I played Basic/Expert D&D and 1st edition AD&D back in the 80s.  I jhave recently begun playing some basic D&D with my 7 yo son.  I have never really looked at 3rd edition until recently and I must say that I am surprized at the critism I have heard about 3rd edition.  Looking at just the core rules 3rd edition doesn't really look all that much different than previous editions.  Yes it is somewhat different but no as much as I expected considering all the old-school hatred of that edition.

3rd edition does add some tactical combat complexity (e.g. AoO and flanking) that earlier editions didn't have, but it seems that those rules can be easily ignored if you don't like them (we definitely ignored plenty of 1st edition rules in the 80s).

IMO 3rd edition streamlines and simplifies many aspects of basic game play that enhances the game.  For example,

1) AC is now the number you need to hit someone.  Much simpiler then referencing a table or using THAC0 (and no THAC0 isn't that hard --  the 3rd edition system is just better IMO).

2) Unifying things like non-weapon proficiencies and thieves skills into a single system.

3) Streamlining saving throws.


3rd edition also added some new elements to the game that I think improves the game.  For example,

1) Feats - Special powers have always been part of 1st edition (e.g. quivering palm) so I don't see what the big deal is about feats.  Looking through a list of feats in the core rules I really don't see anything that crazy compared to special abilities in 1st and 2nd editions.

2) Multiclassing - I think the 3rd edition system is simple and makes alot of since.  As a DM I may want to limit it somewhat but the system itself is pretty soild IMO.


I can understand continuing to play 1st or 2nd edition if that is what you have been playing for 20 or 30 years and you don't see a reaon to change, but why do hate 3rd edition (if you do)?Â

Disclaimer: I don't want an edition war.  I am just curious as to what people find objectionable about 3rd edition.

The only major issue I have with 3e is that DM prep time can be daunting. Creating stat blocks for higher level NPCs takes some time and can take a very long time in some cases.

Unlike many of those who came to really dislike 3e, I have no other issues with the system. However, I will concede that it's a system that is easier to play then DM. That's something of a generalization, but I believe it to be mostly true.