This article originally appeared in d20 Weekly

Avatar Handbook

The Avatar's Handbook

Published by Green Ronin Publishing

Written by Jesse Decker

80-page b&w softcover; $16.95

The Avatar's Handbook, describing the mortal agents of the Heavenly Host, continues Green Ronin's Master Class series of player source books introducing new core classes. But it's far more than that, because it also continues the series of resources that detail the planar conflict between good and evil, as explored in previous Green Ronin books Armies of the Abyss, Legions of Hell, and Book of the Righteous.

While its ostensibly merely another installment in the aforementioned Master Class series (previous releases include Witch's Handbook and Shaman's Handbook), only a small fraction of the book -- perhaps 20 pages all told -- is given over to obvious player resources. The remaining 60 pages consist of what is essentially a heavenly monster manual, detailing a host of good celestial creatures. As such, it might seem to be difficult to reconcile these two purposes and intended targets, but the book is such a stellar production that any concerns are quickly dispelled or forgotten.

The Avatar's Handbook features a beautiful color cover depicting an avenging angel slaying an infernal monster recoiling before his divine might. It's both inspiring and evocative. Similarly, the interior artwork, particularly that provided by Jennifer Meyer and Britt Martin, is of superior quality.

As one has come to expect from Green Ronin, the layout is clear and very easy to read, with excellent . . .

This article originally appeared in the second volume of Pyramid. See the current Pyramid website for more information.



Article publication date: March 26, 2003

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