In the 14th century, firearms in the form of pole guns began to appear within Australia as trade between its northern societies and those of the Malay Archipelago intensified. However, they were very situational and could not realistically compete against local crossbows, longbows and composite bows. Furthermore, the gunpowder formula used was not as efficient. This changed in the 16th century, when Alfonso de Albuquerque's Expedition arrived in the shores of northern Australia. Following the conflict, many matchlocks arquebuses entered Oceanyka, and they were widely copied, slowly beginning to proliferate. Oceanykans call Portuguese-style arquebus "istinggar", much like their Malay neighbours do. It is a bastardisation of "espingarda", or arquebus in Portuguese.
Istinggar Arquebus
Abilities
Common Attributes - Mechanical
Smoothbore
This weapon lacks rifling. While its projectiles have the kinetic energy to kill at a considerable distance, actually hitting a single target it a different story. It is best used in massed volley fire.
EFFECT:
This weapon suffers from a Hard DM to its hit rolls at maximum range. However, at one range below, it can fire with normal accuracy.
For example, a weapon with a range of Average Range will suffer from the malus at that distance, but if firing at Short Range or below, it will not.
Common Attributes - Miscellaneous
Volley Fire - Muskets
Early firearms, such as matchlocks and flintlocks, were particularly devastating when used by massed troops firing in coordination. The more disciplined and well-drilled a troop of musketeers was, the greater their chances of victory.
EFFECT:
This weapon can Reload (1 AP) at a cost of 0 AP if an allied creature armed with a Volley Fire weapon is within Point-Blank Range.