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Message: <blockquote data-quote="Remathilis" data-source="post: 5967217" data-attributes="member: 7635">There is a difference between optimizing and smart play. Optimization is the use of rules to find the "best combo" of options to do what you want. Basic only gave you 7 steps (roll scores, choose race, pick alignment, buy gear, select spells, roll hp, and name) and only one was based on a permanent choice. (Scores and HP were random rolls, equipment could be changed, and alignment was an RP tool with no mechanical advantage, though I guess spell choice for magic-users could count as well). Because of this, the only optimization you really had was matching your prime ability score to the class that it goes with, which was only advantageous in gaining bonus XP (since Dex did not affect thief skills and Int/Wis had no bearing on spellcasting). I guess you could argue the advantage of comparing demi-humans to normal humans, but the low level limits (12 dwarf, 10 elf, 8 halfling) and other disadvantages (halfling size and HP, elf XP progression, dwarf weapon restriction) didn't make them as superior as they first appeared on paper. Still, unless we're going back to the seven steps (and by all accounts no we're not, since at the very least race/class synergy is promised at a core rule) were class controls everything, its going to be hard to avoid some optimizing. From AD&D on its been prevalent.</blockquote>