Forked Thread: PC concept limitations in 4e

[ExploderWizard]

I think we have different definitions of "transparent choices" and I'm not explaining what I mean by that well enough. I'm not even sure I'm using a good term here. I'm trying to say that some choices in 3E were hidden duds, while I feel the bad choices you could make in 4E (causing a situation where your PC is MAD) are easier to see.

As a Basic fan why are you arguing the limitations of 4E? When Basic is by its very nature the most limited form of D&D since OD&D (not that it is a bad game by any means).

Transparent:
4.easily seen through, recognized, or detected: transparent excuses. 5.manifest; obvious: a story with a transparent plot.

I think these definitions pretty much sum up a transparent choice. The first given definition covers character choices well in regard to the measured reduction of hit points +/- minor effect as the end result of those choices.

The second given definition applies to character choice as it relates to the efficiency of selecting powers and feats for maximum performance of those activities defined in the first given definition.

One person's dud was another's treasure. While I am not a huge fan of a zillion character builds, it helps if at least some of them are not combat/power focused.

The limitations of Basic/OD&D are mostly limited to the amount of mandatory complexity. The game can be played as simply or as complex as the participants desire.