The core rulebook and supplements comprising the third edition of the Exalted tabletop role-playing game offer a comprehensive guide to a world of epic fantasy and high-powered action. These resources detail the setting’s rich history, diverse cultures, and complex cosmology, while also providing the rules and mechanics necessary to create and play characters capable of legendary feats. Example content includes character creation guidelines, descriptions of supernatural powers and martial arts styles, lore regarding the Celestial Exalted and their adversaries, and guidance for Storytellers crafting compelling narratives.
This edition streamlined many of the game’s systems, making it more accessible to new players while retaining the depth and customization options appreciated by veterans. It offered a revised approach to character progression and magic, emphasizing dramatic storytelling and heroic achievements. Released over several years, the line expanded with numerous supplements exploring specific factions, regions, and character types, enriching the setting and providing players with even greater opportunities for customization and exploration.
This discussion will delve further into several key aspects of the game line, including a closer look at the mechanics, setting details, and notable supplements, offering a comprehensive overview for both newcomers and experienced players. Furthermore, the impact of this edition on the evolution of the Exalted setting and its continued relevance within the tabletop gaming community will be examined.
1. Core Rulebook
The Core Rulebook serves as the cornerstone of the Exalted third edition line, providing the essential foundation upon which all other books build. It establishes the core mechanics, setting details, and character creation guidelines, making it indispensable for both players and Storytellers. Understanding the Core Rulebook is crucial for navigating the world of Exalted and engaging with its rich narrative potential.
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Character Creation
This section details the process of creating player characters, outlining the various Exalted types (Solars, Lunars, Dragon-Blooded, etc.), their associated attributes, abilities, and Charms. It provides the framework for players to craft unique characters with distinct strengths, weaknesses, and motivations. Example character types include Dawn Castes (warriors), Zenith Castes (priests), and Twilight Castes (diplomats). The character creation system allows for a high degree of customization, enabling players to tailor their characters to specific playstyles and narrative roles.
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Setting Lore and Cosmology
The Core Rulebook establishes the setting of Creation, a vibrant world steeped in mythology and legend. It explores the history of the Exalted, their celestial patrons, and the intricate cosmology that governs the world. This information provides context for player actions and informs Storyteller world-building. For example, the lore surrounding the Great Contagion and the Usurpation shapes the political landscape and informs the motivations of various factions.
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Game Mechanics and Systems
This section outlines the core mechanics that govern gameplay, including dice rolling, combat resolution, social interactions, and the use of Charms. It provides the rules framework for resolving actions and determining outcomes, ensuring consistency and fairness. The mechanics emphasize dramatic storytelling and heroic action, allowing characters to perform impressive feats and overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles. An example is the use of the Storyteller System’s dice pools, where players roll a number of ten-sided dice and count successes based on set target numbers.
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Storytelling Guidance
The Core Rulebook offers advice and guidelines for Storytellers on crafting compelling narratives, managing player groups, and building engaging campaigns. It provides tools and techniques for developing storylines, creating memorable non-player characters, and pacing sessions effectively. This guidance empowers Storytellers to craft rich and dynamic experiences that cater to the interests and playstyles of their players. Examples include advice on structuring sessions, incorporating themes, and handling player conflicts.
These interconnected facets of the Core Rulebook provide the necessary tools and information for running and playing Exalted third edition. It acts as the primary reference point for all other supplemental books, ensuring a cohesive and consistent experience across the entire game line. A thorough understanding of the Core Rulebook is paramount for fully appreciating the depth and complexity of the Exalted setting and its narrative possibilities.
2. Setting Guides
Setting guides constitute a vital component of the Exalted third edition library, expanding upon the foundational lore established in the Core Rulebook. These supplements provide detailed explorations of specific regions, cultures, and historical periods within the world of Creation, enriching the game’s narrative potential and offering Storytellers a wealth of resources for crafting compelling campaigns. They transform broad concepts into tangible locations and societies, imbuing them with depth and complexity.
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Regional Exploration
Setting guides delve into specific geographical locations within Creation, detailing their unique environments, political landscapes, and cultural nuances. The Scavenger Lands, for example, explores a harsh and unforgiving region, detailing its warring tribes, treacherous terrain, and hidden secrets. These regional explorations provide Storytellers with ready-made settings for their campaigns, replete with opportunities for adventure and intrigue.
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Cultural Immersion
Beyond simple geographical descriptions, setting guides offer deep dives into the cultures that inhabit Creation. Compass of Celestial Directions: The Blessed Isle, for instance, explores the culture of the Realm, detailing its social hierarchies, religious practices, and artistic traditions. This cultural immersion allows players and Storytellers to engage with the setting on a deeper level, fostering a greater sense of verisimilitude and enriching role-playing opportunities.
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Historical Context
Several setting guides explore specific historical periods within Creation’s rich and complex past. Games of Divinity, for example, delves into the Time of Glory, an era of prosperity and power for the Exalted. Understanding the historical context of the setting provides valuable insights into current events and allows Storytellers to weave compelling narratives that connect the past to the present.
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Antagonist Organizations
Certain setting guides focus on specific antagonist organizations, detailing their motivations, resources, and internal dynamics. The Book of Bone and Ebony explores the Deathlords, powerful undead beings who pose a significant threat to Creation. Understanding these antagonist forces provides Storytellers with valuable tools for crafting engaging conflicts and challenges for their players.
Through these interconnected facets, setting guides significantly enhance the Exalted third edition experience. They provide a deeper understanding of Creation, allowing players and Storytellers to craft richer and more engaging narratives. These books move beyond the general overview presented in the Core Rulebook, offering a granular level of detail that transforms the setting from a backdrop into a living, breathing world.
3. Character Options
Character options represent a significant aspect of the Exalted third edition line, providing players with a wide array of choices for customizing and developing their characters beyond the basic framework established in the Core Rulebook. These supplements introduce new Exalted types, expand existing character classes, and offer additional Charms, spells, and abilities, enabling players to craft truly unique and specialized characters. This breadth of options contributes significantly to the game’s replayability and allows players to tailor their experiences to their individual preferences and playstyles.
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Expanded Character Types
Several supplements introduce entirely new Exalted types, each with unique powers, motivations, and roles within the setting. Manual of Exalted Power: Abyssals, for example, details the Abyssals, Exalted empowered by the ghosts of the Primordials and often serving as antagonists. These expansions broaden the scope of character creation, allowing players to explore different playstyles and moral perspectives.
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New Charms and Abilities
Character option books often introduce new Charms, spells, and other abilities for existing Exalted types, further specializing character builds and enabling new tactical possibilities in combat and social encounters. Scroll of the Monk, for instance, expands upon martial arts styles and techniques available to various character types. These additions enhance character customization and provide players with more tools to express their characters’ unique capabilities.
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Alternative Character Progression
Some supplements offer alternative systems for character progression, providing players with different paths for developing their characters over time. These alternatives might focus on specific themes or playstyles, such as crafting or social influence. Such options add depth to character development and cater to diverse player preferences.
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Detailed Backgrounds and Organizations
Certain character option books explore specific organizations or backgrounds within the setting, providing players with pre-designed frameworks for integrating their characters into the world. Books focusing on specific factions, such as the Guild or the Lintha family, offer detailed lore, unique abilities, and narrative hooks for characters associated with those groups.
The diverse range of character options available in the Exalted third edition line contributes significantly to the game’s longevity and appeal. These supplements empower players to craft highly personalized characters, explore different facets of the setting, and experiment with a variety of playstyles. This depth of customization ensures that each campaign feels distinct and offers players a continually evolving experience.
4. Antagonist Books
Antagonist books within the Exalted third edition line serve a crucial function, providing Storytellers with detailed information on the adversaries faced by player characters. These supplements move beyond the basic descriptions found in the Core Rulebook, offering in-depth explorations of various antagonist factions, their motivations, tactics, and resources. Understanding these adversaries is crucial for crafting compelling narratives and challenging players with engaging conflicts. These books offer a wealth of information, from individual character write-ups to overarching organizational structures, empowering Storytellers to create dynamic and memorable opposition.
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Motivations and Goals
Antagonist books delve into the underlying motivations and goals driving various factions and individuals. The Book of Bone and Ebony, for instance, explores the Deathlords’ desire to extinguish all life in Creation. Understanding these motivations allows Storytellers to portray antagonists as more than simple obstacles, transforming them into complex characters with their own agendas and desires. This depth adds nuance to conflicts and allows for more engaging role-playing opportunities.
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Tactics and Strategies
Beyond simply outlining motivations, antagonist books often detail the specific tactics and strategies employed by different factions. A supplement focusing on the Fair Folk might explore their penchant for trickery and manipulation, while one on the Wyld might detail its chaotic and unpredictable nature. This information empowers Storytellers to create more dynamic and challenging encounters, moving beyond simple combat scenarios to incorporate social maneuvering, psychological warfare, and environmental manipulation.
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Resources and Assets
Antagonist books often outline the resources and assets available to various factions, from armies and magical artifacts to political influence and economic power. The Manual of Exalted Power: Infernals, for instance, details the Infernals’ access to powerful demonic Charms and their ability to forge alliances with other antagonist groups. Understanding these resources allows Storytellers to accurately depict the threats posed by different factions and to create scenarios that feel both plausible and impactful.
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Internal Dynamics and Conflicts
Some antagonist books explore the internal dynamics and conflicts within specific factions. A book focusing on the Realm might detail the political struggles between different noble houses, while one on the Guild might explore the rivalries between different merchant families. This level of detail adds depth to antagonist organizations, portraying them as complex entities with internal struggles and competing agendas, rather than monolithic forces.
By providing this comprehensive understanding of antagonists, these supplements enhance the overall Exalted third edition experience. They empower Storytellers to craft more nuanced and engaging narratives, presenting players with challenges that extend beyond simple combat encounters. This depth of information transforms antagonists from static obstacles into dynamic forces within the game world, enriching both player and Storyteller experiences alike.
5. Storytelling Advice
Storytelling advice forms a crucial component of several Exalted third edition books, recognizing the game’s emphasis on narrative and the Storyteller’s role as a facilitator of collaborative storytelling. Unlike traditional tabletop games that focus primarily on combat and rules adherence, Exalted thrives on dynamic narratives, engaging characters, and epic scope. Therefore, providing Storytellers with effective tools and techniques becomes essential for realizing the game’s full potential. These resources offer practical guidance on various aspects of storytelling, from crafting compelling plots and developing memorable non-player characters to managing player expectations and adjudicating complex situations. For example, the Core Rulebook includes a chapter dedicated to storytelling, offering advice on pacing, theme, and incorporating player feedback. Furthermore, supplements like The Compass of Terrestrial Directions: The Scavenger Lands provide specific narrative hooks and story seeds tailored to individual regions within the game’s setting, enhancing the Storyteller’s ability to create engaging and immersive experiences.
The emphasis on storytelling advice stems from the inherent complexity of the Exalted setting and the game’s focus on player agency. Storytellers must navigate a world rich in lore, manage a cast of potentially powerful player characters, and adjudicate actions that can have far-reaching consequences. Effective storytelling advice helps Storytellers handle these complexities, ensuring that player choices feel meaningful and that the narrative remains engaging and coherent. Practical applications of this advice might include techniques for handling character death, resolving inter-party conflicts, or incorporating player backstories into the overarching narrative. Specific examples from Exalted’s published adventures, such as those found in Scroll of Heroes, can illustrate how these techniques are applied in practice, providing Storytellers with concrete models for crafting their own narratives.
In summary, the inclusion of storytelling advice within Exalted third edition books underscores the game’s fundamental focus on narrative as a driving force. By providing Storytellers with the necessary tools and techniques, these resources empower them to navigate the complexities of the setting, manage player expectations, and craft compelling narratives that capture the epic scope and dramatic potential of Exalted. This emphasis on storytelling ultimately enhances the game’s replayability, ensuring that each campaign offers a unique and memorable experience. A key challenge remains in balancing player agency with narrative coherence, but the provided advice equips Storytellers to address this challenge effectively, fostering a collaborative storytelling environment where both player choices and narrative development contribute to a satisfying and immersive gaming experience.
6. Revised Mechanics
A key feature of the Exalted third edition books is the revision and refinement of core game mechanics. These changes aimed to streamline gameplay, address ambiguities present in previous editions, and enhance the overall player experience. Understanding these revised mechanics is crucial for both players and Storytellers seeking to engage with this edition of the game. The revisions impact character creation, combat, social interactions, and magic use, shaping how players interact with the world of Creation.
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Streamlined Action Resolution
The third edition simplified the dice rolling system, emphasizing a more consistent and intuitive approach to action resolution. Instead of varying target numbers based on character attributes, a fixed target number of 7 on a ten-sided die became the standard. This change reduced complexity and allowed for quicker resolution of actions, promoting a faster-paced and more dynamic game flow. The streamlined system also facilitated easier integration of new players, removing a significant barrier to entry previously presented by the more intricate rulesets of earlier editions.
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Charm Revisions and Updates
Charms, supernatural abilities granted by Exaltation, underwent significant revision in the third edition. Changes included rebalancing existing Charms, introducing new Charms, and clarifying the mechanics governing their use. These revisions aimed to create a more balanced playing field, address power discrepancies between different Exalted types, and provide players with a wider range of tactical options. The updated Charm system offered greater flexibility in character customization and allowed for more nuanced expression of character abilities.
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Social Combat Mechanics
Social combat received specific attention in the third edition, with revised mechanics designed to make social encounters more engaging and impactful. The introduction of new social Charms and the refinement of existing rules provided players with more tools to influence NPCs and resolve social conflicts through means other than physical confrontation. This revision reflected the emphasis on narrative and role-playing inherent in Exalted, allowing players to achieve their goals through diplomacy, deception, or intimidation.
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Crafting and Sorcery Systems
The crafting and sorcery systems also underwent significant revisions, aiming to create more meaningful and rewarding player experiences. Crafting became more integrated into the core mechanics, allowing players to create powerful artifacts and customize their equipment. Similarly, the sorcery system was streamlined and expanded, offering greater flexibility and depth for characters specializing in magic. These changes provided players with more agency in shaping their characters and interacting with the world, encouraging creative problem-solving and strategic resource management.
These revised mechanics significantly impact how the game is played and experienced. They contribute to a more streamlined and dynamic game flow, offer greater character customization options, and emphasize the narrative and role-playing aspects of Exalted. Ultimately, these revisions represent a key element of the third edition, shaping its identity and differentiating it from previous iterations of the game. Understanding these changes is fundamental for appreciating the design philosophy behind the third edition and engaging with its unique gameplay experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the Exalted third edition game line, clarifying potential points of confusion and offering concise explanations for those seeking further information. The focus remains on providing objective and informative responses, avoiding subjective opinions or speculative interpretations.
Question 1: What distinguishes the third edition from previous editions of Exalted?
The third edition features revised and streamlined mechanics, including a simplified dice rolling system and updated Charms. It also offers a reorganized presentation of lore and setting information, aiming for greater clarity and accessibility. Furthermore, the third edition benefits from years of playtesting and community feedback, resulting in a more refined and balanced game experience.
Question 2: Where can one acquire the Exalted third edition books?
Physical copies of certain books may be available through online retailers or hobby game stores. DriveThruRPG.com provides digital versions of the core rulebook and many supplements. Availability may vary depending on the specific book and region.
Question 3: Is prior experience with Exalted necessary to enjoy the third edition?
While prior experience can enhance appreciation of the setting and lore, the third edition is designed to be accessible to new players. The Core Rulebook provides all the necessary information to start playing. Experienced players will find familiar concepts presented in a refined and updated format.
Question 4: How does character creation work in the third edition?
Character creation involves selecting an Exalted type (Solar, Lunar, Dragon-Blooded, etc.), distributing attribute points, choosing abilities, and selecting initial Charms. The Core Rulebook provides step-by-step instructions and numerous examples to guide players through the process.
Question 5: What resources are available for Storytellers seeking to create their own chronicles?
Numerous supplements offer detailed setting information, story seeds, and antagonist write-ups. The Core Rulebook also includes extensive advice on storytelling techniques, campaign management, and crafting compelling narratives within the Exalted setting.
Question 6: How is magic handled in the Exalted third edition?
Magic in Exalted is primarily expressed through Charms, supernatural abilities tied to each Exalted type. Sorcery, a more flexible but potentially dangerous form of magic, is also available. The mechanics governing both Charms and sorcery are detailed in the Core Rulebook and expanded upon in various supplements.
These responses provide a brief overview of common questions regarding the Exalted third edition game line. Consulting the Core Rulebook and other supplements will provide a more comprehensive understanding of the game’s mechanics, setting, and narrative possibilities.
This concludes the FAQ section. The following sections will delve deeper into specific aspects of the game line.
Tips for Exalted Third Edition
These tips offer guidance for both players and Storytellers engaging with the Exalted third edition game line. They focus on practical advice for enhancing gameplay, maximizing enjoyment, and navigating the intricacies of the setting and mechanics.
Tip 1: Embrace the Epic Scope: Exalted is a game of high-powered action and legendary deeds. Characters are capable of incredible feats, and chronicles often involve world-altering events. Embrace this epic scope and encourage bold actions and ambitious goals.
Tip 2: Collaborative Storytelling: Exalted thrives on collaborative storytelling. Players and Storytellers should work together to craft compelling narratives, ensuring that player choices have meaningful consequences and that the story reflects the contributions of everyone at the table.
Tip 3: Master the Mechanics: While narrative is paramount, understanding the underlying mechanics is crucial for smooth gameplay. Familiarize oneself with the dice rolling system, Charm mechanics, and other core rules to avoid interruptions and ensure consistent rulings.
Tip 4: Explore the Setting: Creation is a rich and diverse world with a deep history and complex cosmology. Take the time to explore the setting, delving into the lore of different regions, cultures, and factions. This exploration will enhance immersion and provide inspiration for character development and storytelling.
Tip 5: Develop Compelling Characters: Character development is key to a rewarding Exalted experience. Craft characters with rich backstories, clear motivations, and distinct personalities. Consider how their past experiences and aspirations influence their actions and interactions within the game world.
Tip 6: Utilize Supplemental Material: The Exalted third edition line includes numerous supplements that expand upon the core rules and setting. These supplements offer additional character options, detailed lore, and story seeds that can enrich chronicles and provide new avenues for exploration.
Tip 7: Tailor the Game to Your Group: Exalted is a highly adaptable game. Tailor the experience to the preferences and playstyles of your group. Whether focusing on political intrigue, high-octane combat, or personal character arcs, customize the game to create a unique and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
By heeding these tips, players and Storytellers can maximize their enjoyment of Exalted third edition and create truly memorable chronicles filled with epic adventures and compelling narratives. Focusing on collaboration, exploration, and a solid understanding of the game’s mechanics will pave the way for a rewarding and immersive tabletop role-playing experience.
These tips provide practical guidance for engaging with Exalted. The following conclusion summarizes the key takeaways and offers final thoughts on the game line’s significance.
Conclusion
This exploration of the Exalted third edition books has highlighted their comprehensive approach to presenting a complex and engaging tabletop role-playing game. From the revised mechanics streamlining gameplay to the wealth of lore enriching the setting of Creation, these resources provide players and Storytellers with the tools necessary to craft epic narratives and memorable characters. The numerous supplements expanding character options, detailing antagonist factions, and offering storytelling advice contribute to a dynamic and adaptable game system. The core rulebook acts as a solid foundation, while setting guides and character option books build upon this base, providing depth and complexity. The focus on storytelling advice empowers Storytellers to create immersive chronicles tailored to their players’ preferences.
The Exalted third edition books represent a significant contribution to the tabletop role-playing landscape. Their detailed setting, dynamic mechanics, and emphasis on narrative create a unique and engaging experience. The depth of lore and breadth of character options ensure lasting replayability, offering a constantly evolving world ripe for exploration. One’s engagement with these resources offers the potential to unlock a wealth of storytelling possibilities, limited only by the imagination. The legacy of these books lies in their ability to empower individuals to craft their own legends within the vibrant world of Creation.
