Apportation / The Mage's Greatest Combat Spell
In GURPS the Apportation spell is IQ/H and can be one of the most damaging spells you can learn. The author recalls first using it to move a party member across a rickety bridge, and explores its broader combat applications.
The September 2011 archive offers a glimpse into the heart of the cheese shop's approach to GURPS roleplaying, where character creation and adventure design go hand in hand. Each post reflects a deep affection for the system, treating the rules not as a constraint but as a toolkit for telling richer stories. Whether the topic is a single spell, a handout for players, or a visit to a London shop, the underlying thread is the same: the game lives through the people at the table. The writers speak with the voice of experienced players who have seen countless sessions unfold, and they share those lessons generously with anyone willing to read.
The discussion of Apportation highlights how a single GURPS spell can reshape the flow of combat and problem-solving alike. Moving a party member across a rickety bridge is just the beginning; the same IQ/H spell can reposition enemies, retrieve objects, or create openings that turn a dire situation into a manageable one. The author's recollection of first using it speaks to the joy of discovering hidden potential in the rules. It is a reminder that the most memorable moments in roleplaying often come not from the biggest attacks but from creative applications of the tools already in hand.
The open letter to players about reading GM handouts touches on a recurring theme across the site: trust and communication at the table. Handouts are more than paper; they are invitations into the world the GM has built. When players take the time to engage with them, the story deepens, and the shared experience becomes far more rewarding. The post encourages a spirit of cooperation, reminding everyone that GURPS, like any roleplaying game, works best when players and GMs meet each other halfway. Preparation on one side and attention on the other create sessions that everyone remembers.
The month closes with a look at recommended RPG sites and a visit to a London shop, tying the online community to the broader hobby. These posts reinforce the idea that roleplaying extends beyond any single table, connecting players through shared resources, shared tastes, and shared stories. The cheese shop's voice remains warm and conversational, the kind of place where a reader feels welcome to linger, comment, and share their own experiences. For anyone new to GURPS or returning after a long break, this archive serves as a friendly reminder of why the obsession is worth reliving.