Going back to the original post - I'm a fan of 3rd level subclasses. But some people want subclass 1st elvel, and for me that would need to go hand-in-hand with a multiclassing solution that prevents cherry-picking from being overpowered at any level (low and high).
So, for the purposes of this thread, can we discuss how to either prevent cherrypicking or to ensure that multiclassing a 1st or 2nd level of a class does not provide more power than advancing a class you already have while still granting subclass at 1st.
As long as levels 5/11/17 are more powerful than level 1, it will be very difficult to have multiclassing be more powerful than a base class.
Also, as long as the power difference isn't huge. I really have no problem with multiclassing being a little better.
If some combination of classes deals 5% more damage, then that's a little reward for those who get into the game more.
If some combination of classes deals 50% more damage, then that's bad for the game.
As far a limiting choices at 1 to help new players. I like more choices
and I like new players....
I would probably have to lean on the side of new players. Including having casters start with a pre-selected set of spells, pre-selected equipment, spell preparation at level 2, and then subclass at level 3.
Lets move the complexity to higher levels and encourage more experience gamers to start at higher levels.
A first subclass at 3, 6, 9. And the a second subclass at level 13, 16, 19 would be cool. Including taking a second on in your class as well as some multiclass - sub classes.
So you could have a rogue that takes arcane trickster at 3, 6, 9 and then assassin at 13, 16, 19.
Or a rogue that takes ranger at 3, 6, 9 and bard at 13, 16, 19.