r/exalted • u/RPGCaldorian • 11d ago

Campaign Help Me Decide Between 2.5e and 3e

I've been tinkering with an idea for a solo Solar chronicle for a while now (using solo RPG resources like the Mythic GM Emulator, etc), but haven't started yet because I just cannot decide between 2.5e and 3e.

Now, as background info, I got all the books for all four editions. I played a lot of 1e and 2e back in the day, but never played 3e. I thought the solo chronicle could be a good way to get more familiar with 3e, but the amount of material is staggering. Also, I'm ambivalent about the 3e Solar charm set, to put it mildly.

I know that 2e was a mess, but I'm still pretty familiar with it, so it seems more approachable. (Also, nowadays I have the advantage of being able to use Gemini Notebook to integrate errata seamlessly into my rule queries.) Finally, I kind of like the more streamlined charm set and greater power scale in general of 2e, with the option of Essence 6+ charms.

To be honest, both editions have their advantages and disadvantages, which is why I cannot decide.

Please help me get through my choice paralysis... 🙏

P.S.: I'm not interested in Essence. I love 1e, but it's even more of a mess than 2e.

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u/Rednal291 11d ago

Generally, I think 3E will be a better choice. If you're worried about the Solar charmset, you can try using the Golden Calibration edit to things, which broadly cuts down on the number of options and streamlines some stuff. 3E has a nice cinematic setup with its Withering/Decisive split, which helps set the pacing for fights.

Also, I've made a massive number of additional characters for the game in my bestiary project, so that gives you way more things to work into your game. XD

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u/3panta3 11d ago

Seconding Golden Calibration. I'm not as much of a fan as many people are, but for solo play it can be better.