I do a slightly different method of "replenishing" action points.
First, I do exactly what the book says - they get X plus 1/2 their level each time they gain a new level.
Then, during the game session, I hand out Playing Cards (where one Playing Card = 1 Action Point) for insane character development/roleplaying, quick thinking, funny one-liners, etc. Basically, anything that enhances the roleplaying experience earns you a Playing Card.
Finally, I incorporate a couple of "special rules" in regards to the Playing Cards. For example, you can pass one of your Playing Cards to another player because you really enjoyed something they did. This nets you a +2 to your next two D20 rolls, and the receiving party gains a Playing Card. This also encourages better teamwork and consideration between gamers.
Another thing we do is "play Poker" with the Playing Cards. For example, you can gain special bonuses by "turning in" your Poker Hand (5 Playing Cards) to the GM, like a full house allows you to automatically confirm a critical hit.
Yeah, it can get "unbalancing" at times, and there are loopholes to exploit, but the gamers realize that it's done for the benefit of the gaming experience, so it doesn't happen....too often.
Oh, and you have to turn in any unspent Playing Cards at the end of each session, and that increases your current Action Point total by that amount. However, my players rarely allow a session to end with unused Playing Cards.
Just thought I should weigh in here.
Peterson
