WRITTEN by MICHAEL A. PONDSMITH ET AL
R. TALSORIAN GAMES, INC.
$17.OD

Comme il faut, French of course, refers to the art of acting proper, stylish and distinctly Victorian. As the second supplement for R. Talsorian's Castle Falkenstein, Comme Il Faut describes the lifestyles and manners of New Europa's gentlemen and ladies.

The book covers everything from assignations (the proper etiquette for illicit romantic encounters) to zeitgeist (an understanding of an era's ideals, dreams, hopes and beliefs). Topics include a typical Victorian day, leaving a calling card, and a hundred other tidbits that will bring any Falkenstein game to life.

On the rules side, Comme Il Faut provides a question and answer page -- both for general information and for Falkenstein sorcery. This section also presents new skills, abilities and professions. Expanded resolution systems include everything from live action and freeform gaming, to card variants and Hard Numbers Falkenstein. New charts both ease game play and add details. The expanded sorcery rules discuss cantrips, wards, practical sorcerous professions and limits on the available Thaumic Energy.

The book ends with an overview of Falkenstein campaign archetypes, and full-page maps of important New European cities.

Many period drawings by Charles Dana Gibson are scattered throughout the book. While R. Talsorian printed it in a style similar to Steam Age, the all-blue ink looks better than Steam's icky brown. Overall, Comme 11 Faut is visually pleasing and easy to use.

I cannot say that I like everything in the book, but it is essential for any serious Falkenstein players - or anyone interested in the Victorian era.

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