Hyborian Commoner

[rabindranath72]

With a 10 level class, the standard commoner is already quite though in my experience. And unrealistically so, I would add. I never allow more than 2nd or 3rd level commoners in my games. Anything beyond that really stretches verisimilitude.

 

[Constantine XI]

Say what you like (or dislike...) about 4E, but the concept of minions is, in my experience, perfect for encapsulating those faceless NPCs whose fortunes lack the benefit of plot immunity. The philosophy that PCs and NPCs are not created equal is also a good one, and I for one welcome the freedom to devote my preparation time to issues which, in my judgement, will further the story. I guess that's just a reflection of how time-poor I've become.

 

[rabindranath72]

Don't stop at the averages, consider the full spectrum of attainable hit points.
The Dock Worker might have Con 18, max hit points per level, and perhaps the Toughness feat. So, an "expert" dock worker (2nd level) might have a whopping 16hps, and if you add the Toughness feat, they become 18hps.
The Scholar will likely invest in attributes other than Con, and will probably choose a different feat.
By the same token, a kid might be only 1st level, with 1 hp.

And this works according to the rules.

 

[Constantine XI]

You know, there's a reason they're called "commoners"... Seriously, if you want them to be proud and dignified, play them that way. I fail to see how their hit points reflects character.

On one hand you seem to want to create these NPCs by the book, but insist on using average hit points per level, while on the other hand your solution is to houserule the hit die type. I don't quite understand your position. The way I see it you could use the canon of the rules to create what you are trying to achieve, or you could just handwave the whole thing. either way is perfectly acceptable. My preference would be to get on with the game. Now if only i could convince my players...

 

[rabindranath72]

I know the world is not perfect in game or RL, so these humble, weaker types will exsist, just seems to me, the whole of the Civilsed world would be 95% Commoners, not much of a force against Tribes of Barbarians!

Exactly. Even a 1st level barbarian should be a terrible adversary for a Commoner of any level. If the 1st level Commoner now is able to stand head to head with a barbarian, you are simply making the PC classes cheap.

Finally, who's to say that the worth of an NPC is measured in hit points? You might have a 1st level commoner with 1hp, but who has a very high intelligence score, a craft or profession skill and a matching Skill Focus, and be a very important and useful NPC in his own right without being a combatant. The "flavour" of the Hyborian Age you refer to is definitely not in hit points.

Anyway, good luck with your tinkering!