Random vs. Non-Random Starting Wealth (1 Viewer)

[talysman]

Something occurred to me: I've seen several arguments about random attributes, with strong emotions both in favor and against. But I've never seen an argument about random wealth. 4e has fixed starting wealth (100 coins); older editions usually have 3d6 x 10 coins. Is there a sharp divide? Would some people hate it if they only had 30 gp and another player randomly rolled 180 gp? Is it a sticking point?

This poll is just meant to check if there really is a distinction between the way "old school" and "new school" players like to set starting wealth. For the purposes of this poll, the definition of old/new school is irrelevant; all that matters is whether you consider yourself one or the other. However, let's make a few assumptions:

• In general, if you have no preference on either the old/new school split or the random/non-random split, pick the one you play more often.
• People who identify as "old school" are making a statement that they don't like/don't play newer games, for whatever reason and however they define "newer"; so, if you play both types of games equal amounts and have no preference, you're "new school".

"Random wealth" means neither the player nor the GM has any control over who gets how much; it includes completely random starting wealth as well as random + guaranteed items. "Non-random wealth" means either everyone gets the exact same thing, or what you get depends on what choices you make, like always getting one weapon or tool appropriate for your background.

 

[Asmodai]

Definitely non-random. Being an archer and never getting a bow for your first 30 sessions sucks.

 

[The Wyzard]

Trying to get by with a torch and a dagger up until your first big score, in earlier editions, is kind of hilarious and part of the fun.

In 4E, many characters are basically screwed without enough money to buy an appropriate armor type.

 

[Vargo Teras]

I like the chargen minigame. I don't like losing the chargen minigame due to bad rolls. The same reason I don't like random stat rolls, I don't like random wealth rolls.

 

[Julius Sleazer]

I like randomized starting wealth. I also like B/X D&D, so I'm already a fan of random chargen, and furthermore equipment is actually pretty cheap in B/X compared to later editions, even AD&D.

It's not outside the realm of possibility for a starting 1st-level fighter to begin with plate, a decent weapon, basic adventuring gear, and a mule to haul away loot from the dungeon.

As Wyzard said upthread, it's also kind of fun to play a dude who starts with a waterskin, a shield, a dagger, and fifty feet of rope from time to time.

Moreover, just as the stat rolls affect choice of what class to play, so do the wealth rolls. Generally a high wealth roll will incline me towards fighter, elf, or cleric, since I can get good armor. A low wealth roll might point me towards a thief or a magic-user, since they don't have to worry about spending big bucks on sweet armor.

EDIT: I voted that I consider myself "old school." Please understand this to mean that I like old-school D&D. I'm not old enough to be old-school.

 

[Iny]

I believe that "new school" games are best suited to non-random starting wealth, and that "old school" games are best suited to a more randomized option.

 

[Tequila Sunrise]

Set wealth for everyone.

I find it amusing that a lot of people like "random" chargen, but few gamers ever suggests randomizing other character aspects like race, class, skill points/profs, feats, or level. (Because realistically, what are the chances that several people of the same exact experience level meet and decide to adventure together?) "Random" chargen is in fact very selective.

 

[medivh]

I consider myself old school and whether or not I prefer starting wealth is seriously affected by what game I play.

 

[Julius Sleazer]

(Because realistically, what are the chances that several people of the same exact experience level meet and decide to adventure together?)

Please note that in a game about throwing fireballs at orcs and taking their stuff, "realism" isn't high on my list of priorities.

 

[tartex]

I am new school, like random character generation, but not random wealth. Funny me.

At least I'd hate non-random character generation with random wealth. I am fine with it, if everything is random.