Character Generation

[Ishtar]

Another T20 question, if you please, from a prospective ref who has the Player's Handbook but never seen d20 system in action--
What is, exactly, a 'core' class? Specifically, if you take a character who is 18yrs old and stick her in a service (like you would in CT generation), you won't get the (4+int mod)* 4 starting skills that many core classes have. You'll get a lot less. Does this mean that you are (strongly) encouraged to pick a core class first, then send the PC to University or the service or whatever, so you get the xtra points?
Thanx
Courtney

 

[lightsenshi]

A core class is what a character can advance in during play. A service class is only available during prior history unless the GM specifies differently.

 

[tjoneslo]

Originally posted by Empress Nicholle:
What is, exactly, a 'core' class? Specifically, if you take a character who is 18yrs old and stick her in a service (like you would in CT generation), you won't get the (4+int mod)* 4 starting skills that many core classes have. You'll get a lot less. Does this mean that you are (strongly) encouraged to pick a core class first, then send the PC to University or the service or whatever, so you get the xtra points?
Thanx
Courtney

If you wish to start a character into a service class, the implication is you will then run them through the same prior history. I believe there is errata that the service classes do get the 4* inital skills. So there is no difference between a service class and a core class in that regard.

The real difference comes later, after you go through the prior history system. As characters go up levels during their adventuring they may not take levels in their service classes (only the core classes), unless they meet the requirements as described in the service class.

 

[MichaelL65]

Originally posted by tjoneslo:
The real difference comes later, after you go through the prior history system. As characters go up levels during their adventuring they may not take levels in their service classes (only the core classes), unless they meet the requirements as described in the service class.

The exception is the Scout class. Depending on your GM, you may be able to advance your Scout levels beyond your service (if he/she is reactivated, the rules definitely allow advancement). The reason for this is you never really leave the Scout service, you just enter the reserves.