My Group had an Epiphany!

[Irda Ranger]

Old school wasn't supposed to keep all characters balanced in all situations -- including combat. Combat was just one more area where a character may or may not excel.

Yeah, I know. But that leads to "Take Turns Having Fun" syndrome. Which while doable isn't optimal (IMO, obviously).

What I really want is a happy medium where different classes unquestionably shine at different times and in different ways, but no one is ever completely useless.

I'm working on this problem, and have some ideas. They're not ready for airing yet though.