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I know I have been one of the annoying posters on this forum on the subject of skills. So hopefully this will be the last time I make my opinion heard on this subject.
First off, I agree with the idea of consolidating skills. I think some have been recieved well (Stealth), while some still need work (Acrobatics?). Skills using the same base ability score, such as Move Silently and HIde (both Dex skills) make sense. Skills with different base ability scores do not (such as Balance, Tumble and Jump). This should be part of what decides whether to combine a skill.
Secondly, "+2/+2" feats serve very little purpose in the way of mechanics. In essence, they are a waste of a feat and print. These should go away just as synergies have. Right now Alertness makes no sense, less sense given for free with a familiar. A similar virtual Skill Focus feat (such as Skill Focus: Stealth for a rat/mouse familiar) wouls seem to make more sense. Heck, Skill Focus is feat enough to replace the "+2/+2" feats, especially considering the newer combined skills.
Last, skill points seem to be the best system for customization for PCs. That said, it does slow down NPC creation. Maybe a suggestion of skill packages based on class and role of the NPC woould allow the skill point system to work, without the strain on the DM. A similar system for feats was provided in the back of Player's Handbook 2 (page 209) based on the role the character would serve in the party. While ment for PCs, it could be used for NPCs as well. And it goes with the "add, not subtract" concept that Paizo champions for the Pathfinder RPG.
That is my two sense worth. Take it as you will.
No, my friend, I shall have the final word on skills.
SMURF!
