I would query this to Dragon if I had the mind and energy to do it. Since I don't, maybe one of you stat block masters might try. I think this would be an awesome timesaver for the harried DM who needs to suddenly expand an NPC's detail from Joe, Fighter 3, to Joe Mercenary, Fighter 3 with 28 hp, +3 Intimidate, Two weapon fighting feat, etc.
I would like a Dragon feature article with partial stat blocks. What do I mean?
Similar to the NPC tables on page 112 of the DMG, but with a tad more detail such as maybe three or four variations for each class, based on feats, with skill bundles based on the NPC package. How can I explain this better?
Break down each class by 3 or 4 subtypes, based on descriptors (mercenary, thug, investigator, burglar, card shark, etc). Then assign standard feat and skill package bundles to each subtype.
A DM could then use the class and subtype in his or her campaign notes to describe NPCs without having to type up a full stat block, but knowing that with the Dragon article, he or she could expand the NPC's detail when needed so that critical statistics are quickly available.
NPC's are either just given a name class and level or a full blown half-page stat block. I want something in between, something where I can label NPC's quickly and be able to figure out their attacks, saves and most important skills in a hurry when necessary.
Anyone else think this is a good idea? I don't care for stat blocks all that much, except of course when I need them NOW....maybe this could be a class act feature as well, expanding the availability of quick NPC stats to the classes from all the non PH sources....
For my campaign, this would be perfect for all the NPCs that have been given names and roles in the campaign, but for whom a full stat block isn't necessarily needed. However, aren't there a lot of occasions in your game where suddenly you might want to figure out (within a +/- margin of error) what an NPC's skill bonus is in a particular skill? What if there's a quick combat or something....quick labels associated with partially pregenerated stat blocks would kick butt, IMO.
Thinking about this, it would probably be better placed in a Campaign Workbook in Dungeon......but still...I'd love to see it.
Break down each class by 3 or 4 subtypes, based on descriptors (mercenary, thug, investigator, burglar, card shark, etc). Then assign standard feat and skill package bundles to each subtype.
...
NPC's are either just given a name class and level or a full blown half-page stat block. I want something in between, something where I can label NPC's quickly and be able to figure out their attacks, saves and most important skills in a hurry when necessary.
So, for instance:
Sentry1st: Alertness
3rd: Combat Reflexes
6th: Skill Focus (Spot)
9th: Endurance
12th: Skill Focus (Listen)
15th: Diehard
18th: Blind-Fight
Skills: Hide, Listen, Sense Motive, Spot
Abilities: Wisdom, Dexterity, Constitution, Strength
or am I off base here?
TK
Yes, something like that....