> Jeff wrote:
>
> >> Hmm, made me wonder whether an alternative way of assigning
> >> numbers to abilities would be to assign a "pool" of points...
>
> > Its possible by putting it at the 'optional' level of having them
> > at whatever level up to the keyword, the player feels is right for
> > the character. Not all Elmali are Steadfast, not all Orlanthi are
> > Generous...
>
> Despite the subject headers on this thread, I think you're replying
> to a general suggestion (assigning numbers to all abilities via a
CoC-
> style "pool") with an answer that applies to Virtues, mainly or
only.
> I don't think you've addressed the suggestion that was being made.
>
> Cheers, Nick
Perhaps. I'm noting that virtues and personality traits are optional.
I'm very leery of letting players play 'over/under/point-total' games.
When we tried it last year (though with a +/- 4) the characters were
HORRIBLY min-maxed. I went back to the template & keyword method after
that. Maybe a more moderate +2/-2 for a FEW of those would work. And
they have to be of 'equivalent' costs. Affinity for Affinity, and
ability within the same keyword. I'd object to a 'pay three abilities
at -2 to get a +2 affinity. It reflects concentraion of experience
WITHIN the keyword (which is, afterall, a job).
Jeff