Bard +1 caster level house rule

[Malin Genie]

Given that a Bard caster level is (at least arguably) weaker than a "full-caster-class" (Clr/Drd/Wiz/Sor) caster level, with higher skills, Bardic music and Bardic knowledge to 'compensate', what do people think of the following House Rule:

When taking a level in a Prestige Class that offers +1 caster level advancement, a Bard may choose one of the following additional benefits: take 2 free ranks in skills from the Bard skill list, a +1 adjustment to Bardic Knowledge rolls, or one extra use/day of Bardic music.

Thanks in advance for any comments!

 

[Ratama]

Why not all three?

Do you use any house rules for Bards IYC?

The only change I would make would be that Bards couldn't take use their bonus skills ranks in any Exclusive skills that the PrC didn't also have access to (UMD, to be specific).

 

[Malin Genie]

Why not all three?

I thought that might be a bit much, as all spellcasting classes (except sorcerors) give up *something* non-spell-related (undead turning, wildshape, bonus metamagic feats...)

Do you use any house rules for Bards IYC?

No. Although as the player of a bard in at least one game I'm looking forward to seeing what changes 3.5e makes (6+INT skill points, please...! Even with 16 Int I'm way short on skills!)

The only change I would make would be that Bards couldn't take use their bonus skills ranks in any Exclusive skills that the PrC didn't also have access to (UMD, to be specific).

The main reason for the skills was that by taking that option every 2nd level the Bard could keep Perform maximised, and then choose music or BK every other level.

 

[AdamBank]

No. Although as the player of a bard in at least one game I'm looking forward to seeing what changes 3.5e makes (6+INT skill points, please...! Even with 16 Int I'm way short on skills!)

Agreed; we've house ruled that bards get 4 + 2 + INT mod, the +2 being "dedicated" to CHA-modified Skills only.