Why do we need thieves??

[Thomas Shey]

Given the amount of TTRPG's that don't have thieves, I'd say we don't need them.
Even DnD relegated thieves to a sub-class.

I have to note that most games that don't have them, do so because they're already subsumed in either the general system, or other character structures.

 

[Micah Sweet]

I think "skill-based" in this paragraph is a bit of a misnomer. In many (probably most but I don't have any statistics) games, combat and magic are skills. I think you specifically mean infiltration skills (stealth, lockpicking, climbing, swimming, etc.)

No, I mean any skills not directly associated with physical combat, magic or technology (in a utilitarian role similar to magic). So infiltration skills, but also social skills, trade skills, and exploration skills outside of infiltration (like navigation, vehicles, and survival).

 

[dragoner]

I remember Traveller being "not OSR" because it has skills.

 

[Older Beholder]

I have to note that most games that don't have them, do so because they're already subsumed in either the general system, or other character structures.

Yeah, you’re right. The more I looked into the games I was thinking about, things like, Tales from the Loop even has a ‘Troublemaker’

I still wouldn’t say all games need them, but ‘scoundrel’ is a common archetype for hero/anti-heroes, for sure.