Big Media

The arrival of the Gutenberg press in 1450 would forever change how information was shared because this invention made it possible to rapidly produce printed material. The breakthrough hastened technological progress and gave birth to new industries as it made the world a much smaller place. Unfortunately, it also set the stage for the monster that would eventually become “big media” to emerge. As time passed, its spawn, the paparazzi arose and reared its ugly head. Those who fell under its merciless gaze would never be the same again.

Much of the media has beneficial to civilization. As America spread westward, newspapers became vital links to “back home.” As newspapers gained popularity, their circulation grew and publishers began to wield vast influence These moguls had the means to mold public opinion and one d id not needlessly anger them. Theirs was the ability to launch successful careers or cause rising stars to fade by simply ignoring their existence. Those who dared to challenge the actions of the modern-age titans risked having all the ugly flaws of their life exposed for the world to see. Few people could endure such a spotlight. Each passing innovation in communication shortened the gap between breaking news and when it was reported to the masses. Far less willingly embraced it.

The advent of television put a face upon the media as newscasters came into a growing number of households. Many of these professionals were viewed as trusted sources by those who caught their every word. Unfortunately, the arrival of cable and the Internet helped flood the market with competing sources for information.

As competition became fierce, some have chosen to manufacture stories to boost sagging ratings. This has led to a great loss in credibility and harmed innocents who had the misfortune of being the target of investigative witch hunts. Sadly, “shock jocks,” exposes, and insinuation seem to be the coin of the realm for much of the modern world’s airwaves and prim media. Some ravenous reporters seem to be morally void as they stoop to unimaginable depths while getting a story. Thus, wiretaps, harassment, and even a staged murder would not be out of the question.

Typical Paparazzi Photojournalist

Reflexes 3D: climbing 3D+1, contortion 3D+1, sneak 3D+1

Coordination 2D+1: lock picking 3D

Physique l D+ 2: running 2D

Knowledge 4D: business 4D+1, forgery 4D+1, security 4D+1

Perception 5D: hide 5D+1, investigation 5D+ 1, streetwise 5D+2, tracking 5D+2

Presence 3D: charm 3D+1, con 3D+2, disguise 3D+2, persuasion 3D+1

Strength Damage: 1D

Move: 10

Fate Points: 0

Character Points: 3

Body Points: 15

Wound Levels: 3

Disadvantages: Devotion (R3), to getting story; Enemy (R1), hated by the fallen stars they helped destroy; Infamy (R2), often invades privacy for impromptu photos and known for being ruthless

Advantages: Contacts (R2), informant network, Hollywood agents, and those who despise celebrities; Trademark Specialization (R1), +2D to tracking when stalking celebrities for a photo or a story

Special Abilities: Endurance (R1), +3D to Physique or stamina checks when performing taxing physical tasks; Iron Will (R3), +3 to all willpower rolls and +3 to the default difficulty against them; Luck: Great (R1)

D6 Adventure Creatures (WEG 51021), © 2005 Purgatory Publishing Inc.
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