Level Adjustment: a great idea that sparked unending confusion. What does it add to? What does it modify? Instead of being a flat number to alter other numbers, why not let it work like every other character-building block in the system?
When creating a PC from a level-adjusted race, make it mandatory to add a level of Commoner per point of LA. What will this accomplish?
- Character level = HD
- XP table will remain the same
- Token additions to hp (d4), BAB, saves (all poor) and skills (2)
- Max skill modifier will remain the same
Being the most subpar class in the game, the Commoner will balance out the additional benefits of a LA race.
As an option, you could replace "Commoner" with a new class created specifically for this purpose, making it subpar, but still better than getting nothing.
Opinions? Suggestions?
I prefer "racial classes" instead of going commoner on everyone. You can fine-tune them better:
Instead of a flat "lose X levels" you can have a varying number of levels with variable variables. Okay, that sentence was no good, so I'll use an example:
Say a race gets several magical abilities, a very generous helping of ability score bonuses, and other goodies. the LA system as it is in the core rules only allows you to flat-out take away levels - or give racial hit dice based on the creature type (which can be quite powerful - dragon or outsider anyone?)
But with tailor-made racial levels, you can balance things with BAB, saves, HD, skill points. You can also distribute the given abilities over the levels, so the power level remains constant every step of the way.
And not only that: You can even tailor the features to the race's nature. You got super-elves? They get a low HD, strong reflex saves and more skill points. A super-dwarf? Hardly any skill points, but a higher HD and strong fort.
So I guess I'm pitching a mix of paragon levels and savage species-style racial classes.
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I'm in favor of the racial leveling system for the races that have too much power as well. For example a Dark Elf could see it's powers broken up a bit so that you only get all those powers if you take 4 levels of Dark Elf, otherwise you get the stats, the vision, and a few other flavor dark elf things that don't unbalance a Dark Elf Fighter 1 PC from a Human Fighter 1 PC.
I however do not want such a system put into place for "super elves" and such. Normal races with no ECL do not need a racial leveling system.
Side note, don't want every race done up like this either, just popular races PCs would/could play.
I however do not want such a system put into place for "super elves" and such. Normal races with no ECL do not need a racial leveling system.
It was just an example. I don't say that they should cook up super-versions of all races. (Unless they get to do a Middle Earth First Age Campaign setting)
Side note, don't want every race done up like this either, just popular races PCs would/could play.
Not every monster should get it, of course, but the more playable ones should.