Action Points?

[Vigwyn the Unruly]

So, I'm considering adding action points to my game. I understand this comes in several flavors (among them Eberron and Unearthed Arcana).

Which is the best version, and why?

 

[Patryn of Elvenshae]

I've played with two versions: Eberron and a "homebrew mongrel."

I generally like the Eberron version, but one aspect of the homebrew mongrel system was that you could reroll your die entirely, rather than just modifying it.

I've considered adding that option to the Eberron system at a 2 action point cost.

 

[Jdvn1]

I also like the Eberron version... maybe it's because the whole setting has a more swashbuckling feel. I do recommend that you add more options for using the Action Points, though.

 

[AdmundfortGeographer]

I think the Black Company Campaign Sourcebook and Grim Tales each have their own unique take on Action Points as well.

 

[Scion]

I use a version that is based off of charisma and refreshes daily. So far it has worked out incredibly well. No problems at all so far. (in case it matters, half level + cha mod rounded down)

I absolutely 'hate' the refresh per level option. To me that is akin to giving the fighter X number of hp and saying, 'well, hope you gain a level before they run out' or a caster X number of spell levels to cast, same phrase. Especially with the feats that use the action points or classes that use action points. 'sorry, you cant use your feats or class abilities until next level, yeah I know it sucks to be you'

Until I have some major problem with the daily refresh I'll leave it as is (characters who put in the effort to have a lot tend to pick up feats to use options that use a lot, so it is selfbalancing, along with not knowing the success/failure of the roll ahead of time and the number added being variable)

 

[Aust Diamondew]

I use an ebberon style system. Except your number of action points equals half your charisma score (not modifier the score itself) plus half your level. This gives charisma some sort of statistical combat related benefit and I like the flavor of it.

 

[Elephant]

I use an ebberon style system. Except your number of action points equals half your charisma score (not modifier the score itself) plus half your level. This gives charisma some sort of statistical combat related benefit and I like the flavor of it.

"Ebberon"? You must be a Dungeon magazine reader

Anyway, I like the idea of making CHA significant for the action points. I think I'll steal that idea for my upcoming LW campaign.

 

[Aust Diamondew]

Cool I like it when people use my ideas. But I actually don't subscribe to dungeon or dragon I just like doubling up on letters.