Is there really a push to use everything you have?

[zoroaster100]

The main push I get is from the players in the game I run. Some (not all) like to go through various noncore books and find very powerful prestige classes, spells, feats, etc. and ask if they can take these. So far I have been able to say no to most of these when I felt they were overpowered, but at times there is pressure, as some players get frustrated when I say no to whatever they wanted to use.

 

[Glyfair]

So far I have been able to say no to most of these when I felt they were overpowered, but at times there is pressure, as some players get frustrated when I say no to whatever they wanted to use.

And I can understand this, to some degree. When I buy a book, I want to be able to use that book. If I'm stuck with only one or two available games, it becomes frustrating not to be able to use something. Especially if the DM comes across as the "won't allow anything because someone might be able to abuse it" (which is really a lot rarer than some players believe).

Still, communication is the solution here. If the players want to use something, have a campaign that will allow them (even if someone else runs that campaign).

 

[Nonlethal Force]

When I DM, I set the limits up front. [Typically Core + XPH + Modified MotP + Draconomicon + Complete series but no CPSi] I limit to this because these are the books I own and these are the books whose rules am intimate with. I don't like to DM using sources not available to my extended viewing pleasure whenever I want them. But that rule is established up front.

I also give the players the option of adding a source when I purchase a new one. If the players veto it, then I don't get to use it as aDM, either. If they embrace it, then its all cool. I also allow the rebuilding rules from PHB II to allow 1 change everythime they level, so adding new books can still be cool even if the characters could have benefitted more by something in the new book. They can rebuild their character in stages to see it fit what they want.

But then again, I don't complain about too many options. I personally don't like the Races of Books at all - or the Environment books like Stormwrack, etc. But I don't use them, either. And I don't complain if someone else does!

 

[Nightfall]

I'm all about the options...if it makes my Scarred Lands games better.