Post originally by Drunkenewok at 2003-04-22 11:49:48
Converted from Phorums BB System

Actually, the bell curve is a useful reference for the simple reason that a wide variety of natural phenomena match this distribution. Extreme results are far less common than average results.

Not having actually read the rule book in question, I can't really comment definitively on the aptness of the mechanic, but in general, with a flat distribution, you place more of the responsibility for variability with the DM/GM. It becomes more an application of adding appropriate modifiers to a selected task, rather than simply letting chance take its course. This is perfectly fine if the DM/GM is experienced and capable at assigning appropriate modifiers, but makes it more difficult for beginners unfamiliar with the system.

As a counterpoint to the argument that 5 and 16 are equally probable, so are any contrasting pair in the bell curve (3 and 18, 4 and 17, etc.) The interesting fact about the bell curve is that you are six times as likely to get a 5 (or a 16) as you are to get a 1 (or an 18).