PrC Entries - Sample NPCs, yes or no?

[Bacris]

So the new WotC PrC entry blocks have sample NPCs with fluff and whatnot at the end. What is the general consensus on if these are worthwhile?

Should they be in the text, a web enhancement download, or just not done at all? Or do you just flat out not care either way?

 

[Nifft]

If they did something OPTIMAL, or even something INTERESTING AND UNUSUAL, I'd be all for it -- even in the main book. Since they seem incapable of either, let's put these sub-standard NPCs in a web thing that won't interfere with my paid-for page count.

I'd enjoy monstrous NPCs much more than humanoids. The humanoids I can make myself, easily, thanks. But seeing a Succubus Blackguard 10 -- that's a cool idea, which I would not have thought up myself. That's what I'd like to pay for... (of course, that example came from a free message board...).

Cheers, -- N

 

[Psion]

I rather like them right with the main text. Just like creature templates, I think they should always have a sample. I mainly use human/humanoid opponents, and I like the ability to put cool new concepts right into play.

I will caveat that I don't think they need to be repeating ability descriptions that were on the previous page.

 

[frankthedm]

let's put these sub-standard NPCs in a web thing that won't interfere with my paid-for page count.

Those walking piles of free XP are good for a chuckle.

 

[Sigurd]

NPC's should reflect a setting not bulk out a rule set for making prcs. If the reader cant make his\her own pc's with the rules then let them go to the web where you have no space requirements.


Sigurd

 

[Voadam]

I like them, I've used ones from Complete Warrior, Call of Duty (by Chainmail Bikini), Complete Guide to Wererats (Goodman Games), and that assassin book by the Brood (published by EN Publishing).

Instantly useable NPCs for these niche concepts are a good resource I like.

 

[Seeker95]

My consensus is that PrCs need to be "gone" in 4e, along with 7 of the 11 "base" classes.
So I voted "Don't Care".

 

[2WS-Steve]

I will caveat that I don't think they need to be repeating ability descriptions that were on the previous page.

QFT

I also like having a new iconic associated with the class -- gives me an image to hang it on.

 

[Shadowslayer]

I'd actually put them in a "sample NPC" appendix at the back of a given book. But do they belong in the books? Hell yeah. I never say no to a good usable NPC. Say thankya.

Sorry, statting up NPCs sucks the fun out of game prep for me.

 

[arscott]

The samples tend to be very limited in their usefulness. Few are generic enough to be used more than once, if you use them at all. A few "hey, this is cool" examples, akin to the advanced monsters in the 3.5MM are okay, but having a sample NPC for every PrC you publish is just a waste of paper.