OK guys, I didn't want this thread to cause any friction between members, I apologise.
Let me see if I can "set the rules in stone" as it were.
1. The comparison is between a core build and non-core build. For this purpose, core assumes PHB material only, although a LA0 race with no racial HD from the MM1 are acceptable. Non-core assumes only WotC materials (i.e. no 3rd party or homebrew). Also, please stick with 3.5 material, or 3E material that has official errata updating it to 3.5
2. The point is for maximum damage in a single round as delivered by melee weapons (full round actions are fine). For this purpose, let us count unarmed attacks and natural attacks as weapons. It also assumes that all attacks succeed and are criticals. Finally, assume that the character is already in "combat mode" with weapons drawn, as is the opponent.
3. I would prefer that rounds of buffing didn't occur, as this is not truly representative of 1 round of combat, since the character has invested multiple rounds of buffing. Although, spells which buff for a relatively long amount of time like a minute or more should be OK, as these can be assumed to have been cast before combat began.
4. For this exercise, assume that the character is solo, and not get buffed or aided by another individual. Ideally this would mean no mounts, animal companions etc, but if they are within the means of a 1st level character, then they may be counted.
5. Please try to avoid damage that relies on a situational modifier, such as the opponent charging, combat taking place next to a 200 foot drop, opponent being of a certain race etc. Let's just assume we are talking about a toe to toe melee round with a generic opponent.
6. Please doon't read any more into this comparison than what is there. It is not meant to be a slur again non-core materials. In fact, it is not meant to be anything other than a simple number crunch. Please don't stress or get upset about it, it's just a silly little discussion.
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