RE: [DL] Which System to Use for a New Game

["Matthew M. DeForrest" <mmdeforrest@worldnet.att.net>]

-----Original Message-----
I gotta say that I really have not liked the level system since I played
Champions.  It is a HUGE weakness of the d20 system IMNSHO.  However as a
player I am more partial to levels than as a GM.  Anyone else experience
that?
--------------------------

I have to admit a certain love-hate relationship with the idea of "levels"
in RPGs.  It does make some bookkeeping and planning easier as a GM (Hmmm,
the group is 3rd-5th level, so they can handle this kind of an encounter)
and provides a certain motivation as a player (Hey, at next level, I can
cast a fifth level spell!).

At the same time, I do think it sets a lot of limits on players in terms of
what their characters can do.  Once you sign on as a wizard, for example,
you can forget about ever learning to wield a staff with greater proficiency
than a dagger.  I know that the new d20 system addresses this somewhat with
feats, but a skill-based system allows for greater personalization of a
character.

All in all, I tend to stick with skill-based systems when I get to make the
choice.  That being said, I won't turn down playing in a level-based game if
I like the players.

My $.02.

Matt