Since I recently purchased DGP's Starship Operator's Manual (Volume 1), I'll
provide a brief review of it.
Ever since the venerable Book 5: High Guard came out, I've always wondered
about the hows and whys of starship operation. Since most campaigns are closely
involved with starships, it never hurts to know some of the details. Besides,
it adds to the flavor and enjoyment of a game to have a clear picture of the
location.
In my opinion, the SOM fits the bill perfectly. It covers all the major ship
systems, from jump drive to stateroom accomodations. I found the handwaving
explaining the theory behind jump drives and reactionless thruster plates of
particular interest, as well as the details on starship security.
The flowcharts of shipboard systems should be of particular interest to
referees and players alike. Now you have a number of ways that something can
go wrong. The pictures and brief blurbs of various areas aboard ship are also
enlightening.
So, I'd give it a thumbs up... I'd be interested to know a couple of things
about other DGP items: When will the next volume in the SOM be out and what
will it cover? When will more alien modules be out?
Thanks.