area, I would suggest Sun County, particularly, or Strangers in Prax (if you are GMing) as offering more of the depth and feel that it sounds like you are looking for. Sun County delves into the entire Yelmalian community near Pavis and the scenarios are not your treasure seeking/kill monsters types.
If you want a pack that gives some good mythical/historical background and an in-depth look at a Gloranthan culture--try TrollPack and its companion module, Into the Troll Realms. These are not monster bashing, but provide an up close and very personal look at a unique Gloranthan species. They are also not that far from Pavis so you could link the ideas from RoC into them. I think many people would rate Trollpack as the best Gloranthan pack produced.
Given your reaction to RoC, I would probably steer away from Dorastor or Shadows on the Borderland, though the latter includes the excellent scenario, Gaumata's Vision, which may be along the lines of material you are seeking.
You might also get copies of the two issues of Codex (a fanzine) from Mike Dawson. The first has a lot of good background on Pavis that I think would appeal. The second moves off to the northwestern land of Fronela, but is also rich in background material.
Hope this helps.
--Harald
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