Plaguescarred
Hero
D&D Next is about right for my taste, its not too simple or complex, but has the possibility to reduce or increase complexity due to its modularity by removing or adding stuff.
We don't really have a clue as to how much of the complexity we saw in the play-test packets was for material intended for optional modules.
Since no one here (unless they speak up) has ACTUALLY seen 'Next' as a final product. It is impossible to really answer the question. One can only guess...
The question was specifically about the final public playtest packet. Obviously nobody outside of the closed playtest has seen the current state of the game. In fact, I doubt even they get to see the current state.Since no one here (unless they speak up) has ACTUALLY seen 'Next' as a final product. It is impossible to really answer the question. One can only guess...
The question was specifically about the final public playtest packet. Obviously nobody outside of the closed playtest has seen the current state of the game. In fact, I doubt even they get to see the current state.
My own attitude is that the final packet is a shade too complex still. Characters having a new thing at every level doesn't bother me--I approve of that. But a lot of the mechanics are still rather clunky and need to be polished and streamlined. That's to be expected in a playtest, of course.
One example I would give is the distinction between ability saves and ability checks. Does this expand the design space? Sure. Does it expand it enough to warrant the confusion it will create for new and casual players? I'd say not. A saving throw should be a type of ability check, not a separate beast.
No, it really is a separate beast. If you look at "How To Play" (it's on the second page), you'll see that saving throws are broken out into their own section with no reference to the check rules. If you have something that gives you proficiency on Dexterity checks, it doesn't apply to Dexterity saves.Is it a separate beast? It's just an ability check, and you get to use your proficiency bonus if you are trained in saves of that ability. Which is how all other checks work. The name needs to be there in the same way "arcane check" needs to have that name, to know if you are proficient.
No, it really is a separate beast. If you look at "How To Play" (it's on the second page), you'll see that saving throws are broken out into their own section with no reference to the check rules. If you have something that gives you proficiency on Dexterity checks, it doesn't apply to Dexterity saves.