Don Durito
Hero
I don't allow alternate abilities with Intimidate because I just don't feel it makes a lot of sense. (But then I don't like the intimidate skill generally).
In 5E functionality is supposed to be primarily determined by abilities scores not skills. Intimidation is a function of Charisma - the skill just allows an added proficiency bonus.
I realised after a while that a lot of the situations in which one might roll Str(Intimidate) are usually situations where a roll is not necessary. If the barbarian with a bloody axe is looming over a goblin, then he is intimidating - he doesn't need to roll. I wouldn't 100% say never, but it's hard to think of a situation where a roll is actually needed, but force of personality is not the more important factor.
In any case, I'd much prefer (And think it is more in keeping with the way 5e is designed) to sometimes allow Cha(Athletics).
In 5E functionality is supposed to be primarily determined by abilities scores not skills. Intimidation is a function of Charisma - the skill just allows an added proficiency bonus.
I realised after a while that a lot of the situations in which one might roll Str(Intimidate) are usually situations where a roll is not necessary. If the barbarian with a bloody axe is looming over a goblin, then he is intimidating - he doesn't need to roll. I wouldn't 100% say never, but it's hard to think of a situation where a roll is actually needed, but force of personality is not the more important factor.
In any case, I'd much prefer (And think it is more in keeping with the way 5e is designed) to sometimes allow Cha(Athletics).