We thank the talented Italian artisans of Labmasu for sending us two examples of The Potion of Uncontrollable Reactions in order to write this review. These original dice can be purchased at the official store for €30 (Basic Set) and €8 (Single Shot). There is also another bundle that includes a third item.
First let’s look at the product reviewed: what is The Potion of Uncontrollable Reactions? It was created to quickly (and randomly, in part) manage the actions of PCs and NPCs during a game session. It isn’t something to be abused in a long campaign, but more a fun solution for one-shots with an ironic theme – OR to have fun without leaving your absent companions behind in pure role-play sessions when some players are missing, as recommended by the creators. In any case, keep in mind that it offers classic content, suitable for many fantasy role-playing games.
Conceptual Realization
The Basic Set is a collection of eleven d6, each dedicated to a race or class (halfling, human, gnome, dwarf, half-orc, elf, thief, warrior, wizard, cleric and bard). Each face features typical actions for that character; it is obviously inevitable that the actions the dice describe be generic and stereotyped, since this is the only way to recreate the relatively narrow range of plausible behaviors. The cleric, for example, can heal; it is a generic definition, but in a pure role-play session it can be interpreted in various ways. It goes without saying that during a traditional session the dice aren’t as useful, but they can still provide ideas on the fly for what the NPCs in the scene might do.
The Single Shot contains only two six-sided dice, one for the class and one for the race. These can be useful for creating characters on the fly, in order to eliminate the dead times when a game master is looking for ideas. They can also be used when creating characters for a one-shot or even for players who are more indecisive. Being only six-sided dice, they can’t include all the “classic” classes and races, and this is a shame because, obviously, they can never lead to the generation of certain permutations.
Review of the Physical Make-up of The Potion of uncontrollable Reactions
The two wooden boxes holding the dice are gracefully shaped to recall two classic fantasy potions. The wood is of good quality and is worked in a clean, precise way. Each container is made up of several layers having the same shape but a different width, so as to create an internal space in which to store the dice. This solution is also very appealing from an aesthetic point of view. Both potions boxes are sealed by magnets, an excellent choice by the creators aiming for a solid and functional solution.
The Potion of Uncontrollable Reactions displays a simple and minimalist style; it doesn’t get lost in frills.
The dice follow the same principle: simple, functional and beautiful in their austerity. These are simple plastic dice in various bright colors. The messages on their faces are plain white or black, as needed to make them easier to read. In addition to the messages, they also boast very simple drawings that clearly represent the class or race concerned. They have no particular flaws. They are nothing revolutionary, but they fulfill exactly the purpose intended. When placed in their proper containers, they fit perfectly and easily without falling at the first sudden movement.
Final thoughts on The Potion of Uncontrollable Reactions
When all is said and done, I think The Potion of Uncontrollable Reactions can enrich the gaming experience. This due to both for their aesthetic and functional value. Obviously they are not suitable for every group. To better appreciate them you have to accept an increase in the random factor in game play, and commitment to applying interpretations of them. Their intensive use, therefore, seems very appropriate in sandbox campaigns.