Ahnehnois
First Post
I think you're not entirely wrong. I think part of a flattened math system could address these concerns though; instead of numbers increases as one levels up, more rerolls, take 10 and the like, and other nonlinear improvements.The problem with heavy d20-based skill systems is that they just don't really work.
The difference +1 makes is 5%. That means you have a 5% better chance to make the target number.
The difference an extra die makes when you need 3 successes in Exalted is 0.4 successes per die.
Even if you do a 3 stage graduated system of 2/4/6 that means that the best person in the entire world with swords has a 30% better chance to hit than Quincy the farmboy.
If you switch into 3E style of '1-20 hurr durr' you get all the flaws of 3E's skill system (including its wholesale slaughter of many roleplaying opportunities).
D20 is just not a great system to use with a skill-heavy system.
With regards to fighting there's also weapon proficiency, which provides an excuse to penalize Quincy the farmboy so the difference is greater than 30%, as well as ability scores (and if Quincy is a big farmboy with 18 Str, he ought to be at least somewhat dangerous).