So. Let me get this straight.
The PHB is made less functional for players to make it easier for the DM to go rummaging through the PHB whenever an abridged monster statblock without the information actually needed to use the monster forces the DM to reach for the PHB.
The functionality of the PHB can be summed up in two words: 'absolute nightmare'.
In my opinion, it's like using the old RIFTS main book when trying to create a character. I want to list a few things.
1: Races are not in alphabetical order. ( not too much of a big deal but still a bit sloppy).
2: Weapons are not divided out by two handed and one handed. ( again, just sloppy).
3: Skills are a constant WTF! It's like the skills section exploded and bits of it ended up all over the other sections. I am constantly having to flip back and forth to the point where my eyes get sore. I feel like cutting my PHB apart and pasting one myself in a better format.
4: Spells, god I don't want to go there again.
I'm not sure why it's been getting a high star rating because the most important function of the book is awful. I hope they do a reprint and put it in better order.
For me, the clunkiest bit is having backgrounds somewhere else. I think they would be better placed between Race and Class. Why? Because backgrounds give you set skill proficiencies while classes give you skill proficiency choices. I made about 17 characters in a row and found it more efficient to select a background first to make sure that I was not doubling up on skill proficiencies.
That and I think some tags on the spell lists (like "B" for bonus action casting, as well as something to denote rituals and reactions) would be very useful.
Other than that, love the book!
Actually, it's somewhat the opposite way around.For me, the clunkiest bit is having backgrounds somewhere else. I think they would be better placed between Race and Class. Why? Because backgrounds give you set skill proficiencies while classes give you skill proficiency choices. I made about 17 characters in a row and found it more efficient to select a background first to make sure that I was not doubling up on skill proficiencies.
Until they develop a way to hyperlink everything in the book and read multiple sections at once despite it being made of paper I think this is as good as it's going to get.
I think its creation was predicated on the idea that in practice most people would be using a digital version of the information while they play. The book is for people who like to have a big book to browse through and appreciate as an object. Considering the state of the publishing industry and that the book seems to have sold out, this was probably a good approach.
No mention yet of the thoroughly excellent index?!?!?
For me, the clunkiest bit is having backgrounds somewhere else. I think they would be better placed between Race and Class. Why? Because backgrounds give you set skill proficiencies while classes give you skill proficiency choices. I made about 17 characters in a row and found it more efficient to select a background first to make sure that I was not doubling up on skill proficiencies.
That and I think some tags on the spell lists (like "B" for bonus action casting, as well as something to denote rituals and reactions) would be very useful.
Other than that, love the book!