This optional rule allows players to select more than one class for their character at character creation. This is a significant departure from the standard rules, so the ramifications of using this optional rule should be considered very carefully:
▶ Allowing multiple classes to be chosen greatly increases the complexity of the character creation process.
▶ Single-classed characters tend to be overwhelmed by characters with multiple classes who can do everything they can and more. Single-classed characters advance more quickly, but the exponential nature of the class XP tables means that they are rarely more than one level ahead.
▶ In the traditional Advanced rules, only demihumans were allowed to choose multiple classes and then only in specific combinations. The referee may consider creating combinations of allowed classes, emphasising the different cultures of the various demihuman races.
A character may be of up to three classes, which are selected at character creation.
The character has a separately tracked count of experience points per class. When earning XP, the total earned is split evenly between the per-class XP counts.
The character’s prime requisite XP adjustment (see Ability Scores) is calculated separately for each class, based on the prime requisite(s) of the class. The per-class adjustment only applies to XP added to that class’ XP count.
The character has a separately tracked experience level per class. When the character has gained enough XP in one of their classes, that class increases in level.
When determining hit points at character creation or upon gaining a level, any hit points gained are divided by the number of classes. Fractions are tracked and may add up to a whole number later on.
For example, a fighter/thief character gains a thief level and the player rolls 1d4 for hit points. The result is a 3, meaning that the character gains 1½ hit points.
Upon gaining a fighter level, the player rolls 1d8 for hit points. The result is a 5, meaning that the character gains 2½ hit points. The half hit points gained for the thief and fighter levels add up to a whole hit point.
The character uses the best saving throw value in each category and the best THAC0 value of all of their classes.
The character may use the best armour options allowed to any of their classes.
The character may use the best weapon options allowed to any of their classes.
The character may use the magical abilities of each class without restriction.
Class abilities such as hide in shadows or move silently may only be used when wearing armour that is allowed to the class that grants the ability.