An interesting prospect

Well, we may be going back and doing an older version of D&D. Matt and Steve, two of our newest members of the gaming group have pretty limited vision into the D&D universe. Myself and Jason, veteran players of the older editions had spent a great deal of time on 2nd, though I dont believe jason dabbled much before that.

2nd edition - Stuffed solid full of cryptic rules, from Thac0 to differing xp alotment per character. The edition where there was no real creature balance, it was simply up to the DM to discern if the party could survive, and up to the party to discern if they should flee or fight.

Classes - Much different than those classes of today. High attributes gave you xp bonuses. Races dictated the maximum level of your character as well as what you could multiclass as. Your other special skills were determined by your non weapon prof. and the weapons you could use were determined by your weapon prof. The amount of these proficiencies were all determined by your class.

Core Classes - Unlike later versions of the games, 1st and 2nd stuck true to the 4 cornerstone classes. Fighter - Rogue - Wizard - Cleric. The sub categories of these, the Paladin, Druid, Bard, and Ranger were also very playable, but the core classes always had that something to make them a bit more survivable. And surviving in the 1st two editions was no easy task.

Our players - Well, I have decided on wizard. My core class among the older versions of D&D, and Matt has taken up the rogue. Jason, a noted cleric player will more than likely assume that role again. He's matured a great deal in his character development and it will be interesting to see what he could bring to the table as a cleric. Assuming he decides to show. But i'll not berate him on that. He's a friend and an old player, if he wants out i'll not jibe him on it. Steve, our newest member will be playing a fighter type hopefully, at least thats what i'll push. He's going to miss alot of sessions coming up, another reason that a switch from our last chronicle is necessary, and a good reason for him to craft a fighter type, as they are easy to run, but still extremely important.

Over All - I definitely need this. 4th edition is not my edition. It's fun, but in the way video games are fun. It scratches the surface on what RPG's can really achieve, and i think its a great start in game for new gamers, or those who really dont have alot of time to plan or develope. I like the older systems because theres more of a real threat. Every encounter could be your last, and although theres not the team aspect that 4th has, the element exists, though not as defined. The wizard overcomes obstacles or makes them easier to overcome. The cleric has a number of problem solving spells, is a battery of healing energy, and can take a few round in melee. The rogue is the only thing that stands between deadly traps and the party, is the only thing that stands between ambush and a party, and is easily the most overlooked and useful member of a party. Fighters. Reliable damage dealers. They can use most of the weapons out there, can specialize (more damage!) and are extremely hard for the bad guys to take down. Dont forget fighters are the only onese who get the higher bonus for constitution and strength. (exceptional str!)

Fun Factor - I think it will be alot of fun, as well as educational for the new crew and still easy for the old to get into. Through all its many flaws, it was still a solid and fun system. Heres hoping we get a good game out of it =)