About this episode
Summary In this episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, we preview the Starfinder second edition playtest and the promise of the Starfinder setting. We explore the different ancestries in the playtest book, including androids, barathu, kasathas, lashuntas, patra, ratfolk, shearin, and skittermanders. We highlight the unique features and abilities of each ancestry and share their initial thoughts. We also discuss the interactive nature of the playtest and the opportunity for players to shape the game before the release of Starfinder 2. We break down the different races and classes in Starfinder 2e and describe the Skittermander race, which is like Stitch with six arms, and the VESC, which are lizard men in space. We discuss the Soki, which are rap folk, and the Borai and Prismeni heritages. We dig into the different classes, including the Envoy, which is like a warlord and bard, the Mystic, which is the healer class, the Operative, which is like a rogue but better, the Solarian, which is like a Starfinder Jedi, and the Technomancer, which will be added in the February playtest. We highlight the unique features and abilities of each class. We follow up with a discussion on the classes in Starfinder and our experiences playing them. We touch on the Solarian, Soldier, Witch Warper, and Operative classes, highlighting their unique abilities and mechanics. We discuss the action economy and balance of the classes, as well as the equipment and skills in the game. Overall, We're excited about the game and its potential, but feel some areas may need adjustment. Takeaways The Starfinder second edition playtest allows players to shape the game before the release of Starfinder 2. The different ancestries in the playtest book offer unique features and abilities, such as the emotionally unaware trait for androids and the vent gas ability for barathu. The playtest book includes sidebars that provide insight into the designer's intent for each class and allow players to provide feedback. The interactive nature of the playtest encourages players to read the material, playtest it, and provide feedback to help shape the final version of Starfinder 2. Starfinder 2e introduces new races like the Skittermander, VESC, Soki, Borai, and Prismeni. The classes in Starfinder 2e include the Envoy, Mystic, Operative, Solarian, and Technomancer. Each class has unique features and abilities that make them distinct and interesting to play. The game allows for inter-compatibility with Pathfinder 2e, allowing players to take options from one game into the other. The classes in Starfinder 2e offer a variety of playstyles, from support roles to high damage dealers. The Solarian class offers a mix of melee combat and powerful control abilities. The Soldier class is like a space marine, focusing on big guns and frontline combat. The Witch Warper class can rewrite reality with their spells and has different paradoxes to choose from. The action economy of the Witch Warper class may need further testing and adjustment. The Operative class is powerful but requires careful management of hero points. The equipment in Starfinder includes a variety of sci-fi weapons, armor, and body modifications. The game introduces new skills like computers and piloting, as well as new rules for gravity, air density, and radiation. Hero points can enhance gameplay but do not guarantee automatic success. The hosts are excited to play Starfinder and see its potential, while also recognizing areas that may need improvement. If you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts , Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. It's a quick, free way to support the podcast, and helps us reach new listeners. If you love the show, consider joining us on Patreon , where backers at the $5 and above tiers get ad free access to RPGBOT.net and the RPGBOT.Podcast, can chat directly to members of the RPGBOT team and community on the RPGBOT.Discord, and can join us for live-streamed recordings. Support us on Amazon.com when you purchase products recommended in the show at the following link: https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ How to Find Us: In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net Tyler Kamstra Twitter: @RPGBOTDOTNET Facebook: rpgbotbotdotnet Bluesky:rpgbot.bsky.social Ash Ely Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games Twitter: @GravenAshes YouTube@ashravenmedia Randall James @JackAmateur Amateurjack.com Producer Dan @Lzr_illuminati