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Message: <blockquote data-quote="haiiro" data-source="post: 784549" data-attributes="member: 1891">Quip: I like the bonuses to saves vs. fear -- it seems like a good implementation of a setting-specific cultural trait. If I wind up taking the half-orc in a direction that is more tied to a particular setting, I might use something just like that. Thanks. <img src="https://cdn.jsdelivr.net/joypixels/assets/8.0/png/unicode/64/1f642.png" class="smilie smilie--emoji" loading="lazy" width="64" height="64" alt=":)" title="Smile    :)"  data-smilie="1"data-shortname=":)" />Andion: This is the most conservative half-orc variant so far, and given the general opinions expressed so far about my proposed variant, I think this is probably the right idea.I'm starting to see why people consider +2 STR/-2 INT, -2 CHA to be balanced (or even consider that trade-off a bonus), and I think dropping it back to +2 STR/-2 CHA and treating that as a significant "special ability" is probably a good idea. Allowing half-orcs the same favored class versatility as humans is also an easy fix, although it removes a bit of their flavor.The only thing I don't like about your variant is the nonstandard base speed, as both parent races have a base speed of 30 feet. If I were to change it, I'd drop that in favor of a +1 or +2 to Intimidate checks (which adds some flavor as well).Mike: I think your variant would be interesting for certain types of campaign, but takes the half-orc too far from its PHB role for my liking. It does neatly sidestep the whole STR issue, though.Technik4: I like the idea of offering a choice between skill bonuses, and both options make sense (depending on character background). I also see where you're coming from with regards to half-orcs still being popular despite their flaws -- my first 3e character was a half-orc, and he was brutal in melee combat. The STR bonus makes a huge difference, but I do think the double penalty pigeonholes the half-orc a bit more than necessary.Thanks to all who have responded so far. <img src="https://cdn.jsdelivr.net/joypixels/assets/8.0/png/unicode/64/1f642.png" class="smilie smilie--emoji" loading="lazy" width="64" height="64" alt=":)" title="Smile    :)"  data-smilie="1"data-shortname=":)" /> Here's another take on the half-orc, this time based more on Andion's version:Half-Orcs:- +2 STR, -2 CHA- Medium size- Base speed 30 ft.- +2 bonus to Intimidate checks- Orc blood- Darkvision- Automatic languages: Common and Orc- Bonus languages: Draconic, Giant, Gnoll, Goblin, and Abyssal- Favored class: BarbarianEven for a melee fighter, I think the choice between half-orc and human is not a clear one (which is a good thing). A damage-oriented fighter would likely go with half-orc, while a maneuver/feat-based fighter might go with human. If I were to swap back in the additional -2 INT, this distinction is highlighted (as INT helps with certain martial feats, and the additional skill point hit could make a difference).What do you think (of this one, the old one, or both)?</blockquote>

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