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Message: <blockquote data-quote="The Crimson Binome" data-source="post: 7205295" data-attributes="member: 6775031">In 5E (or GURPS), we don't have to guess, because the books tell us what part of the game is essential to the core and which parts are designed to be optional. In 5E, at least, there are two different parameters by which something may or may not be allowed - some things are not considered to be optional (without getting into house rule territory), but some things are both optional and assumed to be included. They actually go over this whole topic... somewhere... probably in the DMG.<ul> <li data-xf-list-type="ul">Feats are optional and unassumed. Never bring a character with feats to an unknown game unless the DM specifically tells you that this option is in effect. Even then, individual feats are still optional, and can be included or discluded by the DM (or setting designer) as they see fit.</li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul">Multiclassing is optional and unassumed, as with feats. The DM has every right to say that paladin/warlock is specifically disallowed, if that makes sense for their setting.</li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul">The class construct is not considered optional. Every single class in the game is individually optional, but assumed. Unless the DM (or setting designer) specifically says otherwise, you can probably play a monk or warlock or whatever.</li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul">The race construct is not considered optional. Each individual race is optional, but only the common races are necessarily assumed. If you want to play a gnome or half-orc, you should ask first. Regardless, any specific race may be disallowed by the DM (or setting designer).</li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul">The background construct appears to be optional, but assumed. You don't have to pick a background, but if you don't, then you still have to pick the features that would otherwise come from your background.</li> </ul>This is the intent of the designers, which they have codified in the rulebook. In theory, that means we should all be on the same page about this, and anyone who assumes feats by default is being a self-entitled jerk. In practice, it operates a lot more like an echo chamber: players use the options they want, and play with others who use those options, so their personal experience teaches them that those options are considered normal, and they very reasonably expect those options by default. It's a type of cognitive bias for which few people practice compensating.</blockquote>

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