| david ferris |
Hit points for first level characters
This is an issue when multiclassing:
Long term hit point attainment is currently biased towards your first level choice of class. Long term skill attainment is no longer skewed that way. So why hit points?
If you want to multiclass then a power gamer will choose the highest hit point class for their first level character. Best to start out with maximum hit points of the highest possibility.
A story line gamer might well prefer a more organic sequence "I am starting as a rogue because I am a poor refugee trying to survive on the streets.."
I prefer to lego block together character stats without having to consider sequence of class selection.
I suggest a concept that defines player characters as being elite characters. Elite characters have advantages with progression.
Elite characters have to roll initial abilities (3d6) and hit points (based on class HD) for every level.
To give elite characters even more survivability I suggest giving a flat bonus of 10 hit points at first level. That means that even if a barbarian unluckily rolls a natural 2 for first level hit points, he or she still gets a better deal than the majority of first level monster opponents.
This would eliminate multiclass sequencing for hit points to fit in with the way you have eliminated the class sequencing issue for skill point attainment.
It sucks when you roll a natural one for extra hit points at any level. Especially if you are a barbarian.
This rule seems fair for all classes and I have used it for a long time with my gaming group.
Elite NPC's and monsters can be generated. Elite opponents ought to be worth 20% more XP than non-elite characters of the same level level.
You can generate an elite critter from scratch.
If you want to convert an existing critter into an elite one on the fly (because you want a tougher leader for a random encounter) simply assign an extra 10 hit points and give it a +1 bonus to attack rolls, armorclass, saving throws, and save difficulties.