The news from GenCon of 4e D&D garnered a myriad of reactions from the group, ranging from the cynical to the optimistic. The amount of new info coming out of WotC over the last few weeks has certainly allayed some fears and also provoked some interesting discussion at our table. Many of the items being addressed in 4e turned out to be issues in our game that we had not really acknowledged.

The Sweet Spot

In the initial GenCon presentation the D&D Developers talked about the “sweet spot” of levels 7-14, and how that is where the game appears to be the most fun. Like a lot of groups, I have played many characters less than 7, but few higher than 14. Until the last 2 campaigns (1 2), I had never DMd or played above level 14 with version 3.5, and any characters I took above that level in AD&D were suspect due to my tender years at the time (Monty Haul ftw!). Now that I have had that experienced life above the “sweet spot” from both sides of the screen I can see many of the issues.

As a DM it can be hard to balance an encounter with PCs that tough, with a particular problem being that we have 6 players and possible NPCs/Cohorts as well. The core 3.5 game seems to balanced around the traditional D&D party of 4, and a group half again that size (or bigger) makes it difficult to present a challenge that the PCs wont wipe out in one round and won’t be a nightmare to DM.

As a player of a high level cleric, I find myself more focused on the buffing of the group than engaging in the “battle priest” concept with which I started. With all the cool spells now available to me (thank you Spell Compendium!), I have to fight back my urges to “SMITE!” as I know my power is better used taking care of the party. At lower levels I did not have this conflict as after 1 buff spell (generally) to start a battle I was of great use wading into the thick of it. I still have fun but I certainly feel more pushed towards the “buff/heal bot” role due to the power I have available. I think this is part of what has had me churning on new character concepts recently, but that is another blog.

I am very interested to see what comes in 4e to address this “sweet spot” issue. All of the tidbits leaked so far are promising, I look forward to seeing the integrated whole.

Like all gaming groups we have made modifications to the rules to fit our playstyle. These house rules, many of which are actually playstyle guidelines and not rules, are now available for your perusal.

House Rules

Sorry about the long hiatus, the blame rests solely with me. Now we have worked out a system when some of the others in the game can do updates so I’m not solely responsible for slacking.

The current campaign is in full swing. Kelly is the DM and we are on a holy quest for St. Cuthbert. We must find the pieces of an ancient sword whose power could be harnessed for good or evil. Obviously we’d prefer Evil not to win.

Pictures can be found in the gallery. I am calling the current campaign “The Will of the Saint” until Kelly gives me a different title.