We have got pretty attached to the Five-Level system that Ron created a few years back. But, I believe it needs a simple revision that will actually make it easier to formulate different gaminig tools. The original levels were categorized as Novice (lvl 1), Trained (lvl 2), Skilled (lvl 3), Expert (lvl 4), and Master (lvl 5). This seems simple when we keep it at this level, but I have always had a problem with the way we convert each level to a die (i.e. 1=d4, 2=d6, 3=d8, etc.) I propose that we add a level beneath Novice (possibly Inept or Unskilled). This new category becomes level 1, thus increasing the previous levels by one (Novice = lvl 2; Trained = lvl 3; etc.) What this does is allow for easier conversions that can be taught more easily to newbies to RPG. A dice conversion is simply twice the level (lvl 3 = d6, lvl 6 = d12, etc.)
Level three would still be the average skill level, but now it will be Trained and be represented by a d6. This allows for more improvements during gameplay. The d4 represents a skill or attribute that is slightly below average. The new category is represented by a d2 (odd or even); this skill level is definitely below average, almost impaired.
I am willing to bet that if we start to use these conversions we will find less complexities and will begin to come to more agreements.
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Another thought I had regarding the Five-Level system involves the attributes. I believe the attribute range should better represent the die that is associated with its level. Right now, most of us use a 1-5 to represent each attribute. This seriously hinders variability between characters; and, makes it hard to communicate its worth as a particular die (d4, d6, etc.) . The attributes should have the range of 1-12. This way they are directly related to the die that is used. Thus, eliminating a conversion for most cases.
An attribute of 1,2,3,11,and 12 should all be rare; while, 6 and 7 should be the most common. Odd numbers are the only ones that would need conversion. Simply always round down. Some gaming tools might require adding two attributes. If both are odd, you will find that they will provide an slight advantage.
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