XP and OGL

[bramadan]

OK, I know that XP rules are sort of of the limit for the OGL stuff but I am wondering where the line on that is drawn.
For example if want to give advice as to XP awards in adventure I write is that kosher.
Also if I am writing a new d20 game and want to use standard XP table but get rid of the whole encounter-ECL-XP loop and replace it with, say, XP per idea system, would I be allowed to do that.
I am not speaking about reproducing the DMG rules or even level table from PHB but am wondering is any mention of XP in the OGL work entirely unacceptable.

 

[nsruf]

AFAIK the only thing you are not allowed to publish are rules for character creation and advancement - just awarding XP would be ok. But I am by no means an expert!

Maybe you should ask this question on the d20 publisher's forum. Chance is, the "regulars" over there will know more about it.

 

[333 Dave]

From the d20 System Guide:
Definition of Applying the effects of Experience to a Character:

Applying the effects of Experience to a Character means a description of the process for comparing the accumulated experience point total of a character to a chart to determine if the character's level should be incremented. If the experience level of a character exceeds threshold values as defined by the chart, the character is modified in a specified fashion.

Specifically, Applying the effects of Experience to a Character means incrementing the character level of a character by incrementing a class level by one rank, or by adding a new class at first level, and describing how to allocate new skill points, select new feats, or gain new class-level linked abilities.

Applying the effects of Experience to a Character does not include creating or modifying an experience point chart, defining a new class (including describing what benefits that class provides at each level).

I don't see anyrestriction against how to give out XP, but if I were you I'd ask a lawyer (like Orcus) or even WotC. Of course, if you go with just the OGL but not the d20 liscense, you can do whatever you want with XP.

 

[Ranger REG]

Awarding XP, like role-playing and/or ingenuity is okay.

Using a different XP-level table (XP chart) is also okay.

Describing how to apply the XP to the character (i.e., what happens when the character accumulate enough XP to advance) is NOT okay. Nor is describing how to use the XP-level table (if using your own).

 

[Lizard]

OK, I know that XP rules are sort of of the limit for the OGL stuff

You can talk about XP in an OGL work all you want.

You're thinking of the D20 License.