Playing D&D with only the PHB

[an_idol_mind]

I ran my first 3rd edition game before either the DM's Guide or the Monster Manual came out. I remember using the orcs and hell hounds that were presented in the back of the Player's Handbook, and the rest of the foes were adventurer characters. I didn't need the DM's Guide to figure out magic items (a +1 sword or a ring of protection works the same in every edition). For experience, I determined how well the game went, and gave the PCs an appropriate award for the session (usually 30-50% of what they needed to reach a new level). As the other books were released, certain aspects got added into the setting -- a shadowdancer NPC appeared after the DM's Guide came out, and monsters like ankhegs, ettercaps, and a bodak villain were introduced after the Monster Manual hit the stands. Other than that, there wasn't any feeling of a huge transition, and the game ran smoothly even when it was just the Player's Handbook.

 

[Turjan]

the frist 3.o PHB also had xp tables up to 10th level and a few magic items ..so yeah u could use just it we did

Yes, it was called the "2000 Survival Kit". The magic item section was quite extensive, even if condensed. You also had treasure tables, traps, tips on dungeon design, etc.

 

[Desdichado]

So they can spot the monster creeping up behind the PCs?
So the PCs can kill them and take their stuff?
So the PCs can kill them while they're trying to warn them of the monsters creeping up behind the PCs?

I can (and do) do all of those things without statting them up. I believe there's a rule of Dungeoncraft that covers situations where you don't have handy stats very well.

 

[Tonguez]

And there would be half-orcs, but no orcs!

Actually I do ths IMC

The Half-orc equivalent is a Human throwback tainted by the god of lizards