Refresher on Prestige classes

[ZuulMoG]

Ranks means number of actual ranks in it, not just the overall skill bonus. So if a Prestige Class required 8 ranks in Swim, a Fighter would need to be level 5 and have put max ranks in it, for example. His strength is irrelevant.

Ok, follow-up question...

Why?

Does it make sense for a 'gifted' character to advance as slowly as a 'retarded' one? Should not someone with a +4 modifier to a skill be ready to take on a PrC that requires it before someone with a -2 modifier in that skill? Has there been any attempt to address this?

Never bring a problem to the table without a solution to propose, right? How about this: lower the skill 'ranks' requirement by 1 for all PrC's and Feats for every point of ability modifier (permanent, not from temporary effect or magical items) over 2? IE, if the mod is +5, 3 less ranks are needed to join the class or gain the feat.

 

[Storyteller01]

Ok, follow-up question...

Why?

Does it make sense for a 'gifted' character to advance as slowly as a 'retarded' one? Should not someone with a +4 modifier to a skill be ready to take on a PrC that requires it before someone with a -2 modifier in that skill? Has there been any attempt to address this?

Yep. A talented individual may not understand the principles behind what they're doing; There just good at it. Ask a pro athlete how they do what they do. Rookies will tell you 'practice'. Veterans can break down the technique.

Then there's 'Good Will Hunting'. Will didn't know why he was good at the math, just that he could follow the patterns.

Having the base rank set shows the requisite level of fundamental understanding to proceed further.

YMMV

 

[Thanee]

Why?

Because it is not logic, but balance, which those numbers are borne from.

The number of skill ranks is a factor, of which directly a minimum character level can be derived. In fact, it's often just a character level requirement in disguise with some added flavor, of course.

Bye
Thanee