Dungeons and Dragons: 4th Edition

[Domhnall]

Originally Posted by Thelaird

I personally, don't think it's better or worse than 3.5e. It has many things I like more, and many things I don't like. But that's how it was as 3.5e. My group decided to go with it, just because it'd feel right to follow the evolution of D&D. None of us were expecting a better time, we were expecting something different.

Also, I brought along Domhnall who hasn't played D&D ever, only ever had chances to read the rules, and he had a much easier time learning 4e than anyone I've ever seen try to learn 3.5e. I'd say they succeeded in what they wanted to do with the game. Overall, I like it, but there's always going to be a spot in my heart for 3.0. It's what I learned D&D on, so I can't help but think back to those days. :P

It is extremely easy to pick up, and I think that's the main reason Wizards made it the way they did. Attempting to get the MMORPG crowd, some of whom might have found 3.5 too complicated, into the fold. Like he said, I never played anything before 4.0 but I did frequently read the books and lurked daily around message boards and forums that discussed 3.5 (and often 2.0). Granted, never having played 3.5 my word is worth a little less, but it did seem extremely complicated. Here's the biggest thing, though; from what I saw, it was extremely easy to gimp yourself (and only slightly harder to make an impossibly broken character) from the multiclassing aspect.

In my time around the message boards I've only seen 1 "broken" character from 4.0 (I'm not telling you how to make it, if you're that determined you can find it somewhere on the internet). While I was disappointed that I could no longer be a Ranger 10/Bard 5/Druid 5 or any such build, I was at least comforted by the fact that I'll not create a character that's utterly useless in combat.

So, take that how you will. Definitely simpler, but with the simplicity comes the assurance that your character won't suck.

[liffi]

the only way to go is ad&d. good old ad&d. I am sucker for the oldies.

[Jeeves]

mostly going pick up the books I really don't play I use too. Just really get bored at work and need something to read.

[Unknown Soldier]

They streamlined the thief skill sets, so much easier now, and stops anyone from becoming an uber god of a skill.

[Ghost Lee]

Nah, I'm not liking the 4th edition of D&D. Just the fact that they made the game base around more around miniatures then ever. I prefer the use of my imagination of game, rather then staring at a little figure. Not too mention no multiclass. I like fact that I was able to be multiple things in the game. The book itself feels more like "let's make something quick for more money", rather then making something for the players them self's. G.G. Wizard!

[Manijin]

I for one LOVE the 4th Edition books, and this is coming from someone who loved 3.5.

Why?

Sure, 4th Edition isn't as sensible as 3.5, and it definitely has a more video game feel to it, but the battles are EASIER. I've saved HOURS of time by using 4.0, and as a DM the Monster Manual makes my job even easier. Sure, the uber-classes /templates are gone, but, imho, the increased pace of battles, etc., make it worthwhile.

Now, I did love 3.5. But it became FAR too easy to break characters. I mean, FAR too easy. With 4.0, it's much harder, and the fact that every class is distinctly useful is a huge bonus.