D&D 4E Ideas for 4e Gestalt (dual class)

[Shennissari]

My friends and I are trying to develop a means with which to create gestalt characters in 4e similar to those in the 3.5 Unearthed Arcana rules. For those of you who don't know what gestalt is, its when a player takes 2 classes and takes the best of both.

The main purpose in this particular situation is to provide a way through which 2 (or 3) players can gain the powers and versatility of a fully party. Obviously it can be used to create high powered variant PC's for high powered or unique campaigns. Some ideas I have so far:

1.) Players choose two classes, take both both save bonuses, highest weapon/ armor proficiency, and highest hp/surges.

2.) Take all class features of both classes.

3.) Choose number of classes skills equal to both classes combined or some sort of compromising number like 1.5 times the max for best class.

4.) Choose either twice as many powers or choose between the classes . . . I can't decide. Possibly having powers of both but only being able to use 1 of each level per encounter/day.

5.) Two paragons/epic destinies.

I'd appreciate any input, opinions, or advice. This is obviously a high powered and fun variant but I'm not trying to break 4e and play as gods. I'd like to come up with appropriate challenge ratings so if you have any ideas on that either let me know.

 

[77IM]

I'd add the class skills, hit points, and powers from both classes. Sure, why not? 4 PCs with X hit points and Y powers should be roughly as effective as 2 PCs with 2X hit points and 2Y powers. I'd give them extra action points too: let's say, they start the day with 2 points and gain 1 per encounter, and there's no limit to how many they can use in a single encounter. Also, give them +2 to all saving throws.

Viola! Your PCs are now Elite creatures. Count them double when calculating encounter XP budgets (so 3 Elite PCs would be facing an encounter suitable for 6 normal PCs), but they get half XP (so 3 Elite PCs would each get 1/6 the XP rather than 1/3).

-- 77IM