How many classes are enough?

[Aus_Snow]

If I were to consider a less minimalist approach, I'd have to start with some basic questions, like 'how free and easy is multiclassing?' and 'which game mechanics do you see as more properly being class features, and which ones feats?'. . . also, 'how many prestige classes are in the mix, how freely available are they, and which ones in particular are in or out?'

Also, there will be a bit of a difference between how core 3e and core Pathfinder play, just in terms of classes. So, a definite choice of one or the other would be necessary before going any further.

Arcana Unearthed (or, if going 3.5-ish, Arcana Evolved) throws even more stuff into the mix, that's for sure. I'd only use one of the two magic systems (that one or 3e's), personally. Classes, perhaps some of each. Races, 3e only, for my money (depending on campaign style, I guess).

 

[Greg K]

I should have added in my previous post that the other option is to go the True20 Revised approach: 3 very generic roles (classes) + a system for creating your own in which case I could get by with 5 or 6

Adept:
Expert
Warrior
Physical Adept: an expert/adept hybrid for bards, monks, mage thieves, etc.
Warrior Adept: a warrior adept hybrid for Holy Warriors, Warrior Mages, etc.
? : warrior/expert hybrid.