DaloLorn wrote: ↑Thu Nov 17, 2022 11:55 am
A lot of my builds evoke reactions similar to what Renshouj mentioned below: "Why are you doing this to yourself?"
That said, I generally tend to powerbuild within the confines of my concepts, as a deliberate counterbalance to the fact that my concepts tend to require mechanically terrible decisions. It still comes out markedly worse than an unrestricted powerbuild (see some of Izzul )
Please dont tag me on this, i never claim to be neither powerbuilder nor encourage/advertise false powerbuild to anyone else thank you.
though i can admit that i like to build something that has RP skills like max 'sense motive' vs others 'bluff', while able to handle the content decently.
All of my builds are power builds. I might not be best at them, but I do like the challenge of making it work. That being said, I still keep to RP restrictions and pick classes that fit the theme I'm going for.
Character concept always comes first, everything else follows after. Build my character based on RP idea. Is it able to solo everything on the server? No. Is it fun to play? Yes.
Zar'shalee Tor'viir - Matron mother of house Tor'viir, Sol d'Lolth
You can absolutely solo the majority of content on the server with a middle of the road build. On top of which, if you actually have a group to run with you could probably do everything while using a level 30 commoner. I would advise against intentionally gimping yourself but building around RP concept over raw power will probably provide a more satisfying gaming experience in the long run.
I think I am in the majority of people on the server with the way I build. I get my character concept, and figure out backstory and RP. I then look to see what feats and skills I need to fit that concept.
After I've made the toon fit the concept, I look at what I have left over and try and build the strongest character I can. So for me, I try to build strong characters, but always with the RP first.
RP builds and power builds, despite what some people say, are a dichotomy. Yes, you can power build and RP. But when speaking of "powerbuild v RP build", what is really being asked is, "When you plan your concept, do you focus on RP or on the build?" Since both literally cannot be the number 1 priority, it is in fact a dichotomy. Some build with RP in mind first, and others build and then select RP that fits.
Is it wrong to do one or the other? Absolutely not. Play whatever/however you enjoy. But on either side there are "elitests". There are RP elitests who think that just because someone powerbuilds, they are bad RPers. On the other side, you have those who claim that they can powerbuild and be just as focused on RP. Both are equally false. Wherever your focus is, that is going to shine. Powerbuilding is not a "wrong way" to play. But on the other hand, you cannot have two number one priorities. One will take precedence.
"Now this is the law of the jungle, as old and as true as the sky,
And the wolf that shall keep it may prosper, but the wolf that shall break it must die."
- Rudyard Kipling
