Alternate Class Features

[Sidekick]

Ooops, I thought it said do you USE the alt abilities so I voted sometimes.

I always allow it. I think our party rogue has the alternative class ability and previous rangers used to have the distracting strike thing.

 

[Greg K]

It depends. The alternate features that I allow are dependent on the campaign setting. In my current homebrew, I allow many of the UA variants and I'll allow a few from the PHB2. Honestly, outside of the WOTC variants that I currently allow, there are not many that I would allow- either they just do not fit the feel of the games that I run or I think they were pretty poor.

 

[EricNoah]

I encourage the use of alternative class features, and do so myself when I can. My paladin, for example, turns outsiders instead of undead, and gave up his mount to become better at turning.

 

[the Jester]

I might if a player was interested. I'd certainly look at the idea.

 

[sckeener]

I'd rather have Alternate Class Features than more prestige classes.

But I'm also a fan of skill based games over class based games.

 

[blargney the second]

Love them. The customizability is awesome.

 

[Psion]

I allow:

• Specialist variant class features from the Unearthed Arcana (recounted here)
• Substitution levels as appropriate to the campaign.
• Variant combat styles from FFG's Wildscape)

I am wary of the generic "swap out an ability" type things in PHBII and complete mage, but would consider them on a case-by-case basis. I prefer making the existing classes more flexible to making new classes, but I am cautious about the non-systematic nature of it.

 

[Felix]

I would allow them, and personally favor the variants that sacrifice either the Sorcerer's familiar or the Cleric's Undead Turning.

 

[Aust Diamondew]

We don't need them but since they've already done PRCs and feats to death they needed something else.

But yes I will allow them if a player asks and I don't think it hurts the game's flavor or game balance badly.

PS- I too prefer them to PRCs sckeener.

 

[Driddle]

Seems like they are popping up like mushrooms.

That's why I support a 'menu' system for character creation in the next game redesign. Heck, we're picking and choosing what we want anyway. Might as well be clear from the beginning.