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Just something I brainstormed this morning, kind of a pseudo-alternative to action points or hero points. The benefits to martial characters outweigh those to spell casters. Monsters using this could become pretty nasty, so maybe its better left to PCs.
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BAB actions
Creatures with a base attack bonus have a pool of points they can spend to perform more actions than they normally could. The number of points in the pool is equal to the creature's base attack bonus, which refresh once a day at the end of eight hours of rest. By spending the number of points and using the action listed in the heading, the creature can perform the the action listed under it. If the action is not used when the points are spent, both the action and the points are lost.
Only actions available to any creature can be performed in this way - not actions such as those possible only by the creature's race, hit dice, or character levels. A barbarian may light a torch, use a skill, or attack with the benefits of her rage ability, but she may not use a rage power requiring an action such as Intimidating Glare. A cleric may use total defense, pick up an item, or put away his shield, but he may not use cast a spell or use Channel Energy.
(1 point, move action)
You can move your speed and at any point use a move action that does not involve movement. You example, you can open a door, sheathe a weapon, or load a light crossbow during your movement.
(1 point, swift action)
You can move 5 feet, provoking attacks of opportunity as normal. This movement is not reduced by armor, encumbrance, climbing, swimming, difficult terrain, etcetera, but does not allow you to move if it you are not allowed to, such as from the grappled condition.
(4 points, swift action)
You can perform a move action, such as move your speed, retrieve a stored item, or stand up from prone.
(7 points, swift action)
You can perform a standard action, such as attack, drink a potion, or escape a grapple.
(10 points, standard action)
You can perform a full-round action, such as administer a potion to an unconscious creature, full attack, or withdraw.
I had a similar idea that involved letting players make more attacks if they moved fewer spaces.
Hmm. Interesting, but these open-ended things tend to cause surprises. I wonder how it works in practice?
I wish I could say! My group doesn't use house rules or even third party material. I suppose you're right about surprises. I believe the second paragraph explains my intention, but I knew I wasn't covering everything I wanted. Ultimately I had to choose between being thorough and keeping it short.