The removal of the MPMB sheet is what prompted my OP. I actually never planned to use the DDB character sheet, just to purchase the books for easy search and access. But when MPMB was nerfed and I tried the DDB sheet, I was so disappointed.
I'll never understand why people like things like that and Forged Anvil. To me, they were incredibly clunky and horrendous to use, not to mention very slow and very ugly looking.
I used, and still use, MPMBs sheet for my players, alongside having their characters here on DDB. For one, I have a player running the revised ranger, and another running a homebrew wizard tradition, neither of which is feasible to accomplish here. Secondly, the beauty of his sheet is the full details of any race, class, or whatever features and abilities on the printed sheets for reference. I fervently hope that the PDF export from here will eventually have all that detail.
That said, I absolutely support WotC for finally taking it down, along with the other illegal sheets and apps. They needed to do it to protect their IP, regardless of money.
I'm confident we'll get there, with the revamp of the character creator & sheet, growing homebrew capabilities and everything else. Patience will pay off in the end.
Okay guys let's get along. I do agree the process should change but I don't just want a sheet. I think it should go like this:
1. Choose Race. 2. Set Ability Scores, on the same screen have a drop down for Race to quickly change Race and see the ability scores change. 3. Choose Background. 4. Choose Class.
The D&D 5th edition Player's Handbook has a very specific order for character building, which was derived from 2 years of feedback from the play test groups.
Select Race.
Select Class.
Determine Ability Scores
Select Background
This might not be the order that everyone prefers (it's not the way I do it personally) but it is the way that works best for the majority of players.
The Curse team have replicated this for the builder experience on D&D Beyond for this reason.
Yes I understand, a lot of folks don't do it that way. BadEye himself has said he doesn't create a character in that order. Maybe have two options for the wizard or have a cutomizable wizard. Yes I'm saying this with no knowledge of the development requirements. These are just thoughts. I do believe BadEye said there would be other character creation options previously.
I don't understand why this is even an issue. In the builder they are all tabs across the top and you can jump around and do them in any order you prefer...
I've heard many people say they like to choose their backgrounds first to prevent overlapping skills, but it doesn't really matter since you can customize those backgrounds and select any two skills you like. The two that are provided are just suggestions.
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I don't understand why this is even an issue. In the builder they are all tabs across the top and you can jump around and do them in any order you prefer...
This ^ Thank you, I thought I was the only one not really getting it... seems like people find it daunting to click on something else than "next"
I am purposely exaggerating here, but I really do not find it so horrible to click on Abilities after you choose the Race, if that's the order you want to do things, instead of having the order hard-coded into the builder. You will end up going back and forth quite a few times anyway, unless I am the only one going back and tweaking this and that until I am completely satisfied (which could be the case, I am not excluding the possibility)
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Born in Italy, moved a bunch, living in Spain, my heart always belonged to Roleplaying Games
I don't understand why this is even an issue. In the builder they are all tabs across the top and you can jump around and do them in any order you prefer...
This ^ Thank you, I thought I was the only one not really getting it... seems like people find it daunting to click on something else than "next"
I am purposely exaggerating here, but I really do not find it so horrible to click on Abilities after you choose the Race, if that's the order you want to do things, instead of having the order hard-coded into the builder. You will end up going back and forth quite a few times anyway, unless I am the only one going back and tweaking this and that until I am completely satisfied (which could be the case, I am not excluding the possibility)
Do I require a change? Of course not, the wizard is perfectly usable now. This doesnt mean I won't share input on ways to make it better.
I don't understand why this is even an issue. In the builder they are all tabs across the top and you can jump around and do them in any order you prefer...
This ^ Thank you, I thought I was the only one not really getting it... seems like people find it daunting to click on something else than "next"
I am purposely exaggerating here, but I really do not find it so horrible to click on Abilities after you choose the Race, if that's the order you want to do things, instead of having the order hard-coded into the builder. You will end up going back and forth quite a few times anyway, unless I am the only one going back and tweaking this and that until I am completely satisfied (which could be the case, I am not excluding the possibility)
Do I require a change? Of course not, the wizard is perfectly usable now. This doesnt mean I won't share input on ways to make it better.
I never said no one should raise their concerns or give suggestion, but there are different ways of doing so. A couple example: - Recognising the system works as it is and propose ways to improve it; - Simply saying what you think the system should be/look like/have;
I am not in any way saying that you comments fall in one or the other category, but I think we can agree on which one is the more productive, constructive, useful and easier to "digest" (unless I am gravely mistaken).
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Born in Italy, moved a bunch, living in Spain, my heart always belonged to Roleplaying Games
I don't understand why this is even an issue. In the builder they are all tabs across the top and you can jump around and do them in any order you prefer...
This ^ Thank you, I thought I was the only one not really getting it... seems like people find it daunting to click on something else than "next"
I am purposely exaggerating here, but I really do not find it so horrible to click on Abilities after you choose the Race, if that's the order you want to do things, instead of having the order hard-coded into the builder. You will end up going back and forth quite a few times anyway, unless I am the only one going back and tweaking this and that until I am completely satisfied (which could be the case, I am not excluding the possibility)
Do I require a change? Of course not, the wizard is perfectly usable now. This doesnt mean I won't share input on ways to make it better.
I never said no one should raise their concerns or give suggestion, but there are different ways of doing so. A couple example: - Recognising the system works as it is and propose ways to improve it; - Simply saying what you think the system should be/look like/have;
I am not in any way saying that you comments fall in one or the other category, but I think we can agree on which one is the more productive, constructive, useful and easier to "digest" (unless I am gravely mistaken).
If my post came across in a counter productive manner I apologise. A lot of times it's a quick post from my phone when I can get away from my kids.
Since we can easily jump between tabs, it would be cool if there was a campaign, or account, bound setting to set the order which each step occurs. Or at least a simple setting to flip the Class Selection with Ability selection. My reasoning behind this is that it would provide two things: a DM running a group of first time D&D players might prefer it; and it would be a temporary fix until the character builder is updated.
I, myself, am perfectly happy with the character builder as it is.
Have there been any preview screenshots of the new character builder?
Honestly, I like the current builder approach. I can make "complete" characters very quickly, but sometimes that's not what's needed/wanted. Now where I can provide constructive criticism. I certainly do NOT follow the flow in linear order. I actually find my self leaving certain area blank/incomplete on purpose and move one to other areas. For example I never pick my variant human ability scores, skills, or feats. I move on. Once I have my background figured out that's when I go back to this section. Similarly, I normally don't assign ability scores until I have to (usually when I'm mulling my multi-class options for characters that are starting higher than 1st level, but even for those 1st level I'm thinking about multi-classing with). Character description I come back to after I have equipment figured out. I'm sure everyone has their own "flow".
I think the following changes may be helpful:
1) Remove numbering from the top (ie 1) Race, 2) Class 3) Abilities, 4) Description, 5) Equipment. Order doesn't "really" matter. I could start a character with a written description then go from there to make everything work.
2) Visually make them look like "tabs", complete all tabs to have a full character.
3) Provide a "complete" "not complete" indicator with each of these tabs. Could simple be green tab for completed, red tab for incomplete (or some iconography as well).
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Want to see Virtual Table Top like no other before it built within DnDBeyond.com? Upvote the feature request. It's 2nd highest voted so far:
NOTE: You will need to setup a zendesk account (which is not your DnDBeyond.com account, the team uses this 3rd party software). It's easy to do and your votes are needed!
I agree it would be nice to have a single-page option. I have a party that's currently playing on paper character sheets, using the pre-generated characters. I don't even know what options to choose in the current system to recreate those characters in D&DB.
For those of you interested in a simple sheet, and who haven't already seen it, there is a selection of form-fillable PDF sheets from the official WotC D&D web site. They won't auto-calculate anything, but at least you can copy and paste from D&D Beyond into the sheet. The download is a ZIP file that contains the basic sheet, 3 page sheet, and some alternate sheets.
"Orcs are savage raiders and pillagers with stooped postures, low foreheads, and piggish faces with prominent lower canines that resemble tusks." MM p245 (original printing) You don't OWN your books on DDB: WotC can change them any time. What do you think will happen when OneD&D comes out?
For those of you interested in a simple sheet, and who haven't already seen it, there is a selection of form-fillable PDF sheets from the official WotC D&D web site. They won't auto-calculate anything, but at least you can copy and paste from D&D Beyond into the sheet. The download is a ZIP file that contains the basic sheet, 3 page sheet, and some alternate sheets.
Okay guys let's get along. I do agree the process should change but I don't just want a sheet. I think it should go like this:
1. Choose Race. 2. Set Ability Scores, on the same screen have a drop down for Race to quickly change Race and see the ability scores change. 3. Choose Background. 4. Choose Class.
The D&D 5th edition Player's Handbook has a very specific order for character building, which was derived from 2 years of feedback from the play test groups.
Select Race.
Select Class.
Determine Ability Scores
Select Background
This might not be the order that everyone prefers (it's not the way I do it personally) but it is the way that works best for the majority of players.
The Curse team have replicated this for the builder experience on D&D Beyond for this reason.
That and you can just jump around to whatever tab you want. It's not like you're forced to do it that way and can't go back to make changes.
I posted the link because some people don't want to use the builder with tabs, having to jump back and forth. Some people just want to fill out a single PDF sheet. That's what the OP wants, that's what others of us would like. One page. No tabs. No "builder".
And, no, I'm not saying they would scrap the builder, NO ONE is saying that. Some of us are asking for a single sheet to fill out as an alternative to the builder.
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"Orcs are savage raiders and pillagers with stooped postures, low foreheads, and piggish faces with prominent lower canines that resemble tusks." MM p245 (original printing) You don't OWN your books on DDB: WotC can change them any time. What do you think will happen when OneD&D comes out?
For those of you interested in a simple sheet, and who haven't already seen it, there is a selection of form-fillable PDF sheets from the official WotC D&D web site. They won't auto-calculate anything, but at least you can copy and paste from D&D Beyond into the sheet. The download is a ZIP file that contains the basic sheet, 3 page sheet, and some alternate sheets.
For those of you interested in a simple sheet, and who haven't already seen it, there is a selection of form-fillable PDF sheets from the official WotC D&D web site. They won't auto-calculate anything, but at least you can copy and paste from D&D Beyond into the sheet. The download is a ZIP file that contains the basic sheet, 3 page sheet, and some alternate sheets.
Wouldn't it be easier to just create the character here on DDB, export it and copy paste what you feel is missing?
The DDB export is a form fillable sheet anyway, so I fail.to see the difference/benefit
The DDB export IS the form fillable PDF from the Wizards D&D site (just the D&D graphic at the top has changed).
It's the standard sheet available for download - Character Sheet - Form Fillable.pdf
I understand that DDB exports a PDF. What we are asking form is a single sheet page to fill out rather than a builder where we hop back and forth.
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"Orcs are savage raiders and pillagers with stooped postures, low foreheads, and piggish faces with prominent lower canines that resemble tusks." MM p245 (original printing) You don't OWN your books on DDB: WotC can change them any time. What do you think will happen when OneD&D comes out?
I don't understand why this is even an issue. In the builder they are all tabs across the top and you can jump around and do them in any order you prefer...
Because it's a lousy experience for any scenario other than walking through the initial creation of the character, and even then, it's terrible for seeing how your changes will effect your character.
I was tweaking my Clr1/Wiz2 last night. I was working with my GM to make some modifications because he just wasn't that fun the first couple of sessions. Things I was doing:
Looking at swapping out the Life domain
Modifying the race
Modifying ability scores
Leveling up to 4 - did I want a Cleric or a Wizard, wasn't sure
Redoing the spell list
All of this, which is legal under normal Adventurer's League rules as well, was very annoying and slow with the builder approach. Also, trying to figure out where a particular proficiency came from requires clicking through all of them and expanding out the "proficiencies" for each tab.
The character sheet re-design screenshots at least addresses the layout of the sheet, but I'm really hoping it doesn't force the builder wizard.
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I used, and still use, MPMBs sheet for my players, alongside having their characters here on DDB. For one, I have a player running the revised ranger, and another running a homebrew wizard tradition, neither of which is feasible to accomplish here. Secondly, the beauty of his sheet is the full details of any race, class, or whatever features and abilities on the printed sheets for reference. I fervently hope that the PDF export from here will eventually have all that detail.
That said, I absolutely support WotC for finally taking it down, along with the other illegal sheets and apps. They needed to do it to protect their IP, regardless of money.
I'm confident we'll get there, with the revamp of the character creator & sheet, growing homebrew capabilities and everything else. Patience will pay off in the end.
I don't understand why this is even an issue. In the builder they are all tabs across the top and you can jump around and do them in any order you prefer...
I've heard many people say they like to choose their backgrounds first to prevent overlapping skills, but it doesn't really matter since you can customize those backgrounds and select any two skills you like. The two that are provided are just suggestions.
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Thank you, I thought I was the only one not really getting it... seems like people find it daunting to click on something else than "next"
Born in Italy, moved a bunch, living in Spain, my heart always belonged to Roleplaying Games
A couple example:
- Recognising the system works as it is and propose ways to improve it;
- Simply saying what you think the system should be/look like/have;
Born in Italy, moved a bunch, living in Spain, my heart always belonged to Roleplaying Games
Since we can easily jump between tabs, it would be cool if there was a campaign, or account, bound setting to set the order which each step occurs. Or at least a simple setting to flip the Class Selection with Ability selection. My reasoning behind this is that it would provide two things: a DM running a group of first time D&D players might prefer it; and it would be a temporary fix until the character builder is updated.
I, myself, am perfectly happy with the character builder as it is.
Have there been any preview screenshots of the new character builder?
Honestly, I like the current builder approach. I can make "complete" characters very quickly, but sometimes that's not what's needed/wanted. Now where I can provide constructive criticism. I certainly do NOT follow the flow in linear order. I actually find my self leaving certain area blank/incomplete on purpose and move one to other areas. For example I never pick my variant human ability scores, skills, or feats. I move on. Once I have my background figured out that's when I go back to this section. Similarly, I normally don't assign ability scores until I have to (usually when I'm mulling my multi-class options for characters that are starting higher than 1st level, but even for those 1st level I'm thinking about multi-classing with). Character description I come back to after I have equipment figured out. I'm sure everyone has their own "flow".
I think the following changes may be helpful:
1) Remove numbering from the top (ie 1) Race, 2) Class 3) Abilities, 4) Description, 5) Equipment. Order doesn't "really" matter. I could start a character with a written description then go from there to make everything work.
2) Visually make them look like "tabs", complete all tabs to have a full character.
3) Provide a "complete" "not complete" indicator with each of these tabs. Could simple be green tab for completed, red tab for incomplete (or some iconography as well).
Want to see Virtual Table Top like no other before it built within DnDBeyond.com? Upvote the feature request. It's 2nd highest voted so far:
https://dndbeyond.zendesk.com/hc/en-us/community/posts/115008597088-Virtual-Tabletop-Gameboard
NOTE: You will need to setup a zendesk account (which is not your DnDBeyond.com account, the team uses this 3rd party software). It's easy to do and your votes are needed!
I agree it would be nice to have a single-page option. I have a party that's currently playing on paper character sheets, using the pre-generated characters. I don't even know what options to choose in the current system to recreate those characters in D&DB.
For those of you interested in a simple sheet, and who haven't already seen it, there is a selection of form-fillable PDF sheets from the official WotC D&D web site. They won't auto-calculate anything, but at least you can copy and paste from D&D Beyond into the sheet. The download is a ZIP file that contains the basic sheet, 3 page sheet, and some alternate sheets.
http://dnd.wizards.com/articles/features/character_sheets
"Orcs are savage raiders and pillagers with stooped postures, low foreheads, and piggish faces with prominent lower canines that resemble tusks." MM p245 (original printing)
You don't OWN your books on DDB: WotC can change them any time. What do you think will happen when OneD&D comes out?
You can already export the DDB character onto a PDF though. That's not what they want.
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Born in Italy, moved a bunch, living in Spain, my heart always belonged to Roleplaying Games
I posted the link because some people don't want to use the builder with tabs, having to jump back and forth. Some people just want to fill out a single PDF sheet. That's what the OP wants, that's what others of us would like. One page. No tabs. No "builder".
And, no, I'm not saying they would scrap the builder, NO ONE is saying that. Some of us are asking for a single sheet to fill out as an alternative to the builder.
"Orcs are savage raiders and pillagers with stooped postures, low foreheads, and piggish faces with prominent lower canines that resemble tusks." MM p245 (original printing)
You don't OWN your books on DDB: WotC can change them any time. What do you think will happen when OneD&D comes out?
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"Orcs are savage raiders and pillagers with stooped postures, low foreheads, and piggish faces with prominent lower canines that resemble tusks." MM p245 (original printing)
You don't OWN your books on DDB: WotC can change them any time. What do you think will happen when OneD&D comes out?
All of this, which is legal under normal Adventurer's League rules as well, was very annoying and slow with the builder approach. Also, trying to figure out where a particular proficiency came from requires clicking through all of them and expanding out the "proficiencies" for each tab.
The character sheet re-design screenshots at least addresses the layout of the sheet, but I'm really hoping it doesn't force the builder wizard.