Whatcha do when you want give PC access to an ability/skill?

[Driddle]

Let's say you really want your PC to have access to a certain couple of skills (at standard cost) or ability not normally allowed in his class concept as defined by the standard rules -- WITHOUT being forced to multiclass.

How do you handle the change, if it's allowed at all: gained at the expenditure of a feat, or as zero-cost DM-approved swap for a skill/ability you've already got?

 

[Crothian]

Depends what the ability is.

 

[Merkuri]

Like Crothian said, it depends. Different DMs have different ways of handling stuff like this. One DM might ask you to spend a feat on it, one might let you swap out a standard class ability for a nonstandard one, and others might not allow it at all.

 

[hafrogman]

Number one feat I always think should have made it into the core rules, Versatile from OA. Adds two class skills to your list.

Abilities would be very different depending on power. Some are probably feat equal, while others it would be crazy to hand over without multiclassing. (I want my rogue to be able to cast spells like a cleric and have an animal companion and smite evil)

 

[WayneLigon]

How do you handle the change, if it's allowed at all: gained at the expenditure of a feat, or as zero-cost DM-approved swap for a skill/ability you've already got?

If I was the GM and really wanted them to have it, I'd just tell them 'check that off as a class skill for you'. I've done that a few times, such as one character that grew up on a ship. He got Rope Use as a class skill.

 

[EricNoah]

Sometimes I give it away, sometimes I leave it as an option on the table for them to take when they can "pay" for it. I might just say, "Add this feat" or "add this spell to your spell list." Back in the old days, it was all about what magic items you left lying around for the PCs to pick up -- that might work too -- a magic item that bestows a power permanently?