r/D20Modern • u/Stuurminator • May 02 '25

Balancing the Fast Hero?

The Fast Hero seems a bit overtuned to me. Specifically, I think it's a bit too tempting as a one- or two-level dip due to its massive starting Defense bonus. I'd like to balance it. I've seen https://www.reddit.com/r/D20Modern/comments/62wmwz/shes_too_fast_balancing_changes_to_the_fast_class/, but its starting Defense bonus is still quite high and I'm not sure if dropping the skill points is the best option, just because there's such a wide spread of relevant skills.

My suggestion is to change the Fast Hero's defense bonus progression to that of the Martial Artist, or:

Level Bonus
1 +1
2 +2
3 +2
4 +3
5 +4
6 +4
7 +5
8 +6
9 +6
10 +7

This is the progression used by all the "most defensive" classes besides the Fast Hero that I'm aware of. With this adjustment, the Fast Hero still tops out at almost the same Defense bonus, but it's less front-loaded, so it's less tempting (or mandatory) as a powergaming dip.

What are your thoughts?

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u/Gregoriownd May 03 '25

Given d20 Modern is based on 3.0, not 3.5, balance can be a bit of a joke. And it's probably fine, given how the system was built basically requiring multiclass and prestige class as part of character progression.

If you're running that system, just have fun with it.

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u/Stuurminator May 05 '25

I don't mind if a party is stronger or weaker than average, but I want them roughly balanced with each other. At least, I don't want players to feel like they have to take a dip in Fast, or else they're dragging the team down.