Ability Score Adjustments

[cavalier973]

For Basic D&D (Moldvay, etc.), is there any point to increasing a character's ability score (via the ability adjustment rules--subtract 2 from some other ability to increase by 1 the prime requisite score) within the same range? For example, is there any point to increasing a character's STR from 10 to 12?

 

[Olgar Shiverstone]

Not really, unless you're counting on an ability score increase down the road somehow.

 

[cavalier973]

Not really, unless you're counting on an ability score increase down the road somehow.

I did not realize that was an option with B/X D&D. Perhaps I should read the Expert Rules.

 

[pemerton]

I did not realize that was an option with B/X D&D. Perhaps I should read the Expert Rules.

There is nothing analogous to 3E, 4e and 5e ability-boosts-with-level. But there can be magic pools, magic items etc that change ability scores.

Also, some action resolution in B/X involves rolling under a stat (a precursor to DSG/WSG/2nd ed non-weapon prof mechanics), which can give a reason to favour a higher stat within a bonus range.

 

[Ultramegolas]

It's an option to help the player get a bigger prime requisite to either meet the requirement of a chosen class or get that tasty XP bonus.

 

[ExploderWizard]

Also, some action resolution in B/X involves rolling under a stat (a precursor to DSG/WSG/2nd ed non-weapon prof mechanics), which can give a reason to favour a higher stat within a bonus range.

This one can be fairly important, especially with scores that fall between 9 and 12 and otherwise give no tangible bonus to anything. The difference between having an unmodified 45% and 60% chance to succeed at something is pretty major especially over the course of many rolls.

 

[Wik]

It's also good as a defensive measure. A stat of 10 is better than 9 simply because at some point, you could get a 1 point level drain, and it's better to stay in your current category. I had a thief that got dropped from 12 int to 9 int... and was super glad that I hadn't lost anything as a result.

Those magic pools tend to crop up in BECMI...