Drow as PC

[Andion Isurand]

Well, it will depend on whether the new update will borrow from Greyhawk or FR in determing this specific detail.

Besides, why should social circumstances (abstract) determine biological traits (concrete)?

I'm sure that the drow are not the only race/society with gender biases.

 

[Wormwood]

Besides, why should social circumstances (abstract) determine biological traits (concrete)?

The Sacred Cow cares not for game balance or internal consistency! Mooooo.

 

[reichtfeld]

I think Dragon #298 is a must for anyone planning to play a drow or for a DM that plans to use them in a game. I've never read any D&D novels so perhaps they are very insightful, but the article in Dragon #298 really hammered home for me just how evil and sinister the drow are. If you haven't read the article then it's a must; learn why there are so few drow twins born. It all really hammers home what the race is all about. They are damned in a very unique way: by the Sendarine, by Lolth, and by their cruel environment in the Underdark. The psychology of the race can be absolutely fascinating to explore with a character no matter what his/her personal allegiances are.

One thing I always remind my friends is that if there are half-drow and half-orcs in the world then that means the social dynamics are a bit more complex then "Mooks! Let's get 'em!" Depending on your personality, the DM, the gameworld, and the location, playing a drow or half-drow might be fun or grating.

From a min/max perspective you have to ask yourself whether you'd like to trade 2 levels for 120' darkvision and SR as a drow. In the case of spellcasters that's a big debate. Personally, I'd rather have the caster levels. For fighters I wouldn't hesitate very long to trade the BAB and a feat or two for the darkvision and SR, especially when their saves are nothing to shout about. 120' darkvision + longbow = cheese