DFRPG, since it is based around the DV, does not handle generic Urban Fantasy all that well. True, the mechanics of DFRPG aren't covered by the OGL, but since they do encourage you to make custom rules, I thought maybe it was time we had a thread looking at using DFRPG outside of the DV.
Personally, one thing I see as a flaw in the current system is the costs of things. Everything costs 0, 1, 2, 3, etc refresh. Looking at some of the powers, it's hard to saw "this power is as good as that power" when they cost the same.
My proposal is to multiple by ten and go from there while assuming that all current powers round to their current value.
For example, instead starting with 7 refresh a PC would start with 70. Stunts would cost 10 refresh each, and as for powers... something like Cassandra’s Tears would probably cost 2 or 3 refresh.
The way this system comes to life is with powers like Claws. Currently we only have non-concealable Claws (because that's what is found in the DV), but in an expanded system we could have:
Claws (non-concealable): 8 refresh
Claws (concealable): 12 refresh.
Or add an optional trapping to Claws:
Concealable [-4]
Your Claws can be easily concealed. Maybe they can retract like a cat's or maybe you and the GM will work out another explanation. Whatever the case, you can appear unarmed when you choose to.
Of course, at some point we'll have to look at sex as it applies to Urban Fantasy. Or we could leave it at:
Sex can be a primal force. If the table is comfortable with using it, it can be used to declare aspects that can be tagged in ritualistic spell casting.
Example Aspects: "Puppy Pile Power", "First Time Jitters", "It Was Magical", "It Was Magical For Me Two", , "It Was Magical For Me Three".
Such declarations can be made using Discipline (focusing while being very distracted), Conviction (because you are doing it for power, not pleasure), or Endurance (stamina). If the group allows, a Performance based Stunt "Bedroom Olympian" could allow Performance based declarations.
Which is a PG write up of the Anita Blake / Paranormal Romance flavour of Urban Fantasy.
Thoughts? Suggestions?
Richard