Need a d20 system that does NOT require core rules

[Von Ether]

For some, Spycraft has more appeal and it's a more focused product (a common comment to be heard is "if you want espionage or action movies, check out SC. Otherwise look into d20M.)

The game was also rebuilt from the group up for firearm combat, where in d20 Modern it was sort of shoe horn in.

 

[beta-ray]

Not to throw off this entire thread, but I am kind of curious as to why your friend wants to use the D20 rules set if he is trying to avoid a lot of the trappings? Is he just comfy with it?

(sorry I don't really have anything to add since I think most people already mentioned the good ones)

 

[Impeesa]

I should point out that some d20 games - such as Spycraft, which has already been mentioned and comes highly recommended - are basically stand alone if you already know how to create and level up a character. All you have to do is remember the formula for the xp table (minimum xp for level N is (N-1)*N*500).

--Impeesa--

 

[nyrfherdr]

I didnt' see it mentioned, but Grim Tales from Bad Axe Games is available.
It could be used on it's own to create a Campaign, or used with other d20 sources depending on how much work the DM wants to put into it.

 

[Frost]

I didnt' see it mentioned, but Grim Tales from Bad Axe Games is available.
It could be used on it's own to create a Campaign, or used with other d20 sources depending on how much work the DM wants to put into it.

Yep, if I wanted a non-D&D d20 system, I would go with Grim Tales.... which came be used for past, present, or future settings.