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Message: <blockquote data-quote="Rathyr" data-source="post: 5102519" data-attributes="member: 88334">I'm of the opinion that the +hp backgrounds are too powerful, moreso because they are active at *level 1*. Worst case scenario: A rogue/ranger gaining +10 hp at the first level (starting with 20 Dex is not that uncommon for these classes) is not balanced. Any class that keys off Int or Dex as their primary attack stat not only gains significant AC bonuses, but also hitpoints. Granted, not every class can do this, but getting +hp off your primary stat that is already increasing:1.) Your chance to hit2.) Your damage3.) Your ACis a joke. Fact of the matter is the "normal" backgrounds do not scale, and typically don't even match a feat of equivelent power. I would not allow any but the PHB2 backgrounds in my game. Backgrounds are supposed to be minor increases in power, and unless the HPs gained from the background was <=5, I would rule that it was too strong. Whats more, I wouldnt let it wouldn't scale. HPs have a concrete effect in every combat encounter. They also increase the value of your surges. I dont think gaining 5-10 HPs as a background at level one is balanced game design. As a DM, I would feel the need to increase damage to compensate for this, and thats a bad sign at level 1. If you let initiative, AC, or surges suddenly key off a different stat and available to every class, the balance of the game becomes fairly shakey, and players are gaining benefits for things they havent paid for. If you don't invest in Con, you should be more squishy, OR HAVE TO SPEND FEATS TO MAKE UP FOR IT. Also, Windrise Ports is beyond silly. MCing is already opening up a can of worms. Hybrids shouldnt be able to MC, and no class should be able to MC more than once (bards twice). MCing more than once to me screams powergamer. Gaining access to feats from 4 classes is just... urg. Exceptions to the rules need to be limited in nature. You would need a mighty interesting background for be able to justify that.</blockquote>

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