Dungeons For Dummies

 Published by: CX-X Canik

Written by: CX-X Shnuffles, CT Goddest

Pictures found by: CT Shifty

Introduction

With the week’s cycle of Operations, FTX’s, and squad trainings coming to a close, many of the Legion’s troopers are faced with long stretches of time away from battle. During this time, a variety of groups within the community thrive in the channels both above and below Task Force Radio. From Siege to Stellaris, and Minecraft to Skribbl.io, one could descend into a seemingly endless night of games to occupy themselves with. However one community stands out from the rest with respect to both size and the diversity of the groups it's comprised of.

Dungeons & Dragons fans have saturated the gaming communities of the Web since it’s creation. Even the Legion resides within the D&D community’s influence with many groups found throughout the unit’s ranks. With the community still expanding, the News Team has decided to take an in-depth look into both the board game and its numerous followers.

What Is Dungeons & Dragons?

Dungeons & Dragons, or “D&D” is a roleplaying game with an easily interchangeable and adaptable rule system to fit the needs of its players. Its success in the game industry can be attributed to a distinguishing characteristic of its platform. Where a majority of traditional games have overarching stories and characters fabricated for a player to navigate throughout an on-the-rails experience, Dungeons & Dragons pits the players’ minds to the test, inviting them to envision and create a character from the ground up in a sense. This ranges from race, class, occupation, morals, and traits. Even a character’s allegiances or alignment are all left up to the player’s desire, giving an enormous range of freedom and diversity for every D&D session. The number of variations between each session can lead to completely different experiences from game to game. 

Additionally, the pre-fabricated story is not necessarily waiting for its players in Dungeons & Dragons, instead the adventure is left to a Dungeon Master, or DM. The Dungeon Master is not only responsible for refereeing the D&D session for all the players, but also accounts for the storytelling aspect of the player’s adventure. A great deal of their time is spent on immersing players into a fantasy world through depicting expansive environments sprawling with diverse scenery. Coupled with this, the DM is also tasked with playing the role of numerous inhabitants of the ingame world. Every inhabitant or “NPC” that players will come across will be essentially “puppeteered” by the DM. Once contact has been made, players can interact with the same environment that the Dungeon Master has established, allowing them to solve conflicts through either violent or peaceful means. All of this being done with the option of players forming parties and gaining experience to level their characters up and gradually become stronger with every session.

T Time

Quotes provided from interviews with Sr. Corporal Tee and Trooper Teacup

Interviewer

Would you say that Dungeons & Dragons has an enriching factor / benefit to the 501st?

Teacup

I think so … We are a group of really close friends, you can say it’s almost like a brotherhood of sorts. You’re not just dawning a helmet and blaster to go start tackling droids like we do during our operations, you’re taking your friends into a tailor-made adventure full of new and exciting experiences.

Tee

Being a community that’s quite literally rooted in Star Wars, I’m able to offer my group their own homemade “Star Wars Story”. The game gives players the freedom to experience characters’ stories and allow them to leave a small or large impact on the world that they’re introduced to. Players will commonly end their own character’s story in order to create a new one - willingly. This same tendency prevents players from being locked into a character’s tale that may end abruptly or leave them unable to be apart of the group’s party, instead opening a new avenue to players and giving a sense of both development and completion to everyone’s characters.

Interviewer

While many friendships develop from games, is D&D one of those games? A game where one can make friends basically.

Teacup

Absolutely. Some of my best friends in the community feel like brothers to me now. Many of whom I never knew when I was first introduced to Dungeons and Dragons. My brother worked with them and one day he invited me to play as well, I agreed, a decision I wouldn’t regret. That was seven or eight years ago, sometime in between then I actually moved in with some of those same friends when my life reached a really hard point. Despite my own hardships, they were there for me when life seemed to bottom out from under me. D&D builds new relationships, strengthens already existing ones, and can connect you with new people that you might’ve never met had you not chosen to spend time with them.

Interviewer

  Just to wrap things up, we’ve gone through most of these questions and interviews with people who’ve already played and experienced Dungeons and Dragons, to those who haven’t though - Should they try it?

Tee

Honestly, give it a shot. Any Star Wars fan who's seen some of the newer movies that have come out in recent years like Rogue One and The Last Jedi have seen the adventures unfold with the characters interacting with the bigger parts of the universes they reside in. You could even connect the new Mandalorian series with D&D, it’s basically giving players a new “unique” story in the Star Wars universe.

And to add on to that - When you try it out, don’t let your experience be hindered by just your first one. Because the first character you try to make will reflect your own traits. It’s the second character that will involve more creativity and risk taking. Be a little more creative, the unit [501st] couldn’t succeed on its own without a touch of creativity.

Teacup

100 Percent. The game itself has driven players to kick start thought processes in their brains that normally wouldn’t occur, challenging them to become both creative and problem solvers over the course of a playthrough. Furthermore, with the level of interaction between players achieved through role playing we’re able to help others go above and beyond their own comfort zones. This comes in handy when playing a character that may be vastly different in comparison to how you normally are. This same acting element carries over into any other environment whether it be on stage or in game when one is called upon to depict a vastly different persona.

As The Dice Fall

As we’ve seen through two different interviews with members of the unit, DnD brings people together and keeps our community together when not in the servers. So if you prefer the hard hitting Warrior or the sneaky thief Rogue, or the mystical Sorcerer, there is sure to be a play style for you. With plenty of resources to start your own campaigns or plenty of people willing to play, in DnD your imagination is your limit, from raiding dungeons to waging wars and conducting sieges you can do anything you set your mind to. And if you prefer a different kind of siege, a more fast paced, and modern one, I suggest you keep an eye on our next article.

Publisher: CX-X Canik
January 20th, 2020

Editor's Note:

Hello all, and thanks for reading the 501st Newsletter, Issue 36! As you may have noticed, it’s been a long while since the newsletter has been posted, and there is more content than normal. The News Team has been hard at work finalizing some articles for posting, as well as reforming the team itself and the way we operate in order to bring you, the reader, more material to enjoy. A few key differences to this News Letter; under each HQ and Detachment in the promotions areas, we will begin incorporating certain news pieces (for detachments and HQs, this will usually be recruitment dates, or policy changes that apply to the whole unit; and for platoons, this will usually be for squad recruitment. DM myself or Momentum if you want your squad recruitment posted, otherwise we are left to the discord channel for that information!). Additionally, we have brought back B.A.R.C. Detachment, so make sure you post those lovely photos of your brave and fierce pets in the #news-open Discord channel! Another note, to the RTOs and Medics, information regarding promotions within your personnel and other relevant news had unfortunately been neglected this article. I am deeply sorry for that, and will make sure to get any and all information from you gents for the next one! The past few weeks have been filled with events across all of the 501st. Also, make sure to check out CM Husky's video dedicated to the friendships and bonds that have been made in this great community. You can find it at the bottom of the news letter! Lastly, please ignore the text at the top of the article. Cruisie and I are working to make sure it doesn't show in the next article. I also plan on working on the formatting for future articles to make things look smoother and neater. Thank you all for your patience!

• Raffle Winners, Winter Stand Down Ends, ARC 2.0 (see Company HQ news), Acklay Expansion (see Acklay HQ news), and CShop announcements.

• Platoon and Detachment Promotions and News.

• Monthly BARC Detachment Photos.

Before you continue, please remember that this unit and community is purely run off your donations and hard work. Consider donating HERE or become a Patreon Supporter HERE and enjoy some extra benefits! Thank you for keeping the gears turning!

Per BC Jay (November Raffle Winners!):

“I'm happy to announce the winners of this months Raffle!

CM Weaver - Jedi Fallen Order Standard Copy!

CI-P Purdy  - Jedi Fallen Order Standard Copy!

CX-W Rive   - Jedi Fallen Order Deluxe Copy!

Please make sure you read the messages sent to you, so that you can get those ASAP!”

Per BC Jay (December Raffle Winners!):

“Sorry about that, a day late but not a dollar short! I'd like to announce the winners of the Star Citizen Give Away!

Congrats to;

CI-P Loki 

CM-C Holiday 

CT Kraken

You'll be messaged shortly with instructions!

Thank you to our sponsor for this! As well as another thank you to next!”

    The Mod Development Team is in search of some new talent! If you have the creative and technological know how, the Team is looking for individuals who have experience in scripting, coding, texturing, terrain development, UV mapping, or any other modding skills. Contact CC Lava if you are interested in more information!

    The TCW Team was looking for INFANTRY ASSET TESTERS. The application process ended on 12/13/19, but if you have config/modding experience, or don’t but would still like to assist, make sure you keep an eye out for the next openings. These tester positions are very important to the mod creation process, and will allow for a smooth release of the TCW mod. (Please note that we placed this chunk of text under the C-Shop Announcements instead of the Mod and Patch Notes section as this is an official C-Shop Position, and is regarding positioning and recruitment, as opposed to details of the mod creation process)

    Have you ever wanted to join a C-Shop? Have you ever wanted to do something worthwhile for the Unit? Have you ever wanted to see something you created in game? Have you ever wanted to be a part of a team spanning across multiple Starsim units in an effort to create a better community? If the answer to the above is yes, then you’ll be glad to know that we are constantly looking for help and talent in the TCW Development Team. We could use every skill we can get our hands on. From modelers to texturers, from importers to scripters/coders. If you would like to join our glorious cause, feel free to send a message to the Lead 501st Developer, CC Lava, or the head of the Weapons team, CS-M Pompano. This is the way.

    Tech Support is looking for new members! If you have the drive to help others with technical issues, including mods, game errors, or just general tech issues, and have the patience of an angel, DM CX-P Zatama on Discord with your Rank, Name, and that you are interested!

Battalion HQ

News: The recent Town Hall includes quite a few changes, including the expansion of Acklay (see Acklay News), the return of ARC (with a twist, see Avalanche HQ News), and a shout out to CM Husky for his brilliantly made 501st Music Video. You can view this wonderful video HERE.

No Promotions

"I want to commend CP Ghost for the award of killing Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, that guy whimpered like a dog, but not CP Ghost." -CS-M Verax

Avalanche HQ

News: The return of ARC comes as a surprise to many. Instead of becoming it’s own detachment like the old days, ARC troopers will integrate within each squad of Avalanche, becoming each squad’s 12th member. Selection of this trooper is preferred to come from within the squad itself, lending a hand to those who value leadership (beyond giving orders) and are believed to be great mentors. Currently, contenders for the ARC positions have been selected, with the interview process under way. 

Promotions:

CI-S Purdy (CP to CS), Archon (CWO-3 to CWO-4)

"If you find yourself in a situation where you need to choose between respect and pride then think about what you would want in return." -CC Player

Acklay HQ

News: With the recent expansion into a Company, Acklay now has 2 Platoons, each with 3 squads. Recruitment is currently closed at this time, however, do not hesitate to express interest, and keep an eye on the #acklay-open Discord channel for the next recruitment announcement, which will be posted by CC Lava, as he wishes to fill the open slots as efficiently as possible. 

Promotions:

Eleck (CT to Sr. CT), Tallon (Sr. CT to Vt. CT), Arthur (CT to Sr. CT), Scard (Sr. CT to CP), Exod (CP to CS), Charger (CT to Sr. CT), Solaire (Sr. CT to Vt. CT), Nobear (CS to Sr. CS), Snarley (CT to Sr. CT),

“I have stolen good egg from Zeta (Mimir), to become bigger egg.” -CC Lava

Zeta HQ

News: No news at this time.

Promotions:

Arcanist (CT to Sr. CT), Peanut (CR-C to CT), Bemount (CR-C to CT), Bandit (CR-C to CT), Chad (CR-C to CT), Diablo (CR-C to CT), Foxxy (CR-C to CT), Ripjaw (CW to CW-1), Sentinel (CT to CW), Super (CT to CW), Vakarian (CR-C to CT), Kyrie (CR-C to CT), Sparrow (CR-C to CT), Napkin (CR to CR-C), Ikaros (CR to CR-C), Rookie (CR-C to CT), Brosevelt (CR to CR-C), Chack (CR to CR-C), Spud (CR to CR-C), Joker (CR to CR-C), Yhorm (CR to CR-C), Thor (CR-C to CT), Flooded (CR to CR-C), Jello (CR to CR-C), Pie (CR to CR-C)

“Acklay has grown one egg, to become a bigger egg.” -CS Fancy

Avalanche 1

Recruitment: None listed at this time.

Promotions:

Lantern (Sr. CT to Vt. CT), Ford (Sr. CT to Vt. CT), Swanny (Sr. CT to CP), Silver (Sr. CT to Vt. CT), Pollyon (Sr. CT to Vt. CT), Shape (CP to CS), Tuch (Sr. CT to Vt. CT), Rhino (CT to Sr. CT), Pigeon (CT to Sr. CT)

”1st has hibernated and we're ready to get back in the swing of things.” -CC Point

Avalanche 2

Recruitment: None listed at this time.

Promotions:

Chaser (Sr. CT to CP), Sierra (CR-C to CT), Stoanes (Sr. CT to CP), Bacon (CT to Sr. CT), Black (Sr. CT to CP), Slyder (CT to Sr. CT), 

"Pompano is lazy and didn't give Canik a quote for this newsletter." -CC Crisis

Avalanche 3

Recruitment: (Perm Placement) A3-2 is looking for 1x Bravo Team Lead (RTO qual+C Shop required). Contact CP Bjorn.

Promotions:

Murdock (CP to CS), Drammon (CP to CS), Storm (CT to Sr. CT), Halo (Sr. CT to Vt. CT), Cyber (CP to CS), Cerberus (Sr. CT to Vt. CT), Canine (CR-C to CT), Versa (CT to Sr. CT), Weepier (Sr. CT to CP), Essay (CT to Sr. CT), Kitsune (Sr. CT to Vt. CT)

No quote this time. (Apologies 3rd Platoon)

Avalanche 4

Recruitment: (Perm Placement) A4-3 is looking for 1 RTO and 1 Trooper. Contact CP Pro.

Promotions:

Cliche (CT to Sr. CT), Scanlon (Sr. CT to Vt. CT), Snippy (Sr. CT to Vt. CT), Dunpar (CR to CR-C), Anubis (CR-C to CT), Sigma (CT to Sr. CT), Virtox (CT to Sr. CT), Snivy (CT to Sr. CT), Muffins (CT to Sr. CT), Habit (CT to Sr. CT), Craz (CT to Sr. CT),

"It's 2020 but Sam still can't see." -CS-M Drifter

Razor

News: Recruitment for Razor and Warden is set to open sometime this month (January)! Keep an eye out in future NewsLetters and the appropriate Discord Announcement Channels!

Promotions: 

Mia (CR-C to CX-W (Warden-Petty Officer)), Shatter (CR-C to CX-W (Warden-Petty Officer)), Revos (CX-W (Warden-Sr. P.O. to Vt. P.O.), Whisler (Warden-Sr. P.O. to Vt. P.O.), Kushiban (Flight Officer to LT. Jr Grade), Orange (Sr. Ensign to Flight Officer), Casskun (Sr. Ensign to Flight Officer), Kaj (Ensign to Sr. Ensign), Frisk (Sr. Cadet to Ensign), Canik (Sr. Cadet to Ensign), Floff (Sr. Cadet to Ensign), Ethan (Jr. Cadet to Sr. Cadet), Church (Jr. Cadet to Sr. Cadet), Sophia (CR-C to Jr. Cadet), Skali (CR-C to Jr. Cadet), Kurtfurst (CR-C to Jr. Cadet), Blast (CR-C to Jr. Cadet), Duncan (CR-C to Jr. Cadet), Erlien (Flight Officer to LT. Jr Grade), Valkyrr (Jr. Cadet to Sr. Cadet), Zoro (Jr. Cadet to Sr. Cadet), 

“Ok fine, use this...” -CX Scuba

Mynock

News: Recruitment is set to open soon. Slots for Troopers and Medics will be open. Zeta will have the first opportunity for Trooper slots, then reserves shortly after is slots are still available. Medics from either Zeta or Reserves may request for the slot immediately (upon open recruitment). Contact CX Scuba or CS Zulu.

Promotions:

Truesight (Sr. CT to CP), Zulu (CP to CS), Weiss (CT to CP)

“If that doesn’t work, use this...” -CX Scuba

RTO

No promotions this time (Apologies to the RTOs)

 “RTOs got a new toy, watch out for mulligan red smokes. FORE!!” -CI-P Dimitri

Medical

Promotions:
Sunshine (CM-C to CM), Beast (CM-C to CM)

No quote this time. (Apologies to the life savers)

B.A.R.C. DETACHMENT

A few weeks ago, we in the News Team asked for your best pictures of your strong companions and battle creatures. While the logo and name may imply we want the good bois of the unit, we want to showcase with every Newsletter one lucky animal, kept and befriended by a member within the 501st. This week's winner is (hopefully) not to be a normal occurrence. (Keep a tissue ready, and I'm not crying, you're crying!)

CI Yoda, 23 August 2006 - 18 January 2020

Faithful companion to our very own CI Chatter (the graphic designer who made our awesome headers), CI Yoda served his battle buddy for nearly 14 years. CI Yoda will be posthumously awarded the "Bestest Boi" Medal

RIP Brother, You'll be missed.

_{501st News Team opinion doesn’t reflect the opinions of the entire community. If you’d like to help the news team bring in new information, you can by signing up for the news team, submitting an article, posting a piece of media or getting publicity for a custom event you’re hosting. For those interested, please contact either CX-X Canik, or one of the editors for more information. Your voice matters, let it be heard. We’re currently looking for writers to collect stories, media and content. Feel free to leave comments feel free to leave comments below on what you think.  Also please consider donating to the 501st to help pay for server costs and help keep this community alive and well maintained.}

_{Publisher: CX-X Canik}

_{Chief NewsLetter Correspondent: CX-X Canik
Correspondents: CP Swanny, CM Sunshine, CW Super}