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Originally Posted by tbone
I'm not saying that that's not the case... but in the big picture, DFRPG isn't doing anything different with roles than what other fantasy RPGs do and have always done.
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For every edition of D&D except for D&D 4th edition, DF RPG play at much higher power level with a broad ranges of choices both for combat and non-combat encounters. It a result of the focus on 250 points.
Even at 125 to 150 pts GURPS character function a lot like D&D 5th level characters in terms of capabilities except again for D&D 4th edition.
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Originally Posted by tbone
So the question arguably becomes: Did 70s-era D&D begin – consciously or not – as a fantasy skin over a superhero-like base?
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No, the numbers and treasure distribution of OD&D don't support this. That and the primary documentation available that the Blackmoor and Greyhawk were more heroic than superheroic. Although there was plenty of gonzo and anachronistic elements as well.
However liberalize the treasure distribution along with using high stats modifiers from the Greyhawk supplement then the ability of the PCs to deal high amounts of damage often is enhanced. Making it feel more like superheroics.
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Originally Posted by tbone
(Me, I've never really thought about the superhero genre as a meaningful input into the creation of fantasy RPGs. But it's certainly interesting to look at how the genres of fantasy and superheroes turned out, and make comparisons.)
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The demand for more options in part lead to AD&D which in part was a compliation of the rules released in the D&D supplement, Strategic Review, and Dragon Magazine. This lead to an inflation of all character classes to being able to attack more often and do more damage in more diverse ways.
For a full analysis of the inspiration of OD&D and it early development I suggest Jon Peterson's Playing at the World which delves into it in exhaustive detail supported by primary sources.
https://www.amazon.com/Playing-at-Wo.../dp/0615642047
OD&D itself was firmly heroic not superheroic in it's treatment of the genre. Even name level character (9th +) could be taken out by the monster due to the low number of hit points and lack of high bonuses (except through magic items).