I started playing D&D before we even had dice to roll. For random number generation, Grunk, our DM at the time (we called him "CaveMaster") would hold his hands behind his back and we'd guess how many fingers he was holding - it was a very complicated system, so please don't ask me to elaborate. The character classes consisted of Sharp Stick Wielder, Rock Thrower, Fire Maker, Female, and Anyone Else Who Barely Survived Being Eaten By Hungry Creatures And Is Good For Nothing Except Keeping Caves Clean. (My Rock Thrower lived to 3rd level, which was considerd Legendary status back then.)
Boxed sets, bah! - You kids with your fancy-fangled "books" make me sick!