Reply to thread

Message: <blockquote data-quote="Beckett" data-source="post: 2554172" data-attributes="member: 781">I mostly go with 3.5's standard method.  For some reason, I like using the chart and doing the math.I will sometimes give story awards, usually if it will boost some of the characters to the next level.The only other bonus I gave was last year, when I was having a major problem with tardiness from two players.  I didn't want to start the game until they got there, as then I'd have to take time to work them in, but anyone who was present at the designated start time got bonus XPs.I give out experience whenever I feel like it, allowing leveling up at that time.  Before major fights and at the end of the session are the most common times; the first gives a chance that the PCs are a little stronger, the second means I don't have to keep track of the experience for a week.Related to that, before some major fights, I've allowed characters who are within X number of XPs of next level (typically 500-1000) to level up their characters.  Their experience stays the same, but in all others ways, they are treated as though they were the next level- including figuring out experience gained from the encounter.  IIRC, everytime those eligible accepted that they'd earn fewer XPs but be better prepared for the fight.My Star Wars games, the characters gain levels whenever I feel like it.</blockquote>