Old School Campaigns

[S'mon]

d6-based stat checks:

One problem with OD&D is that the usual d20-roll-under-stat check doesn't handle variable difficulty well. However, there is actually a core d6-based mechanic buried in various stat descriptions such as open doors rolls (STR), here it is harmonised for my LL game:
d6-based Ability Checks:
In classic versions of D&D, most checks were d6-based (surprise, hear noise, open doors, et al), so this is a return to those roots.

Every stat has a bonus as per STR (3: -3 4-5: -2 6-8: -1 13-15: +1 16-17: +2 18: +3).

STR bonus applies to open doors etc, base 1 in 6.
DEX bonus applies to balance, climb, checks etc, base 1 in 6.
CON bonus applies to endurance checks, base 1 in 6.
INT bonus applies to knowledge/decipher checks, base 1 in 6.
WIS bonus applies to d6 *spot*/search/hear noise (inc Thief ability) roll, base 1 in 6.
CHA bonus applies to persuasion etc rolls, base 1 in 6.

Because it's d6-based the stat bonus is a major factor, but it also handles variable difficulty easily. Default for difficult task (detect secret door) is base 1 in 6, but a task that most people would succeed at half the time can be given a base 3 in 6, so an '18' succeeds automatically.

 

[Oni]

I too started on 2nd ed and then of course moved to later editions. I found out about
retro clones and made me interested in the old school systems. Now, BECM is my
game of choice (used to be C&C).
Why don't you download Labyrinth Lord or OSRIC and recommend them to friends. Its "in print"
and easily accessible (free). Gathering new players should be no problem. Stop
being jealous and start rolling 3d6 in order

Thanks for the suggestions, I didn't know there was something like that available. I'd been thinking about buying some of the pdf's from the older versions from Paizo, but had been hesitant becaue I wasn't sure if I'd like them or not. I'm eager to get a better idea of the systems.

 

[Gwaihir]

Sigh...
I keep trying to get my group to play AD&D, but they are SOLD on 3.5 with Gestalt Characters...

 

[mmadsen]

I find the old-style games' simplicity & GM discretion are much better for PBEM/PBP play than more complex, battleboard-centric games like 3e.

Agreed, but I decided to use a stripped-down d20, rather than Basic D&D for my rules -- old-school spirit with new-school mechanics.

 

[bagger245]

Agreed, but I decided to use a stripped-down d20, rather than Basic D&D for my rules -- old-school spirit with new-school mechanics.

Have you checked C&C? Or are you playing that already? How's your campaign like?

 

[mmadsen]

Have you checked C&C? Or are you playing that already? How's your campaign like?

I can't say I'm an expert on C&C, but what I read about it didn't particularly interest me, because I was never a huge fan of AD&D's mechanics.

As I said, my game's been using some very stripped-down d20 mechanics:

• Everything's a skill, including melee combat, ranged combat, the three saves, and caster level.
• The skill list has been condensed considerably.
• Each class has primary skills, which get +1 per level, and secondary skills, which get +1/2 per level.
• "First level" is now fourth level.
• AC and hp are replaced by two quasi-saves Defense (based on Ref) and Toughness (based on Fort).