John Bean's page

I completely agree with upping the minimum skill points given to any character to 4. It seems rather arbitrary as to why some classes recieve 4 like barbarian and druid and why others recieve only 2. The classes in which skills play a more pivotal role such as bard, rogue, ranger, scout, etc. have a distict increase in skill points as they should, but for a character to not even have the points to represent anything but the most focused of skill training is a bit silly. I think increasing the skill points to a minimum of 4 allows for a character to have a cross class skill that is important to them for roleplay and allows for more individuality within the classes.

In regards to balance I have run with the minimum 4 as a house rule for over 2 years of solid play in multiple games at all levels of play and it has seemed very balanced and not overpowering. I am sure that some people might be able to find a way to munchin out with the 4 pts, if so more power to them, I dont tolerate munchkins as I think it completely defeats the point of the game so it isnt an issue for me or my players.

Very nice, I implemented something very similar in the past in standard 3.5 games I ran. It made playing the monk worthwhile and brought it to par with the fighters with all the cool nifty powers on their armor weapons and shield. Otherwise that is 3 magic item slots that are just unavailable to a monk.