Level Adjustment -1?

[Aaron2]

So, if I wanted to increase the weak creature's HD, without a class or a paragon, how do you do it? I've never understood that section of the Monster Manual.

Yes, you can add a HD of "humanoid" or any other monster hit die to any monster. Their is a problem with creatures of just one hit die but that is more a holdover from 3e when humanoid monsters weren't listed as warriors. I have no problem with a creature with one hit die adding that die to their levels. The hit dice are worth less than an actual class level so can be used to offset some things that would normally grant a LA. Construct, Ooze, Plant and Vermin hit die are the worst. Abberation, animal and beast a close second, while Dragon and outsider are good (probably worth a normal level). Its not an exact science.

About a year ago, a poster named "Soldarin" came up with an ECL calculator (this is pre-savage species)

http://csserver.evansville.edu/~jc84/DD3/Monster_ECL.htm

I think its still for 3.0 so some converting may be needed. I also think he undervalues hit die.


Aaron

 

[the Jester]

There's a pc kobold in my low- (well, now kinda mid-) level halfling game. The player approached me about it. Our conversation went something like this:

Player: Hey, I was thinking about playing a kobold, but they kind of suck... would they be, like, LA -1 or something?

Me: (laughs) Yeah, they suck. They're kobolds. Suck it up, buddy. Or you could play a halfling, like most everyone else.

Player: Okay, I'll suck it up.

Now he's having a blast, and I don't think he's ever felt like his character really suffers for being a kobold. It's led to great roleplaying and a lot of fun for everyone. I wouldn't worry about him being too underpowered- if he capitalizes on the kobold's strengths, he'll do fine.

 

[Gort]

Yeah, if kobolds were as powerful as half-ogres, would they have the same charm? Probably not.

Part of the fun of playing one is to be cheerful about your own weakness! Don't take that away!

 

[howandwhy99]

I really wish I could find that thread. It was very good reading...

I think this is what you're looking for:

http://www.enworld.org/forums/showthread.php?t=82688